The powerplant in the KTM 450 EXC-F 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 29 kg, this powerplant is as powerful and it is prone to winning championships.
Review – Key Features – Features & Benefits – Specifications
2026 KTM 450 EXC-F 6DAYS: TEST YOUR LIMITS.
Introducing the 2026 KTM 450 EXC-F 6DAYS…
The KTM 450 EXC-F 6DAYS needs little introduction in enduro circles. Big power, unmatched agility, and truckloads of torque put this extreme READY TO RACE enduro weapon at the sharp end of any offroad battle. For 2026, it retains its championship-winning pedigree with a lightweight frame, closed-cartridge suspension, and a weapons chest of smart electronics to the paddock.
2026 KTM 450 EXC-F 6DAYS Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
- ORANGE ANODIZED CNC MACHINED TRIPLE CLAMPS
- 6DAYS BRANDED PARTS
- ORANGE FRAME
- RADIATOR FAN
- MAP-SELECT SWITCH
- ORANGE FRONT AXLE PULLER
- SEMI-FLOATING FRONT BRAKE DISC
- SOLID REAR BRAKE DISC
- REAR BRAKE SAFETY WIRE
- SUPERSPROX STEALTH REAR SPROCKET
- SKID PLATE
- UNIQUE 6DAYS SPAIN GRAPHICS
- FRAME PROTECTION SET
- 6DAYS SPECIFIC SEAT
- METZELER 6DAYS EXTREME TIRES
KTM’s finest competition range of Enduro machinery once again carries the colors and status of the ultimate team event of the international calendar. Leave the rest for roost with the 2026 KTM EXC 6DAYS collection.
THE MISSION: The arrival of the annual 6DAYS means a historic and glorious stage for KTM’s Enduro might. For this year’s gathering of the best riders in the world and the best machinery, KTM is marking the occasion with the special edition KTM EXC 6DAYS for the model year 2026 and five refined bikes that can help make the difference against the chrono. Noumerous updates are in place to optimize performance further and provide distinctive style and aesthetics in honor of the event form the 2026 KTM EXC 6DAYS line-up. READY TO RACE infuses KTM’s Enduro engineering but the KTM 6DAYS is pure expression of the tech and trend necessary to pull away from the pack and look cool while doing so at the oldest FIM offroad contest there is.
THE MOMENT: The 2025 6DAYS FIM Enduro of Nations (formerly the ISDT or ISDE for International Six Days Enduro) will churn terrain around the northern city of Bergamo, Italy for a week at the end of August and KTM will again have a prominent presence in the 99th incarnation of this famous annual fixture. Italy, the UK, the USA and France have claimed the prestigious World Trophy since the turn of the decade and more KTM-equipped athletes will be probing for personal and team glory come the launch on 24 August.
THE MACHINERY: 2026 KTM EXC 6DAYS editions include the KTM 300 EXC 6DAYS (2-stroke) and KTM 250 EXC-F 6DAYS, KTM 350 EXC-F 6DAYS, KTM 450 EXC-F 6DAYS and KTM 500 EXC-F 6DAYS (4-strokes). The initial platform is the 2026 KTM Enduro range, which features several updates to the tried, tested and unbeatable technical offering across the board. The new bikes benefit from revised material and settings for the 48mm WP XACT closed cartridge forks as well as the WP XPLOR PDS shock: less weight, improved feel, increased stability for faster times. KTM has also reinforced the fueling system for all models with a new protector cap, and bolstered cooling reliability with a more resistant radiator closure. Radiator fans come as standard.
THE MODIFICATIONS: Italian territory for the upcoming 6DAYS is celebrated with a dedicated livery and blue, white, green and red colors across the bodywork, front mask, forkguards, seat (shaded blue but with factory grippy fabric) and swingarm. The 2026 KTM EXC 6DAYS motorcycles will be unmissable and their unique profile is also recognizable thanks to the orange found on the glossy frame, CNC machined triple clamps, front axle puller, chain guide, frame protectors and Supersprox stealth rear sprocket. 6DAYS branding can also be seen on the handlebars (with a specific bend), silencer and wheel rims.
More 2026 highlights include:
- Floating front brake disc & solid rear disc
- Rear brake safety wire for increased resistance
- Weight-saving skid plate
- Map selector switch
- Metzeler 6DAYS Extreme tires
All 4-stroke 2026 KTM EXC 6DAYS Enduro special editions will be available at authorized KTM dealers starting from September. With the 2-stroke KTM 300 EXC 6DAYS following up in October.
2026 KTM 450 EXC-F 6DAYS Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
SETTING THE SAG
Adjustability
Getting READY TO RACE has never been easier. The KTM EXC range 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.
DEEP BREATH
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 safe and accurate filter installation. All this ensures the air filter is easily accessed, without tools, for fast track-side maintenance.
FULLY FUELED
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.
