KTM 300 EXC vs KTM 450 EXC 2025: A Comparative Review

I vividly remember my unforgettable enduro trip in South Africa, riding alongside Alfie Cox through the rugged, diverse landscapes of the Coffee Bay region. As a passionate enduro rider, it was always a special experience for me to mount a bike capable of conquering the extreme challenges of off-road terrain. This journey was not only a celebration of freedom and adventure but also an opportunity to thoroughly compare two of the most renowned machines in the hard enduro segment from the KTM family – the KTM 300 EXC 2025 and the KTM 450 EXC 2025. I mainly rode the KTM 300 EXC, while 4-stroke enthusiast Alfie Cox was primarily on the EXC 450.

The first encounter with the KTM 300 EXC 2025 was marked by an incredible sense of lightness and agility. As I tackled tight corners and technical obstacles, I felt as though the bike was merging with me—it seemed to respond on command, making me feel one with the terrain with each twist of the throttle. The immediate response of the two-stroke engine, combined with the modern TBI injection, gave the bike a distinctly explosive character, yet it remained surprisingly controlled and predictable. In contrast, the KTM 450 EXC 2025 presented itself as a bike with a noticeably calmer yet more powerful power delivery. The four-stroke engine, with its richer torque curve and substantial flywheel, immediately conveyed a sense of stability and consistency. While I effortlessly navigated technical sections and tight turns on the 300 EXC, the 450 EXC's difference was most evident in situations where smooth power build-up and a gentler engine braking were advantageous. Both machines showcased their individual strengths in practice: the 300 EXC impressed with its nimbleness and light handling in critical passages, while the 450 EXC excelled with its calm and powerful response, particularly on longer, less technical routes.

During the South Africa tour, I gathered not only my own impressions but also drew on the experiences of Alfie Cox and the local enduro riders. The KTM 300 EXC is particularly hailed by many as the go-to machine for extremely technical sections and tight trails. Its lighter build and agile handling make it nearly unbeatable in situations where split-second timing and precise maneuvers are crucial. I vividly recall navigating a particularly twisty section, marked by jagged rocks and tight turns, with minimal effort. It was clear that the direct throttle response of the two-stroke engine—enhanced by modern TBI technology—provided me with an unparalleled sense of control and confidence. In contrast, the community describes the KTM 450 EXC 2025 as a bike that shines on longer routes and during more intense, steady rides. The calm, consistent power delivery of the four-stroke engine, along with its pronounced engine braking, allows for maintaining a constant line in technically demanding sections with less exertion. Experienced riders report that the 450 EXC excels in scenarios requiring long transit sections and a steady pace, as it delivers consistent performance for hours without overly tiring the rider. However, the higher mass and associated gyroscopic effect of the 4-stroke can be a slight disadvantage in extremely tight passages, as the bike responds somewhat sluggishly in such scenarios. On the flip side, the 450 EXC feels more stable and inspires greater confidence.

Opinions were mixed when it came to steep climbs. On one hand, it was almost eerie how low you could let the RPMs drop on the KTM 300 EXC. With precise clutch control, you could guide the bike up the steep incline, making it almost impossible to stall. Even in seemingly hopeless situations, the KTM 300 EXC always managed to deliver just enough torque to continue climbing. On the other hand, the KTM 450 EXC inspired a bit more confidence. Its higher flywheel mass requires less clutch work, and once moving, it fearlessly powers up the steep hill. But beware of miscalculations. If you let the RPMs drop too low, the engine stalls, and on a steep climb, it's tougher to get the bike moving again compared to the lighter and more nimble 2-stroke.

