Stark VARG MX1.2 vs MX1.0 – Data-Driven Comparison for Serious Motocross Riders

The original Stark VARG MX1.0 completely changed what riders expected from an electric motocross bike: huge torque, up to 80 hp in Alpha form and a structural magnesium battery that could handle full motos. With MX1.2, Stark Future keeps the same recipe but refines almost every component: a larger 7.2 kWh battery, lighter and stiffer frame, smarter electronics and a more efficient powertrain.

This article compares MX1.0 and MX1.2 using hard data – power, battery, range, chassis, suspension and electronics – and helps you decide which version makes more sense for your riding in Dubai and across the UAE.

1. Core Specs Side-by-Side

*Exact prices and specs can change by market. Always confirm details with your local Stark Future dealer or StarkVarg.ae in the UAE.

2. Battery & Range – 6.5 kWh vs 7.2 kWh

The biggest numerical change from MX1.0 to MX1.2 is the battery. MX1.0 runs a 6.5 kWh pack integrated into a magnesium “flying V” structure, giving enough energy for a full MX race or several hours of easier trail riding, depending on rider, track and map.

MX1.2 moves to a 7.2 kWh pack in a revised honeycomb magnesium case. On similar tracks and maps, riders generally see around 20 % more usable range. That extra margin matters if you:

• Ride long motos at race pace.
• Stack full-day practice sessions with minimal charging breaks.
• Weigh more, or ride deep, power-hungry sand tracks.

In simple terms: if MX1.0 felt “just enough” for a hard moto, MX1.2 gives you more buffer before the battery becomes the limiting factor.

▶ Real-world MX1.2 range test with the new 7.2 kWh pack on a motocross track.

3. Chassis & Handling – Frame, Flex and Weight

MX1.0 already felt light at roughly 118 kg, with a chromoly steel frame and structural battery keeping the mass low and central. MX1.2 doesn’t chase a crazy weight drop; instead Stark focused on where the weight sits and how the chassis flexes.

What actually changed?

• Frame material & design: MX1.2 uses a new high-strength steel-alloy frame that is around 0.9 kg lighter and tuned for more controlled flex around the shock area.
• Battery as a stressed member: The larger 7.2 kWh pack is still structural, helping overall stiffness while improving thermal behaviour in long motos.
• Rotating mass: Revised drivetrain components cut rotational inertia, making the bike feel easier to lean and flick mid-corner.

On track, riders generally describe MX1.2 as slightly more planted on corner entry, with better feedback in braking bumps and less deflection on square edges compared with MX1.0.

4. Suspension – Same Hardware, Smarter Settings

Both generations run KYB 48 mm closed-cartridge forks and a KYB shock with around 310 mm of travel front and rear. The main difference is in the internal valving and the factory options you can choose.

• MX1.0: Pure race-oriented setup. Very capable, but some riders found it a little harsh on square-edge bumps if spring rate and sag were not dialled in.
• MX1.2: Updated shim stacks and mid-valve tuning target more comfort and traction while keeping big-hit performance. You can order the bike with springs matched to your weight and even more enduro-friendly settings if you prefer technical tracks.

If you already work closely with a suspension tuner, both bikes are a strong base. If you want “out of the crate” performance with minimal changes, MX1.2 is the easier bike to live with.

5. Electronics & Arkenstone – Big Jump for MX1.2

MX1.0 and MX1.2 share the same core idea: a powerful high-voltage motor with fully tunable maps from beginner (around 10 hp) up to 80 hp in Alpha mode. Where MX1.2 steps ahead is the user interface and data features.

MX1.0 electronics

• Ruggedised Android phone used as the dash for power maps, regen, traction and battery status.
• Many ride modes available, but basic lap-timing options and simple data feedback.

MX1.2 electronics

• Arkenstone smartphone: Stark’s own device with a stronger clamp, brighter display, faster processor and improved connectivity.
• Lap mode & GPS: Built-in Lap mode for GPS-based lap timing and sector analysis – perfect for training and testing different maps.
• Overmoulded harness: More robust wiring with an internally routed map-switch cable for cleaner bars and better protection.
• Updated powertrain control: Efficiency tweaks mean the same power map draws less energy and generates less heat, especially during long, fast motos.

If you care about data, lap times and easy map management, MX1.2 is a clear step forward.

▶ Official MX1.2 overview – great visual summary of the new frame, battery, electronics and track performance.

6. Which One Should You Choose?

Choose VARG MX1.2 if:

• You want maximum range and consistency for long motos or hot UAE climates.
• You value modern electronics – GPS lap timing, improved Arkenstone phone and cleaner wiring.
• You’re buying your first Stark and want the most refined version available.
• You are racing or training seriously and want the best base platform before further suspension or chassis upgrades.

MX1.0 still makes sense if:

• You find a clean used MX1.0 at a good price and are happy with slightly shorter range.
• You plan to tune suspension and chassis yourself, and don’t need the very latest electronics.
• You mostly ride shorter motos or practice days where charging between sessions is easy.

On paper, MX1.2 looks like an evolution rather than a total revolution. But on track, the extra battery capacity, smoother chassis feel and smarter electronics combine to make it the better all-round race bike for most riders.

If you are in Dubai or anywhere in the UAE and want to feel the difference for yourself, contact StarkVarg.ae to check Stark VARG MX1.2 availability and book a test ride.