'18 KTM 250SX or YZ250 Which one to drag home?

dedi684
Profile picture for user dedi684
Posts
1355
Joined
8/21/2009
Location
Ravena, NY US
dedi684 10/2/2017 6:21pm
10/2/2017 6:21pm
cwtoyota wrote:
Well, your profile photo looks like a Suzuki, so should I guess that you sold both?

dirtywardog wrote:
hah good catch - thats a even older pic then the yz - but get the KTM - the yz does work very well but its...
hah good catch - thats a even older pic then the yz - but get the KTM - the yz does work very well but its front end liked to wash out comming into corners on me
cwtoyota wrote:
Hah. I was just kidding you around since I had no idea which bike you kept. I don't feel that front end push with the YZ...
Hah. I was just kidding you around since I had no idea which bike you kept.

I don't feel that front end push with the YZ two strokes, but I think it's a riding style and setup thing. I tend to move around a lot, and spend a lot of time pretty far forward on the YZ250. I also run the forks up at 5mm in the clamps and run a very stiff fork with some different valving. On my old 2002 and on my 2010 model I feel like I can turn underneath almost anyone whenever I need to. Every KTM I've ridden since about 2012 has handled at least as good as the YZ two strokes.

Speaking of turning underneath other racers, the KTM has way better brakes. I run the big galfer rotors on all of my YZ's and that brings them up to snuff, but stock they aren't amazing like those Brembos.

So true! I've had 5 yz 250s and the front wants to wash way too often enough that it hinders my speed. If I move forward just a bit it seems to disappear. My style sucks so I struggle.
Beeler341
Profile picture for user Beeler341
Posts
177
Joined
12/18/2009
Location
Knoxville, TN US
Beeler341 10/2/2017 6:59pm
10/2/2017 6:59pm
I've got a 17 250SX if you're interested. Very low hours. Located in Knoxville TN.
kiwifan
Profile picture for user kiwifan
Posts
9485
Joined
10/31/2009
Location
CA US
kiwifan 10/2/2017 7:27pm
10/2/2017 7:27pm
BobPA wrote:
You may not even want the 300 kit, The 250 pulls well down low.
My thoughts exactly...also why limit yourself to those two bikes, I prefer the TC250 over the SX250 Smile

The Shop

See All »
Steadman
Profile picture for user Steadman
Posts
680
Joined
11/23/2014
Location
CA
Steadman 10/2/2017 8:26pm
10/2/2017 8:26pm
Whymee wrote:
Guys, I have tried to climb on the 4T band wagon. This 57 year old just can not seem to gel with a four stroke. So...
Guys,

I have tried to climb on the 4T band wagon. This 57 year old just can not seem to gel with a four stroke. So I am going to sell my 17 YZ250F with 2.5 hrs. on it and buy a 18 YZ or KTM 250. I would consider a Husky, as I do prefer a white bike, but I have no husky dealer remotely close to me.

I know what I am getting with a Yamaha. I have a cherry 07 with around 8 hours on it. I do not have a clue what I am getting with a Katoom other than it is ALOT of orange. I have read a few tests of the 17 250sx. Something like the top ends were close but the midrange favored the KTM by 4 or 5 hp. That is alot to overcome with a YZ.

SO I ask the collective knowledge of Vital, has anyone have experience with these 2 machines (17's I suppose)? How is the ergos with the KTM? Last time I rode one was in the 80's & it was like trying to ride a step ladder/saw horse (take your pick). On paper I feel I would be silly not to pick up the Katoom. But I am leary, REAL leary...

Sway me one way or another, please.

Thanks in advance.

