The 2025 KTM 450 XCF-W rolls into the open class with a renewed appetite for finding the limit. Boasting a class-leading chassis, unflappable suspension, race-proven bodywork, and rider-focussed ergonomics - not to mention one of the winningest 450 cc engines in the class - the KTM 450 XCF-W is ready to launch off the line with the podium firmly in its sights.
Getting READY TO RACE has never been easier. The 2025 KTM 450 XCF-W boasts a tool-free suspension setup at both ends. At the rear, our legendary, race-winning PDS technology features hand-adjustable dual compression controls, allowing riders to adjust high- and low-speed settings in a matter of seconds. On the front, the forks are also easily adjusted thanks to hand-adjustable clickers on the bottom of the fork shoe and on the fork top cap, making changing settings on the fly as easy as twisting the throttle.
Air filter box
The air filter box is designed to ensure maximum airflow with minimal water intrusion. Precision in how the inlet ducts are positioned is aimed at preventing air deformation and maintaining filter protection. An enduro-specific splash protector under the airbox prevents water or dirt from splashing up from the rear wheel, while the Twin Air filter and air filter support design features a simple fail-proof mounting system for a secure and accurate filter installation. All this ensures the air filter is easily accessed, without tools, for fast trail-side maintenance.
Fuel Tank
The transparent, polythene (XPE) fuel tank is a signature element of the KTM Enduro lineup. Having undergone thorough race testing in everything from the GNCC to the hardest of FIM hard enduros, these tanks are built, well, like tanks! A one-piece fuel pump and filter manage fuel supply, while servicing is made extra simple with easy fuel filter access. What's more, an updated fuel tank roll now holds the tank more firmly in place and protects the frame against scrubbing.
Switchgear
On the right side of the handlebar, you'll find a sleek start/stop switch taken directly from our motocross machines, and on the left, an optional Map Select switch can be installed that allows riders to choose between Map 1 or Map 2.
The powerplant in the KTM 450 XCF-W is a perfect example of advanced engineering techniques developed on the race track and transferred to the dealership floor. With an overall weight of just 63.9 lb (29 kg), this powerplant is as powerful and it is prone to winning championships.
Quickshifter
Clutchless upshifts are the name of the game with the an optional Quickshifter. The function works by interrupting the ignition for a fraction of a second. This allows upshifting without the use of the clutch lever, while the throttle is fully opened. On the technical side, a sensor on the shift drum notices the force on the shift lever, sending the signal to the ECU and interrupting the ignition timing to slot the next gear in. The Quickshifter can also be deactivated via the new map select switch and is only active from 2nd to 6th gear.
Traction Control
Blasting through wet and muddy terrain just got a lot easier with the optional Traction Control function. TC analyzes throttle input from the rider and the rate at which the RPM increases in the engine. If the RPM increases too quickly, the EMS registers a loss of grip and reduces the amount of power to the rear wheel. This ensures maximum traction. Of course, it can be switched off for complete control.
Offroad Control Unit
The Offroad Control Unit - or OCU - is located under the seat and replaces all the electronic fuses and relays. All outputs are switched depending on signals from the voltage regulator and the ECU continuously. In the event of over-current, outputs are deactivated individually. This makes for easy error detection as the status of each output is indicated by a red or green LED light. This means diagnosing an electrical issue out on the trail is as easy as lifting the seat, and there's no more need to carry fiddly fuses.
Selectable Engine Maps
Designed for easy operation, the map select switch is available as an optional extra on all KTM XC-W models and allows for the easy selection of 2 unique engine maps. Map 1 is the standard, more linear, and predictable power map, while map 2 is a more aggressive map for added throttle response and more crisp, explosive power output.
Battery & Wiring Harness
The KTM 450 XCF-W is fitted with a proven and reliable electric start system. Powered by an ultra-lightweight 2 Ah lithium-ion starter battery, it provides a safe, reliable starting time and time again, while the wiring ha
Ergonomics
The KTM XC-W range features a rider-focussed body-position triangle, providing improved knee contact - especially when standing on the pegs - with improved gripping surfaces all around. With the plastics working to expel mud buildup in wet, muddy conditions, a flat seat profile with a high grip seat cover providing exceptional rider movement and control, and a polyamide-reinforced aluminum subframe providing unmatched rider feel and feedback, your only concern is navigating the terrain ahead of you.
Exhaust
Providing the bark to the KTM 450 XCF-W bite, the exhaust system is designed to deliver hard-hitting performance at the lowest possible weight. The 2-piece header pipe design is made to be as compact as possible, with the routing of the header pipe extremely close to the engine for maximum of mass centralization and minimum exposure to rocks. At the nose-making end, a short, compact silencer is crafted from lightweight aluminum and finished in a premium matt black coating.
Specifically engineered for longitudinal rigidity, the 2025 KTM XC-W range is engineered around a black powder coated frame providing exceptional rider feedback, energy absorption, and high-speed stability. This is achieved by repositioning the rotating masses in the frame along with a forged steering head connection. The footrest mounts also feature a slim design for less risk of hooking up. And when the ride comes to an end, a forged one-piece side stand ensures your enduro weapon stands proud.
Subframe
An ultra-light lightweight subframe takes charge at the rear of the main frame, featuring a 2-part polyamide and reinforced aluminum construction. With the help of computational dynamics, a specific rigidity was engineered into the subframe, to deliver outstanding handling and rider feedback. This compact subframe design also boasts the the ability to bend and flex in the event of a crash, rather than break, with the subframe fully integrating electronic components, without any extra need for brackets, holders, or unnecessary fixtures.
WP XACT Closed-cartidge Fork
A 48 mm WP XACT Closed Cartridge spring fork provides fast and consistent damping, with optimized oil flow. This means these forks ensure unmatched performance at every level. Fork protection rings also protect against dirt intrusion. But, best of all, the fork allows for full adjustment of compression and rebound without the need for any tools.
WP XPLOR Shock
Remaining a hallmark of KTM Enduro weaponry, a PDS rear shock concept improves the anti-squat behaviors of the chassis. This remains the most reliable and maintenance-friendly option for competitive enduro racing. Moreover, a lightweight WP XPLOR PDS rear shock takes charge at the rear. For 2025 the rear shock received updated settings, resulting in improved pressure balance within the shock. With consistent damping, as well as full adjustability thanks to easy-to-use hand clickers for adjustments on the fly, it remains the setup to beat.
Wheels and Tires
The KTM 450 XCF-W rolls on a set of high-strength GIANT alloy wheels coupled to CNC-machined hubs and aluminum nipples. These are wrapped in a set of ultra-grippy Dunlop tires providing exceptional traction in all conditions.
The KTM XC-W range maintains stability at any speed thanks to its forged steering head connection and triple clamps providing riders with a forgiving feeling. Crafted from high-grade aluminum, they offer a more flexible steering stem, precise alignment of fork tubes, and accurate geometry of fork clamps. This setup ensures highly responsive and smooth fork action, as well as unwavering stability during ultra-fast flat-out special stages.
LED headlight
Lighting the way forward, the KTM XC-W range features an LED headlight unit and light mask. The mask itself features triple clamp protection against roost and does away with the rubber mounting straps for improved fitment. Most importantly, the LED lighting unit provides serious illumination, making riding in the dark a completely new experience.
Adjustability
Air filter box
Fuel Tank
Switchgear
Engine
Quickshifter
Traction Control
Offroad Control Unit
Selectable Engine Maps
Battery & Wiring Harness
Ergonomics
Exhaust
Frame
Subframe
WP XACT Closed-cartidge Fork 
WP XPLOR Shock
Wheels and Tires
Stability
LED headlight
