KTM 2016 SX-F Four-Stroke Motocross Bikes: FIRST LOOK

Kit Palmer | May 19, 2015

KTM introduced its latest line of SX-F four-stroke motocrossers and, as expected, they are closely related to the most recent versions of the limited edition Factory Editions models that are being currently raced by some of the factory-backed riders on the circuit right now, like Ryan Dungey and Marvin Musquin. They (the 2016 models) are not exactly the same as the 2015 Factory Editions, but pretty darn close, the most obvious differences being the graphics and no orange frames for the 2016s.

The big news here, however, is the new 350 SX-F, which got many of the same Factory Edition touches as the 250 SX-F, including the motor. KTM has never offered a Factory Edition 350 SX-F. From what we gather, all three of the bikes share nearly identical frames and suspension components but with different settings.

KTM claims that the 2016 450 SX-F weighs 224.7 pounds, a little more than a pound more than the new 350 SX-F. The 250 SX-F weighs in at 220.2 pounds.

2016 KTM 250 SX-F Highlights

ENGINE

• The new 250 SX-F engine design is more compact, lighter and provides higher performance throughout the entire range of power

• New engine cases redesigned to centralize the rotating mass of the crankshaft and clutch while reducing overall length

• Completely reworked Keihin Engine Management System with new 44mm throttle body featuring a lightweight direct-connect design

• New electronic Launch Control for efficient starts and multiple engine maps to control the overall power delivery

• New cylinder head combustion chamber geometry, optimized ports, new camshafts, new timing, new finger followers and new valve springs for improved power and reduced weight

• New lightweight forged bridged box-type piston by CP, new shorter connecting rod mated to a new shorter, stiffer crankshaft contribute to a light engine feel and strong power delivery

• New 5-speed transmission features wider gears with a new surface treatment on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th gears along with a special low-friction coating on the shift forks to provide precise and easy shifting

• New “No Dirt” shift lever prevents dirt from fouling the lever joint to ensure proper shifting in any condition

• New CSS (Coil Spring Steel) one-piece clutch that has been completely redesigned for improved oil supply for better cooling, durability and lighter weight

• New super compact and lightweight 1.1lb Lithium-Ion starter battery

• New WP flow optimized radiator design features a substantial improvement in engine cooling

• New exhaust header and new lightweight silencer are both designed to increase power and contribute to mass centralization

CHASSIS

• New lighter Chromoly steel frame provides 20% higher torsional rigidity with 30% less longitudinal stiffness resulting in improved handling and energy absorption

• New smaller, lighter subframe design made with new aluminum profiles

• New lighter swingarm features a revised internal structure to match the new frame characteristics

• New lighter “No Dirt” footpeg design that provides a larger surface area and features a “scraper” to reduce dirt build-up in the hinge

• New CNC machined upper triple clamp featuring a rubber damping system for the new Neken handlebar and ODI lock-on grips

• The advanced WP 4CS (Four Chamber System) Fork has been specifically designed for Motocross and features revised damping settings optimized for the new chassis

• New generation WP shock has been developed in conjunction with the new frame and swingarm architecture including a new linkage/pullrod system

• Super lightweight Galfer Wave rotors, CNC machined hubs, high-end Excel rims fitted with Dunlop GEOMAX MX32 tires are standard equipment

• New airbox and airfilter design offers maximum protection for the engine while ensuring maximum airflow and providing quick “no tools” airfilter changes

• New ergonomics and bodywork centralize mass, improve handling and rider comfort

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine Type: Single cylinder, 4-stroke

Displacement: 249cc

Bore/Stroke: 78.0/52.3mm

Compression Ratio: 14.4:1

Starter/Battery: Electric Starter / 12V, 3Ah

Transmission: 5 gears

Fuel System: Keihin EFI, 44mm throttle body

Lubrication: Pressure lubrication with 2 oil pumps

Primary Ratio: 24:73

Final Drive: 13:50

Cooling: Liquid

Clutch: Wet multi-disc CSS-clutch, Brembo hydraulics

Ignition: Keihin EMS

Frame: Central double-cradle type 25CrMo4 steel

Subframe: Aluminum

Handlebar: Neken, aluminum Ø 28/22mm

Front Suspension: WP USD 4860 MXMA 4CS

Rear Suspension: WP monoshock 5018 BAVP DCC w/linkage

Suspension Travel Front/Rear: 300mm/11.81 in.; 300mm/11.81 in.

Front/Rear Brakes: Disc Brake 260 mm/10.24 in; 220 mm/8.66 in.

Front/Rear Rims: 1.60x 21, 2.15 x 19 Excel

Front/Rear Tires: 80/100-21 in.; 100/90-19 in. Dunlop MX32

Chain: 5/8 x 1/4 in.

Silencer: Aluminum

Steering Head Angle: 26.1º

Triple Clamp Offset: 22mm

Wheelbase: 1,485mm ± 10mm / 58.5 ± 0.4 in.

Ground Clearance: 370mm / 14.6 in.

Seat Height: 960mm / 37.8 in.

Tank Capacity, Approx: 7.2L / 1.9 gal.

Weight (without fuel), Approx: 99.9 kg / 220.2 lbs

2016 KTM 350 SX-F Highlights