Have the 2019 350 six days and I couldn’t be happier, such a light and agile bike but does not lack in power, highly recommend to lighter/ smaller riders 👍🏽
You absolutely dont need or will get bored of the power from even a stock 350EXCF if anyones worrying about that part of it.. It makes my fully modded & tuned ‘15 WR250R feel slow honestly.. and my 350 is still stock power wise by choice really. I like the stock exhaust and i will just get the Vortex ECU for it eventually and do it right the first time.. I have a FMF powercore 4 slip-on sitting in the garage. I ended up taking it off and putting the stock one back on. It was too loud and didnt really give any extra power with the stock ecu. Plus the stock exhaust isn’t really much heavier vs the fmf for someone like me who trail rides with friends and maybe an occasional HS.. My bike is a 2020 350EXCF (NA region) so it comes with the 02 sensor. I recently bought the 02 sensor elimination kit which is supposed to help make the run better, especially with the aftermarket ECU installed. Haven’t put in the dongle part yet, so I haven’t removed the 02 sensor yet.. It was cheap($20) so if i dont like it i can always put it back if i want too or if they figure out tuning using the 02 sensor or something like that..
Great review I been riding street bike for the past 2 years I went through 7 motorcycle already Never did off road. Just got Honda crf 300 2022 I felt it have no power it’s to small for my frame I’m 6 ft 220 pound 45 years old Do you think I could handle the Ktm 500 6 days or is it way too much for me I’m riding the Ducati peak pike V4. And I love it I’m afraid to be to much bike for the ktm 500 6 days. Unfortunately I can’t test ride it to find out before I buy it The dealer have both ktm 350 and ktm 500 please advise I need help making my decision
how is the power on tight trails is it to much,is it manageable or is it perfect. I definitely want the 500 on the street but most of the trails were i live are tight woods trails were the 350 might be better. i dont care about the extra weight but can you manage the 500 on tight trails?
@@JoeGeez100 You might actually find the 500 easier to ride than the 350. Torque down low means you can attack stuff at much more reasonable pace and RPM and the bike just rolls over everything.
@@JoeGeez100 The 350 is FAR easier to ride in tight trails than a 500. If you do any technical terrain you want the 350. Otherwise the 500 is just about perfect for the average trail rider not doing anything too hardcore but still rides a lot of street.
Good review Grant ,I have a couple of 450 s and bought a 350 recently they are better than most people think ,very tractable and flexible motor that’s still quite nimble it’s a keeper.
If you grew up on two strokes, the 350s feel more like home. Don’t forget, Antonio Cairolli won multiple MXGP championships on that motor design. Also Allessi and Short got several holeshots on em. If you’re a heavier, lazier, hate shifting and use open Highways often, the 500s the way to go.
I'm gonna go with the 350, I grew up on 2 strokes and I remember jumping onto big bore bikes and it felt like I was holding on for dear life - bike was trying to escape out from under me! shot out of a rocket - NOT really much fun. Riding the hell out of a slow bike (light, quick) is my sweet spot.
The 350 is anything but a slow bike especially when uncorked. It will go like hell when you want it to but also push through dense forest like a bulldozer. I've had my 2018 EXC-F 350 SixDays for almost three years now and it's the best bike I've ever ridden. Since I was so used to carbureted 2-strokes, I found the initial power hit of the EFI 4-stroke to be a bit much. I'm used to it now but still ordered a Throttle Tamer. Having instantaneous power when you need to get the front wheel in the air is a different world.
@@tommyt9519 I have a 2020 KTM 350EXCF and my first KTM at least which i still have is a 2013 KTM 200XCW. Theyre both amazing bikes. Prob the best 4-stroke enduro and 2-stroke enduro bike for each. The one thing you’re not going to get with the 350 vs the 500excf is that 80mph highway speed cruising on the 500. If that matters to you, the 350s 6th gear I think is too short and could of been like an OD gear and the 350 would be the best bike vs 500 hands down.. The 350excf stock is an absolute beast. I still have the stock exhaust bc i like quiet and with the other mods its even better which is awesome lol. Pulls up 3rd gear, from a roll, no problem..
@@mxracingunlimitedltd7784 Rough farm-access roads to the rocky jungle hills here in Central Thailand. No street riding. Stock gearing 14-52 which I'll be changing to 13-52 since I never need to go very fast. Stock exhaust with the endcap baffle plate knocked out, European spec (Euro map ECU, no intake reeds). I'm adding a Fastway spark arrestor end cap for better flow and a Dobeck piggy-back injection tuner to richen it to compensate for the exhaust. Both of these should bring the engine temps down. I'm running Evans coolant and a full Samco hose kit (no thermostat) but the bike is still getting too hot for my liking when trail-blazing up long, difficult, rocky climbs. I'd love to have a 200XCW!!! If I could find one here in Thailand I'd buy it immediately. I love the 350 thumper but a 200 2-stroke would probably be better suited for the tricky jungle hill stuff.
Good comparison the only thing I think you could of explained (and without confusing the viewers) is the different models with the classes. For example the more aggressive 350 XC-F larger fuel tank, tighter gearing, 18inch rear wheel, air fork so a cross between the SX-f and EXC. Aside from that I have owned and run the 2019 KTM 500 six days and switched the KTM 350 XC-f and your comments of bikes being somewhat similar but different couldn't be better;)
The EXC, XCFW, & XCFs all have the 18” rear wheels. I thought all the 350 models besides the SXF had the same gas tank as the EXC/XCF, not sure. Plus i think just the 1st & 2nd gears are different between the EXC/XCFW & the XCF’s. The SXF is a 5 speed with the closest ratio gears. All the 2017+ 350s have the same gearbox and the gears can be swapped around, you can even add the 6th gear to an SXF I’ve heard from some ktm guy’s that know they’re stuff. The Air Forks definitely dont come on the PDS bikes like the EXC & XCFW. If the XCF has the linkage then yeah i think that has the air forks similar to SXF air forks and linkage rear suspension setup..
How did you get the 2 inchs mate. Im 5'6 and looking at the 500 but gonna need those inches haha was there an option to get more if you needed it? Thanks mate!
