 Following the very successful start to the 2006 Motocross
World Championships, KTM presents this season an entirely new
generation of offroad 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 offroad motorcycles, at the
Spanish Motocross Grand Prix in Bellpuig. Drawing on the enormous
wealth and competence of KTM research and development, the company has
succeeded in pro-ducing an all-round, better-than-ever motorcycle
destined for success on motocross racing circuits around the world.
New engine for superior rideability
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.
Consistently better chassis
A
totally new chassis has been developed to help translate the
astonishing 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 slight 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 collectively transforms the SX chassis into the most advanced,
high-quality unit in the entire offroad sector.
Even faster through perfect ergonomics
When
it comes to all the plastic componentsfor the new SX generation, the
KTM development engineers have paid special attention to perfect
ergonomics and maximum ease of use. It is often the case that the first
serious feedback that serves as the key to success comes as a result of
tough off-road application. This is why 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
that represents an unmistakable aesthetic milestone for KTM.
Success right from the start
The
new 450 SX-F underwent a baptism of fire in great style at the highest
level. MX1-factory rider Jonathan Barragan, who has been playing an
important and consultative role in the development process,
demonstrated the immense potential of the new motocross ‘generation’ in
Bellpuig. He was an excellent 4th just behind nine times World Champion
Stefan Everts in the first race as well as scoring 7th in the second at
the Spanish Grand Prix last week underlines the performance potential
of the new KTM 450 SX-F.
“I am really happy with the new bike,”
he said. “The engine is strong with a softer power delivery. The
plastics are new and the tank feels a little wider but my impressions
are good and I am keen to keep developing the bike.”
Motocross
fans throughout the world however will still need a little patience
before the final release of this model. 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
CHASSIS
Frame: Chromium molybdenum
Subframe: Titanium
Handlebar: Aluminium
Front suspension: WP-USD 52 MA
Rear suspension: WP-PDS shock absorber
Suspension travel front/rear: 300 / 335 mm
Front brakes: Disc brake 260 mm
Rear brakes: Disc brake 220 mm
Front/rear rims: 1.6 x 21'' / 2.15 x 19''
Front/rear tyres: 80/100-21'' / 110/90-19''
Transmission ratio: 14:50
Main silencer: Titanium
Steering head angle: 63.5°
Wheel caster: 112 mm
Wheelbase: 1481±10 mm
Ground clearance (unloaded): 380mm
Seat height (unloaded): 925mm
Fuel capacity: approx. 7 liters
Weight: approx. 100 kg
Photo courtesy of R. Archer.
www.ktm.at
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