The DEC Vari-ND has an optical design. It uses industry-standard lens and coating technologies. The high transparency of the crystal lens assembly can reach up to 98%. The adapter produces neutral colours with no shifting that traditional ND filters cause. There is also no polarisation, which can sometimes create the “X” pattern on your footage.
The DEC Vari-ND is mainly made with copper and aircraft-grade aluminium. The inside is crafted with velvet for optimum stability. The transparent lens cartridge comes with its own ABS case, and the entire package comes with an additional impact-proof hardshell case.
Renowned as the strongest engine in MX2 competition, the 2019 version pushes the boundaries of innovation even further. With updates on valve timing, exhaust, airbox and EMS, the entire power pack produces even more torque and power across the entire 14,000 rpm range. Its compact structure contributes to excellent mass centralization, which supports the easy ride-ability of the bike. The low weight of only 25.9 kg, in combination with the compact engine layout and unrivalled power, once again makes the new KTM 250 SX-F a real force to be reckoned with, yet still easy to ride for both amateur and professional riders.
An integral part of the class-leading power delivery is the cutting-edge DOHC (double overhead camshaft) cylinder head. It features two overhead camshafts which activate the titanium valves (intake 32.5 mm, exhaust 26.5 mm) via the super-light, DLC coated finger followers. For 2019, the exhaust camshaft features a new timing that has further refined power delivery.
The 250 SX-F's has a rigid crankshaft which features a connecting rod with a plain big end bearing featuring two force-fitted bearing shells run directly on the crank pin. This design is a major prerequisite for the extremely high engine speed levels and the unrivalled maximum power of the 250cc engine. Not only that, it enhances the engine's durability, allowing long crankshaft service intervals, which is a huge customer benefit in relation to time, effort and cost.
The KTM 250 SX-F is now fitted with a new, more robust 5-speed transmission. The gear ratios were carried over from the predecessor, but all the gears feature improvements and reinforcements. Another highlight of the transmission is the no dirt gear shifter. Similar to the foot peg design, it prevents the build-up of dirt and ensures the next gear is always available, no matter what the conditions.
The state-of-the-art Keihin Engine Management System, with electronic fuel injection, features a new 44 mm throttle body. The injector position is unique and guarantees optimal atomization of the fuel and air on the way to the combustion chamber, resulting in instant response and maximum performance when opening the throttle. There are also separate systems for cold starting and idle adjustment, while an improved seal of the MAP sensor (MAP = Manifold-Absolute-Pressure) makes the system even more reliable. A reworked throttle cable mount allows for easy access and smoother routing of the cables. Additionally, for 2019, the ECU features new maps which have been adapted to the new exhaust and cylinder head, regulating traction and launch control. It also provides different maps for each gear, according to the information received from the gear sensor, ensuring maximum power as you shift through the gears.
In order to balance the mass-forces the 250 SX-F produces, the engine is fitted with a multifunctional counter balance shaft. It effectively reduces vibration and drives the water pump and timing chain.
The 78 mm bore cylinder houses a lightweight, forged, bridged, box-type piston, made to the highest standards by CP. It has an extremely rigid structure and features a unique crown shape to suit the high-compression combustion chamber. The compression ratio is at 14.4:1 and thanks to the combination of low oscillating masses, the engine displays extremely lively characteristics.
Time is crucial in the heat of the race and an electric starter gets you fired up and back in the battle as soon as possible. The electric starter is standard on the KTM 250 SX-F and features a strong starter motor made by Mitsuba. The proven starter drive guarantees efficient and reliable starting when you need it most.
Within easy reach of the left grip on all four-stroke models, is a multi-functional handlebar map switch, which features the innovative control functions, traction control, launch control and alternative power curves (standard <-> advanced). The TRACTION CONTROL is a unique feature which has a new setting for 2019. It guarantees more efficient traction and better control when accelerating the bike, especially in challenging track conditions. It can be activated on the handlebar map switch while riding. With a simple push of the two buttons at idle speed, the rider can also activate LAUNCH CONTROL, ensuring the most effective launch out of the gate. Thanks to a reworked set-up, the Launch Control now benefits from directly from the Traction Control, reducing wheel spin for maximum possible traction. The map switch also gives the rider the chance to select an alternative power map, besides the standard configuration, providing him with options during the race.
Maintaining the optimal engine temperature is crucial to ensuring consistent horsepower throughout the ride. The KTM 250 SX-F features newly designed radiators which are mounted 12 mm lower than the predecessors. This lowers the center of gravity and matches the design of the new shrouds perfectly, in order to achieve perfect ergonomics. By using CFD technology (computational fluid dynamics) together with a clever coolant circuit routing, the innovative system ensures the optimum engine temperature for the highest performance, no matter what the conditions. The radiators also feature special protectors that don't only serve as protection from flying rocks and debris but also as a brace that disperses energy around the radiators in the event of an impact.
