2016 KTM Motocross SX-F First Looks

The riding world got a glimpse at what the 2016 KTM SX-F models would be when KTM released the 450 SX-F Factory Edition and the 250 SX-F Factory Edition early in 2015. The new 2016 SX-F models are here and thankfully almost identical to the impressive Factory Edition bikes. No the frames are not orange, but the new models are nothing like their 2015 predecessors.

2016 KTM 450 SX-F

If this bike looks familiar, it should, as the 2015 Factory Edition was a 98% preview to 2016 450 SX-F. For 2016 the 450 SX-F features an all-new chassis and engine, reducing overall weight by 7.9 pounds. The 2016 KTM 450 SX-F is the lightest 450 MX bike in production, even with electric start. For more details, read our 2015 450 SX-F Factory Edition First Ride review.

Highlights and Changes
• New 450 SX-F engine is more compact, lighter and provides higher performance throughout the entire range of power
• New engine cases redesigned to centralize the rotating mass of the crankshaft and clutch and reduce overall length and width
• Completely reworked Keihin Engine Management System with new 44mm throttle body featuring a lightweight direct-connect design
• New electronic Launch Control for efficient starts and multiple engine maps to control the overall power delivery
• New cylinder head combustion chamber geometry, optimized ports, shorter timing chain and friction reduced chain guides for improved power and reduced weight
• New 6mm shorter cylinder, shorter connecting rod and crankshaft has 10% more inertia.
• New lighter 5-Speed transmission is narrower and features a new surface treatment on 1st and 5th gears along with a special low friction coating on the shift forks to provide precise and easy shifting
• New “No Dirt” shift lever prevents dirt from fouling the lever joint to ensure proper shifting in any condition
• DDS (Damped Diaphragm Steel) clutch has a new lighter basket along with a reworked inner hub and pressure plate providing better oil supply and improved cooling of the clutch
• New super compact and lightweight 1.1-pound Lithium-Ion starter battery
• New WP flow optimized radiator design features a substantial improvement in engine cooling
• New Flow Design Header (FDH) with an integrated sound resonator that is also designed to increase power along with a new lightweight silencer that is 40mm shorter than the previous design • New lighter chromoly steel frame provides higher torsional rigidity with less longitudinal stiffness resulting in improved handling and energy absorption
• New smaller, lighter subframe design made with new aluminum profiles
• New lighter swingarm features a revised internal structure to match the new frame characteristics
• New lighter “No Dirt” footpeg design that provides a larger surface area and features a “scraper” to reduce dirt build-up in the hinge
• New CNC machined upper triple clamp featuring a rubber damping system for the new Neken handlebar and ODI lock-on grips
• The advanced WP 4CS (Four Chamber System) fork has been specifically designed for motocross and features revised damping settings optimized for the new chassis
• New generation WP shock developed in conjunction with the new frame and swingarm including a new linkage/pullrod system
• Super lightweight Galfer Wave rotors, CNC machined hubs, high-end Excel rims and are fitted with Dunlop GEOMAX MX32 tires are standard equipment
• New airbox and airfilter design offers maximum protection for the engine while ensuring maximum airflow and providing quick “no tools” airfilter changes
• New ergonomics and bodywork to centralize mass, improve handling and rider comfort
• 2016 450 SX-F claimed weight 224.7 pounds

2016 KTM 450 SX-F Specifications:
Engine: Single cylinder, four-stroke
Displacement: 449.9cc
Bore x Stroke: 95.0 x 63.4mm
Compression Ratio: 12.75:1
Starter/Battery: Electric Starter / 12V, 3Ah
Transmission: 5-speed
Fuel System: Keihin EFI, 44mm Throttle Body
Lubrication: Pressure lubrication with 2 oil pumps
Primary Ratio: 31:76
Final Drive: 13:48
Cooling: Liquid-cooling
Clutch: Wet Multi-Disc DDS-Clutch, Brembo Hydraulics
Ignition: Keihin EMS
Frame: Central Double-Cradle Type chromoly Steel
Subframe: Aluminum
Handlebar: Neken, Aluminum 22mm
Front Suspension: WP Suspension 4CS
Rear Suspension: WP Monoshock with Linkage
Suspension Travel Front/Rear: 11.81 inch/11.81 inch
Front/Rear Brakes: Disc Brake 260 mm/220 mm
Front/Rear Rims: 1.60x 21, 2.15 x 19 Excel
Front/Rear Tires: 80/100-21; 120/90-19 Dunlop MX32
Chain: 5/8 x 1/4 inch
Silencer: Aluminum
Steering Head Angle: 26.1º
Triple Clamp Offset: 22mm
Wheelbase: 58.5 ± 0.4 inch
Ground Clearance: 14.6 inch
Seat Height: 37.8 inch
Tank Capacity, Approx: 1.9 gallon
Weight (without fuel), Approx: 224.7 pounds