I did some rockyclimbs and drop offs on the 500 in Wales, honestly perfect for getting anywhere, sure if I was racing I'd go 350, dual sport or destroying terrain the 500
Is it just the camera angle or does the 350, as you point it out, look bigger then the 500,as you point it out in your video, or are you backwards in your description?
@@UPSHIFT_ONLINE What do you change it with on the 2020 bikes? I cannot find a replacement tail kit for a 2020 yet. Any advice would be appreciated to get rid of that thing!
Considering how great these bikes are, I cannot believe the 2020s still come with these fender inserts. My 2015 ate the whole thing almost immediately. Major design flaw when the rear wheel eats the tail-light assembly. KTM engineers? Should be smarter than that!
I bought the 2020 500 exc a few months ago, and my buddy bought the 2019 450 exc at the same time. First proper ride off road and they were both snapped within half an hour.
I'm 51, looking for first dual-sport after 30 years of street riding. Going "cheap" with a DRZ400 and spending $2k on upgrades is one option. Don't blow up the bank account, figure out my street/off-road interests, then buy what a really want in a year or so. The Honda CRF 450L is similarly priced to the 350 EXC-F, and requires another $2k in upgrades to make it the bike it should be. Now I see this 350, bit more expensive than the Honda, and it also needs another $2k in upgrades. Maybe more or less upgrades, just trying to get a sense of pricing when all is said and done, because I need gear as well and that's a big chunk of change. I guess this is true for all bikes when trying to cater to a broad audience. I'd really like to buy something and enjoy it without doing a ton of upgrades before mile 1. Is the 350 overkill for Vermont dirt roads and double-track, some light single-track? I don't want something that's going to want to throw me off with every mistake but I also don't want to be grumpy in a year when I start complaining about lack of power. Any and all feedback appreciated during research time, I want to pull the trigger soon :-)
What did you end up buying? I bought a DRZ which I absolutely love so far. Can imagine a racebred dirt bike like these EXCs would be awesome, but so far the DRZ is more than enough for my needs!
@@JohannesDalenMC Too many close calls by myself in the woods. Heavy, underpowered, tall gearing, oversprung rear suspension. I really do prefer street and dirt roads.
Would you suggest the 350 for an intermediate level rider? I don't want a bike where I can easily just flip it, but still have good power for lifting it for a few wheelies
Published weights are only 2 pounds off. The difference feels greaterthan that when picking it up and while riding it. We haven't put them on a scale to tell you exactly though.
So much of that would depend on what kind of riding you are doing. Wide open desert, probably the 500. Technical single track, probably the 350. But there is a lot that can go into that decision beyond those blunt bullet points.
wow!! what timing for me on this video~! this week I am going to buy the 2022 350 ,but figured I would see if i could find any videos were they would compare the 500 to the 350.And what do I see, you guys with one of my favorite riders of all time Grant Langston!! I do think I am going to go with the 350,just because are group of riders are doing more trail and single track riding,can always gear it different if a guy is to do any longer road trips~! I will be updating the tires,pipe,and taking the reeds out of the air box,and perhaps reflash,so the 350 should be a nice bike to rip!! thanks for the video was really helpful..new subscriber...cheers~!
@@mxracingunlimitedltd7784 Yah did everything to it you have mentioned, things a beast, also ended up buying a 2022 300 xc for single track which I love as well..and also was very luck and ended up with a 2022 890R duke for the street.been loving my KTM's there hitting it out of the park, very happy with them all.
I have an fe 350. I'm thinking about getting a 501 just so I'm not reving the piss out of it on the hwy. I ride to the trails. Sometimes I ride really far. Thoughts?
That is a consideration for sure. The biggest factor in the RPM range on pavement is your gearing. Finding that happy medium between a tall enough gear for the roads but not too tall for singletrack is the key. You may need to experiment with it. You might be surprised with the outcome.
I have a 2021 500 exc-f on hold... It should be mine this week... I cant wait to no longer want more power... My KLX250 dont cut it no matter how dialed in it is for single track.. I always want more power..
@@UPSHIFT_ONLINE Yeah its sick I got my whole 1hr on it and now its out for the first service and Factory connection is doing the suspension so I got a tease but we have snow and ice right now any how.. It feels more like a 2 stroke for top end power but still had some good grunt with my limited time with it I was starting to feel out pivot turns. I just have to use some caution if I nail it not like my 250 lol...
So many people are changing out the headlight all together on the offroad bikes that it's not a value add for most. Might as well keep the price from going up anymore than it has to. Street bikes operate on much different rules too.
How do these bikes perform on the road.? I hear the 500 vibrates pretty bad on the road at the foot pegs and bars. Is the 350 pretty smooth on the road?
At the end of the day these are single cylinder dirtbikes first and foremost. They simply are not tuned for street performance. They are intended to get you from trailhead to trailhead on pavement legally. They can be a bit buzzy, but that's the nature of what they are. It's a game of compromise.
Yeah it will work fine. It will be a little less snappy that it would for a guy weighing 185, but it won't fail you by any means. If you ride hard and climb hills etc, the 500 would certainly be a better choice.
Nice riding. My disappointments: 1. Air forks. 2. No radiator fan. 3. Very uncomfortable seat 4. Oil pump gears needed replacement in past years- not sure about 2020. 5. Muffler isn't great. 6. Could use better clutch 5. Needs disc guard (front and back) 6. Needs skid plate. 7. Needs tire for off-road. For $11,399 it should come ready to go. I should not have pour another $1,500+ into it to get it ride ready.
In some of those cases, the governments has a say. In others, if they did install those parts people would be upset that the bike costs even more or that they don't like the parts and they have to replace them anyhow. Thankfully, we have a solid aftermarket making great options.
@@UPSHIFT_ONLINE I disagree. Then why don't you see this much on street bikes sans perhaps aftermarket exhaust. That part is regulated and DOT tires. So you are suggesting that people would complain about getting higher quality parts? That doesn't make a whole lot of sense. But ok, going with your logic then charge what its worth, about $6k. My main point is that it is both wasteful and abnoxious to charge consumers a premium price of about 12k, then we have to throw away stock parts and also buy new ones. The auto industry is more highly related yet every part on a new Lexus and the finished stock product is high quality worthy of the premium price.
