Dirt biking is a thrilling and exciting sport that has been enjoyed by millions of people all around the world for decades. One of the key elements of dirt biking is speed, and for many enthusiasts, the need for speed is what drives their passion for the sport including those that have 2 stroke dirt bikes.
When it comes to speed, the type of dirt bike you ride can make all the difference. 2 stroke dirt bikes are a popular choice among riders who are looking for speed and power.
These bikes have been around for many years and have a unique design that makes them different from other types of dirt bikes. They are characterized by their two-stroke engines, which provide high levels of power and acceleration.
In this review, I will be revealing the fastest 2 stroke dirt bikes. We will explore the key factors that contribute to a dirt bike’s speed, such as engine capacity, power-to-weight ratio, suspension, and handling.
I will also compare the top 2 stroke dirt bikes on the market and provide tips on how to improve the speed of your bike.
You may also read: 2 stroke vs 4 stroke dirt bike
Whether you’re a professional racer or a weekend enthusiast, understanding what makes a dirt bike fast is essential. By the end of this post, you’ll have a clear understanding of the fastest 2 stroke dirt bike and what you can do to improve the speed of your own bike.
What Makes A Dirt Bike Fast?
When it comes to dirt biking, speed is one of the most important factors for many riders. There are several key components that contribute to a dirt bike’s speed, and understanding these factors can help you make an informed decision when choosing a 2 stroke bike or upgrading your current one.
Here are some of the main factors that contribute to a dirt bike’s speed:
- Engine capacity: The size and power of a dirt bike’s engine are critical factors in determining its speed. Generally, the larger the engine, the more power it can produce and the faster the bike can go.
- Power-to-weight ratio: Another important factor is the power-to-weight ratio of the bike. A bike that is light but has a powerful engine will be able to accelerate faster and reach higher speeds than a heavier bike with the same engine.
- Suspension and handling: The suspension system of a dirt bike plays a crucial role in how it handles at high speeds. A bike with a high-quality suspension system will be able to handle bumps and jumps more smoothly, allowing you to maintain control at high speeds.
- Tires and traction: The type of tires you use on your dirt bike can also affect its speed. Tires that offer good traction and grip will allow you to accelerate faster and maintain speed through corners and turns.
- Other factors: There are several other factors that can contribute to a dirt bike’s speed, such as the gearing ratio, the exhaust system, and the carburetor tuning.
In order to achieve maximum speed on a 2 stroke dirt bike, it is important to find the right balance between these factors. Upgrading your bike’s engine, suspension, and tires can all help to increase its speed, but it is important to ensure that these upgrades are properly balanced and don’t compromise the bike’s overall performance and handling.
Fastest 2 Stroke Dirt Bikes
There are many 2 stroke dirt bikes available on the market, each with its own set of features and capabilities. However, some models stand out from the rest when it comes to speed and performance.
I will outline the fastest 2 stroke dirt bikes based on my tests, experience, and research as a dirt bike owner.
1. Beta RR 300
The Beta RR 300 is a high-performance 2 stroke dirt bike that is designed for speed and agility. This bike is equipped with a 292cc, two-stroke engine that delivers impressive power and acceleration.
It comes with a 6-speed transmission that is smooth and precise to shift. Beta RR 300 top speed is 95 mph when tested on a Dyno as shown by the dirt rider. I have personally reached speeds of up to 85 mph on flat paved road.
This means that Beta RR 300 qualifies as the fastest 2 stroke dirt bike based on dyno and track tests. The above speed qualifies for the fastest dirt bike record.
The Beta RR 300 is in deed a very powerful dirt bike and very light. The bike weighs in at just 229 pounds, making it easy to maneuver and control at high speeds.
The suspension system is also top-notch, with a KYB® fork and shock that provide excellent handling and control on rough terrain.
The Beta RR 300 also comes with a number of other high-performance features, including a Brembo braking system and a hydraulic clutch. The bike’s design is focused on reducing weight and improving handling, with a slim profile and minimalistic bodywork.
