Putting a rekluse clutch in the 350 makes it the best woods bike for my local tracks, solves the flame out issue however the 300 is great on the technical stuff as it grunts better than than the 350 even with rekluse. Figured I’d throw this out here for anybody considering as I’ve had experience with both bikes
Thats not the point. He’s proving that 2 S can handle better (or not flame out) than the 4 S. Yes if he worked the clutch more he may not stall. But that is not the point. Point is; going the same track, same gear 2 S pulled through and 4 stroke stalled.
The KTM 300 you can tune with the red, yellow and green spring. Put on the red spring if you want that power band to hit hard and brutal, put on the green spring and you will have a mellow tractor :) At least so they say, have not yet had the pleasure to ride one myself yet but think I will buy a KTM 300 2 stroke but also think of the KTM 500 as I do like the grunt of a big 4 stroke. I did love my Yamaha WR450 for tarmac and fast gravel roads but it was a bit hard to control at slow and technical and I am not a good rider at all lol :)
The 300 XCW definitely will outperform the 350 XCF in that type of riding. The XCW and XCF are in totally different categories. The XCW is a single track and technical trail bike, and the XCF is a MX / desert race bike. I think a more fair comparison would be the 300 XCW compared to the 350 XCF-W. I just bought a 15 Beta 390 four stroke, which is very comparable to the 350 XCF-W but a little more low end torque. Love the bike so far! Not a single flame out yet! We ride EM single track a lot. Hit us up if you wanna ride!
RiderDestinationsTV I agree with everything you said. I just wanted to pick up a "change of pace" bike, so I opted for the XC version of this bike. I have to say that I really like the suspension on it for the faster sections.
Dirt Bike Channel I second the suggestion of the XCFW. I ride the 250 XCFW and have never flamed out on that exact trail. Mind you, I like to ride in 2nd gear and slip the clutch when things get gnarly. It's nice to know that when I upgrade to the 300 XCW that I'll get all the benefits of the 2-stroke and it should already suite my riding style.
***** I'll third that suggestion. The XC-F is NOT a single track machine. That's precisely what the XCF-W is for, two stroke or four stroke. Not a fair comparison. I've got a de-restricted 500 EXC, and it would rip that trail. With a lot of clutch slipping, but with that butter smooth diaphragm clutch, it's not a thing. And the pros always say use the clutch to modulate power. So...
I have a 2011 FE390 that I bought brand new in 2013 and JUST bought a 2012 TE300 that has 25 miles on it. I have a Rekluse on the 390 and have gotten used to the simple riding that bike provides. The 300...WOW! VERY light and nimble. Still getting used to the change. I feels like I out the 390 motor in a mountain bike. I had a good friend ride both of my bikes at Carnegie Hills in Livermore, Ca and after riding the 390, told me that the bike was like cheating easy. "Effortlessly to ride." He then rode the 300 and said he was able to make it up obstacles he has NEVER been able to make before and that he would be willing to challenge anyone (in his class) to the hill climbs they hold there each year. Excited to learn to ride the 2-stroke. GREAT videos! Keep 'em coming.
Great job. IMO not a fair comparison but it shows a lot how perform each bike in the same terrain. Hopefully soon my garage will have a 300 XC-W which is amazing for trails, gnarly and technical sections, and 450 XC which is great for single tracks and faster staff. Actually I have a 450 XC-W and 350 EXC-F. The 450 is much more easy to ride and I love it. Even in gnarly trails it does the job perfectly! Anyway, great job, keep riding and enjoy! =)
Try the enduro version of the 350 not the cross one if engine stalls.Different(not so advanced)timing and heavier flywheel(more inertia).Agree the 4 stroke stalls easyer.But the bike you ride it is not for tech enduro if you are not familiar with an engine that fires once at 2 revolutions.The 2 stroke has much more advantages compared to 4 stroke in tech terrain.But the stalling is not a 4 stroke problem,it is setup and riding skills.Regards,
The XCF-W would have been a better apples to apples comparison to the XC-W. I doubt the flame outs would have been as much of a problem with the gearing and heavier crankshaft. But cool video!
I would suggest dropping a tooth in the rear so you could ride the 4 stroke in the correct rpm range. You should try keeping it higher in the rpm range that's where the 350 make their power. I have a 2015 350 sxf. I've found this to be the case for me. Love your show and thanks for all the videos.
These comparisons are right on point, my buddy and I both bought 2015 husqvara te300's.. I come from a street bike background and a bit of supermoto. I haf never ridden anything bigger than a cr70f on dirt, we ride with my neighbor who has benn riding for a long long time, he bought a Honda 250x last year and we traded bikes the other day for a few miles, needles to say he loves the 300. As far as my input, I love my 300, its light, nimbles, you can lug it, you can let it scream....I'v only had it 6 weeks and already have put 12 hours 200 miles on it, all technical single track... Two stroke for life!!!! Anyway, we ride the Entiat ranger district in central Washington, over 300 miles of maintained single track with trail heads just a few miles from my house... You should hit me up and come ride up here, look up the trails in my arear here on RUclips.
I dont mean to be so off topic but does anyone know a way to get back into an Instagram account..? I somehow lost the account password. I would love any tricks you can give me
@Thatcher Amari i really appreciate your reply. I got to the site thru google and I'm in the hacking process atm. Seems to take quite some time so I will get back to you later with my results.
Important note: the gearing is taller on the 350 vs the 300. Many folks in the comments are bashing the Kyle because he didn't use his clutch properly. Yes you are right, slipping the clutch is necessary BUT its also really important to have the correct gearing to go slow without stalling or burning your clutch. I came to this video to confirm what i saw in other comparisons, that the gearing on the 350 is taller meaning each gear will go a higher speed. Kyle s learning this in the video but is still correct that this is a downfall of this bike.
I always love your videos, Kyle. I think the main take away from this is that the Two stroke is an easier bike to ride in these situations. I don’t think the 4 Stroke is any less capable, but you have to ride higher in the RPMs. You either have to really work the clutch, or put in a Rekluse auto clutch. I currently have a 2015 Yz250f that I ride. I bought it thinking I would go to the track, but I quickly found out I much prefer trails. It definitely likes to stall. For now I am going to throw some protective parts on the bike and a rekluse auto until I decide I’m ready to buy a dedicated trail bike. That bike will likely be a KTM 300 Xc-W. I rode a buddy’s newer Husky 300 TE and it really is very hard to stall, even for a novice woods rider like myself. Keep up the good work!
good video Dirtbike channel,dont listen to the obvious trolls' gave up on 4 strokes though when the crank shaft literally snapped in 2 and grenades my motor on my 2007 crf 450,went back to 2 strokes and now ride a kx 250 2003. and a 97 cr5
Gearing is definitely a game changer. I run a 2014 500EXC with 13/48 and 14/52. Tight technical stuff I am constantly feathering the clutch and keep the revs up, it will plow up and through anything. Thanks for another great video.
Dirt Bike Channel If it has high gearing to pass emissions when sold it will suck on trails. Just like my 500 with stock gearing was awful I switched it to 13-50 like the xcw & it rocks.
love he says flamed out pull the clutch on build your revs and slip the thing it's bathed in oil for a reason ... use it to keep your revs up and stop you from stalling
Watch some of my newer stuff and you'll notice that I am getting better :) Funny that you don't need to use the clutch on a 300 2 stroke as much. Those things are magic.
