The 2025 GasGas EC 250 and KTM 250 EXC are both 249cc, throttle-body fuel-injected two-stroke enduro motorcycles. While they share the same engine platform and 6-speed gearbox, they differ significantly in suspension setup and dimensions.
Who Each Bike Suits
The GasGas EC 250 fits riders looking for a linkage-equipped rear suspension and a slightly lower seat height. It serves as the smaller full-size two-stroke in the brand's lineup, offering a lighter-revving engine than the 300.
The KTM 250 EXC suits riders who prefer the PDS rear suspension system without linkage, a design that eliminates the low-hanging linkage mechanism. In the US, this bike is sold as the 250 XC-W.
Key Differences
- Suspension: The GasGas uses a WP XACT rear shock with linkage (300 mm travel) and a WP XPLOR 48 mm open-cartridge front fork. The KTM features a WP XPLOR rear shock with PDS (no linkage, 310 mm travel) and a WP XACT 48 mm front fork.
- Weight: The KTM is lighter at 104.6 kg (without fuel) compared to the GasGas at 107.6 kg (without fuel). Both use the same measurement standard, making the KTM 3 kg lighter.
- Dimensions: The GasGas has a seat height of 956 mm, which is lower than the KTM's 963 mm. Conversely, the GasGas has a higher ground clearance of 354 mm compared to the KTM's 347 mm.
- Price: The GasGas lists for $10,499 in the US before freight. The KTM 250 EXC does not have a US list price under that name; however, the US equivalent model, the 250 XC-W, is priced at $11,199.
- Shared Specs: Both bikes have a 9-liter fuel tank and an electric starter. Neither manufacturer publishes horsepower figures for these models.
Which Should You Buy?
Your choice primarily comes down to rear suspension preference and budget. If you want rear linkage and a slightly lower purchase price, the GasGas EC 250 is the clear option. If you prefer the simplicity of a PDS rear shock and do not mind the higher price of the US-equivalent 250 XC-W, the KTM is the better fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do these bikes use carburetors?
No, both the 2025 GasGas EC 250 and KTM 250 EXC use throttle-body fuel injection. This replaces the traditional carburetor.
Which bike is lighter?
The KTM 250 EXC weighs 104.6 kg (without fuel), while the GasGas EC 250 weighs 107.6 kg (without fuel). Since both use the same measurement method, the KTM is directly comparable and 3 kg lighter.
What is the difference in rear suspension?
The GasGas uses a WP XACT shock with linkage providing 300 mm of travel. The KTM uses a WP XPLOR shock with a PDS system (no linkage), giving 310 mm of travel.
How much do they cost in the US?
The GasGas EC 250 has a US list price of $10,499 before freight. The KTM 250 EXC model name has no US list price, but it is sold in the US as the 250 XC-W for $11,199.