Motorcycle specifications KTM450 EXC-F 2018

The power-to-weight ratio of this motorcycle's compact dual overhead camshaft engine means it can rise to any challenge. With its unrivalled manoeuvrability and foolproof suspension, it will get its rider out of any situation... Light, nimble and intrepid, this 4-stroke will take you where no one else dares to go, at uncommon speed.

eNGINE

small in size, giant in performance. Modifications to the KTM 450 EXC-F's fuel-injected SOHC (single overhead camshaft) engine have made it one of the most compact and lightest 450 cm3s on the market, while maintaining a staggering level of performance across the entire rev range. A top-quality engine served by cutting-edge technologies. And since it's Euro IV approved, it's sure to make others green with envy.

cULASSE

the single overhead camshaft controls intake and exhaust via optimized ports. The state-of-the-art combustion chamber and water jacket take care of explosion quality and heat dissipation. The four valves are operated by ultra-rigid rocker arms. To dampen vibrations, the engine is securely fastened to the frame by two side brackets.

cRANKSHAFT

the crankshaft of the KTM 450 EXC-F uses a shortened connecting rod. More compact and lighter, the engine also gains in responsiveness. The crankshaft features a connecting-rod bearing and two bearing shells press-fitted directly into the crankpin. This bearing is supplied with oil from the engine's pressure lubrication system. This type of design, combined with the connecting-rod bearing, greatly extends the crankshaft maintenance interval. That's one less thing to worry about.

cYLINDER AND PISTON

the 95 mm-bore cylinder houses a forged bridge-box piston with an ultra-light piston pin. The geometry of the piston head, perfectly adapted to the combustion chamber, features a rigid structure and reduced weight. Reduced oscillating masses give the engine its smooth, energetic character.

bALANCER SHAFT

to balance mass forces, the engine of the KTM 450 EXC-F uses a side-mounted multifunction balancer shaft that also controls the water pump. perfectly balanced, it minimizes vibrations even at full throttle.

cRANKCASES AND ENGINE COVERS

the design of the molded crankcases has a dual benefit: maximum weight reduction and a highly centralized shaft configuration for even greater engine compactness and more efficient weight distribution. Crankcase covers feature a solid surface structure designed to reduce wear caused by the rider's boots.

eNGINE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

the Keihin engine management system with electronic fuel injection features a 42 mm throttle body. Thanks to the injector's unique position, engine response is truly instantaneous. And because idle and cold start do not use the same circuits, on-site adjustment is much easier. Once the engine is sufficiently warm, simply lower the throttle to deactivate the cold-start mode.

eLECTRIC STARTER

the KTM 450 EXC-F comes with an electric starter as standard.this is a decisive advantage when it comes to reducing lap times in competition. Operated at the touch of a button, this ultra-powerful electric starter coupled with a highly reliable lithium-ion battery won't let you down anytime soon. Also with a view to lightening the bike, the kick starter has simply been removed.

eMBRAYAGE

the KTM 450 EXC-F uses a DDS (Damped Diaphragm Steel) clutch developed by KTM. a wear-free steel clutch housing, heat-resistant clutch plates and new nitrate-treated steel liners. This clever design is distinguished by the use of a diaphragm spring instead of the usual coil springs, giving the clutch greater flexibility. The diaphragm spring also leaves plenty of room for a damping system integrated into the clutch hub, to enhance traction and durability. The clutch is activated by a hydraulic system manufactured by Brembo, which plays an essential role in the clutch's progressiveness and flexibility.

gEARBOX

to enhance the reliability of the 6-speed gearbox, the surface of the pinions has been specially treated for 2nd, 3rd and 4th gears. The "zero dirt" design of the selector prevents the lever joint from clogging and jamming, and guarantees ultra-precise gear changes even on the muddiest terrain. All EXC-F 4-stroke engines are equipped with an engaged-gear sensor to adapt the engine's characteristics to each gear. On the AM18, the gearbox shaft features a new C4 bearing with increased radial clearance. This enhances reliability, even under the most demanding operating conditions. The selector obtained by the MIM (metal injection molding) manufacturing process offers an unrivalled level of reliability.

fRAME

the high-tech chromium-molybdenum steel frame is a model of lightness, flexibility and handling.the high-tech chromium-molybdenum steel frame, a model of lightness, flexibility and maneuverability, offers excellent stability and diabolical precision when cornering. Thanks to its high torsional stiffness and low longitudinal rigidity, this frame better absorbs the energy generated by the front and rear suspensions when jumping or negotiating a bump. The ride is more comfortable and less tiring. The dropouts that link the cylinder head to the frame are as light as ever. Mounted laterally, they help limit vibration levels. Two threaded inserts have been provided in the lower cradle tubes to add a shoe, should the need arise. The engineers can be proud of their work, as the frame is now one kilo lighter than the lightest competing frame on the market today. Every effort has also been made to facilitate maintenance and free up space for the tank and other components. The ultra-light buckle, made of stable aluminum profiles, weighs in at less than 900 grams.

sWINGING ARM

the latest-crime swingarm optimizes the position of the PDS shock absorber for even smoother entry into action. In addition to weight savings, cast aluminum is ideal for bending. The one-piece molding process eliminates the imperfections inherent in welding, guaranteeing more consistent manufacturing quality.

fOOTREST

sophisticated "zero-dirt" footrests prevent the gear selector from fouling, even when passing through deep ruts. To enhance ground clearance, the gear selector on EXC models has been raised by 6 mm compared to that on SX models.

