GAS GAS EC 250 2T (2018–2022) Review: The Spanish Enduro Weapon Refined

Introduction

The GAS GAS EC 250 2T represents a fascinating chapter in the evolution of competitive enduro motorcycles. Born in Spain and refined across its 2018–2022 production run, this two-stroke machine carved a niche for itself among riders who value lightweight agility, explosive power delivery, and the raw thrill of premix-fed performance. While part of the KTM Group family since 2019, the EC 250 retained its distinct character—a blend of Mediterranean flair and no-nonsense engineering. After spending days wrestling this bike through rocky trails, muddy forests, and tight technical sections, it’s clear why it developed a cult following among hardcore enduro enthusiasts.

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Design & Ergonomics: Function Over Flair

The EC 250’s aesthetics scream purpose. The signature red/white color scheme (with occasional blue accents on special editions like the Six-Days Chile model) is bold but never garish. Its 2145 mm (84.4 in) length and 810 mm (31.9 in) width give it a compact, focused stance, while the 960 mm (37.8 in) seat height—though intimidating on paper—feels manageable thanks to narrow bodywork. The 25CrMo4 steel frame evolved slightly over the years but maintained its reputation for combining stiffness and flex in all the right places.

Riders will appreciate the thoughtful touches:
- Li-ion battery (2019 onward) shaving crucial weight
- Electric starter (standard by 2021) eliminating kickstart fuss
- WP XPLOR USD forks (2021–2022) with easy-access clickers for trailside adjustments
- FMF PowerCore 2.1 exhaust (2018 E4 model) delivering that classic two-stroke bark

Standout flaws? The subframe’s plastic components feel slightly cheaper than Austrian rivals, and the 8.5–10L (2.25–2.64 gal) fuel capacity demands strategic pit stops during long races.

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Engine Performance: Two-Stroke Theater

The 249.3cc liquid-cooled two-stroke is the star here. With a 66.4 mm bore and 72 mm stroke (2.6 x 2.8 in), it’s tuned for mid-range punch rather than all-out top-end scream—perfect for enduro’s stop-start demands.

Key evolution points:
- 2018–2019: Carbureted models (Keihin PWK 38/FCR-MX37) offered tunable grunt but required jetting finesse in extreme temps
- 2021–2022: Fuel-injected versions (Continental EMS) delivered crisp throttle response and altitude immunity
- DDS clutch (2021 onward) provided buttery modulation even during hour-long technical sections

The powerband feels electric. Crack the throttle at 4,000 RPM, and the bike surges forward with a linear build that avoids the "light switch" hit of older two-strokes. The counter-balancer shaft (2021–2022) tames vibrations significantly—a blessing during 6-hour endurance rides.

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Handling & Suspension: Dancing With Rocks

At 105–106 kg (231.5–234.1 lbs) dry, the EC 250 floats over obstacles that would stall heavier four-strokes. The 1480 mm (58.3 in) wheelbase and 26.5° rake strike a perfect balance between stability at speed and flickability in switchbacks.

Suspension highlights:
- WP XACT Monoshock (2021–2022): Plush on small bumps yet resistant to bottoming
- KYB AOS closed-cartridge forks (2018–2020): Race-ready out of the crate but harsh for beginners
- 300 mm (11.8 in) of wheel travel front/rear (2021–2022) soaking up everything short of cliff drops

Braking is confident but not overwhelming—Braktec/Nissin calipers biting on 220 mm (8.7 in) wave discs provide enough stopping power without overwhelming the lightweight chassis.

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Competition: How It Stacks Up

The EC 250’s fiercest rivals include:

1. KTM 250 XC-W TPI
- Pros: Stronger dealer network, TPI oil injection
- Cons: Heavier (109 kg), less agile in tight woods

2. Husqvarna TE 250i
- Pros: Premium components (Brembo brakes), smoother power
- Cons: $1,500+ pricier when new, stiffer suspension setup

3. Beta 250 RR
- Pros: Softer power for beginners, standard oil injection
- Cons: Less race-focused geometry, weaker bottom-end

The GAS GAS shines for riders who:
- Prefer carb tuning (pre-2021) or want FI without oil injection complexity
- Value minimalist design over gadgetry
- Need a bike that’s equally at home in hare scrambles and hard enduro

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Maintenance: Keeping the Orange Beast Alive

As MOTOPARTS.store’s resident enduro nut, here’s my maintenance cheat sheet:

1. Air Filter Care
- The EC 250’s airbox is sensitive to mud. Upgrade to a twin-air filter with rim grease.
- Clean every 10 hours (or after every muddy ride).

2. Suspension TLC
- 2018–2020 KYB forks benefit from SKF seals to reduce stiction.
- WP XACT shock (2021–2022) needs nitrogen recharge every 50 hours.

3. Clutch Love
- DDS clutch (2021–2022) wears faster under abuse. Keep spare Braktec friction plates handy.
- Magura hydraulic systems (pre-2021) demand mineral oil changes annually.

4. Two-Stroke Essentials
- Fuel-injected models: Inspect injectors every 100 hours.
- Carbureted versions: Swap jets seasonally—MOTOPARTS.store’s jetting kit is a lifesaver.

5. Upgrade Recommendations
- FMF Gnarly pipe: Boosts low-end for technical terrain
- Pirelli Scorpion XC MidSoft tires: Perfect for mixed conditions
- Acerbis handguards: Save levers during inevitable drops

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Conclusion: A Legacy of Dirt Dominance

The 2018–2022 GAS GAS EC 250 2T isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a statement. It laughs in the face of four-stroke complexity, offering a purist’s take on enduro riding where skill trumps technology. While newer bikes have since adopted oil injection and traction control, the EC 250 remains a testament to the raw, unfiltered joy of two-stroke ownership.

Whether you’re resurrecting a battered 2018 E4 model or fine-tuning a fuel-injected 2022 example, MOTOPARTS.store has the parts to keep your Spanish stallion charging. From clutch kits to suspension upgrades, we’re here to ensure your EC 250 outrides, outlasts, and outsmarts the competition. Now grab your premix can—it’s time to roost.

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Specifications sheet

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