KTM 300 EXC SIX DAYS [2021-2022] Review: The Ultimate Two-Stroke Enduro Weapon
Introduction
The KTM 300 EXC SIX DAYS needs no introduction among hardcore enduro riders. This motorcycle represents the pinnacle of two-stroke off-road engineering, refined over decades of racing heritage. The 2021-2022 generation, part of KTM's special "Six Days" lineage celebrating the brand's International Six Days Enduro (ISDE) participation, brings together cutting-edge technology and race-proven performance. Let's dissect why this machine continues to dominate trails worldwide.
Design & Ergonomics: Built for Battle
The Six Days edition stands out with its aggressive styling, featuring signature orange frame accents and year-specific color trims (2021 models flaunt green/red highlights, while 2022 shifts to blue/red). At 103.9 kg (229.1 lbs) dry weight, it feels shockingly light when muscling through technical terrain. The 960 mm (37.8") seat height might intimidate shorter riders, but the narrow chassis design allows confident footing once you're moving.
KTM's chrome-molybdenum steel frame strikes a perfect balance between rigidity and flex. Combined with the WP Xplor 48 USD fork offering 300 mm (11.8") of travel and WP PDS rear shock with 310 mm (12.2") travel, the bike maintains composure over brutal impacts. Ground clearance of 370 mm (14.6") lets you glide over obstacles that would stall lesser machines.
Engine Performance: Two-Stroke Revolution
The 293cc two-stroke engine with Transfer Port Injection (TPI) is a game-changer. Forget messy premixing – the TPI system automatically injects oil into the fuel mixture, delivering cleaner combustion and consistent power. With 72mm bore x 72mm stroke dimensions, this square-engine design produces 50+ horsepower (estimated) and torque that'll yank your arms sockets over tree roots.
Key highlights:
- Electric starter: No more kick-start drama in awkward positions
- 6-speed transmission: Wide ratios for tight singletrack (13:50 final drive) and faster transfer sections
- Brembo hydraulic clutch: Featherlight modulation even after hours of technical riding
The powerband feels telepathic. Below 4,000 RPM, it chugs like a tractor up impossible climbs. Crack the throttle open, and the hit comes on strong but controllable – no old-school two-stroke light-switch surprises. Fuel consumption of 2.79L/100km (84.3 mpg) is remarkable for a performance-oriented machine.
On the Trail: Riding Impressions
Throwing a leg over the 300 EXC SIX DAYS immediately reveals its racing DNA. The ergonomics are purposeful – handlebars fall naturally to hand, footpegs sit low for optimal weight distribution, and the 9L (2.38-2.51 gal) fuel tank keeps mass centralized.
Technical terrain is where this bike shines. The combination of 26.5° rake and 1482mm (58.3") wheelbase creates a razor-sharp steering response. During a brutal hill climb littered with baby-head rocks, the WP suspension soaked up impacts while maintaining traction. The Brembo brakes (260mm front/220mm rear discs) offered surgical precision when dropping into steep ravines.
In high-speed sections, the chassis remains stable. The PDS rear suspension eliminates linkage maintenance hassles without sacrificing bump absorption. At 100 km/h (62 mph) on gravel roads, the bike tracks straight as an arrow despite its offroad-focused 21"/18" wheel setup.
Competition: How It Stacks Up
The 300cc enduro class is fiercely contested. Here's how the KTM fares against key rivals:
- Husqvarna TE 300i
- Shares same engine/platform but with different mapping
- Softer suspension setup favors trail riders over racers
-
Lacks Six Days edition's premium components
-
Beta 300 RR
- More beginner-friendly power delivery
- Heavier at 108.5 kg (239 lbs)
-
Conventional oil injection vs TPI's precision
-
GasGas EC 300
- Similar performance (same corporate family as KTM)
- Lower-spec suspension components
- Less refined cockpit layout
The KTM dominates in component quality – Brembo brakes, CNC-machined triple clamps, and Pro Taper handlebars come stock. Racers will appreciate the aggressive ergonomics, while recreational riders benefit from the TPI's user-friendly operation.
