The KTM 350 XCF-W is one of the toughest machines in its class. From the moment you jump on its saddle, the bike is ready to reward you with a fun riding experience being able to deal effortless with everything you ask of it.

At its heart lies a compact, DOHC, 349 cc, 1-cylinder 4-stroke, water-cooled engine which is linked to a 6-speed gear box. The unit is brought to life by an electric starter and is fed by a generous fuel tank made of lightweight polythene with a capacity of 8.5 L.

The stopping power is handled by high-tech Brembo brakes that are offered as standard equipment. The braking system includes lightweight Wave discs that are combined with a new master cylinder with a new reservoir, a smaller piston diameter and a new lever with optimized kinematics.

Hit the jump for more information on the 2014 KTM 350 XCF-W.

2014 KTM 350 XCF-W

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2014 KTM 350 XCF-W
  • Engine/Motor: 1-cylinder 4-stroke engine, water-cooled
  • Transmission: 5-speed
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Overview

Best In Class!

The 350 XCF-W is the ultimate machine when optimum rideability and maximum enduro performance are called for. Thanks to its compact, powerful DOHC engine, its low weight and its perfectly tuned suspension, this machine masters each and every tough spot in cross-country riding with ease and poise. And thanks to its playful handling, it always holds the advantage when the going gets tough. The longer the distance, the more the rider benefits from this, pros and beginners alike. Maximum fun factor guaranteed.

Engine:

Starter

The engine is equipped with a kickstarter as well as an electric starter as standard. Well protected behind the cylinder, the electric starter is connected to the freewheel on the ignition rotor via the starter drive in the ignition cover.

Generator

The 350 xcf-w engine is equipped with a 196 w generator with integrated starter freewheel. The generator provides sufficient energy for fuel injection, lighting and other electrical loads. Compared to the 350 sx-f, the oil-cooled rotor has a larger diameter with a large flywheel mass and requires a larger ignition cover.

Crankshaft

Compared with the 350 sx-f, the 350 xcf-w has a a heavier crankshaft in order to achieve a more even power delivery and better traction through the greater gyrating mass. Like last season's ktm sx-f models, it now has a plain big end bearing.the previous needle bearing is replaced by two force-fitted bearing shells that run directly on the crank pin. The necessary oil feed for this bearing is ensured by the engine's pressure lubrication. This design increases the engine's long-term durability, allowing to lengthen the crankshaft service interval - a customer benefit with respect to time, effort and cost.

Engine management system (EMS)

The engine management system (ems) by keihin with electronic fuel injection and 42mm throttle body ensures a spontaneous response and maximum engine performance. With an optional map-select switch from the ktm powerparts program, ems allows selecting different engine characteristics. In additon, the optional user-setting tool allows to readout engine data with a laptop and change the ignition and injection mappings with a few mouse clicks.

Valve train

The crankshaft drives an intermediate shaft on the side which in turn drives the coolant pump and the two camshafts via the cam chain while at the same time acting as a counter balancer. A hydraulic chain tensioner enesures reliable chain tension to achieve highly precise valve timings.

Engine

The 350cc 4-stroke engine with a state-of-the-art electronic fuel injection offers a very wide power band and is distinguished by a dynamic but fatigue proof power delivery. At over 45hp of maximum power, the 350 xcf-w is strong enough to beat any 450.

Oil circuit

The 350 xcf-w engine is equipped with two oil pumps. A pressure pump provides reliable lubrication for the crankshaft, piston, counter balancer shaft and valve train. In addition, it ensures the cooling of the ignition and lubrication of the clutch. A scavenger pump draws oil from the crankcase to lubricate the transmission. This also creates a small vacuum inside the crankcase which increases engine performance.

Balancer shaft

In order to balance the mass-forces, the 350 xcf-w engine has a counter balancer shaft on the right side, doubling as a water pump drive and cam chain drive wheel. This solution is a major contribution to the extremely compact engine layout.

Cylinder head

The dohc cylinder head contains four ultra-lightweight titanium valves (intake 36.3mm, exhaust 29.1mm), which allow extremely high engine speed levels of up to 12,000 rpm in combination with very small, dlc-coated followers that weigh only 8g. The camshaft timings are pefectly tuned for performance in the enduro specific low rev range. In 2014, new valve spring retainers provide even more durability under the most extreme conditions, while a revised auto-decompression mechanism optimizes starting performance.

Engine case

Already by the previous model year, the crankcase was changed from sand-casting to die-casting in order to reduce wall thickness and save weight. For 2014, the optimized seal of the new water pump cover guarantees absolute reliability even under the most extreme conditions.

DDS clutch

Optimized for 2014, the single-piece basket of the dds (damped diaphragm steel) clutch is machined from solid high-tensile steel in one piece together with the primary drive gear. This process guarantees unbeatable reliability and contributes to the narrow engine width due to its compact rivet-less design. Additionally, this construction allows the use of thin steel linings which also contribute to the compact clutch dimensions. The diaphragm spring makes it possible to implement an additional rubber damping system inside the clutch hub, guaranteeing reliability for the transmission and good traction. In addition, a stronger inner hub further increases stability. Finally, the hydraulic clutch mechanism by brembo in conjunction with the diaphragm spring guarantees a very light operation and good controllable modulation of the clutch.

Transmission

The 6-speed gear box is specially matched to the power delivery of the 350cc engine and any kind of enduro riding. It is distinguished by easy and precise shifting.