We have had no issues with them dead stock off the the showroom floor. Fuel them up, ride themand do maintenance. And of course there are a ton of options in the aftermarket to make them even better.
UPSHIFT ONLINE Brought home a brand new ktm 500 exc-f and within 4 miles of riding on the road the bike stalled as soon as pulled in the clutch to down shift when approaching a turn. Next day same thing. Multiple times. Put 35 miles on the bike so today I changed the oil. I turned up the idle screw and that seem to help some. Then when idling for maybe a 30 seconds the engine light came on. That was yesterday. Today less stalling for sure but when turning the bike around on the trail today the check engine light came on. I’m assuming because it had been idling. If I shut the bike off the check engine light will go away. Any thoughts?
Does anyone knows if the engines on this bikes are durable? Or you just need to repair the engine like every 2 to 3 years using it once per weekend going out with friends kind of use?
Every bike has different maintenance intervals and how long an engine lasts has a lot to do with doing proper maintenance. Replacing a piston is normal maintenance at a certain number of hours etc. KTM does do a good job of building quality motorcycles though.
They eliminated the 450 EXC-F from the line in 2020. Just the 350 and 500. They are still making the 450 XC-F for racing etc. But they didn't need the 450 and 500 in the EXC-F lineup.
UPSHIFT ONLINE Yes I know. But I’m surprised. I’ve owned a 17 500 and now have a 19 450exc. They are very different riding bikes. Everyone assumes the 450 is so close to the 500 so they just go with the 500. For me I prefer the 450.
I've just sold a 2008 450 XCRW and a 16 500 exc, both very nice bikes, the XCRW was a premium single track/ tour of Idaho T1 Bike!!!!! I'll buy a lightly used 2020 500 this fall, and ride a street legal 350xc until then. The 500 will be for the sand and single track(ya, cx Rekluse rocks here), and the 350xc everywhere else!!!!!!!!(racing, outrunning C19, etc), the 350 just keeps reving, and is a hoot to ride, a 500 almost feels tame, lol. It's almost like the 300 vs 250 smoker debate, yes the 300 is amazing, but the faster reving 250 smoker is more playful, the 500 vs 350, I think the gap is even larger than the 300/250 thang!!
Brad Lu Yes I agree. I had a 500exc and at the same time my race bike was a 17 350xc-f. The xcf was a beast of a bike. Now I’m on a Beta 200rr and the 450exc. Good combo in my opinion 🤙🏽
Considering the excf 350 and the WR250F. I have 10+ years of experience riding and racing ROAD BIKES but have not done a single day on a motocross/dual sport bike... heart says KTM all the way but brain reminds me of ppl skipping smaller bikes when starting at the track and then crashing lots before they learn anything. I will be doing 99% trails so not much riding on the road at all. Would you please tell my heart to shut the hell up?
Haha... both are excellent bikes. The WR would be a bit more tame and frankly less work on the maintenance front to get things going offroad. It would be a long while before the WR would not do something you needed it to do. And by then you will likely need a new bike.
UPSHIFT ONLINE - totally agree! KTM does not have the market cornered on trail riding fun. Great bikes but value for fun is very different than value for performance. No new’ish rider will ever ring the performance out of the KTM till they drop a bike on the trail say 40 times working at pushing the skills to make them a better rider. And maintaining that high performance bike isn’t worth it to any new rider in my opinion. Get a simple and totally fun carb bike first you can turn your own wrenches on for all maintenance cause that’s part of the journey IMHO.
When will KTM fix the floppy rear fender assembly. It’s definitely an afterthought and not a bespoke piece for the street version. My friends broke off after a few rides! The only thing those hand guards are good for is keeping the flies off your gloves. Why bother!? AGM battery over a lithium any day. God forbid your radiator fan motor fails on the trail due to a deep water crossing, which seems common. Nothing like being stranded deep in the backcountry with an overheating motor because you can’t run without the fan. Seen it happen. Not a pleasant experience. Seems to be a fairly common issue. Thanks but no thanks I’ll stick with my 20 year old Yamaha WR400 and my 2003 YZ450. Both street plated and rock solid. No fans necessary. Why does a new bike need so many mods and why so many “upgrades and Improvements”? Orange is just a colour. Blue is a state of mind.
Well the floppy rear fender thing is government mandated from the factory. The license plate and certain reflectors have to be in certain places on the bike for it to meet DOT regs so they make it bare bones and very easy to remove for the end consumer. As consumers demand ever growing levels of performance and lower weight, things like fans make that possible. Fortunately you have your WR400 and YZ450 so you can sidestep all the newfangled contraptions out there. ;) Thanks for watching anyhow!
The 350 has some pep to it. If you have no riding experience, it might not be a good choice. If you do have at least some riding experience, it might be a bit of a challenge at first but it would be a bike to grow into.
UPSHIFT ONLINE Brilliant ! Thanks for the feedback. The last time i went on a bike was about 10 years ago lol. I had a yamaha yz 250 99 model. It was an animal. Is the reliability of the excf350 good and low maintenance or are there better bike choices you’d recommend ? Thanks.
Number one upgrade ECU number to upgrade get an ECU number three get an ECU government policy has caused these bikes that are a 500 cc four stroke to put out 250 cc four stroke power which is horrendous hard to want even pick up one of these if you didn’t have that option.
Yeah... The 500 is great for road use. But nobody needs that power for the woods. I've got a 2018 500 exc and I wish I could also own a 150xc (spectacular bike even for a heavy dude)
Definitely do not agree with this statement. There are places and riders that suit the 500 very well and there are places and riders that suit the 350 very well. Pick the right tool for the job.
@@UPSHIFT_ONLINE Like I said. 500cc is for longer trips Like Baja race, Dakar. I never saw 500cc on Romaniacs from Red Bull or very few riders have it but their are masochist.
Why make people choose between these two bikes? Why not just make a 450cc street legal KTM and get the best of everything? This having to choose is a bit annoying to say the least.
KTM SUCKS ! I bought my 2018 500 exc and it was the best enduro you could buy at the time . BUT if you buy a KTM you will have to keep buying and new one every year . Because the just keep getting better and better every year .