2. KTM 300 XC-W
The KTM 300 XC-W is another top-performing 2 stroke dirt bike that is popular among riders who are looking for speed and performance. This bike is equipped with a 293cc, two-stroke engine that delivers impressive power and acceleration.
The engine is paired with a six-speed transmission that provides smooth and precise shifting.
KTM 300 XC-W top speed is theoretically 85 mph but I was able to reach speeds of up to 84 mph. Steve Smith managed speeds of up 83mph on a loose gravel surface with high crosswinds and headwinds.
The key features of the KTM 300 XC-W include a lightweight design. The bike weighs in at just 221 pounds, making it easy to maneuver and control at high speeds. This bike performs close to a 700cc 2 stroke dirt bike.
KTM dirt bikes are known for speed and the other fast KTM is the 450 SX-F.
The suspension system is also top-notch, with a WP Xplor 48 upside-down fork that provides excellent handling and control on rough terrain.
The KTM 300 XC-W also comes with a number of other high-performance features, including a Brembo braking system and a lithium-ion battery.
These features, combined with the bike’s powerful engine and lightweight design, make it a great choice for riders who want a fast and responsive dirt bike.
3. GasGas EC300
The GasGas EC300 is a powerful and agile 2 stroke dirt bike that is designed for off-road performance. This bike is equipped with a 299cc, two-stroke engine that is powerful and robust.
This dirt bike like most come with a six-speed transmission that provides some good acceleration. The top speed for GasGas EC300 is 85mph. I managed to get one to 84mph riding in the desert with 13/49 stock gearing.
The GasGas EC300 is also very light and the 50hp engine propels it fast. The bike weighs 223 pounds only, making it easy to maneuver and control at high speeds.
The suspension system is also top-notch, with a KYB® fork and shock that provide excellent handling and control on rough terrain.
The GasGas EC300 also comes with a number of other high-performance features, including a Brembo braking system and a hydraulic clutch. The bike’s design is focused on off-road performance, with a durable frame and skid plate to protect against rocks and debris.
4. Husqvarna TC250
The Husqvarna TC250 is a powerful and capable 2 stroke dirt bike that is designed for high-speed performance. This bike is equipped with a 249cc, two-stroke engine that delivers impressive power and acceleration.
It comes with a six-speed transmission that provides smooth and precise shifting. Husqvarna TC 250 top speed is 80 mph. Connor Brannan managed to reach a speed of 75mph on an uneven and slippery surface.
The Husqvarna TC250 is very light as the bike weighs just 207 pounds, making it easy to steer at high speeds. The suspension system is also top-notch, with a WP XACT air fork that provides excellent handling and control on rough terrain.
Husqvarna TC250 is arguably the best 2 stroke dirt bike ever made.
The Husqvarna TC250 also comes with a number of other high-performance features, including a Brembo brakes and a hydraulic clutch. These features, combined with the bike’s powerful engine and lightweight design, make it a great choice for riders who want a fast and agile dirt bike.
5. Yamaha YZ125
The Yamaha YZ125 is a popular choice among dirt bike enthusiasts who are looking for speed and power. This bike is equipped with a 125cc, two-stroke engine that produces 33 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful bikes in its class.
The engine is paired with a six-speed transmission that provides smooth and precise shifting. I have used this 2 stroke dirt bike for 2 years now.
The Yamaha YZ125 top speed is 70 mph and mostly am able to reach speeds of 65 to 69mph comfortably on level surfaces. MotoBroo managed a speed of 66 mph on tarmacked surface without pushing rev to the limit. This makes Yamaha YZ125 the fastest 2 stroke dirt bike.
One of the key features of the Yamaha YZ125 is its lightweight design. The bike weighs in at just 207 pounds, making it easy to maneuver and control at high speeds.
The suspension system is also top-notch, with a KYB® Speed-Sensitive System that provides excellent handling and control on rough terrain. The Yamaha YZ125 is the best 2 stroke dirt bike 125 category.
