450 SX-F (MY2019)

The 450 SX-F is the top rung of KTM's motocross ladder, and it behaves like it knows it. At its core is a liquid-cooled, single-overhead-cam, four-valve 450 cc single making 63 hp, held in a chromoly steel double-cradle frame. KTM doesn't just hand you that power and walk away. Traction control, ride modes and launch control come standard, and they earn their keep when the track turns choppy and slick late in a moto. The suspension is adjustable at both ends, with 12.2 in (310 mm) of travel up front and 11.8 in (300 mm) out back, so you set the bike up for your track instead of riding around its settings.

This bike is for riders who have the fitness and the skill to manage it for a full moto. It favors the rider who stays smooth on the throttle and carries momentum over the one who tries to muscle it everywhere. It's built tough and has a deep aftermarket behind it, so it takes abuse and upgrades well. If you want the sharpest stock tool you can line up on, this is it. The honest caveat: a 450 at this level is a lot of motorcycle. If your conditioning or your throttle hand isn't there yet, it will wear you down long before the checkered flag.