Ktm 450 reviews

This bike has to be my third KTM and like my past I purchased used and completely rebuilt it. But from the begining it was a strong running machine. It definitely does not like to go slow, likes to overheat without the assistance of a fan. But this bike is very forgiving at the same time for the novice rider. The only thing really missing from mine that I really need is a stabilizer. Other than some odds and ends, this bike just screams to be be ridden hard, and it lets you dominate. I will recommend some upgrades on the suspension to fit your body. I put in a progression spring which loves the desert riding in Nevada. In the air or in the sand this bike has it all, except the cops don't like it much on the street. So I bought an EXC, too. I'm in the middle of rebuilding that one, too. Show less

This is my first KTM and I'm hooked. Previously I was a Honda guy, and I still like Honda's, however my XC-F blows them away. My first impression of the bike was wow. Loads of power let you handle any obstacle with ease. It comes on strong in the midrange, yet the power is refined to allow for easy throttle roll-on. The thing is plenty fast, handles well, although some compression settings will need to be adjusted after it is broken in. If the power is still too abrupt for some, KTM made a handy "switch" which changes the ignition curve, making the curve more like a 250 but with the power of a 450 (great for conditions with low traction). On the MX track it performs just as well as the other bikes, even with the 18" rear tire. In the desert/woods it outshines all the other bikes. Big long whoop sections are where it truly shines, grab another gear and it only gets easier. Being an XC-F model means 5-speeds (which is a gotta have) and a larger gas tank, with reserve (yay!). This means that the XC-F feels a little bulky around the knees (I'm short so it's around my knees). Nonetheless, it is still very comfortable to ride. The seat has great cushion, and allows for easy movement forward on the tank. Quality is, bar none, the best in the biz. I don't know why there is so much hype about linkage because this bike tracks very well and I have no complaints thus far. Overall this is the best bike I have owned, and anyone looking for a fantastic all-around bike should buy one of these! Lets not forget, electric start!!! Yeeawwww! Show less

I bought a 2007 450 SXF but went back to the 2006. The electric start is great on the 2007 but has no back-up kicker. The 2006 seems to pull harder than the 2007. It's great all the way around. Show less

This is scary fast. My buddy has the 530 and this feels like it has more power and speed when you are on it. The 530 has more grunt so you can run a bit taller gear, but that hardly matters because the motor revs forever. Be careful with the brakes, you only need one finger to stop. Use more and you may go over the front end. I ride with my kids and friends and it handles all speeds well. In hot weather, I would spit a bit of fluid, but I changed to Engine Ice coolant and it is noticably cooler without any spitting, even in the tight steep stuff in 100 degree heat. It's a very nice bike. Show less

This is a update to my first review. I would rate it higher but I only have five stars to work with. After putting 30 hours on it I am still very pleased with this bike. It is a blast to ride. It goes well if you short shift it and if you rev it out, hold on becouse it moves. The chassis handles the Maine trails very well with all the roots and rocks. The only thig about the bike I don't like is that in stock form the crank vent will suck water into the engine. It is an easy fix - you just need to run the vent up the frame. In my case I made a vent cap and now the crank vent's under the fuel tank next to the coil. No more water. You do need to drain the vent after a few rides becouse condensation will build up in the tube. KTM is all I will own now! Show less

I switched from a 2 stroke motocross to the 450 EXC with no regrets! It is and feels heavier than my 2 stroke but more than makes up for it in rideability. It did take some getting used to the added weight. The engine has a wide usuable power curve that chugs right along when you should have normally down-shifted. The hydraulic clutch and magic button(electric start) round out this awesome machine. My personal advice, buy the bike for the type of riding you do. don't buy this bike for motocross or a motocross for woods riding. Been there and done that. This bike is heavier than a motocross and doesn't have the necessary suspension adjustments for the giant jumps. This bike is a rock-star on close or open trail riding with moderate jumps. Plenty of power and with the 6 speed trans allows for much easier low speed technical trails and hill climbing. Show less

This bike is amazing. It's not the kind of bike that has a monstrous hit like a motocross 450, but has just the right power for the open and tight woods. I just got done riding with this bike. It has 120 miles on it and I hit 85 mph. The suspension on this is pretty good. Set the sag and dial in the clickers and it's even better. Depending on your weight you may need different springs or even a revalve. For stock it's the best woods 450 money can buy. Go KTM. Show less

I've had the 06 KTM 450 EXC the last two seasons. It is my first bike and I just love it out here in the mountains. I've added an 11.5L fuel tank, a small rack and a few other KTM add-ons. This is a tall bike. If I was any shorter it would be really scary. The bike will do over 100 mph in stock form down the highway. The bike is jetted lean in stock form. Now that I'm used to the power, I want more. It's definitely not necessary, but I'm getting the JD jet kit, a FMF 4.1 exhaust system and an 11.9 compression piston. I've also tried running C14 114 octane VP racing fuel with different mix ratios. That fuel makes the bike really come alive and feel light. Show less

Had the bike now for about 2 weeks...LOVE IT. Cops HATE IT. Have always ridden big bores. (KX500, CR500R, latest CRF450R) The KTM comes ready to run out of the box. KTM pays excellent attention to detail. Excel rims, fat bars, tires, chain, suspension, down to the grips. My ONLY complaint is changing the oil is a drag...what a mess, that being said the filtration is great. The power is smooth all the way through 6th. Availability says it all...try and find one. Enjoy the ride! Show less

WoW, Great bike! Been riding now for 16 + yrs & I have to say out of all the other bikes, Japan made, I've owned or rode, this one is the BEST. Just do the math & your homework & you'll see... Gobs of power, perfect balance & control. As for the seat being too hard, who sits down! A must have for the serious rider!! Show less