01. Engine & Exhaust
Engine
When maximum power is needed, there is no alternative to the stunning engine of the KTM 450 SMR. It's performance has been demonstrated in the world's toughest competitions such as the AMA 450 Supercross World Championship and the MXGP World Championship.
The SOHC power plant is the perfect example of the advanced engineering techniques offering a peak power at an overall weight of just 27.3 kg. Mass-centralisation is key in the engine design, enabling chassis engineers to position the engine closer to the centre of gravity for great handling and manoeuvrability.
Cylinder head
The KTM 450 SMR is fitted with a lightweight, compact SOHC (single overhead camshaft) cylinder head. The design focusses on mass centralization, contributing to overall handling excellence. The overhead camshaft has a friction-optimized surface and valve timing that delivers impressive responsiveness. The four ultra-lightweight titanium valves (intake 40 mm, exhaust 33 mm) are activated via extremely rigid rocker arms. The rockers on intake side are DLC coated, allowing for impressive engine speeds up to 11,500 rpm. Low-friction chain guides further support the high RPM levels. The innovative head configuration guarantees the most efficient delivery of the unrivalled power, keeping a strong edge over the competition.
Crankshaft
The inertia produced by the crankshaft is carefully calculated to deliver optimal traction and ride-ability from the powerful 450cc plant. The crankshaft is specifically positioned to harness the rotating mass in the ideal centre of gravity resulting in a lightweight and agile handling feel. A plain big end bearing comprising of two force-fitted bearing shells ensure maximum reliability and durability, guaranteeing long service intervals of 100 hours.
Crankcases and engine covers
The compact engine cases are manufactured using a high pressure die-cast production process that helps with weight reduction, while retaining strength and durability. The design allows for optimal shaft arrangements close to the center of gravity, resulting in better mass centralization and easier ride-ability. The engine covers feature a smart surface structure that reduces wear caused by the rider's boots, keeping them looking as fresh as the day you bought it.
Transmission
The lightweight 5-speed gearbox features well-spaced gear ratios for Supermoto and is produced by Pankl Racing Systems ensuring the highest level of durability and reliability.
An advanced gear sensor selects a specific engine map tailored for each gear.
Engine management system
The state-of-the-art KEIHIN Engine Management System, with electronic fuel injection, features a 44 mm throttle body. The injector position guarantees optimal atomization of the fuel and air on the way to the combustion chamber, resulting in instant response and maximum performance when opening the throttle. There are also separate systems for cold starting and idle adjustment. The ECU features maps which have been developed to precisely match the exhaust and cylinder head, with options for regulating traction and launch control. It also provides different maps for each gear, according to the information received from the gear sensor, ensuring maximum power as you shift through the gears.
Cylinder and piston
The lightweight aluminium cylinder is an engineering masterpiece. Featuring a 95 mm bore and a CP bridge-box-type piston which weighs only 320 g. It's design contributes to the engine's low vibrations and overall engine speed strength. Due to the low oscillating masses, the engine is not only powerful, but also displays extremely lively characteristics.
Balancer shaft
The multifunctional side mounted counter balance shaft masterfully balances all the oscillating forces, while also driving the water pump. It effectively keeps engine vibrations to a minimum, resulting in the smoothest ride, even at the highest engine speeds.
Clutch
The KTM 450 SMR features a SUTER antihopping clutch which prevents rear wheel instability and hopping when braking hard into the apex of a turn, for maximum control and perfect Supermoto-style drifting. The Brembo hydraulic system guarantees perfect clutch modulation.
E-Starter
The standard electric starter on the KTM 450 SMR uses a proven starter drive and a strong starter motor made by Mitsuba. As demonstrated time and time again, it provides quick and reliable starting, saving you precious time and energy when you need it most.
Exhaust
When it comes to power delivery and performance, the exhaust on the KTM 450 SMR plays a key role and packs a punch that is hard to beat. It features a model specific header pipe with an advanced resonator called FDH (Flow Design Header), which is a small chamber around the pipe. The design allows the exhaust to be disassembled without removing the shock absorber and also provides better access to the shock. The aluminum sleeve, end cap and internal design of the silencer allows for slimmer ergonomics, making the bike feel narrower, without compromise to regulatory noise limits.
Cooling
Maintaining the optimal engine temperature is crucial to ensuring consistent horsepower throughout the ride. The KTM 450 SMR features radiators which are positioned for a lower the center of gravity. Their design matches the shrouds perfectly and offers a great slim feel to the ergonomics. By using CFD technology (computational fluid dynamics) together with a clever coolant circuit routing, the innovative system ensures the optimum engine temperature for the highest performance, no matter what the conditions. The radiators also feature special protectors that don't only serve as protection from debris but also as a brace that disperses energy around the radiators in the event of an impact.
Engine
The SOHC power plant is the perfect example of the advanced engineering techniques offering a peak power at an overall weight of just 27.3 kg. Mass-centralisation is key in the engine design, enabling chassis engineers to position the engine closer to the centre of gravity for great handling and manoeuvrability.
Cylinder head
Crankshaft
Crankcases and engine covers
Transmission
An advanced gear sensor selects a specific engine map tailored for each gear.
Engine management system
Cylinder and piston
Balancer shaft
Clutch
E-Starter
Exhaust
Cooling
