KTM 300 XC Full Review - Long Term - Enduro King?
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- Опубліковано 14 жов 2024
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Could this be the best dirt bike in the world? It's time for the full review of the KTM 300 XC. This is my new favorite platform from the vast KTM offroad/enduro lineup. It is made for the rider the wants to charge fast, push harder, and carry more speed into the big hits, and jumps. The suspension is stiffer, allowing you to hit things harder than with the XC-W lineup. While it's tailored to the rider who wants to go faster, it's still amazing in the slow technical sections of the trails due to the fantastic 300 two-stroke motor, and the very adjustable 4CS WP forks.
This bike is the reason I can't fully move to Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, or Suzuki. They just don't offer a bike as versatile as this one.
This bike is a home run!
Bikes it eats up for enduro riding:
Honda CRF450
Yamaha YZ450F
Kawasaki KX450
Suzuki RM450
I can honestly tell you that I don't believe there is a more well rounded off road dirt bike than the KTM 300 XC. It can do it all. It can go slow. It can go fast. It can be quiet and docile and it can be a fire breathing dragon. This is the 2015 model in this video and it's phenomenal.
Update: I now own the 2017 version of this bike, and it's even better. I love the new frame and I love the new motor. the 2017 is easier to stand up on and the motor is as smooth as butter. The AER forks on the 2017 are great and are better IMO than the 4CS forks that came on the older models.
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Your videos are excellent. The way you talk with such passion about the sport and machines you love hits home with me and articulates the same passion I feel for dirt bikes. I'm 58 years old and ride a 2015 KTM 250 SX. When I'm riding my bike looking down the track or trail I feel like a kid again. I don't think about work, problems or anything else. I'm just in the moment on my dirt bike. It's a fantastic feeling.
Keep em coming!
+Niels Damgaard You just articulated how I (and so many others) feel. Well done sir!
+Niels Damgaard AMEN.
I couldn't agree w/ you more. I started riding KTM's w/ an '06 450 XC, shortly thereafter adding an '07 300 XCW, then switched to an '11 250 XC and now a '15 300 XC. The 300 XC is also my favorite bike ever, it's hard to find fault w/ it so far.
I really like this review. I use to be a YZ250F guy to the core but then in 2013 a friend talked me into buying a 300XC after riding his. I have never regretted it or looked back. This bike has elevated my riding ability and my enjoyment. Thanks for all your video's! They are a informative and fun to watch.
+Jamey N Very cool. Glad that you love it as much as I do.
I started on a 250 xc, beautiful bike, highly recommended
It definitely is a "do it all bike". And so is the the 250F Sixdays (same front forks and other goodies stock). Those are probably the most fun bikes to ride and the best KTM displacements at the moment. Great job on the videos, I used one of yours to help me install my torc1 factory footpegs. All I could think while were doing it was your exact words "don't let the spring beat you". It was a huge help! Thanks Kyle! :-)
My first time on a 2 stroke was amazing I just wasn't used to the power because I always would ride a 4 stroke but when I first got on it I twisted the throttle and the front end flew right up! I just really love the power of 2 strokes since then :)
God Gave us 300cc through this angel company called KTM "King of The Motorcycles" This is basically Jesus in a Dirt bike.I LOVE my 14' 300 xc, and will never go back. I have yet to stall this bike as well and i have been blown away at what jesus and god have given us. Earth, Mountains, Trails, Dirt, KTM, 300, XC, and most of all 2-Stroke!
+TJ Tharp praise the lord, amen bro. Brrraaap!
+TJ Tharp
ahah ! you made my day !
2-smokes all the way all day !!
Glad to have done that for you. when I'm having a bad day during the winter i just go sit on my bike.
Pl speak for yourself Sir KTM Sherco and husky make better 2 strokes than the KTM and Jesus might be your GOD but not everyone else in here. so don't say gave US you should say gave YOU.
hdidane00 wow, that was gay and cringy
I just got my first 2 stroke a 2013 300xc 😆 and I love it!!!
congrats!
Awesome job on the review! You almost talked me into a 300 xc instead of my 300 XC-W. Kreft Moto took care of my suspension to do exactly what you say you like about the xc suspension. If you want to really be amazed, have Adam tune your suspension! If you guys ever make it out to Grand Junction I would love to ride with you.
Rick Zwierzchowski Sounds good. Thanks for sharing.
