Cycle News is a weekly magazine that covers all aspects of motorcycling including Supercross, Motocross and MotoGP as well as new motorcycles
Issue link: https://magazine.cyclenews.com/i/1546306
P118 RIDE REVIEW I KTM 250 SX-F VS. HUSQVARNA FC 250 FACTORY EDITIONS on these bikes. Otherwise, you can just stick on your numbers, adjust the sag, and go racing on near-factory motorcycles. CN son one might not consider the Factory Editions a good deal is if you have personal sponsors that restrict you from using the parts Suspension on both bikes is better than on the standard models. The rear end feels glued to the ground, and I was surprised by how much grip I could get away with in areas where other bikes slide out. I like Cone Valve forks for their improved front-end feel, and this setup offers better front- wheel comfort than the stock air forks, which can be vague and require more babysitting with air pressure. Both bikes excel in hard-packed conditions and can give you the confidence to make decisive moves even when a rut or a berm is not an option. Although these bikes may look similar on paper, they differ significantly on the track. VERDICT At 6 feet tall, I gelled with the KTM more than the Husqvarna. The lower seat height, though only half an inch lower, is no- ticeable, and the ProTaper bar bend made the bike feel much smaller than the KTM. It's easy to move around on and can make lines in flat corners that other bikes just can't. However, that lowered stance didn't feel as comfortable for me and my taller frame. Shorter riders will likely have different opinions, but the KTM suited me better than the Husqvarna. Both bikes offer great value, too. With the Factory Edition models, you get a package deal that bundles those upgrades at a reduced price. The top-of-the- line exhaust, wheels, clamps and suspension clearly justify the price bump. The only rea - *Bold above are the differences between the two bikes 2026 HUSQVARNA FC 250 2026 KTM 250 SX-F FACTORY EDITION FACTORY EDITION MSRP $12,699 $12,599 Engine 4-stroke, single Cooling System Liquid Displacement 249cc Starting System Electric Transmission 5-speed Bore x Stroke 81mm x 48.5mm Clutch Wet multi-disc, Brembo hydraulics Fueling Keihin EFI, throttle body 44mm Front Suspension WP Pro Components Xact Pro 7548 front fork Rear Suspension WP Pro Components Xact Pro 8950 rear shock Front Travel 11.81 in. Rear Travel 11.5 in. 11.8 in. Brakes Front semi-floating 260mm disc, rear 220mm disc Handlebar Pro Taper, aluminum Exhaust FMF Akrapovic Front Wheel 21 in., Excel rim 21 in., D.I.D Rear Wheel 19 in., Excel rim 19 in., D.I.D Tires Dunlop MX34 Seat Height 37.2 in. 37.7 in. Fuel Capacity 1.9 gal. Weight (no fuel, claimed) 232.36 lbs. 231.48