KTM reveals 2026 450 Rally Replica
For more than two decades, KTM has offered a limited run of ‘Rally Replica’ models annually. Inspired by the big 660 and 690 singles from the early 2000s, then the 450 that has successfully flown the flag for KTM at Dakar and other rally raid events since 2011, each year’s Rally Replica has been popular, particularly with privateer entrants in the annual marathon enduro.
Initially, KTM offered just 45 Rally Replicas, but for the past few years, 100 units have been produced annually. For 2026, a total of 150 will be built, plus five very exclusive bikes with a special Aussie connection.
The 2026 450 Rally Replica arrives on the back of a dominant Dakar performance by KTM this year. Daniel Sanders won the Bike class outright and Edgar Canet was victorious in Rally2, while Emanual Guynes triumphed in the Original by Motul Class aboard a 2025 450 Rally Replica. As that model was a major upgrade, with changes to the engine, frame, radiator, instrumentation and styling, there are essentially no changes for the 2026 version.
Spec for Performance
Power for the 450 Rally Replica comes from a 449cc four-stroke SOHC single that’s liquid-cooled, with 12.6:1 compression and forced oil lubrication. Dual radiators provide the cooling, and an Akrapovic titanium exhaust system keeps weight down, while Dakar-ready fuel capacity of 35 litres is spread across three fuel tanks – two at the front and one at the rear. A wet clutch, six-speed gearbox and chain final drive are standard.
The running gear sits in a hand-welded, race-spec chromoly frame, to which a die-cast aluminium swingarm is added. KTM says that the frame’s laser-cut, hydro-formed sections deliver exceptional rider feedback, energy absorption and straight-line stability.
To this, premium WP Pro Components suspension, as used by the KTM works team, is fitted. A proven 48mm WP XACT Pro 7548 closed cartridge cone valve fork slots into yokes with a 23mm offset that are CNC-machined for stiffness. Atop this, KTM’s own PHDS (Progressive Handlebar Damping System) is added, along with a Scotts steering damper. At the rear, the WP XACT Pro 7750 monoshock is fully adjustable to suit rider preference and terrain. Combined, this package offers 304mm front and 280mm rear wheel travel.
Wheels are spoked aluminium, in 21-inch and 18-inch, fitted with Michelin tyres for most markets, although these are unconfirmed for Australia. Braking is made up of petal discs with Brembo calipers - two-piston at the front and a single-piston at the rear.
Both the fairing and tower for mounting the roadbook were redesigned for the 2025 Rally Replica, so carry over unchanged for the 2026 version. The fairing was specially designed to reduce turbulence and rider fatigue at speed, while the carbon fibre tower reduces weight. Below this, the narrow dash display features integral warning lights.
The 2025 450 Rally Replica introduced an LED light system that increased output by a claimed 33 per cent. This is retained for the 2026 replica, as are features like the tool holder in the engine cover, sharper styling, colour scheme and even the graphics.
KTM’s dire financial situation, particularly over the past six months, may explain why the 2026 450 Rally Replica is unchanged from the 2025 model, but KTM have added a more exclusive option for 2026.
Honouring Chucky
To commemorate Daniel ‘Chucky’ Sanders’s victory at the 2025 Dakar – his first and KTM’s 20th - a ‘Sanders Edition’ of the 450 Rally Replica will be even closer to the factory bikes.
Finished in the same Red Bull livery as the works machines, the Sanders Edition also features the Aussie’s #4 sticker kit from this year’s Dakar, with the front numberplate sticker personally signed by Sanders himself.
Factory wheel rims with Michelin tyres, plus an additional set with street tyres, are supplied. Other factory parts fitted to the Sanders Edition include the brake discs, a Hinson clutch cover, painted handguards, titanium footpegs and a special Selle Dalla Valle seat.
The factory fuel cap is engraved with Sanders’s name, with similar identification added to the Akrapovic silencer. Carbon chain sliders and two height options for the factory tank pads are also supplied, along with an additional windshield that will be personalised for the owner.
Only five units of the 450 Rally Replica Sanders Edition will be produced, each identified by an emblem on the frame - #001 to #005. A KTM race jersey signed by Sanders will be included with each bike, along with VIP entry to the 2025 KTM Europe Adventure Rally in Romania this August, where Sanders will personally present each owner with their bike and ride with them at the event.
Exclusive, Expensive
Pricing has not been revealed for the 2026 450 Rally Replica, nor for the Sanders Edition. Based on previous years, the “standard” version is expected to command more than $50,000 in Australia, with the Sanders Edition to be even more expensive.
To confirm availability and order the 2026 450 Rally Replica, contact your KTM dealer.
