2-Stroke vs 4-Stroke: 2023 KTM 300XC vs KTM 350XCF Back to Back GP/Woods Loop

Описание: 2023 KTM 300XC vs 2021 KTM 350XXF Back to Back! My two favorite 2-stroke and 4-stroke dirt bikes ridden back to back on a GP/Woods loop! Thoughts on each bike....

350XCF: Lap Time 2:52.7
This Kailub Russell 350XCF with WP Pro Components suspension, full Akrapovic exhaust, and myKTM connectivity unit has been my favorite 350 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. These latest 350's might have the widest usable RPM range of any engine. 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 that is also super fun on the trails. Negatives? Why can't this bike come from KTM with spring forks? Lots of engine vibration.

300XC: Lap Time 2:49.3
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 takes 8~10 hours to break in so might feel a bit unsettled in the little chop for the first few rides. AER forks take time and effort to dial in for your weight and riding skill - spin the clickers and try different fork pressures.

I will do more of these 300XC vs 350XCF back to backs 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 Ride: Believe the Hype!  

The '23 300XC Does it All:
   • 2023 KTM 300XC Does it All!  

The 350XCF Does it All:
   • Best 4-stroke Dirt Bike KTM 350 Factory Ed...