Stan
Depending on your ability and what kind of tracks you ride have you considered the 'XC' version from KTM? Smoother motor and suspension that is a little more user friendly for the average user (non pro abilities) I believe a lot of people miss the boat on those models.
I've never real gelled with KTM's and the way they feel, that is until the latest generation. Ergonomically they feel great and handle very, very well. I'm a big fan now.
6' 175lb Vet B/C rider.
seth505
Profile picture for user seth505
Posts
9375
Joined
4/1/2008
Location
SD, CA US
Fantasy
1271st
seth505 10/2/2017 8:32pm
10/2/2017 8:32pm
BobPA wrote:
You may not even want the 300 kit, The 250 pulls well down low.
Agreed, no reason to put another $800 or so into the new Husky or KTM without riding it and realizing it pulls pretty awesome off the bottom.
Fearo
Profile picture for user Fearo
Posts
1383
Joined
12/17/2009
Location
BE
Fearo 10/2/2017 8:47pm
10/2/2017 8:47pm Edited Date/Time 10/2/2017 8:48pm
No question, SX 250 all the way. I'm on my 3rd one and my 2018 is the best bike I've ever ridden. The Yamaha could hold its own to the pre-2017 KTMs because of its superb suspension but the newest KTMs stomp all over the YZ. I was also dead set on hating the air suspension (I do in fact hate the concept) but my god it's the best suspension I've ever had and I haven't yet touched a clicker.

But if there's one thing that should convince you its the bottom end power. I always took it for granted until I rode a YZ a few weeks ago, which has virtually no low en compared to the KTM. On my bike I will never ever shift down to 2nd gear. I can do a 180 turn at 5mph in 3rd gear with just a slight feathering of the clutch and the bike will start pulling instantly.
Motofinne
Profile picture for user Motofinne
Posts
10691
Joined
1/4/2014
Location
FI
Motofinne 10/2/2017 9:29pm
10/2/2017 9:29pm Edited Date/Time 10/2/2017 10:38pm
I understand the hesitation of buying a bike you've never ridden but believe me, like Fearo says. The 2018 SX 250 is maybe the best bike i have ever been on. This bike is one of very few i would recommend to someone without even trying it before buying it.

I can't see how anyone wouldn't be happy after buying one!
Motofinne
Profile picture for user Motofinne
Posts
10691
Joined
1/4/2014
Location
FI
Motofinne 10/2/2017 9:54pm
10/2/2017 9:54pm
TriRacer27 wrote:
If you don't like the all orange look, get the SX250 and this: https://www.ktm-parts.com/2421061415.html [img]https://www.ktm-parts.com/mm5/graphics/00000001/2421061415B_540x349.jpg[/img]
If you don't like the all orange look, get the SX250 and this:

https://www.ktm-parts.com/2421061415.html

Is that plastic set still available? I thought it was an extremely limited batch?

I have to look into if i could get my hands on a set somewhere.
Whymee
Profile picture for user Whymee
Posts
566
Joined
12/17/2009
Location
WV US
Whymee 10/3/2017 1:46am
10/3/2017 1:46am
Looks like the plastic set is still available.

I cannot find the graphics kit anywhere with the Red Bull logo.
Motofinne
Profile picture for user Motofinne
Posts
10691
Joined
1/4/2014
Location
FI
Motofinne 10/3/2017 3:50am
10/3/2017 3:50am Edited Date/Time 10/3/2017 3:56am
This is a bit off topic but i actually found a set of the TLD plastics in UK on eBay! I ordered it instantly, 200€ shipped.

Now i just need to find the graphics.

Anyways, back on topic. Get the SX 250. Better engine, better brakes, better clutch(i like the hydro clutch), better turning. The only part that the YZ wins on is the forks but not by much.
jeffro667
Profile picture for user jeffro667
Posts
352
Joined
12/8/2015
Location
Jackson, OH US
Fantasy
3599th
jeffro667 10/3/2017 4:06am
10/3/2017 4:06am
There is a ktm demo day at crow canyon in urichsville ohio on October 21st, ride them all, and see what you think.
Whymee
Profile picture for user Whymee
Posts
566
Joined
12/17/2009
Location
WV US
Whymee 10/3/2017 7:46am
10/3/2017 7:46am Edited Date/Time 10/3/2017 7:52am
jeffro667 wrote:
There is a ktm demo day at crow canyon in urichsville ohio on October 21st, ride them all, and see what you think.
Excellent find my man!

