2024 KTM 350 XW-F Build Breakdown: The Ultimate Trail Machine

2024 KTM 350 XW-F Build Breakdown: The Ultimate Trail Machine

Hey everyone, Jeff here from Slavens Racing, and today I’m excited to share the details of a custom build we just finished—a 2024 KTM 350 XW-F. Not only did we build this bike to sort out what makes these 350s run at their absolute best, but we also sold this build in record time!

We put this bike through its paces to find the perfect combination of performance, handling, and reliability, so let’s dive into the specifics.

The Build

Tires and Suspension

Starting at the front, we went with a Bridgestone X31, which has become our go-to tire for all types of riding. I’ve got this tire on all my bikes and love its performance. We’ll be adding a tubeless system shortly as well. For the forks, we installed the K-Tech ORVS system. While the initial setup was a bit firm for the rocky, rooty terrain we ride here in Colorado and back East, we’ve since developed our own custom Slavens Mule K-Tech Fork Kit, which softens things up for a smoother ride over tough obstacles.

To round things out, we added a Bridgestone E50 Extreme Gummy rear tire—ideal for extreme conditions.

Handlebars and Navigation

We’re using Molecule handguards, the thicker version, for better durability. These don’t fold back and smash your knuckles like most stock guards—no flimsy stuff here. We also added Molecule bar ends to protect the grips and are running ODI Tacky grips for that extra stickiness.

The bike is equipped with a Trail Tech Voyager Pro GPS for those long dual-sport and adventure rides.

Comfort and Protection

For added comfort, especially for those of us feeling the effects of age or past injuries, we installed a Mako 360 handlebar mount. This little upgrade is a game-changer for your joints—shoulders, wrists, hands, you name it. If you’re dealing with any kind of injury or just want to prevent future issues, this is a must-have.

Other key protection upgrades include a Molecule skid plate for full underbody protection, a Heimdall kickstand Peg for added stability, and graphics guards to protect the frame and graphics from boot wear.

We also installed Bullet Proof Designs radiator guards—tough, high-quality protection for the front and sides of the radiators. You don’t want to skimp on protecting these vital components when you’re out in the backcountry.

The back is also protected with a Bullet Proof Designs Rear Disc Guard and Crosslinked Swingarm Guards.

Performance Upgrades

We swapped the stock muffler for an FMF Q4 exhaust system, which really brought this bike to life. Paired with the GET ECU, it unlocked a ton of low-end power and solved the flameout issue. The Samco hose kit adds durability, ensuring the cooling system is as tough as the rest of the bike.

Underneath the seat, you’ll find the GET SX1 ECU. We’ve done extensive custom mapping on these ECUs to eliminate flameouts and give the bike better low-end grunt. And for those of you wanting to dial in your ride, there’s a matching handlebar switch for adjusting traction control and selecting between two different maps on the fly.

And of course, we’ve got a Rekluse CX clutch installed because, let’s be honest, after you ride with one, it’s hard to go back. It’s a game-changer for technical terrain, making everything from tight trails to rocky climbs feel much easier.