Same in the off-road market. If Yamaha would put an electric start on the Two stroke offroad bikes, as well as offer a 300cc two stroke, they would steal so much of the market share from KTM.
If, and I hope it's more "when" Yamaha updates their big bore 2-strokes, I will be first in line to put a deposit down. For now, it doesn't make much sense to buy a new one when I can refresh my YZ250 and it's essentially still the same bike that they sell new.
@@russsavage1611😂😂😂😂😂 I will never understand that no word with the letters z is pronounced the way ppl say the letter z it's not pronounced zedoo it's the zoo. I've always been curious as to why is pronounced that way only when it's alone
@@GARBO96 I admit I've been curious myself. It's super cool though. I may just think that because I have a fascination/obsession with Aussie culture :)
Another 350 Mx rider here fully stock apart from cone valve forks, had a 2017 which I put 170hrs on. And my current 2020 with 64hrs on and I’m hooked, couldn’t agree more. I can’t see myself owning another 4 stroke that isn’t a 350 or does every I need completely out the box motor and gearing wise. I’ve recently tried the very popular 23 yzf250 and honestly wasn’t blown away because how spoiled I’ve been with the 350 motor and how I’m used to riding in the mid range grunt
Good explanation about why it feels so much better than a 450, I was gonna say center of mass but crank mass is what it is. Love my 350, been to Loretta’s twice on a 350 in the vet class and it’s more than capable.
The ktm 350 is sooooo nice. I raced woods and excelled in the tight stuff. A 250f was always good fun but lacking power. On a mx track I had to ride it like a 2 stroke. A 450f was too much weight and too much power to finesse single track and mud sections but you could ride one gear everywhere. The 350 really is the best of both! It has as much power as you need (450 has EXCESS power) while being light and nimble like a 250f! I even had the chance to ride a 22 xc with the A kit WP TRAX and cone valves.... that was the most amazing bike I've ever ridden.
Fascinating that KTM has gotten so huge over the years. When I saw their first Supercross win back in 2001, I could never have imagined they would grow to be the giant they are. Hard to believe the Japanese STILL haven’t caught up, let alone surpass KTM. I do know their customer relations are far superior than any other manufacturer.🏁
After running a yz450fx and then a yz250fx, I switched to a GasGas xc350 and I looooove it! A yz350f would be amazing but I'm never going back to a 450. Church of 350!
Just had a 350 gasgas 23 mxer, and I’ve ridden on air forks once before as a enduro rider if was racing mx I’d definitely run air forks compared to spring! Way lighter feel and I’ve only ridden them stock! Everyone raves how a Yamaha has good suspension which kyb is. But I felt that the WP was very very good too. Really impressed.
I have been hoping Yamaha will build a modern single track 2 stroke bike to compete against all the 300's out their today. I am still riding my 2006 YZ250 since it was new which indicates how long its been. The 250x maybe a good bike but I think Yamaha could make a world class modern 300 two stroke if they wanted to. After 50+ years on Yamaha two strokes and asking Yamaha to make such a bike many times I decided I will buy a non Yamaha 300 2 stroke.
The KTM 350 is the GSXR 750 of the dirt world. You want that size and there’s only 1 place to get it. I’ve been church of the 750 for the road for 20 years, and now I have to show up to church of the 350 for the late service. Sundays are totally booked out now, don’t even have time for chicken and green beans…
I feel Yamaha is the only Japanese OEM that also could do it because they’re the most innovative. You look at all the stuff they’ve done to the YZ from the airbox location, reverse leaning cylinder, power tuning apps and even now offering both a cable and hydro clutch. You can visibly see a difference in the Yamaha whereas the Honda and kawi are very reserved in their technology and that’s not meant to dig at them as they’re fantastic bikes and Suzuki still got a kick starter in 2022 ( don’t mind the kicker it’s an example of them being left behind) . A YZ350F would be great for vet riders and can tell you at least in Maryland, the reason so many are turned away from the euro’s are there isn’t as much dealer support here as compared to Yamaha, Kawi and especially Honda.
There would also be a big market is woods racing as well. Kaleb Russell 8x xc1 gncc champ rode a ktm 350 and so did 1x champ Ben Kelly. But I hardly see anyone run them outside ktm sponsored guys. Most of the none sponsored guys run 450 Japanese bikes or 2 strokes because ktm parts are expensive and hard to get. A 350 yz or cfr wood addition would easily be the most sold bike.
Totally agree that the Japanese manufacturer's are starting to fall behind. I'm predominantly a woods / trail rider. Our whole riding crew talks about how if Honda, Yamaha, Kawi made 300cc two stroke trail bikes, they would fly out the door. Like right now, you've basically got your choice of color in terms of the "KTM" you want.....Orange, Red, or Blue and Yellow.
I have to agree with kris, I have a 17 350 with a race tech spring conversion, changed the bike completely and made it 10,000x better. I will probably never get a bike other then a 350 ever again it’s just perfect.
Just got me a 2023 350 , best bike I have ever had , however I do agree with the suspension it's a little bit of a headache to set up , wish they could come out with a KYB 🤘😎
I’m a Honda guy thru and thru. I’ve considered buying a CRF250RX and put a 300 big bore kit but after seeing the cost and trouble to do it I’ll Likely be buying a KTM or GasGas 350F XC bike.
I don’t like the 350, I’ve ridden a fc450re and that bike compared to other 450 is incredibly smooth/mellow so I don’t see the point a 450 can be mellowed out and would be more reliable if your not reviving it’s guts out. To be honest I’d rather our sport go back to 2 strokes there cheaper and you get rid most inertia. I’m not completely against 350’s I don’t want brands to get rid of 450’s.
