KTM RC450 Production Model Leaked Ahead of Debut

Quick Highlights: 

• This upcoming RC450 gets the same engine as the CFMoto 450SR-S.

• Design inspired by the bigger KTM 990 RC R, along with an aggressive riding posture.

• Shorter wheelbase for sharper handling, and a claimed top speed of 195kmph.

The upcoming KTM RC450 has been reportedly revealed through Chinese homologation documents. KTM has a partnership with CFMoto for the Chinese markets, and it’s pretty evident on this bike as well. That’s because this is actually based on the CFMoto 450SR-S, a hardcore version of the 450SR. That said, the Austrian brand has made enough changes to give it a proper KTM personality. 

From the leaked images and details, the RC450 appears to be in its production-ready form. In terms of design, the RC450 carries KTM’s signature sharp, edgy styling along with a bright orange paint scheme. The wheels are also different on the RC450; the winglets look more pronounced, and the tall pillion seat looks exactly like the bigger KTM 990 RC R. Few parts like the mirrors and indicators seem to have been borrowed from the 450SR-S, but overall, the RC450 clearly has that ‘KTM’ attitude.

It uses the same 449cc parallel-twin engine, and trellis frame as the CFMoto 450SR-S. Along with this, the bike can also be seen with a single-sided swingarm, which not only makes the bike look premium, but should also help in improving its overall handling. At a reported 168kg (kerb), it's 3kg lighter than the 450SR-S, and also makes a healthier 56.2PS, which is a noticeable bump over CFMoto’s 51PS output. For perspective, the current-gen KTM RC390 makes 43.5PS and 37Nm, whereas the Aprilia RS457 produces 47.6PS and 43.5Nm. 

KTM has also worked on the bike’s dynamics. The suspension setup has been upgraded to adjustable WP units, instead of KYB in the 450SR-S. The clip-ons sit lower, giving the bike that proper committed riding position. Even the footpegs appear to be more aggressive, suggesting a more track-friendly stance. KTM has also added a WP steering damper, something the CFMoto version doesn’t get. Steering dampers help in high-speed stability by minimising unwanted handlebar movements.

The documents also reportedly mention that the RC450 gets a 10mm shorter wheelbase than the 450SR-S, which should theoretically make the bike feel more agile. The claimed top speed stands at around 195kmph - great for a bike in this segment. Tyre sizes are the same as the CFMoto, and also as the current KTM RC390, with a 110-section at the front and 150-section rear.

BikeDekho Says

The KTM RC450 appears to be a fun and exciting package overall. However, since this KTM bike has been developed in partnership with CFMoto, sadly it will be restricted only for the Chinese market. On the other hand, the Indian market will get the updated KTM RC390, based on the latest-gen KTM 390 Duke. 

That said, it will still take some time for its launch as the middleweight faired bike isn’t as hot-selling as other genres. Moreover, with the new GST norms, bikes over 350cc have become costlier, so for all we know, Bajaj (which now fully controls KTM) might just be currently focussing its efforts in developing the 350cc Triumph bike first. 

In a related development, the upcoming KTM 1390 Super Duke RR's key details were recently revealed, through European homologation documents. 

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