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2008 KTM 125-144SX Photo Gallery
MotoUSA got a chance to sample Austria's latest and greatest lightweight 2-cycle weaponry; the KTM 125SX and 144SX at the fast and bumpy Glen Helen Raceway in San Bernardino, California. Check out our
2008 KTM 125SX &144SX First Ride
2008 KTM 125SX & 144SX
Alvin rekindled his love for 2-strokes with the potent little KTMs.
The 144SX has a definite advantage in the motor category, but as much fun as it is to ride, even the larger 2-stroke doesn't stack up evenly with 250F machines.
Even the swingarm looks good on the ’08 KTMs.
Smashing into berms is a blast on these bikes because you can carry so much speed going in and still muscle them around.
Wave rotors highlight super-strong brakes that are plenty adequate for such a light machine.
Alvin does his best to hide from the camera.
No wonder changing a top end is so easy, look at how much space there is in there!
After getting the suspension set up, these lightweight 2-cycles can go anywhere you want them to.
Alvin rekindled his love for 2-strokes with the potent little KTMs.
Ah, the simple life of a 2-stroke muffler. Size does matter, and in this case the small exhaust can of a 2-stroke provides serious weight savings.
The 144 and 125 are hard to tell apart just by looking at them, but the difference on the track is fairly dramatic.
The linkage-less PDS shock is getting better and better, but our testers needed more than one day of riding to get them just right.
As always, the 125cc mill works best when screamed, and aggressive riding is required to post fast laps.
The real advantage of riding this duo of Katooms lies in their handling characteristics.
The little 125 can get flat with or without dirt.
Stiffer suspension settings for ’08 are appreciated by the faster and heavier riders.
KTM is hoping that the 144 will breathe a little life into the amateur classes.
Both machines fly straight with good balance front to rear.
As a compact rider, Alvin appreciated the cockpit layout.
The 125 and 144 give upcoming riders some options that aren’t as big of a jump as the 250Fs.
Headshake wasn’t an issue during out day at the rough Glen Helen circuit.
While many OEMs are dropping their 2-stroke lineup like a sack of steamy poo, KTM keeps developing better ring-dingers, and offering options for the smokin' faithful.
The 125 feels lighter than the larger 144, and those gains are most notable in the air.
What was the first thing out of our testers’ mouths? Flickable.
The byproduct of racing either of these machines is some healthy roost, lots of smiles and that delicious smell of premix.
The only 125cc machine to qualify for a Supercross Lites main event this year was Orange.
KTM has been known for building fast 125cc motors. Now the biggest recognition lies in the fact that they simply produce such a relic.
Our testers noted a boost in the top-end hit on the 144SX. All of the riders felt that this bike would be more competitive in the 250F class.
Tool-less clickers are just one of many high quality components.
KTM's use of Renthal handlebars and grips is a winning combo for us.
KTM is ruling the tiddler class, but more by default than anything.
