Appropriately priced at $10,995, the all-new machine bristles with premium accessories and Ricky Carmichael–approved design, hence the “RC” branding. Read on to learn more about the 2025 Triumph TF 450-RC Edition, what accessories differentiate it from the TF 250-X, and why it’s one of most anticipated new 450cc motocross models debuted in quite some time.
The 2025 Triumph TF 450-RC Edition. More than just an all-new model, the TF 450-RC Edition is Triumph’s debut into the 450cc motocross bike market.Triumph
At its core, the TF 450-RC Edition features a fuel-injected liquid-cooled SOHC four-stroke single-cylinder engine design with a 450cc final displacement. A 95.0 x 63.4mm bore and stroke with 13.1:1 compression ratio produce power that’s extremely competitive. Magnesium is the material of choice for both the cylinder head and ignition covers. And yes, we removed the warning label before spinning laps as the frame spar is an interesting location…Triumph
Class-leading components like a König forged aluminum piston and Del West titanium valves lurk inside. A stainless steel exhaust system features an integrated resonator.Triumph
The TF 450-RC Edition comes standard with a billet Hinson Racing clutch cover with team insignia. Like the TF 250-X, this model also has an externally visible oil window, tucked neatly out of harm’s way behind the rear brake pedal.Triumph
The head pipe attaches directly to the engine hanger, hangers which differ from the TF 250-X in that these are solid with no cutouts/reliefs. Unlike the 250F chassis which appreciated a little flex, RC and fellow Triumph test riders prefer this style on the 450.Triumph
Repackable by design, the muffler is short and compact by 450cc standards. For a bike with an engine that is so healthy, the tone is quite pleasant.Triumph
A vented airbox cover increases airflow. Removable without tools, Triumph simplified the maintenance process.Triumph
With production codes through 2031, expect to see Triumph utilize this airbox cover on multiple models.Triumph
Twin Air supplies the air filter for both the TF 250-X and TF 450-RC Edition. Interchangeability is a common tactic OEMs use to keep costs down and increase convenience for consumers.Triumph
Harnessing the power of modern 450s can be daunting, which is why Triumph includes class-leading engine management tools. Features like launch control (LC), quickshift (QS), traction control (TC), and optional maps (M) are selectable on this handlebar-mounted all-in-one module.Triumph
Engine start and stop buttons can be found on the throttle side, with an oversize red stop switch. Good for both consumers with color impairments and also those in a rush, the increased size and location ensure it’s the first button one instinctively engages.Triumph
Kayaba (KYB) suspension components grace the TF 450-RC Edition. Dimensionally similar to those found on the TF 250-X, the TF 450-RC Edition features stiffer spring rates, evolved settings, and proprietary Neken triple clamps which increase front end precision. An included Wi-Fi Module Kit (part No. A9820130) hidden behind the front number plate allows for communication with Triumph’s MX Tune Pro smartphone app.Triumph
Fork height of 5mm is standard, and fork compression damping adjuster is in the middle of the cap with cartridge bleed screw located at the front. 5.0 Nm springs are housed inside. From this angle, one can also see the intricacy of the triple clamp (yoke) design.Triumph
KYB also handles shock duties. The light-brown 17mm nut is the high-speed compression damping adjuster, while the silver screw housed inside is the low-speed compression damping adjuster.Triumph
TF 450-RC Edition swingarm and linkage. Note the contour at the front of the swingarm; Triumph incorporated curves and varying tapers into its thoughtful design. Shock rebound damping adjuster can be found here, on the clevis, and is accessible when the bike is both on and off the stand…Triumph
A gray/silver 58 Nm shock spring is offset by the white airbox and black mudflap.Triumph
The hand welds on the aluminum frame are immaculate. A central-backbone frame gave the Triumph testing team exactly the feel they were searching for.Triumph
Triumph knows it’s all in the details, as evidenced by this cast logo on the swingarm. From this angle, one can see just how far forward the rear wheel lies in relation to the mud guard. The 13/49 gearing on our TF 450-RC Edition differed from the 13/48 combo listed on Triumph’s original spec sheet and current PR literature.Triumph
Yes, the TF 450-RC Edition has just as many Torx bolts as the TF 250-X. However, the cutout engine hangers (head stays) of the TF 250-X are tossed for handling-specific solid mounts found on the TF 450-RC Edition. Behind the hanger lies a Dell’Orto 44mm throttle body.Triumph
Polished rear hub, double-butted spokes, and a Galfer rear brake rotor scream quality.Triumph
Brembo supplies the braking components, front and rear. A 220mm rear disc and steel-braided line ensure the TF 450-RC Edition can get stopped in a hurry.Triumph
A D.I.D DirtStar rear rim (19 x 2.15) and Dunlop Geomax MX34 rear tire (110/90-19) come standard. The TF 450-RC Edition gets touches of Ricky Carmichael’s longtime sponsors and a graphics package all its own: The swingarm, fork guards, rear fender, and radiator shrouds all have RC4-inspired motifs.Triumph
This happens to be a stock photo from Triumph, which was not updated with 13/49 gearing found on our initial test day. Regardless, JT Sprockets are found on both of the British manufacturer’s dirt bikes. And yes, Torx bolts affix the rear sprocket bolts as well as the chain guide.Triumph
Upfront, a black brake disc guard comes standard on the TF 450-RC Edition. It ensures the Galfer 260mm rotor remains true and identifies the RC package as race-ready, straight off the showroom floor. P.S. Brembo braking components and steel-braided lines go together like peanut butter and jelly.Triumph
Another race-ready item is the Xtrig-manufactured holeshot device. Also available from the accessories division for TF 250-X owners, it works splendidly. Set in a rather conservative depth, it’s certainly better than nothing when starting off dirt and grates in competition. Picky users can always relocate the catch ring on the fork tube vertically to fine-tune lock-in depth.Triumph
The ribbed seat, found only on the TF 450-RC Edition and in the Triumph accessories catalog, not only secures racers when launching out of the gate, but also through rutted corners. One of the most durable seat covers ridden to date, the seat profile is also quite welcoming, ergonomically.Triumph
Speaking of ergonomics, the radiator shroud and gas tank profile are seamless on the TF 450-RC Edition. At 1.85 gallons (7 liters), the tank capacity is near the top among competitors in the 450cc motocross bike class. RC-specific logos are also found on the lower shroud tip.Triumph
Smooth and sleek, the TF 450-RC Edition side panels and graphics combination are eye-catching.Triumph
Rear profile shot. From this angle, the ODI Podium Flight MX RC4 Signature handlebar stands out front and center. ODI clamp-on grips complete the package.Triumph
Steel-braided hydraulic lines, reusable plastic control straps, signature bar pad, and RC4 finishes throughout: What more can you ask for?Triumph
Not much, according to Ricky Carmichael himself! RC is extremely pleased with the final product and can’t wait for consumers to get their hands on them. Available in early 2025, be on the lookout for continuing Triumph coverage of the TF 450-RC Edition in the near future.Triumph
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