2025 KTM 350XCF SIngletrack Trail Ride Part 2

I've been asked many times about the slow technical trail ride capability of my new 2025 KTM 350XCF. This is part 2 of a short tighter more technical trail loop I set up this time trying to go a little faster and mixing in a few more open trail sections to see how the bike would work for me at a little quick pace. I did not stall the bike though kept a finger on the clutch the whole time. I think lower gearing (maybe a 13T countershafter sprocket vs the stock 14/50 combo) and a fan would help a lot with low speed riding. I will go ride a motocross track tomorrow with this bike. As I have said before this bike just might be the most versatile 4-stroke dirt bike!
Here is a video explaining how I dial back the power using the CUO...
• KTM Connectivity Unit ...
The 2025 KTM 350XCF might just be the best Do it All 4-stroke dirt bike...
• Best Do it All 4-Strok...
350's are such a great combination of Power/Weight/Handling and this latest 350 engine in the updated 2025 KTM chassis with new WP spring forks does not disappoint! The latest 350 engine has stronger low to mid power compared to the KR350 and still pulls forever on top and both of the stock EFI maps run clean and crisp. The complete Akrapovic exhaust system on the 25 350XCF is quieter, lighter, pulls strong, and has a spark arrester too. With the Connectivity Unit Offroad it is easy to dial in the power character of the 350XCF. For woods riding I dial back the power and throttle response using the Gravel/Wet base power map. In the Advance settings option I minimize throttle response, minimize engine braking, and maximize Traction Control. This combination really smoothes out the initial throttle response making the 350XCF easier to ride on tight trails. Minimizing engine braking frees up the chassis and gives the bike a "lighter" feel in motion. At the MX track I can use the CUO to turn up the throttle response and use the Sand/Dry base map for a little more power feel. The CUO offers the option to change the engine power and character.
The updated WP spring forks are impressive! The rear of the bike has more comfort too with the updated frame along with linkage and shock changes though still not as compliant as the KR350 chassis/frame on the chop and sharp inputs. This could be the first Austrian bike I ride with the stock suspension.

[@jameswampler3135]

Put a Rekluse in that thing......total game changer in the tight stuff

[@mxengineer1]

Yes - very tempting to try one on this bike.

[@hometownguy7184]

Hey man Love your content. How do you feel this bike would compare to a beta 390?

[@mxengineer1]

I've ridden a 2023 Beta 390 Race Edition and a 2023 Beta 390RR. The Beta 390's have a more full flywheel feel to the engine - little slower RPM build and the engine runs really well at low RPM. The suspension is woods focused setting so too soft for even slow Vet moto but works great in the woods (spend the extra money for Race Edition to get the KYB suspension). The 390 Beta is heavier than the KTM 350XCF and you can feel this weight statically and in motion. The KTM has a lighter feel statically and in motion and makes more peak power and the engine revs more quickly. The 350XCF suspension and chassis feel firmer overall.

[@vegasace1767]

@@mxengineer1If you were only riding tight technical single track, which would you prefer? I mentioned on one of your previous videos that I’ve been on the fence about the Beta and a KTM. I’m in the Pacific Northwest and wonder if this new KTM could replace my 250 2t. Seems like such a well rounded bike. Have a bad case of paralysis by analysis.

[@mxengineer1]

@@vegasace1767 For tight technical single track I prefer a 300 smoker (I have a TX300 and Beta 300 Race Edition). For a 4-stroke on tight single track I would give a slight edge to the Beta 390 Race Edition over the stock 25 KTM 350XCF: the Beta has a softer more woods focused suspension setting and the engine has excellent low rpm stall resistance. If you put a Rekluse and fan on the '25 KTM 350XCF the lighter weight and fully tunable power with the CUO would give it the edge. Nice to have choices!

[@markmusic1808]

You're having too much fun...

[@mxengineer1]

I am really enjoying this new 350XCF!

[@jmkistler]

Are you riding public trails in this video or private?

[@mxengineer1]

Private trails

[@johnkling3537]

Four banger on the combo woods loop 🚀 want more wheelies 🍀

[@mxengineer1]

Wheelies are fun!

[@Travis_125]

Love your vids but wish you would upload at 4k. ✌🏻