Hey bud your channel is awesome so I just subscribed! I've seen your channel a bunch of times and seen a bunch of your reviews on various things and you know your stuff. I live in Colorado and ride in the mountains with alot of single track and have been riding a 12' Kx450f for 3yrs on the trails. While I love my bike and it's power there are definitely times when I wished I had a bike that was lighter and more versatile and could chug and lug like you've been raving about with the 300xc...I'm pretty sure you just sold me:).. Keep it up and great job!
I love this chanel!!!!
Hi
just picked my 2017 up last week - truly awesome bike
thanks for your great reviews. I just got a 2016 300 xc-w and I love it. I did a 67 mile ride after I broke it in. keep up your reviews they will help a lot of people
+Jason Maxwell Thanks for the feedback!
Thanks for sharing... Didn't know that they were that much different .My first real serious bike was a 1984 250cc MXC sounds like thats now the XC loved that bike and had a lot of success on it.
Congratulations for your video!!!! I have the same bike and I also ride at 10,000 feet altitude but my motor dosent sounds as good as yours, can you tell me your exact carburetion? Main Jet, Idle Jet, Needle, needle position and the ASO? Thank you very much!!!
I have a 40 idle jet, 160 Main jet, N2ZJ in first position and 2 ASO.
This video probably just convinced me to get one of these. good job haha.
I absolutely love my 2015 Husky TE 300! The chassis/suspension of the XC, the transmission and goodies (lights, speedo, hour meter, skid plate) of the XCW. Agreed with using second instead of first. Now and again, I'll find a use for first, but the best thing is that when I'm racing I never use first, which means I never hit neutral instead of second. The absolute best part is my bike isn't orange! KTM/Husky are putting out some phenomonal bikes!
+tek9tim Right on. Thanks for sharing!
I sold my 02 KDX 200 a couple months ago and Picked up a 2014 KTM 300 xc. It had the red spring and was way to much for tight woods riding which is what I do. I must say I put the green spring in and was able to make it very KDX like, with more power. My point is the 300 xc is amazing at being able to tune it how you like it. I am figuring out how to tune to even different weather conditions, which we have a lot of in Southern OHIO.
Christopher Sandefur Very cool. Thanks for sharing this with the group.
Dirt Bike Channel I really enjoy your channel. Keep up the good work!!!
Christopher Sandefur Thanks for your support. Keep sharing our vids with your buddies and we'll keep making them.
What do you think the recomended hight for this bike is
Thank you for technical description comparing the gearboxes of the xc vs xc-w. Very helpful.
Tim L Thanks for paying attention :)
+Dirt Bike Channel I am new to riding out west here in Utah, I grew up riding a kx 125 in the woods and rolling grass fields back in Kentucky during my high school years. Two seasons ago I got my first bike out here and it's a '03 200sx that all I have really done is set up the suspension a little softer for off-road riding, and put some more "enduro" style tires on (still has the 19" rear, with stock sprockets) and the thing loves to scream through all of the single track I have been able to find. And I can really throw the bike around "almost" like my mountain bike. :) (I particularly love most of the trails up AF Canyon) On real steep stuff I will have to feather the clutch a bit which I hate doing, but I suspect this has a lot to do with the 200 just not having enough low rpm power, and the sx 1st gear is probably a bit high. (I am about 170 without my gear) But most of the time I have really liked the speed or the tempo that comes with that higher first gear and close ratio 6 speed. I ride sometimes with a buddy who has a '14 300xc-w that I got to try once out at Knolls doing doughnuts in the flats and I really liked the low end power, but that first gear hardly seemed usable. And I do not think that his bike felt even one bit heavier than my bike. Maybe even felt lighter in some situations. (Maybe it actually is, my bike is easily 12 years old, i haven't looked up the weight or weighed my bike.) ANYWAY..........based on some of my own experiences what you are saying about the 300xc seems to really be resonating with me (and that's why I really appreciated your technical comparison of the gearboxes). I was thinking that maybe a Husky TE300 with the linkage rear suspension was maybe the way to go, but now I think I would be happier with that gearbox that comes on the KTM xc model. How much do you know about the Husqvarna models? My understanding is that they only have the one TC and the TE, and that the TE has the exact same gearbox as the xc-w.
What did you end up with? You helped me decide on the 300xc but i have always been interested in husqvarna
nice reviews mans!i really enjoy your channel,thanks for taking the time to do it!hopefully your gettin paid!!lol.im looking for a new tech 2 stroke and you got me seriously looking at a ktm...im a old track rat from a era when ktm was known as kmart trail machine!!lol..
