- Limited to just over 100 units worldwide, available from July 2026
- An additional eight units of the Luciano Benavides Factory Edition in Red Bull KTM livery
- 449.3 cc SOHC single-cylinder engine with Akrapovic titanium exhaust, 6-speed gearbox, and 35-liter fuel capacity
Since 2020, the KTM 450 Rally Replica has carried four different riders to overall victory at the Dakar Rally. With 12 out of 21 KTM Dakar wins and 250 stage victories to date, the model is considered the production motorcycle that comes closest to a factory racing machine. For the 2027 model year, KTM is once again releasing a strictly limited edition built directly by the motorsport department in Austria. The announcement coincides with the January success at the 2026 Dakar Rally, where Argentine rider Luciano Benavides secured the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team’s sixth triumph in the past ten editions.
Engine and Drivetrain of the KTM 450 Rally Replica 2027
At the heart of the KTM 450 Rally Replica 2027 sits a 449.3 cc SOHC single-cylinder four-stroke engine with fuel injection. The cylinder head features a single overhead camshaft with four titanium valves actuated via DLC-coated rocker arms. The engine management and 44 mm throttle body come from Keihin and are configured with rally-specific ECU mappings tuned to the interplay between airbox, engine, and exhaust system. A gear detection sensor is designed to deliver an adapted power characteristic in each gear.
The engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox and a hydraulic Brembo clutch, which according to KTM features rally-specific gearing. The standard titanium exhaust system from Akrapovic is designed to save weight and features a hydroformed section on the underside to maximize ground clearance. Cooling is handled by two independent radiators that not only improve efficiency but also serve as a backup system in case one is damaged during off-road use.
Frame and Suspension
The frame of the KTM 450 Rally Replica 2027 is made from chromium-molybdenum steel and is hydroformed, laser-cut, and hand-welded. The construction is designed for a targeted balance of longitudinal and torsional flex, intended to deliver a direct riding feel with high stability and precise feedback. Compared to the predecessor, KTM says the frame tubes, forged steering connection, and wall thicknesses in particularly stressed areas have been revised. The rear self-supporting 16-liter fuel tank also serves as the subframe.
The hollow aluminum die-cast swingarm is designed for minimum weight with optimal stiffness. In combination with a proven linkage and the fully adjustable shock absorber, it is intended to deliver maximum traction under acceleration and bottoming-out resistance.
For the suspension, KTM relies on WP PRO components at both ends. Up front is a 48 mm WP XACT PRO 7548 closed-cartridge fork with Cone Valve technology and 304 mm of travel. At the rear, a fully adjustable WP XACT PRO 7750 shock absorber provides 280 mm of travel. The CNC-machined triple clamps have a 23 mm offset and are rally-specific in design. The package is completed by a proprietary PHDS system and a Scotts steering damper.
Brakes, Wheels, and Cockpit
The braking system comes from Brembo and uses 300 mm brake discs at the front and 240 mm discs at the rear. The wheels consist of black, high-strength EXCEL aluminum rims attached to aluminum cast hubs with lightweight spokes and steel nipples. Dimensions are 21 inches at the front and 18 inches at the rear.
The cockpit is dominated by a carbon navigation tower that sits protected behind the fairing and features a narrower instrument panel. According to KTM, this design improves aerodynamics and reduces turbulence at high speeds. Integrated LED warning lights signal when the front or rear tank reserve is activated. The LED headlight assembly in the front mask is said to deliver 33 percent more light output than the predecessor and is designed for early starts in darkness and poor visibility. Provisions for mounting a digital roadbook are also included.
35-Liter Fuel Capacity in a Three-Tank System
For long rally stages, the KTM 450 Rally Replica 2027 features a three-tank system with a total capacity of 35 liters. Two separate 9-liter tanks sit in the front area, while the self-supporting 16-liter tank is located at the rear. Each tank section is supplied by its own fuel pump, independently accessible and activatable. This system serves simultaneously as a backup and as an additional means of monitoring fuel levels.
The ergonomics are tailored to competitive use. A tapered aluminum alloy handlebar with rally-proven foam grips, wider footpegs with an enlarged contact area, and a rally-specific seat are designed to provide comfort and control both standing and sitting over long distances. The bodywork has been aerodynamically revised and, according to KTM, combines weather protection with freedom of movement. An electric starter combined with a lightweight 4.5 Ah lithium-ion battery ensures reliable starting, even at low temperatures. A tool compartment integrated into the engine cover rounds out the equipment.
Luciano Benavides Factory Edition Limited to Eight Units
In addition to the standard version, KTM is releasing eight units of the KTM 450 Rally Replica Luciano Benavides Factory Edition. The special model was created to celebrate Luciano Benavides’ 2026 Dakar victory and differs from the base model both visually and technically.
The most striking difference is the full Red Bull KTM livery, which is intended to bring the motorcycle even closer in appearance to the Dakar factory bike. Additional features include carbon factory components such as brake disc and tank pads, a numbered LE emblem on the frame, and a Selle Dalla Valle seat. The wheels come factory-fitted with mousse-equipped Michelin rally tires.
Buyers of the Factory Edition also receive an enhanced customer experience as part of the KTM Adventure Rally 2026. The annual event takes place in early September through the region around Perugia in Italy and is already fully booked. Factory Edition customers enjoy VIP status there, including a personal vehicle handover by the Dakar winner, a signed race suit, and direct support from the factory team during the riding days. The Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team will also be on-site with its team truck and expertise.
Color Scheme and Availability
For the 2027 model year, the KTM 450 Rally Replica returns to the classic KTM orange. The standard version is delivered with white bodywork panels, an included sticker graphic kit, and the option to customize the bodywork with team and sponsor logos. Both variants are available for order from July 2026 through authorized KTM dealers, while limited stock lasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How many units of the KTM 450 Rally Replica 2027 will be built?
KTM is producing just over 100 units of the standard version. An additional eight units of the Luciano Benavides Factory Edition will also be made. All vehicles are assembled at the KTM motorsport department in Austria.
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When will the KTM 450 Rally Replica 2027 be available?
Deliveries of both variants are scheduled to begin in July 2026 through authorized KTM dealers worldwide. Early reservation with a dealer is recommended due to the highly limited production numbers.
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What is the fuel capacity of the KTM 450 Rally Replica 2027?
The three-tank system holds a total of 35 liters. Two 9-liter tanks sit up front, while a self-supporting 16-liter tank is located at the rear. Both sections are supplied by separate fuel pumps.
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What sets the Luciano Benavides Factory Edition apart from the standard version?
The Factory Edition features the full Red Bull KTM livery, carbon factory components, a Selle Dalla Valle seat, mousse-equipped Michelin rally tires, and a numbered LE emblem. Buyers also receive VIP access to the KTM Adventure Rally 2026 in Italy, including a personal handover by Luciano Benavides.
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