P84
R I D E R E V I E W
2020 K TM 450 SX-F
Every pro-level rider we speak
with agrees that more, more, more
power is better. And we all know
guys and gals that think they need
a bike to accelerate faster. Right or
wrong on a lap-time basis, this is
what a chunk of the market de-
mands. And, KTM is listening.
From our first rides aboard the
2020 KTM 450 SX-F, we think the
changes to Map 2 are pretty signifi-
cant, but even for a vet-class rider
who prefers smooth power, the
punch isn't over-the-top, even with
the more aggressive 49-tooth rear
sprocket on-board.
I went into the test a little cau-
tious. I don't want to be the
40-something looping out test bikes
because they're too much for me,
after all. But my
hesitation wasn't
warranted. For
"normal" riders,
Map 1 is adequate,
and Map 2 gives
you a healthier
rate of accelera-
tion from the motor
that requires more
skill and attention.
It could be consid-
ered a pro map, but pros will likely
want more—as they do.
Traction being perfect, Map 2
does give you a bit more bolt out
of the corner, but it's not a revo-
lutionary amount of snap, and the
trip through the gears is just a
little faster than Map 1. I can eas-
(Above) KTM gives
up the option to
run vented side
panels. (Below) You
feel the difference
between the two
mapping options.
Even "aggressive"
is manageable.
