First Look: 2021 KTM Motocross Range

KTM’s 2021 line-up has taken the new-generation chassis, suspension, bodywork and engines first seen on the 2019 models to new heights. For 2021, the KTM motocross range features updates to the suspension, chassis, and graphics across the board, and the flagship 450SX-F four-stroke gets modifications to the piston, crankshaft, engine casing, rocker arms, and shift locker. But arguably the biggest feature for the SX-F four-stroke range is KTM’s first-ever wireless smartphone tuning option through the myKTM app and PowerParts Connectivity Unit kit. This new technology gives riders the flexibility to change the machine’s power characteristics, traction control, engine braking, launch control, and it features a suspension setup guide for setting sag, compression, and rebound.
For more detail, here’s the official news from KTM Australia…

Drawing on feedback from elite racers, the 2021 KTM SX line-up introduces carefully considered refinements and performance updates across its range. Making a massive step forward, the 2021 KTM SX-F line-up offers wireless connectivity via the all-new myKTM app, a sophisticated yet highly accessible tool that launches a new era of efficient track-side bike tuning.

Motocross Range Updates

NEW SUSPENSION SETTINGS & SEALS
Revised for 2021, the WP XACT front forks and rear shock feature internal hardware updates. The configuration is now slightly firmer both at the front and the rear, after research found a refined optimum setting for traction and comfort. The objective was to achieve a feeling with the SX models where confidence and reassurance was at a new premium. Both suspension units benefitted from new ‘low friction’ seals made by SKF for the linkage bearings that reduce the friction level and cause the whole system to provide improved action. The reworked front fork has extended oil and air bypasses that reduce pressure peaks and a new mid-valve damping system for exceptional feedback. Suspension upgrades were an important addition to create that heightened riding sensation with the 2021 machinery.

NEW GRAPHICS
KTM revised the racy look in the previous model range and this has been reworked again for 2021. Whether riding, racing, play-riding or backflipping the serial production KTM motocrossers have to look the part and the refreshed aesthetic will not disappoint.

NEW FRONT FORK
In close collaboration with WP Suspension, the WP XACT upside-down front fork with state-of-the-art AER technology has been reworked for 2021. The new unit counts on extended oil and air bypasses; these reduce pressure peaks and complement a new mid-value damping system. The overall effect provides better performance and increased feedback thanks to the improved damping. As usual, no special tools are required to make changes as an air fork pump comes supplied with each bike.

NEW TYRES
The KTM 2021 SX models come equipped with Dunlop’s Geomax MX-33 tyres. The rubber is suited to soft terrain but with a wide scope of application and offers improved durability and better traction thanks to the compound and tread pattern. The MX-33 is also proficient for shock absorption thanks to the construction of the casing. KTM found that the qualities and performance of the MX-33 made it a very strong choice to suit the 2021 KTM SX line-up.

Four-strokes

As the flagship model in the four-stroke range, the KTM 450 SX-F benefits from modifications to the piston, crankshaft, engine casing, rocker arms, and shift locker to further hike the bike’s excellent reliability, shave more weight and aid practicality in terms of general maintenance.
In addition, the 2021 KTM 450 SX-F together with the new KTM 350 SX-F and KTM 250 SX-F machines can connect with the advanced myKTM app using an extra Connectivity Unit kit – available in the KTM PowerParts catalogue. With the bar-pad-integrated Connectivity Unit fitted and the myKTM app installed, riders can personalize their KTM SX-F according to their preferences and track conditions without technical assistance. Offering the finest technical touch, the myKTM app allows for a wide spectrum of adjustability on the fly, a privilege that was limited to elite KTM factory riders until recently.

Two-stokes

As a towering example of power-to-weight ratio excellence in the KTM 2-stroke range, the 2021 KTM 125 SX is boldened with a fresh piston and clutch internals, with the treatment extending to the 250 cc-bothering KTM 150 SX.

Minis

KTM treats its Sportminicycle roster with the same ground-up priority for development as the full-size bikes. The KTM 85 SX, KTM 65 SX and KTM 50 SX & KTM 50 SX MINI therefore count on a new throttle assembly for better and smoother throttle action. For the KTM 85 SX, braking potential is much higher thanks to larger discs and a completely new front and rear brake system made by FORMULA. All three junior motocrossers now have a tapered handlebar allowing fitment of ODI lock-on grips. For the KTM 50 SX and KTM 50 SX MINI, the new tapered handlebar allows fitment of thinner grips.

KTM Product Offroad Manager, Joachim Sauer: “The development work never stops for our engineers here in Mattighofen or over in the USA. Gathering feedback from top-level Motocross and Supercross racers from every part of the world, for model year 2021 we are proud to introduce the most technically advanced line-up of motocrossers on the market. Class leaders in terms of performance, the 2021 models enjoy detailed refinements combined with updated racy looks across the range. For 2021, we are very pleased to introduce the myKTM app for all four-stroke models, an advanced tool designed to help riders get the best out of their potential.”