2022 KTM Motocross and Cross-Country Bikes First Look

Most years, an orange frame is reserved for KTM’s limited-edition 450 SX-F Factory Edition, but such is not the case for MY22. Those who have longed for the latest-generation KTM motocross and cross-country models to come with orange frames are in luck as the Austrian brand has shelved the black frame paint in favor of orange for its 2022 lineup. For MX, this includes the 125 SX, 150 SX, and 250 SX two-stroke machines as well as the 250 SX-F, 350 SX-F, and 450 SX-F four-stroke motorcycles. On the off-road competition model side is the 125 XC, 250 XC TPI, 300 XC TPI, 250 XC-F, 350 XC-F, and 450 XC-F.

The last time the Austrian manufacturer’s standard motocross and cross-country models featured orange frames was in 2018 before receiving a full overhaul for 2019. The same thing happened in 2015; those bikes came with orange frames and the following year brought a long list of updates. Is this a sign of things to come? Although we can’t say for certain, an orange frame on KTM’s standard motocross and off-road competition models usually signifies big updates are in the works for the 450 SX-F Factory Edition and the following year’s standard models. While that is somewhat speculative, the noticeable trends of years past are worth mentioning. The telltale sign will be the 2022 450 SX-F Factory Edition. If it is significantly updated this year, we’ll have a good idea of what to expect for the 2023 KTM dirt bikes.

RELATED: 2021 450 Motocross Bike Comparison Test

Appearance changes across KTM’s 2022 motocross and cross-country lineup include a blue seat cover and new graphics. The 250 SX-F, 350 SX-F, 250 XC-F, and 350 XC-F come with a new counterbalancer shaft bearing in the engine to reduce friction and increase durability. Also, the 125 XC is spec’d with a one-tooth-smaller rear sprocket. According to KTM, the switch to a 50-tooth was to increase the 125cc two-stroke cross-country racer’s top-end speed. The 2022 KTM SX, SX-F, XC, and XC-F models will be available at authorized KTM dealers from May 2021 onward.