THE 2012 KTM EXC range is proof that if you couple the feedback given from factory riders with modern technology, engineering and materials you can dramatically improve from a previous model's overall performance, even if the previous models were already the class leaders. Darren Smart gives his view on the three KTM EXC two-Strokes that will hit Australia’s shores in the coming months.

The KTM 200, 250 and 300 EXC two-strokers have always been fun to ride. It doesn’t matter if you’re on a simple trail ride or a hard core thrash at warp speed…the nimble handling, the fantastic clutch, brakes and ergos coupled with the clean explosive power makes for a ride few would deem mundane.
For 2012 KTM has thrown all of its resources behind a series of changes that makes these three ‘smokers’ the ‘Dream Ride’ for 2012.

New chassis
KTM has new frames for all of its 2012 EXC models and even though it was a surprise that the PDS frames are back considering the success of the ‘linkaged’ SX-F models KTM insists that one, there is no compromise in handling with the PDS system and two, the linkage system is prone to damage in the hard-core world of enduro and bush bashing.
So, here is a basic run on the new 2012 KTM chassis. As per usual the frame is made from high-quality, lightweight chrome-moly steel material in various profiles and is half a kilo lighter than its nearest competitor.

The new frame design provides higher torsional and reduced longitudinal stiffness, providing better stability with improved handling. The most obvious change to the naked eye is where the shock is mounted to the chassis and this new mount is designed to isolate and absorb energy created from rear wheel impacts.
The new EXC WP PDS shock is 7mm longer and is mounted flatter compared to previous models to offer a much improved rising rate. It is also fitted with improved piston and bushings which provide better seal and friction properties to handle the higher shaft velocities. A new spring retention and preload system allows preload adjustment without the use of hammer and punch.

The shock is bolted to an all new ‘single component’ cast aluminium swing arm which is 300 grams lighter, has up-dated mounting positions, slightly higher profiles and optimised flex support to work in unison with the new frame and suspension.
According to KTM, ‘the single-component casting process for the new swing arm allows unlimited geometry solutions and eliminates any inconsistencies created by welding.’

Up front the 2012 EXC models are fitted with WP’s latest generation 48mm USD forks which are now fitted with new seals, improved bushings and new settings featured throughout the range.
The new EXC range also features the Stefan Everts inspired super slim ergos that have excellent contact points between rider and machine while there is now a ‘grab handle’ moulded into the new 50mm wider rear mudguard.

An all-new airbox offers protection for the air filter against dirt and maximises airflow for increased performance while the KTM engine dyno department has designed different intake boots for every displacement to optimise the power and responsiveness for each model.
The new two-strokes feature a ‘two-component technology’ silencer which is mounted with a strong plastic holder around the aluminium housing.
KTM wheels feature CNC machined hubs while the spokes are now covered with a zinc/nickel coating to improve corrosion resistance and the new nipples are made of high-strength aluminium which reduces the weight by 200 grams per wheel.

Overall the 2012 KTM EXC range comes with the usual quality we expect from the orange army including the proven integrated cooling system, the hydraulic clutch, Brembo brakes, tapered aluminium handle bars, Renthal grips and the much loved KTM tool kit.

The ride – 200EXC
Since it’s unveiling in 1998, the KTM 200EXC has enjoyed a loyal following here in Australia for the smaller built riders thanks to the fact it goes like a cut cat and handles like a 125cc motocrosser… I mean, what else could you want, and for 2012 the motor is even livelier thanks to the new airbox and intake boot, a new exhaust and an all new ignition curve.
Couple that with all of the chassis and suspension changes and you have a dirt bike that really makes you feel like there are no boundaries no matter what is ahead of you on the trail. Sure, the 200 is not ideal for open road riding but to be honest, I am not a fan of 100km per hour stuff on any two-stroke but where this bike shines is its ability to brake way deep into the corners and steer though them like a knife through butter. This bike has a huge fun factor and suits riders of all abilities.

The ride - 250EXC
Already powerful, the electric start 250 gets the new airbox and intake boot as well as a new reed valve block to make this an awesome all-round package that inspires phenomenal confidence.
Honestly, you give this motor full throttle between each corner and you are building up serious speed and each time you thank your lucky stars that you have world class brakes to pull this baby up. If you change your mindset, slip the 250 into third gear and cruise through the single track trails using the ample torque the bike is just as happy as it is in ballistic mode.

The ride - 300EXC
Almost everyone who has ridden a KTM 300EXC in the last ten or so years just loves the motor. KTM has found the balance between explosive motocross style power with a pull of the throttle and the flick of the clutch and the broad torque of a motor happy to be lugged along for a cruisy Sunday ride.
Yet, despite the fact that it is a class favourite KTM has developed a new 300cc cylinder to give the electric start, six-speed motor more low-end power than ever before. Add the new airbox and intake boot and new reed valve block with the new cylinder and we have a KTM 300 that is clean, crisp and powerful from idle through to red-line.

Like the 200 and the 250 I was feeling invincible on the 300 but what stood out for me was the ability to stick the turns and get on the gas so early and to be able to hold one gear for so long. I was often holding third gear through a series of turns instead of going up and down the gears and just concentrating on my braking, turns and acceleration and thanks to this beautiful motor I never stressed about the motor not reacting as desired.

The ride – the new chassis/suspension
I want to sum up the ride on all three of these models by giving my appraisal of what the new chassis and suspension will do for you, the rider. Well, for starters, after I heard all of the science behind the engineering changes to the chassis I will admit to being a little overwhelmed.
I mean, who thinks of ‘torsional and longitudinal stiffness’? Or ‘isolating and absorbing energy created from rear wheel impacts’? Obviously and thankfully the tech heads at KTM HQ do because the change in the new chassis was very obvious to me so here is my take and what it did for me on the track and in turn what it will do for you.

OK, under brakes the new chassis gives an amazing amount of stability, even through large braking bumps or braking through rocks and logs etc, there just isn’t the same amount of force coming from the rear wheel through the rest of the chassis, you can feel the reduced impact through your seat and footpegs and I think this also allows the front forks to work better as well.

I was even hitting this foot high ledge at the side of one of the trails at speed and under heavy braking trying to get any of the KTMs to show signs of punching me over the bars and I was surprised each time how well the new fork/frame/shock combination worked.
And with the front and rear end being more predictable under brakes it means you can brake later and actually let the brakes off earlier and get into the turns quicker or if not quicker with more confidence.

So it was under brakes and through corners where I really felt that the 2012 KTM ECXs shone but I will also tell you that I did some laps around a motocross track nearby and all three machines are very handy smashing their way through berms and over jumps as well.

So to wrap this up I have to say that the forks are superb, the rear shock is great, obviously the new chassis is working a treat and I have to say that all three motors are what riding dirt bikes is all about. Combine all of this new stuff with all of KTM’s tried and trusted running gear and you have what I call the ‘Dream Ride’ for 2012.

The 300EXC will be available for $11,995, the 250EXC for $11,495 and the 200 EXC for $10,495.
Prices listed are recommended retail prices and exclude dealer delivery or on-road costs.
And finally, thank you KTM for not giving up on the two-strokes, there is an army of dirt bike heads out there who still love the smell and feel of a ‘smoker’.