bRAKES

more responsive, more efficient and more powerful, Brembo calipers will cope with any situation. These little jewels of technology are combined with Wave brake discs, renowned for their lightness. The stainless-steel front brake hose features effective protection and a cable guide for the speedo wire.

fRONT SUSPENSION

the WP XPlor 48 upside-down fork is a fork with separate damping circuits, developed by WP in close collaboration with KTM. Each fork leg is equipped with a spring and has a different function: the left leg handles compression damping, while the right leg handles rebound. To fine-tune each of these settings, simply turn the knob at the top of the fork. New outer tubes and setups have also improved sensitivity, lightened weight and optimized fork damping behavior. To reduce the risk of bottoming, the fork is equipped with a sealed hydraulic stop. High-quality materials, an ultra-sophisticated production process, 300 mm of travel: nothing has been left to chance to make the new WP Xplor 48 fork the ultimate in responsiveness and damping. The preload adjuster (available as retrofit) makes it easy to set spring preload to three levels (standard, +3 mm, +6 mm), without the need for tools.

rEAR SUSPENSION

a true KTM trademark, the PDS shock absorber is connected directly to the upper part of the swingarm. As a result, engineers were able to mount it in the most appropriate position for even more progressive damping. As the shock absorber has been moved closer to the central axis, the loads exerted on the swingarm and frame are virtually symmetrical. This also frees up space for the exhaust system. The second piston, combined with a cup-shaped limit stop (instead of a needle-type one) and supported by a progressive-action spring, guarantees excellent resistance to bottoming. With its various machined and anodized components and its characteristic WP color scheme, this ultra-sophisticated shock absorber makes a strong impression compared to less well finished competing products.

gUIDON

profiled and made from high-strength aluminum, these NEKEN handlebars feature a meticulousthrottle response mechanism, robust aluminum handlebars and an ultra-easy-to-use adjustment system. right: an ODI vulcanized grip; left: the ODI lock-on grip, as comfortable as it is practical, thanks to its glueless, wire-free mounting system. And thanks to two interchangeable cams (retrofittable), you can adapt the throttle response to suit your riding style. An optional power curve button lets you change engine mapping and activate the traction control system for extra punch in wet conditions.

fORK TIPS

eXC-F models feature forged fork tees with a 22 mm offset, for improved fork support and even more precise front-end behavior. Four positions are possible on the EXC-F to move the handlebars forward or back for a perfect grip.

fUEL TANK

thanks to its transparent plastic, the ultra-light 8.5-liter polyethylene fuel tank lets you know at a glance how much fuel is left. To refuel, simply press the orange button in the center of the fuel cap to open the bayonet mechanism. This model features an integrated fuel pump system and fuel level indicator. The 90-degree fuel line connection further protects the fuel tank from damage.

aIR FILTER HOUSING

the air filter housing has been designed to protect the air filter from clogging and ensure optimum air flow. The cage housing the extra-large Twin Air air filter is totally rigid, helping to hold the system in place. The design is so simple that the filter can be replaced even with a muddy face. And all in a matter of seconds, with no tools required.

eXHAUST

respecting noise emission levels is a real challenge for all manufacturers. That's why KTM has spared no effort in developing state-of-the-art exhaust systems. All four-strokes feature a relatively short, high-end aluminum rear silencer mounted as close as possible to the engine. The benefits are threefold: more power, better mass centralization and enhanced driving pleasure. The internal design has also reached a significant degree of sophistication to keep noise levels well below recommended thresholds, while guaranteeing the level of responsiveness and performance you'd expect from a KTM.

wHEELS

featuring ultra-light CNC-machined hubs and top-of-the-range Giant rims, the EXC-F's wheels guarantee maximum stability despite limited weight. And because they are shod with MAXXIS tires, the bike is just as comfortable and safe off-road as it is on the road.

cOOLING SYSTEM

kTM's proven integrated cooling system circulates coolant from the cylinder head via the frame triangle to the aluminum radiators supplied by WP. Its incredible efficiency is due to improved management of internal airflow and advances in ventilation thanks to CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) calculations. The new radiator protections offer the advantage of better heat dissipation. This is all the more true in the presence of mud. Integrated into the front spoilers, these radiator guards are particularly useful in the event of an impact.

sADDLE

tailored to provide a comfortable support surface for enduro riding, this ultra-strong saddle has been lowered by 10 mm to enable the rider to maintain perfect control of the bike, even on the most demanding terrain.

bATTERY AND WIRING HARNESS

the starter motor is combined with a powerful lithium-ion battery, which represents a significant weight saving over the previous model. The battery and wiring harness are grouped together in a compartment above the air-filter housing, to avoid interference with the electrical circuit when removing the buckle. Mechanics and do-it-yourselfers will appreciate this.

cARENAGE

kTM factory riders collaborated on the bike's design with KTM R&D specialists and the Kiska design agency, with a single watchword: to create perfect harmony between rider and machine. Particular attention has been paid to ergonomics and rider contact points, to enhance freedom of movement and comfort on the EXC-F. The special shape of the front and rear mudguards guarantees maximum stability and minimum weight, thanks to a well thought-out structure and assembly. Best of all, they stay clean longer. The clever mounting of the brake hose on the cross front plate also reduces wear and tear, while the new deco kit confirms the READY TO RACE character of the 2018 KTM EXC-F range.

News and media credits: KTM