01. Engine & Exhaust
Engine
Engineered to find the perfect balance of agility, weight, and power, the KTM 350 EXC-F's fuel-injected DOHC engine is set to become a future legend. Its class-leading power delivery and lightweight give it an unbeatable power-to-weight ratio too. A long story short, this is the most perfectly balanced powerplant on the market.
Cylinder head
The KTM 350 EXC-F engine is fitted with a compact DOHC cylinder head for optimal mass centralization while contributing to even better handling. The head configuration, with 2 overhead camshafts controlling the gas flow through the ports, promises outstanding, dual-sport specific engine characteristics. The DLC coated finger followers, as well as the lightweight valves they actuate (intake 36.3 mm, exhaust 29.1 mm), allow for higher engine speeds, a crucial factor in the 350's dynamic performance.
Crankshaft
The KTM 350 EXC-F's crankshaft is located in an ideal position close to the center of gravity, contributing to easier handling. It utilizes a short connecting rod, which makes for an overall compact and lightweight engine with a snappy power delivery. A plain big (bottom) end bearing with two force-fitted bearing shells runs directly on the crank pin. The engine's pressurized lubrication system provides the necessary oil feed for this bearing.
Crankcases and engine covers
A lightweight engine case design allows for a very centralized shaft configuration while contributing to an efficient centralization of mass. Additionally, the engine covers feature a smart surface structure that reduces the wear caused by the rider's boots, keeping them looking as fresh as the day it rolled off the production line, while a reinforced clutch cover and engine guard mean the engine case is more robust.
Transmission
The KTM 350 EXC-F features a robust 6-speed transmission made by PANKL Racing Systems. The gears are made of a strong, forged raw material, ensuring the highest durability and reliability level. All four-stroke engines are fitted with a gear sensor, giving the option of different engine characteristics for each gear.
Engine management system
The state-of-the-art Keihin Engine Management System, with electronic fuel injection, features a 42 mm throttle body with separate systems for cold starting and idle adjustment. The throttle cable mount also allows for easy access and a smooth routing of cables for crisp throttle response, every time.
Cylinder and piston
Inside the short 88 mm bore cylinder, is an extremely lightweight, forged bridged box-type piston made by CP. Despite its incredibly low weight, it has an extra rigid structure for enhanced durability. Thanks to its lightweight construction, the oscillating masses are low, giving the engine extremely lively characteristics. The compression ratio of 13.5:1 delivers an exceptional engine performance and reduces the risk of engine knocking.
Balancer shaft
The multifunctional side-mounted counter balance shaft masterfully balances all the oscillating forces, while also driving the water pump. It effectively keeps engine vibrations to a minimum, resulting in the smoothest ride even at the highest engine speeds.
Clutch
The KTM 350 EXC-F is fitted with the extremely durable, KTM-developed DDS clutch (damped diaphragm steel), with a wear-free steel basket and heat-resistant clutch plates. It uses a diaphragm spring instead of the usual coil springs, which results in considerably easier clutch action. Additionally, the Brembo hydraulic system provides easy and precise clutch modulation throughout the entire operating temperature range.
E-Starter
The standard electric starter on the KTM 350 EXC-F uses a proven starter drive and a strong starter motor made by Mitsuba. As demonstrated time and time again, it provides quick and reliable starting, saving you precious time and energy when you need it most.
Cooling
Keeping the engine cool when the going gets tough comes courtesy of a pair of radiators, mounted close to the center of gravity. These make use of CFD technology (Computational Fluid Dynamics) and clever coolant circuit routing, achieving optimum engine temperature for the highest performance, in all conditions. Above all, the delta distributor, integrated into the frame triangle, features a large center tube for highly efficient coolant flow.
Exhaust
Packing a punch and delivering an unmistakable engine note, all 4-stroke KTM EXC models feature an easy-access two-piece header pipe that can be disassembled easily to allow access to the rear shock. An aluminum muffler sleeve has a short and compact profile.
Engine
Cylinder head
Crankshaft
Crankcases and engine covers
Transmission
Engine management system
Cylinder and piston
Balancer shaft
Clutch
E-Starter
Cooling
Exhaust
