TRAIL ZONE

TRAIL BOSS BLOG:

2012 KTM EXCs LAUNCHED: 350 EXC-F LEADS THE WAY!

KTM pulled the wraps off its 2012 range of EXC enduro weapons at the bikes' world launch in Italy last week -- and it's no surprise that a brand new 350 EXC-F thumper headlines the Austrian brand's off-road line-up.

After setting the motocross world on its ear last year with the 350 SX-F, KTM is hoping to do the same in the enduro scene, with the all-new 350 EXC-F boasting a fuel-injected four-valve four-stroke powerplant wrapped in a brand new chassis that features WP suspension and a PDS linkless rear end.

KTM claims the 350's new motor weighs in at just 28kg and pumps out an impressive 45hp, two specs which should go a long way to achieving the bike's goal of being a real giant-killer in the bush.

The new 350 slots into KTM's four-stroke EXC line-up alongside an updated 250 EXC-F and much upgraded 450 and 500 EXC-F models, the big bangers featuring new 2.5kg lighter motors that are now fed by fuel-injection and 42mm throttle bodies.

On the two-stroke front, KTM's much-loved 125, 200, 250 and 300 EXC models continue unabated for 2012, keeping very much alive the hopes and dreams of premix fans right around the globe.

Chassis, suspension and details updates apply across the entire EXC range, while special Six Days models (lower image) with a raft of bolt-on goodies as standard equipment will also be available.

For more details and delivery dates of the 2012 EXCs, see your local KTM dealer and keep a watch on the www.ktm.com.au web site.

And rest assured as soon as we can throw a leg over the 350 EXC-F, you'll get to read all about it an upcoming issue of TRAIL ZONE ... this is one bike we can't wait to start firing through the sticks!

-- Clubby, www.trailzone.com.au