Don't get why everybody talks about him being biased towards 2 strokes there's certain things they're better at than 4 strokes I love the 2 stroke but I personally own a 4 stroke. To each their own it's all preference. Great videos man ! Keep it up !
I appreciate your opinion very much. I just can't see myself on a 500 while I'm trail riding places like Hungry Valley. It's 245 lbs dry and I can't help but think that bike would wipe me out if I ever needed to pick it up like your nearly upside down 300. I'm sure either one of your tested bikes would make me very happy. The 300 sounds great because of its light weight and slow speed manners. Great vid, perfect talk to riding ratio. Keep them coming.
Mike James Seriously, I've loved the 300XC-W more than anything else I've ever owned in my life. If you don't mind mixing gas, which isn't a big deal, the 300 XC-W would be a better fit than the 350 XC-F for your needs.
I thin k it all depends how you ride if your pro 2-stroke you're going to ride better on a 2-strokes. I would take the 350 but don't get me wrong I love 2-stokes too! I I were rich I would have a stable of both bikes ! 👍I really appreciate the videos you're making for us really cool that you're comparing all these bikes keep up the good work💯🤘🏁
I literally don't flame out even at a dead stop on my 4 stroke but I think its because I use my clutch lol not a crazy 4 stroke fan or anything just think your used to using a 2 stroke.
TPS tuning was a huge improvement as well. I picked one up from BDSB along with a Snap, Grunt and end cap. Opened the engine up and gave it a little more low end pull. You still need to be on the gas and clutch when the going is slow and steep. They are both great bikes. You are lucky to have the chance to do the comparison. My son runs the 300EXC smoker and it is a beast.
I recently went to my local KTM dealer and -- not knowing KTM very well -- told him I needed a good woods/trail bike and that I liked slow, technical riding. He sold me a 350XC-F. And I can attest to the fact that the bike likes to stall and hates going slow. Of course I can adjust my riding style to match it, but I feel I would have been better served with an EXC or XCFW.
Your video completley changes my idea on a 2t vs 4t I have been really considering a 4t for my seccond bike for low rpms but hearing this changes everything lol
I'm on a 125 two stroke right now, considering a 2010+ two stroke for my next bike. I'm in Pennsylvania and will be doing woods riding and hare scrambles, presuming you ride at least some of that kind of stuff, which woulld you say would work the best: 200xc-w, 250xc/xc-w, or 300xc/xc-w? I feel with a 300 I would put myself into a tree at my expirence level haha.
Foster Schutt Foster. I've owned KTM 300XC's and XC-W's, CRF450, YZ450F, and some other crap. I'm currently on a KTM 250SX converted to a 300SX with a wide ratio gearbox installed and lots of goodies. My 300SX is like a more hyper/intense version of the 300XC. It's pissed off all the time. I've added a flywheel weight, change the jetting, mellower powervalve spring. It helps, but I strongly recommend the 300XC-W for enduro riding. I didn't want the added weight of the starter and all that crap, which is why I have SX. With the wide ratio it does absolutely fine, but you'd better be an aggressive rider if you're going to go the 300SX route. The engines are simply tuned for max HP at the expensive of the low rpm luggability of the XC/XC-W.
The not stalling and mild controllable power at low rpm is the main reasons I am considering a KTM 300 2 stroke... I had a WR450 and I liked it a lot but it was hard to ride when it got slow and technical because of the enormous hard to control power at low rpm and tendency to stall very easily. My first real dirtbike was a old 1983 KX125 MX bike and that was ironically enough more easy to ride in the slow and technical then the WR450 as it had very mild throttle response at low rpm and did not stall that easy. Ideally I would like to have both a KTM 500 and a 300 2 stroke :)
A great/dynamic rider can probably make anything work but it sure seems like 2-strokes are the bike of choice in the big hare scrambles/enduro races. I was down to the 350xc-f, 300xc or the 250xc and after riding all three I fell in love with the 250xc. Great power/weight ratio, no crazy vibration, no high compression issues... I definitely prefer the 2-stroke. For the track though... probably 4-stroke.
Thanks to your videos I have added a 2017 300 XC-W to the stable of bikes for next year. It will be interesting to see if I like it more than the 450 CRF-X or as much as I like the 400 EXC. Im excited to be back on a 2 stroke. Thank you for the great videos.
Great Video. I have the Beta 300 and a 15 300XC. Everyone says why two 300's...let me tell you they are very different bikes! Ever get Down into NM let me know and we can compare them all! Great vids man.
it all comes down to CHARACTER. Each of them have there own character. It's not just about which is best. Each characteristic is suited for different reasons like, terrain,weather,ability,ect. Also from personal experience the riders personality is a huge factor. I always loved 2 strokes. As a 15yr old my bike of choice was a 86 CR500. There is just too many variables to choose which is superior
I put a fly wheel weight on my 14 350 xcf and it does not stall much. Also try feathering the clutch a lot in tight technical terrain. It Will make the bike heat up faster. But at least you’ll make it to the top!
I'm going back to a 4T after owning a '16 300 XCW. The '17 350 XC-F will get a 13t counter sprocket and spring change before it ever sees dirt (also real hand guards, flex bars, skid plate, sparky, etc). Part of the change is vibration/hand issues. Had a '17 250 SX, and the vibration is better, but still worse than the 4t. Even with a Lectron carb, the 350 will have more fuel range. This isn't the 1st video I've seen where a 2t rider had stalling issues at 1st on a 4t.
You should try changing the rear sprocket. I was having the same issue stalling on my 350 exc 4 stroke and when i changed the rear sprocket it changed my life and I never flame out now. Thanks for the awesome video!! Nice to see a comparison of 2 stock bikes.
Another awesome video! Great Job! More of the riding would have been good, or maybe just a slower fast forward so more could be seen, otherwise it was a good length.
go down one tooth on the 4-stroke , problem solved. I have a 09 kx250f which I took out riding xc and hare scramble racing. I was killing the engine all the time until I put a bigger sprocket on the back. Runs like a champ now and i'm not even a good rider. I'm c -class. Really it comes down to the rider. Ride what suites you best. I've had 2-strokes as well. I had a kdx200 . What a great bike! I never should have sold it. I needed the money at the time. Anyway, ride on man, have fun!
Also if they are worth it? My husqvarna comes with the stock hand guards. I could return what I bought no problem and would save me lots of money. What do you think
This is not really a fair comparison. I dont think many would argue that the 2-stroke has a lot more power than that 350 4-stroke, if youre hillclimbing in 2nd and it bogs out, I dont think that is an error on the bike. Im definitely a 2-stroke guy but im also a guy of fair comparisons.
QRC How is it not the bikes fault? It's engine fires every OTHER revolution, so stalls/flame-outs are much more common at low rpm...a 2-stroke like a 300 xc will chug all day above idle because of its engine...at the same exact lugging rpm a 4 stroke will likely stall...so I ask again, how is NOT the bikes fault?
The 300 XC-W is a awesome fun bike right out of the box, once you set the suspension up for your weight and riding ability it becomes a unbeatable trail weapon. I'm actually shocked the two stroke has more low end torque over the four stroke.
Dirt Bike Channel. I see you definitely hit a sensitive nerve here with the 2T 4T comparison. Reading through the comments here its clear that everyone has an opinion, informed or completely subjective. Tough crowd, but I'm sure you know you cant please everyone. Anyway, I think you doing a great job with this channel, keep up the good work.
dude!!!put a rekluse on that 350!i know you dont want to feel like your cheatin,,butlook at it as a improvement to the bike!..ive been enjoying your films,thank you for the time it takes to make them!sitting home after surgury wishin i was ridin!i would love to ride out there by you western guys!!looks epic!
