Motorcycle specifications KTM350 SX-F 2013 The demand for performance

for the past 2 years, the KTM 350 SX-F has been proving that race results aren't decided by displacement. This unique bike offers the power and performance of a 450, combined with the handling of a 250. The series winner enters 2013 with a new engine, improved chassis and new fairing.

a reworked engine

the advantage of the KTM 350 SX-F has always been its weight. And even its engine is now lighter. The new die-cast crankcase has saved a further 500g on the scales. The ultra-short-stroke DOHC, equipped with the latest generation EFI, boasts an even wider rev range and a highly efficient ride. As with all KTM four-stroke engines, it is started by electronic ignition.

cylinder head

the changes made to the DOHC 350 cm3 engine are simple to summarize: more power for less weight. Optimized flow channels ensure better gas flow and therefore better cylinder filling. Reinforced valve cups and supports, plus high-strength valve springs, enable titanium valves to boost engine speed from 13,000 rpm to 13,400 rpm. In other words: even more power for the new 2013 KTM 350 SX-F.

bodywork

factory or production? There's no difference in terms of bodywork. As on last season's factory KTMs, the new 2013 KTM 350 SX-F features a revolutionary sliding bearing at the bottom of the connecting rod eye. This design, a stiffer connecting rod, and a lighter piston are the essential conditions for increasing the maximum revs to 13,400 rpm and the impressive peak performance of the 350 cm3 engine. But it's not all about pure power. A major advantage is the extended maintenance intervals for the connecting rod, saving both effort and costs.

frame

a state-of-the-art frame design in lightweight, high-strength chromium-molybdenum profiled tubing ensures the perfect blend of longitudinal and torsional rigidity. This not only ensures good handling and precise steering, but also excellent riding stability. The four-stroke frames on the 2013 models feature a stiffer frame triangle and thinner-walled tubes. This improves stability (increased torsional strength) while reducing weight. Optimization also focused on the engine-head mountings and their connection to the frame. The frames of the 2013 KTM 350 SX-F have a new color and remain a benchmark in terms of weight and stability.

telescopic fork

the 48 mm inverted fork with closed cartridge has been further enhancedoptimized tuning and a new oil specification for perfect harmonization with new frames and engines. The new oil is much more resistant to wear, and guarantees more consistent damping over both the stroke and life cycle. The new lower fork crown is 80 g lighter, and like the upper fork crown, has been CNC-milled from high-quality aluminum to significantly improve the fork's damping and response characteristics.

swingarm

the cast aluminum swingarm was designed using state-of-the-art calculation and simulation software; the design and wall thickness ensure minimum weight for optimum strength and sufficient flex. For the KTM 350 SX-F 2013, the engineers have modified the design of the rear swingarm with a view to fitting a stronger rear wheel axle (25 mm instead of 20 mm) for improved handling. It was also possible to reduce weight by over 100g by modifying the steering pins, cups and nuts.

wheels

lightweight CNC-machined hubs, top-of-the-range EXCEL rims and new black-coated spokes with lightweight aluminum nipples ensure minimum weight and maximum stability. Pirelli Scorpion tires (MX Mid Soft 32) are synonymous with griptraction and guaranteed performance. The 2013 KTM 350 SX-F features a 20 mm to 25 mm reinforced rear axle for added stability.

brakes

brembo brakes are standard on KTM motocross bikes, with lightweight Wave disc brakes for optimum performance in terms of dosability and braking. On the rear wheel, the caliper bracket has been adapted to the larger axle diameter of the 2013 model.

News credit: KTM France
Photo credits: KTMimages