Motorcycle specifications KTM250 EXC 2017 Match tout terrain

Riding a competition bike is like stepping into the ring. In the world of enduro, the new KTM 250 EXC doesn't box in the same category as its equal-weight rivals. Confident in its strength, it's even ready to take on more complex 4-stroke bikes. Muscular and free of all superfluous kilos, this 2-stroke impresses with its slender silhouette, its length and its liveliness.

fRAME

the high-tech chromium-molybdenum steel frame is a model of lightness, flexibility and handling, offering excellent stability and devilish precision in corners. Thanks to its high torsional stiffness and low longitudinal rigidity, this frame absorbs the energy generated by the front and rear suspensions when jumping or going over a bump. The ride is more comfortable and less tiring. The dropouts that link the cylinder head to the frame are as light as ever. Side-mounted, they also contribute to limiting vibration levels. Two threaded inserts have been provided in the lower cradle tubes for the addition of a shoe, should the need arise. The engineers can be proud of their work, as the frame is now one kilo lighter than the lightest competing frame on the market today. Every effort has also been made to facilitate maintenance and free up space for the fuel tank and other components. The ultra-light rear section, made of stable aluminum profiles, weighs in at less than 900 grams.

oSCILLANT ARM

the new design optimizes the position of the PDS shock absorber for even smoother engagement. In addition to an attractive weight saving (220 g), cast aluminum offers ideal bending behavior. The one-piece molding process eliminates the imperfections inherent in welding, guaranteeing a more homogeneous manufacturing quality.

fOOTREST

the sophisticated "zero dirt" footrests on EXC models have been raised by 6 mm compared to those on SX versions.

fRONT SUSPENSION

another interesting new feature on this bike is the WP XPlor 48 inverted fork with separate damping circuits, developed by WP in close collaboration with KTM. Each fork leg is equipped with a spring and has a different function: the left leg handles compression damping, while the right leg handles rebound. To fine-tune each of these settings, simply turn the 30-notch knob above the plunger. To reduce the risk of bottoming, the fork features a longer, sealed hydraulic stop. High-quality materials, ultra-sophisticated production process, 300 mm travel, 200 g weight savings over the previous model : nothing has been left to chance to make the new XPlor 48 fork the ultimate in responsiveness and damping.available as an option, the new preload adjuster allows the triple compression spring to be adjusted without the need for tools.

bRAKES

more responsive, more efficient and more powerful than ever, Brembo brakes will cope with any situation. These little jewels of technology are combined with Wave discs renowned for their lightness. The rear brake pedal has been lengthened by 10 mm, and the brake caliper piston is now smaller, for better brake proportioning. The stainless steel front brake hose now has a protective sheath with a cable guide for the speedo wire. Optimum braking power is a must when you intend to push your machine.

rEAR SUSPENSION

the bike is equipped with a brand-new PDS XPlor shock absorber developed by WP. A true KTM trademark, the progressive damping system (PDS) has proved its worth time and again. As the shock absorber is connected directly to the upper part of the swingarm, it does away with the linkage system. This set-up has been redesigned with the new frame and swingarm architecture in mind. It's based on impeccable geometry and even more progressive damping. The body, also completely redesigned, features a smaller piston and a larger chamber. To save precious grams, the piston diameter has been reduced from 50 to 46 mm, the overall length has been cut by 2.5 mm and the shock absorber stroke has been reduced by 4 mm. As the shock absorber has been moved 5 mm closer to the central axis, the loads exerted on the swingarm and frame are virtually symmetrical. This also frees up space for the exhaust system. The second piston, combined with a cup-shaped limit stop (instead of a needle stop), is supported by a progressive-action spring. This part has been lightened by over 600 grams. With its various machined and anodized components and its characteristic WP color scheme (black chamber, white spring and silver body), this ultra-sophisticated shock absorber makes a strong impression.

eNGINE

the 250 EXC's 2-stroke engine has long had the reputation of being the most powerful in its class. All the hopes placed in this segment have paid off, confirming the enormous potential of KTM's 2-stroke engines. Inexpensive, these engines shine for their simplicity. And what about their power-to-weight ratio? It's simply mind-boggling. To put our convictions into practice, we've completely redesigned the engine structure of the 250 EXC and made a number of improvements: new shaft assembly for improved mass centralization, new exhaust-controlled cylinder with double TVC exhaust valve, new balance shaft to attenuate engine vibration.quilibrium shaft to reduce vibration, new, perfectly integrated electric starter, special 6-speed enduro gearbox and hydraulic DDS clutch. Lightning-quick, this compact engine has everything to dazzle performance-seeking racers and seduce budget-conscious riders.

cYLINDER

the 250 EXC's 66.4 mm-bore cylinder features all-new ports and a completely redesigned exhaust control. A sophisticated mechanism for the exhaust channels on the side support ensures smooth power delivery. What's more, the engine's character can be altered in a matter of seconds by adjusting the two dedicated exhaust control springs. Whatever the track conditions, you're sure to find the most suitable settings. Nothing has been left to chance: the new water jackets inside the cylinder and cylinder head dissipate heat more effectively. The two ultra-light cylinder-head side brackets have been reworked to give greater rigidity to the engine-frame assembly.

vILEBREQUIN

the 72 mm piston stroke remains the same, but everything else has changed. Re-balanced and modernized, the engine benefits from a new balance shaft that eliminates vibrations, but still delivers the same sensations. With its heavier rotor, the motor's inertia is greater than that of the SX model, but it provides a welcome boost of power to get you out of the most unlikely situations.

