KTM 250 EXC-F Six Days [2021 - 2021] Review: A Precision Tool for Hardcore Enduro Enthusiasts

Introduction

The KTM 250 EXC-F Six Days isn’t just a motorcycle – it’s a declaration of intent. Built for riders who view untouched trails as personal challenges and muddy hill climbs as invitations, this machine represents KTM’s relentless focus on off-road dominance. The 2021 Six Days edition takes the already-capable EXC-F platform and layers on race-inspired upgrades, creating a bike that feels equally at home in amateur hands or professional pits. Let’s dissect why this Austrian enduro weapon continues to command respect.

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Engine & Performance

The Heart of a Champion

At the core beats a liquid-cooled 249.9cc single-cylinder four-stroke, its 78mm bore and 52.3mm stroke (3.1 x 2.1 inches) engineered for explosive response. The Keihin electronic fuel injection system delivers throttle input with sniper-like precision, eliminating carburetor hesitation while maintaining cold-start reliability – a blessing when you’re kickstarting (or rather, button-starting) your morning in a foggy forest.

Power Delivery:
- Low-end torque builds linearly, letting you tractor up rocky inclines at walking pace
- Midrange hits with a surge that lifts the front wheel effortlessly
- Top-end revs freely, rewarding aggressive riders who keep momentum high

The six-speed transmission’s ratios feel telepathic. First gear crawls through technical sections, while sixth’s overdrive ratio keeps engine buzz tolerable during liaison stages. The Brembo-controlled DDS clutch offers featherlight pull – your left hand will thank you during three-hour hare scrambles.

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Chassis & Suspension

Ballet Dancer in Steel Armor

The 25CrMo4 steel frame strikes a masterful balance between flex and rigidity. At 103.5 kg (228 lbs) dry, it flicks through trees with trials-bike agility yet remains stable at 90 km/h (56 mph) fire-road blasts.

WP Suspension Setup:
- Front: 48mm USD Xplor forks (11.8 inches/300mm travel)
- Progressive damping handles everything from root gardens to G-out jumps
- Tool-free preload adjustment lets you adapt to rider weight or cargo
- Rear: WP Xplor PDS shock (12.2 inches/310mm travel)
- Progressive damping linkage eliminates mid-stroke wallow
- High-speed compression adjuster tames harsh landings

The 26.5° rake and minimal trail (n/a spec but estimated 110mm) make steering almost telepathic. You don’t turn this bike – you think it through lines.

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Brakes & Wheels

Controlled Aggression

• Front: 260mm disc with radial-mount Brembo caliper
• Bite is progressive rather than abrupt – critical for loose descents
• Rear: 220mm disc with floating caliper
• Modulated feel prevents lockups on slippery roots

The stock Metzeler Six Days tires (90/90-21 front, 140/80-18 rear) work surprisingly well in intermediate terrain. For hardpack or deep mud, consider swapping to MOTOPARTS.store’s selection of gummy or paddle-style rubber.

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Ergonomics & Practicality

Built for Battle

• Seat Height: 960mm (37.8 inches)
• Manageable for 175cm (5’9”) riders but demands commitment when dabbing
• Standing Position: Narrow profile lets you grip the bike knees-in
• Fuel Range: 9L (2.38 gal) tank gives ~100km (62 mi) at race pace

The composite skid plate and fork protectors shrug off rock strikes, while the minimalist bodywork stays out of your way during dismounts.

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Competition

How It Stacks Up

1. Yamaha WR250F
- Pros: Softer power delivery for beginners, lower seat
- Cons: 116kg (256 lbs) wet weight feels portly, air-cooled oil system struggles in technical climbs
- Verict: Better for trail riders; KTM dominates in race scenarios

2. Honda CRF250X
- Pros: Legendary reliability, smooth hydraulic clutch
- Cons: Carbureted engine feels dated, suspension lacks adjustability
- Verdict: Choose Honda for low-maintenance trail use; KTM for performance

3. Beta RR 250
- Pros: Softer suspension for technical enduro, street-legal variants
- Cons: Less peak power, heavier chromoly frame
- Verdict: Beta suits technical specialists; KTM favors all-round speed

4. Husqvarna FE 250
- Pros: Nearly identical engine with Magura clutch components
- Cons: $500 premium for minor upgrades
- Verdict: Flip a coin – personal brand preference decides

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Maintenance

Keeping the Beast Hungry

1. Air Filter Care
- Issue: Fine dust bypasses stock filter in dry conditions
- Fix: Clean every 10 engine hours using MOTOPARTS.store’s Twin-Air kits
- Pro Tip: Apply waterproof grease to filter sealing edge

2. Oil Changes
- Interval: 15 hours for engine oil (1.2L Motorex 10W-50 recommended)
- Watch For: Magnetic drain plug collects metal shavings – inspect each change

3. Chain & Sprockets
- Stock Setup: DID 520ERT2 chain wears quickly under abuse
- Upgrade: MOTOPARTS.store’s Supersprox Stealth combo adds 30% lifespan

4. Brake Fluid
- Spec: DOT 4/5.1 – flush annually to prevent moisture absorption
- Upgrade: Galfer braided lines improve lever feel

5. Coolant System
- Drain Interval: 100 hours or 2 years
- Upgrade: Engine Ice coolant prevents boil-over in slow climbs

6. Suspension Service
- Front Forks: Replace seals every 80 hours
- Rear Shock: Rebuild with MOTOPARTS.store’s WP kit at 100 hours

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Conclusion

The 2021 KTM 250 EXC-F Six Days doesn’t coddle – it expects you to meet its capabilities halfway. For riders willing to push both machine and themselves, it delivers a rare blend of precision and brutality. While the competition offers easier entry points, none match this bike’s ability to transform aggressive input into forward motion. Treat it to MOTOPARTS.store’s curated upgrades, and you’ll own a machine that laughs at obstacles most bikes fear.

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Specifications sheet

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