I stepped down from a 450f to a 250f and became a faster, better, safer, more confident rider and my enjoyment went through the roof. I also rode the KTM200 2st and that was a perfect clubman bike for those of us who were just a little bit heavy for the 125cc. My skill level was the single biggest limiting factor not engine size / horsepower. A modern 350 can be tuned to the moon for the pro rider so for me all manufacturers should bin the 450 and the 350 takes over. What did RC say "no rider needs more than 60hp?"
@@ericschmidt5996I really liked my 250f but it there were a few doubles that I could not completely clear. Specifically doubles right out of a corner, without room to gain speed. On my 250 2stroke I could seat bounce in second and pop right over. Everywhere else on the track it was fine. Absolutely terrible on dunes, def 450 is the way to go there. Or at least 250 2stroke Also I weight 240lbs and I'm 6'4"
I wanna hear from the boy's, im mainly a 2 stroke cat but my brother has a 21 crf250r. Im not very versed in the 4 stroke engine maintenance intervals except a little while ago everyone was saying the 4 strokes are only good for 90hrs. So id like to know How long are you guys running these motors before you start tearing them down and building them back up?
🆘 The Japanese are smart. The manufacturing cost does not pencil out. The number of potential “KTM” 350 riders that will switch over isn’t there. The guys that like the Japanese bikes will continue to purchase what is available (250/450). There is a reason we all turn on the TV and watch the 250 and 450 Main Event.
Totally different kind of spring fork. They aren’t not running them because they’re heavier. Lol. That has absolutely zero to do with it. That’s ktm company line to make the consumer feel better about sub par forks across all their models. The xplor forks are open chamber and they’re valved terribly. They’re insanely soft, not really safe over 30 mph if your aggressive. They absolutely would not work well for moto or sx. There’s a reason they put em on the enduro bikes. Great enduro fork. Terrible for everything else. I own a few bikes with them. As well as a few without.
If the Japanese brands started making 350s I think there would still be a market for 450s such as bigger riders, desert racing, and it's the ultimate modern lug machine. It might shrink the market a little bit but I think the 450 is well liked enough to stay around.
Had a Gasgas factory edition, first Austrian bike owned..didnt like it sold at 7 hours, Tried a Gasgas 350 and wasnt too impressed, it was fast but had to rev it way up high to get the power, once up there it did keep pulling but wasnt as crazy about it as all the hype i heard. Now on a 22' Kx450 and i love it..ive ridden Honda and Yamaha 450s and they are too powerful imo..i like the Much slower kawie..feels more like a 400 if that makes sense.. Vet A level Rider
Its because there isn't a 350 class in motocross or supercross ... They focus on the two classes that are being raced in supercross/motocross , don't really see em in hard enduro etc over in Europe on the RedBull series like husky, KTM etc.
Late to this chat but I've been wishing the Honda gods would make a 350 for a while, not to race but for all around stuff. The 300 wasn't powerful enough so I went with the 450L. Amazing bike, now pretty modded out and does everything I want but there are many times I wish I had a slightly smaller, less powerful bike. Still there is no progress on this front.
Pretty funny..... here I am trying to figure out how to get my 250 fx forks on a ktm 350 wishing for a 350 fx or a ktm wo aer forks..... this is such a no brainer.
Yamaha may not have to redo an entire motor to come up with a 350F. The first generation YZ400f had a 92mm bore and 60.1mm stroke for a 399.5 cc. The current YZ450f has a 97mm bore and a 60.8mm stroke for a 449.3cc. But if it takes that YZ450f and drops the bore down to a 92mm while leaving the stroke at 60.8mm they'll have a 404.1cc engine which will essentially be a YZ400f. Red-Moto Honda has done something similar with the CRF450RX and brought the displacement down to a 413cc (w/92mm bore and 62.1mm stroke) and it was a lot more rideable for the woods and enduro.
I finally tried a 350 after years of listening to this podcast that it’s the greatest thing of all time.. I was disappointed the fork is so bad.. the power was good could hold a gear a little longer than my kx250 but I definitely won’t be selling my kawis anytime soon.. if a Japanese brand made a 350 I’d definitely be more inclined to buy it…
The fork ruins any ktm regardless of engine size. Totally different bikes when you get a spring fork on them. I mean literally different like you bought a new bike. Idk why they use that dog shit aer fork. They’re absolutely terrible. Even the new 22 ones.
I’ve heard is there wasnt much left to do on 2 stroke to make it faster or better. So they moved on to the 4 stroke because there more parts more things to change and make it better.
@@traxxasrc10 2 stroke can still be improved. It's just that yes the manufacturers initially wanted the extra income. But now that high cost is hurting the sport. Also in the bigger cc bikes it comes down to ease of riding and power delivery. A 500 two stroke is "faster" than a 450 but both a 450 and 500 already make enough power to be spinning your wheel. A 450 is just easier and less tiring to out that power down. Same reason I'm faster on my slower 250f than my 250 two stroke around a track.
As of Oct 2024, everyone is probably aware of the internet buzz about Kailub Russell supposedly getting hired by Yamaha to run GNCC (XC-1) to help develop a YZ350FX. Maybe?? If true, what could be in the works is: 1) WR250/450F possibly gone and replaced by ... 2) YZ350FX which will cover the needs of GNCC XC-1 riders/Average Joe MX or any other off-road application while the YZ450F(X) would cover the needs of Pro MX, SX & western off-road riders. 3) WR350R beefed up enough to get dual-sport reliability and maintenance schedules & corked up just enough to get past the CARB/Euro 5 emissions. A 6-speed gearbox for the YZ350FX & WR350R would be very nice to.
