2016 KTM 350 for Vet racing?

Ardenb64
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Ardenb64
Edited Date/Time 2/5/2016 2:13pm
Hi all, (first post for me!)

I'm 32, 6', 205# getting back into racing with aspirations of qualifying for LL's in the next year or two. I rode my buddy's KTM 350 sxf the other day, and I was so surprised that it crept up on my short list of bikes to buy. I'm contemplating between the orange 350/450 mainly, but I may go blue as well...

I wanted to poll the more experienced vet guys out there and see if they find the 350 competitive enough for the class. I think it'll be fine with a little tuning, but isn't that the case with all of them?

While we're at it, let's say I go with the 350. Who do you guys trust with WP suspension for revalving?

Thanks in advance!
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40Plus_922mx
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40Plus_922mx 1/14/2016 9:42am
1/14/2016 9:42am
I like the 350. But I usually don't ride a bike that far up in the rpms. I like a little more down low so when I start to gas (on lap 1) I work less.
49weasel
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49weasel 1/14/2016 9:43am
1/14/2016 9:43am
No/Yes.. The suspension is crap but the power is damn near perfect.
Tim507
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Tim507 1/14/2016 10:03am
1/14/2016 10:03am
My current race bike is a 2016 350...its an awesome bike....I'm certain you can get the suspension worked out......FC or_______

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ktm300hater
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ktm300hater 1/14/2016 10:16am
1/14/2016 10:16am
I have the 15. Love it. And the 16 has a few more ponies. The suspension isn't all that terrible to me. But what do I know and I'm slow
newmann
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newmann 1/14/2016 11:45am
1/14/2016 11:45am
I know a guy who had one. Liked it so much he bought another and another. He occasionally posts here.
tek14
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tek14 1/14/2016 12:00pm
1/14/2016 12:00pm
Did try 350 and Yamaha450, both good bikes but Yamaha was way to go for me.
Ghost of Jabroni 1/14/2016 12:14pm
1/14/2016 12:14pm
TeamGreen wrote:
Yes
Just listen to Manny.

You will fall in love with the characteristics of the 350.

Whereas with the 450 you will always wonder what couldve been.
mx317
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mx317 1/14/2016 12:21pm
1/14/2016 12:21pm Edited Date/Time 1/14/2016 1:46pm
I rode both 16 KTM450 and 350, loved the 350. I'm big at 245 and it pulled my fat butt fine. That said, it is a KTM (I've had several) and has it's quirks. I ended up buying a 16 KXF450.
Ardenb64
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Ardenb64 1/14/2016 12:30pm
1/14/2016 12:30pm
mx317 wrote:
I rode both 16 KTM450 and 350, loved the 350. I'm big at 245 and it pulled my fat butt fine. That said, it is a...
I rode both 16 KTM450 and 350, loved the 350. I'm big at 245 and it pulled my fat butt fine. That said, it is a KTM (I've had several) and has it's quirks. I ended up buying a 16 KXF450.
This is what I love about MX: Different strokes for different folks...

I appreciate the feedback!
yak651
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yak651 1/14/2016 12:48pm
1/14/2016 12:48pm
I had a '13 350. Really liked it, plenty of power (of course I'm only 150lbs). When I had it, didn't really notice issues with suspension, but rode a buddies yz250f and felt like riding a pillow next to my bike (of course I just played with clickers, never sent my suspension out). My buddies that rode my 350 really liked it, in fact I should get a commission because one went out a purchased a husky 350 after riding mine. I sold my 350 and bought a '15 yz250f and feel more "in control" of my 250. Saying that I do miss the 350 hp in sand corners and the electric start when I get tired...I think you would be pretty happy with a '16 350.
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yak651 1/14/2016 12:50pm
1/14/2016 12:50pm


Plenty of power to holeshot Vet classes...
Ghost of Jabroni 1/14/2016 12:53pm
1/14/2016 12:53pm
KTM's used to have really plush suspension. Great for the average noob & vet rider.

All the magazines complained in every shootout that the suspension was too soft.

Now they got harsh suspension. I dont read too many happy reviews from consumers.


Either way, Ive just accepted that youre always going to need to send your suspension in for a revalve to get it what you want it to be because it's impossible for a OEM to spring a set that will work with everyone. They can account for the normal weight they expect a 125 rider to be or a 350 rider to be, but differing skill levels want different suspension characteristics. They cant possibly please everyone.
Ardenb64
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Ardenb64 1/14/2016 1:26pm
1/14/2016 1:26pm
Ghost of Jabroni wrote:
KTM's used to have really plush suspension. Great for the average noob & vet rider. All the magazines complained in every shootout that the suspension was...
KTM's used to have really plush suspension. Great for the average noob & vet rider.

All the magazines complained in every shootout that the suspension was too soft.

Now they got harsh suspension. I dont read too many happy reviews from consumers.


