2015 KTM 450 SX-F FACTORY EDITION
FIRST RIDE
P44
KTM also found ways to make the KTM's chro-
moly steel frame, aluminum subframe and swing-
arm, and airbox lighter. Speaking of the frame, it
was also designed with 20 percent more torsional
rigidity (which affects cornering stability) and 30
percent less longitudinal stiffness (which affects
shock and bump loads) to improve handling feel.
It also got steeper steering, going from 26.5
degrees to 26.1 degrees, and a slightly shorter
wheelbase (by 10mm).
When you take your first lap on the Factory
Edition, you'll immediately notice the weight re-
duction. The FE is very agile and maneuverable,
especially when you compare it to the standard
450 SX-F. You will also notice that the FE feels
a bit smaller in the cockpit than the standard 450
SX-F, and that's a good thing since the KTM 450
SX-F has always felt large in the saddle. Both
the handlebars and seat are positioned a little
lower and the footpegs have been moved back
a bit, and when you throw in the slightly shorter
wheelbase and the steeper steering angle, you
end up with a bike that actually feels like a 250F,
because you can throw it around at will over the
jumps and through the turns, which the FE does
remarkably well. So well, in fact, that one of our
veteran test riders said that the FE rivals the Su-
zuki RM-Z450 when it comes to turning prowess.
T H E S U S P E N S I O N I S N ' T K I L L I N G U S
It goes without saying that the FE's suspension
took on some updates, as well, which it, well,
needed. The WP shock is basically all new. It
has a smaller shaft and shorter overall length and
The new
suspension
isn't perfect but
it's improved
over the
standard SX-F.