When it comes to improved power delivery and performance, the new exhaust on all 4-stroke models play a key role and packs a punch that is hard to beat. It features a new, model specific header pipe with a further advanced resonator called FDH (Flow Design Header), which is a small chamber around the pipe. The silencer has a new profile aluminium sleeve and a new end cap, as well as a reworked internal design. The new shape allows the exhaust to be disassembled without removing the shock absorber and also provides better access to the shock. Another benefit of the new shape is slimmer ergonomics, making the bike feel narrower, without compromise to regulatory noise limits.
Every rider knows that when the feeling on the bike is good, the ride is awesome. The chassis forms an integral part of this "feeling" and has been designed to provide accurate feedback between track and rider, while also reducing the harshness of typical motocross terrain. The KTM 250 SX-F features a new lightweight, high-tech steel frame that not only provides a great feeling, but has been optimized for more accurate rider feedback. The new flex characteristics provide excellent agility and high-speed stability, contributing to an intuitive ride like no other.
The new frame on the KTM 250 SX-F has to cater for the dynamic riding styles associated with MX2 racing. For this reason, along with the rest of the SX range, it is professionally crafted from hydro formed Chromium Molybdenum steel tubes that are robot welded, ensuring the highest levels of consistent quality. Improved stiffness equals more responsive handling, while the frame works in even better with the WP suspension, to ensure excellent agility and high-speed stability. The frame features "no-dirt" footpegs with a simple but effective self-cleaning system that let the footpegs return to their original position every time, for complete control in all conditions. On all the 4-stroke frames, there are three new mounts that allow an optional composite skid plate from the KTM PowerParts program to be fitted. All 2019 SX frames feature a highly durable powder coating, just like the KTM Factory machines, and come with standard frame protectors. The 40 mm longer new subframe is made from lightweight aluminium, for improved movement across the seat and heightened rear fender stability.
The KTM 250 SX-F's new one-piece swingarm, is manufactured with a gravity die-cast production process, for exceptional strength at the lowest possible weight. It also has a 5 mm longer axle slot, allowing the wheel to be adjusted further back, for even greater stability on choppy tracks. The swingarm's chain measurement markings are visible from above, making adjustment simpler and more accurate.
All models in the SX range are fitted with newly designed lightweight polyethylene fuel tanks. The fuel capacity on the full-size SX models is still 7 liters, but the new shape improves the ergonomics. The filler cap has an inside thread that makes for easy and reliable closure. For the 4-stroke models the fuel pump assembly features optimized internal routing of the hoses for improved reliability.
The new airbox on the KTM 250 SX-F has been completely reworked to ensure better flow dynamics, and together with new intake snorkels, leads to optimal power and throttle response. Despite the obvious performance enhancements, the new design also offers maximum protection against soiling of the air filter. The large Twin-Air air filter is mounted on a cleverly designed stiff cage that minimizes incorrect installation. As found on previous models, filter maintenance is quick and easy and does not require tools - a standard, original feature from KTM.
It is important for a rider to work in harmony with the motorcycle, maintaining momentum by moving together with the natural forces. KTM has focused extensively on ergonomics that are optimal for high-level performance, ensuring a neutral riding position that offers the best maneuverability and control. The handlebar position can also be adjusted to suit every rider size and ergonomic preference. A rider's main interaction with the motorcycle comes through the bodywork, seat, footpegs and handlebars, which all play a vital role in overall control. When it comes to ergonomics, absolutely no compromises were made and only the best quality products feature on the 2019 SX models.
All full-size SX models are equipped with the same high-strength aluminum tapered handlebar, made by NEKEN. The handlebar is fixed in rubber damped mountings, which allow for two different positions. The handlebars come standard with an ODI vulcanized grip on the right side and a comfortable ODI lock-on grip, which does not require any wire or glue, on the left. They also feature a reworked bar-pad with a newly designed cover that can be attached and removed a lot quicker and easier. With these handlebars, the control needed to win races, lies comfortably in the rider's hands.
Sophisticated 'No Dirt' footpegs prevent clogging of the footpeg pivot, even when digging in deep ruts. Looking for a higher riding position? Then just mount the footpegs of the MY2018 EXC models, which are 6mm higher than the SX versions
KTM's 4-stroke motocross bikes are the industry benchmark when it comes to innovative technology and styling. With input from KTM's factory riders, as well as KTM R&D and Kiska Design, the new bodywork of the KTM 250 SX-F pushes the boundaries of progression even further. The result is a shape that achieves complete harmony between rider and bike and features across the entire SX range. The main goal was to provide the optimal contact points that allow a rider maximum freedom of movement and improved handling. The front and rear fenders feature an intelligent I-beam design, guaranteeing maximum stability with the lowest possible weight. The new graphics add to the fast and aggressive style of the bike and also confirms KTM's never-ending quest for race-winning progression.