The Yamaha YZ125 also comes with a high-performance exhaust system that enhances the bike’s power and performance. Overall, the Yamaha YZ125 is a great choice for riders who want a fast and powerful dirt bike that is easy to handle and control.
Comparison of Fastest 2 Stroke Dirt Bikes
I will compare the fastest 2 stroke dirt bikes discussed abaove and highlight their similarities and differences in terms of key performance features.
Engine Performance
The Beta RR 300 has a 293cc, two-stroke engine that delivers 43 horsepower. The KTM 300 XC-W TPI has a 293cc, two-stroke engine that delivers 42 horsepower. GasGas EC300 has a 299cc, two-stroke engine that delivers 54 horsepower.
The Husqvarna TC250 has a 249cc, two-stroke engine that delivers 46 horsepower. Finally, the Yamaha YZ125 is equipped with a 125cc, two-stroke engine that delivers 35 horsepower.
As can be seen from the above, the GasGas EC300 has the most powerful engine among the top 2 stroke dirt bikes. However, the Husqvarna TC250 and KTM 300 XC-W TPI have similar engine sizes but different power outputs, with the Husqvarna producing more horsepower.
Suspension
All of the bikes in our top 2 stroke dirt bike list come equipped with high-quality suspension systems. The Beta RR 300 has a Sachs 48mm fork and a Sachs shock absorber.The Yamaha YZ125 has a KYB® Speed-Sensitive System inverted fork and a KYB® shock absorber.
The KTM 300 XC-W has a WP XPLOR upside-down fork and a WP XACT shock absorber. The Husqvarna TC250 has a WP XACT fork and a WP XACT shock absorber. Finally, the GasGas EC300 has a KYB® fork and shock absorber.
The GasGas EC300 and Yamaha YZ125 have similar suspension systems, both featuring KYB® components. The KTM 300 XC-W and Husqvarna TC250 also have similar suspension systems, both featuring WP XACT components.
The Beta RR 300 is the only bike in the list to have a different brand of suspension components, with Sachs being used.
Brakes
The braking systems on the fastest 2 stroke dirt bikes are also impressive. The Yamaha YZ125 has a hydraulic single-disc brake at the front and a hydraulic single-disc brake at the rear.
The KTM 300 XC-W has a Brembo hydraulic single-disc brake at the front and a Brembo hydraulic single-disc brake at the rear. The Husqvarna TC250 has a Magura hydraulic single-disc brake at the front and a Magura hydraulic single-disc brake at the rear.
The Beta RR 300 has a Brembo hydraulic single-disc brake at the front and a Nissin hydraulic single-disc brake at the rear. Finally, the GasGas EC300 has a Brembo hydraulic single-disc brake at the front and a Nissin hydraulic single-disc brake at the rear.
All of the top 2 stroke dirt bikes feature high-quality braking systems, with Brembo being the most common brand used. The Yamaha YZ125 and GasGas EC300 both use Nissin components for the rear brake.
Weight
The weight of a dirt bike can have a significant impact on its performance and handling. The Yamaha YZ125 weighs in at 207 pounds, the KTM 300 XC-W weighs 221 pounds, the Husqvarna TC250 weighs 218.8 pounds, the Beta RR 300 weighs 224.9 pounds, and the GasGas EC300 weighs 223 pounds.
As can be seen from the above, the Yamaha YZ125 is the lightest bike in the list, while the Beta RR 300 is the heaviest. However, all of the bikes are relatively lightweight.
Price
Finally, let’s look at the price of each of the top 2 stroke dirt bikes. The Yamaha YZ125 has an MSRP of $6,699. The KTM 300 XC-W has an MSRP of $9,999. The Husqvarna TC250 has an MSRP of $8,899. The Beta RR 300 has an MSRP of $9,499. Finally, the GasGas EC300 has an MSRP of $9,399.
As can be seen from the above, the Yamaha YZ125 is the most affordable bike in the list, while the KTM 300 XC-W is the most expensive. However, all of the bikes are relatively expensive, reflecting their high-end performance features.