My local dealer confirmed this ride day. 21 & 22 of October. Plus you get a coupon for 500 bux off your purchase!
I have suspended my purchase until I ride me some KTM's!

And the TLC McQueen kit will be in stock the first part of November at Rocky Mountain. All of this just may fall into place quite nicely.

I see where N-Style has the graphics kit, without the Red Bull logo though. Real bummer. If someone finds the kit with it, please post. Although I bet a dollar to a doughnut it won't be found. On second thought I think I will call N-Style & bend their ear.

Thanks for the comments men. Appreciate it!
captmoto
Profile picture for user captmoto
Posts
5153
Joined
4/22/2009
Location
Rancho Cucamonga, CA US
captmoto 10/3/2017 7:49am
10/3/2017 7:49am
Whymee wrote:
Is that 300 kit a KTM factory part? This is getting interesting! I wonder what the power characteristics are of the 300? More every where with...
Is that 300 kit a KTM factory part? This is getting interesting!

I wonder what the power characteristics are of the 300? More every where with less top end? (guessing).
Here is a little bit of what MXA has to say from a couple years ago. It sounds like a killer 2 stroke.
https://motocrossactionmag.com/we-ride-dicks-racings-ktm-300sx-two-stro…
Motofinne
Profile picture for user Motofinne
Posts
10691
Joined
1/4/2014
Location
FI
Motofinne 10/3/2017 8:05am
10/3/2017 8:05am
jeffro667 wrote:
There is a ktm demo day at crow canyon in urichsville ohio on October 21st, ride them all, and see what you think.
Whymee wrote:
Excellent find my man! My local dealer confirmed this ride day. 21 & 22 of October. Plus you get a coupon for 500 bux off your...
Excellent find my man!

My local dealer confirmed this ride day. 21 & 22 of October. Plus you get a coupon for 500 bux off your purchase!
I have suspended my purchase until I ride me some KTM's!

And the TLC McQueen kit will be in stock the first part of November at Rocky Mountain. All of this just may fall into place quite nicely.

I see where N-Style has the graphics kit, without the Red Bull logo though. Real bummer. If someone finds the kit with it, please post. Although I bet a dollar to a doughnut it won't be found. On second thought I think I will call N-Style & bend their ear.

Thanks for the comments men. Appreciate it!
I actually found the graphics for it with the Red Bull logo on ebay!

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/KTM-SX-SXF-2016-2018-Troy-Lee-Designs-TLD-USA…
walent215
Profile picture for user walent215
Posts
2417
Joined
12/6/2014
Location
Ridgecrest, CA US
walent215 10/3/2017 8:21am
10/3/2017 8:21am
Curious if the 17 and 18 ktm 250sx are basically the same or has there been any revisions? Tia.
seth505
Profile picture for user seth505
Posts
9375
Joined
4/1/2008
Location
SD, CA US
Fantasy
1271st
seth505 10/3/2017 8:24am
10/3/2017 8:24am
walent215 wrote:
Curious if the 17 and 18 ktm 250sx are basically the same or has there been any revisions? Tia.
Basically the same bike
victor16
Profile picture for user victor16
Posts
104
Joined
2/2/2013
Location
Gainesville, FL US
victor16 10/3/2017 8:49am
10/3/2017 8:49am
-MAVERICK- wrote:
Well if you already have an '07 why get a 2018? They're practically the same. If you want just get the parts needed to make it...
Well if you already have an '07 why get a 2018? They're practically the same. If you want just get the parts needed to make it look like an '18.

Keep the YZ 250 and get the '18 KTM 250sx and have the best of both worlds.

That's what I would do.

