KTM’s peerless competition Supermoto motorcycle, the KTM 450 SMR, receives focused upgrades and a fresh look for 2026. The stopwatch is already anxious.
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? Firstly, the combination of the light, grunty SOHC 450 cc engine. Secondly, the lithe and agile chassis that contributes to exceptional handling, centralisation and sport-orientated ergonomics. Thirdly, the XACT WP Suspension for heightened feel and planted rear end stability. Fourthly, the tech specs; for electronics with traction control and launch control, large and powerful Brembo brakes, CNC-ed parts, ALPINA wheels, Metzeler tyres 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.
For 2025 the FIM have planted a new noise limit of 109 db. The 2026 KTM 450 SMR has been reengineered through EFI modifications, airbox inserts and silencer tweaks to meet this regulation with barely a dent in its ferocious output. 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.
Riders can also be sure of quicker and more efficient maintenance, as well as increased dependability of the radiator housing, thanks to a new closure component and system. More time at speed rather than in the pits.
The 2026 KTM 450 SMR has a different insulating cap for the CPC fuelling connector. The result is more protection from knocks or debris but also another shield against dirt or other terrain disrupting the engine performance and the flow from the 7.2 litre fuel tank. The fuel filter in the hose remains steadfast and easily accessible.
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 PowerPart 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. The GPS capabilities of the 2026 KTM 450 SMR now mean further analysis of riding style and performance on any given day or circuit.
Witness it: 2026. A new year, a new model and a new style. The KTM 450 SMR will be a more forceful orange blur due to the 2026 colours 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 authorised KTM dealers this November for £11,449.
For more information, visit KTM.com.
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