EMD's 2009 TM TEST
The Italian race bred TM's have released their 2009 model enduro thoroughbreds. The EMD test team took them riding to give our impression.
TM Racing pride themselves in fulfilling a niche market. A couple of mates taking a prototype experimental machine to the 1977 Milan Motorcycle Show has evolved into a thriving company producing two and four stroke machines for Enduro, Motocross, and Supermoto. They are also very repected in the Karting world. TM Racing (named after Thomas and Mirko, sons of the founders) is imported and distributed in Australia by Cross Country Action in Cessnock, NSW. |
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While many may not know the intricacies of the brand or the bikes, they are fast losing their boutique tag with increasing popularity. For TM purists this could be a bitter pill, but for the average Clubman racer, or trail hack, the pill could be much sweeter. The 2009 TM Racing fleet was rumoured to be even better than 2008, with no huge upgrades, but more refinement on last years alloy perimeter framed release. EMD was enthusiastic to bring you guys the good guts.
When Malcolm Hall, from Cross Country Action, offered to give us the bikes to test, I was expecting a salesman and possibly an apprentice to attend the test, and watch over proceedings. But true to "boutique" form, it was Mal himself, Andrew Frost his Head mechanic, and Quinton Knight an associate that trucked the bikes up. I was very impressed. Trust me, that isn't standard industry practice. A couple of the EMD test crew own TM machines, and sing their praises at any opportunity. They have a reputation as difficult to ride, harsh suspended machines, that are a challenge for anyone below A grade level in riding ability. Therefore, even though somewhat nervous, we couldn't pass up the challenge to do a ride impression from the perspective of Joe average , right through to Expert class. |
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The bike lineup was dependant on arrivals from Italy, as we tested them within a fortnight of arrival on Aussie soil. And we lucked big time. When Mal rang to say he would be bringing the 250 and 300 two stroke, and 450 four stroke machines, I was stoked. Then one of the local lads, Andrew, offered to give us one of the first 09 530's to take out to the test track. It was a brave move, and generally agreed that only limited riders (Garry and Todd) would be climbing astride the big beast, as it was destined for the dirt track speedway shortly after the test day.
The EMD Test Team
| Garry Dukes |  |
| Age: 40 | |
| Weight: 75kg | |
| Current Bike: 2009 Husaberg FE450 | |
| Rider Grade: Expert
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| Garry is the professional face of the EMD test team. While no spring chicken, he is one of the fittest and determined racers I have witnessed, evidenced by a second in the 2007 Australian Off Road series (Veteran class), and winner of the 2007 NSW Stadium Motocross Series (Over 35’s).More recently he gained a 5th in 2008 A4DE (over 35's), and a 2nd in 2008 NSW Rockstar MX Championship O30's. In his younger years he was a Kawasaki Factory MX/SX racer. Currently sponsored by Sutto’s MC, he is known in the industry for his bike setup, and professionalism. | |
| Rob Mendham |  |
| Age: 38 | |
| Weight: 83kg | |
| Current Bike: 2004 TM 250EN 2 Stroke | |
| Rider
Grade: Clubman (A grade)
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| Former A grade motocross rider, amassing a number of local titles, Rob has more recently competed in the NSW Enduro scene. Again with age not on his side (seems to be a pattern), he is an extremely capable rider, with fitness and consistency his key. Rob is well versed in KTM attributes, having owned a 2004 KTM300EXC before his foray back into the Italian bikes. | |
| Glen Partridge
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| Age: 47 | |
| Weight: 82kg | |
| Current Bike: 2007 TM 450 | |
| Rider Grade: VET | |
| Glen has four decades of bikes in his blood. His dad Joe was one of the foundation members of the Clarence motocross track, and Glen literally cut his teeth on two wheels. With a comfortable and smooth riding style, he is deceptively fast. Glen raced competitively in motocross and grasstrack until a major fall in 1999. Best known as the face of the Sunny Corner Rally, Previous to the transition to TM, he owned a number of KTM’s, including 300EXC, and 525EXC-R. | |
| David Lincoln
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| Age: 35 | |
| Weight: 80kg | |
| Current Bike: 2002WR250 2 Stroke | |
| Rider Grade: Intermediate | |
| Dave’s fitness and athleticism allows consistent and fast trail times. With thousands of km's of technical single trail to his name, he brings to the test the perspective of an experienced trailrider. | |
| Shane Corney |  |
| Age: 37 | |
| Weight: 89kg | |
| Current Bike: 2005 Husaberg FE450 | |
| Rider
Grade: Intermediate
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| EMD roving reporter. Experienced trailrider, and where fitness lacks, enthusiasm abounds. | |
| Todd Chamberlain