Just picked up a 2014 300xc. I've always ridden 4-strokes and the transition to the way the bike puts the power down is strange for me. I was deciding between this bike and the 200xc (which I look forward to your review of ;) ). Great videos by the way!
+Cody Decker
everybody should start with a 2-stroke....personnaly i don't think i will ever own a 4-stroke.
when you start on a 2-stroke, the day you jump on a 4-stroke you know why most people prefer a 250 4-stroke to a 125 2-stroke.....way more easy to get the power, less clutching...a 4-stroke forgives your mistakes on a track....but a 125 makes you lose precious seconds when you make a mistake.( not in the right gear, not enough clucth and windin etc.)
but the fun is not the same with a 4-stroke that's for sure.
i've been riding a cr125 and 250sx on tracks for 8 years now and i tried my friend's yz450f and was stunned how easy it is to get the power....i was riding around the track almost always on 3rd gear without any clutching or downshifting....it is clearly something different.
Great video I’ve been torn between a new 450 or switching to a 300 two stroke you answered a lot of my questions 👍🏼
Love your reviews man so good! From British Columbia
ika6667 Thanks. Would like to ride in BC one day!
+Dirt Bike Channel great review! Just brought home a brand new 2016 300xc.Educating myself on the jetting options based on riding in Wa. state sea level to 5k feet temps 50 to 85 degrees.If a guy uses the factory settings that the owners manual has,what would be the first jetting change a guy should do for temp or elevation change?Needle setting first or change needle, or change main jet, or adjust aso setting?iSeems like messing with more than one could open a can of worms.Thanks
Excellent review. KTM is a bike I would like to own someday. It is definitely on my list and thanks again for such wonderful in depth review.
+Heartland Dual Sport Thanks for taking time to comment. This bike doesn't disappoint.
Couldn't agree more with your review! I just picked up a new leftover 2014 300xc a month ago! I love it!! You should get out to SW Missouri and come to Chadwick! Easy trails and seriously gnarly and technical trails and everything in between!
Lots of rock! It's affectionately call Chadrock by some... LOL
I bought a '15 300 XC last week and took it to the track yesterday. First new bike ever. I do not think I could of made a better choice. I like riding the track but know that I am never going to make the big leagues. Plus the bike is versatile. Glad I didn't get the 2016 after watching your videos and seeing that the changes were all cosmetic. Thanks
John Reynolds Thank you for sharing this. So you like the 300 XC on the track, right?
+Dirt Bike Channel I love it!!! In Houston we don't have many trails so most weekends we have to hit the track. I am done with the abuse I endure with a SX bike.
I'm now selling my 03' KTM 200 MXC. Everybody that calls wants an EXC. I can't convince them that this close ratio gearbox is better. In the slippery muck, I can maintain forward drive, and traction during that 1-2 gearshift much better. I am looking at a 2012 300 XC, but I have to drive far!
Sold me on the XC. I have a 2014 250 XC-W and I love it, don't get me wrong, but one thing I've always hated that you brought up was the suspension and how it wallows in the whoops. Here in SoCal you can't go 20 yards on any trail without there being motocross style whoops and having that soft of suspension, going through them one after another, for hours on end really, really beats you up. It would be nice to have some better suspension to handle stuff like that. Great review! Best one yet!
ckoford11 Oh man, you'll be better off with an XC in those types of terrain for sure! I know how you feel. We have some stuff up there that gets whooped out like that. Most of the time I don't run footage of that since tends to look so boring that I don't turn the camera on!
I’m on my second 2013 300 XC, having sold the first one at 500 hours and at that now on this one. I definitely agree about how solid of a platform this bike is: wickedly awesome, bulletproof engine on a great frame & suspension. I love showing up at races and doing awesome on the oldest bike in my (A) class. My only complaint is the bottom gearing is too tall for the steep & tight Rocky Mtn terrain we run, I gear my bikes down to 13/52 so lose in the top end. I have had a W and love the Pro Link as it tracks better in the high speed. Full wraps & Tubliss are a must where we ride. Great show, glad you see the light. Cheers! PS the JD jetting kit is worth the money
Im considereing an older but not to old xc or xcw, something like 2012 through 2016, just whatever i can get for under 5k, they are carbed arent they? How is that? Do you have to refet them alot? I heard something about a computer still conrtolling it? And they al have electronic start right? Which one would you get?
man I'm just getting into single track enduro type rides and I just wanna say thanks a lot for all this 2 stroke input and info!
making it a lot easier to make up my mind before I dump some hard earned dollars on a first bike
+Marty McFly Thanks for supporting the channel. I hope you find a great bike to enjoy.
