New 2020 KTM 350sxf Loud Engine Noise

Most likely it is the cam chain tensioner as they are very noise.

Paw Paw

So, is it a problem that needs to be corrected or is that just the way they are and not to be worried about?

The new bikes are louder, I noticed it for sure. No problems and I have 55 hours on my 2019 350. One thing I listen for is that when the bike is cold, it will be louder then once the oil gets to the top it will get slightly quieter, that means the oil pumps are working and its flowing.

Obviously if it's crazy loud or abnormal, check;
Valves
Cam chain (but isn't KTM auto hydro adjusted?)
oil level
oil delivery to the top end

My 2019 FC350 was loud AF for a few seconds after cold startup. It was the time it took for the cam chain tensioner, which is hydraulically actuated via engine oil, to start tensioning. After a few hours, it's not as bad.

When does yours make noise?

Ive noticed the same thing on my 19 with 9 hours on it. It sounds like it has 80 hours. But feels and rides tight.

Funny you say that as I think my 18 is noisier than my 12 was. I’m pretty anal about oil changes and tend to change it more than recommend (2.5-5hrs with a filter) by KTM. A couple of times I’ve pulled over when I thought it did sound right.
Still has plenty of power, runs well, sounds ok.

Happened upon this. Replacement tensioner that claims to cure the loud cam chain.

http://www.cyclebuy.com/shopping/dirttricks/tensioner.htm

So, after this discussion a few months back, I noticed there are now multiple companies selling replacement cam chain tensioners for the KTM/HUS 250/350 to get rid of the stock hydraulically actuated one.

I've noticed on my 2020 FC350 that the excess noise from apparent lack of chain tension happens almost always if the bike is good and warm and I shut it off for just a few seconds or a minute or so to stop at the side of the track and then restart it. If I let the bike cool down for 20-30 minutes between motos it doesn't do it on the next start up.

I just bought one of these new Nihilo manual tensioners . I guess this is their Gen-2 version. The Gen-1 version required you to tap the stock oil jet and thread in a plug but this one does not.



Question: Can the stock tensioner be removed from the head on the bike? It's pretty close to the frame and looks like you might not have the clearance to get it out of there.

Yes
will come out
take allen cover off first, then outer housing tensioner will want to follow
use something to go through and hold tensioner back inside and remove outer piece
then tensioner will clear coming out