2016 KTM 350 SX-F

For 2016 everything on the 350 SX-F is new, including the chassis, suspension, bodywork and engine. The 350 SX-F is also 6.8 pounds lighter. The 350 SX-F engine is heavily based on the 250 SX-F engine. An essential point in the new construction was to create even more compact dimensions for a more effective centralization of mass and improved rideability.

Highlights and Changes
• The DOHC engine of the 350 SX-F features a completely new construction to make it even more compact and powerful.
• New engine cases redesigned to centralize rotating mass of the crankshaft and clutch while reducing overall length and weight
• Completely reworked Keihin Engine Management System with new 44mm throttle body featuring a lightweight direct-connect design
• New electronic Launch Control for efficient starts and multiple engine maps to control the overall power delivery
• New cylinder head combustion chamber geometry, optimized ports, new camshafts, new timing, new finger followers and new valve springs for improved power and reduced weight
• New lightweight forged bridged box-type piston by CP, new shorter connecting rod mated to a new shorter, stiffer crankshaft contribute to a light engine feel and strong power delivery
• New 5-speed transmission features wider gears with a new surface treatment on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th gears along with a special low-friction coating on the shift forks to provide precise and easy shifting
• New “No Dirt” shift lever prevents dirt from fouling the lever joint to ensure proper shifting in any condition
• New CSS (Coil Spring Steel) one-piece clutch that has been completely redesigned for improved oil supply for better cooling, durability and lighter weight
• New super-compact and lightweight 1.1-pound Lithium-Ion starter battery
• New WP flow optimized radiator design features a substantial improvement in engine cooling
• New exhaust header and new lightweight silencer are both designed to increase power and contribute to mass centralization
• New lighter chromoly steel frame provides 20% higher torsional rigidity with 30% less longitudinal stiffness resulting in improved handling and energy absorption
• New smaller, lighter subframe design made with new aluminum profiles
• New lighter swingarm features a revised internal structure to match the new frame characteristics
• New lighter “No Dirt” footpeg design that provides a larger surface area and features a “scraper” to reduce dirt build-up in the hinge
• New CNC machined upper triple clamp featuring a rubber damping system for the new Neken handlebar and ODI lock-on grips
• The advanced WP 4CS (Four Chamber System) fork has been specifically designed for motocross and features revised damping settings optimized for the new chassis
• New generation WP shock developed in conjunction with the new frame and swingarm design including a new linkage/pullrod system
• Super lightweight Galfer Wave rotors, CNC machined hubs, high-end Excel rims fitted with Dunlop GEOMAX MX32 tires are standard equipment
• New airbox and airfilter design offers maximum protection for the engine while ensuring maximum airflow and providing quick “no tools” airfilter changes
• New ergonomics and bodywork centralize mass

2016 KTM 350 SX-F Specifications:
Engine: Single-cylinder, four-stroke
Displacement: 349.7cc
Bore x Stroke: 88.0 x 57.5mm
Compression Ratio: 14.0:1
Starter/Battery: Electric Starter / 12V, 3Ah
Transmission: 5-speed
Fuel System: Keihin EFI, 44mm Throttle Body
Lubrication: Pressure lubrication with 2 oil pumps
Primary Ratio: 24:73
Final Drive: 14:50
Cooling: Liquid-cooling
Clutch: Wet Multi-Disc CSS-Clutch, Brembo Hydraulics
Ignition: Keihin EMS
Frame: Central Double-Cradle Type 25CrMo4 Steel
Subframe: Aluminum
Handlebar: Neken, Aluminum 22mm
Front Suspension: WP Suspension 4CS
Rear Suspension: WP Monoshock with Linkage
Suspension Travel Front/Rear: 11.81 inch/11.81 inch
Front/Rear Brakes: Disc Brake 260 mm/220 mm
Front/Rear Rims: 1.60x 21, 2.15 x 19 Excel
Front/Rear Tires: 80/100-21,110/90-19 Dunlop MX32
Chain: 5/8 x 1/4 in
Silencer: Aluminum
Steering Head Angle: 26.1º
Triple Clamp Offset: 22mm
Wheelbase: 58.5 ± 0.4 inch
Ground Clearance: 14.6 inch
Seat Height: 37.8 inch
Tank Capacity: 1.9 gallon
Weight (without fuel), Approx: 223.5 pounds

2016 KTM 250 SX-F

Just like the 2015 Factory Edition was a preview of the 2016 450 SX-F, the 2015 250 SX-F Factory Edition was a solid look at the all-new 2016 250 SX-F. The completely new 250 SX-F is not only lighter, it is more powerful. Read more about our first impression of the new bike in MotoUSA’s 2015 250 SX-F Factory Edition First Ride review.

