2020 KTM 500 EXCF Ultimate Light ADV Build

[@CoolEyeColorado]

I have the exc-f and love it. Hard enduro and also in the road. Most people don’t realize how light the EXC-f is.

[@lbeck119]

Absolutely love the total Black orange look!!!👊👊👊

[@TACOMOTOCO]

It’s super strong right!

[@jasoncaribou9530]

Great video and thanks for the offer to call for help with my new 500exc, excellent stuff, ❤ Canada

[@alexmoxley3462]

just got a 2023 500 excf two days ago and today I ordered some things such as molecule skid plate, tidy tail light kit and flex plate mount, aecerbis upper frame guards and trailing arm guards thanks to your detailed list. Im new into the enduro scene and this video was really helpful and informative on how to build my bike and keep it protected from the abuse its going to be taking as I progress in my riding skills👍

[@grommit327]

Really looking forward to you releasing the rear integrated light. I have a 2020 500 and have been struggling with what to do about the factory "mess" back there

[@Thumper07476]

I love how you break all the upgrades down and debunk all the bull that is said about other upgrades that go against what you actually need to accomplish !

[@stevenjewell6550]

Great build Mike and added to my parts to get list!

[@chazman4461]

Can you do an up to date review on how you like the recluse clutch and some of the other upgrades? I really want that clutch and I am currently doing some of the other upgrades since I am injured and can not ride.

[@ScottReznicek]

I really appreciate these walk around vids. I have the same bike and am modeling it after this one.

[@gypsymanjeff2184]

Ok have to say..this IS ..the 1st Time ever I've seen it all done at 1 x..cant imagine the cost but know it had to of been .. OUTRAGEOUS..just amazing build but ..who besides some Amazon or high tech CO from Seattle could ever afford doing this.maybe if they took right & left nuts ..i could have one

[@TACOMOTOCO]

Some guys know how to live and live well😎

[@kimojon9665]

That's awesome! Nice work there TACO MOTO CO

[@TACOMOTOCO]

Thanks mate!

[@keshmo12]

That's a sweet build. I just picked up a 500 mile crf450l with $5k in parts on it. Looked at ktms but they wanted way too much and I've always been a honda guy. Never got why people put huge bags on Enduros. But I ride pretty extreme single track here in the PNW. The most important thing I found is that you gotta balance your wheels lol. Previous owner put Tubliss and never balanced tires so it was horrible at 55 mph.

[@TACOMOTOCO]

Sounds like you got a rad set up there amigo! Braaaaaaap🤘🏽

[@Cycle9568]

For an ADV bike you should add an Xtrig preload adjuster. This will help considerably when un-mounting and remounting bags etc...

[@TACOMOTOCO]

That’s a nice component for sure

[@alvaromartinezagmilmoro8683]

Indeed is the best of both worlds I got mine on 2013 still runs strong

[@ToyotaKTM]

If the GET ECU doesn't already have it, I like to add a sticker inside the side panel with what the error codes mean. I also add a sticker with what the fuses are for. I couldn't ride with that Acerbis tank being full, the CG becomes WAY to high for me. Those rear blinkers wouldn't be legal in Calif. because they aren't far enough apart. The only thing I would add is a cage for the GPS, my first Garmin Montana lasted half of it's first ride. I made my own GPS cage for it's replacement.

[@TACOMOTOCO]

🤘🏽🤘🏽

[@crrnt2684]

Nice build! I have a 2016 and live in Seattle. Maybe I'll bump into this build on the trail, nice work!

[@BraaapoholicBob]

Mike check out the P3 header pipe guard. I have one on my 20 2500 and I have also removed the O2 sensor. The pipe Guard is beefy and does a great job protecting the pipe. The only bummer is it interferes with the oil cap and you have to basically take it off each time you put oil in the bike. Other than that it’s a solid piece of protection

[@TACOMOTOCO]

Good tip, I’ll check that out

[@frontiermotoventures8824]

great content learning a lot on this Chanel. I would disagree on the coolant, I have used engine ice and it made a noticable difference.

[@mikei50]

You guys have great content.

[@davida1679]

I’m (was) getting ready to pull the trigger on a new FE 501S. My hesitation is because of so many owners reporting that bike is a vibration monster! It checks most all the boxes I’m looking for in a new enduro but I’m starting to shy away because that. One owner reported that his upper shock bolt rattled loose on a ride, even though it was checked for torque and had lock tight. I don’t think I can deal with a bike that can do something like that just because it vibrates? Do you or anyone else have any suggestions on a better bike that will be smoother? Not too interested in the CRF 450L due to its stalling out on slow rides.

