Motorcycle specifications KTM450 EXC-F 2020 The conquest

KTM has spared no effort to make a proven machine the new terror of the racetrack. KTM's factory riders have been involved in the development of the 2020 version of the 450 EXC-F. Optimization of performance, modification of the frame and rear loop, extreme care taken with the fairing and ergonomics, development of an innovative exhaust system, improved cooling system and suspension: the supremacy of the 450 EXC-F owes nothing to chance. New graphics and colors confirm its champion pedigree.

engine and silencer

kTM's new range of 4-stroke engines is further proof of the brand's passion for enduro riding. Capable of propelling you to the front from the very first seconds of use, these powerful engines proudly claim their KTM racing pedigree. Among the lightest, most compact and most competitive on the market, they are destined to become the new benchmark in enduro riding, in terms of performance, reliability and ease of use. Whether you're an amateur or a seasoned professional, you'll have everything you need to win, whatever category you're competing in.

cylinder head

a key component of the SOHC (single overhead camshaft) engine, the new cylinder head of the KTM 450 EXC-F is much more compact. It has been lightened by 500 grams and lowered by 15 mm to improve mass centralization and handling. A new overhead camshaft controls intake and exhaust via optimized ports. The latter is positioned closer to the center of gravity to enhance the bike's agility. In addition to improved axial mounting of the decompressor, this new component benefits from a more efficient integrated breather. The four new valves are shorter and adapted to the new cylinder head design. However, the valve train of the previous model has been retained. The rocker arms have also been optimized. In particular, they are more rigid to guarantee a constant level of performance throughout the rev range. To limit engine weight and friction, engineers have opted for a shorter timing chain and new low-friction chain guides. The new configuration promises even more efficient power delivery and an unrivalled level of performance.

crankshaft

the 450 EXC-F's crankshaft is ideally positioned, close to the center of gravity, to enhance maneuverability. It uses a shortened connecting rod. More compact and lighter, the engine gains in responsiveness. The crankshaft is fitted with a connecting-rod bearing and two bearing shells press-fitted directly into the crankpin. This bearing is supplied with oil by the engine's pressure lubrication system. This type of design, combined with the connecting-rod bearing, contributes to longer crankshaft service intervals.

crankcases and covers

the crankcases of EXC models have been redesigned to reduce weight by 300 grams. The new design has also enabled the shaft configurations to be placed in a central position, creating a very short and compact engine, while promoting mass centralization. Another interesting innovation to keep the engine as radiant as in the early days: crankcase covers with an elaborate surface structure, designed to reduce wear caused by the rider's boots. The reinforced clutch housing makes the engine more resistant to impacts on rocky terrain.

gearbox

the 450 EXC-F uses a new 6-speed gearbox designed by PANKL RACING SYSTEMS. The gearbox is made from a stronger forged material, ensuring superior durability and reliability. On the other hand, it was not deemed necessary to change the gear ratios, which are perfectly matched to the power delivered. All 4-stroke engines are equipped with a ratio sensor that allows the engine characteristics to be adapted to each gear.

engine management

the highly sophisticated Keihin engine management system with electronic fuel injection features a new 42 mm throttle body. For added convenience, independent adjustment mechanisms have been provided for cold start and idle. The MAP sensor (absolute pressure sensor) has been sealed more tightly, making the system even more reliable. Modifications to the throttle cable have simplified cable routing and made them more accessible. The ECU on 2020 models manages new engine modes adapted to the new exhaust, air filter box and engine configuration. The ECU allows for more precise traction control, which can be activated using the optional map selector. To deliver maximum power, it adapts the engine's characteristics at each speed, according to the data communicated by the gear sensor.

cylinder and piston

the shortened, 95 mm-bore cylinder houses a new, ultra-light "box-in-box" piston made by König. Coupled with a 10% lighter piston pin, it makes a major contribution to reducing vibrations and increasing engine performance and speed. This combination has made it possible to increase the compression ratio from 11.7:1 to 12.75:1, for even greater power. The upper part of the piston has also been optimized for more efficient combustion.