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| Age: 38 | |
| Weight: 92kg | |
| Current Bike: 2008 TM 450 | |
| Rider Grade:Expert | |
| Former A grade motocross rider, amassing a number of local titles. Todd has competed in the NSW Enduro scene and Sprint series (Expert over 35's) with a high degree of success. He is also gaining some very good results in the NSW and Aussie Dirt Track Championships.A very talented rider who uses his height to his advantage. | |
Test Day
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We started "Test Day" with some trail riding as per previous tests. This gives us some foundation to make judgement once we get to the special test timed section. The special test we use is too intense, and fatiguing, to become accustomed to a new bike without a reasonable amount of trail time. Each rider rode trails that they felt best suited an evalution. Within the riding area is a diverse range of terrain, and specifically targetted were sections that had recently provided some "challenge" to our riding group. Clearly it is advantageous to ride in known areas with familiar tracks. A combination of single trail, firetrail, pine forest, and natural bush were used. There were no Erzberg type hills , but some rocky and snotty sections that would pose serious challenge to the average punter. So all bases covered! |
Within minutes of first riding the bikes, specifically the 250 two stroke,I had a sick feeling in my guts. The bikes handling was ordinary, with the reputed "skitter" front end highly evident. How was I going to report on a bike I hated riding? I rode back to the pit area, and voiced my concerns to Mal, feeling unconfortable. He looked at me, smiled, and said, "No worries, thats what we're here for. What would you like me to change?". I breathed a sigh of relief with his reaction. I looked over at Garry, and he had a similar look on his face. He had been experiencing similar difficulties. |
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With a few minor jetting changes to suit the elevation and temperature, the bikes ran as crisp as. And then with clickers etc. adjusted, sag set, and a couple of other minor settings, we were back on the bikes.
What a difference!!! The bikes performed and handled like different machines.There was absolutely no comparison. Now riding with a huge smile on my face, it highlighted the fact that without proper setup for conditions, and location, a great bike can be quickly viewed in a different light.
So the lesson to be learnt from this is to ensure that a bike, be it yours, or just one you are riding, is setup properly. Some balancing was required in this case due to the different rider height, weight, and ability. So for individual setup the results would be even better! The more refined the bike, the more important this is. I really appreciated the CCA team, and the valuable input by our Expert rider, Garry Dukes. Thanks boys. |
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“Suspension Test Loop” – Down to business
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With the casual part of the day all but done, it was time to see how these bikes performed under more demanding conditions. Testers were tasked with riding each of the bikes around our “Suspension Test”. This loop is the training ground of a number of Expert and Clubmen riders with our group. It has been a major part of fitness and bike setup regimes for NSW Enduro, Australian Off Road Series, and A4DE riders. As testers we felt it important to test the bikes in a familiar environment, enabling delivery of consistent lap times. Any difference could then be attributed to bike performance, not rider-track familiarity. The loop is an eighteen hundred metre track located in established pine plantation forest, providing an array of riding conditions. Entirely single track, mostly rutted with the occasional bermed corner, acceleration and braking bumps are a feature rather than a detraction. |
One straight exists of about 75m in length, and as typical of forest tracks, roots are everywhere. Predominately hard packed on higher levels, some of the lower lying areas are loamy and wet. All in all it is a difficult, demanding track necessitating one hundred percent concentration.
The Bikes – Testers Opinion.
2009 TM Racing - All EN (Enduro model) Updates
- Revised aluminium frame design for better clearance
- New headlight with Halogen Globe
-New Headlight with LED lamps
- New more durable Seat cover
- Factory Replica Graphics
- New Electronic Speedometer
- New revised Marzocchi fork settings with less stiction for initial plusher stroke.
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EN250 Two Stroke
| Model: | EN250 |  |
| Capacity : | 249cc | |
| Weight : | 98kg (no fuel, ready to race) | |
| Ground Clearance: | 360mm | |
| Transmission: | 5 speed | |
| Fuel Capacity: | 9L | |
| Final Drive Gearing: | 13:51 | |
| Starter : | Kick |
Garry
My 1st ride impression of these bikes was the firm and harsh steering of the front suspension that wanted to over steer during cornering and the rich jetting off the bottom. This was soon overcome with some quick mod's.
