Opinions:
Strong, controllable power...
Strong, controllable power lets the 250 XC launch when you want to fly.
Overall I liked the KTM 250. The motor makes the bike. The torque is so good off idle that I have trouble making any negative comments because I prefer a bike to pull like this, especially in nasty conditions. I'd throw a few more teeth on the rear sprocket so I could use second more out on the trail. For my weight, the front end pushed when I was just cruising at a slow pace, but when I rode the bike like it was designed to be ridden (race pace) it was much better, just a little to stiff for my 160 lbs. The feel was comfortable and for a KTM the brake and shift levers were easy to locate. Yes, the brakes were strong with good progressive action. This bike has a tall feeling for a 5' 7" dude, but only when in precarious situations. The center of gravity was definitely low and good when I was moving. Oh, and I love the electric start
Dave Donatoni 5'7"/160 lb./Senior A
The KTM XC line is possibly the only series of two-stroke motorcycle I'd consider owning in the modern day of off-road dirt-bikedom. As a card-carrying member of the four-strokes-made-me-lazy-and-I'm-fine-with-it club, I don't necessary feel the need to master the two-stroke game any longer. However, the exception to this rule is clearly the KTM XC line of torquey, fun two-strokes. Case in point: the 250 XC
The beauty of this XC is in its usability. And we're talking across the board here, not just in one area of performance.
Yes, the exhaust is a little...
Yes, the exhaust is a little more vulnerable that a four-stroke's.
The bike captures the power of a 250 with the easy-to-use attitude of a 250F. Its power never surprises and has all the heft necessary for clearing full-on moto obstacles. Delivery is strong and meaty but retains enough two-stroke character to make the clutch a necessary tool for plastering that power to the ground. The "sweet-spot" is definitely there, just align the throttle and clutch and enjoy the ride. All of this is fine and dandy, but the ability to get lazy on this bike is what really wins me over. The ability of the bottom-end to pull on its own (without clutching) is great.
On the suspension front, the bike is surprisingly capable at attacking the harshest end of the spectrum: a Motocross track. The standard XC plushness is enhanced with decent bottoming and much more control than in previous versions of this fork/shock combo. The changes made to both are working. And there is not hint of harshness. Sure, it has its limits. The bike does behave too softly when pushed up to race speeds. And will be maxed out with riders much heavier than 180 lbs.
This 2009 KTM 250 XC is an...
This 2009 KTM 250 XC is an amazing ride, moto or off-road.
Just as with all KTMs, the little things really add up to an attractive package. Even with a premium price tag, the bike brings equal or greater value to the table. Add in the easy air filter access, top-rated durability and pit-board guy on the front number plate and I'm already stocking up on oil...the kind you put in gas.
Jesse Ziegler/5'10"/175lbs./Moto: Vet Intermediate
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