The all-new two-stroke 2014 KTM Freeride 250R

Si Melber

KTM has released details on its all-new Freeride model, the 250R, which is powered by a highly-responsive two-stroke engine. The Freeride 250R uses a variant of KTM’s 250EXC enduro engine (minus the powervalve), has different porting and a smaller 28mm carb to maximise torque.

The new bike weighs in at just 92.5 kilos when fuelled, which is seven kilos lighter than the 350cc model, despite the addition of a 7L fuel tank. With an up-swept exhaust in place of the 350’s under-slung pipes, the 250R has 55mm more ground clearance (at 380mm). A larger air-filter has been added, and changes to the internal gear ratios have given the Freeride lower bottom gears and a higher top (sixth). Dispensing with the EXC’s kick-start mechanism has shaved more than a kilo off the motor’s mass.

Suspension-wise, the 250R uses the same units as the 350, but has different valving to provide a slightly firmer ride. Improvements to the brakes, handlebars and a new set of adjustable foot-pegs that appear on the 2014 Freeride 350 also apply to the 250R.

The 250R will be aimed at riders who want a more “extreme” type of ride, rather than a go-anywhere trail bike.

For further information on the 2014 KTM Freeride 250R, click here. Stay tuned for an Australian release date and pricing details, and be sure to check out the feature we’ll be running on the bike in Transmoto‘s November issue, which will go on sale in the first week of October.