In defense of Japanese engineering, there is a reason why it's so meticulous and high quality. That same culture of detail and precision and patience, also finds its way to procedure aka "red tape". That said, it takes someone special at the companies to make things move fast and push new ideas but when they do they can build something special. Whether it's Gshock or the Lexus LFA, it takes somebody with vision, position and gaman. The culture of "move fast and break things" in the west doesn't exist in Japan. You do things the "right way". Of course this makes innovation more difficult but it also gives the confidence that Japanese products will work and are made with care. As far as the 350 vs 450 question, I fully agree, it's the rotational mass, which shows as they gryoscope affect. When the 450 gets out of control, it takes a lot to bring it back and sometimes you can't physically do it. I had a friend who loved 450's when he was in control, but when he'd crashed it would be really bad. The 350 suited him way way better. That said when you are "on it" with a 450, it's a pretty special feeling too.
Don't ride motocross, but just from an off-road pov don't the 250cc MX bikes have tons of power? I get that the 450's are too stiff and too dangerous for amateurs, but the 250's make like 40hp. How much do you really need to go round a full size motorcross track recreationally? For example, KTM's SX-F 250-350-450 lineup is dynoed at 40, 50, and 55hp respectively. Is it not just about the peak power? Is it low end torque or weight or frame stiffness that is making the big difference between a 450 and 350 rideability?
I have a 2020 YZ450 and Keefer is right about KTMs. The suspension they come with is the reason I don't consider buying. Would definitely buy a YZ350 though!
I totally agree and imagine how much things would advance if you allowed a 350 2 stroke to be developed and race in the same class!!!! Or are 4 strokes simply not good enough!!!!
Excuse me I had a 350 , I had it for 2 years . But in some way i cannot get along with ktm,s . I rode more 125 ktm when I was racing 20 years ago . Same story . A Japanese bike fits me …. And a ktm not
im convinced that at the very very top of massive companies like Yamaha and probably Honda as well , those people DO NOT care about the dirtbikes and dirtbike divisions of their companies. Dirtbikes is probably the last thing they are concerned about making changes to in order to meet market requests from people like us. IF they payed attention to it for even a week they'd realize they need to start making 300cc two strokes with electric start starting 3 years ago , and a 350cc mx/woods bike starting 2 years ago. I think the KTM group dominated the market not because they build the best bikes ever , but because they are a dirtbike company first and they know the market and listened to theyre customers.
I put a 300 red Moto big bore kit in my 23 CRF250RX and it’s awesome. Also they make a gas tank that is much better than stock. The Japanese will never build a 350. They would be admitting they mistake by not building one. They are stubborn. I was told this by a Honda mechanic. The Japanese did this to the 2 stroke as well. Many jumped ship then.
@@dregsta we don't get much snow in the UK so pointless here , I bet they are great fun though . Id have thought you would need a 450 though for a timbersled .
The only thing that would happen going to a 350f would bring back the 250 2 stroke. People understood withing a couple a years it was the 450's ability to start that helped them win races. You bring in a 350 and the 250 2 stroke will come back, then there goes the four stroke revolution.
I don't get why everyone shits on the air fork. Once you find your setting they're great. The only annoying thing is you have to measure/adjust the pressure at the start of the day.
I won’t get a Ktm I’ve got 2023 WR 250f it’s fully uncorked competition ECU and it’s CCU and I love mine it’s basically a yz with 6 gears right . And I’ve got the 2024 yz250x and a 2001 yz i will always be team blue
I would buy a YZ350f day one! I actually got rid of my 2013 CRF450R for a Husqvarna FE350 and it was unmistakably amazing. It rides like a 250f (it revs to the moon) but with way better power across the entire RPM range. My next bike will be either a KTM350, Husqvarna 350 or Gas Gas 350. If any of the Japanese manufacturers put out a 350 I'd definitely consider it especially Yamaha or Kawasaki as they make my favorite 250f bikes so I can only imagine how amazing their 35o would be. The AMA needs to push for 350's in professional racing. So many pro riders say that the 450 has outgrown the stadium, they're too powerful, they aren't fun to ride. I believe a 350 premier class would be perfect and it would make the jump from 250f easier. The KTM 350 is the best selling MX bike year after year, why? It's brilliant ✌️
@@ryderdavison9020 Alessi was never much of a SX rider and with Outdoors a 350 loses most of it's advantages. Look at how AC222 eventually dropped the 350 for the 450 and all the KTM group factory boys went 450 in MXGP. That being said, I think SX would still be a format that the 350 would outperform the 450 most races (not Daytona or Atlanta)
I've got a 22 Husky 350. Best bike I've ever ridden in every way, EXCEPT the forks. They are shit. They've never felt right since the day I got it. I'm 90kgs. They always feel hard and bouncy so you don't ever trust the front wheel to really lean into it. Don't get me wrong, I still ride quick on it, but that's due to how good the engine is and how balanced the chassis is. Air forks are shit. Can we just put it down to a bad experience and move on back to springs already...
so true!!!was riding yamahas for years, when they wouldnt upgrade there bikes i went euro....and havent been back. im just a punter who has to actually buy his bikes,as good as the yammies were if you wont give me what i want when i want it ktm will...
