2023 250 Motocross Shootout - Cycle News

[@Davido50]

Most comprehensive review ive seen of all.. this yr! Great job. Thanks. 👍🏻-NY

[@Davido50]

Excellent thorough review & evaluation guys. Can't find new Yamaha YZ250Fs within 3hrs of where i live. Def have wanted to try an Austrian brand. This info may sway me (if can't order a '23 YZ250F somewhere). -Ohio

[@cyclenews]

Thank you for the support and good luck on your search!

[@ericpujols]

Hey CycleNews, quick question.. you guys mentioned that one of the reasons that the KTM beat out the Husky was because of durability and pointed out the brakes and clutch specifically. My understanding was that both the clutch and brakes are actually exactly the same (Brembo and internals) between both bikes (at least it is on the 450s). Is that not the case still? Either way, great review as always! 👍🏼 Thank you!

[@cyclenews]

Brakes and clutch are the same on both bikes (believe they're actually the same on the GasGas too). Think we overlooked that when talking about the Husky so wanted to make sure we mentioned it with the KTM. Thanks for the support!

[@ryangalbraith7080]

I own a 2023 kx250x and it has an extra tooth on the back sprocket for a little more low-end do you think that's a good thing did any of your test riders mention that it would help to gear it lower?

[@cyclenews]

That would definitely help it spool up out of a turn. Try the aggressive coupler too.

[@amikhael5135]

Nice shootout. Maybe you could enter more in details like cornering ability, stability etc...of each bike ;)

[@cyclenews]

Noted!

[@dankruger2890]

Ktm, Kawi, Yamaha and Honda are all in the same boat engine wise. If the other guys simply add the phone mapping to their engines the Shootout would be super tough. KTM seems to be pushing the advancements the most.

[@mikeb4708]

Hey Jesse! I thought it was a good test focused on pointing out the differences in the characteristics of power, handing and suspension on all 6 bikes. The only critical thing I can say about your shootout is that the bikes but are supposed to be numbered consecutively and not have the same number in each bike! 😂

[@cyclenews]

We use the same number as the model year. That way when we look back through archives it's easier to tell the year.

[@cyclenews]

But thank you for the kind words and support!

[@jamessharp9790]

How did the RMZ or the TM do ?

[@cyclenews]

We rode the RM-Z but not the TM.

[@jamessharp9790]

@@cyclenews I missed where the Rmz placed . I’ll check it again later. Ty for the shootout and posting it .

[@sdb92]

RM-Z 🤙🏻 TM 💩

[@902_Nick]

No bar height issues with the ktm ? @cyclenews

[@cyclenews]

None of our riders made a mention about it

[@902_Nick]

@@cyclenews awesome, thanks for the quick reply

[@cdbnum1]

Suzuki is still the best looking bike in my opinion.

[@Davido50]

Get one! Ride. 💯

[@jongib6096]

The Yamaha YZ dominates every review

[@randal3122]

ya in the 250 class they are superior because of the engine power and KYB

[@randal3122]

that being said, i have a yz250f and i am about to get a 2023 ktm 350 sxf. i dont know if ill be able to get myself to sell the yamaha though. that bike is really awesome

[@goldmx1229]

Im buying this week a 2023 im coming from many years on a 125 Im between Yz or Kx wich one fell or is skinnier? Im looking for something close to a 125 feeling, I see yamaha like wider.

[@cyclenews]

Kawi definitely feels skinnier than the Yamaha

[@goldmx1229]

@@cyclenews That’s what I thought, Don’t care Yz is bike of the year and maybe little prettier but is time to change pretty sure Im buying Kx, Thanks Cycle News 🗞️

[@kolbylynn6446]

I have a 22 kx and I love it. The only real maintenance it has needed in 45 hrs is greasing the bearings and regular maintenance. Clutch plates still look good valves are still in spec. But now that it’s winter Im tearing it down to the frame and putting a timing with a top end

[@goldmx1229]

@@kolbylynn6446 Thanks man

[@brandonbladen4691]

