KTM SX vs Husqvarna TC vs GASGAS MC: the 2026 comparison

Torn between a KTM SX, a Husqvarna TC and a GASGAS MC? Good news: they're technically the same bike. Bad news: there are still nuances that can tip your decision.

01Why the three are almost identical

The Austrian Pierer Mobility group has owned KTM, Husqvarna and GASGAS since 2019. All three brands share:

• The same engine, same frame, same gearbox.
• The same WP suspension (XACT for motocross, XACT Pro for competition).
• The same electronics (TPI on the 2-stroke enduro bikes).
• The same factory (Mattighofen, Austria).

What genuinely changes: looks, plastics, factory settings, price.

02The real differences

Looks and identity

• KTM: aggressive orange, angular plastics, squared-off front number plate. The "READY TO RACE" branding is everywhere.
• Husqvarna: white/blue/yellow, rounder plastics, a more "premium northern European" look.
• GASGAS: red-dominant, solid plastics, a more playful, rebellious identity.

Want to stand out in the paddock? GASGAS. Want the benchmark factory look? KTM.

Factory suspension

Officially identical (WP XACT 48 mm motocross, WP XPLOR 48 mm enduro). In practice:

• KTM comes set up slightly firmer.
• Husqvarna slightly plusher (ideal for sand and loam).
• GASGAS sits in the middle.

The gaps run from 1 click to 3 clicks — nothing you can't dial in yourself.

Price

At equivalent spec:

• GASGAS: usually the cheapest (roughly €200-500 under KTM).
• KTM: the reference price.
• Husqvarna: €200-400 above KTM (premium positioning).

On a new 450 cc for 2026, indicative French prices:

• GASGAS MC 450F: ~€10,800
• KTM 450 SX-F: ~€11,200
• Husqvarna FC 450: ~€11,500

Dealer network and servicing

• KTM: the densest network in France.
• Husqvarna: good coverage, sometimes an hour further away.
• GASGAS: newer network, some regions still uncovered (check before you buy).

Depreciation on the used market

• KTM: holds value best (benchmark brand).
• Husqvarna: moderate depreciation.
• GASGAS: steeper depreciation, since the brand is less established.

If you plan to sell within 2 years, KTM works out best. If you're keeping it 5+ years, it doesn't matter.

03Recommendations by rider profile

• First bike or beginner rider: GASGAS. Cheaper to buy, less painful if you decide the sport isn't for you.
• Committed rider, regional competition: KTM. Better parts and accessory network.
• Rider with an eye for design and a comfortable budget: Husqvarna. Unique look, higher perceived quality.

04The real question: new or used?

A 2-year-old KTM SX 450 with 80 hours goes for €7,000-8,000. That's €3,000-4,000 saved on a bike that's used up 20-30% of its life.

If you buy used, always ask for a service logbook or the real engine hours (from a reliable hour meter). Without that, you're taking a huge risk.

05Track your hours from day one

New or used, fit an hour meter from day 1. You'll know how many hours you actually ride, when to service, and you'll have a verifiable logbook the day you sell.