The KTM 250 XC-W presents enduro riders with the ultimate combination of power and rideability, setting the benchmark in the highly contested E1 class. Thanks to its groundbreaking frame, updated closed-cartridge suspension, and epic TBI technology, it remains an extreme machine that continues to reach new heights. How far you push, though, is up to you.
*This is a competition-only model with no street-legal homologation.
Adjustability
Getting READY TO RACE has never been easier. The KTM Enduro range boasts a tool-free suspension setup at both ends. At the rear, our legendary, race-winning PDS technology features hand-adjustable dual compression controls, allowing riders to adjust high- and low-speed settings in a matter of seconds. On the front, the forks are also easily adjusted thanks to hand-adjustable clickers on the bottom of the fork shoe and on the fork top cap, making changing settings on the fly as easy as twisting the throttle.
Air filter box
The air filter box is designed to ensure maximum airflow with minimal water intrusion. Precision in how the inlet ducts are positioned is aimed at preventing air deformation and maintaining filter protection. An enduro-specific splash protector under the airbox prevents water or dirt from splashing up from the rear wheel, while the Twin Air filter and air filter support design features a simple fail-proof mounting system for safe and accurate filter installation. All this ensures the air filter is easily accessed, without tools, for fast track-side maintenance.
Fuel Tank
The transparent, polythene (XPE) fuel tank is a signature element of the KTM Enduro lineup. Having undergone thorough race testing in everything from the GNCC to the hardest of FIM hard enduros, these tanks are built, well, like tanks! A one-piece fuel pump and filter manage fuel supply, while servicing is made extra simple with easy fuel filter access. What's more, an updated fuel tank roll now holds the tank more firmly in place and protects the frame against scrubbing.
Switchgear
The entire KTM Enduro range will receive new, easy-to-use switchgear. On the right side of the handlebar, you'll find a new, sleeker start/stop switch, and on the left, an optional Map Select switch will allow riders to choose between Map 1 or Map 2.
Graphics
The 2026 KTM Enduro Range gets a fresh color update. Orange dominates the color palate, but shades of dark purple and red make an appearance. As always, all graphics remain in place thanks to in-mold technology, now on new tank spoilers with bi-composite plastics on the upper and lower areas to add a fresh, sharp, and distinctive new look. The seat features a high-grip seat cover in black, with the same texture shared across the frame protectors, tank spoilers, and the bar pad.
Engine
The 250cc 2-stroke engine has long been the best combination of unsurpassed power and lightweight construction. This lightweight 24.8 kg engine is designed to provide more torque than any previous 250cc 2-stroke engine without losing its typical 250 cc 2-stroke charactet. The 250 XC-W engine sets the benchmark in the competitive Enduro E1 class.
Throttle Body Injection
The KTM 2-stroke Enduro models feature electronically-controlled Throttle Body Injection - or TBI. The ECU, together with a Keihin 39mm throttle body,calculates the ideal air-fuel mixture by constantly analyzing water temperature, air temperature, ambient pressure, and pressure within the crankcase, the rpm, and the throttle position to ensure the smoothest and most consistent power delivery in the most gnarly of enduro conditions. A protection cap is used for the CPC fuel connector on all models. This not only prevents dirt from entering the sides of the connector and prevents mistakenly opening, but also adds protection from sticks or stones that might hit it. The small fuel filter in the fuel hose still stays in place and is easily accessible.
Offroad Control Unit
The Offroad Control Unit - or OCU - is located under the seat and replaces all the electronic fuses and relays. All outputs are switched depending on signals from the voltage regulator and the ECU continuously. In the event of over-current, outputs are deactivated individually. This makes for easy error detection as the status of each output is indicated by a red or green LED light. This means diagnosing an electrical issue out on the trail is as easy as lifting the seat, and there's no more need to carry fiddly fuses.
