2019.5 KTM 450 Factory Edition First Ride Impressions

Описание: 3-20-19 East Fork MX: First ride on my new 2019.5 KTM 450 Factory Edition. One of the best looking bikes off the showroom floor! Akrapovic muffler is very quiet. Might take away a little of the bark at the initial turn of the throttle but power builds quickly. I run the optional black (aggressive) throttle cam. The power is so smooth and controlled. The EFI mapping seems refined with more crisp response to throttle inputs compared to my 18.5 FC450 Rockstar Edition. The engine has a free feeling with little compression braking - even with only 1.3 hours use. The more lively throttle response makes the bike feel as light as it actually is. I only ran in Map 1 today. Traction was easy to find today with great track conditions but this bike seems to effortlessly put the power to the ground. I ran suspension in the Comfort settings which worked great with my slow speed today. The new Factory Edition settings might give a little more comfort at the top of the stroke and a little more progressive damping in the mid compared to my 2018.5 Rockstar Edition. I like the new 19 ergo's: radiators lower and thinner shrouds up front. I may go +1T bigger on the rear sprocket but really like the long pull in 2nd and 3rd now. I did not notice the stiffer stock Neken handlebars today - something I usually notice on KTM's so maybe the new triple clamps improve flex up front. First ride biggest impressions: smooth and traction finding power. Free feeling engine. Light and agile in motion and lifting on the stand. Looking forward to more rides soon!