We had the opportunity to ride the electric Stark Varg in California this week. Last year, we were supposed to attend a global press launch in Barcelona, Spain to test a pre-production version. Unfortunately, the trip was canceled because one of the participants, Mark Tilley, tested positive for Covid-19. However, there are now a few full production models available in the country, mainly with district sales reps and a few dealers. We have to admit, we were extremely impressed by the technology and performance of this bike.
After months of surveillance, the upcoming Porsche Boxster EV has finally been spotted with its final lights. Although the prototype is still partially covered in camouflage, we can see that the headlights feature the signature four-point LED design, while the rear sports a pair of wide parallel lines. However, Porsche still insists on adding a fake exhaust tip in the center of the bumper, for some unknown reason.
The electric Boxster is still a work in progress, as evident from the mix of old and new body parts, but it already showcases massive brakes both at the front and rear. Last month, spy shots revealed an all-new interior for the Boxster EV, featuring a dual-screen setup and capacitive-touch controls. The dashboard layout is quite similar to the 911, but with a focus on a two-seat configuration instead of a 2+2 layout.
We recently had the opportunity to test ride the electric Stark Varg bike here in California. Although our previous plans for a test ride in Barcelona were canceled due to a positive Covid test, we were excited to finally experience the Stark Varg in action. Currently, there are only a few full production models available in the country, mainly with district sales reps and select dealers. However, those who have pre-ordered the bike can expect delivery by the end of the year. Additionally, authorized dealers like Temecula Motorsports will soon have the bikes in stock.
It’s thrilling to ride a nearly silent motocross bike like the Stark Varg. Once you get used to it, you’ll love the experience.
During our time with the Stark Varg, we were incredibly impressed by its technology and performance. However, it’s important to note that riding this electric bike requires some adjustments in riding technique and lifestyle. Justin Bellerose, a full-time Stark sales representative, gave us a couple of days to shoot and ride the bike at Glen Helen. Throughout our time with the bike, we had to recharge it a few times using a generator at the track. Managing the battery’s power and finding the right track for optimal performance will be crucial. For instance, Glen Helen, with its loose dirt and steep hills, can deplete the battery quickly. In fact, we ran out of power after just 40 minutes of stop-and-go riding while filming a video on the main track. However, with the right charging program, the bike can be used for a full day of racing at an amateur level. Justin used a Harbor Freight generator to charge the bike in about 4 hours, but with a 220-volt outlet, it can be done in just 2 hours. Superchargers may also be installed at tracks in the future, starting with Glen Helen.
The Stark Varg has a base price of $12,900. Early orders were placed online, but now dealerships are being set up for future orders.
Setting aside the challenges of battery life, the Stark Varg is an impressive piece of technology. It delivers exceptional horsepower and power delivery. Despite its speed, it effectively transfers power to the ground, making it a thrilling ride. The bike’s primary interface resembles a detachable cell phone, which allows riders to adjust power output and engine braking. Five settings can be saved and easily selected using a handlebar switch. The highest power output on this model claims to be 80 horsepower, which we initially questioned but found to be true during our test rides. The Varg easily outperformed a 2024 Husqvarna FC450 in practice starts, roll-ons, and drag races on un-prepped, hard-packed soil. In terms of power settings, the 60-horsepower option proved most effective.
The Varg offers impressive power, with the option to configure it with 80 horsepower.
On the track, it takes time to adjust to the Stark Varg. It offers a unique experience with new aspects to consider. Our demo bike was equipped with a traditional foot brake, but lacked a shifter or clutch lever, thanks to its automatic transmission and Rekluse automatic clutch. While adjusting to these missing components can take some time, it ultimately reduces the rider’s workload. However, it’s important to note that the clutch is often used to modulate power output on a regular bike. This nuanced control is replaced by a single control in the Varg: the throttle. Although the engineers have done an excellent job of providing smooth power delivery, riders must possess good throttle control. Once this skill is honed, riders can work the throttle to find the best traction. However, it becomes more challenging at higher power settings. For the dry summertime conditions at Glen Helen, the 50-horsepower setting worked best for us.