cARBURER

starting with AM 2017, all KTM 2-stroke models will be equipped with the new MIKUNI TMX carburetor instead of the usual Keihin carburetor. This 38-mm flat-barrel carburetor offers a clear improvement in power delivery over the entire operating range. It is also less sensitive to changes in altitude and temperature.

mOTOR CARTER

to improve mass centralization, engineers chose to raise the clutch shaft and crankshaft by 8 and 27 mm respectively inside the all-new molded crankcases, resulting in exceptional handling. This clever design also frees up space for the installation of a balance shaft, so you can swallow up the miles at full speed and in complete relaxation. Another interesting innovation to keep the engine as radiant as in the early days: new engine covers with an elaborate surface structure designed to reduce wear caused by the rider's boots.

bALANCER SHAFT

numb hands and feet are not inevitable. The engine's new design has made it possible to use a side-mounted balancer shaft, which contributes to a considerable reduction in vibration levels (50% less at the handlebars and footrests). This obviously has a beneficial effect on driving pleasure.

eLECTRIC STARTER

the 250 cm3 2-stroke engine features a new electric starter, tucked away beneath the engine. The mechanism is less complex and even more reliable than its predecessor. And since it's powered by an ultra-powerful lithium-ion battery, there's no risk of it running down any time soon.

cLUTCH

the 250 EXC uses a DDS (Damped Diaphragm Steel) clutch developed by KTM, featuring a wear-free steel clutch housing and heat-resistant clutch plates. A special feature of this design is the use of a diaphragm spring instead of the usual coil springs, giving the clutch greater flexibility. The diaphragm spring also leaves ample room for a damping system integrated into the clutch hub, to enhance traction and durability. The clutch bell is lighter, the clutch nut has been reworked, and the pressure plate helps optimize oil supply and cooling. Brembo's hydraulic clutch mechanism plays an essential role in the clutch's progressiveness and operation.

gEARBOX

although this new 6-speed enduro gearbox offers the same gear ratios as its predecessormultiplication ratios as its predecessor, the engineers have focused on making gear shifting even smoother and more precise. As safety is also an essential parameter, the selector adopts a new "zero dirt" design that prevents the lever joint from jamming due to dirt. Because even greasy terrain enthusiasts take a dim view of mud when it gets lodged in the wrong places.

eXHAUST

a great deal of attention has been paid to the combustion chamber to release even more power. Thanks to state-of-the-art 3D production processes, this engine is a marvel of precision, explosiveness and solidity.

gUIDON

when it comes to handlebars, KTM engineers have always known which way to go. This NEKEN handlebar, with its high-strength aluminum profile, is no exception. It features an innovative throttle response mechanism, a sturdy aluminum handlebar and an ultra-simple guard adjustment system. right: an ODI vulcanized grip; left: the ODI lock-on grip, as comfortable as it is practical, thanks to its glue- and wire-free mounting system.

fORK TIPS

the new generation features forged fork crowns with a 22 mm offset for improved fork retention and even more precise front-end behavior. The handlebars can be moved forward or back in four positions for a perfect grip.

fUEL TANK

thanks to its transparent plastic, the ultra-light 9.5-liter polyethylene fuel tank lets you know at a glance how much fuel is left. To refuel, simply press the orange button in the center of the cap to open the tank in a flash.

wHEELS

when it comes to wheels, KTM engineers know their stuff. Featuring ultra-light CNC-machined hubs and top-of-the-range Giant rims, these wheels guarantee maximum stability despite limited weight. To top it all off, they're fitted with the latest generation of Maxxis tires. In addition to improved puncture resistance, the rear tire features a specially designed profile and internal structure to enhance grip in wet conditions. Whatever the terrain, these tires deliver maximum traction.

aIR FILTER HOUSING

equipped with new intake snorkels, the air-filter housing has also been redesigned to better protect the air filter from clogging and ensure optimum airflow with complete peace of mind. The cage housing the new extra-large Twin Air air filter is totally rigid, helping to hold the system more securely in place. The design is so simple that you could replace the filter even with your face covered in mud. And you don't need any tools. And in a matter of seconds.

cOOLING SYSTEM

kTM's proven cooling system circulates coolant from the cylinder head through the frame triangle to the new aluminum WP radiators, equipped with a new plug system and made of a stiffer alloy. Its incredible efficiency is due to improved internal airflow management and advances in ventilation thanks to CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) calculations. Well thought-out radiator guards integrated into the front spoilers are particularly useful in the event of an impact.

bATTERY AND WIRING HARNESS

the electric starter is now combined with an ultra-compact lithium-ion battery, claimed to weigh just 495 g - 1 kg less than a conventional battery, despite being three times more powerful. The battery and cable harness are now grouped in a compartment above the air-filter housing, so that the electrical circuit is not in the way when the rear section of the frame is removed.

sADDLE

tailored to provide a comfortable support surface for enduro riding, this ultra-strong saddle has been lowered by 10 mm to enable the rider to maintain perfect control of the bike, even on the most demanding terrain.

cARÉNAGE

kTM factory riders collaborated on the bike's design with KTM R&D specialists and the Kiska design agency, with a single watchword: to create perfect harmony between rider and machine. The result is convincing. Ergonomics and contact points for the rider have been carefully designed for maximum freedom of movement. The lowered saddle offers superior comfort, especially at the rear. The special shape of the front and rear mudguards is a perfect example of intelligent design: thanks to a well-thought-out structure and assembly, these mudguards guarantee maximum stability, while being lighter at the same time. Better still, they stay clean longer. The headlamp plate is also a model of ergonomics.

Information and media credits: KTM