can be flicked around in turns like a 250 , such is the excellent chassis .
ENGINE The engine now weighs 28.8kg . From memory a 1990 CR250R two-stroke engine was about 25kg , and the old XR600 lump was a porky 45kg ... so for a 350cc four-stroke engine to be that light is a staggering achievement . I like the power delivery . Mild from idle , but with a strong linear progression and a high revving top-end with decent torque at all revs . This makes for an engine that is easy to use in all conditions and circumstances , and let ’ s face facts – modern day enduros have everything from extreme slippery rock sections to MX style tracks and all in between . A rider needs an engine that covers all bases quickly with minimum rider effort while maintaining good traction . These 350 engines do that . Naturally these days , the engine has power modes and traction control . One mode has more aggressive and responsive power than the other - while the TC takes the edge off and most of the wheelspin out of both modes . Experiment until your heart is content and find what works for you . to be able to adjust suspension while moving when trying to iron out a wee issue ... but I ’ m a firm believer in getting the bike right in practice , bearing in mind the terrain of the next race and then hopefully not having to worry about it . Handling-wise the 350 feels light and nimble . The steering is accurate and effortless with a great ability to hunt out the inside line of a tight turn . Overall , I think the steering favours tight turns over high-speed stability , but the feel is planted and it is a secure platform to operate from . Ridden aggressively , the KTM
54 KIWI RIDER