He said I'm going to meet with the Japanese I'm going to try to convince them 🤣🤣 look at Keefer's face he knows what's up when you deal with a manufacturer that large. You're talking YEARS bro.
Said a year ago , say it again YZ450 is beautiful, works for me, ya want a 350 , buy 1. I personally love HP & long jeopardy from a 450, because I can’t ride hard enough to hurt it, but I love the fun factor.
If you watch riders doing a 350 v 450 lap comparison video, most if not all the riders are faster on the 350. Now if you are riding a 350 for a whole moto then you'll probably be even faster overall because it won't tire you out as much as a 450 does. The Japanese manufacturers need to start making 350's.
@@MrFPSWisconsin Cairoli, a multi time world champ rode the 350 for quite a while. I guess he must not have been good enough according to your standards…😂🤡
The reason people don’t want to buy Ktms is because their 250 cost more than a Japanese 450. It would be interesting to see the price point of a Japanese 350 being maybe between a 250 and 450
450 tuned down is everything a 350 could be but with a ceiling to the power most can't use. Why create a different bike that can't do anything a tuned down 450 can?
They should just make 125/250/500 2t again. Prices cut by 1/3rd....more riders, less maintenance costs. Lower speeds/ less major injuries. More bike sales. Smells great, less filling
If we had a 350cc National Championship, or change 450 to 350, then Japan will make them. They should have three classes. 125cc 2-stroke/175cc 4-stroke, 250cc 2 & 4-stroke, Open cc 2-stroke/450cc 4-stroke.
Same in the off-road market. If Yamaha would put an electric start on the Two stroke offroad bikes, as well as offer a 300cc two stroke, they would steal so much of the market share from KTM.
Yamaha 2t is so much less refined than ktms counterbalanced 2t, they would get some but not as big as you'd think.
If, and I hope it's more "when" Yamaha updates their big bore 2-strokes, I will be first in line to put a deposit down. For now, it doesn't make much sense to buy a new one when I can refresh my YZ250 and it's essentially still the same bike that they sell new.
Us old guys wouldn't have to sit for 5 minutes and catch her breath so we could stand the bike up AND kick start it after we fell down
KTM sucks
IMO, they would sell more mx bikes, but the KTMs are vastly different and superior off road bikes to bike to the yz-x
When Yamaha makes the 350 we must all refer to it only as “The Gypsy”. But yeah I’d definitely get one as well.
This should be the pinned comment
@@GARBO96 And then if someone asks "What's the gypsy?" You have to say Y-"ZED"-350 regardless of what country you are from or in. LMAO
@@russsavage1611😂😂😂😂😂 I will never understand that no word with the letters z is pronounced the way ppl say the letter z it's not pronounced zedoo it's the zoo. I've always been curious as to why is pronounced that way only when it's alone
@@GARBO96 I admit I've been curious myself. It's super cool though. I may just think that because I have a fascination/obsession with Aussie culture :)
Its from the Greek name of the letter- Zeta = Zed.
Two-strokes rule!
Another 350 Mx rider here fully stock apart from cone valve forks, had a 2017 which I put 170hrs on. And my current 2020 with 64hrs on and I’m hooked, couldn’t agree more. I can’t see myself owning another 4 stroke that isn’t a 350 or does every I need completely out the box motor and gearing wise. I’ve recently tried the very popular 23 yzf250 and honestly wasn’t blown away because how spoiled I’ve been with the 350 motor and how I’m used to riding in the mid range grunt
I 💯 agree with this. I would buy a yz 350f in a heartbeat! Really hope the Japanese OEM get going
Good explanation about why it feels so much better than a 450, I was gonna say center of mass but crank mass is what it is. Love my 350, been to Loretta’s twice on a 350 in the vet class and it’s more than capable.
The ktm 350 is sooooo nice. I raced woods and excelled in the tight stuff. A 250f was always good fun but lacking power. On a mx track I had to ride it like a 2 stroke. A 450f was too much weight and too much power to finesse single track and mud sections but you could ride one gear everywhere. The 350 really is the best of both! It has as much power as you need (450 has EXCESS power) while being light and nimble like a 250f!
I even had the chance to ride a 22 xc with the A kit WP TRAX and cone valves.... that was the most amazing bike I've ever ridden.
I would hope a brand new bike with $5000 suspension would feel really good my man.
Click bait mate got me again... respect
Fascinating that KTM has gotten so huge over the years. When I saw their first Supercross win back in 2001, I could never have imagined they would grow to be the giant they are. Hard to believe the Japanese STILL haven’t caught up, let alone surpass KTM. I do know their customer relations are far superior than any other manufacturer.🏁
After running a yz450fx and then a yz250fx, I switched to a GasGas xc350 and I looooove it! A yz350f would be amazing but I'm never going back to a 450. Church of 350!
Just had a 350 gasgas 23 mxer, and I’ve ridden on air forks once before as a enduro rider if was racing mx I’d definitely run air forks compared to spring! Way lighter feel and I’ve only ridden them stock! Everyone raves how a Yamaha has good suspension which kyb is. But I felt that the WP was very very good too. Really impressed.
I have been hoping Yamaha will build a modern single track 2 stroke bike to compete against all the 300's out their today. I am still riding my 2006 YZ250 since it was new which indicates how long its been. The 250x maybe a good bike but I think Yamaha could make a world class modern 300 two stroke if they wanted to. After 50+ years on Yamaha two strokes and asking Yamaha to make such a bike many times I decided I will buy a non Yamaha 300 2 stroke.
My sherco 300 is awesome.
