Before even getting on the bike, the first thing I noticed was the electric start. With four-strokes being difficult to start at times, this is a major plus. Once I got on the bike, I noticed the footpegs felt a lot higher than on my Honda, or it's possible the seat sat lower on the frame. For sure, after riding CRFs for four years, the KTM took a little getting used to. On my first moto, it seemed as if the suspension was too stiff-it felt as if every little bump I hit or jump I slightly overjumped sent me bouncing. Then we played with the suspension, and the bike was completely different. It absorbed braking and accelerating bumps like a Honda! Just from being a few clicks stiffer! It also took a while to get used to the four-speed transmission. The brakes were never consistent; they were either off or locked up. It seemed as if it was harder to time the speed of hitting a jump, especially when I had to rev it out. One trait I really liked was if I pointed the bike into a rut, it would get me there and stick in-its cornering is unbelievable.-Chris Dvoracek/5'11"/165 lb/Intermediate
When I saw the new KTM 450, I was impressed. The bike has an awesome look to it, inspired by the Dakar Rally bikes. When you sit on the bike, it feels really comfortable. The riding position felt perfect to me. The seat is the most comfortable of all the MX bikes I've ridden, and the bar fell into place. The gas cap is much better than the small caps that KTM used to make. Also, the electric start is awesome. I don't care how much weight it puts on-it's worth it. I just think that kickstarting the 450s is a hassle. Everyone will love the electric start. After riding the KTM, I thought it felt longer than the past model. This is good because the bike felt really stable at high speeds. The suspension was also improved. The bike feels a bit unbalanced. I think the shock felt better than the fork. The KTM turns steadily on the fast flat turns, but it stood up on the tight, rutted turns. I'd also overshoot some lines in turns because the bike wouldn't let me go into the line I wanted. Sometimes jumping it was the same. If you tried to move the bike around, it was a bit hard. The motor was really strong, with smooth power everywhere. The exhaust also kept the bike quiet, which is good. On a fast straight, the KTM needs fifth gear. It just didn't feel good going wide-open in fourth gear, as the engine is too aggressive. Overall, I think this is the best KTM ever, and it has an awesome look. Taking into consideration all the things KTM offers you (components, electric start, etc.), this would be the bike I'd buy.
-Alfredo Contreras Macklis/5'9"/175 lb/Intermediate
My biggest problems on the MX track with 450s are being intimidated by the power and worrying about overjumping landings, which makes me unable to really get comfortable on them. I felt at ease right away on the new KTM. The power is very easy to manage, with no crazy hit. Jumping the bike was easy; it felt light and nimble in the air. On the ground, it was the same, with a more predictable and precise manner than previous KTMs. The shock was a little harsh on acceleration chop because of my weight; it forced me to stand up more than I wanted to, but going up to the 6.9 spring worked wonders for the suspension, front and rear. I don't know whether I love the new look and KTM should get two thumbs-up or if it's the ugliest thing on the track. But I'm sure it will grow on me.-Derek Steahly/6'1"/215 lb/Novice MX