VOLUME ISSUE DECEMBER , P141
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The KTM 250 SX-F crosses
the line in a close second
place. It might not win the whole
thing, but it does take the cake
as the best Austrian bike in our
test. At just one pound heavier
than the Husqvarna, you pay
$100 less for regular-sized WP
Xact suspension, along with the
same electronics and high-qual-
ity Brembo brakes. This bumped
it past the Husky and rightfully
clear of the GasGas.
The KTM is arguably the easi-
est bike to ride all-around—fast
or slow, on smooth or rough
ground. This is a bike we could
ride all day long in any condi-
tion. Initial power is smooth,
and the engine is directly
connected to your right hand.
It blends the best qualities of
the high-revving GasGas with
the ultra-smooth Husqvarna
into a versatile package for any
condition. The Austrian bikes are
screamers, and the KTM is no
different. You can rev this bike
into near oblivion, and it just
keeps going. The green map has
become everyone's preferred
setting, as the more aggressive
choice fits the bill for the faster
straights and big jumps at Fox
Raceway. Torque is plentiful, and
the midrange power remains
smooth and usable. The traction
control and quickshifter are nice
options to have, whether you
choose to engage them or not.
Plain and simple, this motor is
the perfect blend of fast and fun
for novices and pros.
The KTM's suspension re-
mains the hottest point of con-
tention. The air fork improves
with each iteration, and the lack
of springs allows for a weight
reduction compared to heavier
metal alternatives. Front wheel
KTM 250 SXF
M
