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2010 KTM 250 SX-F Shootout Photo Gallery

The KTM isn’t a radically different motorcycle; it’s just not a clone like the other three are.

The only non-Japanese bike in our test, the 2010 KTM 250 SX-F takes on all challengers with its unique approach to motocross dirt bikes. Check out how the KTM stacked up against the japanese brands in the 2010 250 Motocross Shootout.

The 250 SX-F was fastest in the third gear roll-on test.

KTM struggled in the holeshot simulation.

The KTM tallies the best objective test scores, dinged most heavily for its pricetag and holeshot time courtesy of slow-building power. However, it makes up for a lot with light weight and low sound output.

Without fuel the SX-F is the lightest.

2010 250 Motocross Shootout Torque Dyno Graph

2010 250 Motocross Shootout Horse Power Dyno Graph

The hydraulic clutch is amazing.

Multiple riders claimed to have a hard time getting the bike to stick in ruts.

The KTM 250 SX-F brings distinct flavor to our test with its steel chassis, high-strung motor and kind-of-familiar-but-still-weird ergonomics.

Our testers thought the delivery was softer off idle and through the midrange, and keeping it up in the rpm is the most effective way to extract the most from this bike.

The KTM holds 2.1 gallons of fuel, the same amount as the Kawasaki and the most in our shootout. It holds 40% more fuel than the CRF250R, which might mean something if you race GPs, endurance motos, team races, or, dare we say it, the occasional trail ride.

Without doubt, the Austrians know how to build a fast small-bore engine.

2010 KTM 250 SX-F Shootout

Once the Japanese bikes are begging for a shift, the KTM keeps stretching with an endless scream.

Some liked the 48mm fork but couldn’t come to terms with the shock.

Once it starts to get rough, the stiff fork and sensitive chassis transmit a lot of that abuse to the rider.

The KTM drew poor marks in the handling category.

Unlike the 450 SX-F, which completely blew us away this year with its WP fork and shock, the smaller motocross bike was unanimously ranked last by our six testers.

KTM is the only machine in our test with a six-speed transmission. The extra gear provided ratios that allow the rider to be very selective with the power delivery.

Kyle Smith was one of our lightest riders and was least affected by the mellow bottom end.

The KTM was best in the class for tall-rider comfort.

Frankie wanted more traction on the front end but had a hard time getting far enough forward.

With the Japanese bikes getting more similar each year, the KTM still feels the most unique.

These Renthal grips were some of our favorites.