Jetting was rectified with an adjustment of the needle jet and fine tuning of the mixture screw. For the front suspension, the forks were raised 10mm through the triple clamps to improve cornering. Compression clickers were backed off a few clicks and the rebound slowed. We were now set to go testing.
The front Marzocchi’s reacted well to minor clicker adjustments and the handling and steering were drastically improved. The suspension although firm, was very plush in the initial stroke and soaked up much of our test track. The TM’s suspension seems to work better, the more aggressively you treated it and that allowed for some fast lap times.
Suspension setup would generally suit larger experienced riders of 90kg or more. Lighter riders would benefit from possibly lighter springs and backing off the clickers. Pro level racers would love this machine straight out of the crate.
TM’s have become renowned for their factory prepped engines and two stroke fans will just love it’s smooth, but strong engine. For a 250 there was certainly plenty of horse power on tap, and the addition of a dual ignition curve switch is a great option. Overall, the feel of the 250 was impressive, and the cockpit geometry was well balanced on both the open trails, and tight single wheel.
Lap time - 3min 40sec
Rob
I currently own an 04 model and was surprised with the difference with both the suspension and engine. This year models suspension is initially stiffer valved than the Ohlins at the front, yet after a few minutes, it is not noticable. The stiffer springs at both ends encourage you to hit obstacles harder, and it is one of those bikes that you will go faster on it the more you get used to it. I was surprised at the power of this engine off idle. It has a noticable improvement over my 04 model, and this makes the bike easier to ride. Handling wise it is very similar to my bike, yet the chassis allows you to turn in very quick and with more accuracy.
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Who should buy this bike? This engine would suit the intermediate to advanced rider, and the chassis / suspension will encourage you to go quicker, and become a better rider as a result. This is an all round package that will suit the majority of riders. Two stroke fans will love this bike. This would be the best 250cc two stroke that I have ridden. I lapped the same time on this bike as on my own. On the flowing singletrack, the bike rips.
Lap time - 4min 0sec.
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Shane
Although I used to be a big fan of 250cc two strokes, this enthusiasm has waned in recent times. This is largely due to the fact that as an enduro product, they have been, in my opinion less and less rider friendly. Possibly fine for a Pro class rider, but for the average trail hack they just haven't cut it.
This bike has resurrected my enthusiasm. Its rider friendly, tractable power utilises torque like I haven't experienced on a 250cc smoker. One one snotty, rocky hill in particular, I was sure it would bring this bike unstuck, but it tractored up with ease. It reminded me of my old KTM300EXC.
It feels light, has good "flickability", and stops on a two bob bit. As with the hills, it was just as at home on both fast flowing single trail, and tighter sections. The suspension adjustments Cross Country made to the bike made a significant difference to its handling. Previous to this the front was washing out, and overall the suspension package had little feel. Afterwards, it was simply awesome, and is evidence that suspension does need to be customised to rider, style, and terrain. Even the clickers made a huge difference. |
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The Special Test times on this bike are amongst the best I have clocked. It is that good that I actually felt a bit disappointed in the 300 by comparison. This is the best two stroke 250cc I have ever ridden.
Time: 4 min 25 sec.
Glen
The 250 provides a real neat package. The suspension proved very good with a plush, but yet progressive feel. It was very easy to keep on line, with no deflection. Basically, its a very nimble, and light bike, that is easy to ride. These three things are very high on my requirement list for a bike.
The excellent brakes enabled a high level of rider control at fast and slow speed, and I believe it suitability to rider and terrain is without limit. Its that good that riders of all abilities would find it suitable to take anywhere, except on the tar. No two stroke belongs there!
Before riding this bike I didn't think I would ever even be interested in owning another 250 two stroke. Quite possibly that feeling has changed. I could be very interested.
Dave
This bike was a real surprise packet. Previous to riding it, i wouldn't have picked it to be the awesome ride it is.
General handling of the 250 was superb, soaking up even the biggest hits. Its light, and the strength in the low down torque assists in its slow speed handing. I noticed a distinct difference between the mapping setting on the 250, which I didn't feel was as noticeable on the 300. Setting 1 was crisp and peaky, good for the open stuff. And setting 2 was more sedate, and the preferable setting for trails and hills.In all it is good to have the option selectable on the bars. Overall the 250 is a great bike that suits a variety of track, and its versatility makes it suitable for all riders Amateur to Pro. The best 250cc two stoke bike I have ridden. |
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Time: 4min 20sec
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Todd
As all who know me will say, I am not a two stroke person, but having ridden the 09 TM250, I could well be converted. In the trails it inspires riding confidence in spades, and it felt like I could take on the world - bring on Erzberg! It feels light and slim, with some very trick looking gear. If it was a chick it would be Jennifer Hawkins - nice.