+hometownguy71 For me, the idea of using a Rekluse is kind of like buying a sports car with an automatic transmission. Kind of takes the challenge out of it a bit. I have two hands and they both have something really important to do, that is sort of the fun of this sport. One of them can pull the clutch while the other is for the gas and brake. An automatically operated clutch takes some of that challenge away from me. It’s almost like cheating in a way. When I stall my bike on an obstacle or hill, it just means I need to get my crap together and get better. Does that make sense?
Just geared too tall. Thats all. No biggie. =)) I guarrentee you, you go up two teeth in the rear and soften the rebound up front a touch and you would have a 300 eater. Super easy guys. TUNE IT!!
This video was very much on point, me thinks it is someone else here who is biased... I love both 4 strokes and 2 strokes and see the advantages and disadvantages of both. If I cold afford it I would have a KTM 500 and a KTM 300 2 stroke and ride them both when the conditions suit them best.
I just bought the 350 XC-F.....2018 model year I’ve had four strokes in the past.......just gotta know how to ride them is all......definitely diff than 2 strokes for sure I’m no expert by any stretch of the imagination but the guy that said you need to learn how to ride them is correct That’s not a criticism, just an observation is all
I love both two stroke and 4 stroke bikes, I think the main problem was that you're so use to riding the 300 as it can lug way down low as a two stroke can but a 4 stroke can't. You really gotta cover that clutch and when the RPM's get low pull it in and give it some gas to hike them up! You get use to it after you ride it more but I would not say it's the engines fult for sure
+Thom 1888 I agree with you on most points here. Having been switching back and forth between my 4 strokes and my 2 strokes all summer, I will say that 2 strokes are easier to ride in the technical, rocky crap.
Yea I've never tried a 2 stroke but from what i've heard they can be easier to ride out of the box. I bet if you get a auto clutch and some more upgrades she will not flame out as quick. Stay safe on the bike man your channel is great!
That's a great set up to have where the two bikes perform better in certain areas. I think you'd really like the 300 XC with that 4CS suspension. One of our guys went from a 300 XCW to a 300 XC and he loves it. The Huskys and Betas are pretty amazing too. I rode the Beta 300 and liked it more than the KTM. Love the vids! Keep up the good work!
Why wouldn't you compare the 300XC to the 350 XCF-W, which should avoid many of the "flame outs" that seem to be the only complaint about the four stroke??
I've been riding an 18 300XC-W and a 16 350XC-f back to back in various terrain, and conclusion #1, after 20+ years of racing and the last 15 years spent on a 450, I will probably NEVER buy another 450. They are great if you are in prime shape and spend countless hours riding and training to handle the power, but after you move past that period of your life and you can't ride/train like that, take some advice from us....stop buying 450's, you'll thank us for that decision, I wish I had given up the 450 a long time ago. The 350 I've really enjoyed in the sand dunes because it revs so high that you don't shift nearly as much. The FI is awesome for elevation. BUT, overall I'll take the 300 2-stroke every time because even compared to the light 350 it feels like a mountain bike in comparison. On paper the weight is within a few pounds, but under your butt the 300 feels completely different and the fun factor is 10x the 350. Loving the 300, it's fun factor is off the charts.
I ride a yz250f and I love it. Been looking at the 350 XCF-W for my next bike because I do a lot of trail riding. I've never ridden a 2 stroke so I'm not as comfortable putting money into something completely different.
Love the videos. Keep em coming. I ride a wr450. Got a chance to ride a 300 and a 350 back to back, and will definitely say the 350 was my least favorite of all of them. It seriously lacks low end torque.
Michael Bjur I agree that it's soft on the low end torque, but the more I've ridden it, the more I like it. I'm not giving up my 300 two-stoke, but the 350 is growing on me.
Hey I've got a question for you what kind of ramp are using to get your bikes in your truck? I usually load my bikes by myself and a wide ramp like that would make my life a lot easier! Also I know you're probably doing these reviews with these bikes being in stock form but you should think about getting a rekluse clutch on that four stroke. It helped mine a lot with the stalling out problem in the low RPMs Rocky sections.
Travis Napier It's just a basic 4 wheeler ramp. Makes getting in and out of the truck a whole lot easier. Yeah, I can see why folks would drop 1k on the rekluse clutch on these 350's. I have to admit though, I think that might take some of the fun out of it. Seems like cheating, you know?
It's a common mistake. People get fixated on what they think is a problem (flame-out) and then it becomes easier and easier 4 that issue to keep popping up. All u have 2 do is 1) adjust your riding style 2) if necessary re-gear the bike for this non motocross/ single track type riding. The bikes are great. 🍻
How can you even compare if you don’t set the sag? That is a MUST. The 350 flames out because its mapping is so lean. The bike has Covid masks on it. I put a slipper clutch in mine and a different ECU. I can run it on an Mx track or hooligan trail rides. I do miss my 2 smoker however this is one hell of a bike. It is an expensive one to modify. What’s that saying? How fast do you want to go/spend? Great videos. Thanx.
You should list the year of the bikes when you post these videos so people looking for used bikes can go back and compare and not have to guess at the year for comparison
Can't say I've ever heard of "flame out" before. I've heard stalling out and like driving a car or a tractor you stall out because the operator does not know how to properly use the clutch and when.
Where is this trail? How do I get to the trailhead? I live in the Salt Lake area and I'm always looking for good desert single track when the mountains are still covered in snow. Thanks!
reading the comments yeah the pitchforks came out. i have a 350 EXC-F. so kind of similar. i hear you on not being able to do low rpm. you really have to gear them down and rev them to get low speed and keep rpms up. then you have to shift super picky. they're kind of fussy that way. i have a couple sprocket sets because of this. i wouldnt exactly say im dissapointed, but its a weird in-between engine. its almost like riding a 90's 2 stroke but it doesnt have a power band and you can engine brake. its great if you want to cover a lot of ground fast to get somewhere far away and back home. thats my 2 cents. i was looking at your video's, did you ever do a review on the EXC-F? id like to watch that if you did one. also, what brand of bark busters do you run on that 2 stroke? i like how they are the top clamps of the bar mounts.
Just wanted to let you know I have really enjoyed your channel I'm new too the single track scene coming from an mx background I am currently riding a crf450r but your videos and insight are helping me realize I need another bike for this style of riding keep up the great work thanks again
Next time you go down the steep shale part on the 2 stroke put it in neutral and turn the engine off. Then use both front and rear brakes for control. Be sure not to knock the transmission into gear. That will make the bike skid.
I like how you loaded your bikes in pick up bed. Are the front tires touching? FYI i just bought a YZ 450FX coming off a KX 250 2- stroke. It is a great bike, you should try it if you can. I do suffer from stalling it, most likey due to i am used to riding 2 strokes. Thanks for your videos!
Nice video love your work mate,just wanting to know what size sprockets your running on the 350,I changed my 2016 esc,to 13-53 and it lugs unreal,it's suits my riding style (old bloke ) really well,and my rising erea,I went from 14-50 rear,I was in the clutch a fair bit,thanks again for the videos cheers
Do you think the bikes with the Linkage rear would be ok for harescrambles? I'm torn. I like the xc-f but the PDS option is tempting. I know I'm probably not a good enough rider to notice a difference.
