The 2010 KTM XC line-up made its official arrival in the States when the new orange models were debuted in Olympia, Washington this weekend at the WORCS race at Straddleline ORV park. Media were invited to ride and race the new KTMs and Husabergs in the twisty, rocky Pacific Northwest, and we got our first taste of the 2010 off-road machines.

2010 KTMs

The first piece of good news we received from KTM is that they have slimmed down their model lineup for the 2010 model year - making things a bit simpler. First off, the XC models (the closed-course off-road race bikes) are only two-strokes, and they come in three sizes: 150cc (replacing the 200), 250cc and 300cc. The XC-W bikes come in two- and four-stroke sizes ranging from 200cc to 530cc. The EXC dual-sport models are available in 450 and 530cc sizes. Also offered in 2010 are the Six Days and Champions editions.

The big new changes on the KTMs start with an entirely new triple clamp. The off-set is now 22mm (as opposed to 20mm in '09). The 150 XC features a revised frame with a steeper steering head angle (by half a degree) for better cornering.

Aimed at giving it a broader range of power, the 250 XC powerplant got some revisions including a new combustion chamber, carb settings and ignition curve. All XC models now come with the translucent tank and new exhaust pipes with thicker wall material in the expansion chamber.

The 400 XC-W and both the 450 and 530 XC-W Six Days models have a new frame design - one which lowers the point where it connects to the steering head by 10mm. This also lowers the entire backbone of the frame, and changes the geometry of the shock and swingarm. Consequently, the shock receives new valving for a more progressive feel, and the bar has a lower bend.

Among the more minor changes, the Six Days editions also feature lighter Excel rims, new Renthal "diamond" grips and KTM went from Regina to a D.I.D. x-ring chain. All models also receive the new Brembo front brake caliper (off the '09 SX models) and new Toyo brake pads.

In the motor department, the 400, 450 and 530 XC-W get a reinforced gear box, nitrate hardened compression ring and new oil ring to give it a longer lifespan in extremely dusty conditions. The 530 also gets new timing on the camshaft and ignition.

2010 Husabergs

Not to be outdone is the Husaberg line of four-stroke off-roaders. The Swedish company outdid itself last year with the launch of the all-new FE 450 and FE 570, but the Vikings are by no means resting on their laurels. Along with slight revisions to the FE 450 and 570, Husaberg released two all-new models: the FE 390 and the FX 450.

All FE models now include a headlight and tail light, spark arrestors and permeated fuel tank. (And the good news there is that equals a green sticker!) Like the KTMs, the 'Bergs also receive the new triple clamp going to a 22mm offset (from 19mm in '09).

The FE 390 features a 393.4cc motor - basically the 450 with a shorter stroke, its own piston, camshaft and EFI mapping. With more inertia on the crank and less compression, the 390 is a slightly mellower version of its 450cc sibling, but it is by no means a trail cruiser!

The 450 FX is like the XC equivalent of Husaberg. Designed with racing in mind, it features a close ratio six-speed gear box, more aggressive suspension with the WP closed-cartridge 48mm fork. Unlike the FEs, the FX does not have a headlight or tail light. It also features a 19" rear wheel for lighter weight, and also with the purpose of giving the owners a wider selection of tires to use.

For more details and our first riding impressions on the new 2010 KTM and Husaberg models, stay tuned to Cycle News!