The handling started out a bit sketchy, but after some setup and clicker adjustments, it handled perfectly. I had two burnt hands courtesy of a hot exhaust on another bike, and the fact I was still able to ride is a testament to the riding ease of this bike.
The engine package has improved so much in the tractability stakes. I don't think anyone would feel uncomfortable on this bike.
The only downside in my opinion is the straight up price, but ultimately you pay for what you get. And this is a race ready package with only the highest quality fitment.
Time: Didn't get one. Pain from burnt hands was cruel by this time.
EN300 Two Stroke
| Model: | EN300 |  |
| Capacity : | 294cc | |
| Weight : | 98kg (no fuel, ready to race) | |
| Ground Clearance: | 360mm | |
| Transmission: | 5 speed | |
| Fuel Capacity: | 9L | |
| Final Drive Gearing: | 13:51 | |
| Starter : | Kick |
Garry
Having carried out the same suspension and jetting adjustments as the 250, we were straight into testing. Immediately, it was obvious this bike had some serious raw power.
The combination of firm suspension and brute power may intimidate some clubman riders, but experienced trail blazers will love this bike in the open flowing trails where you can use taller gears and wind open the throttle.
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I believe the 300 would benefit from a slightly softer suspension package that would help the engine get its power to the ground. Overall, the bike felt comfortable on a mixture of open trails, but lacked the versatility of both the 250 and 450 machines.
Lap times: 3min 51sec
Rob
I owned one of these over 2000 - 2003 and cannot believe the advancements in handling over that time. There is still an absolutely awesome punch from mid to top, and I have never ridden a bike that would out accelerate this thing from mid to top. This bike would be the one to get to race in grasstrack / motocross. If you like getting holeshots, then throw your leg over this weapon and get ready to blast off.
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Who should buy this bike? Firstly, the person who wants to ride this bike will need to be fit. Secondly, do not touch this bike if you are not an advanced rider,as throttle control is a must. Thirdly, this bike is awesome when you can let the engine rev to its potential, though make sure you have your weight forward. Tight single wheel tracks do not work well with this engine, but flowing single wheel starts to use its potential.Wide open grasstracks will put a smile on your face a mile wide. I lapped slowest on this bike in the special test - (very tight track). On the flowing firetrails, this bike is a awesome ! |
Time: 4min 5sec.
Shane
I would love to see some stats on the power to weight ratio of this bike in standard kit. It certainly makes some serious power.
When riding it, the bikes lightness and ergonomics seem to encourage an aggressive style. Backing this up with rider ability to suit is a tad more challenging, so that in the end lifting up a gear and lugging through the trails using the mountains of torque appears to be a better option
After riding the 250, this bike just felt too flighty for the type of trails we ride. Certainly the bike can be ridden a gear higher, and it an be detuned to become more tractable. But to be put simply, doing this is trying to replicate what the 250 already more than adequately provides.
Time: 4min 32sec
Glen
I used to ride a KTM300EXC, and so I jumped aboard the TM300 and tried to ride it on the pipe, but found that the TM motor was far to aggressive with this style in the trails. By riding a gear higher, it changed the tempo of the bike and I thought it was brilliant.
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The suspension was plush and easy to stay on line. The rear tracks well, and combined with the narrow ergonomics, and light feel, I felt it handled excellently. The brakes were great, one finger operation, and stopped on a dime. The great bottom end power on this bike makes it suitable for all terrain, and even more surprisingly, for all rider types. With the broad spread of power a Pro could ride it on the pipe in trail tearing format, or the clubman could amble along at his own speed. |
I was sold on the 300, until i rode the 250 and 450. Now there is only one word for my feeling - Confused. Actually two words - Totally Confused. I liked them all that much.
Dave
The 300 has a very torquey engine, and I found going one gear higher, allowed it go anywhere without excessive sheelspin. Basically its a very controllable bike, but opening the throttle still gives the familiar rush of two two stroke power.