+Dirt Bike Channel found an 09 KTM in decent shape. will need some minor replacements and love here now there but it's expected. spring can't come soon enough!
i bought a brand new 16 300xc based on your videos man. love your channel!
+derek tassie So happy for you!
Super stoked! Picking up a 2014 300 XC today!
+Mark Tegeder That is great!
Thanks!
I have an '18 300 XC with a Lectron on it, and I live in Colorado. God Damn, I am one lucky/happy MoFo... I stayed with the carb on the new bike as I know and love the Lectron, which is simpler than a toilet tank valve, and yet it works. Simple and it works - gotta love that in a carb. Sold my '13 XC-W to get the '18 XC, the counter balancer on the new engine is worth it. Oh man. So cool to rip without my hands going numb. The e-start is way better than my '13 bike's also.
Agree about the gearing. The off idle grunt on the 300 is such that 1st was a little low on the XC-W in the kind of rocks and stuff shown in the video. I ride gnarly trails like you do, for that stuff the 2T rules. Put a Trail Tech fan on it and the 2T will never overheat, ever. Finally, the 2T just has a fun personality for hard core trail riding.
Cool video!
Great video with great comments and knowledge of the sport. I'm looking to get back into desert / single trail track riding. Last bike I owned was an 04 300XC. Vibration on the footpegs was unreal..so much I had to sell it. Drove me crazy! What would you say is the best years for buying used as far as quality built and low / no vibration?
Love the videos. Learning from these videos abut the ktm. I am fixing to buy a new one. Can’t decide between the 2019 XC with the carb or the 2020 with the tpi ....in your personal opinion , which would you go with? I am thinking of getting the 2019 with carb and electric start. Help me decide. Lol,,,not a new rider ...been riding for years, harescrambles are my favorite.....thanks for your input.. stay safe .
Great job on the review man, thanks for all your videos and input!!
Jody Tucker Thanks Jody!
+Dirt Bike Channel jhf
I have the same thoughts exactly on the 300xc. The geometry is slightly different between the xc and the w. Wheelbase, seat height, ground clearance, etc. The xc is a bit more stretched out with a little less rear travel giving the xc more rake. That, mixed with the linkage suspension and gearing differences produce a formidable and versatile dirt bike IMO. I love mine too man. :) I enjoyed the review and like most of the ones you give it has a very organic quality.
Kory Y Thanks for the feedback. I don't have any agendas, just offering opinions.
Yeah the same here just my own opinion. I will say though that before I bought mine your reviews helped solidify my decision.
Kory Y Glad that I could help out in some way. At this point, knowing that I'm helping people is the only real payoff I'm getting for all the work of putting this content out.
Keep up the good work, I appreciate it!
Hmm the XC has more rake? That is interesting as I prefer dirt bikes with longer wheel base and forks angle that make wheel stick out more in front of you. Best bike I ever had was a 1983 KX 125 with suspencion and forks from a Suzuki RM 125 giving it a front fork that was longer giving it longer wheel base with front wheel more in front of you.
Well, I've been trying to decide whether to get a 250 or 300 XC/XC-W, but now I know to get a 300XC-W for the riding I expect to do and for my skill level. Super helpful.
Glad to have helped!
Great review! I really enjoy all your videos. Will you please do one on the new 500 exc and the 350 exc.
Kelsey Mackay You must be in Australia, right? I have to buy the bikes that are interesting to me, so that rules out the 350 EXC at this point (would be the 350 XCF-W here in the US). It's too close the the 350 XC-F that I have already reviewed. The 500 XC-W (EXC in your neck of the woods) is still interesting to me. Just have to find a good deal on one when I only have one other bike in the garage.
Dirt Bike Channel Thanks for getting back. I totally understand. keep up the awesome videos man.
if the 300 two-stroke is good enough for Jarvis and the boys then mere mortals will do just fine on it..
