Dude, for a first time moto review this is amazing! You are articulate in presenting your opinions and experience in a super digestible manner. I hope you keep them coming. Impressive.
Literally amazing review, you killed it brother! just got into riding again, bought a gasgas 250 and im leaning more towards enduro! you're killer on bikes man i would love to ride like this
You do the same riding. I have no time or funds to spend racing. I tried racing years ago, but soon realized i didnt have the budget to even compete in numberous races let alone a full season. I just ride for fun and mainly excerise. Im retired and getting up in years, this is without a doubt the best physical excise an older adult can do. It keeps me limber, and i dont hurt all the time maintaining some kind of physical activity at my age is always better than sitting around.
I'm always watching motorcycle content and reviews and this review was awesome man keep up the great work sounds like you have done thousands of reviews and not your first one good stuff
I thought this was a fair & honest review, and your riding is pretty good so that lends credence to your assessment. I’m struck by how similar the terrain is to here in Alberta.
Hey great review, thanks. I have 100 hours on a Gas Gas EC 300 2020. I agree with all your comments on the bike (even though our specs are different ) The EC has better plastics with a built in grab handle that's very comfortable. But I actual removed the stock tail piece with the grab handle and fitted a tugger strap, which I find more useful in most conditions. Our forks are different, but I re-valved mine too and did a bladder conversion on the shock. I love TPi motors despite having owned a succession of 7 KTM 300 XCW's with carbs. In my view folks who don't like them haven't taken the time to adjust their style to play to the TPi's strengths. I love the Gas Gas and honestly feel it has a different feel to my previous KTMs. Of course a lot of this is down to linkage vs PDS. The true measure of whether you like a bike or not is whether you would buy the same model again. I definitely will when this one gets too long on hours.
KTM bought both Husky and GASGAS so that KTM denyers like me can buy a KTM, but still say I would never buy a KTM. Alas, my 2022 EC 300 is on order to go with my two WR450’s. Great video! Thoughtful and thorough. Excellent quality also.
@@JeffreyJim09 Totally agree. The sad thing is that the Japanese just won’t step up to the plate, and it’s not like they couldn’t hit a home run either.
Nicely paced, informative review as always. And no cringe, despite your humble warning. Love that hard enduro you are riding. I sold my KX for a Surron because it suits the terrain here so perfectly and helps a non-MX native like me build skills. First of the big snows due tomorrow, though, so the two-wheel toys are going to the back of the shed.
I've got a Surron in the garage too! Its the girlfriends, but I have fun on it. I'd throw some serious money at it if the frame was bigger. I've even considered making my own. SO much fertile ground here...
@@JeffreyJim09 Speaking of serious money, my battery upgrade just arrived. Yup, the frame is small but with riser bars it works for me as a weedy six-foot guy. I tried to explain the Surron vibe in a vid but did not reach your level of eloquence.
Great review; I have a 19, 20, and 21 300 TPI - my 19 runs soooo much better than the 20 and 21! I quit riding those bikes all together. The 19 didn't need an idle screw, didn't need the radiator hose protector, and it's just runs like a champ. Don't knock the 19's until you've had one. The 20 and 21 are being sold and I'll wait until 24 when they work the bugs out of the new throttle body machine. I'll always keep my 19! Cheers.
One of the best videos I've seen on YT in a while. I'm a out to go purchase a 300 2t soon. I'm a full moto guy starting to do some hare scrambles trying to decide on what to get.
just bought a 22 ex 300 and have most of the same thoughts as yourself. This is my second bike from the Ktm family and I will say it is very smooth and runs like a diesel tractor in the forest. so smooth.
Great work on the review! Out of curiosity, would you suggest this or the 2025 MC300? I grew up racing moto but have a few friends who ride desert in the sierra’s where we live. I would put a big tank on the MC, or do suspension to this. Hate that KTM makes so many models, but not something like an RX that Honda makes!
Hello Jeff, I bought a 2023 gas gas 250EC. There is a rattle from the very first startup ,the dealership said that it is normal and that these bikes are loud. Are you familiar with the rattle I am talking about? All videos I see of gas gas bikes I hear the same rattle. If you are familiar with the rattle is there any way to quiet the rattle and what is it? I heard Lucas fuel cleaner can lubricate and quiet the rattle. I would just like a second opinion from a fellow rider. Thank you for your time sir.
