[Features]

KTM’s $56K 450 Rally Replica Beast

4 years ago | Words: Andy Wigan | Photos: KTM Images

What would you pay for a bike that’ll only have 84 equivalents worldwide this coming year? A bike whose pedigree has seen it notch up 18 consecutive Dakar Rally victories? A bike widely considered the king of countless deserts around the world, but which can now be registered to ride around your local streets? A bike with half the fuel capacity (33 litres) of the average car, and enough navigation equipment to get you anywhere you want to go? A bike that’s impossible to build up yourself? Well, KTM is asking for $56,000 for one of these incredible limited-edition 450 Rally Replica models; a machine that’s bristling with high-end, Dakar-proven components and technology.

If you want to drool over this head-turning bike’s finer details, check it out on KTM’s site. In the meantime, here’s KTM’s PR about the recent unveiling of the upgraded 2021 model 450 Rally Replica…

KTM’s Ready to Race mantra is perfectly channelled in the 2021 version of the KTM 450 Rally Replica. In recent years, this limited-production model has gained elevated status thanks to the components and performance that have come directly from requests by Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Toby Price, Matthias Walkner and Sam Sunderland. This is a motorcycle designed to excel in multi-stage cross-country rallies, to satisfy even the toughest demands of the rally racer and to win.

The fiery 450cc SOHC fuel-injected motor is wrapped in a competition-based chassis with a series of finer details to denote the exclusivity of this machine. Those specs include refined WP XACT Pro closed-cartridge suspension with sophisticated Cone Valve technology, and purposeful aerodynamics and ergonomics crafted for peerless handling across a wide breadth of terrain.

For 2021, KTM has honed the engine package with a brand-new gearbox and revised shift mechanism. The direct influence of Pankl Racing Systems materials inside the KTM Motorsport department meant technicians were able to further hike the bike’s excellent reliability, but also benefit the rider with a larger gear spread.

The habits and styles of the three Red Bull KTM Factory Racing riders – all of whom have sampled Dakar Rally winning success in the last half a decade – assisted in the finalisation of gearing ratios. The result is that the KTM 450 Rally Replica now comes with the same gear ratios as those advocated on the machines of Dakar Rally champions.
According to Stefan Huber, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Rally Team Leader, “The work goes on! We’re proud of the 2021 KTM 450 Rally Replica. With this model we have already set the bar very high in giving the customers a product so close to what we prepare and take to rallies across the world. Of course, we always make new discoveries, and this means the 2021 bike is a significant upgrade. The gearbox construction and configuration will make a difference to the riders who want to push the KTM 450 Rally Replica. It is crucial for us to be able to transfer what we learn directly into the hands of KTM riders. We’re here to win races, but making a better product is very important and satisfying. I personally look forward to seeing this incredible machine in racing action at the upcoming 2021 Dakar Rally!”

The 2021 KTM 450 Rally is a highly sought-after, limited-edition model restricted to 85 units worldwide. There is no guarantee of supply due to this strictly limited availability. With a price tag of $55,995 AUD, the MY21 model features full Australian ADR compliance. For more information and to enquire about placing a pre-order, refer to your authorised KTM dealership or visit www.ktm.com

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