KTM 450 SX-F 2014: POWER FOR ALL
SUPERIOR CHASSIS
FRAME
The modern frame design of the SX models, comprising lightweight, high strength, chrome-molybdenum steel section tubes, combines maximum longitudinal stiffness with optimum torsional stiffness. It guarantees easy handling and precise steering behaviour, as well as excellent ride stability.
SWINGARM
The cast aluminium swingarm has been developed with state-of-the-art calculation and simulation software and constructed, in terms of design and wall thickness, for minimum weight with optimum stiffness and precisely defined flexibility. For the 2014 model year, our engineers have revised the chainguide and its attachment points to the swingarm for the benefit of higher functional reliability, while simultaneously reducing the weight.
SUSPENSION/DAMPING
Both the rear shock absorber and the 48 mm upside-down fork from WP Suspension guarantee ultimate damping and responsiveness. Thanks to optimised tuning, the telescopic fork excels with even higher reserves against bottoming out in MY 2014. Naturally, rebound and compression damping can be adapted individually to the track and rider in no time at all – while high and low-speed compression damping can also be adjusted on the rear shock absorber.
TRIPLE CLAMPS
High quality, CNC-machined triple clamps have long since been standard equipment at KTM. They ensure precise handling and provide a perceptible boost to the flexing characteristics and hence the responsiveness of the telescopic fork.
EXHAUST SYSTEM
The FIM noise limits represent a major challenge for manufacturers of motocross motorcycles, which KTM is confronting with substantial R&D investment. On the 450 SX‑F, hydroformed components and an additional HRS resonator chamber (Header Resonator System) ensure greater torque, while also reducing noise.
TOP ERGONOMICS
BODYWORK
KTM engineers have focussed on designing the bodywork ergonomically and functionally in such a way that the whole motorcycle is in perfect harmony with the rider down to the very last detail. The front fender is a perfect example of how moulded plastic components can gain maximum stability with a well thought out structure and well-conceived attachment.
SEAT
The ergonomically perfectly designed seat is equipped with an improved foam core for the 2014 model year, ensuring both greater comfort and higher stability.
AIR BOX
At the same time, the design of the airbox guarantees optimum protection of the air filter from dirt plus maximum air throughput for the highest performance. Quick replacement of the twin-air filter - without tools and in a matter of seconds - has long since been an unrivalled KTM standard.
FUEL TANK
All models in the SX range are equipped with a new, lightweight, polyethylene, 7.5 litre fuel tank, which has been revised in the area of the filler cap internal thread and can be closed even more easily and reliably with a new filler cap. The fuel pump system used on the four-stroke motocross models is the same as that used on the four-stroke enduro models, thereby allowing optional installation of larger tanks from the PowerParts range or from the enduro models.
HANDLEBAR
All SX models are equipped with the extremely sturdy, tapered Renthal Fatbar 827 handlebar that features an offset specially designed to meet the demands of motocross. In accordance with the proven KTM standard, the handlebar can be fixed in a choice of four positions. A large Renthal crash pad, still in classy black/silver for 2014, provides the rider with effective impact protection.
GRAPHICS
A new, refined graphic design with clear lines underlines the high demands made of a modern, state-of-the-art offroad motorcycle.
UNRIVALLED HANDLING
WHEELS
The wheels feature CNC-machined hubs, high-end Excel rims and black coated spokes with lightweight aluminium nipples, allowing the highest levels of stability to be achieved while keeping weight to a minimum. The fitted Pirelli Scorpion MX Mid Soft 32 tyres excel with perfect traction and outstanding performance.
BRAKES
High-tech brakes from Brembo have always been standard equipment on KTM offroad bikes and, together with the lightweight wave brake discs, they are the measure of all things in terms of brake technology. A newly developed handbrake armature has been employed for the 2014 model year, with new remote reservoir, smaller brake piston diameter and new levers with optimised lever kinematics. As a result and thanks to optimised brake pads, performance and application of the front brake have been perceptibly improved again.
PROFESSIONAL PERFORMANCE POTENTIAL
ENGINE
The compact 60hp powerhouse, featuring an overhead camshaft and state-of-the-art electronic fuel injection system, excels with unrivalled performance and highly efficient power development. Modifications to the engine case have further reduced the weight for the 2014 model year.
CYLINDER HEAD
In the cylinder head of the 450 SX‑F engine, an overhead camshaft actuates four ultra-light titanium valves via extremely stiff, DLC-coated rocker arms on the intake side. This configuration allows engine speeds of over 11,500 rpm to be achieved and makes a major contribution to the unique performance of the high-capacity KTM engine. A new, three-layer, cylinder head gasket has been fitted for the 2014 model year, which guarantees even greater durability in the most extreme conditions. Furthermore, the now lightened camshaft has a strengthened auto-decompression mechanism at its disposal.
PISTONS
In the cylinder with a bore of 95 mm, an extremely light, box-in-box, forged piston works away, making a significant contribution to the engine's low vibration level and engine-speed strength on account of its low weight. The compression ratio is 12.6:1. Optimised for the 2014 model year, the piston pin ensures even greater durability.