Edit: Forgot to mention. Get the 300 kit with the SX that way you'll essentially have 3 bikes.
What he said Smile

Pit Row

See All »
Markee
Profile picture for user Markee
Posts
3544
Joined
4/15/2013
Location
Suffolk, VA US
Fantasy
1941st
Markee 10/3/2017 11:16am
10/3/2017 11:16am
KTM 250sx. Nobody has mentioned the counter balancer. It makes the ride so smooth.

I do believe the 2018 comes with the handlebar map switch. It can be purchased separately as well if you want it on a 17.
walent215
Profile picture for user walent215
Posts
2417
Joined
12/6/2014
Location
Ridgecrest, CA US
walent215 10/3/2017 11:26am
10/3/2017 11:26am
walent215 wrote:
Curious if the 17 and 18 ktm 250sx are basically the same or has there been any revisions? Tia.
seth505 wrote:
Basically the same bike
Thanks!
walent215
Profile picture for user walent215
Posts
2417
Joined
12/6/2014
Location
Ridgecrest, CA US
walent215 10/3/2017 11:26am
10/3/2017 11:26am
Markee wrote:
KTM 250sx. Nobody has mentioned the counter balancer. It makes the ride so smooth. I do believe the 2018 comes with the handlebar map switch. It...
KTM 250sx. Nobody has mentioned the counter balancer. It makes the ride so smooth.

I do believe the 2018 comes with the handlebar map switch. It can be purchased separately as well if you want it on a 17.
Thanks
TriRacer27
Profile picture for user TriRacer27
Posts
5449
Joined
2/7/2009
Location
Dallas, TX US
Fantasy
44th
TriRacer27 10/3/2017 1:54pm
10/3/2017 1:54pm
jeffro667 wrote:
There is a ktm demo day at crow canyon in urichsville ohio on October 21st, ride them all, and see what you think.
Whymee wrote:
Excellent find my man! My local dealer confirmed this ride day. 21 & 22 of October. Plus you get a coupon for 500 bux off your...
Excellent find my man!

My local dealer confirmed this ride day. 21 & 22 of October. Plus you get a coupon for 500 bux off your purchase!
I have suspended my purchase until I ride me some KTM's!

And the TLC McQueen kit will be in stock the first part of November at Rocky Mountain. All of this just may fall into place quite nicely.

I see where N-Style has the graphics kit, without the Red Bull logo though. Real bummer. If someone finds the kit with it, please post. Although I bet a dollar to a doughnut it won't be found. On second thought I think I will call N-Style & bend their ear.

Thanks for the comments men. Appreciate it!
Motofinne wrote:
I actually found the graphics for it with the Red Bull logo on ebay!

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/KTM-SX-SXF-2016-2018-Troy-Lee-Designs-TLD-USA…
Good find.

Post a pic of your bike once you've got her done.
RangerLee
Profile picture for user RangerLee
Posts
927
Joined
7/23/2013
Location
Spring City, PA US
RangerLee 10/3/2017 2:42pm
10/3/2017 2:42pm
Considering that Yamaha is not really updating their 2 strokes, people have already pointed out that your 07 is practically an '18.

KTM is keeping up the business with 2 strokes, so you are getting an improved bike.
Motofinne
Profile picture for user Motofinne
Posts
10691
Joined
1/4/2014
Location
FI
Motofinne 10/3/2017 2:42pm
10/3/2017 2:42pm
Whymee wrote:
Excellent find my man! My local dealer confirmed this ride day. 21 & 22 of October. Plus you get a coupon for 500 bux off your...
Excellent find my man!

My local dealer confirmed this ride day. 21 & 22 of October. Plus you get a coupon for 500 bux off your purchase!
I have suspended my purchase until I ride me some KTM's!

And the TLC McQueen kit will be in stock the first part of November at Rocky Mountain. All of this just may fall into place quite nicely.

I see where N-Style has the graphics kit, without the Red Bull logo though. Real bummer. If someone finds the kit with it, please post. Although I bet a dollar to a doughnut it won't be found. On second thought I think I will call N-Style & bend their ear.