Selectable Engine Maps
Designed for easy operation, the map select switch is available as an optional extra on all KTM EXC models and allows for the easy selection of 2 unique engine maps. Map 1 is the standard, more linear, and predictable power map, while map 2 is a more aggressive map for added throttle response and more crisp, explosive power output.
Battery & Wiring Harness
As with the rest of the 4-stroke KTM EXC-F range, the KTM 250 EXC-F is fitted with a proven and reliable electric start system. Powered by an ultra-lightweight 2 Ah lithium-ion starter battery, it provides a safe, reliable starting time and time again, while the wiring harness has most of the electrical components carefully positioned under the seat for easy accessibility.
Ergonomics
The KTM EXC range features a rider-focussed body-position triangle, providing improved knee contact - especially when standing on the pegs - with improved gripping surfaces all around. With the plastics working to expel mud buildup in wet, muddy conditions, a flat seat profile with a high grip seat cover providing exceptional rider movement and control, and a polyamide-reinforced aluminum subframe providing unmatched rider feel and feedback, your only concern is navigating the terrain ahead of you.
Exhaust
Providing the bark to the KTM 250 EXC-F bite, the exhaust system is designed to deliver hard-hitting performance at the lowest possible weight. The 2-piece header pipe design is made to be as compact as possible, with the routing of the header pipe extremely close to the engine for maximum of mass centralization and minimum exposure to rocks. At the nose-making end, a short, compact silencer is crafted from lightweight aluminum and finished in a premium matt black coating.
Cooling System
Keeping cool is made even easier, thanks to a radiator closure with a standard thread opening. This makes it quicker and easier to open the radiator cap for top-ups. An optional radiator fan can also be fitted for additional cooling.
Frame
Specifically engineered for longitudinal rigidity, the KTM EXC range is engineered around a black powder coated frame providing exceptional rider feedback, energy absorption, and high-speed stability. This is achieved by repositioning the rotating masses in the frame along with a forged steering head connection. The footrest mounts also feature a slim design for less risk of hooking up. And when the ride comes to an end, a forged one-piece side stand ensures your enduro weapon stands proud.
Subframe
An ultra-light lightweight subframe takes charge at the rear of the main frame, featuring a 2-part polyamide and reinforced aluminum construction. With the help of computational dynamics, a specific rigidity was engineered into the subframe, to deliver outstanding handling and rider feedback. This compact subframe design also boasts the the ability to bend and flex in the event of a crash, rather than break, with the subframe fully integrating electronic components, without any extra need for brackets, holders, or unnecessary fixtures.
WP XACT Closed-Cartidge Fork
The proven 48 mm WP XACT Closed Cartridge fork has been updated with shorter, lighter main springs with a polished surface and a new pressure resevoir and one-piece hydrostop, which improve durability and reduces weight by 200 grams.
WP XPLOR Shock
Remaining a hallmark of KTM Enduro weaponry, the PDS rear shock has received no hardware changes, but updated settings throughout the complete line-up match the new fork set up. This remains the most reliable and maintenance-friendly option for competitive enduro racing.
Wheels and Tires
The KTM Enduro line-up rolls on a set of high-strength GIANT alloy wheels coupled to CNC-machined hubs and aluminum nipples. These are wrapped in a set of ultra-grippy Maxxis MaxxEnduro tires providing exceptional traction in all conditions.
Stability
The KTM Enduro range remains rock-solid at any speed thanks to a repositioned and forged steering head connection and CNC-milled triple clamps. Made from high-grade aluminum, these feature optimally tuned steering stem stiffness, perfect alignment of the fork tubes, and precise geometry of the fork clamps to ensure highly responsive and smooth fork action – not to mention unwavering stability for those ultra-fast flat-out special stages.
LED headlight
Lighting the way forward, the KTM Enduro range features an LED headlight unit and light mask. The mask itself features improved triple clamp protection against roost and does away with the rubber mounting straps for improved fitment. Most importantly, the LED lighting unit provides serious illumination, making riding in the dark a completely new experience.
