2025 450 MX Bike Shootout | In Depth

The 2025 KTM 450 SX-F.

SECOND PLACE (TIE): 2025 KTM 450 SX-F

Test Rider Scores: 2-2-3-4-4

The most aggressive of the Austrian trio, the KTM 450 SX-F truly lives up to the brand’s slogan, Ready to Race. With the most aggressive suspension and most potent powerband of the Pierer Group, the 450 SX-F makes the most of the new chassis with firm suspension settings that can be pushed hard and a strong, linear powerband that relies more on torque than RPMs. Everything about the KTM feels solid and rewards the rider who rides it aggressively. It is not a comfortable bike, per se, as it is purpose-built for competition. The KTM 450 SX-F ended our shootout in a dead tie with the Honda CRF450R for the runner-up spot in our 2025 450 MX Bike Shootout. 

Eric Mascho on the KTM 450 SX-F.

“The KTM is deliberately firm in a good way! The SX-F really is ready to race and it is set up to feel good being pushed hard…it is not built for comfort. The bike stays planted and has a positive feel in corners, with good grip on a lean angle.” – Pat Foster

“It’s amazing how more aggressive the KTM feels than its Austrian brothers. The SX-F has a nimble, responsive feel, and the harder you ride it, the better the bike seems to work. If I bought this bike, I would add the Factory Edition connectivity package, as the KTM phone app allows for extensive powerband fine-tuning.” – Donn Maeda

“This is a real race bike! Initially, the fork was far too soft for me, but we were able to make some clicker adjustments that made me more comfortable. The engine is very powerful but it has a very high engine braking feel that took a bit to get used to. That did help the front end feel very planted in the corners, though.” – Eric Mascho

“The KTM is very easy to ride and the engine has a very electric feel that puts the power to the ground very effectively. The SX-F handles very well and is super predictable with no surprises. This bike always has great straight-line stability, yet corners amazingly well.” – Kyle Puerner

“This bike is awesome and the engine and chassis feel like they work together as one unit. I love absolutely everything about this bike except the air fork because it lacks comfort, and the excessive vibration that I think all of the European bikes have. The shock is excellent, If it was paired with a spring fork, this bike would be unbeatable.” – Alex Ray

TEST RIDER HITS

Best brakes in the class.

Excellent rear-wheel traction.

Strong engine with great ignition map variance. 

Excellent ergonomics and great aesthetic appeal.

TEST RIDER MISSES

Excessive vibration at high RPM.

Air fork lacks initial plushness and comfort.

Handlebars are rigid and do not dampen engine vibration much.