Charging the bike’s battery takes approximately 2 hours with a 220-volt outlet or 4 hours with a 110-volt capability.
Not only did Stark successfully develop new powertrain technology for the Varg, but they also created an entirely new chassis. The minimal frame design is centered around a battery and features a swingarm at one end and a fork at the other. Considering the difficulty that established brands face in designing frames with the right flexibility, it’s impressive that Stark achieved such good handling with their first attempt. The bike’s chassis is slightly stiff, but the suspension, consisting of a KYB fork and shock, is well-balanced. According to reports, former motocross champion Sebastian Tortelli played a significant role in its development. While we didn’t extensively test the suspension during our short encounter with the bike, it felt well-tuned and didn’t require much attention.
The detachable cell phone on the steering head allows riders to customize power output. A handlebar-mounted button enables quick switching between different pre-set settings.
We were only just beginning to discover how life with an electric bike would be when our time with the Stark Varg came to an end. While it is not a maintenance-free bike, the Varg requires regular upkeep for its chassis, suspension, gearbox oil, and coolant. The motor also features liquid cooling, with the radiator located under the seat and an electric fan to keep it cool. Once there is better availability, Stark plans to offer a long-term test program with the bike. We are especially excited about exploring its performance in off-road conditions, where softer spring rates, a side stand, and an 18-inch rear wheel can be added. Stay tuned for more updates in the future.
We recently had the opportunity to ride the 2024 KTM 300SX, and it did not disappoint. We were already familiar with the 2023 version, which left a lasting impression on us. Prior to 2023, KTM did not produce the 300SX for the U.S. market. Instead, buyers had to build it from a kit or modify an off-road bike. Some riders attempted to use the 300XC for motocross, but it didn’t quite fit, especially with the Transfer Port Fuel Injection added in 2018. While the injection system provided smooth off-road power delivery, it lacked the aggressive nature necessary for motocross. But now, KTM has introduced a whole new two-stroke engine platform with the 300SX. This bike features electric start, an electronic power valve, and throttle body fuel injection. While these components have been seen before individually, KTM has integrated them in a way we haven’t seen before. The bike’s CPU controls everything, including the powervalve’s timing and opening. This level of control is new to production bikes. Additionally, the chassis has been improved to match the specifications of the four-strokes, making it stiffer and more anti-squat. The suspension remains the same with a WP Xact air fork at the front and an Xact shock in the rear. The brakes and hydraulics are still Brembo, and you still need to mix oil and gas yourself for premix.
Ray Obermeyer on the 2024 KTM 300SX.
The 300SX is incredibly fast, potentially faster than even the most powerful 450s on a dyno. This is due to the way the power is delivered. At low RPMs, the 300SX is smooth and clean, allowing for respectable lap times without having to constantly stay in the powerband. However, the real power of the 300SX kicks in in the mid-range and hits hard. This may take some getting used to for riders accustomed to the smooth power delivery of modern four-strokes. Nevertheless, it opens up new possibilities for different riding techniques. Unlike most 450 riders who rely on the clutch for hard braking to avoid stalling, the 300SX allows you to brake hard without touching the clutch and then use old-school throttle control when needed.
The KTM 300SX sells for $9399.
The bike offers two maps that can be selected using the handlebar switch. Currently, KTM has locked the ECU to prevent end users from experimenting with other maps, as there are numerous ways it could go wrong. The green map, which provides an exhilarating ride, is favored by most riders simply because it’s fun. However, for non-professional riders, the gray map is recommended. It lacks the strong power hit and thrill of the green map but offers better overall performance and less rider fatigue. Ideally, KTM should offer more than just two maps, with five being a more suitable number. JD Jetting already offers a piggyback fuel controller that allows for some mapping adjustments, such as fuel delivery, but spark advance and power valve settings cannot be altered on the fly.
