2023 KTM 450 XC-F

2023 KTM 450 XC-F

The 2023 KTM 450 XC-F rolls into the pits already armed with the learnings of past championships - but now it's blistering with an all-new arsenal of weaponry. Being the leading 4-Stroke in the Cross Country division for the year, the KTM 450 XC-F once again brings its undeniable READY TO RACE spirit to the starting line with a relentless assault on the podium. A new frame, new rear shock, better electronics, and more performance all mean one thing - it's time to extend the trophy room.

Features may include:

• ENGINE

The 2023 KTM 450 XC-F boasts one of the most manic 4-Stroke powerplants in the pits, with its SOHC engine proving to be the perfect example of advanced engineering. For 2023, the engine is tilted 2° backward with a lower sprocket position, which together with the benefits of mass centralization and reduced weight, makes the anti-squat behavior of the chassis second to none. With a massive peak power output and an overall engine weight of only 59 lb, you'll leave the competition with more than a little mud on the face.

• Frame

No matter how gnarly the trail is, you'll stay in complete control thanks to an all-new frame design that has not only been engineered for longitudinal rigidity, but also repositions rotating mass closer to the center of gravity. Thicker frame walls also improve reliability, flex characteristics and offer unmatched rider feel. A new shock mounting also provides improved anti-squat behavior for better traction out of corners, while the footpeg mounting position has moved inwards for less risk of hooking up on roots or rocks. Additionally, the inclusion of forged brackets on the lower frame rails allows for easy installation of the skid plate.

• POLYAMIDE-REINFORCED ALUMINIUM SUBFRAME

Weighing in at only 4 lb, the new 2-piece polyamide (60%) reinforced aluminum (40%) subframe provides impressive weight savings. With the help of computational dynamics, carefully calculated rigidity was engineered into the subframe, delivering outstanding handling and feedback, while remaining robust and reliable.

• WP XACT FRONT SUSPENSION

48 mm air type WP XACT front fork with a split damping function provides all the confidence you need to attack the trails. New hydrostops in the fork legs improve bottoming-out resistance and account for less rebound when attacking big bumps while hauling across country. Redesigned fork protection rings also increase protection against dirt, making them as reliable as they are awesome.

• FUNCTIONAL BODYWORK

The 2023 KTM XC and XC-F range feature an entirely new and improved rider triangle, providing improved knee contact - especially when standing on the pegs - with improved gripping surfaces all around. New plastics work to expel mud buildup in wet, muddy conditions, with a new, flatter seat profile and high-grip orange seat cover providing exceptional rider movement and control. A handy grip pocket under the seat, just above the airbox, makes gripping the bike and lifting it much easier. In terms of graphics, the 2023 KTM XC and XC-F design takes its cue from the early 1990s when purple was one of KTM's predominant colors.

• MAP SELECT SWITCH

The 2023 KTM 450 XC-F features a map select switch as standard, allowing the racer to switch between 2 perceptible engine maps. Map 1 provides a linear, predictable power delivery, while Map 2 gives it the full beans with crisp, explosive power output. Using the same switchgear, the rider can toggle between Traction control, Launch Control and the new Quickshifter functions.