The KTM 350 is the GSXR 750 of the dirt world. You want that size and there’s only 1 place to get it. I’ve been church of the 750 for the road for 20 years, and now I have to show up to church of the 350 for the late service. Sundays are totally booked out now, don’t even have time for chicken and green beans…
Yamaha SSS forks are simply the best ! A 350 YZ / WR would out sell everyone.
“Keefer goes off on Yamaha…”Gypsy the only one really talking. 😂
Loves a clickbait title
to be fair, out of all interviewers, he's usually the only one who talks more than his guests
Jase actually gives us fire content though and he's already explained its what he has to do. Its how youtube works.
Yeah what else is new haha
Keefer has plenty to say
I feel Yamaha is the only Japanese OEM that also could do it because they’re the most innovative. You look at all the stuff they’ve done to the YZ from the airbox location, reverse leaning cylinder, power tuning apps and even now offering both a cable and hydro clutch. You can visibly see a difference in the Yamaha whereas the Honda and kawi are very reserved in their technology and that’s not meant to dig at them as they’re fantastic bikes and Suzuki still got a kick starter in 2022 ( don’t mind the kicker it’s an example of them being left behind) . A YZ350F would be great for vet riders and can tell you at least in Maryland, the reason so many are turned away from the euro’s are there isn’t as much dealer support here as compared to Yamaha, Kawi and especially Honda.
There would also be a big market is woods racing as well. Kaleb Russell 8x xc1 gncc champ rode a ktm 350 and so did 1x champ Ben Kelly. But I hardly see anyone run them outside ktm sponsored guys. Most of the none sponsored guys run 450 Japanese bikes or 2 strokes because ktm parts are expensive and hard to get. A 350 yz or cfr wood addition would easily be the most sold bike.
Dude ever cairoli killed it on a 350 in Mxgp
Let’s be honest the gay rainbow color ktm bikes are 🗑! Made in China now and going bankrupt faster than the United States!
Yamahas are terrible man, you want an motocross/enduro bike, get an austrian bike
@@jeffgayzose8129I see more KTM 350 in off-road new England racing (non mx) than 450's
Totally agree that the Japanese manufacturer's are starting to fall behind. I'm predominantly a woods / trail rider. Our whole riding crew talks about how if Honda, Yamaha, Kawi made 300cc two stroke trail bikes, they would fly out the door. Like right now, you've basically got your choice of color in terms of the "KTM" you want.....Orange, Red, or Blue and Yellow.
i thought the yz400f came out before a honda 4 stroke... in fact that is true. did you mean honda was first conceptually?
I didn't understand that statement either.
2017 ktm 350 owner here. 350's are the funnest bikes out there. I hope yamaha do make a 350.
Don't even get me started on a 6 speed, elec start yz250x for serious hard enduro ... bike would out sell all enduro bikes straight up
fantic actually does this, they build a yamaha based 300cc four stroke and also a yz 250 based 300 enduro!🔥
In 92 we put a 360 kit on a YZ250 and it was a beast!!!
I am a longtime Yamaha guy. Been riding Austrian 350’s since ‘18.
I have to agree with kris, I have a 17 350 with a race tech spring conversion, changed the bike completely and made it 10,000x better. I will probably never get a bike other then a 350 ever again it’s just perfect.
as a free rider guy that loves jumps, I think i’ll keep the 450 lol
Just got me a 2023 350 , best bike I have ever had , however I do agree with the suspension it's a little bit of a headache to set up , wish they could come out with a KYB 🤘😎
Had a Honda crf250
Switched to beta 390
Happy so far
I just bought a 24 ktm 350 partially because of you raving about them. It’s the most fun bike I’ve ever ridden
I’m a Honda guy thru and thru. I’ve considered buying a CRF250RX and put a 300 big bore kit but after seeing the cost and trouble to do it I’ll Likely be buying a KTM or GasGas 350F XC bike.
I don’t like the 350, I’ve ridden a fc450re and that bike compared to other 450 is incredibly smooth/mellow so I don’t see the point a 450 can be mellowed out and would be more reliable if your not reviving it’s guts out. To be honest I’d rather our sport go back to 2 strokes there cheaper and you get rid most inertia. I’m not completely against 350’s I don’t want brands to get rid of 450’s.
I love my 19 350 sxf. Can’t imagine riding anything else. Of Yamaha made one of buy it tomorrow
My 2020 350fx is hands down my favorite dirtbike of all time.
I stepped down from a 450f to a 250f and became a faster, better, safer, more confident rider and my enjoyment went through the roof. I also rode the KTM200 2st and that was a perfect clubman bike for those of us who were just a little bit heavy for the 125cc. My skill level was the single biggest limiting factor not engine size / horsepower. A modern 350 can be tuned to the moon for the pro rider so for me all manufacturers should bin the 450 and the 350 takes over. What did RC say "no rider needs more than 60hp?"
Yea I don’t see how anybody really needs more power than a 250f unless they are truly an expert rider. My 250f hauls my ass a round nonproblem
@@ericschmidt5996 I can see why someone would prefer the 450. They're lower maintenance, really good for lugging, bigger riders, and desert racing.
@@ericschmidt5996I really liked my 250f but it there were a few doubles that I could not completely clear. Specifically doubles right out of a corner, without room to gain speed. On my 250 2stroke I could seat bounce in second and pop right over.
Everywhere else on the track it was fine.
