KTM 300 EXC vs Husqvarna TE 300

Honest rider comparison of the KTM 300 EXC and Husqvarna TE 300 for hard enduro: PDS vs linkage feel, seat height, ground clearance, and the right pick for technical terrain.

Husqvarna TE 300

Husqvarna · 293cc · 2-stroke

Quick answer

Choose the KTM 300 EXC if you want PDS rear suspension, maximum ground clearance, and the most direct hard enduro platform in the KTM group. Choose the Husqvarna TE 300 if you prefer linkage feel, a slightly more planted rear, and a premium white-bike package with strong technical capability.

Who wins for which rider

Rider-need verdicts. The right pick depends on what you actually ride and how you ride it.

Steep technical terrain

KTM 300 EXC

PDS gives more ground clearance and fewer linkage hang-ups on rocks and roots.

Linkage feel for planted rear

Husqvarna TE 300

The TE 300 platform feels more progressive in the rear for many riders on faster terrain.

Beginner confidence

Husqvarna TE 300

Slightly softer initial delivery and a more forgiving rear suspension feel.

Race pace in hard enduro

KTM 300 EXC

Direct KTM hard enduro lineage, sharper feel, and the most parts/support at the top of the sport.

Value for money

KTM 300 EXC

Usually priced below the equivalent Husqvarna while sharing the same KTM-group engine and chassis.

Side-by-side specs

Spec	KTM 300 EXC	Husqvarna TE 300
Brand	KTM	Husqvarna
Displacement (cc)	293.15	293.15
Engine stroke	2	2
Power (HP)	49	49
Torque (Nm)	43.8	43.8
Weight (kg)	104.4	107
Seat height (mm)	963	952
Fuel capacity (L)	9	8
Gears	6	6
Start type	Electric	Electric
Front suspension	WP XACT-USD, Ø 48 mm	WP XACT cartridge Ø 48 mm
Rear suspension	WP XPLOR shock absorber with PDS	WP XACT Monoshock with linkage
Frame	Aluminum-reinforced polyamide	Central double-cradle-type 25CrMo4 steel
Front brake	260 mm disc brake	260 mm disc brake
Rear brake	220 mm disc brake	220 mm disc brake
Clutch	DDS multi-disc clutch in oil bath, with Brembo hydraulic drive	Wet, DDS multi-disc clutch, Brembo hydraulics
Price (EUR)	11435	11699

What each bike is really like

KTM 300 EXC

Full specs →

Sharp, light, and direct. Excels in steep, technical terrain where ground clearance matters more than rear plushness.

Best for

Riders prioritising hard enduro ground clearance.
Riders who like PDS simplicity in the rocks.
Riders who want the most direct KTM hard enduro lineage.

Think twice if

You strongly prefer linkage feel.
You want the lowest seat possible.
You have poor KTM dealer support locally.

Setup notes

Dial PDS sag carefully — it rewards a good setup.
Lower gearing 13/50 or 13/52 is a popular hard enduro starting point.
Run a proper skid plate and handguards before tough rides.

Husqvarna TE 300

Full specs →

Planted and predictable rear suspension feel, especially on faster sections and roots. Slightly more refined road manners than the KTM.

Best for

Riders who want linkage feel in fast, rolling terrain.
Riders who prefer the Husqvarna ergonomics and finish.
Riders who want a slightly calmer initial throttle response.

Think twice if

You want maximum ground clearance for extreme terrain.
You want the cheapest entry into a KTM-group 300.
You have limited Husqvarna dealer support locally.

Setup notes

Linkage gives you more setup range — invest time in sag and rebound.
Stock map switch is useful; learn the soft map for slick terrain.
Mousse or Tubliss rear is recommended for serious hard enduro use.

Setup and skills

Bike choice is only half the story. Gearing, tires, suspension setup, and clutch control change the bike more than most riders expect.

Common questions

Is the KTM 300 EXC better than the Husqvarna TE 300?

Both share KTM-group engines and chassis. The KTM 300 EXC is the more direct hard enduro tool with PDS rear suspension and the highest ground clearance. The Husqvarna TE 300 uses a linkage rear and feels more planted on faster terrain. The right choice depends on your terrain, ergonomics preference, and dealer support.

Is PDS better than linkage for hard enduro?

PDS removes a linkage that can hang up on rocks and roots, which is why many extreme enduro riders prefer it. Linkage rear suspension can feel more progressive on faster terrain. For pure hard enduro, PDS often wins on technical sections.

Which 300 two-stroke is better for beginners?

Many beginners get along well with the Husqvarna TE 300 because of its slightly softer initial throttle delivery and planted rear suspension. The KTM 300 EXC is also beginner-capable when set up well, especially with softer maps and proper sag.