The Dirt Bike team had a hectic week, primarily focused on the ongoing 125-two-stroke shootout. The sole addition to the group this year is the GasGas MC125. Special Guest Test Rider Carson Brown, hailing from the Northwest, joined us for testing.
Carson Brown quickly adapted to the GasGas, showcasing his natural affinity for any 125 two-stroke within about 30 seconds. The GasGas MC125, previously equipped with an old motor and Mikuni carburetor last year, now aligns with the KTM and Husky 125s, boasting throttle body fuel injection and an electronic powervalve.
The transition to throttle-fuel-injection significantly transformed the MC125, giving it a distinct enduro-bike feel. While Carson has experience with the new generation Austrian 125s, he confesses to missing the hit and peak power of the previous motor.
As two-stroke fuel injection is still in its early stages, we anticipate electronic updates becoming standard in the years ahead with the progression of the electronic age.
In other news, new products are on the horizon, such as the KTM/Husqvarna/GasGas SX-E 2, EE 2, MC-E 2 handlebar mount risers, available at a retail price of $29.99.
The Maptuner Nano, a revolutionary device developed by Maptun of Sweden in collaboration with WMR Racing Development, is set to redefine dirt bike tuning and control. This compact powerhouse offers effortless tuning at your fingertips, seamlessly integrating with your motorcycle and smartphone through an intuitive app.
Moving on, we had the opportunity to ride the new KTM Factory Edition 450 model, the foundation for Aaron Plessinger’s San Diego Supercross win.
Notably, the KTM Connect smartphone app is now ready for prime time, offering engine tuning capabilities and surprising integration of LitPro telemetry, providing comprehensive information about throttle usage, gear shifts, and jump distances. This technology is expected to be a game-changer for coaching.
Other features include a look at Jay Clark’s 1995 Honda CR250R project and a Yamaha YZ250 built by Team Solitaire for test rider Robbie Wageman in the latest 2-Stroke Tuesday. The 2024 WORCS Round 2 saw SLR crew victories in the Open Pro and Women’s Pro divisions at Glen Helen.
