KTM is getting ready for a new season of Supercross racing by not only prepping its factory teams, but also prepping two new models to sell based on those teams’ success. The KTM 450 SX-F Factory Edition and the 250 SX-F Factory Edition are both coming soon, with upgrades over the base model bikes.
Don’t expect any changes in the engine or the frame (except for an orange powder-coat on the frame that looks just like the KTM factory race bikes).
While the engine itself doesn’t see internal changes, there is a new titanium slip-on can from Akrapovic that’s supposed to help the bike make power in conjunction with a Twin Air filter. Of course, that new exhaust also saves some weight.
There are also new rad shrouds that are supposed to improve the engine’s cooling, and a Hinson clutch cover comes standard.
Handling on both the 450 and 250 models should be tightened up thanks to new orange-anodized, rubber-damped CNC-milled triple clamps. KTM says they’re built to optimize steering stem stiffness and perfectly align the fork tubes, giving the bike stability in tough terrain.
Tuning-by-wire is quickly taking over the MX racing scene, and these new Factory Edition models both come with KTM’s Connectivity Unit Offroad (CUO, they call it). This two-part system is mounted behind the number plate and then on the front fender, allowing riders to tune the bike via the KTMconnect App, with help from LitPro live timing technology.
The Factory Edition bikes come with a 48mm air-ride WP XACT fork, and a WP Factory Start Device as well. KTM says it gave the shock new low-friction linkage seals and also re-worked the linkage settings to save weight and give a stiffer ride.
Other updates include a new fuel tank holder, frame protectors, skid plate, ODI grips. DID wheels, a gold drivechain and Dunlop GEOMAX MX34 tires. The rear brake pedal is beefed up and the front brake gets a carbon-reinforced brake guard.
Want more details? Ask your dealer; the bikes should be in Canada by February.