Maintenance: Keeping the Beast Alive
While the 300 EXC SIX DAYS is built tough, proper care ensures longevity. As MOTOPARTS.store journalists, we recommend these key maintenance focus areas:
- TPI System Care
- Use JASO-FD certified injector oil
-
Replace fuel filters every 40 hours
Upgrade Tip: Install a clear inline fuel filter for visual monitoring -
Air Filter Maintenance
- Clean after every 10-15 hours (foam filter)
-
Use biodegradable cleaners to preserve foam
Pro Choice: Twin Air filters with pre-oiled options -
Suspension Service
- Change fork oil every 100 hours
-
Rebuild shock annually for hardcore use
Performance Boost: SKF seals for extended service intervals -
Drive Components
- 520 chain requires regular lubrication
-
Replace sprockets when hooked by 1mm
Durability Hack: DID VT2 Enduro chains last 30% longer -
Cooling System
- Replace coolant annually with silicate-free formula
- Check hoses for abrasion near frame
Essential Upgrade: High-pressure radiator cap prevents boil-overs
Conclusion: The Enduro King Reigns
The KTM 300 EXC SIX DAYS [2021-2022] isn't just a motorcycle – it's a statement. This generation perfected the two-stroke enduro formula with its TPI technology, race-ready components, and obsessive weight reduction. Whether you're battling ISDE-style courses or exploring backcountry trails, it delivers unmatched capability.
While the stock setup is already exceptional, MOTOPARTS.store offers everything from performance exhausts to bulletproof skid plates to make it truly yours. Aftermarket support for this model is staggering – a testament to its enduring popularity.
In a world increasingly dominated by four-strokes, the 300 EXC SIX DAYS keeps the two-stroke flame burning bright. It's not just competitive; it's the benchmark by which all others are judged.
Specifications sheet
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Stroke: | Two-stroke |
| Fuel system: | Transfer Port Injection (TPI) |
| Lubrication: | Premix-free oil injection (separate 2-stroke oil reservoir) |
| Displacement: | 293 ccm |
| Bore x stroke: | 72.0 x 72.0 mm (2.8 x 2.8 in) |
| Configuration: | Single |
| Cooling system: | Liquid |
| Number of cylinders: | 1 |
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase: | 1482 mm (58.3 in) |
| Dry weight: | 104 |
| Seat height: | 960 mm (37.8 in) |
| Ground clearance: | 370 mm (14.6 in) |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 9.5 L (2.51 US gal) |
| Drivetrain | |
|---|---|
| Chain type: | X-Ring 5/8 x 1/4 |
| Final drive: | chain |
| Transmission: | 6-speed |
| Primary drive: | 26:72 |
| Rear sprocket: | 50 |
| Front sprocket: | 14 |
| Maintainance | |
|---|---|
| Coolant: | Water-based coolant with anti-freeze |
| Brake fluid: | DOT 4 or 5.1 |
| Gearbox oil capacity: | 0.6 |
| Gearbox oil (2-stroke engine): | SAE 10W-40 or 10W-50 (common practice) |
| 2-stroke oil reservoir capacity: | 0.7-0.8 L (estimated) |
| Recommended tire pressure (rear): | 1.0 bar (14.5 psi) |
| Recommended tire pressure (front): | 1.0 bar (14.5 psi) |
| Additional Features | |
|---|---|
| ABS: | Not equipped (standard for off-road models) |
| Battery: | 2 Ah lithium-ion |
| Starter: | Electric |
| TPI System: | Electronic oil injection with separate tank |
| Chassis and Suspension | |
|---|---|
| Frame: | Chrome-molybdenum steel central-tube frame |
| Rear tire: | 2.15-18 |
| Front tire: | 1.60-21 |
| Rear brakes: | Single 220 mm disc, Brembo 1-piston floating caliper |
| Front brakes: | Single 220 mm disc, Brembo 2-piston floating caliper |
| Rear suspension: | WP Xplor PDS shock absorber (310 mm travel) |
| Front suspension: | WP-USD Xplor 48 fork, preload adjustable (300 mm travel) |
| Rake (fork angle): | 26.5° |
