VOL. 56 ISSUE 1 JANUARY 8, 2019 P75
I N G F I E L D
YAMAHA YZ250F
The Blu Cru arrived in 2019 with a fully
redesigned YZ250F, finally retiring the
platform that dominated the class until
2018. The '19 YZ sees new engine, frame
and bodywork designs, while continuing to
ride on the same KYB suspension package.
No shame in staying consistent here
though, the YZ is known for having the
best-in-class handling. Yamaha also finally
fitted the YZ250F with an electric starter
and made the bike compatible with their
Power Tuner smartphone app.
HUSQVARNA FC 250
Despite what the spec sheets say, the
Husqvarna FC 250 is its own motorcycle—
not just a white KTM. The Husqvarna
varies from its Austrian counterpart in
small details that equal big differences,
specifically the Magura hydraulic clutch
(instead of the Brembo unit on the
KTM), composite subframe, and Pro
Taper handlebars. For '19, the FC gets
an updated steel frame, updated engine
mapping and a redesigned exhaust
system. Husqvarna took victory in last
year's shootout, but are these changes
enough to keep it there?
KTM 250 SX-F
The Orange Brigade came up short in last
year's shootout, but is out to change that
this time around with an updated 2019
250 SX-F. The KTM is arguably the fastest
in the class and tips the scales lighter than
the competition. New for this year is a
revised steel frame, updated seat shape,
and more efficient radiator design. The
Brembo brakes, hydraulic clutch, and WP
AER 48 forks are familiar components
from year's prior, meaning KTM left the
positives of the SX-F untouched.