It handled perfectly through the trail sections, and rode over some reasonably rocky section without deflection. I thought it was set up reasonably soft for trails, and I liked this aspect.
Around the special test track the difference between the 250 and the 300 was evident . When pushed this bike keeps delivering, and can be more of a handful than the 250. This gives it appeal from trailrider right through to enduro pro, but it is only the pro that will use the bike anywhere near its potential.
The gear lever did take a bit of getting used to. As a brand new bike it needed a positive push to move for gear changes, but this could loosen up a bit with some kilometers under its belt.
Lap Time 4:20
Todd
By the time I rode the 300 my burnt hands were killing me. Its a really nice bike, but felt I needed more time on it to appreciate it.
The bike was set up a little too stiff for me, and this is one potentially mean machine. Hanging onto it with blisters was not great. One very strong engine here.
I was unlucky enough to ride it on a tight, rough, snotty track and I don't think the 300 suits this terrain as much as the 250 two stroke. In stock trim it really suits someone who has no fear of speed, but in saying that it can be set up to suit personal style. And in that case this bike will chug up a wall.
To be honest, I did enjoy the 250 much better, but by the time I rode the 300 my hands weren't pretty. so anything I say past that could be being unfair.
TM EN450 FES
New for 2009 Model 450cc EN
- Longer con-rod for more progressive power.
- Shorter, lighter piston for better response with only one compression ring and one oil ring.
- Revised ignition timing & carburetor settings to compliment new con-rod & piston.
- Improved exhaust timing.
- Revised timing chain guide for easier maintenance.
| Model: | EN450 FES |  |
| Capacity : | 449cc | |
| Weight : | 113kg (no fuel, ready to race) | |
| Ground Clearance: | 340mm | |
| Transmission: | 5 speed | |
| Fuel Capacity: | 9L | |
| Final Drive Gearing: | 13:51 | |
| Starter : | Electric & Kick |
Garry
This bike is a real head turner with its polished alloy perimeter frame, Ohlins and Marzocchi suspension and plenty of anodizing that matches its blue outfit.
Like the two strokes, suspension was also prepped in the same fashion and responded well to fork height adjustment. The 450 was initially quite flighty on skatey hard packed surfaces and the rebound was quite quick.
Jetting was also modified with the needle clip raised one position and the mixture screw tuned. The results were quickly apparent and equally impressive. The factory had produced another thoroughbred ready to race.
The 450 engine was quite responsive with plenty of mid range and top end. The dual ignition switch is also standard, and the less aggressive setting was used this time on our special test track.
The firm suspension worked better with the four strokes linear power range, than it did on the two strokes, and the 450 seemed to track through the rougher terrain while still getting its power to the ground.
The bike was some times hesitant to start on the starter button as it was looking for TDC, I believe it may just require some km’s on the clock to loosen up.
Brakes were also good on all the TM’s, and the hydraulic clutch gave great control
My size 8 boots were a little short on reaching the gear lever sometimes which resulted in some false neutrals, however there’s room to flex the lever back.
Overall geometry was good and equally balanced. This bike steered very well in the standing position, where the suspension was allowed to work beneath you. For this reason it was my pick over the 250.
The TM’s offer a great product which is more catered to the racer in mind, but with some minor suspension mod's would certainly appeal to the clubman class of rider.
Lap times: 3min 40sec
Rob
I rode the 450 before adjustments were made to the rider setup and suspension, and I was still really impressed, so that is saying something. When you first get on the 450 it feels a lot wider than the two strokes, but this could be just perception.
It a confidence inspiring bike, that actually seems to encourage you to get weight forward when in the standing position. And because the Zoccies seem to stick better than the Ohlins forks, less front end washing occurs.
Always having been a two stroke fan, I have held out against pressure from my mates about four strokes. This has been primarily due to the fact that I have been able to ride faster through the rough stuff on a smoker. After riding the 450 though, this view has altered. This bike turns in very, very well. I was able to ride faster through the rough corners due to the combination of consistent traction, and light handling. Initially I did find it hard to find a forward position while sitting, but by rolling the bars forward this was largely alleviated. I lapped faster on this bike than my own 250, and that was before the suspension mod's. I would have loved to have spent some more time on the bike, as I feel it has huge potential for faster laps by at least a few seconds. I didn't like the front tyres, and would change them to my personally preferred choice. The bike did also have a little flat spot of idle, but both of these things are setup issues and really not a detraction from the bike itself. This was my favorite of the three bikes, it is awesome. An intermediate to advanced rider would get the most out of it, but really it would suit any level of rider. |
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Time 3min 58sec
Shane
The 450 is so versatile. It is just at home cruising on a fire trail, as it is an enduro weapon in the bush. Although still distinctly a four stroke in behaviour, as well as a noticable difference in weight, it still handles the tight trails with ease.