Hi Kyle, I see you have a Scotts Steering Stabilizer on both bikes. Which are the biggest benefits you see in having a steering stabilizer while riding at very low speed in technical single trail?
It's not really just comparing two stroke to four stroke at this point when one of the bikes is a w and one of them isn't. This 350 4 stroke will do you wonders in the sand though
Chad Hobson Correct. I never said this was 4t vs 2t video. This is just comparing the two bikes on one specific trail. It's a fun comparison and we'll keep doing more of these vids where the 350 will shine over the W.
are you a rider that uses the clutch a lot? I'm inclined to think that you don't due to the sound of the bike(s)...if you learn to love the clutch it will change the 4 stroke for you in a big way. I never used to be a clutch using rider (any more than I could get away with at a minimum anyway) but I worked on it and now it makes everything so much easier and see basically zero flame outs (I'm a slower more technical rider too...I don't bother with the fast stuff at all). Work on your clutch control and you learn to love the 4 stroke too!! :) Oh, but please note that my next bike is either a 250 or 300 2 stroke, lol...gotta mix it up a little from time to time :P
MatnBec BikeAdventures yeah, I hear what you are saying. Going to have to learn to live on the clutch to keep that 350 running! I've been able to get away with minimal clutching on the 300 two-stroke, and in truth, I was trying to really show the difference. I still like the 350, just not quit as much as my 300.
Here's something that helps me and my crew in tight spots like what your getn into over and over wit the 4-stroker: When in doubt, GIV' ERRRRR !!!!!! (WIDTO: wen in doubt throttle OUUUUTTTTT) Me papi used ta-says: it ain't the mule, IT'S DA ASS ON DA MULE HAHAHAHAHAHAHA. All kidding aside, love yr videos, always entertaining and informative. Keep up the great work, Bro 🍻
A weighted flywheel would really help stop that stalling out with the 4 stroke. It will get you right over those rocks. Also, get a trials bike and work on climbing over obstacles.
I have the 2015 350sxf an you really have to cover the clutch. my clutch seems alot harder to pull than the other 2015s on the show room at ktm also. it's a fun bike but my next will either be a 300xc or a 250sx with the 300 kit. I ride mostly motocross but enjoy trials also. nice video sir keep up the great work.
I have had and ridden both on significantly more difficult trails, try Georgetown, CA or Hobble Creek and Cherry Creek, UT, both bikes have their pros and cons but if the 4 stroke is geared right and you know how to use the clutch or add a Rekluse (even better), the 4 stroke is way smoother to ride both uphill and downhill, mine can come to a complete stop and start in gnarly stuff and never flame out (fuel injection, proper gearing, and Rekluse clutch). All around best trail bike 500EXC or XCW unless you are doing Romaniacs and need something light enough to drag over obstacles OR are a smaller lighter rider.
+P Dwelley I've ridden all those areas you are talking about many times. I have a question for you. How much experience to you have on modern 300 2 strokes?
Sorry mate that sounds more like stalling then flame-out. Flame-out is something completely different relating to running too lean, and literally shutting off. Sounds more like you are doing low rpm stalling.
Have you had your suspension set up on either bike? By that I mean, sprung for your weight/revalved. I just dropped my forks off at Fineline suspension in St. George, that guy is super ice and from what I've heard/read on the internet, he's a wizard when it comes to suspesion stuff. Needless to say, I'm pretty excited.
modestmoose83 On both bikes, I've double checked my static sag and then gone ahead and set the rider sag. Didn't have to change the springs for my weight. I wouldn't mind getting the XC-W's shock rebuilt to act more like the shock on the XC-F.
What you claim to be a flameout, is just normal stalling and you should't blame the bike for that. Also there is a clear difference between 2- and 4-stroke but at your pace it shouldn't be noticable since you almost don't rev up at all, where there is the difference in terms of power, torque and engine response. You can clear these sections with a 125cc 4-stroke with 15hp if you get used to the clutch and the lack of power.
+renate ruschka The point of this video was to highlight that the bikes are very different. One isn't better than the other, but one of them is EASIER to ride on trails such as this. Thanks for watching.
Gotta stop worrying about the 4 stroke guys getting upset stop apologizing they will be fine
Putting a rekluse clutch in the 350 makes it the best woods bike for my local tracks, solves the flame out issue however the 300 is great on the technical stuff as it grunts better than than the 350 even with rekluse. Figured I’d throw this out here for anybody considering as I’ve had experience with both bikes
You "flamed out" because you don't know how to ride a 4 stroke...there's a clutch for a reason
The problem isnt the F, it is the W.. The wide ratio transmission is what dominated this.
Thats not the point. He’s proving that 2 S can handle better (or not flame out) than the 4 S. Yes if he worked the clutch more he may not stall. But that is not the point. Point is; going the same track, same gear 2 S pulled through and 4 stroke stalled.
One thing I will say is that a 2 stroke is the most violent bike you will ever ride, I love it
Dennis Cox Love me some 2 stroke power!
I do,
Violent? The 300 is a mellow tractor. The opposite of violent
Dennis Cox But at the same time they can be the smoothest!
The KTM 300 you can tune with the red, yellow and green spring. Put on the red spring if you want that power band to hit hard and brutal, put on the green spring and you will have a mellow tractor :) At least so they say, have not yet had the pleasure to ride one myself yet but think I will buy a KTM 300 2 stroke but also think of the KTM 500 as I do like the grunt of a big 4 stroke. I did love my Yamaha WR450 for tarmac and fast gravel roads but it was a bit hard to control at slow and technical and I am not a good rider at all lol :)
Flamed out? Whatever dude you stalled it where I’m from 😂 keep practicing!
I cringed every time I heard you say the bike flamed out just say you stalled the damn bike.
There must be a lot of pro riders in the comments section since none of them ever stall a 4t due to their amazing clutch skills.
Sprnklrmn hahahaha fr
It seems as tho you're more biased towards the 2 strokes in general so it really is hard to tell
The 300 XCW definitely will outperform the 350 XCF in that type of riding. The XCW and XCF are in totally different categories. The XCW is a single track and technical trail bike, and the XCF is a MX / desert race bike. I think a more fair comparison would be the 300 XCW compared to the 350 XCF-W. I just bought a 15 Beta 390 four stroke, which is very comparable to the 350 XCF-W but a little more low end torque. Love the bike so far! Not a single flame out yet! We ride EM single track a lot. Hit us up if you wanna ride!
RiderDestinationsTV I agree with everything you said. I just wanted to pick up a "change of pace" bike, so I opted for the XC version of this bike. I have to say that I really like the suspension on it for the faster sections.
Dirt Bike Channel I second the suggestion of the XCFW. I ride the 250 XCFW and have never flamed out on that exact trail. Mind you, I like to ride in 2nd gear and slip the clutch when things get gnarly. It's nice to know that when I upgrade to the 300 XCW that I'll get all the benefits of the 2-stroke and it should already suite my riding style.
***** I'll third that suggestion. The XC-F is NOT a single track machine. That's precisely what the XCF-W is for, two stroke or four stroke. Not a fair comparison. I've got a de-restricted 500 EXC, and it would rip that trail. With a lot of clutch slipping, but with that butter smooth diaphragm clutch, it's not a thing. And the pros always say use the clutch to modulate power. So...
Dang, I always thought 4 strokes did better with low rpm than a 2 stroke. Looks like there's more to learn.
