Motorcycle specifications KTM450 SX-F 2025 Hitting hard in Supercross

Having won 5 AMA 450 supercross titles in the last 7 seasons, the KTM 450 SX-F 2025 has a wealth of experience behind it, except that it now boasts some new trump cards.

Power immediately available

The KTM 450 SX-F 2025 offers one of the most explosive 4-stroke engines in the paddock. This simple overhead camshaft is a little jewel of technology. It delivers a maximum power output of over 63 hp and a total engine weight of just 26.8 kg. The new muffler offers improved response in combination with the map selector, and provides a slightly more discreet exhaust.

Start control and shifter

The KTM SX-F 2025 range comes as standard with Start Control and a new shifter for upshifting without touching the clutch. Start control limits power to the rear wheel, improving traction and preventing loss of control during hard acceleration. To engage it, simply press the traction control and shifter buttons simultaneously. The shifter allows you to shift from 2nd to 5th gear at lightning speed, so you can take the lead into the first bend.

Selectable mappings and traction control

The map selector on KTM SX 2025 models has been simplified to make it easier to switch between two engine maps. Mode 1 ensures a more linear deployment of power, while mode 2 provides greater explosiveness. Pressing the same switch activates traction control to enhance traction and make the difference on wet or muddy terrain.

Performance

The engine of the KTM 450 SX-F 2025 has been tilted backwards by 2°. Improved mass centralization and lighter overall weight have a beneficial effect on handling and anti-squat chassis behavior. Combined with the map selector, the muffler improves responsiveness and slightly reduces exhaust noise.

Total control

The frame of the KTM SX and SX-F 2025 models benefits from major updates directly inspired by the Factory Racing team. For a start, the frame area around the rear shock mount has been updated and streamlined with new engine mounts and cut-outs for greater chassis flexibility. The front frame area has also been revised, with a different wall thickness to that of the previous model year and renewed motor mounts. The result is 300g less weight and greater cornering flexibility.

Ergonomics

Improved fuel tank fairings using bi-component plastics channel air to the radiators more efficiently, while the new fuel tank sleeve provides a tighter, more secure fit, limiting the risk of frame rubbing and significantly improving durability. All this links up with the specially designed rider triangle to ensure unrivalled grip and knee contact surfaces, particularly when standing on the footrests.

Simplified suspension adjustment

As always, the suspension is easy to adjust without tools at both ends, allowing you to aim for the podium with complete control. At the rear, a hand-adjustable dual-compression control (DCC) makes it possible to adjust high- and low-speed behavior in a matter of seconds. At the front, the fork can also be easily adjusted by hand, thanks to notches at the bottom of the fork leg and on the top cover.

New suspension settings

For 2025, the KTM SX and SX-F range has updated the WP XACT AER fork and WP XACT shock absorber. To take the start with readjusted settings, reduced weight, improved load distribution and increased overall response.

WP XACT shock absorber

The WP XACT shock absorber, which keeps things under control at the rear, has also undergone some modifications for the 2025 version, taking its inspiration directly from the KTM Factory Racing teams. Thanks to the improved frame and shock geometry, there's more ground clearance on the pushrod system, so it doesn't drop too much. Moreover, the smaller diameter of the bolts means they are lighter, while the new joints improve shock absorber response and advanced suspension settings.

Stability

An improved rear brake pedal also integrates the KTM motocross 2025 range, giving the assembly even greater rigidity, greater resistance to bending and improved braking feel. At the other end, a forged steering column connection and CNC-machined fork T allow perfect alignment of the fork tubes. This precise geometry of the fork crowns guarantees highly responsive and fluid action, not to mention incomparable stability when rutting your way to the podium.

Mass centralization

Improved mass centralization and overall weight reduction, as well as modifications to the steel frame structure, have had a beneficial effect on the chassis' anti-squat behavior. In other words, the KTM 450 SX-F 2025 transfers maximum power to the ground on corner exits.

Energy absorption

In addition to its hydroformed frame, laser-cut and assembled by automated welding, perfectly designed to offer the rider exceptional response and stability in a straight line, the longitudinal and torsional flexibility parameters have been specially calculated. The frame thus acts as a shock absorber, for less violent riding and less fatigue with each lap.

Ground clearance

The shock absorber geometry on the KTM 450 SX-F 2025 has been completely redesigned to increase the ground clearance of the pushrod system. The topology of the die-cast footpegs reduces the risk of snagging when negotiating deep ruts and the risk of taking off when scrubbing.

Tires

The KTM motocross 2025 range has finally opted for Dunlop GEOMAX MX35 tires. Offering unrivalled stability and control at the highest level, these tires feature a new carcass and a new rubber compound that improves damping and absorption, extending performance by 30%. New progressive cornering block technology also enhances grip on berms, while the new rear pattern with an 11% higher and 44% wider center block ensures greater traction and control in all conditions. Last but not least, this unique block arrangement dissipates mud build-up, ensuring traction even in very muddy conditions.

Air filter housing

Thanks to its cleverly positioned intake ducts, the air filter housing reduces distortion, enhances filter protection and ensures optimum air flow. Thanks to the foolproof Twin Air filter and air filter holder mounting system, installation of this component is a breeze. The air filter is easily accessible, without tools, by removing the left side panel. All SX and SX-F models are also supplied with an air filter housing hatch.

Easy maintenance

The KTM SX and SX-F 2025 range is designed to guarantee convenient access to spare parts and easy suspension adjustment. This makes off-season or race maintenance even quicker. They will also be more accessible to amateurs, as they no longer need mechanics at their service.

More consistent handling

The new chain guide and chain guard improve durability and limit the risk of catching on external objects, especially in extremely muddy conditions, while reducing dirt build-up around the swingarm and sprocket.

Connectivity Unit Offroad

Available as a KTM PowerPart on the KTM SX-F range, the Connectivity Unit Offroad (or CUO) offers a wide range of features and setting options via the KTMconnect app. The CUO gives a new insight into riding, allows engine behavior to be modified and even offers optimized suspension settings according to individual preferences and riding conditions.

Information and image credits: KTM