Entire tail section shaking like shit when you hit bum. KTM should make it tough and sturdy. Those number plate bolts will get loose eventually drop without you realise it.
What a waste of time. You said nothing but advertising shit. Lithium battery. Who cares. That was done years ago. You spoke nothing of the power delivery.. is it linear. It torquey.? Flame outs ? Gyroscopic effect. Differences ? Seriously.
@@UPSHIFT_ONLINE Those bikes are not dual sport ,there are enduro. If the bikes are not intended for racing then the manufacturer should not lie and say "ready to race". I do not attack the product , only KTM.
It’s an EXC... not a XC. Where are you racing a dual sport? If you are, there are not many dual sports you can buy as set up to be competitive out of the box like the KTMs. I would go as far as saying none. And I’m not even a KTM guy, but they deserve credit where it’s due.
Calin Florin so much wrong with your comment 1. Define “ready to race” 2. What’s stopping you from racing these bikes in stock form? 3. These are in fact dual sport bikes (they’re road legal) 4. “Ready to Race” is a fucking slogan, don’t get your panties in a bunch
Unfortunately, OEM's are rarely going to put anything more than they have to into things like high end lighting. Thankfully, we have a strong after market that makes all sorts of great options to fit your needs.
Sure. It will have enough power to get you around but shouldn't be hard to handle unless you are reckless. You will want to get the suspension sprung properly for your weight and capability... which is true for 90% of all riders.
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Have the 2019 350 six days and I couldn’t be happier, such a light and agile bike but does not lack in power, highly recommend to lighter/ smaller riders 👍🏽
There is a lot to be said for that. And you are right, the 350 produces quite a bit of horsepower. We rarely feel like we need more.
You absolutely dont need or will get bored of the power from even a stock 350EXCF if anyones worrying about that part of it..
It makes my fully modded & tuned ‘15 WR250R feel slow honestly.. and my 350 is still stock power wise by choice really.
I like the stock exhaust and i will just get the Vortex ECU for it eventually and do it right the first time..
I have a FMF powercore 4 slip-on sitting in the garage. I ended up taking it off and putting the stock one back on.
It was too loud and didnt really give any extra power with the stock ecu. Plus the stock exhaust isn’t really much heavier vs the fmf for someone like me who trail rides with friends and maybe an occasional HS..
My bike is a 2020 350EXCF (NA region) so it comes with the 02 sensor.
I recently bought the 02 sensor elimination kit which is supposed to help make the run better, especially with the aftermarket ECU installed.
Haven’t put in the dongle part yet, so I haven’t removed the 02 sensor yet..
It was cheap($20) so if i dont like it i can always put it back if i want too or if they figure out tuning using the 02 sensor or something like that..
Great review
I been riding street bike for the past 2 years I went through 7 motorcycle already
Never did off road. Just got Honda crf 300 2022
I felt it have no power it’s to small for my frame I’m 6 ft 220 pound 45 years old
Do you think I could handle the Ktm 500 6 days or is it way too much for me
I’m riding the Ducati peak pike V4. And I love it
I’m afraid to be to much bike for the ktm 500 6 days. Unfortunately I can’t test ride it to find out before I buy it
The dealer have both ktm 350 and ktm 500 please advise
I need help making my decision
@@mxracingunlimitedltd7784 .bju h
I opted for the 500 because the weight is like 2 lbs more and the price was only 200 more.. I ride trail to trail and I’m loving it so far
how is the power on tight trails is it to much,is it manageable or is it perfect. I definitely want the 500 on the street but most of the trails were i live are tight woods trails were the 350 might be better. i dont care about the extra weight but can you manage the 500 on tight trails?
@@JoeGeez100 You might actually find the 500 easier to ride than the 350. Torque down low means you can attack stuff at much more reasonable pace and RPM and the bike just rolls over everything.
@@JoeGeez100 The 350 is FAR easier to ride in tight trails than a 500. If you do any technical terrain you want the 350. Otherwise the 500 is just about perfect for the average trail rider not doing anything too hardcore but still rides a lot of street.
Best bike I’ve bought in a long time 500EXC-F. Have also a 2020 300 XC W tpi but the EXC500F is awesome!
Nice quiver. Right tool for any job.
M P what is the better one ?
I agree - I have a 500 also and would love to pick up a 300 xcw... soon.
Have you changed the rear tail light assembly yet?
What year 500EXCF? Id also love to hear how you compare the 2020 300XCW TPI bike to the 500!
Good review Grant ,I have a couple of 450 s and bought a 350 recently they are better than most people think ,very tractable and flexible motor that’s still quite nimble it’s a keeper.
Congrats on the new ride. Enjoy it!
If you grew up on two strokes, the 350s feel more like home.
Don’t forget, Antonio Cairolli won multiple MXGP championships on that motor design. Also Allessi and Short got several holeshots on em.
If you’re a heavier, lazier, hate shifting and use open Highways often, the 500s the way to go.
Agreed!
I'm gonna go with the 350, I grew up on 2 strokes and I remember jumping onto big bore bikes and it felt like I was holding on for dear life - bike was trying to escape out from under me! shot out of a rocket - NOT really much fun. Riding the hell out of a slow bike (light, quick) is my sweet spot.
The 350 is an excellent machine. Enjoy it!
The 350 is anything but a slow bike especially when uncorked. It will go like hell when you want it to but also push through dense forest like a bulldozer. I've had my 2018 EXC-F 350 SixDays for almost three years now and it's the best bike I've ever ridden. Since I was so used to carbureted 2-strokes, I found the initial power hit of the EFI 4-stroke to be a bit much. I'm used to it now but still ordered a Throttle Tamer. Having instantaneous power when you need to get the front wheel in the air is a different world.
@@tommyt9519 I have a 2020 KTM 350EXCF and my first KTM at least which i still have is a 2013 KTM 200XCW. Theyre both amazing bikes. Prob the best 4-stroke enduro and 2-stroke enduro bike for each.
The one thing you’re not going to get with the 350 vs the 500excf is that 80mph highway speed cruising on the 500. If that matters to you, the 350s 6th gear I think is too short and could of been like an OD gear and the 350 would be the best bike vs 500 hands down..
