but really comes down to rider preference . I prefer the PDS . I like the ‘ lively ’ feel it has , as it makes bunny-hopping bumps a lot easier and feels like less rider input is needed . Also , for the extreme enduro style of riding there isn ’ t anything hanging down under the bike to catch on logs or rocks . There ’ s also the maintenance point of view , where the PDS is a lot more simple , which means less time playing with spanners and more time for riding .
RACE PREP Making my 300 extreme race ready wasn ’ t a big job , as I ’ ve found KTMs really do live up to their slogan of Ready to Race . Starting up top , I put on a set of ODI “ Champ ” bend handlebars . They ’ re a bit lower and flatter than stock , very similar to the SX bar . I find I can be stronger over the front when cornering and on uphills . Next was an FMF Fatty expansion chamber . This is mainly because they ’ re easier to pop the dents out , but there are also some slight performance gains . The pipe makes it a bit crisper and smoother off the bottom compared to the stock pipe , which has a slight stutter when accelerating . Next was a skid plate and fan , essential for all enduro racing , something I think should really come fitted as stock . For the suspension I run WP Xplor Pro Cone- Valve forks , which stopped any deflection from high speed impacts . For the shock , I put in a K-tech bladder kit , which I really like . It gives much better drive and traction over rough ground , feeling like the wheel stays on the ground more and firms up the shock from stock . I think the TPI is better for extreme enduro than the old carburettor models . I find it ’ s easier to get traction , probably due to there being a little less bottom end power , and the consistency in the power delivery every time to attack an obstacle offers a lot more confidence . The KTM 300 EXC is just one of those legendary models that keeps getting better and better . Ride one and you ’ ll see exactly why . TOM BUXTON
32 KIWI RIDER