2020 K TM 250 XC-W TPI
R I D E R E V I E W
P94
W's are as advanced as it gets
with the latest frame and compo-
nentry updates the XC models
had last year. Plus, they enjoy the
TPI updates as these bikes had
TPI in 2019. However, the 150
XC-W did not, and now it does.
So, if you're riding a two-stroke
KTM off-road and want a W, it's
going to be TPI from 2020 on.
The 250s, in particular, have
a bit more engine work done.
They get increased compression
via a new cylinder head. And
all the bikes have the obviously
new exhaust systems—both the
pipe and si-
lencer featuring
radically new
shapes and
performance
characteristics.
The pipe is the
big attention getter with its ribbed
structure—said to decrease
sound and increase strength—but
the silencer is quite a looker, too.
Its angular shape is longer than
before and actually lighter, ac-
cording to the KTM info.
As far as componentry and
build-spec, few motorcycle
models are as dialed in for their
intended terrain and purpose
as the XC-Ws. They have just
enough aggression to be ultra-
competitive but are compliant
and comfortable enough to keep
you planted firmly in the racing
line of sight all day. Take one to
a motocross track, and you'll
quickly find its limits. But keep
it ripping between the trees and
hunting for technical lines, and
you'll be pleased.
The newest KTM two-stroke
XC-W's come in 150, 250 and
300cc options. The middle
displacement remains my abso-
lute favorite, as I mentioned in
the 2020 KTM 250 XC TPI story
and, if you've ever talked to me
in person, I will tell you why I like
250s over 300s all day long. But
I actually rode Mark Hyde's 300
in Ohio, and I understand where
you 300 people are coming from.
For me, this was my second
race test of KTM's new 2020 TPI
lineup of injected two-strokes
(both 250s). The first left me
wanting more out of TPI when
(Above) KTM lets the aftermarket company handle things
like wrap-around handguards. Enduro Engineering came
to our rescue.(Left) The ribbed exhaust pipe is said to
increase strength while decreasing noise.