Great review...have you felt the need for a linkage guard or do you feel that's superfluous...I tried the Tubliss system on front and rear and switched back after too much grief....overall a great bike
+Scott Palmer I should probably get a guard down there, but I've been too lazy. Sorry you didn't have a good experience with the TuBliss. I love the TuBliss so much, I don't like riding a bike without it.
I love the bulletproof radiator gaurds, they are the best out there, bar none!
Great looking Bike. I rode my buddies 2013 ktm 300 with Rekluse clutch which is a very nice bike. Have you compared the KTM 300 XC to a TM Racing 300 Enduro bike? I have a 99 TM racing 300 with hydraulic clutch. The bike is a beast and loads of power. I was just curious if you have done any comparisons to the TM racing Brands.
Nice rig you got there. I ride a 2013 Husaberg TE 250 (2T) and I absolutely love my bike. Most of my buddies are on 500 KTM's (4T) and we always run neck and neck, however I use half the energy they use. We ride Enduro hard trails around 50/70 miles here in CA. Problem is i might be forced to sell as parts are getting hard to find since KTM discontinued the Berg. I'm now looking at 250 XC-W, Beta or GasGas. Cheers.
The parts are pretty much the same as the KTM. Other than plastics most of what you are looking for should have a KTM part number. If you're not sure then cross reference the part numbers.
Got the same bike with the same pipe and exhaust, ur sayings all true 😎😎
Nice bike and great channel. How Many hours have you done on the original top end?
+codeman I only have about 50 on this bike. I've done as many as 125 on these before doing a top end.
Hi Kyle, Finaly I am about to break it! I am going and viewing an EXC 300 Six Days 2014! Is the bike in this video same year, and have you had 2014 and what advice can you give me?
Thank you Kyle, looking forward to buying my first stroker!!!!!! WOWwwww, this feels exciting!
I got a 200 exc for my first bigger bike and i think it was a great choise
greetings from Austria
Kyle. I'll have to take you on the Ramey Five Mile loop in central Idaho. You go 15 miles in 8 hours and you will be wanting the XCW instead.
My sx 250 was stolen a week ago and you almost had me sold on getting the xc-w until I have seen this review. Which to buy...
So true. 2nd gear is my first gear on my XCW!
+Mark Holing It really helps.
First off, love the channel! Especially since I moved from NJ to Salt Lake City about a year ago and love seeing some of the Utah terrain in your videos! Can't wait to go back to a 2 stroke. Really tired of my heavy 2002 400 MXC. Thinking that when I can I'm going either with the 300 XC or W or perphaps a 250 if I can find a good deal on one.
Mark Tegeder Good plan, and welcome to Utah!
Thanks!
so I sold my 350 xcfw and got a 2016 300xc. I really like it. I'm not sure I like it better than the 350 mostly because I do ride sand as well quite often and it doesn't do as well out there. I was wondering if you would mind telling me where that trail is where you went past that little wood gard rail
I just picked up an 09 300 xc coming off an 08 wr450f that is dialed, would love to ask you some questions about the bike and tips on adjusting to riding a two stroke. After ripping it around the block and finding where the power band kicks in, i have the fear of god in me. Way different then a 4 stroke and kinda intimidating.
How much has this bike changed over the last 10 years? Im aware of the easy answer, alot of course, but there is an 08 near me for a decent price with upgrades and in great condition. Just curious if they were just as good back then.. Cheers and thanks for the great content!
Hi! I have never ridden bikes but I found one of these at a good price. I am athletic and good with my motor skills. Could I learn on this bike?
Nice videos! Always keen for the next one! I'm looking for a new pipe for my 2015 TE300 Husky, and I'm keen to know why you went for the PC Platinum 2 front and FMF Turbinecore2 Tip. Keep up the awesome work :)
Gary Larkan I have used both the PC pipe and the FMF on a few bikes now. I like the power of the PC a little better, but I like the look of the FMF pipe. Either way, you go on the header, I don't like the PC silencer. It's huge and ugly. The FMF silencer (power core 2) is super sweet and is good looking (small). If you are on a budget, you'll get better bang for the buck with just the FMF silencer and your stock header pipe.
Dirt Bike Channel Awesome, thanks for taking the time to answer me. Keen to throw a similar setup (PC Header, FMF Tail) onto my Husky. I am just concerned about the top end with these header pipes. Any comments your side?
Excellent video!! Thank you. I ride a 2008 300XC & love it for many of the reasons you said. Simple to cruise gently yet mean enough to shred GNCC races or whatever I throw at it. Split personality disorder perhaps.