Absolutely terrible on dunes, def 450 is the way to go there. Or at least 250 2stroke
Also I weight 240lbs and I'm 6'4"
I wanna hear from the boy's, im mainly a 2 stroke cat but my brother has a 21 crf250r. Im not very versed in the 4 stroke engine maintenance intervals except a little while ago everyone was saying the 4 strokes are only good for 90hrs. So id like to know How long are you guys running these motors before you start tearing them down and building them back up?
One more member of the choir here. I have ridden all the Yamaha models since 2013 and would LOVE a YZ 350F.
🆘 The Japanese are smart. The manufacturing cost does not pencil out. The number of potential “KTM” 350 riders that will switch over isn’t there. The guys that like the Japanese bikes will continue to purchase what is available (250/450). There is a reason we all turn on the TV and watch the 250 and 450 Main Event.
Went to a ktm freeride. Had a built up cr250. When I left I bought a husky 300 will never look back
Same with a yz300e,they would sell heaps.
Grew up on all the Japanese bikes bought first new ktm 250 xcfw first orange bike and will never go back to the others its that good.
Yamaha 450 plated bike. Also sell every bike!!
Where’s the “goes off on Yamaha!!” part? I heard a lot of KTM 350 talk. Besides, I’d still take the YZ450F.
Can someone tell Kriss that KTM actually has spring forks.
The Enduro (EXC) riders use it but the Mx riders think it is heavier so they run air insted
Totally different kind of spring fork. They aren’t not running them because they’re heavier. Lol. That has absolutely zero to do with it. That’s ktm company line to make the consumer feel better about sub par forks across all their models. The xplor forks are open chamber and they’re valved terribly. They’re insanely soft, not really safe over 30 mph if your aggressive. They absolutely would not work well for moto or sx. There’s a reason they put em on the enduro bikes. Great enduro fork. Terrible for everything else. I own a few bikes with them. As well as a few without.
But would it kill the 450 market?
If the Japanese brands started making 350s I think there would still be a market for 450s such as bigger riders, desert racing, and it's the ultimate modern lug machine. It might shrink the market a little bit but I think the 450 is well liked enough to stay around.
Where can we watch the whole video podcast.
Had a Gasgas factory edition, first Austrian bike owned..didnt like it sold at 7 hours, Tried a Gasgas 350 and wasnt too impressed, it was fast but had to rev it way up high to get the power, once up there it did keep pulling but wasnt as crazy about it as all the hype i heard. Now on a 22' Kx450 and i love it..ive ridden Honda and Yamaha 450s and they are too powerful imo..i like the Much slower kawie..feels more like a 400 if that makes sense.. Vet A level Rider
Its because there isn't a 350 class in motocross or supercross ... They focus on the two classes that are being raced in supercross/motocross , don't really see em in hard enduro etc over in Europe on the RedBull series like husky, KTM etc.
Late to this chat but I've been wishing the Honda gods would make a 350 for a while, not to race but for all around stuff. The 300 wasn't powerful enough so I went with the 450L. Amazing bike, now pretty modded out and does everything I want but there are many times I wish I had a slightly smaller, less powerful bike. Still there is no progress on this front.
Pretty funny..... here I am trying to figure out how to get my 250 fx forks on a ktm 350 wishing for a 350 fx or a ktm wo aer forks..... this is such a no brainer.
Yamaha may not have to redo an entire motor to come up with a 350F. The first generation YZ400f had a 92mm bore and 60.1mm stroke for a 399.5 cc. The current YZ450f has a 97mm bore and a 60.8mm stroke for a 449.3cc. But if it takes that YZ450f and drops the bore down to a 92mm while leaving the stroke at 60.8mm they'll have a 404.1cc engine which will essentially be a YZ400f. Red-Moto Honda has done something similar with the CRF450RX and brought the displacement down to a 413cc (w/92mm bore and 62.1mm stroke) and it was a lot more rideable for the woods and enduro.
The KTM 250SX-F and 350SX-F share the same bottom end but with a stroker crank! Piston, cylinder and cylinder head are totally different!
I finally tried a 350 after years of listening to this podcast that it’s the greatest thing of all time.. I was disappointed the fork is so bad.. the power was good could hold a gear a little longer than my kx250 but I definitely won’t be selling my kawis anytime soon.. if a Japanese brand made a 350 I’d definitely be more inclined to buy it…
The fork ruins any ktm regardless of engine size. Totally different bikes when you get a spring fork on them. I mean literally different like you bought a new bike. Idk why they use that dog shit aer fork. They’re absolutely terrible. Even the new 22 ones.
Maybe I’m just an outlier, but I’d like to see the 450s become 500s and allow 500 2 strokes back in.
Wouldn't be fair. 500 4 stroke way faster around a track.
I’ve heard is there wasnt much left to do on 2 stroke to make it faster or better. So they moved on to the 4 stroke because there more parts more things to change and make it better.
@@traxxasrc10 2 stroke can still be improved. It's just that yes the manufacturers initially wanted the extra income. But now that high cost is hurting the sport. Also in the bigger cc bikes it comes down to ease of riding and power delivery. A 500 two stroke is "faster" than a 450 but both a 450 and 500 already make enough power to be spinning your wheel. A 450 is just easier and less tiring to out that power down. Same reason I'm faster on my slower 250f than my 250 two stroke around a track.
The cost went up but sales dropped by more than half. Riders were hanging on to their bikes longer too
@@4touchdowns1game29 450s 4ts make more horsepower than 500 2ts and are faster.
