Test: With the KTM Life 1964, the Austrians have a classic trekking bike in their ranks. Starting with the frame, through the equipment, to the handling, you offer an all-round solid performance for everyday use.
Frame Shapes: Diamond / Trapezoid
Permissible system weight: 136kg
Maximum payload: 120,29kg
suspension fork: Yes / SR Suntour NCX Lockout
spring support: No
Weight: Kg 15,71
Price: € 1.299
The name of this trekking bike in the classic matt black look refers to the year KTM was founded. Only a few color accents in orange (alternatively as "Life Force" in grey-blue with grey-blue lettering) stand out from the subtle look; that's elegant and also ensures that the bike doesn't stand out so much in the bike stand - given the price of just under 1.300 euros, this is not an unimportant selling point.
What do you get for this sum? First of all, a solid frame with a nicely done internal cable routing - brake line and gear cable enter the head tube, which nobody else in this test field manages so well. The fork, painted in a matching color, springs with a steel spring and not with air, but responds sufficiently well and absorbs strong impacts well. In terms of equipment, the Austrian manufacturer uses the Shimano Deore, supplemented by an LX rear derailleur. With 3 x 10 gears and a hollow shaft bottom bracket, the bike is technically up-to-date. The Racktime carrier with spring clamp can carry up to 25 kilos; the B&M spotlight is extremely bright with 50 lux - so the completion is correct, and high-quality tires are also included.
The comparatively short top tube leads to a more upright sitting position; The difference in height between the saddle and the handlebars isn't very big - even though there are a number of spacers under the stem. A longer head tube would be desirable. Direct steering and a lot of stability at high speeds ensure that the trekking bike is pleasant to ride; high-quality Ergon grips ensure comfort on the handlebars.
The KTM Life 1964 shows its best side right from the start, because with internally routed cables it appears discreet and unobtrusive in combination with the design. is has a relatively short top tube, which significantly influences the maneuverability of the bike. Despite the rather high handlebars due to the spacers, you still get a direct and appealing steering behavior. At high speeds, however, the KTM runs very smoothly and doesn't start to flutter. In conjunction with the relatively short main frame, the rider has a pleasant riding experience and a comfortable seating position, even if the head tube is a bit too low for our liking. The equipment also does a good job: gears and suspension deliver and work solidly.
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