Good review. Your doing great for your 4th year in. I've been riding a long time, but didn't grow up on the pegs though. I really need to take some to put some focus on technique. I have a 2022 EX300 and I will say the same about the rear grab. Had it a only a few months. I've had an 07 and a 13 KTM and never and issues. Easy to grab. I did add a grab strap for the rear with this bike. Will see how it does. It really annoys me about it. I just now getting cozy with the suspension and starting work the clickers. I've upped the spring for the sock. Don't notice any kicking. I think I have the forks air where I need it. The front is just stiff for slow rocks. It deflects a bit and is pretty stiff. Going to try and soften it up. Will likely end up sending it off when its time for a shock rebuild. Maybe looking at a spring conversion eventually.
What do you think about the EC vs the EX? I see the 2022 EX has the XACT forks and not the AER.... any reviews on those? Otherwise, great info! ... oh .. the XACT are the AER... so nevermind!
Great Video, and for a fella that hasn't been riding long your doing a great job! What changes did you hear for 2023 because I just committed to buy a 2022 but haven't gone to pick it up yet and signed the paperwork.
Perfect review, very helpful info... One question I have outside of the bike (you answered all my bike questions) is, how do you find your trails? You have a lot of amazing footage in this vid, some from races, some from casual explore riding. How are you finding the trails?
Good question! A few ways... 1) I live near a lot of great trails. It honestly took me some time (and good buddies) to explore them all and figure them out. 2) Trailforks is pretty good (but not great) at showing moto trails. Its really a mtb app, but not bad. 3) Gaia with forest service trail layering is awesome 4) Buddies. When I travel I have a network of friends who have "been there" and share tracks with me. Hope that helps!
What was your main reason for going with the EX over the EC. I’m going to get one but I’m torn between the two. I mainly ride single track, hill climbs, the occasional Grand Prix woods race/hare scramble.
Honestly, you can't go wrong either way. I actually like the transmission of the EC better but the fork(s) on the EX better. If you are a faster rider who pushes hard in a variety of conditions (speed wise) I think you'd be happier with the EX. If you often find yourself in slower, chunkier terrain I think you'll be happier with the EC.
Good catch! Though this isn't a rookie thing, this is a Jeff thing. I have raced mountain bikes at the pro level for over 20 years, and sometimes (rarely) ride without gloves. I like it. Other WC pros, like sam blenkinsop also go gloveless at times. I even carry chalk with me for when I want to do this. ...just don't crash.
@@JeffreyJim09 Lol, of course you like it. You have to fight the urge to be lazy and convenient, dress for the slide because it happens when you least expect it.
Dude, for a first time moto review this is amazing! You are articulate in presenting your opinions and experience in a super digestible manner. I hope you keep them coming. Impressive.
Thanks dude!
Literally amazing review, you killed it brother! just got into riding again, bought a gasgas 250 and im leaning more towards enduro!
you're killer on bikes man i would love to ride like this
You do the same riding. I have no time or funds to spend racing. I tried racing years ago, but soon realized i didnt have the budget to even compete in numberous races let alone a full season. I just ride for fun and mainly excerise. Im retired and getting up in years, this is without a doubt the best physical excise an older adult can do. It keeps me limber, and i dont hurt all the time maintaining some kind of physical activity at my age is always better than sitting around.
Honestly the best review for this bike I have seen. Great job
this was a very well thought out/put together review. I'm surprised I have not come across your content yet!
I'm always watching motorcycle content and reviews and this review was awesome man keep up the great work sounds like you have done thousands of reviews and not your first one good stuff
Literally stumbled across this channel about the artic cat and it’s the best reviews I’ve ever seen keep this going!!!! Riding videos!
Thank you!!!
I thought this was a fair & honest review, and your riding is pretty good so that lends credence to your assessment. I’m struck by how similar the terrain is to here in Alberta.
