Big jumps on motocross tracks,...
Big jumps on motocross tracks, surprisingly, no problem.
Thus far, the KTM 250 XC is my favorite 2008 model from the boys in orange. It makes smooth power, yet the mellow hit is so versatile that you feel like you can do anything. I believe that I speak for all two-stroke fans: The KTM 250 is a prime example of why mixed gas is not obsolete.
-Chris Denison
5'10"/155 lb/Intermediate
This is the KTM with the best pound-to-horsepower ratio. Nothing beats the two-stroke power and pop. The vulnerable pipe is the only two-stroke drawback. You're going to come back with a dent or two!
-Tod Sciacqua
5'8"/167 lb/Vet pro
I felt physically comfortable the second I got on the KTM 250 XC. The suspension is literally ready to race, and the bike never got out of control, no matter what gear it is in or how hard I push it. I really like KTM's "stealth" style.
-Chris Dvoracek
5'10"/155 lb/Expert
It is no surprise that this 250 XC is such a hot property in tight and technical woods racing. The engine is so willing and tractable, it all but does the riding for you. It feels as light as air. For trails, the suspension is too hard.
-Karel Kramer/6'1"/210 lb/B rider
KTM's 300 engine is fast as hell! KTM did a good job making sure no one would say the 250 and 300 feel like the same bike. On slippery trails, the bike was hard to ride because of so much low-rpm grunt.
-Chris Dvoracek/5'10"/155 lb/Expert
I'm pumped on the 250 XC, but the 300 still seems a bit awkward to me. The power is great for fast sections, but the extra horsepower is like an excited host that keeps offering serving after serving of a filling meal. The 300 XC forced me to politely decline on more than one occasion. I was nicely surprised at the chassis' ability to not wear me out.
-Chris Denison/5'10"/155 lb/Intermediate
Dvoracek's lost it on this one. KTM's 300 is a perfect two-stroke and more than 50cc better than a 250cc. It does require more throttle control. I'd prefer the more trail-friendly 300 XC-W, but I'd roost on any KTM 300.
-Karel Kramer
6'1"/210 lb/B rider
I got on the KTM 250 XC-F expecting horsepower like a trail bike, but this bike builds power quickly, it has smooth delivery and it hauls! I could pound any size whoops and hit G-outs without a problem. I never found a spot in the rpm range where I wanted more power.
-Chris Dvoracek
5'10"/155 lb/Expert
The '08 250 XC-F is lighter, faster, turns better and has much better low-rpm urge than the 2007 model. Most 250F riders are light, and considering that fact, the suspension is too stiff for technical trails, but the bike rocks for a mix of moto, WORCS/GNCC and trail use.
-Karel Kramer
6'1"/210 lb/B rider
The 250 XC-F was a lot of fun to ride, especially at the end of the day. It felt about 40 pounds lighter than the 450, and after a long day of trail riding, when all your buddies are pooping out on you, you can look like a hero with lots more energy!
-Tod Sciacqua
5'8"/167 lb/Vet pro