2023 KTM SX 300: An Overview

As a perfect blend of two-stroke agility and four-stroke power characteristics, the 2023 KTM SX 300 captures the best of both worlds.

In 2022, Dirt Rider had an exclusive opportunity to test ride KTM’s fleet of 2023 motocross and four-stroke cross-country models at RedBud MX in Buchanan, Michigan. However, the availability of the two-stroke MX preproduction models was limited.

But 2023 brought a golden opportunity to ride the production-ready KTM 300 SX at Fox Raceway in Pala, California. The appeal of the KTM 300 SX extends beyond the two-stroke aficionados, intriguing everyone with its performance.

2023 KTM 300 SX Engine

The first noticeable change in the KTM 300 SX is the absence of a kickstarter. It's an unfamiliar sight on premix-burning MX machines, yet all it takes is the press of a grey button on the handlebar to start it. A more significant transition is the inclusion of throttle body injection (TBI), marking the end of carburetors for KTM's full-size dirt bike lineup. An electronic power valve further enhances the bike's performance, ensuring broad and usable power.

Additionally, the handlebar-mounted dual engine map select button is a welcome novelty for 2023. Switching between the standard, softer-hitting Map 1 (white light illuminated) and the harder-hitting, exciting Map 2 (green light illuminated), the difference was quite significant.

The 300 SX effortlessly navigated through tight corners in second gear, with minimal clutch work required. In some medium and longer-length sweeping corners, it was even possible to cruise in third gear, only needing a light fan of the clutch on exit.

2023 KTM 300 SX Suspension

KTMs are known for their impressive suspension, and the 300 SX is no exception. Its race-ready suspension package is designed for speed, performing better the harder you ride it.

All of KTM’s full-size motocross and off-road competition models now come with quick-adjust knobs for shock low- and high-speed compression, and rebound damping. This feature is a game-changer, allowing for on-the-spot suspension tuning, eliminating the need to go back to the pits for adjustments.

2023 KTM 300 SX Chassis/Handling

The 300 SX takes full advantage of its two-stroke lightness in handling. Charging hard into corners and then effortlessly cutting down them is easily achieved thanks to the nimble chassis. KTM's ability to set up wide in corners and change direction suddenly while in them is particularly impressive.

As far as competition goes, the KTM 300 SX has only the Beta 300 RX to be wary of. The RX, debuted last year, sells for $9399, which is $200 more than the KTM. The primary difference between the two lies in the fueling system, with the Beta employing a carburetor.

The KTM 300 SX stands as a testament to the possibilities of blending two-stroke and four-stroke characteristics. It is a daring and successful experiment that pushes the boundaries of what a dirt bike can be. It will be exciting to see how riders respond to this adventurous entry in the coming months.

2023 KTM 300 SX Specifications

• MSRP: $9199
• Engine Type: 2-stroke, single
• Displacement: 293.2cc
• Bore x Stroke: 72 x 72mm
• Cooling System: Liquid
• Starting System: Electric
• Fueling: Fuel Injection (Throttle Body Injection)
• Transmission: 5-speed, w/ hydraulic clutch
• Frame: Steel central-tube
• Subframe: Polyamide, reinforced aluminum
• Front Suspension: WP Xact 48mm
• Rear Suspension: WP Xact Monoshock with linkage
• Front-Wheel Travel: 12.2 in.
• Rear-Wheel Travel: 11.8 in.
• Front Wheel: 21 in.
• Rear Wheel: 19 in.
• Front Tire: Dunlop Geomax MX-33F
• Rear Tire: Dunlop Geomax 

A two-stroke with four-stroke characteristics? Is it even possible to have the best of both worlds? As we discovered in the past year, KTM certainly believes so.

In May 2022, Dirt Rider was given the opportunity to ride KTM’s entire fleet of 2023 motocross bikes and four-stroke cross-country models at RedBud MX in Buchanan, Michigan. The experience was nothing short of thrilling! Now fast forward to 2023 and the KTM 300 SX in its finalized production form has taken us on a wild ride at Fox Raceway in Pala, California. In this blog, we’ll dive into how the all-new KTM 300 SX performs.

In-depth breakdown of the specifications

2023 KTM 300 SX Engine: A Blend of Old and New

The KTM 300 SX brings in a number of fresh features to KTM’s two-stroke lineup. It does away with the kickstarter that we're so used to on premix-burning MX machines, and instead, fires to life with a press of a button. Throttle body injection (TBI) replaces carburetors, and an electronic power valve provides broad and usable power.

The result? A surprisingly pleasant ride. The 300 SX is happiest right in the midrange for the majority of sections. The new engine map select button, another feature introduced this year, provides noticeable changes in performance, offering softer-hitting standard mode and an aggressive mode that delivers harder-hitting and exciting power delivery.

2023 KTM 300 SX Suspension: Ready for the Race Track

KTM has a reputation for good-performing suspension, and the 300 SX lives up to it. It’s designed for fast, aggressive riding, but can be adjusted to accommodate beginner and novice-level riders. One particularly impressive feature is the introduction of quick-adjust knobs for shock low- and high-speed compression, and rebound damping. This facilitates easy, on-the-go suspension tuning without needing a trip back to the pits.

2023 KTM 300 SX Chassis/Handling: Nimble and AgileThe lightweight nature of the two-stroke engine lends itself to the 300 SX’s nimble handling. It's especially noticeable when charging into corners and changing directions rapidly, thanks to the powerful Brembo brakes and responsive chassis.
The 300 SX feels lighter and nimbler than 450cc four-strokes. Photo by Mark Kariya

2023 KTM 300 SX: How Does It Compare?

With an MSRP of $9199, the 300 SX has only the Beta 300 RX, retailing at $9399, as its main competitor. While the RX made its debut last year, the current model still uses a carbureted fueling system, unlike the fuel-injected 300 SX.

In conclusion, the 2023 KTM SX 300 offers an impressive blend of traditional two-stroke characteristics and modern technology. It combines the best aspects of two-stroke and four-stroke engines, making it an exciting choice for riders of all levels.

Check out the 2023 KTM SX 300 today for a unique motocross experience!