+Michael S. Dembesky Good call. Split personality it a good way!
The 300s are good bikes, ride with a lot of them (KTM, GasGas and Betas). They're good, but can't out grunt the Maico :)
Maico? holy crap! Dont they have a 700 maico 2t, I have a 300xc and a cr500 snowbike and im afraid to put the tire on the 500. The 300 is plenty to do anything I could ever imagine... Maico 700... had to throw that one in there. Quick question for ya, have you ever had to replace the front tire?? LOL
Haha, not yet. Ya, they make a 700. I have a range though, 440, 490, 500, 620, 660 and 700 so I can choose what I want to ride on any day.
Great job.
What is maintenance/rebuild intervals?
Not referring to the book that is. Just interested how many hours you get out of them?
Thanx mate :)
TobyA319 I go about 125-135 hours before changing a piston on these bikes. I have not experienced any power loss even at that point. I just figure that is a good time to do it.
How reliable is it? And how often do you have to oil change it?
Nice vids man
liam oconnor Xhange the oil? Huh? You should read up on dirtbikes and 2 strokes.
Good hare scramble bikes. Very good bottom end power and they can be be revved so low without stalling. Makes going over big rough rocks that almost make you stop much easier because it won't cut off. 4 strokes won't rev as low without trying to cut off.
+ShakeyShad All true, and all good points.
I think the headlight makes them look alot better and even the taillight doesn't look bad at all
What is the elastic band going across your radiator?
I've seen if before and heard it was for brush or something.
You should take a trip to FL! Completely different terrain!
I just bought a 16' 300 xc
Enjoy your videos, thanks!
+Tyler27B It's the strap to keep the plastic radiator guards on the bike rather than using the bolts. Just makes it a bit easier when using the radiator guards I'm running. You liking the 300 XC?
Yeah I love mine. I race Hare Scrambles in FL and just upgraded from an 09 300 xc. So glad KTM keeps 2 strokes around! Like you said the 300 can be the gnarliest bike to have or can also be the tamest. My dad also has a 300 xc and has the rekluse in it. Enjoy your videos! keep them coming!
Hey, love your videos and reviews! Which bike would you say has more low end power, the XC or XC-W? I'm looking for a bike that has a tractor pull, but also a lot of versatility, so I'm leaning towards the XC. You said on one of your recent vids that would are thinking of getting a Beta 300rr, and I would love to see a comparison between the KTM and Beta.
+Mat Ormaza Both of them have really good low end power. It's the same motor after all. They have slightly different ignition curves, but it's not super noticeable. The main thing is that the XC-W's have a lower first and second gear compared to the other KTMs.
Not questioning your decisions at all great videos great Channel. But when it comes to suspension why not just have your local suspension shop build your suspension for what you want? That's what we all do anyways well with Motocross. Question 2 with the xc-w make a decent dual purpose bike of the KTM lineup compared to the heavy maintenance for strokes?
Referring to the 300 2 Strokes. Versus say the 350 4 stroke. 30% Street 70% Trail , I live in the Northeast we don't have the wide-open trails that you guys do.
Also should probably mention older, 6 foot 225lb novice with 30 years of riding LOL
I did a 2016 ktm ride day today , rode the 300xc and exc , found the front end really unstable on both bikes and the front wheel felt like it wanted to depart the bike mid corner , also the power really good down low , but when it gets into powerband its far to brutal and then there is nothing up the top , over all not that impressed, i could see them as a good bike for really tight riding where you dont need to enter the brutal powerband ,, also rode the 250 xc man what a great bike chassis was much better , front end was more stable there was power down low and then it had a really progressive powerband all the way to the upper revs , and rode the 200 xcw do not count out the baby bike , so much fun , light great chassis had enough power to do everything i was doing ,, final bike has to be the 250xc then the 200 followed by the 300 exc and 300xc
+Ryan s Those complaints you had between the handling of the 250 vs the 300 come down to setup. Those bikes share 95 percent of the same parts. ALL of the suspension and frame on the 250 and the 300 are the same. You can set them both up to be great for your riding style.
