Going Bush
After only a few laps, we were surprised to see how much 450 EXC-F had really improved. Not to say we dislike the ‘old’ one, because to this day it’s a really nice bike. But it kind of lacked some personality, it did everything well but nothing was outstanding. The 2017 model is a very different story, the weight savings and new suspension really transform the KTM and make it much more enjoyable to ride. From a rider’s perspective the new suspension offers so much more feel and traction through the front end of the bike. It means you can attack corners with more confidence, and know exactly how the front end will react. The overall action of the suspension is on the softer side, but we found the compression clickers to be very effective, where after a few changes in the stiff direction, we felt that the standard setup was very much race ready. The PDS shock does a great job of keeping the KTM in line and offers comfort without sacrificing any performance. Coming out of ruts, or exiting bumpy turns the KTM showed exceptional control, as well as on log hits or rock ledges where the EXC remained stable and predictable.
The weight savings and new body styling sound like gimmicks, but again, are way more effective than we anticipated. The EXCs have been known to have a heavier enduro feel, but the 2017 changes really bridge the gap from motocross to off-road. The narrow shrouds and fuel tank offer a feel much like the KTM SX range, and the weight savings translate to improved handling on the track. When tipping in and out of turns and navigating the tight single trail, the 450 offers an easier ride, which is less taxing on the body and requires less input from the rider. Not to mention that the new styling looks awesome!
The Neken handlebars are a comfortable bend, and the handlebar area is well laid out without any cluttering, but for the taller, more lanky folks out there, it may be a good idea to invest in a higher bend and perhaps adjust the handlebar position on top of the triple clamps to open up the cockpit a bit more. For longer days on the trail, it’s a very race-oriented set-up which may not prove to be super comfy on any weekend-long adventures.
Despite the engine changes the 450 EXC-F maintains the very well mannered approach which has seen it become so successful. It’s quite possibly the easiest bike to ride in the 450cc category. For the average trailblazer the engine offers power when you need it. It doesn’t hit hard or have a bunch of top-end speed, instead it’s quite balanced and linear in its delivery. If you’re talented enough to throw some aggression into the mix – the big KTM will quickly wind up and put a smile on your face. A flick of the clutch and a fist full of throttle injects more life into the EXC than most of us mortals can handle.
After speaking with a few new 450 EXC owners, a few have mentioned making gearing changes. The specialised six-speed gearbox worked great on our tight special test loop, but on more cross-country style terrain we tended to agree. Dropping a tooth or two off the rear sprocket lets the KTM rev out a bit more, allowing the rider to be more aggressive in the lower gears without the power becoming too much. Owners also mentioned, the aftermarket Exhaust offered in the KTM Powerparts catalogue gave a more responsive and fun feel to the KTM engine.
Overall
The KTM 450 EXC-F comes into 2017 with hype we mistakenly never bought into. It’s a very impressive bike, and with minimal personal adjustments could easily be the best 450cc enduro bike on the market.
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