2022 KTM 250 XC-F, 2022 KTM 250 XC-F

The 250 cc 4-stroke landscape is one fraught with competition. However, the KTM 250 XC-F has for years been the leader, boasting a state-of-the-art engine management system, the strongest 250 cc 4-stroke engine in pit lane, and a high-performance, race-bred chassis setup, the KTM 250 XC-F remains an education in speed and agility.

Engine

The KTM 250 XC-F engine is known to be the strongest engine in the 250 cc 4-stroke class. Screaming to 14,000 RPM, but is equally happy producing tons of torque and low down, it's a perfectly versatile powerplant, with no compromise. Add to that also, compact architecture, excellent mass centralization, and a low weight of only 47.6 pounds, and the accolades begin to make perfect sense.

Cylinder head

The centerpiece of the compact DOHC (double overhead camshaft) engine is the cutting-edge cylinder head. It features two overhead camshafts, which activate titanium valves via super-light cam followers with a hard DLC coating. That gives this engine a revvy character, but doesn't take anything away from its low-down power delivery.

Crankshaft

The KTM 250 XC-F's crankshaft utilizes a short connecting rod, which makes for an overall compact and lightweight engine with a snappy power delivery. A plain big (bottom) end bearing with two force-fitted bearing shells runs directly on the crank pin. The necessary oil feed for this bearing is ensured by the engine's pressurized lubrication. This design is a decisive benefit in terms of the crankshaft service interval, which can be lengthened due to the plain bearing. So just pin it, all day long.

Crankcases and engine covers

A lightweight engine case design allows for a very centralized shaft configuration while contributing to an efficient centralization of mass. Additionally, the engine covers feature a smart surface structure that reduces the wear caused by the rider's boots, keeping them looking as fresh as the day it rolled off the production line, while a reinforced clutch cover and engine guard mean the engine case is more robust.

Transmission

The KTM 250 XC-F is fitted with an ultra-slick 6-speed semi-close ratio PANKL transmission. An advanced ´No Dirt´ gear shift lever design prevents mud and sand from blocking the joint of the lever and guarantees trouble-free shifting. The transmission shaft also features a C4 bearing that has a bigger overlap for reliability, even at extremely tough operating conditions. As with all KTM XC-F models, the engines are fitted with a gear position sensor, giving the option of different engine characteristics for each gear.

Engine management system

The state-of-the-art Keihin Engine Management System, with electronic fuel injection, features a 44 mm throttle body with separate systems for cold starting and idle adjustment. The throttle cable mount also