Pierer Mobility, the parent company of KTM, Husqvarna and GasGas among others, obviously subscribes to the “get ‘em while they’re young” brand loyalty theory. GasGas has released the MC50 and MC65, both of which are full-on two-stroke racers. Not only are these bikes suitable for different age groups, but they can also literally grow to keep pace with their riders thanks to adjustable ergonomics allowing repositioning of relevant components.
GasGas also offers the MC-E 2 mini electric. Adjustable ergonomics are featured here too, along with zero-maintenance features such as no chain and sprockets thanks to the hub drive, disc brakes and, of course, no fiddling with the motor is required. The Li-ion battery takes an hour to recharge fully, but can reach 80% in just 35 minutes. Safety features are built-in, and there are three riding modes which govern the top speed. Additionally, at 27kg, parents shouldn’t need to get involved every time the bike goes over.
The Husqvarna version, the EE 2, now joins the larger EE 3 and EE 5 in the 2024 range and sells for £2399. The battery also utilises the same design as most modern power tools, making non-stop riding possible when fully charged spare batteries are available.
If mum or dad rides a KTM, then junior can do the same on the orange version with the SX-E2. As with the other brands, a non-adjustable WP hydraulic fork with 90mm travel takes care of the bumps, while a preload adjustable 34mm hydraulic mono-shock takes care of matters at the rear. The mono-shock is mounted directly to the swingarm, offering 70mm of travel, and is claimed to be perfectly matched to the front forks in terms of exceptional balance and damping characteristics.
For the competitive youngsters there are the KTM-branded versions of the GasGas models, the KTM 50 SX and 2024 KTM 65 SX. There is even a Factory Version of the 50 SX, wrapped in a Red Bull KTM Factory Racing-inspired graphics kit, with an orange, high-grip diamante KTM Factory Seat. Performance is also upped thanks to a full FMF exhaust system and Iridium FE-specific spark plug, making it the ideal choice for young up-and-coming champions.
Retail prices are: KTM 50 SX – £3999, KTM 50 SX Factory Edition – £4399, KTM 65 SX – £4999.