K
KTM
In production2010–

Chicago

mtb
01

Origin

The Chicago is KTM Fahrrad's volume entry-level hardtail, introduced around 2010 and still current. It serves as the brand's starting point for mountain biking — affordable, reliable, and easy to maintain. The Street variant (with lights, rack, mudguards and kickstand) blurs the line between trail bike and daily commuter, a characteristically practical Austrian approach.

02

Specifications

Frame
6061 aluminium alloy, MTB geometry; QR 100 mm front / QR 135 mm rear
Weight
kg
Drivetrain
3×9: Shimano Altus MT101 40-30-22 T crankset, Shimano Altus M2000 rear derailleur, Shimano Altus M2020 front derailleur, Shimano HG200-9 11-36 cassette, KMC Z9 chain
Brakes
Tektro HD-T275 hydraulic disc, 2-piston; Shimano RT10 CL 180 mm front / 160 mm rear rotors
Wheels
KTM Line 29", 32-spoke, Shimano HB-TX505 / FH-TX505 hubs; QR axles
03

The verdict

+Strengths
  • Hydraulic disc brakes even at entry price deliver consistent stopping power
  • Street variant is a practical all-rounder with commuting accessories included
  • Schwalbe Smart Sam tires work across tarmac, gravel and light trail
Weaknesses
  • 3×9 Shimano Altus drivetrain is dated — frequent chain-drop risk on rough trails
  • Coil fork (no lockout on base trims) adds weight and bobbing on road climbs
  • QR axle standard throughout the range — lacks the stiffness of modern thru-axle setups
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Tags

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