KTM 300 EXC ERZBERGRODEO [2018-2020] Review: The Hard Enduro Specialist That Redefined Two-Stroke Agility

Introduction

When KTM unleashed the 300 EXC ERZBERGRODEO edition for the 2018-2020 model years, it wasn’t just launching another dirt bike – it was dropping a gauntlet in the hard enduro world. Named after the infamous Erzberg Rodeo, an event that separates motorcycle legends from mere mortals, this machine represents the pinnacle of two-stroke engineering for riders who laugh in the face of impossible terrain. After spending days wrestling this orange beast through rock gardens, hill climbs, and forest single-track, I’m convinced this generation remains one of the most compelling arguments for keeping two-strokes alive in the modern era.

Engine Performance: Two-Stroke Brilliance Meets Modern Refinement

At the heart of the 300 EXC ERZBERGRODEO beats a 293.2cc liquid-cooled two-stroke that’s been dragged kicking and screaming into the 21st century. The star of the show is the Transfer Port Injection (TPI) system, which eliminates the need for premixing fuel while delivering cleaner combustion.

Key characteristics:
- Controllable violence: The powerband feels like a coiled spring – docile at low RPMs for technical crawling, then exploding into a wave of torque that loftshows the front wheel in any gear.
- Fuel efficiency: At 2.79 L/100 km (84.31 mpg), it sips fuel compared to carbureted two-strokes, with a 9-liter (2.38 gal) tank offering decent range.
- Electric start: A godsend when stalled mid-hill climb, augmented by a backup kickstarter.

The magic lies in how KTM tamed the traditional two-stroke hit. There’s still that signature explosive power, but it’s delivered with a precision that lets you balance the rear tire on knife-edge obstacles. The 6-speed gearbox ratios are perfectly spaced, with first gear low enough for walking-pace technicals and sixth gear capable of 110+ km/h (68+ mph) bursts between trail sections.

Chassis & Suspension: A Ballet Dancer in Steel-Toed Boots

KTM’s chromoly steel frame has always been the gold standard for off-road bikes, and this ERZBERGRODEO edition takes it further with refined geometry. The 1482 mm (58.3") wheelbase strikes a perfect balance between stability and flickability.

Suspension highlights:
- WP Xplor 48 USD forks: 300 mm (11.8") of travel that swallows square-edged hits yet remains supple on small chatter
- WP PDS rear shock: 310 mm (12.2") of progressive damping that keeps the rear planted during brutal climbs
- 26.5° rake: Sharp enough for quick direction changes but maintains stability at speed

The suspension setup feels like it was tuned by mountain goats – it somehow maintains composure whether you’re bouncing off boulders or landing from 3-meter drops. Even the stock settings work surprisingly well for riders weighing 70-90 kg (154-198 lbs).

Ergonomics & Ride Experience

Swinging a leg over the 960 mm (37.8") seat height immediately reveals this bike’s purpose – it’s not here to coddle casual riders. The narrow chassis lets you grip the bike with your knees like a trials machine, while the 103.9 kg (229 lbs) dry weight disappears beneath you once moving.

Standout features:
- Bodywork: The streamlined plastics offer incredible freedom of movement for weight shifting
- LCD display: Basic but effective – shows fuel level, hour meter, and gear position
- Ground clearance: 370 mm (14.6") lets you straddle logs and rocks that stop lesser bikes

During a brutal 6-hour test ride through mixed terrain, the KTM felt like an extension of my body. The bike’s willingness to change direction mid-rut and its ability to tractor up muddy inclines at near-idle RPMs redefined what I thought possible in technical terrain.

Competition: How It Stacks Against the Two-Stroke Elite

1. Beta 300 RR

• Advantage: Softer power delivery for beginners
• KTM counters: More aggressive suspension, superior parts availability
• Verdict: Beta suits trail riders; KTM dominates hard enduro

2. Husqvarna TE 300i

• Advantage: Slightly plusher suspension feel
• KTM counters: Better value, more direct power delivery
• Verdict: Twins separated by branding and minor setup differences

3. Sherco 300 SEF Factory

• Advantage: Four-stroke torque character
• KTM counters: Lighter weight, easier maintenance
• Verdict: KTM for pure two-stroke thrill-seekers

Where the 300 EXC ERZBERGRODEO truly shines is in its segment-blurring capability. It’s as comfortable racing hare scrambles as it is tackling Erzberg-style extreme obstacles, outclassing more specialized competitors.

Maintenance: Keeping the Orange Beast Roaring

Critical Service Points

1. Top-end rebuilds:
2. Every 100-150 hours for recreational riders

3. Use forged pistons for extended durability (available at MOTOPARTS.store)

4. TPI system care:

5. Clean fuel injectors every 50 hours

6. Replace fuel filter with high-flow alternatives

7. Suspension servicing:

8. Fork oil changes every 80 hours

9. Shock rebuilds annually for aggressive riders

10. Brake maintenance:

11. DOT 4/5.1 fluid changes every 6 months

12. Replace sintered pads before rotor scoring occurs

13. Cooling system:

14. Use waterless coolant for boil-over protection
15. Inspect hoses regularly for abrasion

MOTOPARTS.store Upgrade Recommendations

• Air filters: TwinAir dual-stage foam for better particle filtration
• Chain kits: DID ERT3 gold chain with steel sprockets
• Handguards: Cycra Probend CRM for maximum roost protection
• Skid plates: TMD Designs composite guard for impact absorption
• Grips: ODI Lock-On V2 for vibration damping

The Verdict: Why This Generation Still Matters

The 2018-2020 KTM 300 EXC ERZBERGRODEO isn’t just a dirt bike – it’s a masterclass in controlled aggression. It takes the raw thrill of a traditional two-stroke and wraps it in modern technology that expands both its capabilities and accessibility. While newer models have since emerged, this generation remains a sweet spot for riders wanting bulletproof reliability with cutting-edge performance.

Whether you’re carving through granite boulder fields or chasing enduro trophies, this KTM delivers an adrenaline cocktail that’s equal parts precision and pandemonium. And when the inevitable wear-and-tear occurs? That’s where we come in – MOTOPARTS.store has every component you need to keep your ERZBERGRODEO conquering terrain for years to come.

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Specifications sheet

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