The components at work here are impressive in terms of capability and race-worthiness. Consider the DWT racing wheels, 20’’ x 6-10’’-inch front tires, 18’’ x 10-8’’-inch rear tires, WP PDS mono-shock, rear track width extender, triple-bearing axle mount for superior durability, protective net under the feet, hydraulic clutch mechanism, fully-adjustable front A-arms, multitube steel frame, Magura brakes and plastic cover to camouflage the headlight. Plus, there’s no reverse!

Plenty of adjustability
The width of the rear axle can be adjusted through aluminum levers -- give or take 10 centimeters -- from wide (improved cornering stability) to narrow (easy rideability on tight trails). The handlebar offers four different positions to accommodate users of all sizes and riding styles. Meanwhile, the seat is wider over the rear fenders and narrower just behind the tank to help aggressive riders lean on their hips in corners.

Body panels are easy to remove and cleaning the air filter requires no tool, which makes for easy maintenance of the ATV. In addition, the front mud guards can also be removed to provide a better view of the trail, something jumpers appreciate a lot.

The handlebar offers four different positions to accommodate users of all sizes and riding styles. (Photo: Maxime Allaire/Moto123.com)

While the competition shifts to aluminum chassis, KTM stays with 4130 chrome moly steel for the chassis. With nearly identical total weights (163 kg for the 450 SX vs 159 for the segment-leading Yamaha YFZ), the KTM multitube chassis offers some clear benefits over aluminum: better absorption of engine vibrations, and some engineered flexibility to improve smoothness and grip in extreme riding conditions, such as ultra-bumpy corner apexes.

Fast and surefooted
While testing the 450 SX on a 4-kilometre enduro trail, the effectiveness of the SX geometry became evident, both in terms of performance and relative ease of use for the aggressive rider. Quick, easy to control in ruts, more precise on tight, bumpy trails, and more stable upon landing, the KTM has the ingredients necessary for great jumping and racing machine.

The brutally-fast 450 SX is not suited for beginners. Open the throttle and it turns into a bundle of dynamite. Sure, pricing may be higher than the competition, but you get the most capable and effective chassis in the entire industry along with a deft suspension that can be adjusted in every way, not to mention an explosive engine and ultra-responsive, almost violent brakes. All these attributes allow the production-spec KTM 450 SX to climb to top of the podium.


Outstanding chassis
Fabulous, high-performing engine
Adjustable suspension and ergonomics
Racing components
Remarkable effectiveness when exiting corners


Ultra-sensitive throttle and brakes
For experienced riders only






None



Photo Credit : Maxime Allaire