The forte of the 450, when compared to the two stroke 250 and 300, is the rear wheel drive that can be maintained when the track gets rough. Instead of deflection and slip, the 450 is so smooth. This was particularly noticable on the braking and acceleration bumps in the special test.
This doesn't mean that that the bike is placcid, as when the throttle is cracked, this thing hammers. I found the standing position really comfortable. The ergos are slim though the seat, but do have enough grip around the tank area.
The hydraulic clutch is light, with a nice feel. Brakes are firm, and at first seem too strong, but I quickly got used to them, and liked the responsive feel.
One of the things I love about this bike is the quality. Its a really trick looking bike, and as with most of the European brands exudes primo quality. A couple of the boys wear knee braces and these made quick work of trashing the shroud stickers, but this is the only fault I could find.
Its a great bike and something that a beginner could cope with, but also a machine capable of winning pro level enduros. To me that makes it a great long term bike of choice. Something you can grow and develop with. Or as I said at the outset, Versatile.
Time: 4min 24sec.
Glen
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Its amazing how far these bikes have advanced in three years. My current bike is an 06 TM450, and even though I love it, the 2009 model is much better. The biggest difference I noticed was how well it steered, and that was in stock suspension trim. As with the two strokes, its a great all round package, and just seems to work really well. Its slim, its light, it performs, and it stops (and starts) with one finger. You cant ask for much more than that. |
The 450 is a very usable bike. Very few would be disappointed with this bike in the shed. If only i had enough money.
Dave
For a 450 four stroke the TM had a light feeling, with an awesome broad spread of power right through its range. The torque and power of a 450cc motor make it very forgiving in the trails, in comparison to my 250CC two stroke Yamaha.
The 450 handles the rough stuff with ease. It provides a good trail feel, soaking up all the bumps, and is right at home in the single trail. For a 450 it didn't sap my energy at all, which in my book says its a great all rounder. Even though I was slower around the Special Test track on this bike, I felt smooth, and to be honest was expecting a better time than on the two strokes. With that said, I still believe that ultimately on this bike my riding would improve the most. |
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Lap time - 4min 31sec.
Todd
As a former TM dealer, and currently racing a TM on dirt track, I am biased. The Italian bike just really suits my style, and I find the quality of the bikes are awesome.
The 450 is an awesome bike. The suspension is improved even from the 08 model. It felt very smooth and forgiving no matter what you hit. Some bikes are great when pushed hard, and others are best at trailriding pace. The TM handles both with ease.
The bikes ergonomics provide a very light slim feeling, and the brakes are great, providing consistent and strong stopping ability.
If you like four strokes you will love this bike. Without any pre-test at all, I rode a 3 min 57 sec on the special test. That is impressive. The only weak point I found on this bike was the rider. At no time did I feel limited by the bike.
Time: 3min 57sec
TM EN530 FES
| Model: | EN530 FES |  |
| Capacity : | 528cc | |
| Weight : | 113kg (no fuel, ready to race) | |
| Ground Clearance: | 340mm | |
| Transmission: | 5 speed | |
| Fuel Capacity: | 9L | |
| Final Drive Gearing: | 13:51 | |
| Starter : | Electric & Kick |
Todd's Blurb on the Big 530.
When my mate Andrew Baxter lent me his brand new bike (30km) to take to the test I was under strict instruction. Only Garry and I were to ride it, and is wasn't to be broken, as it had to race the Blayney round of the NSW long track in a fortnight.
As with all brand new bikes it was still pretty tight, and the suspension was harsh, but I found in the shop this comes good with a couple of hundred km under their belt. With the addition of some rider sag and clicker setup it will be great.
For a big bike it feels small. It has a very smooth and strong engine, and it did have a little flutter down low that will be resolved with some fine tuning in the jetting department.
The difference between the 530 and the 300 two stroke is that the 530 suits someone who enjoys the feeling of getting your arms ripped out of their sockets slowly, where as the 300 will just snap them right out!
Note: Since the test I have spent considerable time on this bike, and played with it a lot. Considering its size and power it makes a great bush bike for the tighter tracks, and is simply awesome on the fire roads.