CRANKSHAFT
The crankshaft with 63.4 mm stroke on the 450 SX‑F is equipped with a plain bearing in the lower conrod eye. Two press-fit bearing shells run directly on the crankshaft's crank pin. The engine's direct pressure lubrication system ensures the necessary oil supply for the bearing. This design is a key factor behind the extremely high engine speed and impressive peak power of the 450 SX‑F engine. Another decisive benefit for the customer is that it has been possible to extend the service interval for the crankshaft thanks to the plain bearing.
BALANCER SHAFT
The laterally positioned balancer shaft acts simultaneously as a drive for the water pump. Thanks to the perfect counterbalancing and lower reciprocating weight of the power unit, it has been possible to keep engine vibration within narrow limits, even at the highest revs.
ENGINE CASE
Manufactured in a die-casting process, the engine case has been further refined for the 2014 model year. It has been possible to further reduce weight compared to its predecessor by eliminating the kickstarter dome.
CLUTCH
The 450 SX‑F engine is fitted with the DDS (Damped Diaphragm Steel) clutch developed by KTM, which features a wear-free steel cage and extremely heat-resistant friction linings. This design is distinguished by use of a diaphragm spring instead of the otherwise customary conical springs, thereby reducing the operating force substantially. The stronger design of diaphragm spring for MY 2014 also provides space for integrated hub damping – a benefit in terms of traction and durability. Reinforced for the 2014 model year, the inner clutch hub likewise guarantees even greater durability. The hydraulic clutch actuation system from Brembo, with new clutch armature, ensures smooth and very precise clutch control.
TRANSMISSION
The 450 SX‑F is equipped with a lightweight four-speed transmission designed especially to match the characteristics of the high-capacity engine and featuring optimised gear tooth geometry. The 450 SX‑F is supplied on the US market with a five-speed transmission, which may be slightly heavier, but it is tailored to the requirements of American customers.
ENGINE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (EMS)
In conjunction with the revolutionary injector position developed by KTM, the Keihin engine management system, with electronic fuel injection and 44 mm throttle body, ensures spontaneous responsiveness and maximum engine performance. The wiring harness on the 450 SX‑F has been further simplified for the 2014 model year and the quality of cables and plugs improved. Many connectors are now enclosed in new rubber grommets to protect them from steam-jet pressure. Various engine characteristics can also still be selected via the EMS, with a map-select switch available as a PowerPart. Furthermore, a user-setting tool (also available as an option) allows data to be read from the bike by laptop and the mapping, ignition and fuel injection to be modified in a matter of a few mouse clicks.
ELECTRIC STARTER
Like all KTM four-stroke motorcycles, the 450 SX‑F can also be started simply at the press of a button. The electric starter can be an invaluable benefit, especially in the heat of a motocross battle.
With the 450 SX‑F, KTM has a winning motorcycle in its range, which derives its potential from a high-capacity engine and a chassis perfectly tuned to the power unit. Ryan Dungey won the 2012 title in the AMA MX1 class with this machine and he saw no reason whatsoever to change bikes for his title defence. No wonder; the compact SOHC engine guarantees brutal yet controllable power with its revolutionary injection technology. Above all, the 450 SX‑F scores highly compared with other large four-strokes in terms of performance and handling. It's the right choice for every motocross rider in the MX1 class for whom torque and performance combined with controllable rideability are pivotal.
TECHNICAL DETAILS
ENGINE
| Design | single cylinder, 4-stroke, SOHC, 4-Valve |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 449.3 cm³ |
| Bore | 95 mm |
| Stroke | 63.4 mm |
| Starting aid | Electric starter |
| Transmission | 4-gear, claw shifted |
| Engine lubrication | Pressure circulation lubrication with two Eaton pumps |
| Primary transmission | 32:76 |
| Secondary gear ratio | 14:50 |
| Cooling | Water cooling, permanent circulation of coolant by water pump |
| Clutch | Wet multi-disc clutch DDS / Brembo hydraulics |
| Ignition | Contactless controlled fully electronic ignition with digital ignition adjustment |
CHASSIS
| Frame | Central tubular frame made from chrome molybdenum steel tubes |
|---|---|
| Shock absorber | WP Suspension 5018 BAVP DCC |
| Suspension travel Front | 300 mm |
| Suspension travel Rear | 330 mm |
| Brake system | Disc brakes, floating brake calipers |
| Brake discs - diameter front | 260 mm |
| Brake discs - diameter rear | 220 mm |
| Chain | 5/8 x 1/4" |
| Steering head angle | 63.5° |
| Wheel base | 1,495±10 mm |
| Ground clearance (unloaded) | 371 mm |
| Seat height (unloaded) | 992 mm |
| Total fuel tank capacity approx. |
7.5 l Unleaded premium fuel (95 RON) |
| Weight without fuel approx. | 106.1 kg |
