Even though the KTM quads are aimed at cross country
racing, it is apparent the first time you ride
one that it is the most versatile quad currently
in production. The power is substantial, yet very
rider friendly and smooth. The 450 is comparable
to the other manufacturer’s quads, but the
potential for tuning is apparent. The 525 is comparable
to a heavily modified 450, and its only 94db!
In repeated drag races, the 525 was at least as
fast a big-bore, ported, TRX450R with ignition
mods and a full exhaust. The engines start quickly,
with no need for the hot start. It seems that
the hotter the engine gets, the quicker it fires.
The starting seems to be not quite as instantaneous
as a YFZ450, but way better than anything else
out there with a button. The hydraulic clutch
was fade-free during my test rides, and it does
make a big difference when the quad is designed
for a fluid clutch instead of a bolt-on retrofit
affair. The ergonomics were definitely taken into
account during development, and the plush seat
is a welcome feature.
The suspension on the KTM’s is better
than all the Japanese 450’s, with the
YFZ being the closest and the LTR450 understandably
better on an MX track. The CanAm DS450 is comparable
to the KTMs on high speed MX-style conditions,
but I personally did not get the seat time on
a DS450 in a cross-country type terrain to make
a proper comparison.
|
| The
SwingArm Skid Plate also has an intergrated
chain guide, which is a nice feature,
but if the skidplate comes lose it will
bind up the chain, which happened to Adam
McGill during the test ride |
The KTM’s weakest point is a skittish
front end, that is not very confidence inspiring
in stock form. This is very noticeable on the
525. The proper caster adjustment, shock setup,
and the addition of a steering damper make a
big difference and are necessary to make this
part of the package race ready. With so many
shock, a-arm and bar clamp adjustment choices,
it is going to be up to the owners of these
machines to take the time to set them up properly.
During my ride, the rear shock was flawless,
and on the GNCC-style test track, it really
did not get my attention as something that needed
immediate attention. The front brakes on the
KTM’s are outstanding, and are surely
the benchmark for all other OEM stoppers. The
overall feel of the quads was that of modified
race machines, and the long travel suspension
and fast engines contribute to the aftermarket
feel of the ATV’s.
With the sport quad scene growing exponentially,
and with the fight for market shares expanding
well beyond the Japanese stronghold, KTM has
come into the game with both barrels blazing.
Their experience in manufacturing, cutting-edge
technology, and passion for the sport have combined
to create two powerhouse machines that signal
the new world order of performance ATV’s.
This is a great era of production racing machines
for our sport, and KTM has pushed the envelope
that much further with the 450 and 525XC.
