KTM has never been more accurately defined than the 2022 KTM 450 SX-F Factory Edition. With its development based on feedback and the success of factory riders around the globe, the bike is limited to 400 units in terms of production. It is the perfect mount for budding supercross champions. The first KTM 450SXF Factory Edition was proudly introduced as the ‘Dungey Replica.’ Now, 11 Ready to Race models and five 450SX Championships later, an all-new KTM450 SXF Factory Edition and KTM 250SXF Factory Edition are ready to hit dealer floors and stadiums across the U.S., just in time for the first gate drop of the 2022 AMA Supercross Championship.

If anyone wants to race a motorcycle similar to what they see Marvin Musquin, Aaron Plessinger, and defending 2021 Monster Energy Supercross Champion Cooper Webb shortly, the 2022 KTM 450 SX-F Factory Edition may be the best way to start. This Factory Edition has enough significant new parts to make it a brand-new model.

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The 2022 KTM 450 SX-F Factory Edition Is A More Capable Machine

2022 KTM 450 SX-F Factory Edition's Engine
Via ktm.com

New bodyworks with specifically tailored ergonomics for easier rider movements are just some new bits on the motorcycle. New topology optimized aluminum swingarm provides optimum rigidity and low weight. The Quick shifter provides seamless upshifts without using a clutch to save up on every fraction of a second. The all-new aluminum sub-frame construction provides precisely calculated rigidity and advanced durability when the going gets tough.

The WP 48 inch front forks with AER technology provides a more progressive end of stroke damping, and the rear mono-shock is also from WP. It has CFD-optimized main piston and tool-free adjusters. There is also the availability of a multi-function map switch that changes the ECU settings and enables the quick shifter, traction control, along with launch control. The Red Bull factory racing graphics also attracts a lot of eyes. There is also a new metal bash plate on the lower end that protects the engine casing from debris.

The 2022 KTM 450 SX-F Factory Edition Gets Improved Handling Dynamics

KTM 450 SX-F Factory Edition
Via ktm.com

While it retains its SOHC, 4-valve architecture, the 2022 KTM 450 SX-F Factory Edition’s engine is tilted back two degrees from the standard model according to KTM, which dramatically improves mass centralization resulting in easier handling and maneuverability with better anti-squat behavior, and there’s a new cylinder head too. The valve cover is lighter, and the front sprocket sits more than a tenth-of-an-inch lower. All of this lowers the center of gravity.

A CP bridged-box piston has anodized ring grooves and bumps up the compression to 13.1:1. However, there is a catch, traction control, and launch control work perfectly fine with the motorcycle. The quick shifter only works from 2nd on up to 5th gear. The rider has to manage the clutch to shift from first to second and downshifts. Also, the shift shaft and transmission ratio are updated.

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The 2022 KTM 450 SX-F Factory Edition Packs Better Ergonomics And Comfort

2022 KTM 450 SX-F Factory Edition's Side View
Via ktm.com

For a bike producing 63 HP while weighing just 227 pounds, the KTM is very tightly packaged and nimble. To accommodate for this, the engineers at KTM have made a host of changes to the bike's seating. The 450 SX-F features a flat seat with the race-proven Selle Dalla Valle high grip seat cover, which gives the rider exceptional control. There is a recessed grip pocket just under the seat and above the air filter, making it easy to maneuver the bike in parking situations. The bike is also equipped with a high-strength NEKEN handlebar with a proprietary KTM bend and ODI grips which give exceptional control. The die-cast footpegs are newly designed to offer a larger surface to step on while not hooking on dust, mud, or ruts. There has also been a change in the mounting points of the footpeg, which saves weight and reduces the chances of clogging up.

The KTM SX-F also impresses when it comes to its dimensions. The wheelbase is 58.8 inches, the rake is 26.1 degrees, the seat height is 37.5 inches, the ground clearance is 13.5 inches, and the tank can hold 1.85 gallons of fuel. The 2022 KTM 450 SX-F is the ultimate mid-class machine for anyone looking to dominate at the local or national level. It is an undisputed new class leader with an all-new design and top-shelf componentry across the board.

With mass centralization and flex optimization as key goals, KTM engineers have reimagined these crucial components to produce a new one-piece swingarm with optimized topology and flex, a new aluminum-polyamide hybrid subframe offering advanced durability and rigidity. It also has an inspired frame design with a new shock mount that greatly improves the overall feel and comfort. True to its Factory Edition aesthetic, the frame comes powder coated in glossy orange and is affixed with frame guards and a skid plate as standard.