Everyone loves the Yamaha. It’s the easiest bike for most riders to hop on. The power is good and you don’t have to shift as often as other brands. The suspension is the best and has been since 2006. I have a 22 TC250 smoker and Yamahas forks are way better than my air fork. I’ve ridden both back to back and they are straight up better than everything. Honda is the best looking and the motor is good but the forks are too stiff for 250 guys. Kawi is hard to ride because it makes power really high on the curve and it handles poorly because the motor is too far back in its 450 frame so it’s hard to turn. Ktm and husky are the same minus the color and airbox. Gas gas is last years bike and will be all new next year. Suzuki would be an amazing option for any buyer if the springs were the right rate. It handles amazing and is incredibly reliable. No bike is a bad bike… they all suit different riders. If I were buying a 250f I would get a Yamaha or a Honda.

[@cyclenews]

You're pretty spot on.

[@brandonbladen4691]

@@cyclenews I'm a salesman at a dealership. Its important for me to ride as many as I can and learn about the brands I sell and more importantly.. the ones I don't sell.

[@Runk3lsmcdougal]

Not everyone, I hate it

[@brandonbladen4691]

@@Runk3lsmcdougal k man…. Send Yamaha an email.

[@Runk3lsmcdougal]

@@brandonbladen4691k man Change your first sentence, first.

[@RadioReprised]

There is no difference for the rider compartment except the bars on the KTM and Husky...lowered suspension does not effect the triangle. As for the power of the three Austrians, everybody knows to drill the sidepanel and equalize them. Gas Gas has intentionally gone softer on the suspension so it's not a fault and can be fixed easily, plus the value is there without gimmicks you may never use. Which bike circulates the Track fastest? 3 laps each by the best Rider on all bikes would be interesting.

[@marvs.1657]

for me honda the best bike

[@cyclenews]

👍👍

[@joseamoguez1867]

Agree we can see the results on race nowadays the hondas win races unanimously 1st and 2nd on 450s 1st place on 250 respectively.....

[@stevemx2778]

Nice review But you doesnt talk about the lot of engine reliability issues and the poor airbox design of the yz250f…

[@cyclenews]

We haven't had issues with that before. Have you?

[@herbcanter2114]

There are ZERO reliability problems with the YZ's. What the hell are you even talking about ? Yamaha's are the most reliable bikes made and always take first place in reliability . Honda always takes second with Suzuki 3rd and Kawi 4th .

[@herbcanter2114]

That's because THERE IS NO ENGINE RELIABILITY ISSUES !!!!

[@stevemx2778]

Yes à lot of people where i live Gearbox issues Cam chain And cranck I think Yamaha was good in the past, maybe before Covid But today i think ktm is most reliable And even suzuki blow a lot We ride soft sandy Tracks in europe

[@stevemx2778]

You can see even on vital mx forums…

[@Davido50]

KTM 250SXF all the way...tho none are bad! 💯 -NY

[@Adv.Wannabe]

Would the Suzuki finish ahead of the GasGas if entered?

[@cyclenews]

The kickstart and weight unfortunately hold it back

[@Davido50]

RMZ250 is still a great bike ! If you can find one get it. They sold out near me in Ohio. As are the Yamaha & KTM - 3.

[@Adv.Wannabe]

@@Davido50 every Suzuki dealer in KY by me usually has at least one. I have no doubt they are a great bike. Haven’t ridden moto in 10 years. Thinking about coming back to the 30+ class just for fun and the price is always right.

[@Adiline164]

Why is Suzuki not keeping up with the times , not only with dirt bikes but atvs also , they’re the only ones who haven’t developed a side by side. Sucks to see because Suzuki has always been super competitive and reliable, I’d hate to see them go out of business but they gotta get back in the game

[@deankruse4491]

Suzuki just pulled out of MotoGP this season as well. Seems that their street machines are also lacking in upgrades.

