EXC-ellent!
By Martin Craven on 8th Jun 12
FOLLOWING last weeks run-through of KTMs 2013 motocross range after an all-encompassing mega-test during which time I rode no fewer than 19 models (motocross and enduro) in a day and a bit this week Im on more familiar ground, moving on to the extensive enduro range.
The EXC range is even more comprehensive than the motocross, incorporating everything from 125cc two-stroke to 500cc four-stroke and every possible combination in between.
After the ground-breaking changes to the MX bikes, especially the all new 250 SX-F and 450 SX-F models, the enduro range have had comparatively minor tweaks here and there.
These include the new dds clutch system, which guarantees unbeatable reliability and contributes to the narrow engine-size due to its compact rivet-less design.
All engine cases are now high-pressure die-cast for reduced weight and all the EXE models are fitted with a PDS shock and 48ml USD forks.
And just like the MX range, all EXCs come with the newly-developed high-performance SAE4 fork oil, so when I say minor changes, what I really mean is a raft of important changes on top of an already impressive package!
The weather at the test track in Italy was also impressive, with blue skies and lovely sunshine, so after a good and long morning test on the MX track it was all-systems go for the challenging 13km enduro loop.
And what a loop it was, rocks, stream beds, steep descents, and woods.
Everything to test man and machines...
2013 KTM 300 EXC
Design: One-cylinder two-stroke engine, water-cooled, with reed intake and
exhaust control
Displacement: 293cm³
Bore: 72mm
Stroke: 72mm
Starting aid: Kick-starter and electric starter
Transmission: Six-gear, claw shifted
Primary gear: 26:72
Final drive: 14:50 (13:50)
Clutch: Wet multi-disc clutch /
hydraulically operated
Ignition system: Contactless,
controlled, fully-electronic ignition system with digital-ignition timing adjustment, type Kokusan
CHASSIS
Frame: Central tube frame made of chrome molybdenum steel tubing
Forks: WP Suspension upside-down 4860 MXMA PA
Shock absorber: WP Suspension PDS 5018 DCC
Suspension travel: Front 300mm, rear 335mm
Brake system: Disc brakes, brake
calipers on floating bearings
Brake discs diameter: Front 260 mm, rear 220mm
Chain: 5/8 x 1/4”
Steering head angle: 63.5°
Wheel base: 1,482±10 mm
Ground clearance (unloaded): 355mm
Seat height (unloaded): 960mm
Total fuel tank capacity approx: 9.5 l
Fuel: Unleaded premium, mixed with
two-stroke engine oil (1:60)
Weight without fuel: Approx 104 kg
2013 KTM 350 EXC-F
ENGINE
Design: Single-cylinder, 4-stroke,
spark-ignition engine, liquid-cooled
Displacement: 349.7cm³
Bore: 88mm
Stroke: 57.5mm
Starting aid: Kick-starter and electric starter
Engine lubrication: Forced oil lubrication with two Eaton pumps
Primary gear ratio: 24:73
Secondary ratio: 14:52 (13:52)
Cooling system: Liquid-cooling system, continuous circulation of cooling liquid with water-pump
Clutch: Wet multi-disc clutch/ hydraulically operated
Ignition system: Contactless, controlled, fully-electronic ignition system with digital ignition timing adjustment
CHASSIS
Frame: Central tube frame made of chrome molybdenum steel tubing
Forks: WP Suspension Up Side Down 4860 MXMA PA
Shock absorber: WP Suspension PDS 5018 DCC
Suspension travel Front 300mm, rear: 335mm
Brake system: Disc brakes, brake calipers on floating bearings
Brake discs diameter: Front 260mm, rear 220mm
Chain: 5/8 x 1/4”
Steering head angle: 63.5°
Wheelbase: 1,482±10mm
Ground clearance, unloaded: 345 mm
Seat height, unloaded: 970 mm
Total fuel tank capacity, approx: 9 l
Fuel: Unleaded premium (95 RON)
Weight without fuel: Approx: 108.5kg
FOR FULL REPORT AND PICTURES SEE TMX JUNE 8