Generally, choosing the fastest 2 stroke dirt bike is not a straightforward task, as different bikes excel in different areas. The Yamaha YZ125 is an excellent choice for those looking for a lightweight bike with impressive engine performance.
The KTM 300 XC-W and Husqvarna TC250 are both great options for those looking for a powerful bike with high-quality suspension systems. The Beta RR 300 is a good choice for those who want a bike with a reliable engine and high-quality brakes. Finally, the GasGas EC300 is the most powerful bike in the list, with an engine that delivers an impressive 54 horsepower.
Ultimately, the best 2 stroke dirt bike for you will depend on your personal preferences and riding style. It’s important to test ride different bikes before making a decision. I hope this comparison of the top 2 stroke dirt bikes has been helpful in narrowing down your options and finding the right bike for you.
Tips For Improving The Speed Of A 2 Stroke Dirt Bike
If you already own a 2 stroke dirt bike or thinking about acquiring one and want to improve its speed, there are several things you can do to achieve better performance. Here are some tips for improving the speed of a 2 stroke dirt bike:
- Upgrade the exhaust system: One of the easiest and most effective ways to increase the power of a 2 stroke dirt bike is to upgrade the exhaust system. A high-performance exhaust system can improve the engine’s efficiency, allowing it to generate more power and speed.
- Tune the carburetor: The carburetor is responsible for delivering fuel to the engine, and a poorly tuned carburetor can negatively impact the bike’s performance. Tuning the carburetor can improve the bike’s acceleration and speed, as well as its overall fuel efficiency.
- Install a high-performance air filter: A high-performance air filter can improve the air flow to the engine, which in turn can improve the bike’s speed and acceleration. Make sure to choose an air filter that is compatible with your bike’s model and engine type.
- Upgrade the suspension system: A high-quality suspension system can improve the bike’s handling and stability, allowing you to ride faster and more confidently. Upgrading the suspension system can also improve the bike’s traction, which can help it grip the terrain better and accelerate more quickly.
- Use high-performance tires: Choosing the right tires can make a significant difference in the bike’s speed and handling. High-performance tires are designed to provide better traction and grip, which can help the bike accelerate more quickly and navigate rough terrain more effectively.
- Keep the bike well-maintained: Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your 2 stroke dirt bike running at its best. Make sure to change the oil, clean the air filter, and check the spark plug regularly. Keeping the bike well-maintained can help it run more efficiently and improve its overall performance.
Improving the speed of a 2 stroke dirt bike requires a combination of upgrades, tuning, and regular maintenance.
By following these tips and making the necessary adjustments, you can achieve better performance and enjoy a faster, more powerful ride.
Closing Remarks
Choosing the right and fastest 2 stroke dirt bike can be a difficult task, with so many options available. However, the Beta RR 300, KTM 300 XC-W, GasGas EC300, Husqvarna TC250, and Yamaha YZ125 are all excellent choices for riders who are looking for speed and performance.
When selecting a dirt bike, it’s important to consider factors such as engine size, weight, suspension, and other performance features.
The fastest 2 stroke dirt bike for you will depend on a variety of factors, including your riding style, skill level, and personal preferences. While some bikes excel in terms of raw power, others may offer superior handling, suspension, or reliability.
My comparison of the fastest 2 stroke dirt bikes has highlighted some of the best options available which include Beta RR 300, KTM 300 XC-W, GasGas EC300, Husqvarna TC250, and Yamaha YZ125. Each of these bikes offers unique features and advantages, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
If you already own a 2 stroke dirt bike and want to improve its speed, there are several things you can do to achieve better performance. Upgrading the exhaust system, installing a high-performance air filter, tuning the carburetor, upgrading the suspension system, using high-performance tires, and keeping the bike well-maintained are all effective ways to improve the bike’s speed and performance.
Ultimately, choosing the right 2 stroke dirt bike and optimizing its performance is a matter of trial and error. Take the time to test ride different bikes and experiment with upgrades and adjustments to find the combination that works best for you. With the right bike and the right modifications, you can enjoy a faster, more powerful, and more thrilling ride on the dirt.