- 41.3 kW (56.2 hp) peak power
- 168 kg weight
- Shared technical basis with the CFMoto 450SR S
The documents submitted in China show the RC450 in its final appearance for the first time. The motorcycle is set to go into production soon and combines familiar KTM design elements with technology from the collaboration with CFMoto.
KTM look and familiar technical basis
The RC450 comes in bright orange and features a large RC logo and the number 450. Under the fairing is a 449 cc two-cylinder engine, which is already known from the CFMoto 450SR as a 270-degree twin. The frame and swing arm are also said to come from this model. The swing arm corresponds to the single-sided design of the SR S.
At 168 kg, the KTM is said to be slightly lighter than the CFMoto 450SR S, which is listed at 171 kg. According to the documentation, the peak power output is 41.3 kW. This corresponds to 56.2 hp and 41.3 kW. The CFMoto has 38 kW, which means that the KTM is slightly more powerful.
Changes to the chassis, ergonomics, and equipment
Despite the common basis, the RC450 differs in several respects. KTM uses a WP chassis instead of the KYB components found on the CFMoto. The handlebar stubs are located below the upper triple clamp, which is intended to result in a more sporty seating position. A WP steering damper is also visible.
A Quickshifter load sensor, similar to the one used by CFMoto, can be seen in the gearshift area. However, the footrests and lever arrangements appear to have been redesigned and mounted higher.
The fairing is based on KTM’s angular design language. The rims differ from the spoke design of the CFMoto, and winglets at the front emphasize the sporty approach. The very high passenger seat suggests a focus on racing. The mirrors and turn signals, on the other hand, are said to come from CFMoto, which once again demonstrates the close technical relationship.
Geometry, tires, and electronics
According to the registration documents, the wheelbase is 1360 mm, which is 10 mm shorter than that of the CFMoto 450SR. This indicates a more front-heavy geometry. The top speed is stated as 195 km/h. The ABS system uses the Bosch 10.3MB unit.
Like the CFMoto, the RC450 uses 110 70 R17 tires at the front and 150 60 R17 tires at the rear.
Outlook
The published technical specifications indicate that KTM is planning a compact sports bike with the RC450 that is clearly aimed at sporty riders, yet still relies on a proven platform. An official launch date has not yet been announced.