The 350excf stock is an absolute beast. I still have the stock exhaust bc i like quiet and with the other mods its even better which is awesome lol. Pulls up 3rd gear, from a roll, no problem..
@@tommyt9519 what type of riding do you normally do? Any street riding? What gearing are you running?
@@mxracingunlimitedltd7784 Rough farm-access roads to the rocky jungle hills here in Central Thailand. No street riding. Stock gearing 14-52 which I'll be changing to 13-52 since I never need to go very fast. Stock exhaust with the endcap baffle plate knocked out, European spec (Euro map ECU, no intake reeds). I'm adding a Fastway spark arrestor end cap for better flow and a Dobeck piggy-back injection tuner to richen it to compensate for the exhaust. Both of these should bring the engine temps down. I'm running Evans coolant and a full Samco hose kit (no thermostat) but the bike is still getting too hot for my liking when trail-blazing up long, difficult, rocky climbs. I'd love to have a 200XCW!!! If I could find one here in Thailand I'd buy it immediately. I love the 350 thumper but a 200 2-stroke would probably be better suited for the tricky jungle hill stuff.
350 for dirt riding and exploring nearby trails. 500 for big off road adventure and exploring, trips down the baja, Backcountry discovery routes, 500.
Pretty much sums it up.
Thanks Grant you’re a legend!
Grant,
I’m so glad I got my 2020 exc-f it is making me a better rider.
GL it sounds so much better when you say "shassy" for chassis. Thanks for the review and WTS!
Bahahaha... yes. 100%
Good comparison the only thing I think you could of explained (and without confusing the viewers) is the different models with the classes. For example the more aggressive 350 XC-F larger fuel tank, tighter gearing, 18inch rear wheel, air fork so a cross between the SX-f and EXC.
Aside from that I have owned and run the 2019 KTM 500 six days and switched the KTM 350 XC-f and your comments of bikes being somewhat similar but different couldn't be better;)
The EXC, XCFW, & XCFs all have the 18” rear wheels. I thought all the 350 models besides the SXF had the same gas tank as the EXC/XCF, not sure.
Plus i think just the 1st & 2nd gears are different between the EXC/XCFW & the XCF’s.
The SXF is a 5 speed with the closest ratio gears.
All the 2017+ 350s have the same gearbox and the gears can be swapped around, you can even add the 6th gear to an SXF I’ve heard from some ktm guy’s that know they’re stuff.
The Air Forks definitely dont come on the PDS bikes like the EXC & XCFW.
If the XCF has the linkage then yeah i think that has the air forks similar to SXF air forks and linkage rear suspension setup..
On my 2nd 500..! Power to weight ratio is unreal. Lowered 2 inchs im 5'/8" perfect...!
Good stuff! Enjoy your new ride.
How did you get the 2 inchs mate. Im 5'6 and looking at the 500 but gonna need those inches haha was there an option to get more if you needed it? Thanks mate!
Great review, thanks for that. What I'd like to see is a 300 vs 350 comparison, why someone would buy one over the other. Cheers
Pretty obv, 300 for dirt use only and 350 if you want a plate and can handle the pretty big performance difference
GL is the man. I'd like to see him do more reviews!
He has been a good friend to Upshift. We hope to do more with him for sure.
@@UPSHIFT_ONLINE awesome news 👏
I did some rockyclimbs and drop offs on the 500 in Wales, honestly perfect for getting anywhere, sure if I was racing I'd go 350, dual sport or destroying terrain the 500
Very reasonable rational. Thank you for watching.
I’m going with the 500 but only because I’ll be adding a timbersled kit and feel that extra power will be useful..
The 500 is nice to have on the Timber Sled.
Is it just the camera angle or does the 350, as you point it out, look bigger then the 500,as you point it out in your video, or are you backwards in your description?
It's just the angle and the ground they were sitting on was not very flat.
Wonderful bikes but that rear taillight sure flaps in the wind!
Yes it does. One of the first things we change on our bikes.
@@UPSHIFT_ONLINE What do you change it with on the 2020 bikes? I cannot find a replacement tail kit for a 2020 yet. Any advice would be appreciated to get rid of that thing!
Considering how great these bikes are, I cannot believe the 2020s still come with these fender inserts. My 2015 ate the whole thing almost immediately. Major design flaw when the rear wheel eats the tail-light assembly. KTM engineers? Should be smarter than that!
I bought the 2020 500 exc a few months ago, and my buddy bought the 2019 450 exc at the same time. First proper ride off road and they were both snapped within half an hour.
@robert milligan the government has a lot of say in how the license plate is positioned on a production bike these days.
I'm 51, looking for first dual-sport after 30 years of street riding. Going "cheap" with a DRZ400 and spending $2k on upgrades is one option. Don't blow up the bank account, figure out my street/off-road interests, then buy what a really want in a year or so. The Honda CRF 450L is similarly priced to the 350 EXC-F, and requires another $2k in upgrades to make it the bike it should be. Now I see this 350, bit more expensive than the Honda, and it also needs another $2k in upgrades. Maybe more or less upgrades, just trying to get a sense of pricing when all is said and done, because I need gear as well and that's a big chunk of change. I guess this is true for all bikes when trying to cater to a broad audience. I'd really like to buy something and enjoy it without doing a ton of upgrades before mile 1. Is the 350 overkill for Vermont dirt roads and double-track, some light single-track? I don't want something that's going to want to throw me off with every mistake but I also don't want to be grumpy in a year when I start complaining about lack of power. Any and all feedback appreciated during research time, I want to pull the trigger soon :-)
What did you end up buying? I bought a DRZ which I absolutely love so far. Can imagine a racebred dirt bike like these EXCs would be awesome, but so far the DRZ is more than enough for my needs!
@@JohannesDalenMC I got the WR250R and I'm totally not into it, selling.
@@relaxedguy Interesting, too bad you didn’t like it. Not into the bike or offroad riding?
@@JohannesDalenMC Too many close calls by myself in the woods. Heavy, underpowered, tall gearing, oversprung rear suspension. I really do prefer street and dirt roads.
