KTM 450 Rally Replica – The Dakar conqueror

Last week, Spanish motorcycle racer, Marc Coma, crossed the chequered flag at Barradero, around 150 kilometres north of Buenos Aires to claim his fifth Dakar win. This victory also marked the 14th consecutive victory for KTM. The Austrian manufacturer has dominated the Dakar rally since 2001 and has been the preferred weapon of choice for many other endurance rallies. Even India’s very own CS Santosh made his Dakar debut astride the KTM 450 Rally Replica, completing the rally in a respectable 36th position overall. We take a look at this incredible machine and try to uncover the truth behind its success. 

Standing true to its ‘Ready To Race’ tagline, the 450 Rally Replica is an exact copy of the KTM 450 prototype that Marc rode to victory in the previous year’s Dakar Rally. While the previous Rally Replica model was based on the 690’s platform, the new 450 Rally Replica has been redesigned ground up to tackle the harshest of the terrains you might encounter in cross-country rallies. 

The 450 Rally Replica is considerably slimmer than its predecessor and has improved ergonomics to reduce fatigue during those gruelling stages. A carbon fibre tower at the front holds the sophisticated instrument cluster, road book and the transponder, while allowing an unobstructed view of the front tyre. 

The 450 Rally Replica is built around a new chromium-molybdenum steel trellis, to accommodate the smaller 450cc engine and two separate fuel tanks with a combined capacity of just over 35 litres. A narrow fuel tank in front gives better rider comfort, while a rear one has been positioned to offer better weight distribution. A special fuel pump allows the rider to switch between front and rear fuel tanks, allowing a better control over the bike's weight distribution. 

Powering the 450 Rally Replica is a specially tuned version of the 449cc single-cylinder engine. The engine employs a 44mm throttle body with Keihin EMS electronic fuel injection and also gets an Akrapovic Titan exhaust system. Suspension duties are performed by 48mm upside down forks at the front and a link-actuated monoshock in the rear. 

The 450 Rally Replica is sold through dealerships in Europe for EUR 24,000 (Rs 17.19 lakh). For an additional cost, KTM also offers a service and support package at the Dakar Rally.