I have a 2011 FE390 that I bought brand new in 2013 and JUST bought a 2012 TE300 that has 25 miles on it. I have a Rekluse on the 390 and have gotten used to the simple riding that bike provides. The 300...WOW! VERY light and nimble. Still getting used to the change. I feels like I out the 390 motor in a mountain bike.
I had a good friend ride both of my bikes at Carnegie Hills in Livermore, Ca and after riding the 390, told me that the bike was like cheating easy. "Effortlessly to ride." He then rode the 300 and said he was able to make it up obstacles he has NEVER been able to make before and that he would be willing to challenge anyone (in his class) to the hill climbs they hold there each year.
Excited to learn to ride the 2-stroke.
GREAT videos! Keep 'em coming.
Darren Boddy Darren, thanks for sharing your experience. The TE 300 is an awesome bike!
Great job. IMO not a fair comparison but it shows a lot how perform each bike in the same terrain. Hopefully soon my garage will have a 300 XC-W which is amazing for trails, gnarly and technical sections, and 450 XC which is great for single tracks and faster staff.
Actually I have a 450 XC-W and 350 EXC-F. The 450 is much more easy to ride and I love it. Even in gnarly trails it does the job perfectly!
Anyway, great job, keep riding and enjoy! =)
Try the enduro version of the 350 not the cross one if engine stalls.Different(not so advanced)timing and heavier flywheel(more inertia).Agree the 4 stroke stalls easyer.But the bike you ride it is not for tech enduro if you are not familiar with an engine that fires once at 2 revolutions.The 2 stroke has much more advantages compared to 4 stroke in tech terrain.But the stalling is not a 4 stroke problem,it is setup and riding skills.Regards,
The XCF-W would have been a better apples to apples comparison to the XC-W. I doubt the flame outs would have been as much of a problem with the gearing and heavier crankshaft. But cool video!
+Jeff Quade You may be right. I can only compare what I own. The XCF-W was too close to the XC-W, so I didn't buy that one.
I would suggest dropping a tooth in the rear so you could ride the 4 stroke in the correct rpm range. You should try keeping it higher in the rpm range that's where the 350 make their power. I have a 2015 350 sxf. I've found this to be the case for me. Love your show and thanks for all the videos.
These comparisons are right on point, my buddy and I both bought 2015 husqvara te300's.. I come from a street bike background and a bit of supermoto. I haf never ridden anything bigger than a cr70f on dirt, we ride with my neighbor who has benn riding for a long long time, he bought a Honda 250x last year and we traded bikes the other day for a few miles, needles to say he loves the 300. As far as my input, I love my 300, its light, nimbles, you can lug it, you can let it scream....I'v only had it 6 weeks and already have put 12 hours 200 miles on it, all technical single track... Two stroke for life!!!! Anyway, we ride the Entiat ranger district in central Washington, over 300 miles of maintained single track with trail heads just a few miles from my house... You should hit me up and come ride up here, look up the trails in my arear here on RUclips.
Obed M. Thanks for the message. I'd like to try out a TE 300, as I've heard nothing but good things on them.
Turning the idle up on the 350s makes all the difference. More so than a heavy flywheel or a remap
I dont mean to be so off topic but does anyone know a way to get back into an Instagram account..?
I somehow lost the account password. I would love any tricks you can give me
@Dylan Milo Instablaster :)
@Thatcher Amari i really appreciate your reply. I got to the site thru google and I'm in the hacking process atm.
Seems to take quite some time so I will get back to you later with my results.
@Thatcher Amari It worked and I now got access to my account again. Im so happy!
Thank you so much, you saved my ass !
@Dylan Milo glad I could help :D
Just cause you like 2 strokes doesn't mean you need to make 4 strokes look bad there way different in ways we can't agree
Ian C quit complaining and go make your own channel praising 4strokes
Everybody knows that you are a two stroke man
Important note: the gearing is taller on the 350 vs the 300. Many folks in the comments are bashing the Kyle because he didn't use his clutch properly. Yes you are right, slipping the clutch is necessary BUT its also really important to have the correct gearing to go slow without stalling or burning your clutch. I came to this video to confirm what i saw in other comparisons, that the gearing on the 350 is taller meaning each gear will go a higher speed. Kyle s learning this in the video but is still correct that this is a downfall of this bike.
I always love your videos, Kyle. I think the main take away from this is that the Two stroke is an easier bike to ride in these situations. I don’t think the 4 Stroke is any less capable, but you have to ride higher in the RPMs. You either have to really work the clutch, or put in a Rekluse auto clutch. I currently have a 2015 Yz250f that I ride. I bought it thinking I would go to the track, but I quickly found out I much prefer trails. It definitely likes to stall. For now I am going to throw some protective parts on the bike and a rekluse auto until I decide I’m ready to buy a dedicated trail bike. That bike will likely be a KTM 300 Xc-W. I rode a buddy’s newer Husky 300 TE and it really is very hard to stall, even for a novice woods rider like myself. Keep up the good work!
good video Dirtbike channel,dont listen to the obvious trolls' gave up on 4 strokes though when the crank shaft literally snapped in 2 and grenades my motor on my 2007 crf 450,went back to 2 strokes and now ride a kx 250 2003. and a 97 cr5
I read that if you increase the idle speed it helps TREMENDOUSLY on preventing flameout
4t guys don't stress each to their own. If your happy with what you have its all that counts.
Gearing is definitely a game changer. I run a 2014 500EXC with 13/48 and 14/52. Tight technical stuff I am constantly feathering the clutch and keep the revs up, it will plow up and through anything. Thanks for another great video.
Greg Thorne Thanks for the comment. I may play around with the gearing on this 350. Not sure yet.
***** And if pure power was all that mattered, we'd all be riding 1000cc bikes :) Thanks for watching Jim!
Dirt Bike Channel If it has high gearing to pass emissions when sold it will suck on trails. Just like my 500 with stock gearing was awful I switched it to 13-50 like the xcw & it rocks.
Warsrogue
This bike comes with 13-50 gearing stock (the 350 XC-F). Going up to a 52 tooth on the rear would help in certain situations for sure.
It depends on the ride, if you ride with skill and no fear and experience it won't matter, but 2 stroke is wicked power,
love he says flamed out
pull the clutch on build your revs and slip the thing it's bathed in oil for a reason ... use it to keep your revs up and stop you from stalling
Watch some of my newer stuff and you'll notice that I am getting better :) Funny that you don't need to use the clutch on a 300 2 stroke as much. Those things are magic.
Don't get why everybody talks about him being biased towards 2 strokes there's certain things they're better at than 4 strokes I love the 2 stroke but I personally own a 4 stroke. To each their own it's all preference. Great videos man ! Keep it up !
+nothinfinerthana49er Thanks for having my back!
+Dirt Bike Channel your welcome man !
I appreciate your opinion very much. I just can't see myself on a 500 while I'm trail riding places like Hungry Valley. It's 245 lbs dry and I can't help but think that bike would wipe me out if I ever needed to pick it up like your nearly upside down 300. I'm sure either one of your tested bikes would make me very happy. The 300 sounds great because of its light weight and slow speed manners. Great vid, perfect talk to riding ratio. Keep them coming.
Mike James Seriously, I've loved the 300XC-W more than anything else I've ever owned in my life. If you don't mind mixing gas, which isn't a big deal, the 300 XC-W would be a better fit than the 350 XC-F for your needs.
