KTM 250 EXC-F 2017. Like all of the KTM Enduro range 2017, the 250 EXC-F is changing in depth with big promises on paper, but dynamic? We tested the small 4-stroke KTM. This 250 EXC-F is changing dramatically for the 2017 season, in line with the 350 EXC-F 2017 we have already tested even here. We remind you, both bikes share very similar mechanical bases, to the point that their most significant difference is their capacity. Already excited about her big sister so it is not without curiosity that we are about to get to know the small Austrian engine.
Bye bye kick
As for the 350 EXC-F, and even the entire enduro range, we regret the disappearance of the engine guard, an almost indispensable element once one comes out of wide paths and not wishing to "caress" the rocks with the housings of his motorcycle. Well, note that the base engine of 250 EXCF is now more compact, a little "inside" the frame and therefore less exposed, but it is not enough to pass a shoe.
So far, the kick and electric start doing the pair, only the Husqvarna Enduro saw the kick away to not trust that magic button. Unsurprisingly therefore, the KTM following the trend started by their close cousins for this vintage 2017. We do not necessarily see it as a good thing, but when it informed the factory staff, a far cry from the official line argument weight gain out from the crowd: "You know, at the time we cried foul when the crank is gone 4L, and finally we got it!" Well, okay! the argument did fly, but with 4L, it's still the roadside that broke down, so for the most skeptical it will still be possible to install the kick Available option on Powerpart catalog!
Fun with finesse!
After spending the day on the KTM, it's not the 250 EXC-F that will truly change the game in terms of ergonomics. The reception is natural despite the change of frame geometry, very close to it we noted last year, but the bike wants to be more compact between the legs. Static, except for some levers settings, it is not looking where to stand, and it also dynamic!
First observation for this 250 KTM enduro 2017, it shows well balanced and also lighter, which track brings a liveliness higher. The 250 EXC-F was never a difficult place to bike, well, this year it is even less! Clearly, we feel the boss on board, we can afford trajectory a little eccentric for example, take support where we never thought too much venture with 450. In short, it is fun and easy the KTM 250 EXC-F 2017!
WP PDS, one vote
The new chassis and refocused the masses there are many far helped by new suspension WP Xplor perfectly granted. Certainly, those ones may seem flexible, especially for faster or heavier driver, but cashing calmly shock, do not react viciously on the impacts "unexpected" and especially the shock did a great job. WP PDS always seems more relevant against the amorto WP rods that can be found at Husqvarna because it is simpler and cheaper maintenance, but no less effective, at least for my level closer to the league that of the Elite.
Finally, you speak well of brake KTM EXC-F, but no front brake not being identical (either a lever or a disc, or both from the accessories catalog), no motorcycle braked in the same way, it was the false good idea of this presentation.
Small but big engine
The engine of the KTM 250 EXC-F 2017 is a bit as if he welcomed you with open arms for you to show great affection! So nice that its grip is amazingly simple. With its linear motor and its very precise light throttle, the bike erases steering imperfections. And even if he has health for a 250 4-stroke engine that is not likely to surpass you without warning. Like the chassis, it is the pilot boss aboard the Kate and once again it is a guarantee of fun.
So it has strength this mill, it starts from very low and up high in the towers with a constant efficiency. Of course, you always can not afford to ride with a higher ratio, there is a fair bit. But the air of nothing, leaving the engine "die" in the towers down at the start of a difficult, well it continues its work, it is not conclusive but it goes anyway without necessarily shine the clutch to avoid stalling! Chapeau.
Finally, the switch selection injection curves (optional) allows to have a little more punchy engine, which will appreciate in special when it comes out the attack. For its part, the standard curve is ample hiking, and roundness will be even more comfortable in trialisantes areas.
Final Conclusion: The simple and effective enduro
You understood, thi KTM 250 EXC-F 2017 is the easiest way to practice enduro. Her balance and light weight make it an easy bike to ride while its suspension ensure a very healthy behavior. Engine side, it seems to gain a little performance on this new vintage, but again that scores the most is the simplicity of its handling, with a very elastic behavior that allows the steering approximations (note that the box is also well staged to practice enduro). And nothing to spoil, the engine brake knows how to be discreet.
In the end, the KTM 250 EXC-F 2017 has many a wide range of expertise, as comfortable with a novice enduro or unassuming for rollings "without taking head "with an experienced driver who will go very quickly to the handlebars. Only flat, always a price that "pique", € 9,500 € 150 more than last year.
By Arnaud Vibien, photos & S. Romero Mr. Campelli
equipment focused on this test:
Keeping JT Hyperlite Voltage (Maillot: € 49.90; Pants: € 139.90)
Helmet Troy Lee Design SE3 Reflection: € 579
More:
Finishing / Equipment
Moto easy
Comfort and efficiency suspensions
Handling up
Less:
Missing shoe and kick
Suspensions too flexible?
Still (too) expensive
KTM 250 EXC-F 2017: To remember
Price: € 9,500 (to 07/0616) Availability: end June 2016
Official source review: moto-station.com
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