22.5 KTM 250SXF Factory Edition vs 22 YZ250F Monster Edition Back to Back!

2022.5 KTM 250 Factory Edition vs 2022 Yamaha YZ250F Monster Edition comparison time! Rode both bikes back to back on a rough and rain rutted (prepped by Mother Nature) MX track and did a lap time comparison too (250 Factory Edition won). My thoughts on each bike....

2022 YZ250F: (laptime 2:13.9)
Strengths: Best in class low to mid and partial throttle torque feel feel with 2-stroke like quick throttle response. The YZ250F engine is strong and is the only 250F that feels like a 350 or mini 450 power wise. The free GYTR Power Tuner app allows for quick changes to the engine power character with a smart phone. I like the Hard Hitting and Keefer Free Feeling maps. KYB sets the bar for plush and controlled suspension that works for a wide range of rider weights, skills, and track conditions. The YZ250F chassis gives up some cornering agility for confidence inspiring stability at speed in the rough sections. Brakes are good and clutch pull effort is light.

Weaknesses: Ergos: footpegs feel a little forward and the seat to peg distance is tight for taller riders and the reverse head intake makes the radiator shrouds feel wide. The exhaust is loud.

2022.5 KTM 250SXF Factory Edition (laptime 2:12.9)
Strengths: The all new 250SXF engine has decent initial throttle response and a fun/lively mid range that still pulls strong into the higher RPM range. Map 1 pulls smooth and broad while Map 2 gives more hit but feels flatter up top. The new chassis gives up a little cornering quickness and agility for a more planted and less busy feel (mostly up front) in the choppy and faster sections - a good trade off. There is also less chassis pitch under braking and acceleration. AER forks have new hydro bottoming system and resist bottoming even with low air pressures. The new rear shock gives good comfort on acceleration chop and feels like more damping control overall. The new radiator shrouds/side panels/ergos feel near Honda perfect and the new foot pegs are mounted very close to the frame which works with the new plastic and really keeps the rider in contact with the sides of the 250FE. Brembo brakes are strong and clutch pull is light.

Weaknesses:
Some riders prefer the feel of spring forks. AER forks take time and effort to find right clicker and air pressure settings and change during the day as ambient temperature changes. No phone app or myKTM connectivity unit to dial in engine settings. Only 400 made so hard to find and sometimes priced well above MSRP.

The Bottom Line:
Suspension plushness and low to mid roll on torque YZ250F holds the edge. Decent low to mid and fun midrange power, great cornering vs stability balance, excellent ergos, KTM wins. You decide what characteristics you like better.

Will add the '22 CRF250R to the mix for another 250F Back to Back ride soon

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