KTM 250 SX specifications
KTM · Motocross
Total Motorcycle says the 250 SX enters the paddock with an engine weight of only 52.6 lb (23.9 kg), and credits electronic fuel injection and a power valve with more usable power through the rev range.
For 2025 it lists improved engine mounts with cut-outs that add chassis flex, reduce weight by 300 g and keep stability, upgraded suspension settings, an upgraded rear brake pedal with more stiffness and bending resistance, and tank shrouds in two-compound plastic that channel air to the radiators.
KTM 250 SX
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Model year | 2027 |
| Displacement | 249cc |
| Bore x stroke | 2.61 in x 2.83 in (66.4 mm x 72 mm) |
| Transmission | 5-speed |
| Ground clearance | 354 mm (13.94 in) |
| Weight without fuel | 99.4 kg |
| Starting MSRP | $9,649 |
| Class | Motocross |
| Engine | 1-cylinder, 2-stroke engine |
| Fuel system | Vitesco Technologies EMS |
| Final drive | 520, Non-sealed |
| Front suspension | WP XACT-USD (AER), Ø 48 mm |
| Front suspension travel | 310 mm |
| Rear suspension | WP XACT Monoshock with linkage |
| Rear suspension travel | 300 mm |
| Front brake | Disc brake |
| Seat height | 958 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 1.9 gal |
| Frame | Central double-cradle-type 25CrMo4 steel |
| Destination charge | $690 |
The same source also says the simplicity and low maintenance cost of the two-stroke motor have made it a favorite of motocross riders for generations.
Common issues
The 250 SX has a five-speed gearbox, a 310 mm (12.2 in) WP XACT air fork and a 300 mm (11.81 in) XACT shock. It sits 354 mm (13.94 in) off the ground. The dry weight is 99.4 kg (219 lb), and the seat is 958 mm (37.7 in).
Against the 300 SX and 250 SX-F
The 250 SX is the cheapest of KTM's full-size two-stroke motocross bikes at $9,649, $250 under the 300 SX. It has the same frame, suspension and weight as the 300 but a smaller engine. KTM's own 250 SX-F is a four-stroke.
Compare the 125 SX, 250 SX and 300 SX against the rider’s competition class and training. Engine displacement alone does not establish readiness for the larger machine.
250 SX against the YZ250 and 300 SX
Yamaha's YZ250 is the other current 250 two-stroke, and KTM's 300 SX shares the chassis.
KTM 250 SX — specification referenceKTM · Motocross
The 250 SX is KTM's mid-size two-stroke motocross bike, and Total Motorcycle calls its engine the benchmark for the class. It uses fuel injection and a power valve, and KTM asks $9,649 before destination.
Total Motorcycle says the 250 SX enters the paddock with an engine weight of only 52.6 lb (23.9 kg), and credits electronic fuel injection and a power valve with more usable power through the rev range.
For 2025 it lists improved engine mounts with cut-outs that add chassis flex, reduce weight by 300 g and keep stability, upgraded suspension settings, an upgraded rear brake pedal with more stiffness and bending resistance, and tank shrouds in two-compound plastic that channel air to the radiators.
The same source also says the simplicity and low maintenance cost of the two-stroke motor have made it a favorite of motocross riders for generations.
Common issues
MotoSport lists what riders report on the 2025 bike: some riders report issues with power delivery, particularly at low rpm, and it says regular maintenance including seal replacement and oil changes can prevent this. The write-up also says upgrading to high-performance brake pads and keeping brake fluid at the right level can address brake complaints. These are a retailer's generic notes, not KTM data.
The 250 SX has a five-speed gearbox, a 310 mm (12.2 in) WP XACT air fork and a 300 mm (11.81 in) XACT shock. It sits 354 mm (13.94 in) off the ground. The dry weight is 99.4 kg (219 lb), and the seat is 958 mm (37.7 in).
Against the 300 SX and 250 SX-F.
The 250 SX is the cheapest of KTM's full-size two-stroke motocross bikes at $9,649, $250 under the 300 SX. It has the same frame, suspension and weight as the 300 but a smaller engine. KTM's own 250 SX-F is a four-stroke. A rider moving up from a 125 usually chooses the 250 for its lighter feel.
Who it suits
The 250 SX suits a rider who wants a light, race-ready two-stroke and accepts the maintenance that comes with it: premix, frequent piston and top-end attention, and jetting in changing weather. It is a motocross-track tool, and with a 1.9 gal tank it is not a trail bike.
250 SX against the YZ250 and 300 SX.
Yamaha's YZ250 is the other current 250 two-stroke, and KTM's 300 SX shares the chassis.
Where the 250 SX and the 300 SX differ, from the two KTM listings
- Model-year range
- 2025–2027
- Compared editions
- 3
- Specification entries
- 21
- Entries that differ
- 0
2027 KTM 250 SX questions
How heavy is the KTM 250 SX engine?
Total Motorcycle lists an engine weight of only 52.6 lb (23.9 kg) and calls it the benchmark in the 250 class. KTM lists the whole bike at 99.4 kg without fuel.
What issues do riders report on the KTM 250 SX?
MotoSport reports some power-delivery complaints at low rpm and brake-feel notes, and suggests regular seal and oil maintenance and better brake pads as the fixes.
Does the KTM 250 SX have fuel injection?
Yes. Total Motorcycle lists electronic fuel injection with a power valve, which it says gives more usable power through the rev range.
Keeping the quarter-litre SX comparison specific
The 250 SX's 249cc two-stroke engine belongs in a comparison with the 300 SX, but it is still a distinct competition-bike choice. The base prices here differ by $250: $9,649 for the 250 and $9,899 for the 300. That is a purchase-price calculation, not evidence that either machine will be easier to ride for a particular rider.
Both listed SX tanks hold 1.9 gallons, and both seats are given as 958 mm. Those shared dimensions do not make their engine response interchangeable. Ask to identify the gearing, exhaust and engine changes on a used 250, because aftermarket work can alter the very characteristic the buyer is trying to compare. Original parts and invoices help establish what has changed.
For a motocross purchase, inspect wear around the controls, footrests, wheels and suspension, then reconcile that condition with the maintenance record. A newly fitted set of plastics cannot establish engine hours or the condition of bearings. Obtain the correct service schedule and budget the work actually due, instead of using a road-bike mileage expectation for a competition machine.
Other models in this reference: KTM 250 XC, KTM 250 Duke, KTM 300 SX.