Time: 3:47
Conclusions
Garry
As per my individial bike comments, I really enjoyed the 250 two stroke, but the handling and geometry of the 450 works so well with the motor. It's a really nice tractable bike that suits near all levels of rider.
1st - EN450 FES, 2nd - EN250
Rob
The 300 is a great open trail bike, and would make an great grasstrack race bike, but for the trails we enjoy, there is really just too much raw power. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, just more fatiguing than the other two.
The 250 is the best two stroke I've ridden, but again it doesn't match the 450 four stroke in being able to maintain pace for extended periods. The 450 is just a joy to ride, and with a bit more time on the bike I am confident that I would post my best times. It is an awesome bike for virtually all conditions.
1st - EN450 FES, 2nd - EN250
Shane
I absolutely loved the EN 250 two stroke, and was fastest in the special test on this bike. It is the best two stroke that I've ever ridden. A big statement I know, but it is that good, and therefore probably a bit suprising that my top pick as a bike of choice is the EN450 FES. To me what is comes down to is ease of riding. The 250 has the performance, the handling, and the feather weight, but as a two stroke is just that bit more intense for a full day ride. I think at the end of the day I would be quicker short term on the 250, but would maintain a faster everage speed over a ride on the 450. I think!
1st - EN450 FES, 2nd EN250
Glen
These bikes all deliver power to the ground so adeptly that choosing one bike isn't easy. TM has an awesome range. The 450 has improved so much over the last couple of years and is a great bike, and the 300 is certainly an extremely capable machine. We largely ride tight single trail, and technical bush riding, and for that application the 250 two stroke is unbeatable. Its a great bike that offers so much to all levels of riders. It awesome and my favourite bike for sure.
1st - EN250 , 2nd - EN450 FES
Dave
I loved all three bikes. The 250 was a very comfortable, and controllable bike to ride, and I would class this as the best 250 two stroke I have ridden. The 450 would develop my riding to a higher level than either of the two strokes, but the 300 is my choice.
The 300 is such an exciting bike to ride, and keeps the adrenaline flow on overload. It's light weight, and agility allow excellent turning and hanling. The torque from this thing is unreal from a two stroke. It feels like it would lug up anything.
1st - EN300, 2nd - EN450 FES
Todd
I make no secret of how much I enjoy riding the TM's, and the 2009 range only reinforces this view. They are well balanced bikes that perform so well that they encourage confident riding. I really liked the two stroke 250, but ultimately I cant go past the efficiency of riding the four strokes. The 450 is quite simply the most universal bike. Beginners and pro's alike will find their style on this bike. For someone wanting a less agressive mount, the 530 will allow a lazier riding style, particularly in the more open area's.
1st - EN450 FES, 2nd - EN530 FES
So there you go - results as follows .........
| Results | 1st | 2nd | 3rd |
| Model | EN450 FES | EN250 | EN300 |
The TM Racing enduro range for 2009 has bucket loads of appeal. Clearly it would only be the fussiest of buyers that couldn't find a bike to fit their style, size, and abilty. Our recommendations are just that, recommendations. Clearly, the general consensus is that the EN450 FES, is the most versatile of the three TM's tested, though this largely depends on its intended use, and user!
Also of the utmost importance is setup, to suit the specific rider. I have always been aware, but somewhat blase with bike setup, but the change was amazing once the jetting and suspension was dialled in. That comes down to spending some time of your own if you have the know-how, or getting a suspension shop to do it if you aren't really a DIY king.
Align your own riding level with one of the test riders, and you will draw the best value from this review. If you are an average trailrider, probably look to Dave and my comments to see if you relate. If you are an Expert class rider, please dont look to Dave or myself, but to Garry. The others are somewhere in between.
TM's are no longer the unbridled brumby stallions of old, but can now be known aa a riders bike - any rider.
Lastly, a huge thankyou for our "host" dealership from Lithgow Torque Motorcycles. Grant Anthes, dealer principal, and his crew spent the day catering to the test crews hunger pangs, and generally spoiling us. Grant is a pretty quiet bloke, but quality service with a smile is his mantra.
For enquiries on the TM range contact Grant at Torque Motorcycles Lithgow, or Cross Country Action in Cessnock.
Hope to see you trackside. For any further info please contact me at shane@eatmydirt.com.au .
Report by Shane Corney
Photos by Rob Mendham
