2024 KTM 300 XC-W Built For Bashing Over Tough Terrain

The KTM 300 XC-W is one of the most recognized names at the sharp end of hard enduro. With a bulletproof, fuel-injected 2-stroke engine churning out masses of low-down torque and top-end fury, it's the ideal companion when tackling challenging terrain. Now with all-new suspension, a new frame and fresh bodywork, the 2024 KTM 300 XC-W is ready to take on the world's toughtest enduro terrain.
KTM’s newest generation two-strokes are here and in a big way. KTM changed the game a few years back when they introduced TPi (Transfer Port Injected) technology into their XC-W lineup, followed soon after by the XC two-strokes. With mixed reviews on the performance of the TPi system (we could appreciate the benefits of TPi technology and how it worked on the trail), KTM unveiled their new Throttle Body Injected (TBi) two-strokes in the 2023 SX and XC two-strokes and have now transferred that over to the 2024 XC-W’s. With an all new motor cradled inside the next generation chassis, KTM swapped out the XPLOR suspension components for a new XACT closed-cartridge spring fork and matching shock for an entirely new bike. How does the 300 XC-W perform on the trail? To sum it up, we’re impressed.
The 300cc two-stroke motor is something else. In short, it’s like a mix of the best traits of the TPi motor and a carbureted motor. It has a smoother roll on and torquey feel similar to the TPi, but with a lot more spunk and character like a carbureted two-stroke has. Like the TPi motor, you can open up the throttle more aggressively at low RPMs without bogging or killing the bike. Likewise, you can putt through technical sections at the slowest speeds and have little worry about stalling the bike. A stronger hit down low makes the bike more lively and exciting than the TPi, and it carries well into the mid-range with a smooth and consistent pull. Like most 300cc two-strokes, and trail bikes in general, it falls off early on top, but these bikes aren’t really designed to be ridden up there. For what it’s designed to do, the new motor is quite impressive and one we prefer in most scenarios over the outgoing TPi two-stroke.
The transmission ratios felt spot on. First gear is low enough for some really tight riding without having to abuse the clutch, and as you shift up into each gear, we felt we were right where we needed to be. We didn’t ride any fast terrain, mainly 2nd-4th gear singletrack and fire roads, but the spacing feels as it should. Clutch feel is typical KTM - very good for a hydraulic clutch with an easy pull and good actuation.