[@RJvidmoto]

These walk arounds are so helpful! Really appreciate you taking the time to do these. Getting a Beta 390 RE within a couple weeks and will be using some of the accessories and approaches you've taken here. I also have a 2017 Beta 500 RRS that I will implement some of these tips here. Curious if you've done any Beta builds?

[@Ni3ous]

Wow, thanks Mike. Always happy to learn from your endless knowledge you are willing to share with us. Some pretty nice gadgets on the bike. First time I see that number plate solution. Brilliant idea!

[@TACOMOTOCO]

Thanks for checking out our project vids my man!

[@jordangaulke]

Great Build Mike. For a pipe guard without the O2 sensor check out the P3 Carbon Heat Shield Max Coverage.

[@TACOMOTOCO]

Ok good call. I’ll look into that then

[@ericc90]

My dream bike! Would have loved to see that integrated taillight in action

[@TACOMOTOCO]

Well do a walk through soon or some new electronics we have coming for the 21’s and that will def be included

[@AaLl-jw7ci]

@@TACOMOTOCO Will the integrated tail light be a bolt-on for the '20 Husky FE501s?

[@AceOnBase]

@@TACOMOTOCO PLEASE DO THIS VIDEO SOON!

[@twostroker56]

5:20 who makes that sweet folding lever tip??!

[@sameddleman4991]

Im interested in a video on the airbox through throttle body setup mods on this bike or a similar setup!

[@TACOMOTOCO]

Good idea. Look for that soon

[@johnmaddox8765]

You are so good at this

[@TACOMOTOCO]

Awfully kind amigo

[@justsomeguy17199]

I ride the 350, gives me lots to ponder. Good video

[@TACOMOTOCO]

Amazing bike when she can Brest and the fueling is sorted

[@warrenbarry1562]

P3 makes carbon pipe guard for it with more pipe coverage at both ends and no 02 sensor wing, wish the one you put on had more pipe cover on bottom/right as I want the O2.

[@johninwv807]

All those goodies and OEM seat?

[@TACOMOTOCO]

Seat concepts custom seat was on back order and missed the shoot. Also a full titanium end to end FMF exhaust as well. That’s also another few weeks out 😢😢

[@ericlee4076]

Without question one of the cleanest builds I have viewed in some time - Nice work my friend!

[@robertscarisbrick7245]

Hi !! Interesting video . Very informative !! Seems a stock 500ktm needs so much modding to bring it up to a decent performance platform ?? Can’t imagine how much all your mods cost but obviously a large amount on top of buying the bike !! I come from a cycling background where you come across middle aged out of condition riders who think the solution is to buy the lightest and most expensive bike they can find !! I’d be made up to have a new 500 with good tires and a few quid in my pocket to ride more rather than change everything possible while telling myself it’s all so necessary !! Get over it !!

[@Roadracer86]

Where do I get one of the tail light combo units? I didn't see it on your website....

[@warrenbarry1562]

P3 has carbon pipe gaurd without 02 sensor.

[@desertrider325]

Awesome build. I saw you vented the crank case out of the air box. But now you do'nt have vacum pulling the PCV. PCV systems don't vent well to atmosphere. So your oil will get contaminated with the blow by more so since it's not being pulled out. I know you dont want the blow by being re burned so maybe you can make a little light small cheap motor and build a chamber or something that pulls a vacum at all times and than dumps to atomosphere and also be a servicable catch can.

[@TACOMOTOCO]

In a perfect situation all that sounds like the ultimate solution. Obviously packaging constraints are a big issues on a bare bones dirt bike like this. Sounds like you’ve put some time into thinking about this

[@desertrider325]

TACO MOTO CO Yeah I have. You could do it for sure. Keep it small and compact. Plenty of room. I was an automotive tech for years and I also own a 2.7L eco boost ford. They have an issue with build up on the valves since it’s direct injection. There’s a company called RX I think that came up with a cool solution using the turbo intake and a few other already integrated methods to always keep Vacuum. See I was going to do like you did and just plug the air box and vent to atmosphere. But some more digging I found that would be worse off because of all the blow by contaminating the oil. It needs vacuum. Now a small single cylinder that also get more regular oil changes is a differ animal but in theory it’s all still the same. And you now have more pressure in that case trying to just vent on its own. Also not good and could rob a tiny bit of power. Maybe I’ll make one if I get some free time.

[@desertrider325]

TACO MOTO CO You could go back to the intake box but install a little catch can that separates the oil and acid and water and hydrocarbons etc. etc. they sell small little catch cans on eBay you could integrate. They even have clear ones so you can see when you need to dump it. But I wouldn’t leave it the way it is. Just my opinion.

