2023 KTM 450 XCF-W Review

The 2023 KTM 450 XCF-W is a closed-course competition sleeper model. It’s easy to assume there is little difference from the previous 500 XCF-W, but that’s far from the truth. Gone are EPA requirements that KTM had to comply with to qualify for California green sticker regulations, which nearly turned the 500 XCF-W into a dual sport bike in terms of how choked up the engine had to be.

The classification of closed-course competition motorcycle does not in any way mean this is a motocross bike. Instead, this is a purpose-built off-road trail bike without unnecessary emissions and noise restrictions.

A significant factor about this bike is that it retained the same chassis as last year and was not updated to KTM’s 2023 motocross chassis. This is good for us as consumers because the Austrian manufacturer’s current-generation (2020–2023) enduro and dual sport chassis has become very refined and performs exceptionally well.

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Unlike the 2023 KTM motocross and cross-country models, KTM’s enduro and dual sports utilize a coil-spring fork and PDS (Progressive Damping System) shock. Other features and components that make it enduro-worthy include a six-speed gearbox, 2.4-gallon fuel tank, radiator fan, headlight, taillight, and 18-inch rear wheel.

At first, for some, a 450 might sound like a big engine for riding trails or in tight woods, but this engine package is somehow perfect. It’s still the same engine in the prior-generation (2019–2022) 450 SX-F and 450 XC-F, but with noticeably different dyno numbers. On the Dirt Rider dyno, it produced 48.3 hp and 31.9 lb.-ft. of torque. This might sound low for a 450, but the way KTM has set it up with the ECU mapping and exhaust system makes the powerband of this engine something you typically only dream about.

Of course, if you plan on racing this bike, and since it is based on the 450 SX-F and 450 XC-F, parts are readily available if you want to modify it for more power. However, in stock form, it simply runs flawlessly. You can ride it slow and mellow on a relaxed trail ride, turn it up when needed, and it’s always ready. On the other hand, if you want to go fast and ride hard, it’s also ready for anything you put in front of it. It builds power from the lowest rpm and never stops without ever being too much to handle. Add in the six-speed gearbox, and you have the correct gear for almost any situation.

The 450 XCF-W uses a WP Xplor 48mm open-cartridge coil-spring fork and WP Xplor PDS shock. While this is not a linkage-type rear suspension, KTM has used the PDS system for more than 20 years, which is not inferior for enduro and trail riding, and if speeds are below 40 mph. It could easily be argued that this is a better system for such purposes.

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Fork and shock are fully adjustable with compression and rebound damping adjusters, and spring preload adjustability on both. Naturally, the suspension is softer for enduro, but the performance working range is still wide with its adjustability.

The chassis on the 2023 KTM 450 XCF-W is based on the 2020–2022 KTM 500 XCF-W models. This is a very refined and comfortable setup. Some say it has a slight stink bug feeling with PDS, but once you get a few hours on it and have your spring preload settings correct, it’s pretty balanced.

It carries all the high-end performance items you expect from KTM like the Brembo hydraulics (clutch and brakes), and Dunlop Geomax MX33 front and Geomax AT81 rear tires. Cockpit is open and has a nice flat feeling from front to rear. In addition, its frame with PDS rear suspension setup is softer in feel compared to the SX-F and XC-F linkage-equipped models, adding even more comfort to the ride.

There are nice OEM-mounted hand guards and a conservative but functional skid plate. The Neken handlebar isn’t cluttered with switches for turn signals, low and high beam lights, and horn. The bike came in at 248 pounds full of fuel on the Dirt Rider scales—less than I expected considering the additional fuel capacity, lights, and radiator fan.

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It’s more at home at lower speeds (below 40 mph) and on tighter trails, but is still stable on open two-track and fire roads. Also, because of the incredibly smooth-running engine and no unnecessary emission controls, the chassis feels much lighter than expected.

From the start, this motorcycle exceeded my expectations. This proper closed-course trail bike flirts with KTM’s motto, “Ready To Race.”

The engine is simply magic, and does nothing wrong. I rode it from axle-deep black mud to dry and hard dirt, all the way up to high altitude with snow. Never once did the 450 XCF-W do anything to say it was unhappy about the conditions it was being subjected to. Naturally, power is not equal to the 450 SX-F or 450 XC-F, but I would only want more if I were planning on racing high-speed desert-type events. Most important is the way this engine makes power. It’s so smooth and linear that you can ride it for hours without the need to use additional energy.

Although understandably on the softer side, the suspension still works exactly as designed. For me, the PDS system is the way to go for enduro, tight trails, and slower-speed conditions. It has performance advantages along with reduced maintenance benefits. The range of performance for the suspension is broad unless you plan on racing the bike seriously. If that’s the case, you would have your suspension revalved regardless of which bike you purchased.

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Overall, the 450 XCF-W performed up to my expectations and easily exceeded them in several areas. I thought the bike would be more limiting, but found that I could ride it to 90 percent of my ability before I began to look for more performance out of the suspension. If you’re searching for a trail bike that will perform very well in all conditions right off the showroom floor without modifications, this one will take a lot of work to beat.

Helmet: Bell Moto-10 Spherical

Goggle: 100% Racecraft 2

Jacket: Alpinestars Session Race

Jersey: Alpinestars Techstar

Gloves: Alpinestars Techstar

Pants: Alpinestars Techstar

Boots: Alpinestars Tech 7

Arched Front Fender Stickers: DeCal Works