KTM 450 series
type of motorcycle
The KTM 450 series is a range 4-stroke enduro off-road motorcycles made by KTM. The models are the European road legal 400 EXC and 450 EXC, the US 450 (Close Ratio) XC and 450 (Wide Ratio) XC-W. The European EXC versions have a small headlight, speedometer, tail-light and somewhat softer linkless (PDS) rear suspension. The US EXC is 50-states street legal.
Model progression
2000 - 2002
The factory RFS (Racing Four Stroke) KTM 400 EXC won the 1999 World Enduro Championship. The 2000 RFS KTM 400 EXC had a right side kickstarter but also had the E-start button. KTM took a different approach to the configuration of the motor than most other manufacturers. While others used a 90mm-plus bore piston with a very short stroke of 60mm, the KTM RFS motor used an 89mm x 64mm boiconfiguration which provided more torque at the expense of higher RPM's.
2003
This was the first year of the 450 EXC model. It evolved from the earlier 400 EXC model, with an increased displacement via a longer stroke.
The new 2003 model saw changes with an updated rear sub frame, airbox, rear fender and side panels changed to one piece, changes to fuel tank, seat & carb boot, the front manifold changing from a twin pipe to single.
2005-2007
These years saw a new frame.
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