Thanks for the comments men. Appreciate it!
Motofinne wrote:
I actually found the graphics for it with the Red Bull logo on ebay!

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/KTM-SX-SXF-2016-2018-Troy-Lee-Designs-TLD-USA…
TriRacer27 wrote:
Good find.

Post a pic of your bike once you've got her done.
Yeah well i have no idea how good the light blue color matches the plastics.

Maybe Carlino could tell us where he got his set?
Whymee
Profile picture for user Whymee
Posts
566
Joined
12/17/2009
Location
WV US
Whymee 10/3/2017 4:36pm
10/3/2017 4:36pm
Just got off the horn to N-Style. They say no one is allowed to use the Red Bull logo other than team members. Also said that any other graphics kit out there that has it are pirating the logo.

N-Style will print your number and I am assuming background color, with their kit.

I see other kits out there on EGay that has the Red Bull logo in their kits. No numbers and a black background only.

Just what I have found so far.
CarlinoJoeVideo
Profile picture for user CarlinoJoeVideo
Posts
7358
Joined
11/30/2013
Location
Portland/Los Angeles, CA US
Fantasy
2361st
CarlinoJoeVideo 10/3/2017 5:42pm
10/3/2017 5:42pm
Motofinne wrote:
I actually found the graphics for it with the Red Bull logo on ebay!

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/KTM-SX-SXF-2016-2018-Troy-Lee-Designs-TLD-USA…
TriRacer27 wrote:
Good find.

Post a pic of your bike once you've got her done.
Motofinne wrote:
Yeah well i have no idea how good the light blue color matches the plastics.

Maybe Carlino could tell us where he got his set?
Give the guys at http://trinitygfx.com a call, they can help you. Whistling


I also so this kit that D'cor did for Destin Cantrell


chrisr22
Profile picture for user chrisr22
Posts
56
Joined
2/5/2015
Location
Mountain Home, AR US
chrisr22 10/3/2017 7:29pm
10/3/2017 7:29pm
Mines an F model but you can make the ugly orange go away with about 300 bucks!

dedi684
Profile picture for user dedi684
Posts
1355
Joined
8/21/2009
Location
Ravena, NY US
dedi684 10/3/2017 8:30pm
10/3/2017 8:30pm
A simple observation. I notice a large number of yz 250's racing especially in the b classes and I also race one as well and have for many years. It appears to me the yz is more popular although I believe ktm is the better choice.
seth505
Profile picture for user seth505
Posts
9375
Joined
4/1/2008
Location
SD, CA US
Fantasy
1271st
seth505 10/3/2017 9:55pm
10/3/2017 9:55pm
dedi684 wrote:
A simple observation. I notice a large number of yz 250's racing especially in the b classes and I also race one as well and have...
A simple observation. I notice a large number of yz 250's racing especially in the b classes and I also race one as well and have for many years. It appears to me the yz is more popular although I believe ktm is the better choice.
The yz does look the same for 13 years in a row tho, other than if you notice the newer airbox.
chump6784
Profile picture for user chump6784
Posts
1692
Joined
5/9/2011
Location
AU
chump6784 10/4/2017 12:05am
10/4/2017 12:05am
dedi684 wrote:
A simple observation. I notice a large number of yz 250's racing especially in the b classes and I also race one as well and have...
A simple observation. I notice a large number of yz 250's racing especially in the b classes and I also race one as well and have for many years. It appears to me the yz is more popular although I believe ktm is the better choice.
Yep i notice the same here. The club i race at usually has close to 40 bikes in the 250 class, probably 1/4 to 1/3 of the class is 2 strokes and there a no ktm's.
I had a 2012 250sx and didn't particularly like it. It was faster than my yz, cornered better, braked better, forks weren't as good but it was, on paper, a better bike. I just didn't like the feel of it.
I must say though, unless yamaha updates the yz, when it's time for a new bike the ktm will definitely be on the radar

Post a reply to: '18 KTM 250SX or YZ250 Which one to drag home?