4-strokes have defined the modern era of motocross and KTM have used the SX-F range to push the boundaries of innovation. To stay ahead in the competitive MX2 class, KTM equipped the 250 SX-F with a multifunctional handlebar map switch. The unit activates innovative features like traction control, launch control and even alternative power curves. KTM's engineers have pushed performance to the extreme, making electronics a necessary progression that ensures power is delivered in the most effective way. KTM SX-F models also feature other unique advantages, like the proven electric starter. Now, more than ever, READY TO RACE performance is just the push of a button away.
The preview peeked my interest and I found the audible book on line and downloaded it to my IPhone. As I have said before so many books and so little time to get them all read or listened to. Our truck driving jobs allow us to listen to an inordinate number of books and I still have a hard time keeping up with all of the books I want to read or listen to. I always have a book on my phone and one on my kindle, life would not be good without books.
While I have not seen the movie, the book was very good and thought provoking. The book is about an older couple, one has Alzheimer’s, and the other has advanced cancer, deciding to take a trip in their Leisure Seeker along route 66 to California. John, who has Alzheimer’s could still drive fine and Ella, who has cancer directs the trip and keeps them heading towards the goal of Disneyland.
Throughout the book John comes in and out of lucidity with funny and touching results. The character of John can at times be very funny and at other times about bring you to tears as he is so lost. Ella deals with him mentally coming and going with patience at times and at other times with anger. John can quickly go from being obstinate to immediately asking if they are home.
They travel along route 66 staying at campgrounds and visiting small cafes as John likes hamburgers. John has no idea that Ella has cancer and does not realize that Ella is as sick as she is. At one point in the book Ella falls and as John goes to help her up John falls on top of her. Now they are both on the ground and neither one of them can get back up to their feet. It is pretty funny how Ella finally solves this problem. It is scary to think that we are getting closer to the age where falling can break a bone or we might not have the strength to pull ourselves up.
When stopped for the evening they often get out their slides and watch them on the side of their Leisure Seeker, often drawing a crowd. The slides were of the many trips they took with their children as they grew up in the Leisure Seeker. The slides reminded me of the many pictures and albums I have of our girls growing up and our many trips.
Some of the arguments reminded me of Bob and I deciding which direction to go or when to stop. At times John and Ella would be having a heated argument, Ella would be very mad at John, and John would totally forget they were having an argument and ask a totally different question. John would not have a clue why Ella was mad at him. Dealing with a spouse with this disease must require a lot of patience and I can only imagine the excitement when the person you married makes an appearance.
I listened as I was driving and recognized many of the names of the places they drove through on Route 66 and could relate to the condition of the pavement as well as the scenery. Their story of the trip reminds me to enjoy each day as it comes as we do not know our final date.
If you've ever traveled I-64 near Afton Mountain in Virginia, you know that is a beautiful drive that leaves the Shenandoah Valley and crosses the Blue Ridge Mountains down to the flat land surrounding Richmond. Maybe you've noticed the Virginia Department of Transportation's (VDOT) Worker's Memorial that sits on the side of the mountain. The picture to the right is from the memorial and is used with permission from VDOT's site that can be found here.
That memorial has the names of 132 VDOT employees that have been killed during the performance of their duties building and repairing Virginia's roads. Sadly that number is drop in the bucket when you add the vast number of employees from state contracted construction companies to the mix that have been killed in the line of duty.
Avoid activities when driving such as using cell phones, changing radio stations, eating or engaging in any activity that takes your eyes off the roadway.
One of my proudest moments was to win the Equine Blog Awards in 2016 & be awarded Equestrian Blogger of the Year.
My blog is a hobby but whether you have your own business from blogging, enjoy it as a hobby, or use the micro blogging environment of social media without a website, many equestrians use blogging in some form to report their experiences, look for recommendation and share their successes.
Over the last 12-18 months, I've had a number of people asking me about why I blog & what I've learnt doing it along the way. I also often get asked how easy it is to get started so this post is aimed at any budding bloggers out there... & my advice, JUST GIVE IT A GO!
Very simply, I still use it as a way to looking back at progress of our training and competitions, as well as using it as a way to reflect on our less than average performances!! People viewing my blog are able to see that your training curve is less than perfect - there are peaks & troughs along the way - & I hope that when someone is having a bad day, they can see others have them too.
I started blogging back in 2013. I had recently returned to the saddle after a 17 year break and found writing everything down gave a fantastic timeline of our journey together - Gemma Hague (Going Dutch Dressage)
A passion for writing can be a key motivator when considering starting a blog with many bloggers fuelling their childhood enjoyments. Andrea Parker explained that her favourite subject at school was English and she really seized the chance to express herself in a creative way!