@@relaxedguy I see, too bad it didn’t work out. Thanks for sharing and ride safe :)
The static weight difference between the 350 and the 500 is only 5 lbs. Yet the 350 feels so much lighter on the tight trails. How is that?
Motor rotational force, I found the same thing with my 500 and 350. 2019s unless your doing finke or a pro 350 wins for me.
Rotational mass of crank, 500 has heavier crank which is why it is so noticeable
Thank you! Just what I was looking for, leaning to the 500 for the road segments between trails.
We have to agree with you.
Would you suggest the 350 for an intermediate level rider? I don't want a bike where I can easily just flip it, but still have good power for lifting it for a few wheelies
Yes, it's less beastly than the 500, but still has plenty of power. The 350 is a rock solid bike.
ride both a 350 XCf(I've street legal-ed mine) and a 350exc, different Animals!!
You will be faster on a 350 and it won't beat you into submission.
@@bradl45 which do you prefer to ride? the EXX or your plated XCF?
Wish I could wheelie like this guy does.
Man, we do too. We weren't born with the wheelie gene though.
Ocotillo wells is the desert he’s riding in, I know most people probably don’t care
It's true
Seems like someone should make an aluminum brace for that rear fender.
Or just remove it and install and plate frame.
Nice wheelie in the rollers
#skills - Unfortunately, none of us were born with the wheelie gene.
Why does the 350 look BIGGER than the 500? Camera angle?
Probably... The bikes are almost identical except for the displacement.
From all the reviews i have read, the 500 weighs 2 more pounds than the 350. Is that correct? Grant says it's much lighter. What is the truth?
Published weights are only 2 pounds off. The difference feels greaterthan that when picking it up and while riding it. We haven't put them on a scale to tell you exactly though.
What is the price on the 350
Highly recommend you call your local dealer. Prices vary by market.
@@UPSHIFT_ONLINE ok thanks
Great review! Loving my 2020 Ktm 350 exc f.
Such a great bike.
Is it still good?
Great review! Which one would you lean towards for a 6'1 and 240 pound rider?
So much of that would depend on what kind of riding you are doing. Wide open desert, probably the 500. Technical single track, probably the 350. But there is a lot that can go into that decision beyond those blunt bullet points.
A Yamaha WR450!
Thank you! I’m in East Tennessee. Mostly mountain trails (Windrock Park)
@@TheKitchenTechnician Please! Why aren't those Japs listening to us?? LOL
wow!! what timing for me on this video~! this week I am going to buy the 2022 350 ,but figured I would see if i could find any videos were they would compare the 500 to the 350.And what do I see, you guys with one of my favorite riders of all time Grant Langston!! I do think I am going to go with the 350,just because are group of riders are doing more trail and single track riding,can always gear it different if a guy is to do any longer road trips~! I will be updating the tires,pipe,and taking the reeds out of the air box,and perhaps reflash,so the 350 should be a nice bike to rip!! thanks for the video was really helpful..new subscriber...cheers~!
Congrats on the new bike. We really are big fans of the 350... you are going to love it. Thank you for watching and subscribing.
I think you made the right choice! I love my 2020. Uncork it and reflash it or get the Vortex ECU if you dont have an XCF that can be reflashed..
@@mxracingunlimitedltd7784 Yah did everything to it you have mentioned, things a beast, also ended up buying a 2022 300 xc for single track which I love as well..and also was very luck and ended up with a 2022 890R duke for the street.been loving my KTM's there hitting it out of the park, very happy with them all.
I have an fe 350. I'm thinking about getting a 501 just so I'm not reving the piss out of it on the hwy. I ride to the trails. Sometimes I ride really far.
Thoughts?
That is a consideration for sure. The biggest factor in the RPM range on pavement is your gearing. Finding that happy medium between a tall enough gear for the roads but not too tall for singletrack is the key. You may need to experiment with it. You might be surprised with the outcome.
I do like that the frame is now black.
We do too!
I have a 2021 500 exc-f on hold... It should be mine this week... I cant wait to no longer want more power... My KLX250 dont cut it no matter how dialed in it is for single track.. I always want more power..
Ohhhh man... compared to a KLX250, the 500 is going to give all the power you need. Have fun on your new ride.
@@UPSHIFT_ONLINE Yeah its sick I got my whole 1hr on it and now its out for the first service and Factory connection is doing the suspension so I got a tease but we have snow and ice right now any how.. It feels more like a 2 stroke for top end power but still had some good grunt with my limited time with it I was starting to feel out pivot turns. I just have to use some caution if I nail it not like my 250 lol...
350 is much better. 500 is good for boys who need viagra, due to limp zzzz.
@@teach1644 You sound like you cant handle a 500 in the rocks... No way a 350 would make me happy...
@@imridingwithstoopidohwaiti3948 a good 125 two stroke can handle anything.
GL let's go ride!
We can't keep up with him. But we are slow so there is that. ;)
l just took delivery of my 2020 500 EXCF. former owner was Dakar champ Toby Price
They are excellent bikes. Hopefully Toby wasn't too hard on that one. ;)
Bit backwards how they've included a lithium ion battery but not LED lights like they do with the Duke range.
So many people are changing out the headlight all together on the offroad bikes that it's not a value add for most. Might as well keep the price from going up anymore than it has to. Street bikes operate on much different rules too.
@@UPSHIFT_ONLINE LED H4 bulbs are £15 /$20 on Ebay (I've had one in my MT-07 for 4 years and it's still going). No more expensive than a halogen.
Well you have the right person to pass judgement.JHB-SA.
Im getting the 500 6days soon can't wait
You will love it. Enjoy and #ridemore
First time i have seen Grant Langston since the 90's racing Motorcross in SA
saw him about 3 years ago in JHB at RAD.
How do these bikes perform on the road.? I hear the 500 vibrates pretty bad on the road at the foot pegs and bars. Is the 350 pretty smooth on the road?
At the end of the day these are single cylinder dirtbikes first and foremost. They simply are not tuned for street performance. They are intended to get you from trailhead to trailhead on pavement legally. They can be a bit buzzy, but that's the nature of what they are. It's a game of compromise.
Would the 350 be ok for a 230lb rider?
