Bad news for berms. The new KTM 250SX-F pulls stronger out of corners.
The new 2007 bikes are rolling in and the latest bike we've received is the 2007 KTM 250SX-F. We just started testing it, and have a few initial impressions to share with you.
The first thing you'll notice when you're kicking over the KTM 250SX-F is that you're kicking over the KTM 250SX-F. The bike did not get the electric start for 2007. That's bad news to some. The good news is that the bike starts great the old fashioned way (or would that be the current way?).
But more important than what the new engine doesn't have is what it does have - strong low-end and mid-range power. Where last year's engine needed to be screamed like a two-stroke, the 2007 SX-F can be ridden like a four stroke. It is still a willing revver, and makes tons of power up there, but that is now complimented with a healthy amount of power down below. The new engine gives the rider more options on how to attack each track obstacle.
KTM worked hard the make the 250SX-F a light bike, and it definietly showed in the air.
The new chassis has a good feel to it. KTMs have been getting their handling more and more `mainstream,' and this new 250F is no exception. Riders unfamiliar with KTMs will not jump on and feel immediately comfortable, but for this engine it might be worth the learning curve. KTM has also, unlike every other brand, begun widening their bikes in key areas to allow riders to better grip the machine with their legs. Riders accustomed to KTMs will like the suspension, stability, and cornering that is a step up from last year's bike.
Then there is the bike's look. Like all the new KTMs, the bike is a dramatic departure from everything else out there. With radical designs like this one, you usually love it or hate it. But this bike includes the option of hating it until you love it. Several of our editors that were initially cool to the bike's look have taken a liking to it now that we've spent more time with, and on, the bike.
And more time is exactly what we intend to devote to this 250F. Watch the magazine pages for our full test on this exciting new contender, and to see how the orange thumper stacks up against the rest of the 250Fs.
The new power gives you the option of how to attack each track obstacle. | 
The linkage-less suspension tracks straight and smooth off jump faces. | 
Some riders obviously feel very comfortable on the orange thumper. |