Second ride on my new 2022.5 KTM 250SXF Factory Edition. The track was drier and rougher on this ride and I spent more time trying different suspension settings. Thoughts after the second ride...

Engine has quicker turnover compared to the 21 250SXF but still not YZ250F or even CRF250R level but close considering the tall stock 14/51 gearing on the KTM 250 Factory Edition (CRF and YZF are geared lower). Mid range power is noticeably better than the previous 250SXF engine with a more responsive and lively feel and it still feels like it will rev out and pull strong to peak RPM. I like Map 1 for the longer and more linear pull but also like the quicker response feel of Map 2. Overall peak power feels similar to current 250SXF. The quick shifter is cool but seems to take a lot of effort at the lever to shift. I need more ride time using the QS to really understand the value but nice for KTM to have the feature.

The AER forks feel similar to my 21.5 450 Factory Edition forks in overall performance but there is much more bottoming resistance with the updated bottoming system. There is a little more comfort on slap down landings but not sure if that is a fork setting or the new chassis. AER forks respond well to clicker and air pressure changes so can be set up for a wide variety of rider skills and weights. I like the light feel at the handle bars of AER forks. On this second day of riding the track became very dry, choppy, and rough. I wanted more absorption from the suspension and better tire contact patch feel so used the myKTM app and went to the Basic/Enduro/Classic setting for a 21 KTM 250 Troy Lee Factory Edition (no option for the 22 250 Factory Edition in the myKTM app yet). This setting gave me a lot more comfort and still offered good damping control with a plush feel and added more weight to the front end and even with the lower air pressure the forks did not bottom. The new bottoming system works. The all new rear shock feels well damped yet not harsh though I did open the clickers to get more comfort on the rougher track. The rear of the bike has more comfort which may be a combination of new shock/composite upper subframe/excellent seat foam. Overall the chassis felt planted in the choppy track conditions today.

The new radiator shrouds/side panels/ergos feel near Honda perfect and provide a continuous contact with the bike. The new foot pegs have excellent grip and 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. In motion the KTM 250 Factory Edition does not “feel” as lightweight as the '22 CRF250R but is close and less busy (up front) with a more planted overall feel. The '22 YZ250F still sets the suspension bar but ergos not as good as the KTM and feels heavier in motion. Biggest changes on 250FE are mid range power, more comfort from the rear, and great ergos. More riding videos on the new '22.5 KTM 250 Factory Edition coming soon!

Here is my first ride impressions video....
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Here is my walk around and quick ride video....
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