Yeah it will work fine. It will be a little less snappy that it would for a guy weighing 185, but it won't fail you by any means. If you ride hard and climb hills etc, the 500 would certainly be a better choice.
GL is the best man!! lol love that guy
Nice riding. My disappointments: 1. Air forks. 2. No radiator fan. 3. Very uncomfortable seat 4. Oil pump gears needed replacement in past years- not sure about 2020. 5. Muffler isn't great. 6. Could use better clutch 5. Needs disc guard (front and back) 6. Needs skid plate. 7. Needs tire for off-road. For $11,399 it should come ready to go. I should not have pour another $1,500+ into it to get it ride ready.
In some of those cases, the governments has a say. In others, if they did install those parts people would be upset that the bike costs even more or that they don't like the parts and they have to replace them anyhow. Thankfully, we have a solid aftermarket making great options.
@@UPSHIFT_ONLINE I disagree. Then why don't you see this much on street bikes sans perhaps aftermarket exhaust. That part is regulated and DOT tires. So you are suggesting that people would complain about getting higher quality parts? That doesn't make a whole lot of sense. But ok, going with your logic then charge what its worth, about $6k. My main point is that it is both wasteful and abnoxious to charge consumers a premium price of about 12k, then we have to throw away stock parts and also buy new ones. The auto industry is more highly related yet every part on a new Lexus and the finished stock product is high quality worthy of the premium price.
Possible to replace the integrated taillight for ktm 500 excf?tnx
There are some options on the market to get rid of the long fender bits. Yoshimura makes a tail tidy and Moto Minded makes their FlexPlate system.
Thank you very much appreciate that
Can these bikes be ridden stock without any issues, flame out and such?
We have had no issues with them dead stock off the the showroom floor. Fuel them up, ride themand do maintenance. And of course there are a ton of options in the aftermarket to make them even better.
UPSHIFT ONLINE Brought home a brand new ktm 500 exc-f and within 4 miles of riding on the road the bike stalled as soon as pulled in the clutch to down shift when approaching a turn. Next day same thing. Multiple times. Put 35 miles on the bike so today I changed the oil. I turned up the idle screw and that seem to help some. Then when idling for maybe a 30 seconds the engine light came on. That was yesterday. Today less stalling for sure but when turning the bike around on the trail today the check engine light came on. I’m assuming because it had been idling. If I shut the bike off the check engine light will go away. Any thoughts?
2020 500 xcf-w is the way to go.
It's a great bike for sure.
It's not all about the size it's how u use it,that's why the pros mostly use 350s
Let’s see some hard enduro on these beasts
Does anyone knows if the engines on this bikes are durable? Or you just need to repair the engine like every 2 to 3 years using it once per weekend going out with friends kind of use?
Every bike has different maintenance intervals and how long an engine lasts has a lot to do with doing proper maintenance. Replacing a piston is normal maintenance at a certain number of hours etc. KTM does do a good job of building quality motorcycles though.
That Grant dude looks like a good rider. He should try racing.
He's alright.
First thing... get a skid plate!
Good call!
Wait! What! I can touch the ground! About time they made a great bike that this 5’3” power ranger can ride comfortably! 😜
grant still can rip!!!!
Yeah, he's not lacking in skills and speed.
Perfect add another $2k for your new bike just the way I like it
$2k isn't necessary, but it's not hard to get there.
Good review. Cheers
Thanks 👍
Getting the 350, if i get 500 right away there is nothing to upgrade
The 350 is very capable. It just depends what kind of riding you are doing whether you will get the most out of it.
No led head light geez
Highly recommend the cyclops kit for these bikes. It's so good.
Awesome Intel,. Thanks
You're welcome! Appreciate you watching.
What about the forgotten 450exc?
They eliminated the 450 EXC-F from the line in 2020. Just the 350 and 500. They are still making the 450 XC-F for racing etc. But they didn't need the 450 and 500 in the EXC-F lineup.
UPSHIFT ONLINE
Yes I know. But I’m surprised. I’ve owned a 17 500 and now have a 19 450exc. They are very different riding bikes. Everyone assumes the 450 is so close to the 500 so they just go with the 500. For me I prefer the 450.
I've just sold a 2008 450 XCRW and a 16 500 exc, both very nice bikes, the XCRW was a premium single track/ tour of Idaho T1 Bike!!!!!
I'll buy a lightly used 2020 500 this fall, and ride a street legal 350xc until then.
The 500 will be for the sand and single track(ya, cx Rekluse rocks here), and the 350xc everywhere else!!!!!!!!(racing, outrunning C19, etc), the 350 just keeps reving, and is a hoot to ride, a 500 almost feels tame, lol.
It's almost like the 300 vs 250 smoker debate, yes the 300 is amazing, but the faster reving 250 smoker is more playful, the 500 vs 350, I think the gap is even larger than the 300/250 thang!!
Brad Lu
Yes I agree. I had a 500exc and at the same time my race bike was a 17 350xc-f. The xcf was a beast of a bike. Now I’m on a Beta 200rr and the 450exc. Good combo in my opinion 🤙🏽
@@SWFlowseeker I like your style, NICE Bikes!!!!!!!
I had a KTM200 long ago, it was a super fun bike too, I wish my quiver was larger, lol.
Can the 350 be made street legal?
The 350 EXC-F is street legal from the factory.
Considering the excf 350 and the WR250F. I have 10+ years of experience riding and racing ROAD BIKES but have not done a single day on a motocross/dual sport bike... heart says KTM all the way but brain reminds me of ppl skipping smaller bikes when starting at the track and then crashing lots before they learn anything.
I will be doing 99% trails so not much riding on the road at all.
Would you please tell my heart to shut the hell up?
Haha... both are excellent bikes. The WR would be a bit more tame and frankly less work on the maintenance front to get things going offroad. It would be a long while before the WR would not do something you needed it to do. And by then you will likely need a new bike.
UPSHIFT ONLINE - totally agree! KTM does not have the market cornered on trail riding fun. Great bikes but value for fun is very different than value for performance. No new’ish rider will ever ring the performance out of the KTM till they drop a bike on the trail say 40 times working at pushing the skills to make them a better rider. And maintaining that high performance bike isn’t worth it to any new rider in my opinion.
