2024 450 MX Shootout In Depth | Gas Gas vs. Honda vs. Husqvarna vs. Kawasaki vs. KTM vs. Yamaha

The KTM 450 SX-F

Third Place: KTM 450 SX-F

Test Rider Scores: 3-3-3-3-2-3-3

Of the three Austrian machines, the KTM truly is the most race-ready and feels bred for competition. Power – and lots of it – is on tap from the instant the throttle is cracked, and the orange bike can yield several different power personalities depending on the map and traction control settings. The KTM chassis feels great with a lively feel that feels planted and well-balanced. The bike corners exceptionally well yet exhibits plenty of straight-line stability; impressive for a bike that has such enviable cornering abilities. Overall, the bike has a much more positive feel than before. 

“The KTM has been my top pick in the past because it is a great overall bike that is super powerful and also handles great. It’s awesome that the bike has so much adjustability with the mapping and traction control switch. It comes back unchanged for 2024 and I still like it just as much as I ever have.” – Connor Ericsson

“The KTM engine offers a really strong mix of low-end torque, but with a decent amount of punch to it. It hits hard, but in more of a strong progressive pull than a snap/hit. It is strong and deep but manageable. The KTM feels pretty planted and aggressive in stance, save for a little bit of disconnect with the suspension. Although the air fork is drastically improved over prior years, it still does not offer the same comfort/compliance as a spring fork. That said, the KTM feels ready to race.” – Pat Foster

Test Rider Hits

Broad, usable power….and lots of it!

Excellent brakes

Cornering abilities are excellent

Comfortable ergonomics

Test Rider Misses

Bike feels stiff until the chassis is broken in

Stiff handlebars

Some testers still dislike air forks