Dirt Bike Channel
I thin k it all depends how you ride if your pro 2-stroke you're going to ride better on a 2-strokes. I would take the 350 but don't get me wrong I love 2-stokes too! I I were rich I would have a stable of both bikes ! 👍I really appreciate the videos you're making for us really cool that you're comparing all these bikes keep up the good work💯🤘🏁
great review! your mix of riding and talking is just fine. keep up the good work.
I literally don't flame out even at a dead stop on my 4 stroke but I think its because I use my clutch lol not a crazy 4 stroke fan or anything just think your used to using a 2 stroke.
TPS tuning was a huge improvement as well. I picked one up from BDSB along with a Snap, Grunt and end cap. Opened the engine up and gave it a little more low end pull. You still need to be on the gas and clutch when the going is slow and steep. They are both great bikes. You are lucky to have the chance to do the comparison. My son runs the 300EXC smoker and it is a beast.
Greg Thorne Yes, I am blessed to be able to own 2 late model (new) bikes to do comparisons with. I like both bikes for different reasons.
I recently went to my local KTM dealer and -- not knowing KTM very well -- told him I needed a good woods/trail bike and that I liked slow, technical riding. He sold me a 350XC-F. And I can attest to the fact that the bike likes to stall and hates going slow. Of course I can adjust my riding style to match it, but I feel I would have been better served with an EXC or XCFW.
+4570shooter I agree with you whole heatedly. Get the W if you want to go slower in the tricky stuff.
Your video completley changes my idea on a 2t vs 4t
I have been really considering a 4t for my seccond bike for low rpms but hearing this changes everything lol
Foster Schutt Yeah get a 300 two stroke and you'll love the low rpm power.
I'm on a 125 two stroke right now, considering a 2010+ two stroke for my next bike. I'm in Pennsylvania and will be doing woods riding and hare scrambles, presuming you ride at least some of that kind of stuff, which woulld you say would work the best: 200xc-w, 250xc/xc-w, or 300xc/xc-w? I feel with a 300 I would put myself into a tree at my expirence level haha.
Foster Schutt I'd look for a 200 XC-W in your case. It would be a great step up from the 125 you are on now.
Foster Schutt Foster. I've owned KTM 300XC's and XC-W's, CRF450, YZ450F, and some other crap. I'm currently on a KTM 250SX converted to a 300SX with a wide ratio gearbox installed and lots of goodies. My 300SX is like a more hyper/intense version of the 300XC. It's pissed off all the time. I've added a flywheel weight, change the jetting, mellower powervalve spring. It helps, but I strongly recommend the 300XC-W for enduro riding. I didn't want the added weight of the starter and all that crap, which is why I have SX. With the wide ratio it does absolutely fine, but you'd better be an aggressive rider if you're going to go the 300SX route. The engines are simply tuned for max HP at the expensive of the low rpm luggability of the XC/XC-W.
CourageOO7
Thanks for sharing. Sounds like you have a pretty sweet setup for your needs!
Use the clutch like your favorite pair of underwear on both bikes and neither will stall!
The not stalling and mild controllable power at low rpm is the main reasons I am considering a KTM 300 2 stroke... I had a WR450 and I liked it a lot but it was hard to ride when it got slow and technical because of the enormous hard to control power at low rpm and tendency to stall very easily. My first real dirtbike was a old 1983 KX125 MX bike and that was ironically enough more easy to ride in the slow and technical then the WR450 as it had very mild throttle response at low rpm and did not stall that easy. Ideally I would like to have both a KTM 500 and a 300 2 stroke :)
A great/dynamic rider can probably make anything work but it sure seems like 2-strokes are the bike of choice in the big hare scrambles/enduro races. I was down to the 350xc-f, 300xc or the 250xc and after riding all three I fell in love with the 250xc. Great power/weight ratio, no crazy vibration, no high compression issues... I definitely prefer the 2-stroke. For the track though... probably 4-stroke.
+linkbeat I could not have said it better than you just did. Good work.
+Dirt Bike Channel Thanks, love the vids, keep up the good work!
Thanks to your videos I have added a 2017 300 XC-W to the stable of bikes for next year. It will be interesting to see if I like it more than the 450 CRF-X or as much as I like the 400 EXC. Im excited to be back on a 2 stroke. Thank you for the great videos.
Great Video.
I have the Beta 300 and a 15 300XC. Everyone says why two 300's...let me tell you they are very different bikes! Ever get Down into NM let me know and we can compare them all!
Great vids man.
***** Thanks Ken!
Love my 525 but these vids make me miss my two strokes. Keep up the good work!
gootsAr15 Yes, each bike tends to be it's own animal and each is great in certain ways.
PS sorry i rec. got a 15 450 XCW ..should probably change my user name but ol faithful is still in the garage
it all comes down to CHARACTER. Each of them have there own character. It's not just about which is best. Each characteristic is suited for different reasons like, terrain,weather,ability,ect. Also from personal experience the riders personality is a huge factor. I always loved 2 strokes. As a 15yr old my bike of choice was a 86 CR500. There is just too many variables to choose which is superior
Loving the"classic" two stroke vs four stroke battle! My 450 would pull the socks off the 300 tho! Had to get it in sorry!
Anthony Hendley Anthony, that depends on what trail we are on! Truth brother :) Thanks for watching!
I keep thinking taking 2 stroke (300) or 4 stroke (350). Thanks you for sharing your videos! Awesome!!!
I put a fly wheel weight on my 14 350 xcf and it does not stall much. Also try feathering the clutch a lot in tight technical terrain. It Will make the bike heat up faster. But at least you’ll make it to the top!
I'm going back to a 4T after owning a '16 300 XCW. The '17 350 XC-F will get a 13t counter sprocket and spring change before it ever sees dirt (also real hand guards, flex bars, skid plate, sparky, etc). Part of the change is vibration/hand issues. Had a '17 250 SX, and the vibration is better, but still worse than the 4t. Even with a Lectron carb, the 350 will have more fuel range. This isn't the 1st video I've seen where a 2t rider had stalling issues at 1st on a 4t.
You should try changing the rear sprocket. I was having the same issue stalling on my 350 exc 4 stroke and when i changed the rear sprocket it changed my life and I never flame out now. Thanks for the awesome video!! Nice to see a comparison of 2 stock bikes.
+Michael Fischer I have long since sold the 350 to make room for other bikes to test. I do miss that bike though...
haha thought the video was more recent! keep up the videos very helpful.
Another awesome video! Great Job!
More of the riding would have been good, or maybe just a slower fast forward so more could be seen, otherwise it was a good length.
go down one tooth on the 4-stroke , problem solved. I have a 09 kx250f which I took out riding xc and hare scramble racing. I was killing the engine all the time until I put a bigger sprocket on the back. Runs like a champ now and i'm not even a good rider. I'm c -class. Really it comes down to the rider. Ride what suites you best. I've had 2-strokes as well. I had a kdx200 . What a great bike! I never should have sold it. I needed the money at the time. Anyway, ride on man, have fun!
qynsar Rock on brother!
Nice video man! I started with 250 carb two stroke and got rid of it for a 350xcf. So different. Both awesome. Wish I could have both but oh well!
Also if they are worth it?
My husqvarna comes with the stock hand guards. I could return what I bought no problem and would save me lots of money. What do you think
This is not really a fair comparison. I dont think many would argue that the 2-stroke has a lot more power than that 350 4-stroke, if youre hillclimbing in 2nd and it bogs out, I dont think that is an error on the bike. Im definitely a 2-stroke guy but im also a guy of fair comparisons.
In the video, I'm trying to ride the bikes up the hill as fast as I can. One of them is easier than the other. That is the comparison.
