VOL. 50 ISSUE 49 DECEMBER 10, 2013
>> QUICK REVIEW
Despite taking on a handful of seemingly minor
changes, the 2014 KTM 450 SX-F is an improved
machine over the already proven and well-liked
2013 model. Overall the '14 KTM 450 SX-F does
many things well, just like the '13 model did.
Right off the bat, the KTM gives the rider a
feeling of confidence before you even hit the
starter button. Ergos are pleasing, handlebars
have a likeable bend, and both the clutch and
front brake levers have a light pull, even the
throttle is easy to twist. The seat is pleasantly
firm and the bike feels very narrow between
your legs. The KTM just feels right when you
climb on board. Immediately, you're off to a
good start with the KTM.
The KTM's motor is outstanding. It's very
powerful yet quite easy to manage overall, especially from bottom to mid. In this area, the
KTM hits hard but not explosive, it's the area
you want to be in most of the time. Way up
top, in the high rpm range, the KTM is crazy
fast, which is good for those long and smooth
straights but really is almost too much for us
mere mortals any other time, especially when
your muscles are getting tired and worn out.
Luckily, though, when this happens, the KTM
P41
can be ridden a gear higher through the turns
to conserve energy.
The KTM shifts extremely well. There's plenty of room between the footpeg and the shifter
for your left foot, and it takes little coercion to
catch the next gear.
The KTM is a great-turning machine, too.
You can steer it through the corners or back
it in and around, both techniques can be quite
effective on the KTM.
We love the KTM's clutch and how the rear
tire hooks up out of the turns.
Suspension is good, not great. The WP fork
does a fine job soaking up the bumps but can
feel a little spikey at times. The front end also
tends to move and float around a bit.
The back end tracks straight and true but
feels a little on the stiff side.
Handling is another strong area with the
KTM. It's a stable mount that tracks straight
and is very predictable that doesn't do anything scary. And the KTM has the best brakes
in the business. Period.
Overall, we love the KTM's strong motor and
usable powerband, powerful brakes, excellent
clutch, precise shifting, light controls, comfortable ergos and, of course, electric starting.
