Segment:
Competition Motocross (SX) and Cross-Country (XC)
Target Audience:
Professional and amateur motocross racers, off-road enthusiasts
Key Competitors:
Yamaha YZ450F, Honda CRF450R, Kawasaki KX450F, Suzuki RM-Z450
Performance Focus:
High-performance, lightweight, agile handling, powerful engine
Factory Edition Distinction:
Features enhanced components and aesthetics beyond the standard model, often closer to race-spec.
Brand Philosophy:
KTM's 'Ready to Race' philosophy emphasizing performance and rider experience
Powertrain:
Engine, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission, clutch, final drive
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (front and rear), steering, wheels, tires, brakes
Electrical:
Ignition system, lighting, instruments, battery, wiring harness
Controls:
Throttle, clutch lever, brake levers, shifter, footpegs
Bodywork:
Fairings, seat, fuel tank, fenders
Operation:
Pre-ride inspection, starting procedures, operating techniques, shutdown procedures
Maintenance:
Routine checks, fluid level checks, lubrication, air filter cleaning/replacement, spark plug inspection/replacement, chain maintenance, brake pad inspection
Adjustments:
Clutch lever free play, throttle cable free play, chain slack, suspension sag (basic guidance)
Troubleshooting:
Basic diagnostic guidance for common starting, running, and operational issues
Safety Information:
Riding safety, protective gear recommendations, hazard warnings
Depth:
Covers essential owner-level maintenance, operation, and basic troubleshooting. Does not typically include in-depth engine disassembly or complex electrical diagnostics, which are reserved for service manuals.
Type:
4-stroke, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, SOHC
Displacement:
449.3 cc (450cc class)
Bore X Stroke:
95 mm x 63.4 mm (typical for this generation)
Compression Ratio:
Approx. 12.5:1 (subject to variation)
Starter:
Electric starter
Horsepower:
Estimated 54-58 HP (at crankshaft, manufacturer claim)
Torque:
Estimated 48-50 Nm (at crankshaft, manufacturer claim)
Type:
Fuel Injection (EFI)
Throttle Body:
Keihin 44mm (typical)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 octane (RON)
Length:
Approx. 2140 mm (2170 mm for XC-F)
Width:
Approx. 810 mm (excluding handlebars)
Height:
Approx. 1250 mm (seat height approx. 960 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 100 kg (without fuel)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 105 kg (with oil and ready to ride, estimated)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 liters (EU) / 7.0 liters (USA)
Crash Testing:
Not applicable (Off-road motorcycle)
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear (Brembo components typical)
Front Brake Disc Size:
260 mm (typical)
Rear Brake Disc Size:
220 mm (typical)
Handlebar Protection:
Integrated handguards (standard or optional)
Frame Protection:
Frame guards, skid plate (may vary)
System:
N/A (Pure performance off-road motorcycle, no infotainment system)
Features:
N/A (No electronic rider aids like traction control or ABS typically found on this model type)
Features:
N/A (No Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity)
Display Type:
Digital multi-function display (hour meter, time, RPM, etc.)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10-15 hours of riding or annually, whichever comes first (typical recommendation, check manual for exact)
Air Filter Cleaning:
After every few rides or as needed based on riding conditions (critical for off-road).
Spark Plug Inspection:
Every 20-30 hours of riding.
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 30-50 hours of riding (critical for performance and engine longevity).
Engine Oil:
SAE 10W-50, JASO MA (e.g., Motorex Power Synt 4T 10W-50 or equivalent)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1.1 liters (without filter change), 1.2 liters (with filter change)
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors (e.g., Motorex Coolant M3.0 or equivalent)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (for hydraulic clutch and brake systems)
Fork Oil:
Specific suspension fluid (e.g., WP Suspension Fluid 45 or equivalent, viscosity may vary based on suspension setup)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, brake pads, chain and sprockets, air filter, tires, spokes.
Engine Considerations:
Regular valve clearance checks are crucial for this high-performance engine. Proper air filter maintenance is paramount to prevent engine damage from dirt ingress.
Suspension Care:
Regular cleaning and inspection of fork seals and shock linkages are recommended for optimal performance and longevity.
Origins:
Austrian manufacturer founded in 1934, known for off-road and motorsport prowess.
Sx Series:
KTM's long-standing lineage of competitive motocross bikes, consistently updated with new technologies and chassis designs.
2014 Updates:
Typically included chassis refinements, suspension updates, engine mapping revisions, and styling changes over the previous year.
Manufacturing Location:
Austria (Mattighofen)
Motocross Wins:
KTM 450 SX-F models have a history of numerous professional motocross and supercross race wins across various championships.
Media Reviews:
Consistently praised in motorcycle media for its powerful engine, agile handling, and premium components.
Emission Standards:
Compliant with relevant emission standards for its intended market (USA/EU).