balancer shaft

the side-mounted balancer shaft performs a dual function, perfectly compensating for oscillating masses and simultaneously driving the water pump. Free from annoying vibrations, the bike offers unrivalled riding smoothness, even at high revs.

clutch

the 450 EXC-F features a heavy-duty DDS (Damped Diaphragm Steel) clutch developed by KTM. This features a wear-free steel clutch housing and heat-resistant clutch plates. The use of a diaphragm spring instead of the usual coil springs makes it even more flexible. The diaphragm spring also has the advantage of being compact, enabling a damping system to be integrated into the clutch hub, for improved driveability and durability. The Brembo hydraulic clutch system is also distinguished by its precision and progressiveness.

electric starter

the electric starter, available as standard on the 450 EXC-F, uses a proven drive system and Mitsuba's robust electric motor. This system has proven its worth time and again: its rock-solid reliability saves precious time and effort at crucial moments.

cooling

to ensure smooth power delivery, it's essential to maintain optimum engine temperature. To this end, the 450 EXC-F is equipped with new radiators that are 12 mm lower than those of its predecessor. This position, more in keeping with the design of the new spoilers, lowers the center of gravity and enhances ergonomics. Thanks to CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) and a judicious cooling circuit, this innovative system ensures that engine components are kept at the ideal temperature to guarantee the highest level of performance, whatever the conditions. To ensure more efficient circulation of coolant between the cylinder head and radiators, the diameter of the central tube of the exhaust duct (integrated into the frame triangulation) has been increased by 4 mm, representing a 57% increase in flow cross-section. For even greater efficiency, a cooling fan has been fitted as standard. Special radiator guards not only protect the radiators from stones and other debris, but also distribute the force of impact around them.

muffler

the new exhaust system gives the engine a smoothness and liveliness that are hard to match. EXC models powered by a 4-stroke engine all feature a new two-piece exhaust manifold (instead of the previous one-piece design). This is easier to disassemble and provides easier access to the shock absorber. The aluminum muffler sleeve has a new design with a wider profile. The silencer end cap has also changed. Compared to its predecessor, it has the advantage of being shorter and more compact. This has enabled the engineers to move it closer to the center of gravity to improve mass centralization.

chassis

year after year, KTM engineers strive to make their bikes lighter. The result is clear: the EXC-F 2020 models are among the lightest and slimmest enduro bikes on the market, and also among the fastest in corners. And with an electric starter available as standard, the powerful single-cylinder is brought to life at the touch of a button.

frame

all EXC models feature a new high-tech lightweight chromoly steel frame, made of hydroformed tubes assembled by automated welding. Engineers retained the competition-proven geometry, but reworked certain parts of the frame to increase longitudinal, lateral and torsional rigidity. The ultimate aim was to improve rider feedback, agility and stability. The lugs connecting the cylinder head to the frame are now made of aluminum. Mounted laterally, they help limit vibration levels and refine the bike's trajectory in corners. The new side frame protectors feature a structured surface for improved grip. They also protect the rider from the heat generated by the muffler on the right-hand side. The rear loop is made of ultra-light, stable aluminum sections, longer (40 mm more) and lighter (900 g less) than before, designed to reinforce the stability of the rear shell.

swingarm

the KTM 450 EXC-F's high-pressure-molded, one-piece swingarm has been designed for maximum strength, while keeping weight to an absolute minimum. The monoblock molding process not only optimizes bending behavior and weight, but also allows for a wide range of geometries.

wheels

featuring ultra-light CNC-machined hubs and top-of-the-range GIANT rims, the wheels on all Enduro models guarantee maximum stability despite limited weight. The aluminum spoke nipples on 2020 models have been redesigned to reduce the frequency with which spokes need to be re-tensioned.

front suspension

all EXC models inherit the latest WP XPLOR USD fork with separate damping circuits (48 mm in diameter), designed by WP and KTM. Although both fork arms are equipped with springs, their functions differ. The left arm handles compression damping, while the right arm handles rebound. To fine-tune each of these settings, simply turn the 30-notch knob above each fork tube. Although this fork is already renowned for its sensitivity and efficiency, it features a perfectly calibrated floating piston for even more even damping on the 2020 model. New fork top caps and new, more intuitive adjustment knobs, with new colors and graphics, are also featured. The rider also benefits from new settings to raise the front axle for greater resistance to bottoming.

