Map 2 is more aggressive
and gives more power
F
or 2019, KTM’s 250 SX-F had some
decent changes. For a start there’s been
a good step forward in both the power
and handling departments, and the overall
look of the bike is great to my eyes – it’s
certainly got a much leaner and lighter look
to it.
POWER
The new engines have a lot more useable
power for 2019, with two different delivery
maps. KTM has given the bike a lot more
bottom end power and more torque, which
is really noticeable – smoothing out the
power. In terms of the engine maps, Map 1
is very smooth making it a great option for
slippery conditions but I think it would also
be a help for endurance races. Map 2 is more
aggressive and gives more power – and it’s
the mode I ride with most of the time. This
mode is more powerful all the way through
the rev-range, especially at the top end,
letting the engine rev out more.
SUSPENSION
I think KTM has made some good progress in
the suspension department with this model.
KTM has stayed with the air fork, which quite
a few riders didn’t seem to like the feel of
when it first came out. I was one of those
riders, but after sticking with it and getting
used to the feeling of the air fork, I now think
it’s as good – if not better – than a wire-spring
fork. I’d say that the feeling you get through
the ‘bars with the air fork doesn’t quite relate
directly to the handling, so it’s this that takes
a bit of adjusting to.
The air forks are easy to dial in just by
altering the air pressure to suit the track
conditions, rider weight, rider style etc. KTM
has also upgraded the linkage and shock,
which has given the bike a much plusher
feel at the start of the stroke, but gives more
support on the big bumps. This lets the bike
squat more at the rear which, together with
the forks, gives a better overall handling
package. I’d say you could race the 250 SX-F
KIWI RIDER 59