Motorcycle specifications KTM350 SX-F 2020 Dancing with an athlete

The KTM 350 SX-F successfully combines brute force and skill, and boasts an exceptional power-to-weight ratio. Now with the torque of a 450, but the agility of a 250, it's a light, lively bike with a lot going for it, and a pedigree that's sure to bring it glory.

engine and muffler

the 4-stroke revolutionized motocross and established KTM as a major player in the sport. Incredibly light and compact, these little engineering gems impress with their power and dynamism. right out of the dealership, KTM 4-strokes let you experience the highest level, in the purest READY TO RACE spirit.

engine

the engine of the 2020 350 SX-F benefits from a compact, lightweight structure (26.6 kg). This impressive powerplant benefits from an innovative clutch, a durable, well-spaced gearbox and a lightweight DOHC (double overhead camshaft) cylinder head. The engine also incorporates a new, more robust oil pump intermediate gear for greater reliability. equipped with the latest electronic fuel injection system and a convenient electric starter, it springs into action at the touch of a button.

cylinder head

the cylinder head of the 350 SX-F is an essential cog in the motorcycle's gearbox. It features two overhead camshafts with ultra-fine surfaces designed to minimize friction. These are responsible for actuating four titanium valves (intake: 36.3 mm, exhaust: 29.1 mm) using ultra-light, DLC-coated rockers. KTM's engineers have maximized flow to guarantee an optimum operating range. Performance is simply breathtaking throughout the rev range up to 13,400 rpm.

crankshaft

the 350 SX-F's highly rigid crankshaft uses a shortened, lightweight connecting rod, which contributes to the engine's incredibly dynamic character and optimum power delivery. The connecting-rod bearing features two force-fitted half-bearings acting directly on the crankshaft pin. This design is the prerequisite for extremely high speeds and unrivalled power output from the 350 cm³ engine. This design extends engine life and extends crankshaft service intervals, saving the customer time, effort and money.

crankcases and covers

the use of a high-pressure die-casting process results in a relatively compact crankcase that is even lighter, while maintaining its strength and durability. The design of the crankcase has enabled KTM engineers to move the shaft mountings closer to the center of gravity, so as to better centralize the masses and enhance rideability. Another interesting innovation to keep the engine as radiant as in the early days: crankcase covers with an elaborate surface structure, designed to reduce wear caused by the rider's boots.

gearbox

the 350 SX-F features a robust 5-speed gearbox. The gear ratios of the previous version, perfectly suited to motocross riding, have been retained. Another highlight of the transmission is the "zero dirt" design of the selector. Designed on the same principle as the footrest, it prevents the accumulation of dust and enables the gearbox to remain operational in all conditions.

engine management

the highly sophisticated Keihin engine management system, with electronic fuel injection, features a 44 mm injector body. The position of the injector ensures excellent atomization of the fuel and air entering the combustion chamber. The engine is even more lively and generous when the throttle is opened. You also have independent control systems for cold start and idle. The engine control unit (ECU) offers specially adapted exhaust and cylinder head mappings to better manage traction and start-up control. To deliver maximum power, the ECU adapts the engine's characteristics to each gear, according to the data communicated by the gear sensor.

cylinder and piston

the 88 mm-bore cylinder houses a forged bridge-box piston of the highest quality, manufactured by CP. In addition to its extremely rigid structure, it features a unique crown shape to match the high level of compression in the combustion chamber. The high compression ratio (14:1) and reduced oscillating masses give the engine an extremely responsive character.

balancer shaft

to compensate for the inertia generated by the 350 SX-F, the engine is fitted with a multifunction balancer shaft. In addition to its beneficial effect on vibration levels, this shaft also drives the timing chain and water pump.

clutch

the DS (Diaphragm Steel) clutch transfers control to the rider's hands. It consists of a durable one-piece clutch housing and a main gear (made of ultra-high-strength billet steel), offering rock-solid reliability. Extremely heat-resistant steel motor friction discs are preloaded by a diaphragm spring to optimize clutch release. This type of design significantly reduces the force exerted on the clutch, even more so with the Brembo hydraulic system.

electric starter

the electric starter, available as standard on the 350 SX-F, uses a proven drive system and Mitsuba's robust electric motor. The rock-solid reliability of this system saves precious time and effort at crucial moments of the race.

handlebar-mounted map selector

all 4-stroke models feature a handlebar-mounted map selector.all four-stroke models feature a handlebar-mounted map selector for traction and start control, and for switching between power curves (Standard Advanced). Traction control is designed to enhance traction and control during acceleration, especially on demanding tracks. This function can be activated, even at full throttle, by means of the map selector on the handlebars. When the engine is idling, simply press both switches at the same time to activate Start Control, and you'll be off the grid even faster. In addition to the standard engine modes, the map selector gives access to other engine modes for maximum racing options.