As of Oct 2024, everyone is probably aware of the internet buzz about Kailub Russell supposedly getting hired by Yamaha to run GNCC (XC-1) to help develop a YZ350FX. Maybe?? If true, what could be in the works is: 1) WR250/450F possibly gone and replaced by ... 2) YZ350FX which will cover the needs of GNCC XC-1 riders/Average Joe MX or any other off-road application while the YZ450F(X) would cover the needs of Pro MX, SX & western off-road riders. 3) WR350R beefed up enough to get dual-sport reliability and maintenance schedules & corked up just enough to get past the CARB/Euro 5 emissions. A 6-speed gearbox for the YZ350FX & WR350R would be very nice to.
Keefer/gypsy, when we starting our own machine shop selling YZ250》350 big bore kits?
Can you not destroke or got to smaller bore to convert 450 to 350
In defense of Japanese engineering, there is a reason why it's so meticulous and high quality. That same culture of detail and precision and patience, also finds its way to procedure aka "red tape". That said, it takes someone special at the companies to make things move fast and push new ideas but when they do they can build something special. Whether it's Gshock or the Lexus LFA, it takes somebody with vision, position and gaman. The culture of "move fast and break things" in the west doesn't exist in Japan. You do things the "right way". Of course this makes innovation more difficult but it also gives the confidence that Japanese products will work and are made with care.
As far as the 350 vs 450 question, I fully agree, it's the rotational mass, which shows as they gryoscope affect. When the 450 gets out of control, it takes a lot to bring it back and sometimes you can't physically do it. I had a friend who loved 450's when he was in control, but when he'd crashed it would be really bad. The 350 suited him way way better. That said when you are "on it" with a 450, it's a pretty special feeling too.
I know the clip is a year old but it would be really cool to see some competition in the 350 size
Don't ride motocross, but just from an off-road pov don't the 250cc MX bikes have tons of power? I get that the 450's are too stiff and too dangerous for amateurs, but the 250's make like 40hp. How much do you really need to go round a full size motorcross track recreationally? For example, KTM's SX-F 250-350-450 lineup is dynoed at 40, 50, and 55hp respectively.
Is it not just about the peak power? Is it low end torque or weight or frame stiffness that is making the big difference between a 450 and 350 rideability?
Nvm you answered my question :p
I have a 2018 KTM 350 with KYB suspension its like riding a horse that knows the trail
I hope Suzuki is the first Japanese manufacturer to release a 350. Complete with a redesigned kickstarter specific to the 350.
I have a 2020 YZ450 and Keefer is right about KTMs. The suspension they come with is the reason I don't consider buying. Would definitely buy a YZ350 though!
I totally agree and imagine how much things would advance if you allowed a 350 2 stroke to be developed and race in the same class!!!! Or are 4 strokes simply not good enough!!!!
Excuse me I had a 350 , I had it for 2 years . But in some way i cannot get along with ktm,s . I rode more 125 ktm when I was racing 20 years ago . Same story . A Japanese bike fits me …. And a ktm not
I want honda yamaha sizukie 350s idc what brand i just want everyone to make them im to big for a 250 and not skilled enough for a 450
im convinced that at the very very top of massive companies like Yamaha and probably Honda as well , those people DO NOT care about the dirtbikes and dirtbike divisions of their companies. Dirtbikes is probably the last thing they are concerned about making changes to in order to meet market requests from people like us. IF they payed attention to it for even a week they'd realize they need to start making 300cc two strokes with electric start starting 3 years ago , and a 350cc mx/woods bike starting 2 years ago. I think the KTM group dominated the market not because they build the best bikes ever , but because they are a dirtbike company first and they know the market and listened to theyre customers.
I put a 300 red Moto big bore kit in my 23 CRF250RX and it’s awesome. Also they make a gas tank that is much better than stock. The Japanese will never build a 350. They would be admitting they mistake by not building one. They are stubborn. I was told this by a Honda mechanic. The Japanese did this to the 2 stroke as well. Many jumped ship then.
Ditto , I have a 2020 Redmoto 300 and it's an awesome bike , but I'm waiting for a anniversary 450 to keep it company 😁
Congratulations on your 2023 250 rx . I just received mine 2 weeks ago and only rode 1 hr max. Would you hook up a timbersled to your big bore 300?
@@dregsta No. Hard on the clutch, not enough power. It would wear out the top end fast. Only 450's on those.
@@dregsta we don't get much snow in the UK so pointless here , I bet they are great fun though .
Id have thought you would need a 450 though for a timbersled .
I agree but it needs to be the yz and wr for us who like to ride trails
Springs will be on the '24s.
Want a 350? Map your 450 into a 350.
Remember the Honda 150...just wait, all the minis will be 150s...oops.
Believe the Hype. The 2023 KTM 350 Sxf is a fantastic Bike.
Hahaha! "If they just built a KTM with spring forks." They did for years and they sucked a big one, that's why they went to air.
Did you guys see Liam Everts ripping on a 350 at MXDN…. ?
The only thing that would happen going to a 350f would bring back the 250 2 stroke. People understood withing a couple a years it was the 450's ability to start that helped them win races. You bring in a 350 and the 250 2 stroke will come back, then there goes the four stroke revolution.
I don't get why everyone shits on the air fork. Once you find your setting they're great. The only annoying thing is you have to measure/adjust the pressure at the start of the day.
I for sure don’t have the front end feel that I get on a good spring fork though. Bottoming resistance, sure, but not feel.
I won’t get a Ktm I’ve got 2023 WR 250f it’s fully uncorked competition ECU and it’s CCU and I love mine it’s basically a yz with 6 gears right . And I’ve got the 2024 yz250x and a 2001 yz i will always be team blue
Agree with most comments on the 250-x.
