The 2024 KTM 450 SMR has been uncovered and continues to push the supermoto segment, with a frame engineered for optimal rider feedback and a class-leading engine that is complimented by a host of competitive electronics.

Next year’s incarnation has been given a fresh new splash of colour using in-mould technology for the bodywork. KTM orange, white, and black create an attractive blur at speed, but there is also the distinctive streak of purple, inspired by KTMs from the ’90s barreling around international race tracks.

A 450cc SOHC engine fires out 63 horsepower and with longer service intervals. At less than 27kg, the powerplant is a masterpiece of power-to-weight engineering. A 44mm Keihin throttle body brings in the fun and gauges the right response while the Suter slipper-clutch adds another important way to modulate lap-time speed.

Image: Supplied.

Improved handling thanks to the centralisation of the motor and chassis within the hydro-formed, laser-cut and robot-welded frame. The compact construction has just the right amount of longitudinal rigidity and flex to provide superb feedback, energy absorption and straight-line stability.

The reinforced aluminium subframe weighs in at 1.815kg and was generated from computational dynamic studies – sensitivity, robustness and reliability were the parameters. The hollow, die-cast aluminium swingarm is another remarkable contributor to the 2024 KTM 450 SMR’s experience, along with a Neken aluminium handlebar and CNC machined triple clamps (rubber damped for less vibration).

The 48mm WP XACT split front fork has AER technology for progressive and consistent damping, especially in the last 40mm of travel. Count on quick-access click adjusters for compression and rebound. The WP XACT shock is small, light, and fixed with the frame geometry for better ground clearance of the linkage system. The XACT unit is one of the most advanced pieces of hardware to emerge from the WP Suspension factory lines. Like the fork, the shock’s compression and rebound can be configured without the need for tools.

Image: Supplied.

Easy life for the racer thanks to specialist features such as the electric start, the tool-less air filter for simple replacement, a performance-designed airbox, a flat and high seat (with a high-grip cover) to accommodate control at any angle and a large polythene 7.2-litre fuel tank, meaning more miles at speed. Carefully engineered footpegs with a larger surface area but revised integration into the frame – they are optimized for tarmac and the varying conditions of the terrain.

Run to the limit of the corners with heavy-duty Brembo brakes. The four-piston radial calliper will clamp the 310mm front disc at the merest stroke of the lever while a single-piston unit grabs the 220 mm rear disc to set off those time-saving drifts.

The 2024 model features acute ‘triangle’ ergonomics, making the bike easier to move underneath you. The ergonomics focus on centralisation and putting the rider in the ideal attack position. Front-end control but rear-end confidence is the default ‘setting’ for the 2024 KTM 450 SMR and the various contact points from the carefully designed bodywork play their part.

In addition, a raft of special race-orientated details such as two selectable engine maps, launch control, traction control and the quick-shifter, all administered by a 44mm Keihin engine management system. LED hour meters and fuel injection status and a rollover sensor (ROS) are included. The ROS detects the position of the bike in the event of a crash and automatically kills the engine in a nod towards improved safety.

Equipped with Metzeler Racetec SM K1 supermoto tyres, boasting a large performance scale in terms of temperature range and different states of asphalt. The tyres are fitted to high strength but light Alpina alloy rims with CNC machined hubs.

The 2024 KTM 450 SMR invites riders to eat the chrono and question their own capabilities. Ready to Race has rarely been more acutely applied to any KTM model – this year there won’t be any excuses. The 2024 KTM 450 SMR will be available at authorised KTM dealers in Australia from August 2023 onwards. For more information, visit www.ktm.com.au.