The KTM 450 SX-F has enjoyed lots of success at the highest level of professional supercross and motocross racing in recent years. Ryan Dungey piloted the bike to three consecutive AMA supercross titles in 2015, 2016, and 2017 along with two AMA motocross titles in 2012 and 2015. In Cooper Webb’s first year racing the 450 SX-F in 2019, he won the AMA supercross title as well. The Austrian manufacturer has used its “Ready To Race” slogan to develop the lightest 450cc motocross bike on the market and spec’d it with high-quality components, including a Brembo hydraulic clutch, Brembo brakes, a Pankl transmission, and a Pankl connecting rod.
KTM’s flagship motocross model enjoyed several updates in 2019, some of which included chassis changes that brought more rigidity to the bike. These updates, along with different suspension settings, decreased rider comfort. The ’19 bike’s new airbox and EFI mapping gave it a more lethargic power delivery too. For 2020, KTM addressed these issues with significantly improved suspension settings, revised EFI mapping, and by offering an optional ventilated airbox cover, all of which has resulted in a much better machine.
2020 KTM 450 SX-F First Ride Review