ISDE24 INSPIRED
Graphics
The KTM 6DAYS range sends a high-flying salute to the ISDE Italia, with striking graphics incorporating the colors of the Italian flag, a glossy orange frame, and striking blue finishes.
SLEDGEHAMMER
Engine
The powerplant in the KTM 450 EXC-F 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 29 kg, this powerplant is as powerful and it is prone to winning championships.
DROP THE CLUTCH
Quickshifter
Clutchless upshifts are the name of the game with the Quickshifter - fitted as standard on the 4-stroke KTM 6DAYS models. 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 map select switch and is only active from 2nd to 6th gear.
TOTAL TRACTION
Traction Control
Blasting through wet and muddy terrain just got a lot easier with the 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.
SMARTER ELECTRONICS
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.
PICK YOUR POWER
Selectable Engine Maps
Designed for easy operation, the map select switch comes standard on the KTM 6DAYS 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.
LITHIUM POWERED
Battery & Wiring Harness
As with the rest of the 4-stroke EXC-F range, the KTM 450 EXC-F 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 harness has most of the electrical components carefully positioned under the seat for easy accessibility.
FLUID RIDER MOTION
Ergonomics
The KTM EXC 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.
UNMATCHED PERFORMANCE
Exhaust
Providing the bark to the KTM EXC-F 6DAYS ranges 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 noise-making end, a short, compact silencer is crafted from lightweight aluminum and finished in a unique 6DAYS anthracite color, proudly displaying the 6DAYS logo.
6DAYS EQUIPMENT
Top-shelf Componentry
The first KTM bearing the 6DAYS name tore onto the scene way back in 1996. Almost 30 years later, we’re still keeping that legacy alive. All KTM 6DAYS models receive the full 6DAYS treatment, from machined orange anodized triple clamps, right down to a solid rear brake disc. Each and every element on a 6DAYS model is specifically chosen for the job at hand, stamped with a coveted 6DAYS logo, and let loose to dominate the field.
RIDE MORE
CPC Fuel Connector
A protection cap is used for the CPC fuel connector on all models. This not only prevents dirt from entering the sides of the connector and prevents mistakenly opening, but also adds protection from sticks or stones that might hit it. The small fuel filter in the fuel hose still stays in place and is easily accessible.
COOL HEADED
Cooling System
A radiator fan is fitted as standard equipment across the KTM EXC and EXC-F model range.
BUILT TO BE THE BACKBONE
Frame
Specifically engineered for longitudinal rigidity, the KTM EXC-F range is engineered around a gloss-orange 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.
MORE THAN A SUBFRAME
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.
UNFLAPPABLE FRONT END
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.
GET THE POWER DOWN
WP XPLOR Shock
Remaining a hallmark of KTM Enduro weaponry, an 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. 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.
WHERE RUBBER MEETS DIRT
Wheels and Tires
The KTM EXC-F 6DAYS range rolls on a set of high-strength 6DAYS-branded GIANT alloy wheels coupled to CNC-machined hubs and aluminum nipples. These are wrapped in a set of ultra-grippy Metzeler 6 DAYS Extreme tires providing exceptional traction in all conditions.
HOLD THE LINE
Stability
The KTM EXC range remains rock-solid at any speed thanks to a repositioned and forged steering head connection and CNC-milled triple clamps. Made from high-grade aluminum, these feature optimally tuned steering stem stiffness, perfect alignment of the fork tubes, and precise geometry of the fork clamps to ensure highly responsive and smooth fork action – not to mention unwavering stability for those ultra-fast flat-out special stages.
SEE INTO THE FUTURE
LED headlight
Lighting the way forward, the KTM EXC range features an LED headlight unit and light mask. The mask itself features improved 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.
2026 KTM 450 EXC-F 6DAYS – Totalmotorcycle.com International Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $ See Dealer USD
Canada MSRP Price: $ See Dealer CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £11,599 GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
Engine
Design
1-cylinder, 4-stroke engine
Displacement
449.9 cm³
Transmission
6-speed
Fuel-mixture generation
Keihin EFI, throttle body 42 mm
EMS
Keihin EMS
Clutch primary drive teeth
72
Primary drive
29:72
Clutch
Wet, DDS multi-disc clutch, Brembo hydraulics
Engine cylinder
Single cylinder
Engine stroke
4-Stroke
Chassis
Frame design
Central double-cradle-type 25CrMo4 steel
Front brake
Disc brake
Rear brake
Disc brake
Rear subframe design
Aluminum-reinforced polyamide
Chain
520 X-Ring
Suspension
Front suspension
WP XACT-USD, Ø 48 mm
Rear suspension
WP XPLOR shock absorber with PDS
Suspension travel (front)
300 mm
Suspension travel (rear)
310 mm
Front suspension adjustment
Compression and rebound adjustable
Rear suspension setting
Compression and rebound adjustable
Dimensions
Seat height
963 mm
Ground clearance
347 mm
Tank capacity (approx.)
8.5 l
Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).
Posted on August 19, 2025 by Michael Le Pard
