This page covers the 2025 GasGas EC 250 and 2025 KTM 300 EXC (previously known to some riders as the KTM 300 EXC TPI). Both are throttle-body fuel-injected two-stroke enduro bikes, but they use different suspension designs and engine displacements.
Who Each Bike Suits
The GasGas EC 250 suits riders who prefer a lighter-revving 249 cc engine and linkage rear suspension. The 956 mm seat height is slightly lower than the KTM, which can benefit riders navigating tight trails where dabbing a foot is necessary.
The KTM 300 EXC suits riders looking for the reference 293.2 cc two-stroke enduro bike. It features PDS no-linkage rear suspension, which provides more clearance over logs and rocks without a linkage hanging below the swingarm.
Key Differences
- Engine: The KTM has a larger 293.2 cc engine compared to the GasGas's 249 cc displacement. Manufacturers do not publish horsepower for these bikes, so compare them by displacement and engine behavior.
- Suspension: The GasGas uses a WP XACT shock with linkage (300 mm travel) and a WP XPLOR 48 mm open-cartridge front fork. The KTM uses a WP XPLOR 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) versus the GasGas at 107.6 kg (without fuel).
- Dimensions: The GasGas has a lower seat height (956 mm vs 963 mm) but more ground clearance (354 mm vs 347 mm).
- Price and Availability: The GasGas has a US list price of $10,499 (before freight). The KTM 300 EXC has no US list price under this model name, but is sold in the US as the 300 XC-W for $11,599.
- Both models share a 9 L fuel tank, a 6-speed gearbox, and an electric starter.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the GasGas EC 250 for the traditional linkage suspension feel, a slightly lower seat height, and a lighter-revving 250 engine. Choose the KTM 300 EXC for a larger displacement engine, the simplicity and clearance of PDS rear suspension, and a slightly lower overall weight without fuel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do these bikes have carburetors?
No, both the 2025 GasGas EC 250 and KTM 300 EXC use throttle-body fuel injection systems.
What is the weight difference?
The KTM 300 EXC weighs 104.6 kg without fuel, while the GasGas EC 250 weighs 107.6 kg without fuel.
Are they both available in the US?
The GasGas EC 250 is listed at $10,499 in the US. The KTM 300 EXC name is not used in the US, but the equivalent model is sold as the 300 XC-W for $11,599.
How does the rear suspension differ?
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 lacking linkage, offering 310 mm of travel.