Beatrice Lang
KTM, a major manufacturer of motorcycles, introduced its first electric start two-stroke enduro bike in 2008. The 2008 KTM 300 EXC was the first electric start two-stroke enduro bike released by a major manufacturer. In 2012, KTM released the 250SX-F, which also featured an electric start. The KTM 200 EXC, XCW, and XC models added electric starts in 2013, and the KTM 300's electric starter was updated in 2015.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Year KTM started electric start | 2007, 2008, 2009 (for North American models), 2012, 2013 |
| First model | 450 SX-F |
| Engine type | Single cylinder, 4-stroke |
| Displacement | 449.3 ccm |
| Bore x Stroke | 97/60.8 mm |
| Compression ratio | 12.5:1 |
| Performance | 59 hp power unit |
| Carburetor | Keihin carburetor |
| Transmission | 4 gears |
| Cooling | Liquid cooled |
| Clutch | Wet multi-disc clutch, operated hydraulically |
| Ignition | Kokusan digital CDI |
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What You'll Learn
KTM 300 EXC was the first electric start two-stroke enduro bike
The KTM 300 is a series of 2-stroke enduro/off-road motorcycles made by KTM. The KTM 300 EXC and the KTM 300 XC-W are European road-legal and US versions, respectively. They are designed for difficult off-road conditions and have a small headlight, speedometer, tail-light, and somewhat softer linkless PDS suspension.
In 2008, KTM started offering electric start on all 300 models, making the KTM 300 EXC the first electric start two-stroke enduro bike released by a major manufacturer. This was a significant development, as it revolutionized the two-stroke world. Since then, KTM has continued to make improvements to the KTM 300 models, including engine upgrades, suspension changes, and the addition of electric start.
The KTM 300 has a long history that dates back to the 1980s. The original 300GS Enduro was inspired by the 250 cc Penton Hare Scrambler and other KTM air-cooled 2-stroke enduro bikes. Over the years, KTM made various changes to the bike's design and performance, including bore and stroke changes and the addition of a hydraulic clutch. The bike was offered in several forms, including the EXC (woods), DMX (desert), SX (motocross), and TMX (EPA legal).
The KTM 300 gained popularity among off-roaders and became known as "The Bike." It has been at the top of KTM's sales charts for most of its 21-year run and is the most demanded and respected dirt bike among American riders. In 2018, KTM started offering the 300 EXC model with transfer port injection (TPI) and oil injection to meet EURO 4 standards. The KTM 300 continues to evolve, with KTM introducing new motors and features to enhance performance and responsiveness.
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KTM 200 EXC, XCW, XC models got electric start in 2013
The KTM 200 is a series of two-stroke off-road enduro motorcycles. The KTM 200 EXC, XCW, and XC models were previously fitted with a kick-start, but in 2013, an electric start was added.
The KTM 200 is a versatile dirt bike that combines agility with power. Its 200cc engine is lightweight and delivers more low-end torque than a 125cc engine, making it easier to ride at low speeds. The KTM 200's engine is highly tunable, and its wide-ratio transmission makes it ideal for slow and technical trails.
However, the electric start on the 2013 models was not the most reliable. KTM addressed this issue by updating the starter and battery in 2014, improving the reliability of the electric start system. Despite the initial issues with the electric start, the KTM 200 EXC, XCW, and XC models remain popular choices for riders due to their performance and versatility.
The KTM 200 was discontinued in 2017, with the 143.99 cc KTM 150 XC-W serving as its replacement. However, the impact of the KTM 200 series continues to be felt, with its combination of agility and power influencing the design of subsequent KTM motorcycle models.
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KTM 250SX-F was the first electric start four-stroke model
KTM started offering electric start on its two-stroke enduro bikes in 2008. The KTM 300 EXC was the first electric start two-stroke enduro bike released by a major manufacturer.
The KTM 250SX-F was the first electric start four-stroke model. It was introduced in 2012 and did not have a kick starter as a backup. However, KTM PowerParts offered a kick starter for those who felt they needed one. The 2012 KTM SX-F line received some refinements and upgrades, including electric start on the 250SX-F. After this addition, all KTM four-stroke SX models had electric start.
