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With four-strokes becoming a weapon of choice for the majority of riders over the last decade we pretty much only had two flavours to choose from until 2011—250 or 450! For some, 250Fs were underpowered, particularly the larger riders in our midst. Yet, for many, the big 450s offered far more power than most mere mortals could attempt to tame and utilize. So it was a stroke of genius when Stefan Everts pushed for the development of a 350c motocross machine in 2011 we had a revolutionary new flavor to try! A few years down the line, the KTM 350 now has multiple world titles under its belt as well as some competition in the 350 category now that Husqvarna (under the ownership of KTM) have joined the 350 game. For me, having never actually ridden a 350 machine before—and only having limited experience onboard the beastly 450—this turned out to be an eye opening and enlightening process. As expected, the little 250 was great fun for rag around DMP. With the trick-bits and modifcations we have made to the CRF she is certainly a snappy, little thing. The bottom end power on the Honda is stunning—there is no chance of getting bogged down in a corner. She pulls a punch and is absolutely great fun playing around with this. Although the CRF250R may be lacking at the top end—particularly in comparison to the larger machines—it revs out quickly and it certainly sounds and feels that you are going fast! The Husqvarna 350 is an upgraded version (obviously). You can certainly feel an addition in power and top speed in comparison to the 250. However, for me this is definitely not too intimidating at all. The same thing cannot be said about the 450 Yamaha. The thing is a straight up monster! As soon as it is kicked into life you can instantly feel the power at your fingertips. The question is, is it usable? Well or me—a mere mortal—probably not. Certainly not every bit of power the beast offers. And it offers a lot! Under acceleration, the 450 tries its best to rip your arms out their sockets. Only being relatively small, I had one hell of a job trying to manage the bottom-end power and just trying to keep that front end down. When, on the relatively tight and twisty DMP track, you are able to open up, there appears to be no stop to the top-end power as you hurtle down the track at a speed that definitely takes your breath away. Believe me when I say you’ll need your safest motorcycle helmets for the 450. As a mere mortal incapable of taming the beast, I am quite thankful for my Just1 helmet protecting me as I ride the tracks using the 450. It was a fun ride though.—Max Hind
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