Superior chassis:

Frame

The modern and lightweight frame design made of high-strength chromoly steel sections combines maximum longitudinal stiffness with optimum torsional ridigty. It guarantees easy handling and precise cornering, but also outstanding stability. In 2014, the frame of the 4-stroke weighs even less thanks to thinner walled down tubes. In addition, the braces that connect the cylinder head were optimized. This means all new frames not only have a striking new color but also set the clear benchmark with respect to weight and stability.

Fuel tank

All fuel tanks are made of lightweight polythene. The 4-stroke models are fitted with fuel pumps and pressure regulators. The release mechanism of the bayonet filler cap has been optimized so the cap can be opened quicker and easier.

Triple clamps

The lower triple clamp has been redesigned for optimum accomodation of the new front fender. Thanks to its new contour and mounting with two front and two bottom bolts, the new fender has a lot more stability.

Suspension/damping

The first rate WP Suspension elements have been further improved for 2014. Specially designed for enduro riding and in some models with an optimized tuning, they ensure maximum traction and plenty of comfort. Of course, compression and rebound damping can be adjusted to the track conditions and the rider's preferences with a twist of the wrist - the rear monoshock has separate high and low speed adjustments.

Swingarm

Designed using the latest in calculation and simulation software, the design and wall thickness of the cast aluminum swingarm have been optimized for minimum weight at optimum stiffness and precisely defined flexibility. For 2014, the engineers have revised the chain guide to increase reliability while lowering the weight.

Handlebar

All XC-W models are fitted with the super strong, tapered Neken handlebar made of high tensile strength aluminum alloy. The proven standard KTM mount allows to fix the handlebar in four different positions. 2014 sees the introduction of newly-developed hand guards made of 2-component polymer for more effective hand protection.

Graphics

New, classy graphics with clear lines visually underscore the exacting standards of what KTM deems a true, cutting-edge offroad bike.

Wheels

High-quality, CNC-machined hubs are standard on all KTM wheels. The now black coated spokes increase corrosion resistance and center the new, extremely stable, 7050 aluminum rims from GIANT. Dunlop GEOMAX MX51 tires - provide excellent traction, very precise directional control and a long service life.

Brakes

High-Tech Brembo brakes have always been standard equipment on KTM offroad bikes, and combined with the lightweight Wave discs, they are the ultimate solution in braking technology. In 2014 the XC-W models gain a new master cylinder with a new reservoir, a smaller piston diameter and a new lever with optimized kinematics. Combined with new sinter brake pads (Toyo B169), this makes for another perceptible improvement of front brake performance and action.

Bodywork

Shrouds, airbox cover, front fender, headlight fairing and the headlight have all been restyled for 2014. The KTM designer's focus was to achieve complete ergonomic harmony between rider and bike for a more stable ride and effortless movement on the bike. Adding to the improvements is a high-quality seat foam core to maximize comfort and durability. With the new front fender, the designers omitted ribbing on the inside to reduce mud and dirt buildup while increasing rigidity over the previous component by 50 percent.

Seat

The seat has an improved foam core that ensures even higher stability of the padding.

Airbox

The redesigned airbox offers maximum protection of the air filter against soiling while ensuring maximum airflow for top performance. The new airbox covers are produced in a 2-component process and with new inmould graphics. The left cover's mount and fitment have been improved further to allow an even quicker change of the Twin Air filter which is held more securely with an optimized latch. The filter can still be changed without using tools. In addition, two extra flaps on the cover allow to secure it with bolts if desired.

Specifications

Engine Type

1-cylinder 4-stroke engine, water-cooled

Displacement

349.7 cm³ (21.34 cu in)

Bore

88 mm (3.46 in)

Stroke

7.5 mm (2.264 in)

Starting aid

Kick starter and electric starter

Engine lubrication

Pressure circulation lubrication with two Eaton pumps

Primary transmission

24:73

Final drive

14:52 (13:52)

Cooling

Water cooling, permanent circulation of coolant by water pump

Clutch

DDS Multidisc clutch in oil bath/hydraulically activated

Ignition

Contactless controlled fully electronic ignition with digital ignition adjustment

Frame

Central tube frame made of chrome molybdenum steel tubing

Fork

WP Suspension Up Side Down 4860 MXMA PA

Shock absorber

WP Suspension PDS 5018 DCC

Suspension travel Front

300 mm (11.81 in)

Suspension travel Rear

335 mm (13.19 in)

Brake system

Disc brakes, brake calipers on floating bearings

Brake discs - diameter Front

260 mm (10.24 in)

Brake discs - diameter Rear

220 mm (8.66 in)

Chain

5/8 x 1/4"

Steering head angle

63.5°

Wheelbase

1,482±10 mm (58.35±0.39 in)

Ground clearance unloaded

345 mm (13.58 in)

Seat height unloaded

970 mm (38.19 in)

Total fuel tank capacity, approx.

8.5 l (2.25 US gal) Super unleaded (ROZ 95/RON 95/PON 91)

Weight without fuel, approx.

107 kg (236 lb.)

Price

$9,499


Verdict

Compared to the previous generation, the 2014 model year gained a few improvements which help you get slightly better performances in terms of ride and handling.

The most notable upgrades include the improved brakes and the modified frame, which his now lighter and lower, provding a better handling. The swingarm is also lighter and the chain guide mounts have been strengthened. Moreover the suspensions were also slightly tweaked.