Choose the VARG MX 1.2 for motocross, the EX for enduro with a road-homologated platform, and the SM for road-focused supermoto riding. The shared 60HP/80HP choices and 7.2 kWh battery capacity do not make them the same motorcycle.
This comparison uses Stark’s published specifications and MotoEbikes prices checked on 12 October 2026. It explains their practical implications; it is not a back-to-back riding test. The MX figures here apply to MX 1.2, not automatically to an earlier VARG MX.
The main differences
| Detail | MX 1.2 | EX | SM |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary use | Motocross | Enduro | Supermoto |
| Road positioning | Off-road motocross model | Road-homologated enduro | Road-homologated supermoto |
| Published weight | 118 kg | 120 kg | 124.5 kg |
| Battery capacity | 7.2 kWh | 7.2 kWh | 7.2 kWh |
| Maximum power options | 60 / 80 hp | 60 / 80 hp | 60 / 80 hp |
| Wheels | 21-inch front; check 18/19-inch rear configuration | 21-inch front / 18-inch rear | 17-inch front / rear |
| Front suspension travel | 310 mm | 300 mm | 290 mm |
| Front brake | 260 mm disc; two-piston caliper | 260 mm disc; two-piston caliper | 320 mm disc; four-piston radial caliper |
These weights use the manufacturer’s published figures, not a MotoEbikes weigh-in. Check tyre, wheel, brake-control and suspension choices on the actual order.
MX 1.2: when the track is the point
The MX 1.2 is the logical starting point for riders choosing a VARG for motocross. Its listed front travel, wheel options and off-road positioning distinguish it from the SM. Choose the setup for your venue, rider weight and experience rather than ordering by maximum power alone.
Check the circuit’s electric-bike rules and facilities, the relevant event or race-class requirements and how you will transport and charge the bike. Quiet operation does not itself create a right to use a venue, public path or private land.
Buying used requires a version check. Earlier MX specifications and advice may concern a different battery, chassis or software configuration. Ask for the model details and service history instead of transferring all MX 1.2 figures to an older VARG.
EX: when enduro and legal road connections matter
The EX is the enduro branch. Stark lists enduro-oriented 21/18-inch wheels and road homologation, so it is the relevant starting point for riding that combines suitable off-road terrain with public-road links.
A road-approved bike is only part of the answer. Your entitlement, insurance, registration, equipment and route must also be right. A green lane must carry motor-vehicle rights and remain open to that use; do not infer access from a map label alone.
Read the full EX buyer’s guide and EX road-legality guide before relying on a CBT or A1 route for the exact bike.
SM: when most of your riding is on tarmac
The SM’s 17-inch wheels and 320 mm front brake distinguish its road-focused package from the EX. If your plans centre on supermoto riding, start with that factory configuration and compare it with your route and ownership needs.
Do not assume converting an EX with different wheels creates the same bike or preserves every approval and insurance condition. Components, geometry, software and approval details can differ. Request written clarification for a proposed modification before committing to it.
Stark’s SM page publishes 49 miles for its highway test and 73 miles for mixed urban riding. Those are manufacturer test figures under their respective conditions, not a guaranteed UK commute. Review the linked test material and plan a reserve; the two numbers themselves show why riding conditions matter.
UK price comparison
| Model | 60HP | 80HP Alpha |
|---|---|---|
| MX 1.2 | From £10,490 | From £11,490 |
| EX | £10,900 | £11,900 |
| SM | £10,900 | £11,900 |
The lowest MX price applies to the lowest-priced listed colour variant. Compare final quotations with the same delivery, setup and road-registration assumptions. Check live pages for changes and availability.
60HP or 80HP comes after the model decision
Both output levels are substantial. Alpha adds a higher maximum performance ceiling and eligibility for the Dynamic Traction Control update; it does not turn an MX into an EX or an EX into an SM. On the checked EX prices the difference is £1,000. Our EX 60HP versus 80HP guide explains how to weigh that against setup and ownership costs.
Peak horsepower is not the figure to use alone for a licence decision. Get the exact approved category, continuous power and other relevant classification details, and check your entitlement and insurer’s requirements.
What stays on your ownership checklist?
All three current pages list a 7.2 kWh battery and a 3.3 kW charger, with a stated two-hour charge at 240 V. That shared specification does not guarantee identical range or charging time in your conditions. Confirm the actual UK electrical connection and permitted charging current.
Use our guides to charging equipment and charging time. Also compare rider fit, suspension setup, maintenance requirements and optional connected-feature subscriptions.
Where does SKÖLL fit?
SKÖLL is a limited SM edition, not a fourth riding discipline. Start with whether you want an SM, then evaluate the edition’s finish and equipment. See the SKÖLL buying guide.
Make your shortlist
Write down your main venue or route, licence entitlement, charging location, transport arrangements and riding experience. Bring that to MotoEbikes in Guildford and check demonstration availability. Return to the Stark advice hub for the next buying question.
Sources
Technical specifications and SM test claims: Stark Future’s MX 1.2, EX and SM pages. Prices: linked MotoEbikes listings. Road entitlement: GOV.UK motorcycle categories. Checked 12 October 2026.
Further reading
VARG SM buyer’s guide · MX 1.2 buyer’s guide · range · charging · insurance.
Discussion
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