Motorcycle specifications KTM350 EXC-F 2018 The best part of the tests

The road to success is paved with obstacles. The test of mud, tears and sweat is the test of great champions and their immense qualities: a compact DOHC engine with an impressive power-to-weight ratio, impeccable handling and suspension on the most demanding terrain. And when you've reached your goal after many, many adventures in an often unforgiving natural environment, you can measure the distance you've covered and let your joy explode.

eNGINE

comparable in structure and dimensions to the KTM 250 EXC-F, the new engine of the KTM 350 EXC-F delivers power and torque worthy of a 450 across the entire rev range. Thanks to its optimized architecture and shaft configuration, this block boasts excellent mass centralization and surprising flexibility, for a weight of just 28.5 kg. The addition of an electric starter is also a real boon for riders. With its exceptional power-to-weight ratio, the new KTM 350 EXC-F is well equipped to satisfy the most daring adventurers. And because it's Euro IV-approved, this orange KTM is also greener.

bLOWER

the centerpiece of the compact DOHC engine, the new avant-garde cylinder head features two overhead camshafts with DLC-coated rockers designed to minimize friction. Four ultra-light titanium valves and high-flow ports maximize flow for optimum operating range, and deliver breathtaking performance throughout the rev range up to 12,800 rpm. Two side brackets have been added to secure the engine to the frame and reduce vibration.

cYLINDER AND PISTON

the 88 mm-bore cylinder houses a proven bridge-box piston manufactured by CP. The geometry of the piston head, perfectly adapted to the new high-compression combustion chamber (12.3:1), is characterized by a rigid structure and reduced weight, guaranteeing the highest performance. Thanks to reduced oscillating masses, the engine climbs easily to maximum rpm.

cRANKSHAFT

the crankshaft of the KTM 350 EXC-F uses a shortened connecting rod. More compact and lighter, the engine also gains in responsiveness. The crankshaft features a connecting-rod bearing and two bearing shells pressed directly into the crankpin. This type of design, essential to support the very high rotation speeds of the 350 cm3 engine, increases engine longevity and lengthens the crankshaft overhaul interval.

eNGINE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

the Keihin electronic injection engine management system features a 42 mm throttle valve body. Thanks to the injector's unique position, engine response is truly instantaneous. And because idle and cold start do not use the same circuits, on-site adjustment is much easier. Once the engine is sufficiently warm, simply lower the throttle to deactivate the cold-start mode.

eLECTRIC STARTER

the KTM 350 EXC-F is now equipped with an electric starter as standard.this is a decisive advantage when it comes to reducing lap times in competition. Operated at the touch of a button, this ultra-powerful electric starter made by Mitsuba now features an O-ring seal capable of withstanding extreme temperatures.

bALANCING SHAFT

to balance mass forces, the engine uses a multifunctional balancer shaft that simultaneously drives the water pump and timing chain.

gEARBOX

thanks to the low-friction coating of the selector fork, the special Enduro 6-speed gearbox ensures ultra-precise shifting. The "zero-dirt" design of the selector prevents the accumulation of mud or dust in the joint. All KTM 4-stroke engines are equipped with a gear sensor that adapts the power curve to each gear. On the AM18, the gearbox shaft is fitted with a new C4 bearing with greater radial clearance. This enhances reliability, even under the most demanding operating conditions.

eNGINE HOUSINGS AND COVERS

the molded crankcase design offers a centralized shaft configuration. This allows the crankshaft to be positioned closer to the motorcycle's center of gravity, which is far from insignificant in terms of mass centralization. The crankcase covers feature an advanced surface structure to prevent premature wear caused by the rider's boots.

eMBRAYAGE

the KTM 350 EXC-F uses a DDS (Damped Diaphragm Steel) clutch developed by KTM. a wear-free steel clutch housing, heat-resistant clutch plates and new nitrate-treated steel liners. This clever design is distinguished by the use of a diaphragm spring instead of the usual coil springs, giving the clutch greater flexibility. The diaphragm spring also leaves plenty of room for a damping system integrated into the clutch hub, to enhance traction and durability. The clutch is activated by a hydraulic system manufactured by Brembo, which plays an essential role in the clutch's progressiveness and flexibility.

lIGHTING

the main objective of KTM engineers when developing the new EXC generation was to make the bike as light as possible. The result is clear: the current EXC models are among the lightest and slimmest enduro bikes on the market, despite the fact that they are now equipped with an extremely advantageous, yet powerful, suspension system.this is despite the fact that they are now equipped with a highly beneficial electric starter, whereas competing models still have to be kick-started. It's a sign that a strong current is flowing between the bike and its rider.

fRAME

the high-tech chromium-molybdenum steel frame is a model of lightness, flexibility and handling.the high-tech chromium-molybdenum steel frame, a model of lightness, flexibility and maneuverability, offers excellent stability and diabolical precision when cornering. Thanks to its high torsional stiffness and low longitudinal rigidity, this frame better absorbs the energy generated by the front and rear suspensions when jumping or negotiating a bump. The ride is more comfortable and less tiring. The dropouts that link the cylinder head to the frame are as light as ever. Mounted laterally, they help limit vibration levels. Two threaded inserts have been provided in the lower cradle tubes to add a shoe, should the need arise. The frame is now one kilo lighter than the lightest competing frame on the market today. Every effort has also been made to facilitate maintenance and free up space for the fuel tank and other components. The ultra-light buckle, made of stable aluminum profiles, weighs in at less than 900 grams.

