If cross-country racing
is your thing then the XC
gives you the benefits of
a six-speed gearbox and
18-inch rear wheel as on
the enduro machines
Riding the '19 300 XC is really a case
of more of the same as last year, but
with a degree of refinement. The power
is smoothly progressive, strong and
responsive while being easy to use. I think
the suspension is as plush as before, but
feels more progressive than last year with
a reduced tendency to bottom out the
suspension, particularly at the rear. The
air forks work well and also have decent
bottoming resistance. As with all KTMs the
handling is solid, inspires good confidence
and has a light feel to it. It doesn't seem to
be as quick turning as the EXC, but it still
turns very well. However, it is more stable at
speed, especially in faster turns.
If cross-country racing is your thing then
the XC gives you the benefits of a six-speed
gearbox and 18-inch rear wheel as on the
enduro machines, but with the suspension
characteristics of the motocross bikes.
Overall, the 300XC gives the NZ cross-
country rider a sport-specific option which
is quite distinct from the EXC, but still an
impressive machine.
KIWI RIDER 71