yes you are right , was also thinking how they had the 300 powervalve spring set , was reading about the dark green spring smoothing out the hit , thats what the 300 needed ,
Haven’t ridden since high school 20 years ago. Thinking about picking up a 2011 300 XC. Not technically my first bike but is this a good bike to get back into the sport? Never owned a two-stroke. Sounds like the W might be better but I can’t find one right now
Thanks for the review. In comparing the suspension between your XC and XC-W, you made no mention of any modifications so I assume you are using stock springs and have not altered valving on either? What year is each bike? Very mixed reviews of the 4CS forks! Also, did you consider a Husky TE 300? That's basically an XC with an XC-W motor (and gearbox) and slightly softer suspension valving. Linkage shock and 4CS forks though. I'm looking for a 250 to race next season and am debating the two. The XC gearing makes more sense to me (as I have been racing a 200 XC-W and do not use 1st gear for the reasons you mentioned) but the TE would offer a bit more plush setup for the gnarly stuff. I ride in Co where it is not too different from your terrain I would think. I wonder if it would handle practice on the MX track as well as the XC though, I'm sure it wouldn't - not a priority though. Man it's not an easy decision! Thanks a lot for your reviews though, this one helped especially.
+MultiBadBass I have had 2 XC-Ws (2012 and 2014) and 2 XCs (2014 and 2015). One of the XCs was a 350 XC-F and the other is the 300 XC. I now prefer the XC line with the taller gears and the stiffer forks. I think the stock suspension on the XC (4CS) is fine. I'm not sure what everyone is complaining about! I'm having my forks and shock re-valved by Stillwell Performance, as we speak, just to see what all the fuss is about. I'll have to see how that goes. I like the Husky TE's, but my reservation is that I think they use the same gearing as the KTM XC-W. That would be a step in the wrong direction for me. I'd actually like to own a 200 XC-W for some of the tight woods we do. I think it would be a fun bike. I've ridden the 250 XC a fair amount and I like it. Not as much low end grunt as the 300 so I stick with my 300s.
+Dirt Bike Channel Yeah that's my thinking too, I would take the TE if it had the XC gearing - it's always cool to have something a little different, I am also a long time Saab owner lol. It would be veru interesting and helpful for you to do a quick stock vs. Stillwell suspension review once you get it back together, this might clear up a lot of confusion about the 4CS forks and would get a lot of interest I bet. Not sure why they get such a bad wrap when some people love them. Maybe it's the stigma from back when they first came out? Seems like you think the forks were plush enough on the tight rocky stuff, which is my main concern when going stiffer, when a lot of people say they are harsh in the initial stroke and then blow through and bottom out. I'm sure you've heard about that! Where are you in Utah? I may be taking a riding trip out there later this month and you are more than welcome to come take a ride on the 200.
keep up the great work!
looking forward to graduating college and being able to afford a ktm 300, getting by on the old kdx200 for now
NM Desertadventure As long are you are riding!
Im even more interested in this one now. I have the opportunity to grab a 2009 xc for 3k. Its clean, and runs well. Think that price is good too?
I realize this is old video but gonna try anyway.. I’ve been searching for several months for a bike for trail/enduro riding and there are a lot of good ones out there! However, my problem is I’m bigger than the average rider. I’m 6’5” 240lbs. A friend of mine who rides a crf told me this would be a good fit. Basically just wondering if you agree? I’ve been riding street and dirt for a long time have just been out of dirt bike riding 5 years or so and getting back to it..
That bike is such a great bike
Jonas Lack Do you have one too?
Nope I am just a 12 year old kid you rides a YZ 85 and my friend next door has the 2015 ktm 300 six days that bike is nice too. KTM is a great company overall.
+Dirt Bike Channel how much are they?
This is convincing, probebly my next move. I love my TE250 '15, but it does not have the down low tractor pull of my KX450F. 300 2 stroke seems the way to go. With a Rekluse it should be unstoppable! I can fall of my bike at wathever speed and it won't stall, ever!
+mark grenon I love the 300 and have been riding these bikes for 3.5 years now. I honestly don't think a rekluse is needed with these two strokes. I feel like that cheapens it somehow... I can see the need for one on a 450 though. I have a 450 that I'm testing again right now and I'm tempted to put a Rekluse on there, but It's a $1000 upgrade. Probably not worth it to me.
thank you for the great Video, subscribed!
This is exactly the information I needed but I'm still on the fence between the 300 xc and 300 xc-w. I'm on a klx450-r now and the weight is a big hindrance in the more technical stuff. You are right on about using a higher gear in loose or sandy stuff. That has helped my riding a lot. There is an advantage to having a "plated" bike where I ride. The "w" has partial lighting. Is there an advantage in that for adding a street legal kit?