QRC How is it not the bikes fault? It's engine fires every OTHER revolution, so stalls/flame-outs are much more common at low rpm...a 2-stroke like a 300 xc will chug all day above idle because of its engine...at the same exact lugging rpm a 4 stroke will likely stall...so I ask again, how is NOT the bikes fault?
The 300 XC-W is a awesome fun bike right out of the box, once you set the suspension up for your weight and riding ability it becomes a unbeatable trail weapon. I'm actually shocked the two stroke has more low end torque over the four stroke.
Dirt Bike Channel. I see you definitely hit a sensitive nerve here with the 2T 4T comparison. Reading through the comments here its clear that everyone has an opinion, informed or completely subjective. Tough crowd, but I'm sure you know you cant please everyone. Anyway, I think you doing a great job with this channel, keep up the good work.
dude!!!put a rekluse on that 350!i know you dont want to feel like your cheatin,,butlook at it as a improvement to the bike!..ive been enjoying your films,thank you for the time it takes to make them!sitting home after surgury wishin i was ridin!i would love to ride out there by you western guys!!looks epic!
+hometownguy71 For me, the idea of using a Rekluse is kind of like buying a sports car with an automatic transmission. Kind of takes the challenge out of it a bit. I have two hands and they both have something really important to do, that is sort of the fun of this sport. One of them can pull the clutch while the other is for the gas and brake. An automatically operated clutch takes some of that challenge away from me. It’s almost like cheating in a way. When I stall my bike on an obstacle or hill, it just means I need to get my crap together and get better.
Does that make sense?
Biased opinions will not change how I feel about 4 strokes. You can cop out "flame out" all you want but I just saw you giving up and blaming the bike
Bradley Goodrich Thanks for jumping to conclusions. You should watch the review I did of this bike before making your next comment.
Just geared too tall. Thats all. No biggie. =)) I guarrentee you, you go up two teeth in the rear and soften the rebound up front a touch and you would have a 300 eater.
Super easy guys. TUNE IT!!
Dirt Bike Channel dude your slapping hand has to be hurting like hell
This video was very much on point, me thinks it is someone else here who is biased... I love both 4 strokes and 2 strokes and see the advantages and disadvantages of both. If I cold afford it I would have a KTM 500 and a KTM 300 2 stroke and ride them both when the conditions suit them best.
You make great high quality videos. Subscribed!
87and66 Thanks for subscribing to the channel!
So does that mean that the difference between XC-W and XC-F is that the W is two stroke and the F is 4 stroke, that’s it?
I just bought the 350 XC-F.....2018 model year
I’ve had four strokes in the past.......just gotta know how to ride them is all......definitely diff than 2 strokes for sure
I’m no expert by any stretch of the imagination but the guy that said you need to learn how to ride them is correct
That’s not a criticism, just an observation is all
I love both two stroke and 4 stroke bikes, I think the main problem was that you're so use to riding the 300 as it can lug way down low as a two stroke can but a 4 stroke can't. You really gotta cover that clutch and when the RPM's get low pull it in and give it some gas to hike them up! You get use to it after you ride it more but I would not say it's the engines fult for sure
+Thom 1888 I agree with you on most points here. Having been switching back and forth between my 4 strokes and my 2 strokes all summer, I will say that 2 strokes are easier to ride in the technical, rocky crap.
Yea I've never tried a 2 stroke but from what i've heard they can be easier to ride out of the box. I bet if you get a auto clutch and some more upgrades she will not flame out as quick. Stay safe on the bike man your channel is great!
Do they mean the XCF-W vs the XCW OR do they mean XCF vs XCW because there's a difference
"I'm more comfortable", and "I made a mistake". Pretty much says it all.
That's a great set up to have where the two bikes perform better in certain areas. I think you'd really like the 300 XC with that 4CS suspension. One of our guys went from a 300 XCW to a 300 XC and he loves it. The Huskys and Betas are pretty amazing too. I rode the Beta 300 and liked it more than the KTM. Love the vids! Keep up the good work!
RiderDestinationsTV Yeah, I'm excited for a 2016 300 XC. I'd like to try a Beta 300R too. I've heard really good things about them.
Why wouldn't you compare the 300XC to the 350 XCF-W, which should avoid many of the "flame outs" that seem to be the only complaint about the four stroke??
I've been riding an 18 300XC-W and a 16 350XC-f back to back in various terrain, and conclusion #1, after 20+ years of racing and the last 15 years spent on a 450, I will probably NEVER buy another 450. They are great if you are in prime shape and spend countless hours riding and training to handle the power, but after you move past that period of your life and you can't ride/train like that, take some advice from us....stop buying 450's, you'll thank us for that decision, I wish I had given up the 450 a long time ago. The 350 I've really enjoyed in the sand dunes because it revs so high that you don't shift nearly as much. The FI is awesome for elevation. BUT, overall I'll take the 300 2-stroke every time because even compared to the light 350 it feels like a mountain bike in comparison. On paper the weight is within a few pounds, but under your butt the 300 feels completely different and the fun factor is 10x the 350. Loving the 300, it's fun factor is off the charts.
I ride a yz250f and I love it. Been looking at the 350 XCF-W for my next bike because I do a lot of trail riding. I've never ridden a 2 stroke so I'm not as comfortable putting money into something completely different.
+John Doe I think you'd be really happy with a 350. Great bike once you get use to it.
Dirt Bike Channel Thanks for the tips! :)
Love the videos. Keep em coming. I ride a wr450. Got a chance to ride a 300 and a 350 back to back, and will definitely say the 350 was my least favorite of all of them. It seriously lacks low end torque.
Michael Bjur I agree that it's soft on the low end torque, but the more I've ridden it, the more I like it. I'm not giving up my 300 two-stoke, but the 350 is growing on me.
Nice comparison, glad I went with the 2 stroker!
Unrelated but what size tires are on your superduty? Leveled? Seen in a few of your videos. Looks great! You do a great job with videos too.
Hey I've got a question for you what kind of ramp are using to get your bikes in your truck? I usually load my bikes by myself and a wide ramp like that would make my life a lot easier! Also I know you're probably doing these reviews with these bikes being in stock form but you should think about getting a rekluse clutch on that four stroke. It helped mine a lot with the stalling out problem in the low RPMs Rocky sections.
Travis Napier It's just a basic 4 wheeler ramp. Makes getting in and out of the truck a whole lot easier. Yeah, I can see why folks would drop 1k on the rekluse clutch on these 350's. I have to admit though, I think that might take some of the fun out of it. Seems like cheating, you know?
Hey mate nice vids id go with the 2t, also what brand of hand guards are on the 2t 300 i havent seen them before and they look good ?
It's a common mistake. People get fixated on what they think is a problem (flame-out) and then it becomes easier and easier 4 that issue to keep popping up. All u have 2 do is 1) adjust your riding style 2) if necessary re-gear the bike for this non motocross/ single track type riding. The bikes are great. 🍻
How can you even compare if you don’t set the sag? That is a MUST. The 350 flames out because its mapping is so lean. The bike has Covid masks on it. I put a slipper clutch in mine and a different ECU. I can run it on an Mx track or hooligan trail rides. I do miss my 2 smoker however this is one hell of a bike. It is an expensive one to modify.
What’s that saying? How fast do you want to go/spend? Great videos. Thanx.