Make it a 300, add estart and counter balance it.
They'd sell every one.
They should also make a 300 2t… plz
The rmz350 is suzukis key to a mx comeback!
I would buy a YZ350f day one! I actually got rid of my 2013 CRF450R for a Husqvarna FE350 and it was unmistakably amazing. It rides like a 250f (it revs to the moon) but with way better power across the entire RPM range. My next bike will be either a KTM350, Husqvarna 350 or Gas Gas 350. If any of the Japanese manufacturers put out a 350 I'd definitely consider it especially Yamaha or Kawasaki as they make my favorite 250f bikes so I can only imagine how amazing their 35o would be. The AMA needs to push for 350's in professional racing. So many pro riders say that the 450 has outgrown the stadium, they're too powerful, they aren't fun to ride. I believe a 350 premier class would be perfect and it would make the jump from 250f easier. The KTM 350 is the best selling MX bike year after year, why? It's brilliant ✌️
I wonder how a 350 would do in SX vs the 450 on the tighter tracks? Seems like it could be an advantage. Surprised that KTM doesn't ever try it...
They did I'm pretty sure
Mike Alessi rode a 350 in outdoors when he rode for ktm not sure if he did in supercross probably not cause he crashed that year at red bud.
@@ryderdavison9020 Alessi was never much of a SX rider and with Outdoors a 350 loses most of it's advantages. Look at how AC222 eventually dropped the 350 for the 450 and all the KTM group factory boys went 450 in MXGP. That being said, I think SX would still be a format that the 350 would outperform the 450 most races (not Daytona or Atlanta)
@@AlaskaTRX he was leading points that year, and actually blew through the comp, at the end of the day it’s the riders not the bike.
It’s been done, but the 450 consistently beat it out. Identical weight with less power at that level just doesn’t cut it.
I've got a 22 Husky 350. Best bike I've ever ridden in every way, EXCEPT the forks.
They are shit. They've never felt right since the day I got it. I'm 90kgs. They always feel hard and bouncy so you don't ever trust the front wheel to really lean into it.
Don't get me wrong, I still ride quick on it, but that's due to how good the engine is and how balanced the chassis is.
Air forks are shit. Can we just put it down to a bad experience and move on back to springs already...
I've been dreaming of a YZ350F on/off road for years.
so true!!!was riding yamahas for years, when they wouldnt upgrade there bikes i went euro....and havent been back. im just a punter who has to actually buy his bikes,as good as the yammies were if you wont give me what i want when i want it ktm will...
I freaking hated my 2018 air forks. None stop messing with them and they just never felt like you could trust them
He said I'm going to meet with the Japanese I'm going to try to convince them 🤣🤣 look at Keefer's face he knows what's up when you deal with a manufacturer that large. You're talking YEARS bro.
I think Deegan loves the Yamaha 350 he's been racing. It's no wonder he didn't want Schofield claiming it.
Said a year ago , say it again YZ450 is beautiful, works for me, ya want a 350 , buy 1. I personally love HP & long jeopardy from a 450, because I can’t ride hard enough to hurt it, but I love the fun factor.
Japanese brands, not juts motorcycles, have been risk adverse for a long time.
If you watch riders doing a 350 v 450 lap comparison video, most if not all the riders are faster on the 350. Now if you are riding a 350 for a whole moto then you'll probably be even faster overall because it won't tire you out as much as a 450 does. The Japanese manufacturers need to start making 350's.
Keefer IS Emperor Palpatine at 6:50
350 hell
Why don’t we have YZ500’s ?
Put me down for anniversary edition w purple rims or anything
suzuki 350 with E start to save the brand??
LOVE my Husky FC 350. Except for the forks. 😕
I don't get the hype 😂 I love my 450 and have rode a 350 but wasn't impressed. To each their own I guess.. I'll stick with my 450!!
Agreed what’s the point if you can’t handle a 450 then stick to a 250 to learn to ride...
@@MrFPSWisconsin Cairoli, a multi time world champ rode the 350 for quite a while. I guess he must not have been good enough according to your standards…😂🤡
#800 rode a 350cc..👍
Could you imagine if they didn’t make a 450 kiefer would be the first one whining!just sayin
350 feels lighter, jumps better, handles better and you can get more out of it unless your a top pro you don't need a 450, that's the hype.
The reason people don’t want to buy Ktms is because their 250 cost more than a Japanese 450. It would be interesting to see the price point of a Japanese 350 being maybe between a 250 and 450
they share the same frame, why can't someone make a 350 top to transform the 250F to a 350f they make the custom 500s.
If you're >C class and If you're over 200lbs, you want a 450 all day. "No replacement for displacement".
My fe350 is smick everyone needs to be on one.
450 tuned down is everything a 350 could be but with a ceiling to the power most can't use. Why create a different bike that can't do anything a tuned down 450 can?
They should just make 125/250/500 2t again. Prices cut by 1/3rd....more riders, less maintenance costs. Lower speeds/ less major injuries. More bike sales. Smells great, less filling
We need a yz350 two stroke and the AMA to let it race against the 450 bikes.
Wouldnt it be better to put a smaller 350cc barrel on a 450. That is guaranteed to handle the jandle and be reliable
If we had a 350cc National Championship, or change 450 to 350, then Japan will make them. They should have three classes. 125cc 2-stroke/175cc 4-stroke, 250cc 2 & 4-stroke, Open cc 2-stroke/450cc 4-stroke.