We still love this bike. It’s fast and incredibly fun. The KTM 300SX is the ultimate practice bike, and once you master the two-stroke technique, it becomes a great race bike as well. Stay tuned for more information on this bike in the November 2023 print edition of Dirt Bike magazine.
KAWASAKI KX250 FIRST RIDE
Jared Hicks on the 2024 Kawasaki KX250
This week, we also had the opportunity to ride the 2024 Kawasaki KX250. This bike remains unchanged from last year as Kawasaki focused on releasing an all-new 450 model. The KX450 will have an official introduction at the SuperMotocross World Championship Finals on September 22, 2023. We have a great mix between the KX450 and KX250 with Mark Tilley loving the former and me favoring the latter. One of the reasons I really enjoy the KX250 is because it’s a high-revving machine. It produces significant power at high RPMs, and if I miss a shift, it’s always ready to rev higher. The bike also has good mid-range power, beating all other bikes in the 2023 250 Shootout from 9500 RPM to 12,000 RPM. Only then does the KTM catch up and surpass it by a small margin.
I really appreciate the hydraulic clutch and the impressive brakes. However, I must admit that the KX250 could use some updated mapping options. It still relies on the three couplers and none of the pre-programmed maps are perfect. The bike tends to run slightly erratic and occasionally stall. It would be fantastic to have a tuning app similar to what Kawasaki is offering for the new 450. Perhaps next year.
TENNESSEE KNOCKOUT: RIGHT NOW!
The 2023 Tennessee Knockout enduro is happening this weekend and will be broadcast on MAV TV at a later date. Many top riders, including Billy Bolt, Jonny Walker, Cody Webb, and Colton Haaker, are participating. We will provide the results here, but in the meantime, you can check out last year’s event.
CASEY FOLKS VEGAS TO RENO
The 2023 Best in The Desert Vegas to Reno race started this morning and is celebrating its 30th anniversary. Casey Folks, the founder of the race, established this event almost 30 years ago, and his family continues to run it successfully. You can follow the live timing of the Vegas to Reno race here to see which riders are leading the pack. Unofficially, Danny Cooper seems to be leading in the Open Pro motorcycle division.
WORCS RETURNS
While most other forms of off-road racing are on hiatus for the summer, WORCS will be starting again on September 15 at Buckskin Hills Recreation Complex in Utah. On the same weekend, the GNCC series will kick off in Beckley, West Virginia for the Mountaineer event. The AMA National Grand Prix Championship will resume a few weeks later on September 30 for Ridgecrest. Time flies, so these races will be here before you know it!
JETT LAWRENCE
BUDD’S CREEK
Although the 450 class has already concluded, there’s still plenty of action to watch in the 250 class at Budds Creek. Plus, we may witness Jett’s perfect season. Here are the broadcast details:
BROADCAST TEAM Play by Play: Jason Weigandt Analysts: Ricky Carmichael Reporters: Will Christien & Jason Thomas HOW TO WATCH Saturday, August 19 Pro Motocross Championship: Race Day Live Peacock @ 7 a.m. PT / 10 a.m. ET Pro Motocross Championship: Budds Creek National [LIVE] Peacock @ 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET Monday, August 21 Pro Motocross Championship: Budds Creek National Replay CNBC, NBCSports.com, NBC Sports App 11 p.m. PT [Sunday] / 2 a.m. ET
Even if you can’t afford a Ferrari SF90 XX, you can still create your dream version of this new supercar. The configurator is now available for both the coupe and Spider models. The hardtop SF90 XX is priced at $846,000 (770,000 euros) with a limited production of 799 units, while the convertible version costs around $934,000 (850,000 euros) and will have 599 cars produced.
The factory color options for the SF90 XX include 22 exterior colors. Among them, three are Special Shades: Bianco Cervino (shown above), Bianco Artico, and Rosso Le Mans 2023 Opaco. You can also customize the lower fascia trim, hood, roof inlets (on the coupe), and wing end caps with colors like Giallo Modena, Flash Orange, Azzurro Dino, or exposed carbon fiber.
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