You should list the year of the bikes when you post these videos so people looking for used bikes can go back and compare and not have to guess at the year for comparison
Can't say I've ever heard of "flame out" before. I've heard stalling out and like driving a car or a tractor you stall out because the operator does not know how to properly use the clutch and when.
+Tyler McAllister Glad to introduce new terms to you :)
Where is this trail? How do I get to the trailhead? I live in the Salt Lake area and I'm always looking for good desert single track when the mountains are still covered in snow. Thanks!
reading the comments yeah the pitchforks came out. i have a 350 EXC-F. so kind of similar. i hear you on not being able to do low rpm. you really have to gear them down and rev them to get low speed and keep rpms up. then you have to shift super picky. they're kind of fussy that way. i have a couple sprocket sets because of this. i wouldnt exactly say im dissapointed, but its a weird in-between engine. its almost like riding a 90's 2 stroke but it doesnt have a power band and you can engine brake. its great if you want to cover a lot of ground fast to get somewhere far away and back home. thats my 2 cents. i was looking at your video's, did you ever do a review on the EXC-F? id like to watch that if you did one. also, what brand of bark busters do you run on that 2 stroke? i like how they are the top clamps of the bar mounts.
Just wanted to let you know I have really enjoyed your channel I'm new too the single track scene coming from an mx background I am currently riding a crf450r but your videos and insight are helping me realize I need another bike for this style of riding keep up the great work thanks again
Buck p Yeah, the CRF 450R is a great bike on the track, but it's not best suited on the tight single track. Thanks for watching!
Next time you go down the steep shale part on the 2 stroke put it in neutral and turn the engine off. Then use both front and rear brakes for control. Be sure not to knock the transmission into gear. That will make the bike skid.
Kyle Brotherton, what do you think about the 450 4 strokes? And have you ever ridden a ktm 380cc 2 stroke or a ktm 500cc 4 stroke?
I like how you loaded your bikes in pick up bed. Are the front tires touching? FYI i just bought a YZ 450FX coming off a KX 250 2- stroke. It is a great bike, you should try it if you can. I do suffer from stalling it, most likey due to i am used to riding 2 strokes.
Thanks for your videos!
+Don Rohde Yes, the tires are touching. This allows you to put 2 bikes in a 6.5 foot bed and close the tailgate.
Nice video love your work mate,just wanting to know what size sprockets your running on the 350,I changed my 2016 esc,to 13-53 and it lugs unreal,it's suits my riding style (old bloke ) really well,and my rising erea,I went from 14-50 rear,I was in the clutch a fair bit,thanks again for the videos cheers
Do you think the bikes with the Linkage rear would be ok for harescrambles? I'm torn. I like the xc-f but the PDS option is tempting. I know I'm probably not a good enough rider to notice a difference.
Wow DUDE!!After you've done that talking, you become very fast off-road rider, it really shows on this video!nice riding.
Suomalainen Finn! :)
Hi Kyle, I see you have a Scotts Steering Stabilizer on both bikes. Which are the biggest benefits you see in having a steering stabilizer while riding at very low speed in technical single trail?
It's not really just comparing two stroke to four stroke at this point when one of the bikes is a w and one of them isn't. This 350 4 stroke will do you wonders in the sand though
Chad Hobson Correct. I never said this was 4t vs 2t video. This is just comparing the two bikes on one specific trail. It's a fun comparison and we'll keep doing more of these vids where the 350 will shine over the W.
are you a rider that uses the clutch a lot?
I'm inclined to think that you don't due to the sound of the bike(s)...if you learn to love the clutch it will change the 4 stroke for you in a big way.
I never used to be a clutch using rider (any more than I could get away with at a minimum anyway) but I worked on it and now it makes everything so much easier and see basically zero flame outs (I'm a slower more technical rider too...I don't bother with the fast stuff at all).
Work on your clutch control and you learn to love the 4 stroke too!! :)
Oh, but please note that my next bike is either a 250 or 300 2 stroke, lol...gotta mix it up a little from time to time :P
MatnBec BikeAdventures yeah, I hear what you are saying. Going to have to learn to live on the clutch to keep that 350 running! I've been able to get away with minimal clutching on the 300 two-stroke, and in truth, I was trying to really show the difference. I still like the 350, just not quit as much as my 300.
Good vid Kyle . Ide love to ride up there . There's nothing like that in uk
If you are going to compare a 2 stroke and a 4 stroke get it to where both bike are meant to do what you are comparing to do
I've never ridden up that trail before. Looks pretty rad!
Alex Dorsey It it a fun one, but it can put you on your back in a few spots if you are not on your game!
Great vid Kyle . What a beautiful place Ide love to ride there . Fantastic
Here's something that helps me and my crew in tight spots like what your getn into over and over wit the 4-stroker: When in doubt, GIV' ERRRRR !!!!!! (WIDTO: wen in doubt throttle OUUUUTTTTT) Me papi used ta-says: it ain't the mule, IT'S DA ASS ON DA MULE HAHAHAHAHAHAHA. All kidding aside, love yr videos, always entertaining and informative. Keep up the great work, Bro 🍻
A weighted flywheel would really help stop that stalling out with the 4 stroke. It will get you right over those rocks. Also, get a trials bike and work on climbing over obstacles.
I have the 2015 350sxf an you really have to cover the clutch. my clutch seems alot harder to pull than the other 2015s on the show room at ktm also. it's a fun bike but my next will either be a 300xc or a 250sx with the 300 kit. I ride mostly motocross but enjoy trials also. nice video sir keep up the great work.
+Beau Vandyke Thanks for the input here.
nice channel. I've had many bikes and currently on a KTM450 XCRW, I've yet to have a flame out and find it rides fantastic in those types of trails.
I have had and ridden both on significantly more difficult trails, try Georgetown, CA or Hobble Creek and Cherry Creek, UT, both bikes have their pros and cons but if the 4 stroke is geared right and you know how to use the clutch or add a Rekluse (even better), the 4 stroke is way smoother to ride both uphill and downhill, mine can come to a complete stop and start in gnarly stuff and never flame out (fuel injection, proper gearing, and Rekluse clutch). All around best trail bike 500EXC or XCW unless you are doing Romaniacs and need something light enough to drag over obstacles OR are a smaller lighter rider.
+P Dwelley I've ridden all those areas you are talking about many times. I have a question for you. How much experience to you have on modern 300 2 strokes?
Sorry mate that sounds more like stalling then flame-out. Flame-out is something completely different relating to running too lean, and literally shutting off. Sounds more like you are doing low rpm stalling.
Have you had your suspension set up on either bike? By that I mean, sprung for your weight/revalved. I just dropped my forks off at Fineline suspension in St. George, that guy is super ice and from what I've heard/read on the internet, he's a wizard when it comes to suspesion stuff. Needless to say, I'm pretty excited.
modestmoose83 On both bikes, I've double checked my static sag and then gone ahead and set the rider sag. Didn't have to change the springs for my weight. I wouldn't mind getting the XC-W's shock rebuilt to act more like the shock on the XC-F.
What you claim to be a flameout, is just normal stalling and you should't blame the bike for that. Also there is a clear difference between 2- and 4-stroke but at your pace it shouldn't be noticable since you almost don't rev up at all, where there is the difference in terms of power, torque and engine response. You can clear these sections with a 125cc 4-stroke with 15hp if you get used to the clutch and the lack of power.
+renate ruschka The point of this video was to highlight that the bikes are very different. One isn't better than the other, but one of them is EASIER to ride on trails such as this. Thanks for watching.
rev that 4 stroke up!