You'd be forgiven for thinking the KTM 450 SMR couldn't possibly get any better. But we'll let that slide - just as you'll be doing when you throw a leg over this latest iteration of pure Super moto perfection. With a frame that is specifically engineered for longitudinal rigidity, stability, and exceptional rider feedback and an engine that blows away the competition with unrelenting power delivery - not to mention the electronic wizardry to rival sports bikes - The KTM 450 SMR is a purpose-built racer with one simple goal - winning championships.

Engine

The 2024 KTM 450 SMR boasts one of the most manic 4-stroke powerplants in the pits, with its SOHC engine proving to be the perfect example of advanced engineering. The engine is positioned to lower the front sprocket, which together with the benefits of mass centralization and light engine weight, delivers anti-squat behavior of the chassis that is second to none. With massive peak power output and an overall engine weight of only (26.8 kg), you’ll leave the competition with more than a little mud on the face.

Cylinder head

A compact and lightweight SOHC cylinder head package uses a short profile with the camshaft located close to the center of gravity, improving handling. Lightweight valves are actuated via a DLC-coated rocker arm with optimized timing, specifically designed to deliver precise levels of torque and throttle response. The diameter of the inlet valves is 40 mm, while on the exhaust it is 33 mm. Optimized intake ports allow higher flow coefficients, resulting in a more efficient and powerful engine, with a clever valve cover reducing the number of mounting screws, and a single oil spray jet guaranteeing efficient cooling while keeping the weight low.

Transmission

The lightweight 5-speed transmission is produced by Pankl Racing Systems ensuring the highest level of durability and reliability. The design focuses on a weight-optimized shift shaft, reducing the operating force of gear changes, best suited to the transmission ratio (29:72). The gear shift lever also features an anti-dirt build-up design that keeps the lever tip in its original position - even in the toughest conditions.

Engine management system

Developed by Keihin, the EMS is specifically designed to be small, light, and lightning-fast at processing data. It integrates the launch control for perfect starts, selectable engine maps via the map select switch on the handlebar, traction control as well as the quickshifter function. It is also combined with the gear position sensor, which optimizes power delivery for each gear, while a roll-over sensor (ROS) kills the engine in case of extreme crashes, adding another level of security to the KTM 450 SMR.

Specification:

ENGINE

• TRANSMISSION - 5-speed
• COOLING - Liquid cooled
• STARTER - Electric starter
• STROKE - 63.4 mm
• BORE - 95 mm
• CLUTCH - Suter slipper clutch, Brembo Hydraulics
• DISPLACEMENT - 449.9 cm³
• EMS - Keihin EMS
• DESIGN - 1-cylinder, 4-stroke engine
• LUBRICATION - Forced oil lubrication with 2 oil pumps

CHASSIS

• FRONT BRAKE DISC DIAMETER - 310 mm
• REAR BRAKE DISC DIAMETER - 220 mm
• CHAIN - 520, Non-sealed
• FRAME DESIGN - Central double-cradle-type 25CrMo4 steel
• FRONT SUSPENSION - WP XACT-USD, Ø 48 mm
• REAR SUSPENSION - WP XACT Monoshock with linkage
• STEERING HEAD ANGLE - 63.9 °