KTM Updates The 450 SMR For 2026

Motorcycle.com Staff
by Motorcycle.com Staff

Fine-tuning for a bike that's so good, yet lives in an extremely niche market.

When you live in a category of one like the KTM 450 SMR, there's not really a need to make anything better. But KTM went ahead and made some improvements to the 450 SMR anyway. They're not sweeping changes, but this continual refining raises the bar for the supermoto category.


Begin press release:



Slide To New Limits With The 2026 KTM 450 SMR

The KTM 450 SMR follows KTM’s lineage and spirit. The bike is a highly refined track tool for three purposes: owning checkered flags, destroying lap records and challenging the rider to be better and faster every day. Pure performance with pure objectives. 


Need a reminder of the KTM SMR pedigree? First, the combination of light and grunty performance in the SOHC 450 cc engine. Second, the lithe and agile chassis that contributes to exceptional handling, mass centralization and sport-orientated ergonomics. Third, the XACT WP Suspension for heightened feel and planted stability. Fourth, the tech specs: class-leading electronics with map selection, traction control and launch control, large and powerful Brembo brakes, CNC-machined parts, ALPINA wheels, Metzeler tires and more.


KTM has enhanced this formidable competition platform with important updates to denote 2026 status. The KTM 450 SMR is the latest itineration of the ultimate expression of Supermoto thrills.


The 2026 KTM 450 SMR’s EFI, airbox and muffler have been modified to improve rideability, in addition to meeting the latest FIM and AMA regulations. Users can push the limits without hesitation, knowing that the 2026 KTM 450 SMR is still the most potent player off the line – the bike is just a little quieter about how good it is.


The 2026 KTM 450 SMR has a different insulating cap for the CPC fueling connector. The result is more protection from knocks or debris, but also another shield against dirt or other elements disrupting the engine performance or the flow from the 1.9-gallon (7.2-liter) tank. The fuel filter in the hose remains steadfast and easily accessible. Riders can also be sure of quicker and more efficient maintenance thanks to a new radiator closure that makes checking vital fluids a breeze. 


The KTM 450 SMR can also be equipped with the Connectivity Unit Offroad (CUO). The 2026 model has been crafted to adopt the CUO as a KTM PowerParts add-on, which opens up more set-up possibilities courtesy of the KTMconnect app through smartphones. The CUO can be fixed between the CNC Triple clamps and the GPS sensor attached to the front fender. Once a connection is established then engine management, suspension settings and mileage can be altered and tracked through a few simple taps of the screen. Adding GPS capabilities to the 2026 KTM 450 SMR now mean further analysis of riding style and performance on any given day or circuit. 


A new year, a new model and a new style, check it out for yourself. The KTM 450 SMR will be a more forceful orange blur due to the 2026 colors and graphics with the tough, but flexible in-molded plastics. A retro dash of purple is the only concession to the past, and the distinctive KTM shade is offset with a menacing black across the frame and wheels.


The 2026 KTM 450 SMR will be available at authorized KTM dealers starting from November onward. For more information, visit  ktm.com.


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Motorcycle.com Staff
Motorcycle.com Staff

Motorcycle.com presents an unrivaled combination of bike reviews and news written by industry experts

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2 of 3 comments
  • Dr_169103017 Dr_169103017 on Nov 06, 2025

    Friend of mine has a street legal Husky 450 supermoto. Very annoying to ride with him because of the tiny gas tank. Constantly stopping for gas and he still runs out occasionally and we have to siphon some out of the other bikes with bigger tanks.

  • Hacksaw Hacksaw on Nov 08, 2025

    Lmfao!

    tell him to get one of those small extra fuel

    Cell cans from LowBrow Customs. They have a holster that straps to the bike

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