GAS GAS EC 250 RACING 2T [2018 - 2021]: A Two-Stroke Enduro Legend Revisited
Introduction
When you think of pure, unadulterated off-road adrenaline, few machines encapsulate the spirit of enduro riding like the GAS GAS EC 250 RACING 2T. Born from Spain’s rich trials and enduro heritage, this bike carved its reputation as a no-compromise weapon for riders who demand precision, agility, and that unmistakable two-stroke punch. Produced between 2018 and 2021, this generation refined the EC 250’s formula with modern upgrades while staying true to its roots. Having recently thrown a leg over a well-maintained 2020 example, I can confirm: this bike is still a riot on the trails.
Design & Build Quality: Purposeful Brutality
The EC 250 RACING 2T isn’t here to win beauty contests—it’s here to dominate. The red-and-white livery screams aggression, with sharp lines and minimalist bodywork that prioritizes function. The chrome-moly steel frame is a work of art, offering a rigid yet forgiving backbone that’s critical for off-road abuse. At 105 kg (231.5 lbs) dry, it’s featherlight compared to modern four-strokes, and that’s immediately noticeable when muscling through technical sections.
The 960 mm (37.8") seat height might intimidate shorter riders, but the narrow chassis and sculpted seat make it manageable once you’re moving. Excel aluminum rims wrapped in Michelin Enduro tires (90/90-21 front, 140/80-18 rear) complete the rugged aesthetic, while the FMF PowerCore 2.1 exhaust juts out like a battle horn. This bike doesn’t just look ready—it looks hungry.
Engine Performance: Two-Stroke Thunder
Let’s address the elephant in the room: the 249.3cc liquid-cooled two-stroke engine. With a bore x stroke of 66.4 x 72.0 mm (2.6 x 2.8"), it’s a classic square design that prioritizes mid-range punch and top-end scream. The Mikuni carburetor (yes, carburetor—no fuel injection here) delivers a raw, analog throttle response that purists will adore.
Twist the grip, and the VForce 4 reed valve snaps to attention, channeling a tsunami of torque through the FMF pipe. The powerband is surprisingly tractable for a 250cc two-stroke, with a smooth transition from grunty low-end to a hair-raising top-end hit. It’s not as docile as a four-stroke, but it’s far more manageable than older 250cc smokers. The electric starter (a godsend in muddy conditions) and backup kickstarter ensure you’re never stranded.
The 6-speed gearbox is slick, with ratios perfectly spaced for enduro versatility. First gear crawls up rock faces, while sixth lets you stretch its legs on fire roads. The Rekluse clutch system and Magura hydraulic pump provide buttery modulation—critical when navigating root-infested singletrack.
Handling & Suspension: Dance Partner in the Dirt
Where the EC 250 truly shines is in its chassis dynamics. The KYB suspension setup is sublime: 48 mm closed-cartridge forks up front soak up 300 mm (11.8") of travel, while the KYB rear shock and linkage system handle 131 mm (5.2") out back. This isn’t plush comfort—it’s controlled, communicative damping that begs you to charge harder.
On fast, choppy trails, the bike stays composed, refusing to deflect or wallow. In tight woods, the 1480 mm (58.3") wheelbase and sharp steering geometry make it flickable, almost telepathic. The Nissin brakes—220 mm front and rear discs—offer strong, progressive stopping power, though they require a deliberate squeeze in extreme conditions.
On the Trail: Riding Impressions
Throwing a leg over the EC 250 feels like strapping into a fighter jet. The narrow ergonomics let you grip the bike with your knees, while the bars fall naturally to hand. Start the engine (electric starter whirring happily), and the vibration through the pegs is a constant reminder: this is a living, breathing machine.
In technical climbs, the engine’s low-end grunt and light weight make it a cheat code. The Michelin tires dig in relentlessly, and the suspension eats up square-edged hits without drama. On flowing trails, the bike begs to be revved out—the powerband hits hard around 6,000 RPM, launching you forward with a howl that’s pure two-stroke ecstasy.
The 9.8-liter (2.59 US gal) fuel tank is adequate for a 2-3 hour ride, but serious enduro warriors might crave a larger aftermarket option. Still, the 1:50 oil-fuel mix ratio means you’ll be stopping to refuel before you run out of premix.
Competition: How It Stacks Up
The EC 250 RACING 2T faced stiff competition during its production years:
- KTM 250 XC-W: KTM’s flagship two-stroke rival boasted electric start and a reputation for bulletproof reliability. However, the GAS GAS counters with superior suspension (KYB vs. WP) and a more aggressive power delivery.
- Husqvarna TE 250: Sharing KTM’s DNA, the Husky offered a smoother powerband but weighed 7 kg (15.4 lbs) more. The EC 250’s flickable chassis gives it the edge in tight terrain.
- Beta RR 250: Beta’s offering emphasized low-end torque and trail-friendly manners. The GAS GAS feels racier, with a sharper hit and more premium components.
Where the EC 250 stands out is its balance of old-school two-stroke character and modern refinements. The KYB suspension and Rekluse/Magura clutch package give it a premium edge that rivals struggled to match.
Maintenance: Keeping the Beast Alive
Owning a two-stroke enduro bike isn’t for the faint of heart, but the EC 250 rewards those who stay on top of maintenance:
- Engine & Carburetor: The Mikuni carb demands regular cleaning, especially if fuel sits between rides. Jet changes are straightforward, and aftermarket air filters (like Twin Air) are a must for dusty conditions.
- Premix Ratio: Stick to the 1:50 ratio (2% oil). High-quality synthetic oils like Motorex Cross Power 2T will keep the engine happy.
- Clutch & Transmission: The Rekluse clutch plates wear predictably, but the Magura hydraulic system benefits from periodic bleeding. Swap transmission oil every 15-20 hours.
- Suspension: KYB components are durable but service-intensive. Rebuild forks and shock annually if ridden hard.
- Exhaust: The FMF pipe is robust, but a aftermarket pipe guard (like P-Tech) is wise for rock strikes.
At MOTOPARTS.store, we recommend stocking up on:
- Air filters: Twin Air or No-Toil for quick swaps.
- Clutch kits: Rekluse EXP or OEM fibers/steels.
- Sprocket/chain combos: DID VT2 chains with Ironman sprockets for longevity.
- Skid plates: Acerbis or Enduro Engineering for underbody protection.
Conclusion
The GAS GAS EC 250 RACING 2T [2018-2021] is a time capsule of two-stroke glory—a bike that refuses to bow to the four-stroke hegemony. It’s raw yet refined, punishing yet forgiving, and above all, an absolute blast to ride. Whether you’re a veteran enduro rider or a two-stroke devotee seeking a modern classic, this machine deserves your attention.
And when those Michelin tires finally wear out, or the FMF pipe needs repacking, remember: MOTOPARTS.store has everything to keep your GAS GAS breathing fire.
Rev hard, ride harder.