Highlights and Changes
• The 250 SX-F engine design is more compact, lighter and provides higher performance throughout the entire range of power
• New engine cases redesigned to centralize the rotating mass of the crankshaft and clutch while reducing overall length
• Completely reworked Keihin Engine Management System with new 44mm throttle body featuring a lightweight direct-connect design
• New electronic Launch Control for efficient starts and multiple engine maps to control the overall power delivery
• New cylinder head combustion chamber geometry, optimized ports, new camshafts, new timing, new finger followers and new valve springs for improved power and reduced weight
• New lightweight forged bridged box-type piston by CP, new shorter connecting rod mated to a new shorter, stiffer crankshaft contribute to a light engine feel and strong power delivery
• New 5-speed transmission features wider gears with a new surface treatment on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th gears along with a special low-friction coating on the shift forks to provide precise and easy shifting
• New “No Dirt” shift lever prevents dirt from fouling the lever joint to ensure proper shifting in any condition
• New CSS (Coil Spring Steel) one-piece clutch that has been completely redesigned for improved oil supply for better cooling, durability and lighter weight
• New super compact and lightweight 1.1lb Lithium-Ion starter battery
• New WP flow optimized radiator design features a substantial improvement in engine cooling
• New exhaust header and new lightweight silencer are both designed to increase power and contribute to mass centralization
• New lighter chromoly steel frame provides 20% higher torsional rigidity with 30% less longitudinal stiffness resulting in improved handling and energy absorption
• New smaller, lighter subframe design made with new aluminum profiles
• New lighter swingarm features a revised internal structure to match the new frame characteristics
• New lighter “No Dirt” footpeg design that provides a larger surface area and features a “scraper” to reduce dirt build-up in the hinge
• New CNC machined upper triple clamp featuring a rubber damping system for the new Neken handlebar and ODI lock-on grips
• The advanced WP 4CS (Four Chamber System) Fork has been specifically designed for Motocross and features revised damping settings optimized for the new chassis
• New generation WP shock has been developed in conjunction with the new frame and swingarm architecture including a new linkage/pullrod system
• Super lightweight Galfer Wave rotors, CNC machined hubs, high-end Excel rims fitted with Dunlop GEOMAX MX32 tires are standard equipment
• New airbox and airfilter design offers maximum protection for the engine while ensuring maximum airflow and providing quick “no tools” airfilter changes
• New ergonomics and bodywork centralize mass, improve handling and rider comfort

2016 KTM 250 SX-F Specifications:
Engine Type: Single-cylinder, four-stroke
Displacement: 249cc
Bore x Stroke: 78.0 x 52.3mm
Compression Ratio: 14.4:1
Starter/Battery: Electric Starter / 12V, 3Ah
Transmission: 5-speed
Fuel System: Keihin EFI, 44mm Throttle Body
Lubrication: Pressure lubrication with 2 oil pumps
Primary Ratio: 24:73
Final Drive: 13:50
Cooling: Liquid Cooling
Clutch: Wet Multi-Disc CSS-Clutch, Brembo Hydraulics
Ignition: Keihin EMS
Frame: Central Double-Cradle Type 25CrMo4 Steel
Subframe: Aluminum
Handlebar: Neken, Aluminum 22mm
Front Suspension: WP Suspension 4CS
Rear Suspension: WP Monoshock with Linkage
Suspension Travel Front/Rear: 11.81 inch/11.81 inch
Front/Rear Brakes: Disc Brake 260mm/220mm
Front/Rear Rims: 1.60x 21, 2.15 x 19 Excel
Front/Rear Tires: 80/100-21; 100/90-19 Dunlop MX32
Chain: 5/8 x 1/4 inch
Silencer: Aluminum
Steering Head Angle: 26.1º
Triple Clamp Offset: 22mm
Wheelbase: 58.5 ± 0.4 inch
Ground Clearance: 14.6 inch
Seat Height: 37.8 inch
Tank Capacity, Approx: 1.9 gallon
Weight (without fuel) Approx: 220.2 pounds