Since KTM introduced the 350 SX-F in 2011, it has continued to be one of the most unique and interesting motocross models on the market. Never a manufacturer to stick to the regular trends, KTM went out on a limb and created this bike knowing it didn’t exactly have a specific class tailored for its capacity. Was it a good idea in the end? Yes, it was a great idea. Why? Read on the find out!

The main target for KTM engineers was to reduce weight when it came to the new generation SX-F models and the 2017 KTM 350 SX-F comes in at just 99.8 kilograms. Now let’s remember that this bike also features electric start, which means it has to carry a battery on the bike too. It’s truly impressive to see KTM achieve this, and it’s definitely noticeable on track.

Starting with the frame, KTM continue to use their chrome-moly steel unit for 2017, which is designed to provide improved rideability, precise cornering and excellent stability. The frame also features high torsional rigidity and low longitudinal stiffness, this results in better absorption of the energy created from the front and rear suspension, sucking up jumps and bumps.

Image: Alex Gobert (Foremost Media).

The idea with this design was to create more comfort and less rider fatigue, which is definitely a key factor in motocross. KTM’s choice to stick with a steel frame has paid off and this refined chassis design really works well on track. The way the 2017 KTM 350 SX-F corners and drives, especially on hard surfaces, is quite impressive.

Attaching the engine to the frame, lightweight aluminum engine head stays also contribute to more precise cornering and a reduced vibration level. The engineers were able to pull off all that, while making their frame a whole kilogram lighter than that of the lightest competitor on the market. In addition, the 2017 KTM 350 SX-F also features an extra-light sub-frame made of stable aluminum profiles, which comes in at just 900 grams.

The swing-arm is designed using cast aluminum to continue saving weight whilst creating improved flex behavior. The single-component casting process also eliminates any inconsistencies created by welding. The result? A super strong, and super clean swing-arm unit that enhances performance and looks awesome right out of the box!

Not only does the 2017 KTM 350 SX-F feature a lightweight chassis design, but it now also features another huge weight saving component – air forks. New for 2017, the WP AER 48 fork is huge news when it comes to KTM’s motocross models. It’s the first time we’ve seen air forks on the KTM 350 SX-F, and we can guarantee you’ll be a huge fan of them right away.

Luckily enough for us here at MotoOnline.com.au, KTM Motocross Racing Team’s Danny Apro was on hand during the day to tweak the suspension settings to really get the bike feeling just right. After setting the rider sag to 108mm and spinning a few laps aboard the 2017 KTM 350 SX-F, I returned to the pits with my feedback and Apro worked his magic.

Image: Jeremy Hammer (Foremost Media).

After going 16 clicks out on the rebound on the rear shock, and setting the forks to an air pressure of 9.6 bar and 20 clicks out on the compression, I was feeling totally at home aboard the 350cc machine. The way the chassis and suspension combination works one set to your weight and style, it’s really a dream to ride. Compared to the previous 4CS fork system, the WP AER 48 air fork is a huge step up and it’s great to see.

Now, these features are super impressive, and awesome to see for 2017, but when it comes to the 350, the most interesting factor is the engine. It’s right there in between the 250 SX-F and the 450 SX-F, so does it have a place in the market? It definitely does. This has got to be one of the most user-friendly and enjoyable motorcycles I have swung a leg over to date – it really is the perfect mixture.

Being quite a light motorcycle with less rotating mass than the 450 SX-F, yet still housing a tonne of torque and power, the 350 SX-F perfectly lends itself to someone who’s right there in the middle. Maybe you’re a bit big, or a bit old for a 250cc four-stroke, you might not want to be revving your bike to the moon at all times. Or in my case, a 450cc four-stroke may just be a little too much when you’re tired and you find yourself getting into a bit of trouble!

The 2017 KTM 350 SX-F is the perfect motocross machine to cruise around on at your own pace, yet still houses the power and performance to easily compete with 450cc contenders. The ability to ride the bike a gear higher and maintain a smooth flow around the track is awesome, and the lightweight feel makes the 350 SX-F corner and handle in a similar way to the 250 SX-F.

Image: Alex Gobert (Foremost Media).

For 2017 another awesome and important update is the addition of a unique traction control and mapping system. Using a convenient handlebar map switch, you can now switch between two maps, one standard and another more aggressive, along with the traction control system. Seriously, did you ever think you would see a legitimate traction control system on a motocross bike? Neither did I.

I chose to stick with the more aggressive map throughout the day as the track offered reasonable traction throughout the day. The response and power delivery using this map suited my style and I found it to be the most comfortable out of the three options. The system is also very easy to use and won’t have you sitting on the side of the track wondering what to do. You can literally switch maps while you ride, it’s that easy.

Overall, the 2017 KTM 350 SX-F engine package, paired with the lightweight steel frame design and all-new WP AER 48 forks is big winner in my book. And in saying that, I haven’t even touched on all of the other features this bike offers right out of the box. As they say, these bikes are ready to race, so don’t be surprised when you see what KTM offer as standard.

Image: Jeremy Hammer (Foremost Media).

For 2017 the KTM 350 SX-F now features ODI Lock-On grips, which is a great addition to the range. No longer do you have to deal with grip glue or wire, it takes just one bolt to remove and you’re all done – great stuff! We see Brembo brakes standard front and rear for 2017, along with Galfer wave discs to compliment those. For MY17 the rear brake pedal is also 10mm longer and less aggressive brake pads have been added both front and rear.

Lightweight, CNC machined hubs are laced to black Excel rims to guarantee maximum stability and minimal unsprung weight. In addition, the 2017 KTM 350 SX-F features the latest Dunlop Geomax MX 3S tyres right off the showroom floor. Another cool feature is the use of black spokes laced to the high-end wheel and hub combination, it’s just another nice feature offered by KTM.

It’s highly likely that you’re yet to swing a leg over the 2017 KTM 350 SX-F if you’re reading this, and if you’re tossing up between models for 2017, this is definitely one to consider. Do you enjoy the characteristics of a 250cc four-stroke but wish you had extra power and torque on tap when you feel lazy? Well, the 2017 KTM 350 SX-F is definitely the machine for you. The 2017 KTM 350 SX-F is now available Australia ride for a recommended retail price of $12,195. For more information head to www.ktm.com.au.