Following the very successful start to the 2006 Motocross World Championships, KTM announced an entirely new generation of off-road machines. The spearhead of the new range is the 450 SX-F. KTM has chosen to present the 450 SX-F, the first model of this new generation of off-road motorcycles, at the Spanish Motocross Grand Prix in Bellpuig.

NEW ENGINE

Left side of the engine.

Right side of engine.

Standing tall, the all-new 450F sports an electric start.

For 2007, the KTM 450 weighs in at a mere 226 pounds.

The new 450 SX-F is driven by a completely re-developed 4-stroke single cylinder engine with 449 ccm displacement and twin overhead camshafts. Four super-lightweight titanium valves and a DLC- coated rocker arm work together with the compact cylinder head of the engine with high revving abilities. For the first time, the bike comes with an electric starter to set the 59hp power unit with its Keihin carburetor in motion. The application of this new technology means a significant time saving at the start and also carves valuable seconds off a rider's times during the races.

BETTER CHASSIS
A totally new chassis has been developed to help the performance of the 450 SX-F engine into a positive and effective tool on the racing circuit. The frame, made from generously dimensioned, oval tubular profile, is particularly innovative, because it allows for slightly more space for the cooling system. Improved rigidity means that the weight of the new frame can be further reduced.

The new, weight-optimized, light cast metal rocker, new geometric data from the latest PDS absorber system as well as a totally new WP Suspension upside down fork with integrated cartridge absorber system, transforms the SX chassis.

ERGONOMICS
When it comes to all the plastic components for the new SX generation, the KTM development engineers have paid special attention to ergonomics and maximum ease of use. The 450 SX-F is the first model of the new generation that features a fresh design for the tank section that now has a distinctively larger contact surface. In order to achieve the best possible feeling with the rider in every situation, the seat has also been totally overhauled. The new SX, with its numerous modifications, also has a new and very aggressive appearance.

TESTING IN COMPETITION
The new 450 SX-F was raced by MX1-factory rider, Jonathan Barragan, who has been playing an important role in the development process. He demonstrated the immense potential of the new bike in Bellpuig. He was an excellent 4th , just behind World Champion Stefan Everts in the first race, as well as scoring 7th in the second at the Spanish Grand Prix last weekend.

Along with the new lines of KTM 125 SX, 250 SX and the 250 SX-F machines, the 450 SX-F will be officially presented to the international media in Mattighofen at the end of June. Delivery of the entire latest generation of KTM SX will follow immediately after.

TECHNICAL DATA FOR THE FACTORY KTM 450 SX-F

ENGINE
Engine Type: Single cylinder, 4-stroke
Displacement (cc): 449.3
Bore x Stroke (mm): 97 / 60.8
Compression ratio: 12,5 : 1
Performance: approx. 59 HP
Starter: electric starter
Transmission: 4 gears
Carburetor: Keihin MX FCR 41
Control: 4V / DOHC with finger levers
Primary ratio: 29 : 74
Final drive: 5/8 x 1/4"
Cooling: Liquid cooled
Clutch: Wet multi-disc clutch, operated hydraulically
Ignition: Kokusan digital CDI