[@desertrider325]

TACO MOTO CO looks like if you search KTM catch can there is a bunch of mods and aftermarket parts people have come up with. Just be sure it all flows properly. PCV should always have fresh air in and vacuum pulling. Catch can keeps the gunk out.

[@leighroydutch9862]

Hi, can you please tell me where the get the brake lever from? You just mentioned that it’s foldable but didn’t mention the brand. Thanks.

[@dannuthals7045]

Hi Mike, please do a new vid when you finish making the TMC multi function rear light unit so we are sure to know about it. There are a lot of us 2020 500 EXC-F boys waiting for you or Sicass to come out with one. Thanks for all the super awesome content bro!

[@TACOMOTOCO]

Hopefully fully available by October 🤘🏽

[@tonyclifton474]

Learned alot from this one video. Excellent work.

[@SurRon_OffRoad]

il swop u the red seal cleaner for a orange ktm one....i could'nt find a red 1 for my crf so i had to get the orange ktm 1

[@TACOMOTOCO]

Risk racing makes the red and orange ones, we have them both tacomoto.co/products/fork-seal-doctor

[@SurRon_OffRoad]

i know mate...i live in the uk ...i wasnt being serious..it would cost about £20 just to do the shipping lol..:) 👍 great work man love the bike

[@xnofriendsx]

Motominded Stout GPS mount. Love mine on my 19 500.

[@louisdriscoll2580]

What’s the wet weight after this build?

[@louisdriscoll2580]

How much $ to do a 2023 ktm 500 Six days version?

[@Arcblood]

What's the total weight of a setup like this? It'd be interesting to get some idea of the big increases and decreases of weight from all these aftermarket parts.

[@xlntplayer2013]

im currently in the market to purchase a 500 excf... but for right now i recently purchased a 2013 husky te 449... the engine has been rebuilt at 10k and runs like a dream. i would like to know what oil you would recommend running for my bike. you sound very intelligent on this subject.. thanks n advance.

[@gorongo4202]

40 yrs riding street and dirt and this class of bike is a brilliant all rounder. Love your customer’s build and would love to test it to see what would i would do to improve my FE501, especially the drive cluster. I’m 6’2” and just need a little more height out of the stock setup. What one thing would you start with for this enhancement?

[@thebraveone22]

Seat concepts XL Tall comfort is a must have. Bar risers in forward position if u can add Scotts Damper nice option too!

[@TACOMOTOCO]

Call us anytime and we can talk some options for you 702-812-6626

[@petepeters3751]

By far an excellent example of a build for a customer. Very confidence inspiring. Just discovered you guys for myself. Looking forward to more tips to come. When can I purchase that slick high and tight tail assembly?

[@drzrider3440]

Yes try the Idaho BDR. Just did it solo on my DRZ400. If you do it, I highly recommend doing it north to south like I did. The rougher stuff is in the north end...better to do it while youre fresh. Stayed at My Blue Heaven for 24 hours. Was awesome. Start at or after July 15th due ti snow melt near 9000 ft level. Crews start clearing the 15th. Was high and dry by the time I reached that area. Its about 1300 miles of what I would guess is 95% dirt roads. Incredible ride.

[@devodar2579]

So sweet! That’s prime time right there!!! Great show. What would s the ballpark be to add all those upgrades please?

[@TACOMOTOCO]

Call me during the week and we can run through some estimated build costs on a bike like this

[@jamescox4823]

Where are getting your Rotella opinion from? As a Pro Racers wrench for many years Ive concluded its heat carry capacity second to none. One time I forgot to put antifreeze in a YZ25FX, after a 1.5 hour race I noticed all cabling touching the case completely melted away. Im thinking ruined motor, nope valves still in spec, no change in leak down etc. The oil that causes excess heat is Moterex due to constant minor clutch slippage.

[@easternyellowjacket276]

Is the brake light unit DOT approved?

[@ZakKrenzer]

When can I get the 2020 Tail Light? I've gotta ditch this stock setup.

[@Dvorczech]

guy on ebay sells them custom for older models..think there was a link on basher designs website on the guys username...i have one works well plug and play

[@Jauny78]

where can I get that back light with integrated flashers? looks great!

[@hasonlavajunk9774]

2017 Ktm 250 exc-f with de-smog kit and slip on fmf 4.0 silencer. Nothing else. Do I need an aftermarket ECU or is this easy enough for the stock KTM ECU to compensate fuel delivery? Bike seems to run great, no backfires or popping on deceleration.