[@Davido50]

They will come bk hopefully. Still great dirtbikes tho. Esp if ya don't race. -NY

[@rileymouritz5628]

need to test bikes on a rough track with actual bumps 🙏

[@cyclenews]

That's what we do👍

[@rileymouritz5628]

@@cyclenews just saying test the bikes to there potential and limits. maybe mix it up instead of just on 2 smooth graded tracks

[@IzekEspinoza]

@@rileymouritz5628 i completely understand where your coming from bro. i just feel these bikes are track bikes more than trail bikes. the consumers that buy these either race or go out each weekend for track days. these tracks seem to be diverse with their terrain.

[@dr.hugog.hackenbush9443]

I think I'll save a truckload of money and stick with my old faster, lighter 2-stroke..

[@cyclenews]

Right on mate.

[@prestonpeglow105]

No one cares 😂

[@vaughanhodgson]

faster lol

[@coltonfarley775]

Lmao. What ever helps you sleep at night bro

[@Davido50]

Your LOSS

[@rfair123]

Would be nice to see how the Factory edition Gas Gas and KTM stack up

[@cyclenews]

Great idea! Next time

[@MrHellga]

The GAS GAS Factory edition will be on the podium for sure!

[@calebclevenger1695]

Well I’m bummed. Im 6’7 and was about to buy the huskie

[@cyclenews]

You can make any bike work, these are just our opinions🤷

[@medjoolmaker]

⬇🏆🏆🏆yamaha for the win 🏆🏆🏆

[@cyclenews]

👍

[@bradnewman3565]

I am thinking about trying a Kawasaki this year. But after watching the mxa shootout . They say it handles and turns poorly. All other shootouts say the opposite. I don’t know what to believe

[@amacoutdoors2076]

I have a 2022 and it's great. Most of that stuff is so rider preference and feedback. I am sure there is some truth to it but I have ridden other bikes and for me it's what I am comfy on. Give it a shot I say. Its also thinner in the front than the KTM's and people always say those bikes are thiner for some reason.

[@bradnewman3565]

We raced KTMs last year. I always trim the front fender. I like to see the rut’s. Now the front fender is even wider? No sold on the air forks. My son gets arm pump with them

[@cyclenews]

Here's our video on the new Kawi. Think it mostly depends on rider preference / ability level - kzbin.info/www/bejne/m6XCqp6AZtFrnM0

[@ryangalbraith7080]

I have a 2023 kx250X and it handles great just need to be patient and get you're suspension set up right.The motor is unbelievable and rev's to the moon. Definitely the fastest 250f I've ever ridden.

[@3rdlineplug]

I’m not sure why they feel that way. The newer model Kawasaki’s corner great and are very stable at speed. The one knock I’ll give is that some of their parts quality are not very good.

[@gregmaggio5217]

It's obvious Yamaha is King, but a valiant effort by the others for sure..

[@cyclenews]

👍👍

[@randal3122]

yes in the 250 class for sure

[@chrisbeerad8835]

been on ktm for 2 years im goin honda now no question . ktms have too small of a window where they corner well and take more effort..honda is way more forgiving to my less than perfect technique

[@cyclenews]

Solid bike, just took us a little longer to dial in than the others. With enough time, you'll be stoked.

[@charlesclapper8982]

so some 994 bars should be on point with taller bars ?? 5 10 guy

[@grantdenno4315]

suzuki??

[@cyclenews]

Click to 02:54 to see the Suzuki RM-Z250.

[@michellatour150]

Just look up shootouts/reviews from 2019, the 2023 is the same bike unchanged since.

[@lukemiles5175]

ktm bar pad connectivity is better then the yamaha connectivity

[@cyclenews]

Bar pad connectivity? KTM did away with their phone app endeavor.

[@JesseLZiegler]

I can't believe more of you aren't calling me out for not setting up Ryan's mic properly! You need to roast me about that. I sucked, big time on his settings. He sounds better, in person, trust me!

[@tanjol8998]

Where is the kick stater suzuki?

[@cyclenews]

At 2:54 - Suzuki RM-Z250

[@michellatour150]

Where is it? It's still back in 2019, unchanged.