rear suspension

an essential component of the proven PDS rear suspension, the WP XPLOR shock absorber is connected directly to the swingarm, without the need for an additional linkage system. In addition to saving weight, this solution reduces the risk of snagging on large stones. To ensure optimum progressiveness of the enduro-specific damping, a second piston is combined with a cup-shaped end-stop and supported by a progressive-action spring. To increase resistance to bottoming without sacrificing comfort on the 2020 model, the second piston has been redesigned, and the sealing and shape of the end stop have been optimized. New XPLOR PDS shock absorber settings, specific to the new frame and front-end configuration, improve damping characteristics. Fully adjustable, including high-speed and low-speed compression, this shock absorber can be adapted to suit track conditions or rider preferences.

brakes

these Brembo brakes, little jewels of technology, are combined with Wave brake discs renowned for their lightness. Rarely has an off-road motorcycle offered such an efficient braking feel.

fuel tank

all EXC models feature a new, ultra-light, ergonomic polyethylene fuel tank. The quarter-turn bayonet cap eliminates time-consuming resealing of the tank. And since the tank is made of transparent plastic, you can see how much fuel is left at a glance. This model features an integrated fuel pump system and fuel level indicator. The 90-degree fuel line connection further protects the tank from damage.

air filter housing

the air filter housing of the 450 EXC-F has been completely redesigned to optimize flow dynamics and ensure exceptional power delivery and acceleration. In addition to the obvious gain in performance, the new design also serves to better protect the air filter from clogging. The rigid support for the large Twin-Air filter has been designed to minimize installation errors. As on previous models, the filter can be serviced in record time and without tools, a typically KTM feature.

ergonomics and comfort

kTM has drawn on its long experience and decades of racing success to perfect the ergonomics of the 450 EXC-F and create the perfect osmosis between man and machine. This gives the rider total freedom of movement and optimum comfort, whatever the conditions.

handlebars

all EXC models feature the same ultra-strong, profiled aluminum handlebars made by NEKEN. These can be adjusted to four different positions. right: an ODI vulcanized handlebar grip available as standard; left: an ODI lock-on handlebar grip that's as comfortable as it is practical, thanks to its glue- and wire-free mounting system. All models can be fitted with an optional handlebar-mounted map selector, allowing selection of different power curves. The rider can also activate traction control by simply pressing this selector (optional) to improve traction, especially on slippery tracks.

footrests

sophisticated "zero-dirt" footrests prevent the gear selector from fouling, even when passing through deep ruts. To enhance ground clearance, the gear selector on Enduro models is 6 mm higher than on SX models.

styling and graphics

the fairing of the 450 EXC-F marks a new stage in the evolution of motorcycles, and is the result of a joint effort by KTM factory riders, KTM R&D specialists and the design agency Kiska GmbH. The shape of the fairing on Enduro bikes allows the rider to feel at one with the machine. Work has focused on the contact points to ensure total freedom of movement for the rider and enhanced maneuverability. The special shape of the front and rear shells ensures maximum stability and minimum weight. The rear light has been redesigned to match the new shape of the rear shell and front cross-plate bracket. The new overmolded graphics confirm the bike's sporting intent and the ambitions of the KTM brand.

software and electronics

the highly sophisticated Keihin engine management system, with electronic fuel injection, features a new fuel injection body.features a new 42 mm fuel injection body offering spontaneous response and maximum performance thanks to an exclusive injector position. The control unit (ECU) manages new engine modes adapted to the new exhaust, air filter box and engine configuration. The ECU also enables traction control to be fine-tuned, using the optional map selector. The various engine modes on offer ensure optimum power delivery based on data provided by the gear sensor.

battery and wiring harness

all engines are equipped with the tried-and-tested electric starter, a major asset when off-road. To start the engine every time, the starter is powered by an ultra-lightweight 2 Ah lithium-ion battery. The wiring harness has been optimized. Most of the electrical components are grouped under the seat, for easier access and greater reliability.

News and media credits: KTM