Traveled: KTM EXC-F 350 2017

In Spain, I had the opportunity to test what he can do on the pitch with all the elements of enduro. Fast macadams, narrow trails, steep climbs, mud, rocks and cross-test. I will not argue that in almost every situation on this difficult enduro lap it was the best choice for a certain area, but when I got the whole circle, it turned out to be very convincing everywhere. For extreme climbing, I would go for the 300cc two-stroke, which is lighter, but when I checked where this EXC-F 350 can climb, it didn’t leave me indifferent. A new frame, new suspension (PDS rear, WP Xplor front fork), new (great) brakes and new plastic with all the details that make it easier for you to get on the bike put KTM at the top of what enduro has to offer for the moment. They took a motocross motorcycle as a basis, which was adapted for enduro. The bottom line is an engine that, thanks to a new design, combines power close to a 450 cubic meter engine with the agility of a 250 cubic meter motorcycle. Single cylinder 350 cc engine The fuel-injected cm is 20 millimeters shorter, which helps control the vehicle and centralizes mass, which translates into the very agility of the entire motorcycle. In addition, they were able to reduce the engine weight by 1,9 kilograms with the help of new technologies. What a versatile bike this is, I realized when I was able to drive 12 miles almost entirely in third gear. With a powerful and flexible motor, this magic gear is perfect for any situation. I liked it because it didn’t have to go to high revs, that it gave me something like the EXC-F 250, and that it didn’t bore me like the EXC-F 450.

The latest purchase, the anti-skid system, impressed me when I was looking for the perfect line in cross country tests that was well soaked and very slippery in some places. When the sensor detects that the wheel is in neutral, it reduces aggressiveness and ensures optimum use of engine power.

The only negative is actually the price, more than 9.000 euros - this is a lot for an off-road motorcycle, but obviously not excessive, since the EXC-F 350 is one of the first to be sold out.

text: Petr Kavčič, photo: Sebas Romero, KTM