KTM UPGRADES 450 RALLY REPLICA FOR 2021

KTM has released details of their 450 Rally Replica for 2021, which will be limited to just 85 units worldwide.

The Rally replica is as close as us mere mortals can get to the machines ridden to victory at the Dakar Rally and in the FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship by Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Toby Price, Matthias Walkner and Sam Sunderland. Upgrades made to the ultra-exclusive MY21 Rally Replica have been inspired by input from the factory racing team.

The Rally Replica’s 450cc fuel-injected SOHC single-cylinder engine remains, fueled by Keihin EMS injection, lubricated by twin oil pumps and with an Akrapovic exhaust system as standard.

For 2021, this has been matched to a brand-new six-speed gearbox with a revised shift mechanism. The direct influence of PANKL Racing Systems materials inside the KTM Motorsport department meant technicians were able to further hike the Rally Replica’s reliability with these gearbox changes, but also benefit the rider with a larger gear spread. Gear ratios are said to be the same as those used on the actual competition bikes by Price, Walkner and Sunderland.

The engine and transmission are mounted to a competition-based frame that combines a chromoly steel trellis main section with a carbon fibre subframe that also contains the auxiliary fuel tanks.

Using carbon fibre in areas like this contributes to a dry weight of approximately 139kg.

Race-inspired details that set this machine apart from other KTM enduro models include WP XACT PRO closed cartridge suspension at each end, with sophisticated Cone Valve technology on the forks and a fully-adjustable monoshock rear. Listed travel is 305mm at the front and 300mm at the rear.

Other notable features include the “purposeful aerodynamics” and refined ergonomics that deliver what KTM says is peerless handling across a wide variety of terrain.

Speaking on the MY21 450 Rally Replica, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Rally Team Leader, Stefan Huber, said: “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!”

With only 85 units of the 2021 KTM 450 Rally Replica available globally, KTM Australia cannot guarantee local supply, but they can confirm the price, which is a whopping $55,995. For pre-ordering and more information, see your authorised KTM dealer or visit www.ktm.com/en-au