TM MX 450 Fi: Dirt | First Ride

Top-tier factory racebikes are often referred to as "works," even though the machines in AMA professional motocross and supercross are in fact based on production models. Prior to a 1986 rule change, however, works bikes were in fact hand-built prototypes of the highest caliber and greatest rarity. The reality is that even in the elite Motocross Grands Prix, true works bikes are few and far between. Yet TM production bikes fit the definition of a works bike to a tee.

Hand-built in Italy since 1976, TM motorcycles have always been exotic and exclusive; rare and unusual even in Europe. Recently the marque reunited with Pete Vetrano and Motoman-the most successful of TM's U.S. importers- to reinvigorate the brand. There are several reasons for the return of TM, and renewed interest in the machines. One reason is the bikes themselves and their raw, elemental, bristling-billet look. The second is that TM's MX 450 Fi is a fun and competitive motocross machine.

Mechanics who wrenched on true "works" machines joke that they were called that because they needed so much work! Some examples came with the parts to build the wheels and cones for the mechanic to weld into a pipe. Early TMs were something like that: expensive, cool-looking "kit bikes" with some R&D; required. But the new MX 450 Fi is the most dialed-in and polished TM ever, and at a price only a few hundred dollars higher than more pedestrian, mass-produced machines. No doubt the fact that the factory is currently competing in the MX1 World Championship has helped bolster its reputation.

Once we'd spent time admiring the 450, it was time to ride it. In the past, that first ride could be the beginning of the end of "TM Envy," but no longer. This bike has a shockingly normal feel with a nice saddle and a riding position that makes it effortless to move around on. It feels slim without being too much so. TM has never been anxious to reinvent the wheel, thus the company's machines often bear a striking resemblance to Japanese models, or parts thereof. To our way of thinking, using proven ideas pays off big for a small company. The MX 450 Fi is plenty unique in its level of finish, and the resemblance to mainstream brands simply means it feels familiar.

Subtle facets of performance that small companies can miss are a hit with the TM. The seat is firm but comfy, and control feel is excellent. The bike kick-starts easily when cold or warm and throttle response is smooth and crisp. One area where the TM feels very European is power delivery: While the flywheel is light and revs build instantly when you snap open the throttle, delivery is smooth and power builds steadily throughout the rev range. Riders who find the new generation of fuel-injected Japanese 450s too "snappy" will find the TM a joy, especially on wide-open tracks. If you love your Yamaha YZ450F, the MX 450 Fi will feel too docile down low and lacking in significant "hit" for tight and jumpy tracks. But where there's room to let the revs build, the TM is a monster with a top-end pull that makes big-hitters like KTM's 450 SX-F feel sleepy.

Shifting is clean, clutch engagement is linear and gear spacing is appropriate as well. The other area that doesn't feel like a current 450 is engine braking. It isn't severe, but is more noticeable than on other bikes in this class. You soon learn to ease the throttle off approaching turns or over jumps. At times we even delayed downshifts, but this was more a trait to get used to rather than an annoyance.

Elsewhere in the world TMs come standard with German Sachs shocks, with Swedish Ohlins available as an option. But Vetrano feels U.S. buyers will want the premium damper, so all of the bike's he's importing will be Ohlins-equipped. Up front is a Marzocchi 50mm fork-which is where the work in this "works" bike fits in. The shock is quite good on all sorts of tracks and terrain, but the fork isn't as plush. We know the Marzocchi fork can be made to work exceptionally well, but as delivered it is merely functional. That truly is our biggest complaint, and it didn't prevent us from enjoying the bike on two drastically different tracks: fast, rough and sandy Glen Helen and hard-packed, jumpy Piru.

If you've got a hankering for a truly unique, "works" motocross machine, the TM is tailor-made for you.

EVOLUTION
A refined 450cc motocrosser featuring EFI and a generous helping of Italian style.

RIVALS
Aprilia MXV450, Husqvarna TC450, KTM 450 SX-F.

Tech

VERDICT 4.5 out of 5 stars

A works bike that doesn't require extra work.

TM MX 250 Fi

Same, Only Smaller
While we were at Glen Helen, we were able to compare TM's MX 250 Fi to its big brother. The 250 shares many traits with the 450, such as excellent handling, comfort, control effort and feel. Power is similar in character, as well: The bottom end is a bit soft while the top end seems to grow forever. Shift and clutch action are critical on a 250, and the TM holds up to scrutiny with no trouble.

There is some bad news, though: First, the $9306 price isn't that far from the 450's, and is more expensive than any other 250. TM points out that it costs just as much to build a 250 as a 450 if the components are the same, and they certainly are. Second, the 250 proved harder to start than the 450. And last, as we have seen with some other European 250s, the TM's off-idle throttle response is less refined than that of a carbureted bike-though for riders who keep the bike singing, this will never be an issue.

The TM MX 250 Fi is certainly a fun ride, and like the 450 works better at fast tracks. It's just not as refined as it could be.