At the end of the day I write because I love it and I find it very cathartic, especially at the end of a competition day - Reena Ellis (Journey of an Amateur Eventer)
Today, I have broadened the topics that my blog covers, and frequently include posts about the everyday products that I use on the yard, as well as covering any equestrian events that we go to on foot.
Blogging doesn't need to be about making money, getting free products or have a resulting sponsorship for you to be successful. Personally, I enjoying speaking to brands, services, events and campaigners about what's top of their list to gain a better understanding of what's taking place across the equestrian world, building up relationships along the way.
You don't even need a website - Victoria Brant uses her Diary of a Whimpy Eventer Facebook page to update her fans & followers with all her news, using longer format posts, photos, videos & injecting a big sense of personality!!
Your starting point just needs to be to pick one particular area, as Roosa, from Roosa's Horsey Life, agrees:
Choose the topic that is right for you - Riding? Equestrian style? Product reviews? Then pick a name that suits you and your blog
This is one way to do it, but if you want a website too, Blogger.com or Wordpress.com both offer solutions using a subdomain option (e.g. http://teamtunnaheventing.blogspot.com). However, for a more professional feel, you can upgrade either to a self hosted option to give you your full domain (e.g. www.teamtunnaheventing.co.uk).
Sounds complicated? It really isn't, I upgraded in 2-3 easy steps, at a cost of about £20 a year. In fact, Ruby fell into blogging completely accidentally as part of a project for a university course & soon found herself compiling several posts every week!
Both Blogger & Wordpress offer easy-to-use interfaces so it is very straightforward to add your photos and videos, as well as typing reporting. Plus there is an abundance of templates available, so there's no need for your blog to look like everyone else's!
Along the way, Google also becomes your best friend - ask it any question about your blog, and you'll learn as you go along! Plus, there's now an Equestrian Bloggers community group on Facebook with lots of us there to help!
Pretty much everything - from learning new tips and tricks to looking back & doing our monthly round-ups to set our goals for the next month.
Gemma Hague finds writing her content very therapeutic by getting everything that she has done, and has planed to do, written down (even if not all of it makes it to the live site!).
There is a very strong and tight equestrian blogging community from across the world, most of who are happy to support other like minded bloggers. This is something that Roosa Rantanen loves about being a blogger, making many new friends from all over the world since beginning to blog. Roosa is from Finland & as I am based in the UK, this enjoyment is certainly ringing true for the two of us!!
Meeting people is definitely a motivator behind many equestrian bloggers, as Reena Ellis mentioned that she now has a few very good friends that she has solely met through her blogger activity.
Blogging keeps me busy and I like feeling like what I am doing matters. EquiPepper blog is dedicated to ex racehorses and changing the negative stigma around them. If I can change one persons opinion on them or improve how someone looks after and manages their horse, then it has been a success - Ruby Peppers (Equipepper)
Coming from a small town, Andrea Parker (The Sand Arena Ballerina) took a lot of support from the online community as well as being able to feel like she could really share those exciting time with others who would get excited with her!
Living in a small town where passionate riders (you know the ones who live and breathe horses) are few and far between, it's easy to feel alone, or at the very least not understood. My work hours also mean that I often come out much later than other riders, thereby missing those opportunities to connect. After an awesome ride I'll come home bursting with excitement only to give my ever patient partner a blow by blow of the ride. And while he is exceptionally supportive and try's his best to understand he doesn't fully 'get it'
I've learnt a lot along the way, but one thing that stands out is keeping up with current trends & the ability to test things that I can then take through into my day to day profession. I've learnt a number of different ways & new techniques that social media have evolved and enabled me to get my blog more noticed, pushing new people to it.
Orla from the No Bucking Way blog (I just LOVE that name - quite jealous I don't have it myself!) has had to learn to put herself out there & not worry about how she thought her blog would be perceived
The support we have received from friends, family and the equine blogging community has been great so far which has made us really excited about the future of the blog!
Top tip: you have connect with other bloggers and become engaged with the community. This applies not only to share your latest posts, but is needed to share ideas, hints and reach out to others for support. I was pleased to hear that Roosa also agreed with me!
Gemma summed this up nicely, identifying that her blog was slow, clunky and limited, and just overall needed a refresh! In the process, Gemma quickly learnt the importance to also understanding your blog
I love that I can analyse my visitors - from which country they are in, to what time people visit. I can also track my SEO results, which all very important for making and keeping your blog successful.
I recently wrote a post as part of my Blogger's Corner section, highlighting how easy and quick it is to get Google Analytics and Search Console set up to support you understand your site's visitors and where you can make improvements to your blog.
Throughout this post we asked the same four questions to a few equestrian bloggers across the community, and have brought forward their response. It was quite refreshing that although we all have very similar responses, there is uniqueness to us all within our blogging experiences.
Be sure to give their blogs a regular read - they all offer a unique story to their own equestrian activities!