Get a simple and totally fun carb bike first you can turn your own wrenches on for all maintenance cause that’s part of the journey IMHO.
When will KTM fix the floppy rear fender assembly. It’s definitely an afterthought and not a bespoke piece for the street version. My friends broke off after a few rides! The only thing those hand guards are good for is keeping the flies off your gloves. Why bother!? AGM battery over a lithium any day. God forbid your radiator fan motor fails on the trail due to a deep water crossing, which seems common. Nothing like being stranded deep in the backcountry with an overheating motor because you can’t run without the fan. Seen it happen. Not a pleasant experience. Seems to be a fairly common issue. Thanks but no thanks I’ll stick with my 20 year old Yamaha WR400 and my 2003 YZ450. Both street plated and rock solid. No fans necessary. Why does a new bike need so many mods and why so many “upgrades and Improvements”?
Orange is just a colour. Blue is a state of mind.
Well the floppy rear fender thing is government mandated from the factory. The license plate and certain reflectors have to be in certain places on the bike for it to meet DOT regs so they make it bare bones and very easy to remove for the end consumer. As consumers demand ever growing levels of performance and lower weight, things like fans make that possible. Fortunately you have your WR400 and YZ450 so you can sidestep all the newfangled contraptions out there. ;) Thanks for watching anyhow!
Awesome vid, nice accent.cheers from au
Haha good Langston! Thanks for watching.
Grant just hauls ass! So fun to watch.
It's pretty intense in person.
Would the excf 350 be abit too powerful for a novice rider ?
The 350 has some pep to it. If you have no riding experience, it might not be a good choice. If you do have at least some riding experience, it might be a bit of a challenge at first but it would be a bike to grow into.
UPSHIFT ONLINE
Brilliant ! Thanks for the feedback.
The last time i went on a bike was about 10 years ago lol. I had a yamaha yz 250 99 model. It was an animal.
Is the reliability of the excf350 good and low maintenance or are there better bike choices you’d recommend ? Thanks.
Where the hell is the 450?
They took it out of the dualsport lineup. Just didn't need a 350, 450, 500.
👏🏻
Thank you for watching
Number one upgrade ECU number to upgrade get an ECU number three get an ECU government policy has caused these bikes that are a 500 cc four stroke to put out 250 cc four stroke power which is horrendous hard to want even pick up one of these if you didn’t have that option.
Go 500 for sure. Always go for more cc or u will regrat it
Bullshit! IF you ride Like we deep in the forest very technical tracks. 500 cc you cant manage it becouse too heavy too strong!
Yeah... The 500 is great for road use. But nobody needs that power for the woods. I've got a 2018 500 exc and I wish I could also own a 150xc (spectacular bike even for a heavy dude)
Definitely do not agree with this statement. There are places and riders that suit the 500 very well and there are places and riders that suit the 350 very well. Pick the right tool for the job.
@@UPSHIFT_ONLINE
Like I said. 500cc is for longer trips Like Baja race, Dakar. I never saw 500cc on Romaniacs from Red Bull or very few riders have it but their are masochist.
Why make people choose between these two bikes?
Why not just make a 450cc street legal KTM and get the best of everything?
This having to choose is a bit annoying to say the least.
Uhhhh... sorry?
Cause you can’t make everyone happy!
KTM SUCKS ! I bought my 2018 500 exc and it was the best enduro you could buy at the time . BUT if you buy a KTM you will have to keep buying and new one every year . Because the just keep getting better and better every year .
Hahahaha I've heard the same. Luckily I'm not nearly as good as my bike could be. So I'll settle for the 18
Hahaha... yeah they do keep improving. But we loved the '18. Solid machine!
Entire tail section shaking like shit when you hit bum. KTM should make it tough and sturdy. Those number plate bolts will get loose eventually drop without you realise it.
It's there from the factory to satisfy government regulations. Most riders simply take them off and it's not a problem.
Tail tidy for sure
Great video!
I have just done my first ever motocross photo shoot.Have a look, give me some tips and feedback if you can!
Hope you enjoy!
@
You Americans need to come to Australia and learn how to set up a ktm 500 properly 😂
Come on over and show us how! ;)
No 2t meh.
Uhhh... sorry :-|
Ktm👍
Dirt bike kanhape hai
The headlights are still crap, no way around it.
We swap them out to the Cyclops kit straight away.
What a waste of time. You said nothing but advertising shit. Lithium battery. Who cares. That was done years ago. You spoke nothing of the power delivery.. is it linear. It torquey.? Flame outs ? Gyroscopic effect. Differences ? Seriously.
Thank you for watching and your feedback is appreciated.
111
So there are not ready to race...
These are dualsports... so not really intended for racing. And no bike is 100% the way you want it from the factory.
@@UPSHIFT_ONLINE Those bikes are not dual sport ,there are enduro. If the bikes are not intended for racing then the manufacturer should not lie and say "ready to race". I do not attack the product , only KTM.
It’s an EXC... not a XC. Where are you racing a dual sport? If you are, there are not many dual sports you can buy as set up to be competitive out of the box like the KTMs. I would go as far as saying none. And I’m not even a KTM guy, but they deserve credit where it’s due.
Calin Florin so much wrong with your comment
1. Define “ready to race”
2. What’s stopping you from racing these bikes in stock form?
3. These are in fact dual sport bikes (they’re road legal)
4. “Ready to Race” is a fucking slogan, don’t get your panties in a bunch
👍👍👍👍🇷🇺
Thank you for watching!
Headlight is still garbage … xl80 all day
Unfortunately, OEM's are rarely going to put anything more than they have to into things like high end lighting. Thankfully, we have a strong after market that makes all sorts of great options to fit your needs.
@@UPSHIFT_ONLINE yea I agree.
This guy doesn’t know what he’s talking about. Go to taco moto co.
He knows a fair amount. Just say'n.
Is 350 ok for beginner rider 310lbs ,135kg heavy ?
Sure. It will have enough power to get you around but shouldn't be hard to handle unless you are reckless. You will want to get the suspension sprung properly for your weight and capability... which is true for 90% of all riders.