KTM 250 EXC SIX DAYS [2008-2011] Review: The Two-Stroke Trail Titan That Redefined Playful Performance

Introduction

The KTM 250 EXC Six Days (2008-2011) remains a cult favorite among enduro enthusiasts, embodying the raw spirit of two-stroke performance while delivering surprising refinement. Built as a homage to KTM's International Six Days Enduro (ISDE) racing heritage, this machine straddles the line between competition-ready aggression and trail-friendly versatility. Let's dissect why this orange menace continues to haunt used bike markets and trailheads alike.

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Design & Ergonomics: A Cockpit For Conquest

The Six Days edition immediately announces its special status with bold graphics and race-inspired aesthetics. The 2008-2011 refresh brought a slimmer profile, with KTM's engineers shaving millimeters wherever possible. At 925mm (36.4"), the seat height remains intimidating for shorter riders, but the narrowed contact points create an illusion of accessibility.

Key updates in this generation included: - Revised bodywork: The sculpted radiator shrouds and seat profile lock riders into a commanding "attack position" - Optimized kickstarter: Redesigned lever geometry reduces starting effort - crucial when stalling mid-hillclimb - Slimmer fuel tank: 9.5L (2.5 gal) capacity strikes balance between range and weight distribution

Standout details like the CNC-machined hubs and zinc/nickel-coated spokes weren't just bling - they contributed to a dry weight of just 103kg (227 lbs), making this feel more like a mountain bike with a jet engine.

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Engine Character: Two-Stroke Theatre At Its Finest

The 249cc liquid-cooled two-stroke is the star here, delivering a masterclass in controlled violence. Unlike modern fuel-injected counterparts, the Keihin MX FCR 39 carburetor gives riders tactile control over the powerband.

Low-end: Surprisingly tractable below 5,000 RPM thanks to: - 12.8:1 compression ratio - Redesigned intake snorkel (2009 update) - Exhaust valve tuning

Mid-range: This is where the magic happens. The patented KTM power valve system transforms the engine character from 6,000 RPM onward, delivering a surge that'll have you instinctively weighting the rear wheel.

Top-end: Not for the faint-hearted. The 66.4 x 72.0mm bore/stroke combo screams to 9,500 RPM with minimal vibration, though the sweet spot lives between 7,000-8,500 RPM for technical terrain.

The 6-speed transmission deserves praise for its: - Ultra-short 1st gear (13:33 ratio) for rock crawling - Overdrive 6th (26:22) that tames highway stretches - Hydraulic clutch requiring just one-finger operation

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Suspension & Handling: Precision Meets Plushness

KTM's partnership with WP Suspension yielded a chassis that redefined expectations for off-road compliance:

Front End
- 48mm USD forks with 300mm (11.8") travel - Open-cartridge design allows mid-stroke support without harshness - Adjustable compression/rebound (20 clicks each)

Rear End
- Progressive PDS (Piston Damping System) shock - 335mm (13.2") wheel travel - High/low-speed compression adjustability

The 26.5° rake and 112mm (4.4") trail create razor-sharp steering - almost too quick for beginners. Combined with the central-tube chromoly frame's lateral stiffness, the bike carves ruts like a BMX yet remains stable at 80+ km/h (50+ mph).

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Competition: How The Six Days Stacks Up

The 250cc enduro class during this era was fiercely contested. Here's how the KTM measured against key rivals:

1. Yamaha WR250F (2008-2011)
2. Four-stroke torque vs two-stroke hit
3. 7kg (15lbs) heavier but more planted at speed

4. Requires more maintenance (valve adjustments)

5. Husqvarna TE250 (2008-2011)

6. Similar weight/power but cable-clutch feel
7. Sachs suspension less progressive than WP

8. Parts availability still lags KTM's network

9. Gas Gas EC250 (2008-2011)

10. Softer power delivery, better for technical trails
11. Chromoly frame less rigid during hard charging
12. Smaller dealer network impacts support

The Six Days' ace card remains its race-bred immediacy. While competitors often compromised for trail comfort, the KTM delivered track-ready reflexes without punishing riders on marathon trail days.

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Maintenance: Keeping The Orange Beast Alive

As MOTOPARTS.store's in-house enduro specialist, here's my maintenance cheat sheet:

Critical Components
- Piston/rings: Replace every 80-100 hours (sooner with aggressive riding) - Air filter: Clean every 15-20 hours (use no-toil oil for easier service) - Suspension seals: Annual rebuild recommended for WP components

Common Upgrades
1. Carburetor mods: JD Jet Kit ($80) transforms low-end response 2. Skid plates: Replace plastic OEM with aluminum (3mm minimum) 3. Chain guides: Upgrade to aftermarket roller-type for rocky terrain

MOTOPARTS.store Recommendations
- Wheel bearings: Pivot Works kits prevent premature wear - Brake pads: EBC Double-H sintered pads combat fade - Grips: ODI Lock-On system eliminates throttle play

Pro Tip: The 22:68 primary drive ratio is bulletproof, but inspect the counter shaft seal annually - a common leak point.

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Conclusion: Timeless Trail Weapon

The 2008-2011 KTM 250 EXC Six Days endures as a benchmark for pure two-stroke exhilaration. It rewards skilled riders with telepathic handling yet remains accessible enough to help intermediates progress. While newer bikes offer electric starts and fuel injection, none replicate the visceral thrill of this carbureted screamer.

For owners, the aftermarket support through MOTOPARTS.store ensures these machines can stay competitive against modern machinery. Whether you're chasing ISDE glory or weekend singletrack, this KTM remains a passport to two-wheeled freedom.

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Specifications sheet

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