SHOOTOUT I 2023 450cc MOTOCROSS SHOOTOUT
P90
Wet weight-239 lbs.
The KTM 450 SX-F enters the lineup considered the "race ready"
machine in the Austrian fleet. This is the current generation's
first year, with a new frame, motor, and electronics package.
The SX-F has a dual-map switch, traction control and a new
quickshift option. The engineers tweaked the shock mounting
points in the frame but kept the familiar WP air forks and quality
Brembo components. We've praised the KTM in the past for its
lightweight nature, but it gained some weight during this update
and lost its spot as the lightest in the class. At 239 pounds
topped off, it's now the second-lightest bike of the group.
Wet weight-241 lbs.
The most anticipated bike in this year's lineup is the 2023
Yamaha YZ450F. The YZ-F enters an entirely new generation
with a complete ground-up redesign. New frame, new motor,
practically new everything. The Yamaha sheds five pounds
from last year, three from the engine alone, and upped the rev
limiter for increased power in the top-end range. They've also
attempted to ditch that "wide" front-end feeling with slim new
bodywork in the rider cockpit. Familiar KYB suspension and
the easy-to-use Power Tuner App are back for 2023, but will the
new YZ-F still be a contender for the shootout win?
Wet weight-236 lbs.
One of the unchanged bikes for this year is the 2023 GasGas MC
450F. GasGas is the third brand under the KTM Group umbrella
and is marketed as a more fun and affordable option than the
Husky and KTM. Therefore, it rides on last year's technology,
while the '23 KTM and Husqvarna models receive complete
redesigns. The GasGas has a steel frame, WP air forks, and
Brembo brakes and clutch systems. The silver wheels, cast triple
clamps, and no map switch add to its more straightforward
nature. It is the most affordable of the three Austrian bikes and
is the lightest of the group when measured fully fueled.
KTM 450 SX-F
GASGAS MC 450F
$10,199
YAMAHA YZ450F
$9899
$10,899
THE CAST
