Market Segment:
High-performance Enduro/Off-Road motorcycle, specifically the limited 'Six Days' edition.
Competitors:
Dominated the extreme enduro market, competing with models like the Husqvarna TE series, Beta RR series, and Yamaha WR series.
Six Days Edition:
The 'Six Days' designation signifies a special edition model typically featuring enhanced components and factory race modifications for the International Six Days Enduro (ISDE) competition.
Off Road Capability:
Designed for extreme off-road conditions, including technical terrain, challenging climbs, and high-speed dirt sections.
Engine Service:
Complete engine overhaul, piston replacement, valve adjustments, timing chain inspection and replacement, carburetor tuning and overhaul.
Drivetrain Service:
Clutch inspection and replacement, gearbox disassembly and reassembly, chain and sprocket maintenance, drive shaft inspection.
Suspension Service:
Front fork (WP USD) service and seal replacement, rear shock absorber maintenance and adjustments, linkage and bearing lubrication.
Brake System:
Front and rear brake caliper service, master cylinder overhaul, brake fluid replacement, pad and disc inspection.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, ignition system troubleshooting, lighting system, battery maintenance, starter motor, charging system.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank removal and installation, fuel pump inspection, fuel filter replacement, carburetor settings and troubleshooting.
Cooling System:
Radiator inspection, coolant replacement, thermostat testing, hose inspection.
Frame And Bodywork:
Frame inspection, subframe, fuel tank, seat, plastics, exhaust system removal and installation.
Maintenance Procedures:
Regular service checks, oil and filter changes, air filter cleaning, spark plug replacement, chain lubrication and adjustment, tire pressure checks.
Troubleshooting Guide:
Systematic diagnosis of common problems, error code interpretation (if applicable), performance issue troubleshooting.
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for complete engine, transmission, and suspension rebuilds.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Methods for checking component functionality, electrical system testing, and performance diagnostics.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and component rebuilds, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, single-cylinder, DOHC
Bore X Stroke:
95 mm x 63.4 mm
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Ignition:
Kokusan electronic ignition with digital ignition timing adjustment
Horsepower:
Approx. 50-54 hp (at crankshaft, estimated)
Torque:
Not officially specified by KTM for this era, but high for its class.
Carburetor:
Keihin FCR-MX 39 (flat slide, constant velocity)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, min. 95 octane
Oil Type:
SAE 10W-50, JASO MA certified motorcycle oil (e.g., Motorex Power Synt M 4T 10W/50)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1.1 liters (1.2 US qt) without filter change; Approx. 1.3 liters (1.4 US qt) with filter change.
Transmission Type:
6-speed, constant mesh
Clutch:
Wet multi-disc clutch with hydraulic actuation (KTM PowerParts clutch slave cylinder often fitted).
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios would be detailed in the manual, generally optimized for off-road riding.
Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40, API SG or higher motorcycle gear oil (often shared with engine oil for KTMs of this era).
Oil Capacity:
Refer to manual for exact capacity, typically around 0.8 liters.
Length:
Approx. 2210 mm (87 in)
Width:
Approx. 810 mm (32 in)
Height:
Approx. 1255 mm (49.4 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 113 kg (249 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Not officially specified, but significantly higher with fluids.
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approx. 9 liters (2.4 US gal)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1480 mm (58.3 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 350 mm (13.8 in)
Safety Certification:
Not applicable in the automotive sense; designed for closed-course competition and off-road use. Emission compliance varies by region.
Braking System:
Hydraulically operated disc brakes front and rear. Brembo components typical for this era. Specific disc sizes detailed in manual.
Suspension Damping:
Adjustable compression and rebound damping on front forks and rear shock absorber for optimal control.
Frame Construction:
Chromium-molybdenum steel trellis frame for rigidity and impact resistance.
Handguards:
Standard on Six Days models for rider protection from roost and impacts.
Display:
Basic LCD instrument cluster displaying speed, odometer, trip meter, engine hours, and basic warning lights.
ABS:
No ABS or traction control; purely performance-oriented off-road.
Connectivity Features:
N/A
Headlight Type:
Halogen headlight with standard H4 bulb.
Taillight Type:
LED taillight assembly.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10-15 engine hours or annually, whichever comes first. More frequent for extreme use.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 5-10 engine hours, or as needed based on dust conditions.
Valve Adjustment Interval:
Every 20-30 engine hours for initial checks, then as recommended by the manual based on wear.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20-30 engine hours.
Chain And Sprocket Inspection:
Every 5-10 engine hours for lubrication and tension, replacement as needed.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 brake fluid
Coolant:
Mixture of distilled water and anti-freeze/anti-corrosion additive (e.g., Motorex Coolant M3.0), typically a 50/50 mix.
Clutch Slave Cylinder Leaks:
Occasional leaks from the clutch slave cylinder seal, often addressed with aftermarket upgrades.
Carburetor Jetting:
Carburetor jetting may require adjustment based on altitude, temperature, and modifications.
Suspension Seals:
Front fork seal leaks can occur with hard use and require regular maintenance.
Brand Focus:
KTM is renowned for its off-road racing heritage, consistently dominating various disciplines like Motocross, Enduro, and Dakar Rally.
Exc Series:
The EXC series represents KTM's flagship off-road enduro line, continually evolving with engine technology, chassis design, and suspension performance.
Six Days Origin:
The 'Six Days' models are historically linked to KTM's participation and success in the grueling International Six Days Enduro, a prestigious multi-day off-road motorcycle race.
Manufacturing Location:
Austria (KTM Sportmotorcycle AG)
Production Period:
The 450 EXC-R was a key model in KTM's lineup throughout the late 2000s.
