2018-1/2 KTM 450SXF FACTORY EDITION FIRST LOOK

For 2018 the KTM 450SXF Factory Edition is the same machine that will be raced by Marvin Musquin and Broc Tickle at the highest level in the AMA 450 Supercross series. These highly sought after KTM Factory Edition machines feature a reworked chassis with new bodywork, an updated engine and new suspension settings with new triple clamp to ensure its owner will rise above the competition with agile, powerful performance at the lowest weight in its class.

Here is a quick list of some of the changes:
1. Red Bull KTM Factory Racing graphics
2. Triple clamps anodized in orange
3. Hinson factory clutch cover
4. Factory holeshot device
5. Orange frame
6. Composite skid plate
7. D.I.D Dirt Star rims
8. Factory seat with Selle Dalla Valle logo
9. Floating front disc
10. New rear disc design
11.Front brake disc guard
12.Orange rear sprocket

EXHAUST SYSTEM
A new header pipe features a reshaped flow-designed resonance chamber that is seamlessly integrated into the head pipe. A new position for the joint between the muffler and header makes it possible to remove the header without having to remove the shock absorber. The new muffler is shorter and more compact to bring the weight closer to the center of gravity while delivering the same performance and competition-legal noise levels.

WP AER 48 FORK
The WP AER 48 is a split function fork featuring a capsulated air spring and pressurized oil chamber for consistent and progressive damping while offering supreme adjustability. Air spring adjustment is simple with the factory supplied WP digital air pump. The KTM 450SXF Factory Edition is also fitted with a mechanical holeshot device on the right fork for the proper weight distribution and ride height for getting to the first turn ahead of the competition.

COOLING SYSTEM
New to the CFD (computational fluid dynamics) designed cooling system are redesigned radiators to compliment the thinner bodywork and a larger center tube for more consistent coolant flow with reduced pressure and turbulence.

WP SHOCK ABSORBER
The WP DCC shock absorber has been updated with a new main piston and setting to provide optimized damping characteristics while keeping the weight low and the body compact.

BRAKES
A 260mm floating front brake rotor is matched to a Brembo master cylinder and caliper for class-leading stopping power and feel. A front brake protector is fitted as standard equipment on the KTM 450SXF Factory Edition.

BODYWORK
Redesigned to offer the highest levels of maneuverability, the new KTM 450SXF Factory Edition bodywork has reshaped ergonomics and contact points. Now slimmer with a new seat, the new design makes it easier to ride harder for longer.

FRAME
The KTM 450SXF Factory Edition’s frame features an increase in torsional rigidity for improved bump absorption, stability and rider feedback. A new aluminum subframe is 40mm longer for a stiffer rear section. The orange powder-coated frame is fitted with color matching frame protectors and a carbon fiber reinforced skid plate.

WHEELS
The KTM 450SXF Factory Edition is fitted with black D.I.D. rims attached to CNC-machined hubs by lightweight spokes and silver anodized aluminum nipples for a lightweight and strong wheel. Dunlop Geomax MX3S tires put the power to the ground using the proven block-within-a-block design.

SWINGARM
A new swingarm that has a 5mm longer rear wheel axle slot giving the option of a longer wheel base for better straight-line stability.

CYLINDER HEAD
The already compact SOHC powerplant is now one pound lighter and shorter for better mass centralization. At 15mm lower the redesigned cylinder head puts the camshaft closer to the center of gravity of the KTM 450SXF Factory Edition. The cam features a new surface treatment and rides on low-friction DLC rocker arms to actuate lightweight titanium valves. A low-friction cam chain completes the highly efficient and compact valve train. Note in the photo directly above how straight the exhaust spot exits the head.

BATTERY
Along with the benefit of an easy E-starter, a new generation 2 Ah lithium ion starter battery is fitted to the KTM 450SXF Factory Edition. The lithoim ion starter battery is super lightweight. Offering the convenience of electric starting, overall weight is being kept to a minimum.

TRANSMISSION
The transmission of the KTM 450SXF Factory Edition is now produced by Pankl and features optimized material, design and heat treatment.

THROTTLE BODY
A 44mm Keihin throttle body features new cable routing for easier maintenance. The direct mounting of the cable without linkage offer instant throttle response with excep- tional feel.

MAP SELECT SWITCH, TRACTION CONTROL & LAUNCH CONTROL
An easy to operate map select switch housing contains the ability to select between two engine maps, to turn on and off traction control and to activate traction control all in one unit. Bright LED lights indicate the functions clearly. Traction control uses throttle position and rpm rates to register rear wheel grip and adjusts the output accordingly. Launch control limits the power to the rear wheel to improve traction on starts for the best possible forward drive under hard acceleration.

CLUTCH
The KTM 450SXF Factory Edition features a DDS (damp- ened diaphragm steel) Clutch that is actuated hydraulically by a Brembo master and slave cylinder. The single diaphragm steel pressure plate offers better feel and function than a traditional multiple coil spring setup. The damping system provides better traction and reliability while the CNC-machined basket allows for thin steel liners for a compact design. A special replica Hinson billet clutch cover is fitted to the Factory Edition.