My foray into the world of Long Hauling this KTM is officially rolling. Since my "Fixing the MXers" piece on the bike in the May '06 issue, the 250 SX-F and I still don't always get along, but we're working things out through an intense race therapy program.
The Vortex X10 ignition was primarily done to emphasize the sound test issues this bike has, but it turned out to really help traction and power tunability. I switched the handlebar toggle from a map labeled "best overall power" to one called "Traction 1," and since it gave a noticeable improvement in traction, I haven't switched it back (I can't wait to try the eight other maps!). Since the FMF PowerCore muffler moved the power more on top, which, for me, this bike didn't need, I tried an Akrapovic Evolution full exhaust system. As I was bolting on the magnificently welded piece of titanium sweetness, I noticed some of its features. What stood out were its conical header tube, trick carbon-fiber mounting straps and heat shields and, as I would discover as my favorite part, a quiet tip with spark-arrestor insert. Just for fun, I bolted the insert in right away and went to the line for my first race.
Well, it's safe to say the exhaust is a winner. It quieted the bike even further, but even better, it produces a healthy, throaty sound that makes my hot-rod blood bubble. The next benefit is it actually moved the power curve down into the low rpm range a tad. Not enough to keep me from changing the gearing-which is on the "up next" list-but noticeable over stock for sure. All this and a factory look that is the envy of my riding buddies, and I can ride it off-road and be spark arrestor legal!
Other than that, I've done two oil changes (one with a complete filter service and one with oil only), and I continue to check over the bike for post break-in loosening of bolts. Spokes, shock bolts (after I lost one) and exhaust mounts are something I'm checking before and after every ride. I also bolted on a set of Acerbis Uniko hand guards with their optional metal brackets for a GP race at Glen Helen Raceway Park. I've been getting great mileage with the stock Bridgestones so I'm sticking with them. So far I've only gone through one rear 402. -Jesse Ziegler
Running Tally
Hours on Bike: 23.5
Modifications: $2137.80
Acerbis Uniko Hand Guards: $38.95
Acerbis Uniko aluminum mount kit: $24.95
Akrapovic Evolution full system: $1273
Maintenance and Repairs: $80.64 (not including tires)
2 quarts of Motorex Cross power 4T 10W50 motor oil: $13.95 each
KTM oil filter: $9.10
Upper shock bolt and bushing: $14.69/total
2 Twin Air Bio Factory preoiled air filters: $28.95
Bridgestone M402: $96.95, rear