Hey great review, thanks. I have 100 hours on a Gas Gas EC 300 2020. I agree with all your comments on the bike (even though our specs are different ) The EC has better plastics with a built in grab handle that's very comfortable. But I actual removed the stock tail piece with the grab handle and fitted a tugger strap, which I find more useful in most conditions. Our forks are different, but I re-valved mine too and did a bladder conversion on the shock. I love TPi motors despite having owned a succession of 7 KTM 300 XCW's with carbs. In my view folks who don't like them haven't taken the time to adjust their style to play to the TPi's strengths. I love the Gas Gas and honestly feel it has a different feel to my previous KTMs. Of course a lot of this is down to linkage vs PDS. The true measure of whether you like a bike or not is whether you would buy the same model again. I definitely will when this one gets too long on hours.
KTM bought both Husky and GASGAS so that KTM denyers like me can buy a KTM, but still say I would never buy a KTM. Alas, my 2022 EC 300 is on order to go with my two WR450’s. Great video! Thoughtful and thorough. Excellent quality also.
Thank you!! I also am bummed to see the "homogeneous" direction of brands within the sport.
@@JeffreyJim09 Totally agree. The sad thing is that the Japanese just won’t step up to the plate, and it’s not like they couldn’t hit a home run either.
Without a doubt the best dirt bike review I’ve watched.
Nicely paced, informative review as always. And no cringe, despite your humble warning. Love that hard enduro you are riding. I sold my KX for a Surron because it suits the terrain here so perfectly and helps a non-MX native like me build skills. First of the big snows due tomorrow, though, so the two-wheel toys are going to the back of the shed.
I've got a Surron in the garage too! Its the girlfriends, but I have fun on it. I'd throw some serious money at it if the frame was bigger. I've even considered making my own. SO much fertile ground here...
@@JeffreyJim09 Speaking of serious money, my battery upgrade just arrived. Yup, the frame is small but with riser bars it works for me as a weedy six-foot guy. I tried to explain the Surron vibe in a vid but did not reach your level of eloquence.
Great review; I have a 19, 20, and 21 300 TPI - my 19 runs soooo much better than the 20 and 21! I quit riding those bikes all together. The 19 didn't need an idle screw, didn't need the radiator hose protector, and it's just runs like a champ. Don't knock the 19's until you've had one. The 20 and 21 are being sold and I'll wait until 24 when they work the bugs out of the new throttle body machine. I'll always keep my 19! Cheers.
One of the best videos I've seen on YT in a while. I'm a out to go purchase a 300 2t soon. I'm a full moto guy starting to do some hare scrambles trying to decide on what to get.
just bought a 22 ex 300 and have most of the same thoughts as yourself. This is my second bike from the Ktm family and I will say it is very smooth and runs like a diesel tractor in the forest. so smooth.
Great work on the review! Out of curiosity, would you suggest this or the 2025 MC300? I grew up racing moto but have a few friends who ride desert in the sierra’s where we live. I would put a big tank on the MC, or do suspension to this. Hate that KTM makes so many models, but not something like an RX that Honda makes!
Excellent honest review. 👊🏽✊🏽🤘🏽
Hello Jeff, I bought a 2023 gas gas 250EC. There is a rattle from the very first startup ,the dealership said that it is normal and that these bikes are loud. Are you familiar with the rattle I am talking about? All videos I see of gas gas bikes I hear the same rattle. If you are familiar with the rattle is there any way to quiet the rattle and what is it? I heard Lucas fuel cleaner can lubricate and quiet the rattle. I would just like a second opinion from a fellow rider. Thank you for your time sir.
Awesome review! I just put a deposit down on the same bike and couldn't be more excited. Out of curiosity where did you get those graphics?
SCS Graphics. Hit them up. They killed it!
Very intelligent review. Subscribed for more.
Good review. Your doing great for your 4th year in. I've been riding a long time, but didn't grow up on the pegs though. I really need to take some to put some focus on technique. I have a 2022 EX300 and I will say the same about the rear grab. Had it a only a few months. I've had an 07 and a 13 KTM and never and issues. Easy to grab. I did add a grab strap for the rear with this bike. Will see how it does. It really annoys me about it. I just now getting cozy with the suspension and starting work the clickers. I've upped the spring for the sock. Don't notice any kicking. I think I have the forks air where I need it. The front is just stiff for slow rocks. It deflects a bit and is pretty stiff. Going to try and soften it up. Will likely end up sending it off when its time for a shock rebuild. Maybe looking at a spring conversion eventually.