fOOTREST

sophisticated "zero-dirt" footrests prevent the gear selector from getting dirty, even when riding in deep ruts. To enhance ground clearance, the gear selector on EXC models is 6 mm higher than on SX models.

sUSPENDING ARM

the latest-crime swingarm optimizes the position of the PDS shock absorber for even smoother entry into action. In addition to weight savings, cast aluminum is ideal for bending. The one-piece molding process eliminates the imperfections inherent in welding, guaranteeing more consistent build quality.

fRONT SUSPENSION

the WP XPlor 48 upside-down fork is a fork with separate damping circuits, developed by WP in close collaboration with KTM. Each fork leg is equipped with a spring and has a different function: the left leg handles compression damping, while the right leg handles rebound. To fine-tune each of these settings, simply turn the knob at the top of the fork. New outer tubes and setups have also improved sensitivity, lightened weight and optimized fork damping behavior. To reduce the risk of bottoming, the fork is equipped with a sealed hydraulic stop. High-quality materials, an ultra-sophisticated production process, 300 mm of travel: nothing has been left to chance to make the new WP Xplor 48 fork the ultimate in responsiveness and damping. The preload adjuster (available as retrofit) makes it easy to set spring preload to three levels (standard, +3 mm, +6 mm), without the need for tools.

rEAR SUSPENSION

a true KTM trademark, the PDS shock absorber is connected directly to the upper part of the swingarm. As a result, engineers were able to mount it in the most appropriate position for even more progressive damping. As the shock absorber has been moved closer to the central axis, the loads exerted on the swingarm and frame are virtually symmetrical. This also frees up space for the exhaust system. The second piston, combined with a cup-shaped limit stop (instead of a needle-type one) and supported by a progressive-action spring, guarantees excellent resistance to bottoming. With its various machined and anodized components and its characteristic WP color scheme, this ultra-sophisticated shock absorber makes a strong impression compared to less well-finished competing products.

bRAKES

more responsive, more efficient and more powerful, Brembo calipers will cope with any situation. These little jewels of technology are combined with Wave brake discs, renowned for their lightness. The stainless-steel front brake hose features effective protection and a cable guide for the speedo wire.

gUIDON

profiled and made of high-strength aluminum, these NEKEN handlebars feature a meticulouscanism, sturdy aluminum handlebars and an ultra-easy-to-adjust rear-grip system. right: an ODI vulcanized grip; left: the ODI lock-on grip, as comfortable as it is practical, thanks to its glueless, wire-free mounting system. And thanks to two interchangeable cams (retrofittable), you can adapt the throttle response to suit your riding style. An optional power curve button lets you change engine mapping and activate the traction control system for extra punch in wet conditions.

fORK TIPS

eXC-F models feature forged fork tees with a 22 mm offset, for improved fork support and even more precise front-end behavior. Four positions are possible on the EXC-F to move the handlebars forward or backward for a perfect grip.

aIR FILTER HOUSING

the air filter housing has been designed to protect the air filter from clogging and ensure optimum air flow with complete peace of mind. The cage housing the extra-large Twin Air air filter is totally rigid, helping to hold the system in place. The design is so simple that the filter can be replaced in seconds, with no tools required.

fUEL TANK

thanks to its transparent plastic, the ultra-light 8.5-liter polyethylene fuel tank lets you know at a glance how much fuel is left. To refuel, simply press the orange button in the center of the fuel cap to open the bayonet mechanism. This model features an integrated fuel pump system and fuel level indicator. The 90-degree fuel line connection further protects the fuel tank from damage.

eXHAUST

respecting noise emission levels is a real challenge for all manufacturers. That's why KTM has spared no effort in developing innovative exhaust systems. All four-strokes feature a relatively short rear silencer, mounted as close as possible to the engine. The benefits are threefold: more power, better mass centralization and enhanced driving pleasure. The internal design has also reached a significant degree of sophistication to keep noise levels well below recommended thresholds, while guaranteeing the level of responsiveness and performance you'd expect from a KTM.

wHEELS

featuring ultra-light CNC-machined hubs and top-of-the-range Giant rims, the EXC-F's wheels guarantee maximum stability despite limited weight. And since they are shod with MAXXIS tires, the bike is just as comfortable and safe off-road as it is on the road.

cOOLING SYSTEM

kTM's proven integrated cooling system circulates coolant from the cylinder head via the frame triangle to the aluminum radiators supplied by WP. Its incredible efficiency is due to improved management of internal airflow and advances in ventilation thanks to CFD (computational fluid dynamics) calculations. The new radiator protections offer the advantage of better heat dissipation. This is all the more true in the presence of mud. Integrated into the front spoilers, these radiator guards are particularly useful in the event of an impact.

bATTERY AND WIRING HARNESS

the starter motor is combined with a powerful lithium-ion battery, which saves a considerable amount of weight compared to before. The battery and wiring harness are grouped together in a compartment above the air-filter housing, so as not to be hindered by the electrical circuit when removing the buckle. Mechanics and do-it-yourselfers will appreciate this.

cARENAGE

kTM factory riders collaborated on the bike's design with KTM R&D specialists and the Kiska design agency, with a single watchword: to create perfect harmony between rider and machine. Particular attention has been paid to ergonomics and rider contact points to enhance freedom of movement and comfort on the EXC-F. The special shape of the front and rear mudguards guarantees maximum stability and minimum weight, thanks to a well thought-out structure and assembly. Best of all, they stay clean longer. The clever mounting of the brake hose on the cross front plate also reduces wear and tear. last but not least, the new deco kit confirms the READY TO RACE character of the 2018 KTM EXC-F range.

News and media credits: KTM