cooling

to ensure smooth power delivery, it's essential to maintain optimum engine temperature. The position of the 350 SX-F's radiators, perfectly matched to the design of the spoilers, lowers the center of gravity and enhances ergonomics. Thanks to CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) and a judicious cooling circuit, this innovative system ensures that engine components are kept at the ideal temperature to guarantee the highest level of performance, whatever the conditions. Special radiator guards not only protect the radiators from stones and other debris, but also distribute the force of impact around them.

muffler

the exhaust system, fitted to all 4-stroke models, gives the engine a smoothness and liveliness that are hard to match. It features an exhaust manifold (specific to each model) and a small additional chamber, i.e. an advanced resonator known as the FDH (Flow Design Header) or flow-design exhaust manifold. This design allows the exhaust to be disassembled without removing the shock absorber, and facilitates access to the latter. The aluminum sleeve, the muffler tip and the internal structure of the muffler offer a further ergonomic advantage, slimming the silhouette of the motorcycle while complying with regulatory noise emission levels.

chassis

the 350 SX-F inherits the high-tech steel frame of the 2019 model year. Renowned for its handling, this frame also offers excellent feedback to the rider. The frame's flexibility has been optimized to absorb the biggest shocks and enhance the bike's agility and stability at high speeds. The chassis has also benefited from a number of innovations, such as "zero dirt" footrests and optional composite skid plate mounting brackets. Suspension damping characteristics have been optimized on the 2020 version. In particular, suspension settings have been revised to provide even greater flexibility and comfort. Combined with a high-performance, dynamic chassis, these suspensions make the driving experience more intuitive and enjoyable than ever.

frame

as with the rest of the KTM SX range, the frame of the 350 SX-F is made of hydroformed chromium-molybdenum steel tubing, assembled by automated welding to guarantee the highest levels of quality. Rigidity has been designed to enhance handling. The excellent cohesion with the suspension offers the perfect compromise between agility and high-speed stability. The frame of all KTM SX 2020 models benefits from a highly resistant lacquered coating and standard frame protectors. The lightweight aluminum rear buckle provides excellent feel for the rider and promotes mobility in the saddle.

swingarm

the 350 SX-F's one-piece, high-pressure-molded swingarm has been designed for maximum strength and minimum weight. It offers a wide range of rear-wheel adjustments, allowing you to shorten the wheelbase for greater manoeuvrability on narrow, winding trails, or increase it for greater stability on fast sections. The chain measurement marks on the swingarm are visible from above, making adjustments much easier.

wheels

featuring ultra-light CNC-machined hubs and top-of-the-range Excel rims, the wheels on all SX models guarantee maximum stability despite limited weight. The aluminum spoke nipples have been redesigned to reduce the frequency with which spokes need to be re-tensioned. The wheels are fitted with latest-generation DUNLOP Geomax MX 3S tires, to maximize power transfer to the ground and enhance stability.

front suspension

all standard-size KTM SX models feature the ultra-light WP XACT AER fork, with new settings for the 2020 model year. The arms of this 48 mm USD air fork have different functions: damping is on the right, air springing is on the left. The left fork arm features a double-chamber air cartridge system designed to prevent any loss of pressure. Should the outer seal leak, the pressure exerted inside the inner cartridge will keep the bike in its normal position. The air spring is extremely easy to adjust, and can be adapted to the rider's weight using a single valve and the air pump supplied with the bike. The right fork arm features a cartridge specially designed to meet the requirements of the single-arm design, and can be adjusted to suit track conditions or rider preference. To fine-tune each of these settings (compression from the top and rebound from the bottom), simply turn the new 30-notch knob above each fork arm.

rear suspension

the WP XACT DDC shock absorber, featured on all standard-size KTM SX models, has been frame and swingarm architecture, just like the linkage system and the WP XACT AER fork. Beyond its purely functional aspect, this little jewel captivates with its meticulous attention to detail, and in particular its high-quality machined and anodized components. Fully adjustable for high-speed and low-speed compression, it can be specifically adapted to track conditions or rider preferences.

fork tees

all KTM SX models use high-quality CNC-machined fork crowns, a KTM trademark. To take account of the flexibility of the frame and fork, engineers have stiffened the upper fork crown (22 mm offset on all models). The front end works in perfect harmony with the frame, making the bike even more stable and agile. Two positions are possible for the handlebar trigger guard, with vibration-damping pads. The hour meter, fitted as standard on the upper fork crown of all SX models, keeps track of hours spent in the saddle and indicates when it's time for maintenance.