The 2012 KTM 250SX-F received new EMS mapping and WP fork upgrades. It has a single-cylinder, 4-stroke engine with a displacement of 248.6 cc and a compression ratio of 13.2:1. The starter/battery is an electric starter/12V 3Ah, and the transmission is 6 gears. The carburetor is a Keihin EFI with a throttle body of 42 mm, and the final drive is 13:48. The clutch is a wet multi-disc clutch with Brembo hydraulics, and the ignition is Keihin EMS.
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KTM 450 SX-F was the first electric start motocross bike
KTM is a well-known manufacturer of motocross bikes, and in 2008, it released its first electric start two-stroke enduro bike, the KTM 300 EXC. This was a significant development as it was the first electric start bike released by a major manufacturer. Since then, KTM has continued to innovate and refine its electric start technology, releasing new models with improved features and performance.
One of the most notable models in KTM's electric start line-up is the KTM 450 SX-F. This bike was introduced in 2012 as an upgraded version of its predecessor, featuring several enhancements that improved its performance and handling. One of the key upgrades was the addition of electric start, making it the first electric start motocross bike in the KTM SX-F line.
The KTM 450 SX-F offered a powerful and efficient riding experience with its single-cylinder, 4-stroke engine, displacing 449.3 cc. The electric start feature provided added convenience and ease of use, eliminating the need for a kick starter. This bike also featured a Keihin FCR 41mm carburetor and an all-new clutch design, enhancing its overall performance and responsiveness.
The 2012 KTM 450 SX-F also received several other upgrades, including new fork bushings, seals, and settings. The clutch was redesigned with a steel basket and a single diaphragm spring, offering three adjustable pre-load settings. Additionally, KTM addressed the braking system with Magura hydraulics and a Brembo hydraulic clutch for improved stopping power and control.
With its innovative features and performance enhancements, the KTM 450 SX-F played a pivotal role in advancing the electric start technology in motocross bikes. It set a new standard for both recreational and competitive riders, offering a more modern and convenient riding experience. This model paved the way for future developments in the industry, influencing the design and functionality of subsequent motocross bikes.
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KTM 300 SX is a motocross model with electric start
The KTM 300 SX is a motocross-specific bike with electric start, introduced in 2023. It is a 300cc two-stroke powerhouse with a map select switch that allows the racer to switch between two engine maps. The first map provides a linear, predictable power delivery, while the second map gives a crisp, explosive power output. The KTM 300 SX features electronic fuel injection, ensuring optimal power delivery at any altitude, eliminating the need for a fiddly jetting setup. The bike also has a power valve, improving rideability and providing more usable power throughout the rev range.
The 2023 KTM 300 SX introduced the next generation of fuel-injection technology, delivering a perfect air/fuel ratio for instantaneous and controllable power. It inherited an all-new frame, subframe, swingarm, rear shock, and plastics from the 2023 KTM four-strokes. The bike is built on the 2023 250SX model's architecture, with a bigger bore in the cylinder, resulting in an extra 43 cubic centimetres of displacement. The KTM 300 SX is also known for its smooth, roll-on power, making it exceptional in navigating corners.
The 2025 KTM 300 SX continues to improve upon its predecessor, featuring Dunlop GEOMAX MX34 tyres, providing unmatched stability and control. The bike has been redesigned with new engines and a lateral counter-balancer to reduce motor vibration. The cases have also been updated with a new position for the starter motor. The 2025 model maintains the tool-free suspension setup, ensuring control and performance.
The KTM 300 series has a long history, dating back to the Penton-inspired 1984 300 GS. In 2008, all 300's came with electric start, and the 2008 KTM 300 EXC was the first electric start two-stroke enduro bike released by a major manufacturer. Since the early 2000s, KTM has offered the XC-W model in a special premium limited edition, and the 2012 KTM SX-F line received upgrades, including electric start on the 250SX-F. The KTM 300 SX is a significant addition to the KTM 300 series, offering a motocross-specific option with advanced features and exceptional performance.
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Frequently asked questions
KTM started offering electric start on their motorcycles in 2007 with the release of the 450 SX-F model.
The KTM 300 series, KTM 200 EXC, XCW, and XC models, and KTM SX-F line all feature electric start.
The KTM 300 series got electric start in 2008.
The KTM 200 EXC, XCW, and XC models got electric start in 2013.
