2012 TM enduro range: Quick spin

Graced with specs that outshine most other enduro bikes, the ethos of TM Racing is to produce the best standard racing package possible. They are fitted with Excel rims, TM racing hubs, 270mm Oversize braking discs, Brembo calipers, Nissin master cylinders, 50mm Marzocchi forks and optional rear shocks in the form of Sachs, Ohlins or the new TM Racing unit.

The biggest new development from TM comes in the availability of an all-new racing shock, completely built in-house and developed over the last 18 months in conjunction with its factory riders, including world MX1 star Tanel Leok. On top of this, the 2012 models have received a few styling updates, most notably a new headlight design.

The only model that has seen a major revision for 2012 is the highly regarded 125 two-stroke. The engine has received a complete update, with an all new electronic power-valve design as well as a new piston, carburetor settings and a number of redesigned gear selector parts. The 250Fi also received a number of internal updates, including a revised conrod and piston, altered cam timing and slightly different ECU programming.

All the bikes feature pretty much the same spec, with a different setup to suit each model accordingly. This was my first ever ride on the TM range, so I was more than intrigued to try out the enigmatic blue beasts. Over the years they have gained a reputation for being power monsters, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. They are super smooth and easy to ride, and there isn’t an ugly bike in the fleet.

The 450 stands as the most surprising bike of all; the engine is incredibly smooth and gentle, but it makes good power still and works best when it’s revved. It’s a bike that would suit everyone from clubman material to elite.

The ‘strokers’ are all great bikes, too. The 125 is sensitive to jetting, but when the settings are just right it’s a great little bike. The 250 and 300 are incredibly smooth and easy bikes to ride. They have a very similar feel to the power of the KTM two-strokes – not such a bad thing.

The pick of the bunch for me is the 250Fi; I love small bore four-strokes and this is as good as anything else on the market. It isn’t quite as strong as the KTM, it doesn’t turn quite as quickly as the Husky, but it’s a very well balanced bike and does everything easily.

Overall, the setup is very good. The brakes are truly fantastic: it’s amazing what difference an oversize disc makes. I really like the handling traits too; they are very Honda-esque. The suspension is definitely on the stiffer end of the spectrum, however the TM engineers made the point that suspension needs at least 15 hours to properly bed in.

I am very impressed by the whole range of bikes, and they far exceeded the expectations I had for the marque. They are as good as anything on the market and they look pretty damn fine too!

TM is imported into Australia by Cross Country Action.