2023 KTM 300XC vs 2021 KTM 350XXF Back to Back! My two favorite size 2-stroke and 4-stroke dirt bikes ridden back to back on the Briarcliff MX C-track! Thoughts on each bike....
300XC: This bike is all about the engine. Throttle body fuel injection (TBI) has brought a new level of low to mid power and partial throttle roll on torque feel to this all new 300cc 2-stroke engine. Responsive in a classical perfectly jetted carb like 2-stroke power yet more refined and controllable with (2) Maps that noticeably change the power character with a push of a button. Has 58 hp in a 2-stroke engine ever felt this easy yet FUN to ride? This is the engine that might convert some die hard carb 2-stroke riders to finally make the switch to fuel injection and give up jetting. It is also the engine that might get some long time 4-stroke riders back to their 2-stroke roots. Yea it is that good. Negatives? The chassis is firm and the suspension is new so both needs to break in but today at 4.3 hours run time the bike is feeling more planted in the chop. For now lower fork pressure, opening up the clickers, and putting on the broken in seat from my 22.5 450 Factory Edition brings me enough comfort.
350XXF: This Kailub Russell 350XCF with WP Pro Components suspension, full Akrapovic exhaust, and myKTM connectivity unit has been my favorite 350 I've ridden to date. The first thing I notice when jumping back on the 4-stroke is engine vibration and engine braking. Next is the inertia of the engine in corners - just a more weighty feel overall. The WP Pro suspension on this bike feels very planted with a plush and controlled movement. The Akrapovic full exhaust is quiet and combined with the more more responsive engine map with minimal engine braking all done with the myKTM connectivity unit gives the bike a freer feel more low to mid response yet pulls all the way up top. For me the 350 is the best overall balance of Power/Weight/Handling in a 4-stroke dirt bike and perhaps the best Vet rider moto bike available today. Negatives? Why can't this bike come from KTM with spring forks and a bladder in the rear shock (or low friction seals in the rear shock)? Lots of engine vibration.
I will do more of these 300XC vs 350XXF back to backs soon with lap times. For now no clear winner just two very different feeling bikes and the classic age old which is better question: 2-stroke or 4-stroke?
My initial ride review of the '23 300XC:
• 2023 KTM 300XC First R...
My 2nd moto ride of my '23 300XC:
• 2023 KTM 300XC Review ...
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