Either way, Ive just accepted that youre always going to need to send your suspension in for a revalve to get it what you want it to be because it's impossible for a OEM to spring a set that will work with everyone. They can account for the normal weight they expect a 125 rider to be or a 350 rider to be, but differing skill levels want different suspension characteristics. They cant possibly please everyone.
Can't agree more. I figure the revalve in with the price of ANY bike--new or used, any color. If you don't I believe you are just missing out!
Jaybird67k
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Jaybird67k 1/14/2016 1:39pm
1/14/2016 1:39pm
I raced a Yamaha 450 for many years in the +40 A/B class and then I purchased the 2011 350 and kept my 450.
I increased my speed close to 20% on the 350 just from having to ride it more aggressive.
I have since sold my 450 and ride a new 350 and love it. As far as the suspension I go with Jeremy Wilkey at MX-Tech with the Huck Valves installed.

I do still own 3 Yamahas for fun and......well...the awesome out of the box SS Suspension.

Jason
BobPA
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BobPA 1/14/2016 1:44pm
1/14/2016 1:44pm
I've got an '11 350 that I bought new (time flies), and I now absolutely love it. The engine has always been great....but it took me a bit to adapt to the chassis and suspension. I've got some engine work done, pipe, remap, high compression piston, mild port work, etc. and it really runs well. Sadly the 2015 engine was stronger than mine out of the box....I can only imagine how well the 2016 runs.

KB5 did my suspension, and after a dedicated setup day I now have the bike working excellent. I had plans of buying a 2016, but I have got mine working so well I cannot justify it. That being said I am buying a '17 husky 350...just because Cool

I have had 5 people who rode my bike, and within 3 months were all on 350's (some Huskies, some KTM's) My old man is 67 and is absolutely in love with the thing.

The 350 awards aggressive riders...it's gotta be ridden hard to get the full potential, if you wanna be lazy buy the 450....but if you want a bike that can do anything, buy a 350
gpracer36
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gpracer36 1/14/2016 1:57pm
1/14/2016 1:57pm
I had a 15 350, it was ok, but I prefer the torque of a 450. I dont like to rev a bike constantly. Not only that, rear suspension works better through whoops a gear high. Revving it out puts a load on everything while tracking through rough whooped out crap.
ktmpartsdirect.com 1/14/2016 2:03pm
1/14/2016 2:03pm
The 350 is a great bike! We all here have rode them since 2011 when they came out. The 2011 and 2012 were a little soft in the power department, 2013 to 2015 were great bikes and made a lot more power!! The 2016 is by far the best! The motor is a lot more friendly, allowing you to lug it more but still has great over rev. The chassis is also awesome, the rear end of the bike stays planted and turns very well! One of our good customers has a 2015 Yzf 450 and yes it did pull me the first 20 feet out of a corner a little, once the 350 gets in the meat of the power and into the rev's the 350 pulled so much harder. The 4cs forks are in need of some work, but there are a lot of great company's that can make these work. The best and most expensive is going with a set of Wp Cone Valve forks. We have found that a good revalve can make the fork a lot better for the average rider. Any more question please let me know, Thanks Nick.

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stone881
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stone881 1/14/2016 2:58pm
1/14/2016 2:58pm
I rode a 350 about 2 months ago with AER fork and I was impressed. I say wait for the 17 and don't forget to rev the shit out!
mxgreg85
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mxgreg85 1/14/2016 4:32pm
1/14/2016 4:32pm
I've yet to ride a 350 and am intrigued by the concept. My main question is: does giving up 100cc of cylinder volume really make it feel that much more light/flickable/manageable than a 450? Its still a big 4 stroke, not going to feel like a 125. I have a hard time coming to terms with the idea of going 100cc less when they're both over 220?lbs anyway. Like not getting nuts on your ice cream when the man offers it for just a few cents more. Is it really that much better than a 450 for us slower, easily worn out guys? Would love to ride both back to back and hear from those who have.
Subwaytom
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Subwaytom 1/14/2016 4:33pm
1/14/2016 4:33pm
I have had a 2011, 2013 and a 2016 KTM 350F. They are a hole shot machine. It will holeshot any of the Vet classes in Texas. They corner and stop like a 250F. The Motor on the 2016 does not need to be hopped up, just rev it. The suspension is not as bad as people say. You can tune it to your liking.
xr70
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xr70 1/14/2016 5:44pm
1/14/2016 5:44pm Edited Date/Time 1/14/2016 5:57pm
It all depends on what type rider u are and what riding u do ! If U like two strokes and that sort of top end power and aggressive riding than the 350 is for u . Or if u are more relax smoth rider than low end power of the 450 will be probably better for u ? I have 15 yz450f and I love it . Also I like my CR250R but just for fun, when I race I am on the 450 .
kkawboy14
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kkawboy14 1/14/2016 6:02pm
1/14/2016 6:02pm
I purchased a kxf450.....broke it in, set the sag, set the forks air pressure.