[@ktmdays]

Where did u get the tail light kit I was told sic ass sold them but not for the 2020 ktm 500 excf should like to change my blinkers and fender did u have to put a new ecu in for the end cap

[@TACOMOTOCO]

It’s our custom set up not a SICASS item. Look for more info on these coming soon!

[@salty_bastard]

@@TACOMOTOCO DAMNIT MIKE, HURRY UP! :-)

[@TACOMOTOCO]

The Christmas elves get whipped hourly

[@MrMotoX450]

I have messaged sicass a few times but didn't get any response. I clicked on this video only because I saw 2020 in the title with the fender eliminator in the thumbnail. Your kit looks great! I guess now I have to bookmark your site and check it every day to see when it's available.

[@chasejiannalone8763]

That is the same light Paul Garfield used to sell as a kit on Ebay. I think he stopped a while back. They are fantastic and the sleekest setup possible.

[@dannuthals7045]

Love that you added a TheRideShopAZ folding rear brake tip! I got one a few months ago and love it!

[@TACOMOTOCO]

It’s a really cool part

[@marcospacheco2947]

Muita tecnologia um sonho para nós no Brasil quem dera tivéssemos uma Fábrica e não montadora uma fábrica da KTM aqui com certeza seria um sonho ter uma 500 vc dessa aqui tenho uma SXF 350 2011 A.Cairoli já é um foguete imagino essa moto muito Show Parabéns.

[@austinkaufman9402]

awesome build!

[@TightRickHigher]

Xe ngộ nghĩnh vc, cái bình xăng ông gắn thêm à

[@cengizozbek5285]

From the description of use wouldn’t the 690 enduro have been a better choice because of larger cc and lesser service intervals? I was torn between the two and decided on 690 as it was closer to being that unicorn bike. Thanks for your work

[@6Twisted]

24:53 That's the most skeletonized sprocket I've ever seen

[@andrewpocock1234]

Amazing build, great video!

[@GoldensniperGaming]

Does the 2020 rear tail light assembly fit on a 2019 model?

[@brycecampbell4845]

What does that cost if I send my 2021 KTM 500exc to you to make it exactly like that bike?

[@TACOMOTOCO]

We do builds on all budgets. Call me Monday 🤘🏽

[@reggieholguin7907]

What kind of lift stand is that one next to the one your show showing ?

[@RCThomK]

Skid plate question. How does that one compare to the AXP Xtrem for coverage and protection? Thank you. ✌️🇺🇸

[@handendaer]

will u ever do some vids during building?

[@TACOMOTOCO]

That might be a good idea. Anything in particular you’d like to see?

[@nepicness]

TACO MOTO CO time lapses usually get a ton of views. A lot of guys like Cameron niemela, Adam pagailni, Jeff walker, Cole seeley, dirt n iron, even Rocky Mountain atv do build series of the bikes. But time lapses seem easier that a whole series

[@homehustlerz248]

I have a 2020 500 exc-f. Where can I get this multi light tail unit? I only see the tidy unit on your website!

[@craig5306]

very nice build, does a boysen high flow water pump not help with temperature? or is there better mods to do before that to help?

[@fosternotavailable]

Do you sell those FOX fork wraps?

[@carls.2071]

What oil would you suggest for the EXC500/FE501 ....Motorex? Chevron's SAE 15W-40 heavy-duty diesel oil has the same properties as the Motorex, but less expensive by the case at Costco. Your thoughts.

[@FabriceMamy]

Hi Mike, please can you confirm what brand is the rear light (with turn signal and number plate light)? Price?

[@christianwilliams1136]

With an oiled pu pc racing air filter skin do you also need to oil the foam air filter? And can you wash and reuse the air filter skins?

[@TACOMOTOCO]

Yes and yes🤘🏽

[@adamdyment9732]

Do you have a TPI BDR build? Oil injected bike for BDR riding? I know it's not the ideal bike for it but I think it's a cool idea.

[@TACOMOTOCO]

Yep. We did one last year and have a video on it 😎

[@adamdyment9732]

@@TACOMOTOCO thanks for the reply. I'll have to see if I can find it. Love the channel. If I ever make it big or get rid of some of these kids I'd love to have u guys build me something. Lol.

[@Vdubin4741]

How do you figure a 40w oil at temp is going to rob more horsepower than a 50 or 60w oil at temp like ktm recommends?

[@Papparratzi]

Heat robs power. Sure if you’re doing a short dyno run the 40 will produce more but in the real world, you’ll be using your clutch where using 40w will produce more heat.

