Dirt Bikes

2023 KTM 450 XC-F Technical Information

What’s new on KTM’s flagship cross-country racer for 2023?

November 29, 2022

KTM’s 450 XC-F received a complete makeover for 2023. We dug into some of the technical information to help show most of the significant changes made to the Austrian manufacturer’s flagship off-road competition model. There’s a new engine, frame, subframe, swingarm, shock, and bodywork. Here’s a closer look at some of the parts and features.

With even sharper lines, the 2023 KTM off-road competition models are unmistakable.Jeff Allen

The Austrian manufacturer’s all-new flagship cross-country racer gained some weight. On our automotive scales, it weighs 6 pounds more than the prior-generation model.Jeff Allen

Significant updates were given to the fuel-injected liquid-cooled SOHC four-stroke 450cc powerplant including a new cylinder head and crankcases. The engine has also been tilted back 2 degrees back and is 3mm lower at the countershaft sprocket.Jeff Allen

In addition to being topology-optimized to provide optimal rigidity, the new die-cast swingarm is 190 grams (6.7 ounces) lower in weight and has a more durable chain guide.Jeff Allen

The wiring harness has been updated for reliability with a new connector support mounted to the triple clamps behind the front number plate.Jeff Allen

A new fuel pump design is intended to improve its ability to completely empty the fuel tank, allowing you to ride longer.Jeff Allen

New compact multifunction switches clean up the cockpit handlebar area. On the right side is the multifunction start/stop switch and on the left is the map select and traction control switch and a quickshift (QS) mode option.Mason Owens

The handlebar mount is now a one-piece assembly. It can be either rubber mounted for more comfort and less vibration or solid mounted for a more precise front end feel but with slightly more vibration. They sit atop CNC-machined 22mm-offset triple clamps.Jeff Allen

The WP Xact shock is 15mm shorter for 2023, and now has tool-free adjusters for low- and high-speed compression and rebound damping.Jeff Allen

The new footpegs are wider and have a more inboard mounting position to reduce the chance of mud buildup at the pivot.Jeff Allen

The upper subframe area is made of injection-molded polyamide, while the lower area has one-piece cast spars with no weld joints to increase reliability. A key feature is that the subframe can flex and return to its original position in a crash. The air filter also has a unique shape for 2023 as well.Jeff Allen

The 2.25-gallon polyethylene fuel tank maximizes the space available below the radiator shrouds to help keep the chassis narrow and the center of gravity as low as possible.Jeff Allen

The kickstand is new and looks stronger and lighter. It’s almost 100 percent concealed by the side number plate panel when folded up, so you will never have to worry about it catching on your boot while riding.Jeff Allen

Some of the items that can be reused from a 2022 model are the WP Xact 48mm air fork, front wheel, and front brake assembly. However, KTM did redesign the fork guards to offer more fork tube protection.Mason Owens

Along with a new swingarm, KTM reduced the size of the rear axle to 22mm to match the unique chassis flex characteristics. This also means an older spare wheel that uses a larger 25mm axle will not fit the new bike.Mason Owens

2023 KTM 450 XC-F Specifications

MSRP:	$11,649
Engine:	SOHC, liquid-cooled single-cylinder
Displacement:	450cc
Bore x Stroke:	95.0 x 63.4mm
Compression Ratio:	13.1:1
Transmission/Final Drive:	5-speed/chain
Dirt Rider Measured Horsepower:	54.6 hp @ 9,500 rpm
Dirt Rider Measured Torque:	33.0 lb.-ft. @ 7,000 rpm
Fuel System:	EFI w/ 44mm throttle body
Clutch:	Wet, multiplate Damped Diaphragm Steel (DDS); hydraulic actuation
Frame:	Central double-cradle chromoly steel
Front Suspension:	WP Xact 48mm fork, air pressure, compression damping, and rebound damping adjustable; 12.2 in. travel
Rear Suspension:	WP Xact shock, spring preload, high/low-speed compression damping, and rebound damping adjustable; 11.8 in. travel
Front Brake:	Brembo 2-piston caliper, 260mm disc
Rear Brake:	Brembo 1-piston caliper, 220mm disc
Front Tire:	Dunlop Geomax MX33; 80/100-21
Rear Tire:	Dunlop Geomax AT81; 110/100-18
Rake/Trail:	26.1°/NA
Wheelbase:	58.7 in.
Ground Clearance:	13.5 in.
Dirt Rider Measured Seat Height:	37.8 in.
Fuel Capacity:	2.25 gal.
Dirt Rider Measured Wet Weight:	246 lb.
Availability:	Now
Contact:	ktm.com