It you are going to ride on the road a lot, I wouldn't recommend a 2 stroke. If it's just for short transfers and such, then the 2 strokes are fine. The XC-W would be easier to convert to street because of the lights that come stock.
I should have been more to the point with my question. Does the "W" have a stronger lighting or charging coil for running the street legal kit accessories? It's almost imperative to have a plated bike in the Tri-state area of Utah, Arizona, and Nevada. The county dirt roads sometimes require them. You could be out trailing with off-road tags and then jump on a dirt road to get back and be in violation. It just gives a little more peace of mind.
That xc shock linkage on the bottom is a down side going over that log lol
Im stuck between the KTM 300 XC-W and the 500 EXC.. I want to ride on the street and the dirt as well.. Im a big guy over 300#s but not to competitive just love to ride.. I love the ease of maintenance of the 2 stroke so that Is my my preference. but the 500 exc looks great too..
any thoughts on the matter?
how does the W enduro compare to the Husky and sherco that's what we want to know. comparison video pls.
Nice machine! Would like to see oil injection like the Beta 300rr to make it run a little cleaner and future 300 it have less vibration! 250 xc at this time are just as fast!
I have a ktm 250sx 2018 now. But thinking about buying a ktm 300xc 2016 with 30 hours on it. And sell my 250sx what is your thoughts on it ? I enjoy trail rides. But also like to open it up as well
OK...that Pro Circuit pipe looks sexy as hell on that bike! Thinking of going with a Scalvini cone-by-cone style pipe next on my 300.
Nathan Adams Yeah, it's a nice touch.
Is this bike worth getting if sometimes you just want to put around the trails. Sometimes I like to go riding with quads and sxs. And can’t stay on the pipe
Hey, I would like your honest opinion on something, I’ve had 3 KTM dirt bikes, 530exc and 500exc, I’ve had cr250 and 2 CRF450R. Been 2 years without one one and looking to buy one soon but I’m looking to buy the best wide open trail dirt bike out there, I’ve never tried the KTM 300XCW. In your opinion which one between the 300XCW and the 500exc/xcw is the most powerful and would be the best for fast trail ridding( not the technical stuff single track your doing)? Thx for your time.
so what you are telling me is that i shouldnt buy this bike
Exactly :)
Great video !!
Hey mate have you ridden hasqvarna fc 250 and if you have what do u think off them
Does the XC-w have a lighting coil? Can you just add a headlight,or does the stator need to be modified?
Hi good morning……. I have a question answered…. My bike is very hard to start…. But when it does start lots and lots of smoke comes out…. And then it bogs down… and help would help out…. Thanks…
David
Do the XC’s come stock with a lighting coil that CAN run a headlight? Or do you have to install an xcw stator?
Your channel is amazing
What about hill climbs? Would the XC or the W be the better of the two for fast hills and slow technical hills?
Great bike for sure,nice build! I got the suspension redone by RG3 on my '12 factory edition and it transformed the bike.I can go slow or fast,off road or track.You gotta be in shape to ride the 60hp beast for the whole day, but its very stisfying .I think Im gonna try a 300 next,not selling sell my 450 tho haha
E46MRider Very cool. I'm looking for a 450 to do some testing with.
If I was in AZ we could have swapped bikes...
The reason the European enduro style riders use a PDS style shock is that you can NOT bend it, tear it off, or hit it on obstacles.
Great video once again, looks like this is more like my 2015 te300 minus the subframe and gearing.
+Obed M. Pretty good assessment. This bike will be higher geared than your husky.
Just rode my 300EXC today. Was very much fun. :) Only thing I dont like about it so much is the front suspension. Feels too hard/bouncy for me. Takes jumps(landings) nicely though. Probably nothing wrong with the forks, just the adjustment, cant seem to get it right. Rode my friends Beta400RR and damn the forks in that were nice and almost felt like soft. I didnt accidentally bite my tongue while riding that one. :D
Narza85 But im taking them to a local "suspension wizard" (ex race rider, does mainly offroad bikes and snowmobiles). He'll sort them out for me.
Is the electric starter issues fixed on the 2016 models? Or do you have to get the "new" style starter design (no 90 degree angle gear)?
Damn man im hype just bought a 2022 300 xc
This bike or the 250xc getting back into riding bikes? Like the looks of xc better than the xcw