The highest-performing 450cc motocrosser of the Austrian trio.

While searching through the Dirt Rider archives from the past 15 years, we were reminded that the KTM 450 SX-F has received mechanical changes every year since at least 2007. That’s a long time for one model to get such consistent updates. For 2022, the Austrian manufacturer took a well-deserved break and left the 450 SX-F alone, at least mechanically. Cosmetic changes in the form of an orange frame, blue seat cover, white rear fender, and new graphics make the 2022 model look much better than the 2021.

Related: 2022 KTM Motocross and Cross-Country Bikes First Look

How did the 450 SX-F jump up from a third place finish from last year’s 450 Motocross Shootout without any performance-focused revisions? Another bike went backward slightly in our eyes this year, which allowed the orange machine to improve its ranking. Just like in 2021, KTM’s flagship motocrosser has a lot going for it; it’s one of the best, most well-rounded 450 motocross bikes on the market.

2022 KTM 450 SX-F Engine

The 450 SX-F shined on our in-house dyno. With a Dunlop D404 street tire on its rear wheel, KTM’s flagship motocrosser churned out 55.0 hp at 9,400 rpm and 34.3 pound-feet of torque at 7,500 rpm—the most peak horsepower and torque of the bikes in this comparison.ADVERTISEMENT

On the track, the 450 SX-F offers the longest power delivery and pulls seemingly forever in each gear. It’s also impressively strong and torquey. These characteristics make the KTM engine one of the most versatile in the class. It can be short-shifted and lugged or revved to the moon effectively, making it suitable for riders of varying skill levels and riding styles. It’s the most lively Austrian bike in the test with the strongest acceleration and torque feel. Another excellent feature is its Brembo hydraulic clutch.

Downsides of the powerplant are that it’s not as free-revving as the Japanese bikes, nor is its throttle response as crisp or snappy. It also vibrates more than the Honda CRF450R, Kawasaki KX450, and Yamaha YZ450F. Despite those few unfavorable qualities, the KTM engine is still one of the best in the class.

2022 KTM 450 SX-F Suspension

In accordance with KTM’s “Ready to Race” motto, the 450 SX-F has the most performance-oriented suspension setup of the Austrian bikes. Its setting is firmer than the GasGas MC 450F, Husqvarna FC 450, and KX450, but not as stiff as the YZ450F’s. Comfort is better than the CRF450R, but the WP components are still not as plush as the KX450 and YZ450F’s respective suspensions.

The WP Xact air fork’s bottoming resistance is unreal, while the WP Xact shock needed more holdup for riders over 170 pounds, as demonstrated by tire marks on the underside of the rear fender. This was mostly alleviated by going stiffer on the shock’s high-speed compression adjuster. Aside from that, stock settings are in the ballpark for most riders. Testers also praised the WP units’ ability to absorb small chop with a fairly supple feel while holding up over big hits.

2022 KTM 450 SX-F Chassis/Handling

A superb, neutral-handling chassis is one of the main factors that makes the KTM so much fun to ride. The 450 SX-F and its Austrian siblings are second-quickest to steer behind the CRF450R; although Big Red leans very far in the direction of quick-handling manners and lacks stability. The KTM, on the other hand, is stable and predictable at speed. Its balanced handling characteristics are complemented by its 235-pound measured wet weight. As one of the lightest bikes in the class, the 450 SX-F is playful and extremely easy to put where you want.

Agreeable ergonomics further sweeten the deal, including narrow bodywork from front to rear, a roomy cockpit, well-proportioned rider triangle, and a comfortable seat. Not to mention its Brembo brakes, which are strongest in the class and a shared component with the FC 450 and MC 450F. One minor complaint we have is the stiff and wide Neken handlebar, which is thankfully a relatively inexpensive and easy item to replace.

Related: 2022 KTM 450 SX-F Review

Why the 2022 KTM 450 SX-F Should Have Won

It makes the most peak horsepower and torque, has a powerful yet very rideable engine package, a neutral-handling chassis, the strongest brakes, an awesome hydraulic clutch, and is one of the lightest bikes in the class. The KTM’s features and capability off the showroom floor are hard to beat.

Why the 2022 KTM 450 SX-F Didn’t Win

Comfort from the suspension and chassis aren’t up to the standard set by the other podium finishers. Also, the engine character isn’t as free-feeling or quick-revving as the Japanese competition.

Gearbox

Helmet: Fox Racing V3 RS

Goggle: Fox Racing Vue

Jersey: Fox Racing Airline

Gloves: Fox Racing Airline

Knee Braces: Alpinestars Bionic-7

Pants: Fox Racing Airline

Boots: Fox Racing Instinct