VOL. 55 ISSUE 38 SEPTEMBER 25, 2018 P99
as being one of the easiest to ride in
every condition.
Part of the KTM's rideability is
the result of a gentle initial throttle
response and linear powerband, but
is also aided by the KTM's traction
control function. Love it or hate it, the
system works—and it works well. The
traction control works by keeping the
front and rear wheel tracking straight,
which helps the SX-F to carry forward
momentum as it accelerates off the
corner, especially beneficial in off-
camber corners or hard-pack condi-
tions. Adjustable engine mappings
help here too, each providing distinct
power characteristics, which can be
switched while riding to tailor the SX-F
to varying conditions.
Other standout features of the 450
SX-F included its Magura hydraulic
clutch, which offers im pressive feel
while maintaining a light lever pull.
KTM also im proved the ergonomics
of the SX-F by narrowing the radiator
shrouds—a big hit among our testers.
The revisions proved beneficial by
allowing riders to better lock them-
selves into the shrouds with their
knees through corners and while
standing up. Braking com ponents are
the same as the Husky's, meaning the
SX-F is slowed down by class-leading
Brembo calipers. A nice touch to an
already-im pressive package.
As well balanced as the 450 SX-F
is, the KTM comes up short in this
year's shootout. Not by much, but
enough. A tad more refinement and
suspension upgrades—say, a coil-
spring front end—and KTM might have
what it takes to return to the top of
the podium.
com pliance through choppy sections,
while not having enough support to
keep from bottoming on big hits. This
year's fork offers enough balance to
make testers happy with showroom-
stock settings, while retaining the
same lively chassis feel as the Husky.
The SX-F holds its own in accel-
erating out of corners, much thanks
to having a more abrupt throttle
response and quicker-revving engine
than its Austrian counterpart. Power is
readily available from the bottom end,
helping the KTM lurch off the corner
with the rest of its com petitors, while
still making quick work of the mid-
range. The KTM's powerplant doesn't
produce the most power or rev out
as far as some others, but it is known
