Ok folks long story short I am coming from a completely dialed in 22 ktm 350sxf to a new left over 24 ktm 350sxf. I’ve read tons of stuff since the release of this chassis and it seems break in time is the biggest change in feel and handling so with that being sad should I just drill out some material at the shock tower? Thats the big diff from 24-25 which I just might do today. Axle blocks for the rear are kn the way, connectivity unit has the engine dialed to my liking but the front end mid turn wash out is terrible just like the handlebar swap I experienced on rough straight away. It seems to be very front end biased and any sudden movements it acts strange. Kyb a kit forks, stock front wheel with crap mx34 tire, o will put my other wheel with mx3s on for next ride. Rear shock has been valved etc for me and I notice giving it a tad more sag seemed to help. Any and all suggestions are greatly appreciated. I plan to put my sfs upper clamp and ktm split lower on this bike to see if that helps with the sting as well
Just ride the fuckin thing jesus. You're not going to make it a 25 chassis by drilling holes in the frame.
Hey there vital keyboard tough guy, I’m pretty sure I can make it handle better and that’s the entire point of this post, not sure what value you bring to the table but I assume that’s a direct reflection of you in life in general. Thanks for your help much appreciated.
There was a slight typo I believe about axle blocks but curious to know more how those helped you?
Also, do aftermarket triple clamps actually seem to help? I bought WP Xact Kit suspension and am wondering if I should keep stock upper and lowers or swap those out when I do suspension
Don't kid yourself you will absolutely make it worse, less reliable and destroy the resale value. See you at harbor freight.
The Shop
DeCal Works Huge Plastic Inventory of UFO and Polisport kits.
Luxon 4-Post Bar Mounts
$189.95 - $239.95
Free shipping: VITALMX
I am taking the triples off of my 22 so will report back after I get that done, axle blocks i used n my 22 and the bike itself was phenomenal so why not give it a go on this one as well.
I have been in the autobody industry for 22 years and I’m not stupid, oh I also have a full blown powder setup to re powder the frame when I’m done if I so choose. If you listen to all the reviews and look at the old gen frame compared to this frame it’s quite a difference in material usage, so that says to me when looking at the 25 frame you see a big hole it’s to free up some flex not to mention the holes in the 25+ engine mounts…. Its not that hard to figure out the benefits of improvement are on this bike so why not give it a shot. You and I are are not on the same level but your insight is fabulous
I would save mods you can’t undo until last. Just my opinion. I like the 23 chassis though, after some hours that is.
They also made other changes in conjunction with the frame.. Swingarm, linkage, engine mounts are different so not sure just drilling some holes in the frame alone will accomplish what you want.. Tighten you steering stem as tight as you can get it and play with fork Ht and suspension settings to get the feel you are looking for.. Also could try Powerpart or xtrig split clamp with adjustable offset
I wouldn't recommend drilling the frame. The frame def softens up the more you ride it. Trying the new engine hangers would be a good move. Did you check to see if your kit forks are the same length as stock? Second line on fork height seems the best on hard pack. { Not counting the fork cap}
Must haves? Dial suspension, adjust ergos, ride.
I feel safe in saying nobody “needs” to drill holes in the bike to go faster.
the 2025 engine mounts really help with vibration for the 350 and 450
https://ktmtwins.com/products/ktm-engine-brace-set-250-350-450-2023-202…
The best advice you can get on this is to completely ignore whoever gave you the advice to drill holes in the chassis.
I highly doubt the holes near the shock tower do much of anything to change the feel of the chassis (looks great for marketing, though!) It's the tubing changes they made connecting that to the head tube that make the difference.
On backorder…. But I would like to try these…you say helps with the vibrations?
Grips and bars, back spring and you are good to go.
Although it would be ccool to drill the frame and let us know hown it goes.
I raced a 23 sxf350 last season, really good handling but the overall feel was uncomfortable and harsh like people say. Felt like every pebble I hit sent a shock through my bones. Split Triple clamps and softer engine mounts seemed to help me out the most. I don;t believe it will make your lap times faster by replacing these. But it will overall improve comfort and more strength at the end of a long day. If you are a woods guy Id also suggest the Mako 360.
Lots of offroad guys with the 24 frames are removing the upper frame/engine bolts on both sides. I removed mine but haven't ridden the bike yet, hope to try it this weekend.
I heard larger did it and noticed a difference but was concerned the motor was going to fall out
Pit Row
Why I wouldn’t buy a used bike reason #287 - owner drilled material out his shock tower to give the chassis more flex. 🤦🏼♂️
wasn’t that just people being stupid after the photos of mannys bike after erzberg? didn’t the bolt just fall out?
Rep link and knuckle made the biggest difference to me, along with getting rid of aer
I have a set of the Pro Parts motor mounts still in the package if anyone is interested in… didn’t realize the 25 would come standard with them.
Not sure why getting rid of AER would help. Most people are finding the forks perfectly fine.....
To the OP, there is plenty of comment that a lot of people have zero issue with the 23/24. Wouldn't you be best to ride it your self into the 8-10 hour region and see if it is ACTUALLY a problem for you?
Apparently I’m not most people, and neither are a lot of other people around here
Most people around here are pussies then
In NZ? Probably
It's crazy how different opinions are on the 23+ chassis. Some say it's too rigid and some have no issues with it at all, i peronally love my 23 350sxf. I do have kyb forks on mine but i also didn't mind the stock forks. I will say my 45hr 350 with kyb forks feels more plush than my brand new 25 150sx.
A lot of it depends on the type of dirt you ride on. To make it more confusing the 2 strokes don't feel as stiff as the 4 strokes.
Interested … PM sent
Post a reply to: 23+ ktm chassis must haves