Plush, didn't have to figure any extra money into this bike. I still have the stock bars on it!
OR Racer46
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OR Racer46 1/14/2016 6:31pm
1/14/2016 6:31pm
If you are racing the vet classes. Please do not get a 350 . A 125 should be your weapon of choice . It will make you feel good about yourself . If you are trying to go to LL. Then look for o maybe a 93 yz 125.
de883zx
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de883zx 1/14/2016 6:55pm
1/14/2016 6:55pm
I agree or racer 46. Nothing better than holding a 125 wfo and sending it.
crusher773
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crusher773 1/14/2016 6:57pm
1/14/2016 6:57pm
I bought an '11 350 right when they came out and it has been a fantastic bike. I came off a 250 and I have never liked 450s way too heavy and the power to me is just unusable. I do ride it up in the RPMs more and if you are a good enough rider it is easily competitive enough. Its a great bike.
Jterry
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Jterry 1/14/2016 7:57pm
1/14/2016 7:57pm
I raced 25+ on a ported yz250 and always did well until the tracks get really ruff and slick. I rode an 11 350 and hated it. I then rode a 13 350 and really liked it. So i sold the yz and bought a 13 350 brand new in jan. 2013. I raced it for 2.5 years never had a problem with it. Other than the suspension. I sent it off to a guy i trust and everytime I would ride a friends newer yamaha and then get back on the ktm i hated the suspension.

The motor is good on them if you rev it. Im not a rev'r so i geared it down and changed the intake cam and mapped it. All that helped alot but still had to rev the hell out of it. And yes they do make almost 450 peak power but its a very narrow window of power and at under 10,000 rpm they are down 5-10 to a 450.

Yes you can pull holeshots on them I didn plenty of times. But if you make a small mistake off the start and have to slip the clutch to get the front down or spin alittle the 450's will gap you. And then you still have to buy a $9000 bike and spend $700-1000 on the suspension to get it as good as a stock yamaha.

Needless to say i sold it and bought a 16 yz450 and I love it. When the track gets ruff theres no comparison between the two brands forks. The ktm's are harsh and the yamaha's feel like your riding on a pillow. Plus the yz450 has wayy more roll on power out of corners and makes more peak power.

Im 6'3 170-175 lbs with gear on a race 25+ 30+ B
josh8811
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josh8811 1/14/2016 8:17pm
1/14/2016 8:17pm Edited Date/Time 1/14/2016 8:21pm
6'1 185 Over30 expert desert guy here..

I prefer the 350 over any bike available. I appreciate things about a lot of bikes, but if ripping anywhere and everywhere is the main concern, I'd pick the 350xc every time.


250 smoker.. fun, cheap, quick, makes you a rider
300 smoker..awesome in every way.. Only slightly edged out by the 350 and how well it tracks and hooks up
450.. fun as shit, but too fast when I've got my head down and really pushing. The slightest mistake with the throttle, it stands up and quits turning, wheelies, or just tries to eat me.
500+ strokers, had a few, fun, but too much when being aggressive or in tight areas.


IMO the suspension thing isn't an issue.. There's plenty of people who have the 4CS figured out, my buddy Jesse at Division MX being one of them..
josh8811
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josh8811 1/14/2016 8:34pm
1/14/2016 8:34pm
BobPA wrote:
I've got an '11 350 that I bought new (time flies), and I now absolutely love it. The engine has always been great....but it took me...
I've got an '11 350 that I bought new (time flies), and I now absolutely love it. The engine has always been great....but it took me a bit to adapt to the chassis and suspension. I've got some engine work done, pipe, remap, high compression piston, mild port work, etc. and it really runs well. Sadly the 2015 engine was stronger than mine out of the box....I can only imagine how well the 2016 runs.

KB5 did my suspension, and after a dedicated setup day I now have the bike working excellent. I had plans of buying a 2016, but I have got mine working so well I cannot justify it. That being said I am buying a '17 husky 350...just because Cool

I have had 5 people who rode my bike, and within 3 months were all on 350's (some Huskies, some KTM's) My old man is 67 and is absolutely in love with the thing.

The 350 awards aggressive riders...it's gotta be ridden hard to get the full potential, if you wanna be lazy buy the 450....but if you want a bike that can do anything, buy a 350
This guy calls it..

If you're an aggressive, ripper, athlete, get the 350..

If you're lazy and prefer more passive riding, get the 450.
BobPA
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BobPA 1/14/2016 8:34pm
1/14/2016 8:34pm
mxgreg85 wrote:
I've yet to ride a 350 and am intrigued by the concept. My main question is: does giving up 100cc of cylinder volume really make it...
I've yet to ride a 350 and am intrigued by the concept. My main question is: does giving up 100cc of cylinder volume really make it feel that much more light/flickable/manageable than a 450? Its still a big 4 stroke, not going to feel like a 125. I have a hard time coming to terms with the idea of going 100cc less when they're both over 220?lbs anyway. Like not getting nuts on your ice cream when the man offers it for just a few cents more. Is it really that much better than a 450 for us slower, easily worn out guys? Would love to ride both back to back and hear from those who have.
In short, yes it is. I think a lot of it has to do with the rotating mass...they feel like a really really fast 250f as opposed to a big clumsy 450. They are not the greatest for people who are lazy, but really award aggressive riding. I run +25A and do quite well on the thing. RPM's are your friend...

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