brakes

state-of-the-art Brembo brakes are standard equipment on KTM motocross bikes. Combined with Wave brake discs renowned for their lightness, they deliver the stopping power expected by the most daring riders.

fuel tank

all KTM SX models feature an ultra-light polyethylene fuel tank. The shape of this tank has been designed to be more ergonomic, while retaining the same capacity (7 liters). The internally threaded fuel filler cap ensures easy, reliable closure.

air filter housing

the air filter housing on the 350 SX-F optimizes flow dynamics. Combined with the intake snorkels, it ensures maximum power delivery and excellent acceleration. In addition to the obvious performance gains, the design also serves to better protect the air filter from clogging. The rigid support for the large Twin-Air filter has been designed to minimize installation errors. As with previous models, the filter can be serviced in record time and without tools, a typically KTM feature. (For U.S.A. only) Each SX-F is equipped with a KTM PowerParts air filter housing cover. This features additional air inlets to optimize engine performance. In other words, it's possible to customize the air filter box to suit engine characteristics or track conditions.

ergonomics and comfort

the feeling of being at one with the motorcycle depends essentially on the speed at which the rider is able to move on the bike, and the efficiency of the maneuver. To give the rider perfect control, KTM engineers have taken great care to offer flawless ergonomics and optimum performance levels. To find a more natural and comfortable riding position, the rider can adjust the handlebar position to suit his or her preferences and the conditions. As the rider interacts primarily with the fairing, seat, footrests and handlebars, these contact points play a key role in balance and control. When it comes to ergonomics, KTM believes that only the very best components can guarantee the feeling and level of control that riders have come to expect from the 350 SX-F, and the entire SX range.

saddle

the saddle on all KTM SX models confirms the progress made in terms of dynamism and ergonomics. The saddle cover incorporates silicone strips to optimize grip and feel. A long screw inserted into the side of the saddle secures it more securely to the motorcycle, making it easier and safer to handle.

handlebars

all standard-size SX models feature the same ultra-strong, profiled aluminum handlebars made by NEKEN. Two positions are possible for the handlebar trigger guard with shock absorbers. right: an ODI vulcanized handlebar grip available as standard; left: an ODI lock-on handlebar grip that's as comfortable as it is practical, thanks to its glue- and wire-free mounting system.

footrests

sophisticated "zero-dirt" footrests prevent the pivot from fouling, even when driving through deep ruts.

styling and graphics

with this level of performance, it's hardly surprising that the 350 SX-F has had a huge impact on the market. The result of a collaborative effort between KTM factory riders, KTM R&D specialists and design agency Kiska GmbH, the fairing on this radical machine is the new sensation of the moment. The design of the SX 2020 models advocates perfect harmony between rider and bike, down to the smallest detail. Particular attention has been paid to the points of contact to ensure total freedom of movement for the rider and enhanced manoeuvrability. The special shape of the front and rear shells is a perfect example of the fairing's ingenious design: it guarantees maximum stability at minimum weight.

software and electronics

the 350 SX-F is a revolutionary motorcycle at the forefront of motocross innovation. Its state-of-the-art electronics make the most of its formidable power-to-weight ratio and optimize power delivery. The handlebar-mapped selector allows instant traction and start control, as well as the selection of different power curves. KTM engineers have taken mechanical performance to the extreme and developed electronics capable of transferring power to the ground as efficiently as possible. SX-F models also have the advantage of a proven electric starter. A simple press of a button is all it takes to switch to READY TO RACE mode.

battery

to start the engine every time, especially in cold weather, the starter of SX-F models is powered by an ultra-light, high-performance 2 Ah lithium-ion battery. The voltage regulator and capacitor, as well as all electrical components, are housed under the saddle for maximum reliability and compactness.

traction control

this extremely practical function ensures more efficient traction and better control of the bike during acceleration on wet or slippery surfaces. It can be activated, even in full throttle, by means of the map selector on the handlebars.

control at the start

simply press both map selector switches at the same time to activate START CONTROL and accelerate off the starting grid. Start Control reduces the engine's maximum speed at the precise moment of take-off, so you can maintain better control of your machine. The EFI light mounted on the upper fork tees flashes when this function is active.

handlebar-mounted map selector

at the touch of a button, the map selector switches between a standard engine mode and a more aggressive engine mode for trails with good grip. This allows the rider to better adapt the bike's handling to track conditions, or to benefit from better control when starting to show signs of fatigue.

Information and images credits: KTM