2025 KTM 350XCF vs 2023 Husqvarna TX300 Back to Back on a Short Woods Loop

2025 KTM 350XCF vs 2025 Husqvarna TX300 Heritage Edition back to back on a short woods loop. Two of my current favorite dirt bikes: 350 Thumper and 300 Smoker! 4-stroke vs 2-stroke! Which has the better lap time? Let's ride them and find out!
2023 Husqvarna TX300 Heritage Edition Lap Time 2:48.5
The latest Austrian 300 TBI 2-stroke engines have strong (MXA says 55hp) linear power with impressive partial throttle torque feel. The latest chassis is a great balance of cornering and stability at speed. I like the look and feel of the Husky graphics and plastic, especially the Heritage Edition. Low vibration, little engine braking, and responsive power make for a quick handling bike. The Heritage plastic and colors have an 80's vibe but the big power and quick handling are modern day.
2025 KTM 350XCF Lap Time 2:43.5
350's have long been my favorite overall combination of Power/Weight/Handling and this updated chassis and the latest 350 engine continues the tradition. This is the best stock 350 engine I've ridden to date. I've ridden a '23 350SXF many times but this 25 350XCF engine seems to run a bit smoother at the initial turn of the throttle and feels crisper and a little stronger in the mid range and continues to pull from mid to top. One of the best overall 4-stroke dirt bike engines available today and with the Connectivity Unit Offroad the power character can be dialed in. For this ride I used the Gravel/Wet power map with throttle response and engine braking both minimized and Traction Control maximized. This combination made for a very smooth initial throttle response - great for woods riding. The latest XCF suspension setting feels very good. Plush enough for off road and enough hold up to work well for slow Vet moto.
I've been on the fence about getting a new Austrian 350. When the 25 350XCF showed up it last week it knocked me off the fence!
Here is my first ride impression on the 25 KTM 350XCF....
• 2025 KTM 350XCF First ...
Here is a recent ride on the TX300 at KickIn Roost MX... • 2023 TX300 Heritage Ed...