While the spotlight has been on Ducati’s triple crown (and residual successes in recent sales), the Austrians have been quietly working on improving their bangin’ rep – and, right in line with the brand’s future goals to crush the competition, a key bike has been refreshed just in time for 2023.
World, meet the all-new, 2023 KTM 450 SX-F.
She’s lighter, she ranks way higher on mass centralization, and she handles like a dream – so let’s dive into the docket of tweaks.
Naturally, KTM’s done their best to get a production beauty as close to competition performance as possible; part of this is the magic that is the 450’s new engine that weighs less than 27kg while still delivering a fantastic 68hp.
Launch control is, of course, a key addition, along with “Quickshifter, two maps, a redesigned airbox, an exhaust system, and a series of other modifications” – all to complement the altered ‘anti-squat’ ergonomics and tweaked engine position.
Adjustable WP suspension, refined from the brand’s successes on the track, ties in the whole package for a cutting-edge Katoomer – perfect for down-and-daring citizens looking to lock in on a medal or three (the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing graphics don’t hurt).
Here’s the official list of perks for the 2023 KTM 450 SX-F, according to the press release on Motorcycle Sports:
- Factory racing seat (orange)
- Factory wheels (black rims, orange hub, orange sprockets, black spokes)
- Akrapovič ‘slip-on’ line // Semi-floating front brake disc
- Factory racing front brake disc guard (carbon reinforced version)
- Factory racing skid plate (carbon-reinforced version)
- Factory racing triple clamp (orange anodized)
- Factory start device (wp)
- ODI lock-on gray grip set
- Hinson outer clutch cover
- Vented airbox cover
- Orange sprocket
- Golden chain
Like what you see? Be sure to hit up KTM’s website for further information on availability.
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