VOLUME ISSUE FEBRUARY , P103
I've participated in a few Gnarly Routes rides,
which are fantastic. Clients have access to top-
notch equipment and the best routes available. So,
when I learned that Cole was finishing his 2024 KTM
300 XC-W guide bike build, I figured our readers
would want to know what modifications he makes
to his ride to keep it running perfectly all year.
What I love about this bike build is that it's all
very well thought out. It's not a magazine bike build
with flashy graphics and unnecessary additions that
compromise functionality. Everything serves a pur
-
pose, and he even highlights the changes he makes
for different uses. I hope you enjoy it. And if you're
like me, you'll be taking notes for your next trail bike
or enduro race bike build.
Take It Away, Cole!
"I would consider myself a 'medium enduro' rider. I
grew up riding and racing enduro in the early 2000s
and always enjoyed riding technical enduro trails.
I like my bike to be comfortable and predictable
on a variety of terrain, and my setup has made this
bike a Swiss army knife for the types of riding I do.
Recently, I started setting up a 2025 300 XC, and it
is impressive how different the motor characteris
-
tics are between the two bikes. The XC straight up
hauls ass, where the XC-W is much more forgiving
and what I consider to be sneaky fast. It doesn't feel
fast, but when you put a stopwatch on it, you'll be
surprised at how quick it is.
(L to R) A Rekluse TorqDrive with billet cover
provides extra protection and easier lever
pull. Kirkpatrick runs Solid Performance-
tuned WP Pro Components with 4.6 fork
springs and a 6.9 shock spring. Kirkpatrick's
bike is fitted with a DP brake with a solid
rear rotor. Seat Concepts takes care of all of
Kirkpatrick's seat needs.
