2023 KTM 250-350-450SXF Back to Back Comparison

Back to back ride today on a 22.5 KTM 250SXF Factory Edition, 23 KTM 350SXF, and 22.5 KTM 450SXF Factory at the Briarcliff C-track. Riding bikes back to back is a great way to understand the characteristics of different bikes. The 250 Factory Edition and 350SXF both had identical WP6500 cartridge spring fork kits installed while the 450 Factory Edition has WP Cone Valve spring forks. The 250 Factory Edition also has a full FMF titanium exhaust system. I am 10 weeks out on a total right hip replacement so riding easy on the C-track and no jumping but still able to get a feel for the different characteristics of each bike on this track today. My thoughts on each bike..... The 250SXF is all about compliant chassis and plush suspension. The engine makes smooth broad power that needs lots of RPM's (like all 250F's) to go fast, especially in the soft dirt. The FMF exhaust gives the bike a slightly quicker rev compared to the stock pipe and is loud, even with the insert installed. The 250FE is playful and feels agile and lightweight in motion. Next up was the 350SXF. Nothing stood out on the 350SXF which means it does everything well and matches your inputs with expected outputs. The new 350SXF engine has more low to mid power and feels more mini 450 like than previous 350's yet still pulls strong way up top if you feel like revving. Less agile than the 250SXF but a little more agile than the 450SXF. Maybe still the best overall combination of Power/Weight/Handling...