2011 KTM300 XC (Cross Country)

Stan Watt from Front Row GB took delivery of the new 2011 KTM300XC 2T last week and has been more than impressed with the first practice sessions on KTM's new concept for the UK market.

The XC version has always been provided by KTM to the South African, Australian and US marketplace to suit the abundance of Hare and Hound type events, especially the big money events like the GNCC in America.

For the first time, the XC model is an official UK import and Derrick Edmondson at Edmondson Racing in Cannock, Staffs. has been on the ball getting hold of every last bike from KTM he can.

The XC 2T (250cc and 300cc) boasts a whole new engine design, including a 6 speed gear box, a new barrel, head and power valve. All models come with an electric start, 18in rear wheel, 11.5L clear tank, larger bore exhaust and SX suspension.

Although there are no lights as standard the full wiring loom is on the bike and it is a simple process to make the bike road legal and can easily be registered.

The new 300 has progressed in all departments, using the motocross styling to give it a sharp look, the SX suspension is just a pleasure once it has been tweaked for enduro and the torque of the engine allows the bike to hook up and drive rather than launching the front wheel in the air like the older model.

Geometry changes makes the bike feel more like the 250exc in the tight and twisty bits and when the 6 speed opens up, there is definitely no lack of top end speed.

Stan has currently tested at Rogershill Raceway where the ACU National Sprint Challenge was held earlier in the year and in the deep sand of North Devon.

A thumbs up all round at the minute and anyone looking at a new bike should seriously consider the KTM250 or KTM300XC.

Contact Derrick Edmondson @ Edmondson Racing - 01543 450150

FRGB

BRITISH ENDURO CHAMPIONSHIP - HAFREN WALES

Round 3 of the British Enduro Championship was set in the picturesque town of Llanidloes where the motocross special test was situated along with the main paddock.

From the start at the Rugby Club, the two day event would make its way to the nearby motocross special test, prior to heading out to the Jones farm, which would be the central hub of activity for refueling and the second special test.

With the weather holding strong and temperatures in the low to mid-twenties, day 1 comprised of two laps with back-to-back motocross tests to end the day of over 7 hours of riding. The course rode well and such a pleasure to be racing there without the normal guaranteed rain.

David Knight took the honors followed by Greg Evans, Paul Edmondson, Daryl Bolter and Edward Jones.

Day 2 threatened with rain showers that never appeared and the course stayed in great shape. Two laps again and another long day with back-to-back tests on a reversed motocross special to finish the event.

Again, David Knight would stand on top of the podium followed by Greg Evans, Tom Sagar, Daryl Bolter and Paul Edmondson.

Stan Watt from Front Row GB had a fairly steady weekend finishing 5th in the E3 on Saturday and 6th in E3 on the Sunday. The good weather doesn't play to Stan's strengths as he needs to improve and concentrate on his special test times in order progress further up the position board.

Check this video out as it gives anyone an idea of the terrain if you have never had a go. http://vimeo.com/12404115

Next BEC is at Knighton on 10th and 11th July

FRGB