[@holdenjackson2182]

The 2023 Honda is made to be handled like it’s your bitch

[@Davido50]

Yea basically. Not impressed by it too much. Can't find a '23 YZ250F anywhere near me..either goin Kawi or KTM. All new bikes are good tho even RMZ250 (that's even hard to find!). -NY

[@sambuvca22]

Suzuki has fallen off the market completly. It started with Arctic cat when they chose to partner with yamaha. then Kawasaki. What left do they have? Certainly not the marine market. Never thought Suzuki would die out

[@devinwillis7787]

They sell scooters in Asia and make more money than they ever would with offroad

[@Davido50]

They are still OK. Tho ppl buy KTM 250SXF! -NY

[@Davido50]

@devinwillis7787 this is a USA relevant test tho. -NY

[@lmtada]

Does Sc1 make the bike faster? Lighter? Better Handling, Better Suspended? 😂

[@Tukball]

Look pro go slow baby

[@Dixoncider1973]

rmz wins again

[@cyclenews]

💛💛💛

[@Davido50]

Love Maxima oil products but there plastic spray made the black plastic on my near $12k Yamaha Raptor 700R-SE quad fade. Had to buy a new plastic panel! Wtf.

[@JKrause616]

Oh no. If you have $12k for a 4-wheeler, you should have the money for a plastic panel.

[@jimbeaux89]

So weird to see Suzuki giving up and pulling out of Motorsports.

[@Tukball]

I swear somebody in these comments would complain about anything you all do like you owe it to them to be utterly perfect 😂 ranking is all what you like personally. These tests are a guideline into what you may like and to be informed not the dead nuts truth for what you should get

[@cyclenews]

Thank you for being a logical human! Very rare these days. We salute you.

[@corvette_jake7225]

Anyone else think the gas gas just looks odd?

[@cyclenews]

How so?

[@corvette_jake7225]

@Cycle News I'm not exactly sure, just every time I look at a new gas gas I think they don't quite look right. Maybe it's the silver rims, or maybe I'm just not used to seeing a red bike that's not a honda. There is just something I find odd about looking at the side profile of a new gas gas. Maybe I've smoked too much weed tonight, but looking at them on Google gives me late 90s yz250 vibes

[@bobbymoonboots4200]

Because it doesn’t have black wheels, 100% the reason

[@caydenthompson126]

@@corvette_jake7225 Prob because you're high lol

[@mixtips637]

Yup

[@michaelmays9292]

Where's the Triumph 250 supposed to race the 2023 AMA Supercross

[@cyclenews]

That won't come out until later this year.

[@ronykurniawanchannel9662]

Kawasaki the beast

[@cyclenews]

Nice

[@Brodie982]

Up the kawi

[@cyclenews]

Thanks

[@bikelifewithalex120]

guess what I ride?

[@Aacula]

Ok I did. Was I right?

[@Davido50]

KTM always here! 💯 -NY

[@chrisvillarreal2752]

Best bike last year is last and the bike with the most quirks is somehow second and the bike that sounds the worst looks and peona alt has the worst longevity has the best suspension and that alone wins the whole thing. And now we’re getting sensitive about going ape shit on oem and aftermarket companies for making products that wear faster and brake down quicker and suspension that they have that they know is better yet still run some random bum shit… I say Suzuki takes 1st for never giving into the bullshit and still putting out a dirtbike that starts jumps and turns 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@cyclenews]

Thanks Chris for the support! But you must've missed that the Yamaha also won last year so saying the "Best bike last year is last" would be incorrect.

[@drkaymotorsports]

Well now I know not to listen to you since you said the KTM/Husky/GASGAS aren't the same. They are the same damn thing.

[@cyclenews]

Thanks Kay for the nice comment!

[@nathanielostrowski2437]

For 2023. KTM/HUSKY run same frame/engine but run different maps, fork tuning and some different components. GASGAS is on the old frame/engine 2018-2022. So yes they are different and all feel different

[@Pugman69420]

Lol idiot

[@jonathanstickel254]

Another WFO zero skill track test. Nothing to learn here just a big commercial

[@cyclenews]

Thanks for watching!!