2017 KTM 350 XC-F

2017 KTM 350 XC-F

With the arrival of the new generation 350 XC-F the success story can continue. The nimble but powerful bike comprises of almost as much power as a 450, but with the agility of a 250 – so the basic idea is easily summarized, and has been a concept with success from the start.

• ENGINE

The new DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) engine of the 350 XC-F features a completely new construction in order to make it even more compact and powerful than before. Fitted with the latest electronic fuel injection system, it has a very wide and usable power spread while still delivering high performance. The new design has made the engine 20 mm shorter than before, while reducing the weight by 2 lbs.

• CYLINDER HEAD

The new cylinder head features an improved combustion chamber geometry, two overhead camshafts with a friction-optimized super-fine surface, new finger followers with a 30 % harder DLC coating and high-flow ports. In conjunction with new valve springs and retainers for the four lightweight titanium valves (intake 36.3 mm, exhaust 29.1 mm) the flow rate has been maximized for an optimal power band with more performance across the entire range, which peaks at 13,400 rpm. The peak performance now is at 58 hp.

• CYLINDER AND PISTON

In the redesigned and shorter cylinder, with a bore of 88 mm, works a weight-reduced forged bridged box-type piston made by CP. Its new piston crown geometry is adapted to the new high-compression combustion chamber and stands out with its extra rigid structure and low weight. Thanks to the low oscillating masses, the engine is extremely lively. The compression ratio is 14:1.

• ELECTRIC STARTER

The new 350 XC-F is fitted with an electric starter as standard, which a clear advantage when it comes to crunch time in the heat of battle. A new starter motor made by Mitsuba (modified for easy disassembly) and a weight reduced starter drive guarantees more efficient and reliable starting

• CLUTCH

The highly compact CSS clutch (Coil Spring Steel) features a weight reduced, wear-free steel basket, and now seven instead of eight clutch plates, which are extremely heat resistant due to their steel carrier discs. In addition, a reworked inner hub and a pressure plate guarantees a better oil supply along with even better cooling of the clutch. A smaller master cylinder diameter of the Brembo hydraulic clutch system provides lighter pull and precise modulation

• CRANKSHAFT

The new 350 XC-F's crankshaft is lighter and features a stiffer design than before. It utilizes a shorter connecting rod, contributing to the compact and light engine with a snappy power delivery. This design is a major prerequisite for the extremely high engine speed levels and the unrivalled maximum power of the 350 cm³ engine. Not only that, it enhances the engine's durability, allowing long crankshaft service intervals.

• TRANSMISSION

The new engine is fitted with an all-new and weight reduced, six-speed semi-close ratio gearbox. One of the new and special features on the bike is an advanced "NO-DIRT" gear lever design, which prevents dirt from blocking the joint of the lever and guarantees a safe activation of the transmission.

• COUNTER BALANCE SHAFT

In order to balance the high-revving engine, the new 350 XC-F engine uses a multifunctional counter balance shaft driving the water pump and timing chain. It features new sprockets fitted to the new timing chain.