Race spec, direct-to-consumer: New Stark Factory Editions for the Varg MX and EX put pro-level kit in the hands of a lucky few.
Ever wonder what the difference is between a boring ol’ 80 horsepower Stark Varg and one of Stark’s factory race bikes from events like Erzbergrodeo or World Supercross? Well, if your money’s green enough (and you’re one of the 500 lucky folks who get their foot in the door first), you won’t have to wonder anymore: this month Stark rolled out their new “Factory Edition” models, and they’re quite literally built to the exact same spec the team’s pro riders enjoy.
So what makes the Stark Factory Editions stand out? Well, the single most significant upgrade is the addition of a KYB Factory “A” kit suspension upgrade, which is no small improvement.
The standard 48mm KYB fork is replaced by an AOS (Air-Oil-Separate) unit, which gets hard-anodized internals and DLC-coated inner tubes to minimize friction. That fork also gets upgraded mid-speed valving for maximum range of adjustment, as well as a custom spring collar for better front-wheel control and comfort on big landings.
Out back, the fully-adjustable KYB shock gets a similar treatment with a Kashima-coated body and DLC-coated piston rod. Stark also adds an X-Trig pre-load adjuster to the shock, which makes setting your sag ridiculously easy. Total suspension travel remains identical to the standard models on both the Varg MX and Varg EX Factory Editions.
“The VARG already has the performance. With the Factory Editions, the focus was to give riders more grip, more precision, and more confidence to unlock more of that performance. These are built exactly how I would build my own.”
Sébastien Tortelli, Racing Director at Stark Future
In addition to the top-notch suspension goodies, Stark also throws a few trick hard parts into the kit. CNC-machined split triple clamps, 3D-printed titanium footpegs, and a titanium bolt kit make up the weight savings package, which Stark claims shaves over two pounds off the stock hardware. A grippier seat and an improved radiator fan mount also come as standard on all Factory Editions.
Stark Factory Editions are further distinguished by a unique graphics kit with integrated number plates on the side panels, as well as individually numbered, laser-engraved triple clamps. Speaking of which, those numbers will be limited to 500 total units according to Stark, who will produce 200 Factory Editions of the MX and 300 of the EX model.
As you might suspect, these fully kitted-out Vargs won’t come cheap: Factory Edition MX models are set to retail for $15,990 in the US, while EX editions command $16,990, roughly a $2,000 increase over a standard Varg Alpha.
That’s a tidy sum, but considering that a KYB A-kit for any dirt bike will set you back about $7,000 alone, you could also argue that it’s an absolutely jaw-dropping deal for riders at the top level of their sport. Between the titanium bits, triple clamps, and X-Trig device, you’re looking at over $8,200 worth of parts, so if you want to experience the true “factory works” treatment, this is quite possibly the most accessible it’s ever been.
These new Stark Factory Editions appear to be going fast, with the MX version already showing sold out on the company’s website. For more details (or to secure one yourself), you can get the full rundown here.
