2021 GasGas MC 250F

Similar to KTM and Husqvarna, the GasGas MC 250F provides a premium package but a lower-than-average price.

The 2021 GasGas MC 250F tallies in as the third 250 motocrosser under the KTM/Husqvarna/GasGas umbrella and is the first-ever production 250 four-stroke MXer for GasGas. Although similar to the KTM 250 SX-F and Husqvarna FC 250, the MC 250F does have characteristics that set it apart: forged triple clamps, a header pipe free of a resonance chamber, and Maxxis MX-ST tires are the main component differences of the red machine over its Austrian counterparts. Also, the MC 250F does not come with the map/traction control switch that is a standard feature on the 250 SX-F and FC 250.

This is a new 250 motocrosser for GasGas, and as such, there aren’t “upgrades” per se. The whole machine is new.

With a price tag of $8,499, the GasGas MC 250F is $800 and $900 cheaper than the KTM and Husqvarna, respectively, and is priced only $200 more than Yamaha’s YZ250F and Kawasaki’s KX250, $500 more than Honda’s CRF250R, and $600 more than Suzuki’s RM-Z250.

Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The 250cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled engine delivers smooth, steadily building power, but does not have as much over-rev as KTM’s 250 SX-F, we reported in our first ride review. “The engine has a nice light feeling, the throttle response is good, and the mapping seems to run clean.”

Combining chassis elements like the frame and subframe from KTM, swingarm from Husqvarna, and GasGas-specific WP suspension settings, the result is a very light and nimble chassis. Stiffening the suspension could provide a better feel in the initial part of the stroke in our test rider’s opinion, but bottoming resistance is very good right out of the box.

Up-spec Brembo calipers assist in stopping the MC 250F. The front disc is 260mm in diameter and the rear disc is 220mm.

Average mpg is currently unavailable for this model, however, the 1.8-gallon fuel tank does place it in the larger-capacity realm for the class. KTM and Husqvarna, as one would expect, have the same tank size, but Yamaha, Honda, and Kawasaki offer 1.6-gallon capacities with the Suzuki at 1.7 gallons.

Again, GasGas pulls features from KTM, more specifically with the same brakes, footpegs, levers, and controls as well as a similarly shaped Neken handlebar.

The MC 250F’s electronics include a Keihin EMS and an electric starter that is powered by a lithium-ion battery. GasGas does not offer a handlebar-mounted map/traction control switch in stock trim on its 250 four-stroke motocrosser, but the component can be purchased from GasGas Technical Accessories for approximately $169.

Warranty coverage is 30 days from date of purchase.

The GasGas is a premium motorcycle with KTM and Husqvarna features, but comes at a lower price, leaving room in the budget for accessories such as the map switch if one desires.