The KTM 300 EXC 2025, which I thoroughly examined during the South Africa tour, presents an ambivalent picture in this area. The two-stroke version scores with a sleek, straightforward design that has fewer moving parts than a four-stroke engine. This makes the engine inherently easier and quicker to maintain—a piston change is usually swift and cost-effective. However, the service intervals for the 2T engine are relatively short under sporty use, meaning regular maintenance is essential to ensure smooth operation. Community reports confirm that with intense hard enduro use, a piston change on the 300 EXC may be necessary after about 80 to 100 operational hours. The automatic oil supply via the TBI connection has rectified many of the previous issues, yet it's still the rider's responsibility to monitor the oil level and refill timely. In comparison, the KTM 450 EXC 2025 boasts a longer lifespan for critical engine components. The four-stroke engine, although technically more complex, has longer maintenance intervals. Experienced riders' insights show that with proper care and regular oil changes, extensive engine maintenance often isn't required until after 150 to 200 hours. This makes the 450 EXC an attractive option for enduro pilots planning long races or tours, relying on enduring technology. The parts availability for both models is well-managed by KTM—spare parts are widely accessible and generally quickly obtainable. Nevertheless, community discussions often highlight that the 300 EXC experiences higher wear on certain parts, like spark plugs and piston rings, while the 450 EXC involves more effort in dealing with the valvetrain and timing chain. These long-term technical aspects are also confirmed by the community, with both bikes considered 'robust and battle-tested'—the two-stroke appealing more to short-distance enduro riders and the four-stroke to long-distance enthusiasts.

On our used markets and on our social media channels, I often hear that the KTM 300 EXC is considered the ideal tool for pure hard enduro use—mainly due to its unmatched agility and direct response. Overall, the 300 EXC has always been a highly sought-after product, typically sold with rather low discounts. Even during the current KTM crisis, there were some very affordable 4-stroke models from the 2023 and 2024 model years available on our 1000PS market. However, genuine bargains for the coveted KTM 300 EXC were not available. Both models are well-represented on the used market.

The 4-stroke model has proven to be particularly robust in practice, enduring many hours of racing with few major technical issues. Prices for these models are somewhat higher, but this is offset by longer maintenance intervals and generally lower service requirements.

Alfie Cox currently relies on 2-stroke models for his rental motorcycle fleet for South Africa tours. With 28 years of experience, he is impressed with the trouble-free nature of the new TBI models. In technical sections, the low weight is simply unbeatable, and even less experienced riders can take advantage of it. This reduces the effort required for rescuing stuck riders. In my group, all riders privately rode 4-stroke models, and during the tour, they handled challenging sections exceptionally well with the 2-stroke 300.

However, Alfie was also clear about costs. Although the purchase price of the 2-stroke models is lower, fuel and oil consumption in practice cannot be overlooked. This has a significant impact on overall costs in direct comparison. Modern 4-stroke EXC models consume half as much fuel as the two-strokes in hard enduro practice and can easily last a full day on a tank. Additionally, 2-stroke models require oil for fresh oil lubrication. While oil consumption is much lower than before, in practice our 2-stroke 300 EXC models needed 150 ml of oil over two days (80-90 km daily stages). It might not sound like much, but it adds up over a season. Naturally, you only give your high-performance machine the best oil. A liter of premium MOTOREX 2T Cross Power costs 25 Euros.

Overall, Alfie is convinced. Even though the resale value of the 2-stroke models is better, the operating costs of the 4-stroke models are lower.

Range is also a crucial factor. Regardless of the terrain, a 4-stroke machine can travel significantly further than the 2-stroke models. Extra fuel stops are needed, or you have to carry an additional small bottle of reserve fuel for long stages.

I personally often find myself torn between the different models. Last winter, I bought an affordable 350cc four-stroke from the 2023 model year, offered at a steep discount—I just couldn't say no. Yet, on the other hand, I've always appreciated the authority of the 450 EXC. It's a bit heavier, but it delivers its power effortlessly. It would be my go-to choice for "TET" rides in Italy, Slovenia, or even Romania. However, during my last trip to South Africa with Alfie Cox, I was thoroughly impressed by the 2025 model year of the 300 EXC. The reduced vibration levels have made it significantly more comfortable than before. People who previously shied away from two-strokes should definitely give the latest generation a chance. It was a big surprise how approachable and smooth the 300 EXC TBI was throughout the entire week.

The immediate kick of the KTM 300 EXC 2025, the lightning-fast response of the two-stroke engine, and the unbeatable feeling of almost dancing through tight corners left a lasting impression on my recent enduro experience. At the same time, Alfie Cox also appreciated the impressive stability and smooth power delivery of the KTM 450 EXC 2025, which truly shone during longer, mixed rides.

• Gear: Helmet, Boots, Gloves: https://foxracing.at/moto/
• Communication: Cardo Packtalk Edge
• Waterproof Enduristan Backpack: https://enduristan.de/collections/rucksacks-1
• The Travel Bag for Enduro Trips: Ogio 9800
• Tires: Mitas EF-07 Supersoft
• Travel Report Hard Enduro Tour South Africa