2017 KTM 350 EXC-F


The MY17 KTM 350 EXC-F first notable change is the general ergonomics of the bike. First up, the headlight and surround have reverted back to an orange frame around the light, however the headlight can now be removed tool-free. The ‘Dirt Free’ footpegs have been redesigned to not gather mud and now sit 6 mm higher than the SX and SX-F models. If you’re a taller rider or just prefer to sit lower on the bike, a quick changeover can be done.

KTM has redesigned the shift lever to not gather dirt in the elbow of the shifter. Another small, yet clever, feature is that the brake and speedo cable have been encorporated together running in a twin tube from the head light down to the fork tube for a little extra protection.

Brembo brakes are fitted along with a Brembo hydraulic clutch. These components are what you expect with any KTM and they too have made changes for the 2017 bike with a new rear brake caliper. The peddle length has also been extended, while the caliper piston has been reduced to give the rider more precise rear brake action.


The fuel tank is again a white/opaque 8.5 litre tank, taking the guessing out of how much fuel you have left. The fuel tank is also fitted with an integrated fuel pump and fuel level sensor as well. Another small adjustment is the fuel-line connector that has been turned 90 degrees to help protect against damage.

The 2017 KTM 350 EXC-F shares the similar design to the 250 EXC-F engine, yet has vastly more power. The DOHC engine itself is 1.9 kgs lighter than the previous year’s powerplant and features – electric start with a new compact lithium ion battery, cutting edge Keihin Engine management system with electronic fuel injection and new 42 mm throttle body.


The new engine management system and throttle body contribute heavily to the reason the bike is so impressive to ride. The throttle response is great right off the bottom giving you the power you need with the flick of the wrist. Adding to the EMS, you can purchase a Traction Control engine mapping switch for an additional US$ 189.99, giving you a total of four different maps.

The 350 EXC-F puts its power to the ground via a six-speed transmission and shifting gears is made easy with low friction coating on the shift forks and a gear sensor syncs up the engines power curve to the selected gear as well as the track surface conditions.