[@ktmdays]

I.got a ktm 500 2020.excf with 800mi the side case on the clutch.cover side by water pump has oil.residue on the side of the case had a ktm dealer replace the side case under warranty just got it back took for a spin now had to drop back at shop leaking somewhere still.any idears

[@TACOMOTOCO]

If that dealer can’t fix it call ktm corporate and seek a remedy through them

[@brynrgarnett]

What’re your oil recommendations for a 2020 FE501s?

[@benyork6646]

Hell yes Taco man!!! When I retire my 16 I 'm coming to see you! Killer build...

[@TACOMOTOCO]

When you do let me buy it!

[@dannymonahan4629]

Great video!!!

[@sayen-9649]

do you know the weight of this bike fuel tank????

[@SteelHorseman]

Awesome thanks

[@tontonn9995]

Did you drop any weight? Are those pegs any lower than stock?

[@devinmccarthy1151]

What mousse sizes are you running in those tires? Does an M14 fit that IRC rear? M16 front?

[@keithshaw3272]

Is that the 3.1 or 3.9 fuel tank?

[@madman432000]

blue sprocket bolts on a KTM? 😂 Is that airbox cover stock?

[@TACOMOTOCO]

Titanium! No. It’s aftermarket tacomoto.co/products/vented-air-box-cover

[@axellness]

Is this bike as reliable as the crf450L?

[@TACOMOTOCO]

Yes I think so. I’m a member of a handful of 450l tech groups and they seem to be having similar issues w those bikes, typical to all dirt bikes for the most part really

[@nepicness]

Are you selling that LED tail light housing alone? I’m thinking of putting one on a 15xcfw

[@zenonholinaty8710]

Crazy build 🔥🔥

[@brianv684]

Nice build! Is there a reason the rear axle is installed backwards from stock?

[@southernwarrior9302]

Where can I get those Integrated tail lights? 😍

[@TACOMOTOCO]

From us! Should have those and some other new lighting product out in october Www.tacomoto.co

[@scottyluck440]

Mike, interested in the relay system with the switched aux outputs. Is this something you just threw together or is it a kit? I've got a '20 FE501s and would be interested in that set up.

[@aimg2993]

dude SO sick!!

[@TACOMOTOCO]

Nothing like an ultimate 500 right

[@Papparratzi]

Nice way to start on a sweet bike. Well thought out aftermarket mods that should prove reliable.

[@TACOMOTOCO]

Solid choices for a solid platform

[@MAXlMUS]

20k?

[@stunt_niklas452]

Question: Why would you choose to go on an adventure ride with a bike that requires an oil change every 10-15h? I mean its very light so good in offroading but still not that practical imo

[@TACOMOTOCO]

Because it’s an insanely awesome machine with mind blowing performance and capabilities and we run a high end oil like Motul 300V and do changes in the 20-30 hour range when used for ADV type service 🤘🏽

[@aarons1351]

Because for adventure riding you don't have to change it that often. It's been proven.

[@motolover5697]

You need to do it so often, only, if you race or ride really hard.

[@seanwebb7804]

What is the cost for this setup?

[@TACOMOTOCO]

A set up like this will typically have 12-15k in upgrades and aftermarket

[@farmer3242]

@@TACOMOTOCO these 500s need sooo much money spent on them. I guess if you need a road legal bike you don't have much choice. Iv got a 20 450xcf and putting 6th gear in it in next few days, I will gear it down to get a usable 1st gear and have 6 gears for top end speed, I reckon it will be the ultimate beast, no need to spend money on ecu or exhaust or inlet, just put on a fan and some protection parts.👍

[@Koivisto147]

Is this Timmy from WKUK?

[@TACOMOTOCO]

Sorry?

[@Koivisto147]

@@TACOMOTOCO Lol your voice and your accent is exactly the same as some other guy from a show I used to watch

[@RShivesy]

I really enjoy your videos Taco. Did I see Canyon Dancers on those triple clamp bolts?😁

[@andreasbraun8602]

What type mx stand is that?

[@themotofixery]

Im interested in how those tire moose will work at highway speeds? I've heard they don't work for extended high speed without melting or something.

[@kylerobson1103]

What’s extended to you? I did 30 miles one day, 30 miles the next day, 55-60mph, no problems. Nitro mousse, well lubed with Nitro mousse lube. The manufacturers state you should not ride on the highway, so do that at your own risk. I have heard the same thing about burning up on the highway.

[@imountainman]

my 2020 xcfw is gonna get as sweet as this bad boy over the years.