Thanks man!!!
What do you think about the EC vs the EX? I see the 2022 EX has the XACT forks and not the AER.... any reviews on those? Otherwise, great info! ... oh .. the XACT are the AER... so nevermind!
Dude, excellent review.
Awesome reviews. I never knew about the “fork” controversy 😂
Oh its a huge thing. LOL.
Great review! Would love to see your footage of the Silver race 🤘
Solid review and footage!!
Great review!
What were you running for a spark arrestor? Thanks
Its built into the aftermarket FMF exhaust I was running.
Just bought the same bike in a ‘22. Can you run down your hand guards for me? Also
Great Video, and for a fella that hasn't been riding long your doing a great job! What changes did you hear for 2023 because I just committed to buy a 2022 but haven't gone to pick it up yet and signed the paperwork.
I've heard an entirely new injection system. How much it'll matter is yet to be determined. I'm keeping my 2021 and will be buying a 2023.
Perfect review, very helpful info... One question I have outside of the bike (you answered all my bike questions) is, how do you find your trails? You have a lot of amazing footage in this vid, some from races, some from casual explore riding. How are you finding the trails?
Good question! A few ways...
1) I live near a lot of great trails. It honestly took me some time (and good buddies) to explore them all and figure them out.
2) Trailforks is pretty good (but not great) at showing moto trails. Its really a mtb app, but not bad.
3) Gaia with forest service trail layering is awesome
4) Buddies. When I travel I have a network of friends who have "been there" and share tracks with me.
Hope that helps!
@@JeffreyJim09 Sounds great. Thank you very much for the reply... Keep up the great content... and Happy riding!
Can you run down what you did for protection parts?
Can you share what wheels you bought off eBay
What was your main reason for going with the EX over the EC. I’m going to get one but I’m torn between the two. I mainly ride single track, hill climbs, the occasional Grand Prix woods race/hare scramble.
Honestly, you can't go wrong either way. I actually like the transmission of the EC better but the fork(s) on the EX better. If you are a faster rider who pushes hard in a variety of conditions (speed wise) I think you'd be happier with the EX. If you often find yourself in slower, chunkier terrain I think you'll be happier with the EC.
8:35 It's a fork with two legs. Not a front fork either. There is only one. The thingy in the back is a shock. And not a rear shock either.
great job
This was very informative.
Great review. Well done. Thank you.
If I had to guess I would think you where paid to make such high Quality reviews
Do you not ride with gloves?
Usually I do. From time to time I’ll ditch them, usually I’d the gloves are too tight and contributing to arm pump.
I'm also 6'2. Do you run any sort of bar risers?
Nope. I would consider 10mm. Anymore and you are going to throw off the way you weight the bike.
Great review
I know what you should try on this bike ; convert this machine into a super moto ! ! ! You'll love it ! ! !
I’m at minute 3 and kinda wigged out that you ride without gloves a lot. Do you hate your hands and fingers?😆
Pipestone Love
Dadi nek aki kalah main game os ngono kui malah seneng mboh piye utekkubra mudeng koyok seru mikirku.
It is Husky TE = KTM XC-W ... Husky TC = KTM SX
How I knew you were a rookie, I saw you riding with no gloves. Pain awaits for you my friend
Good catch! Though this isn't a rookie thing, this is a Jeff thing. I have raced mountain bikes at the pro level for over 20 years, and sometimes (rarely) ride without gloves. I like it. Other WC pros, like sam blenkinsop also go gloveless at times. I even carry chalk with me for when I want to do this.
...just don't crash.
@@JeffreyJim09 Lol, of course you like it. You have to fight the urge to be lazy and convenient, dress for the slide because it happens when you least expect it.
you talk too much about yourself anyway there is too many of these review.
Fun fact: you can casually skip my video! Thankfully 99% like it, so I’m going to keep doing what I do. Cheers douche!
Awesome job on this review. You nailed it.
Wonderful review!