Supercross is rebooting for a new season and KTM is rebooting its 450 SX-F and 250 SX-F into new Factory Edition models.

Actually, the changes are significant, but not ground-up overhauls. The frame is the same (except for a flashy orange powder-coat job, just like the pro race team). The engine itself is the same as the standard 250 and 450 models, with no updated internals. However, KTM added a titanium Akrapovic muffler and a Twin Air filter, which may boost power or at least make for better power delivery. There’s also a Hinson clutch cover added; new radiator shrouds are supposed to help the engine cool more efficiently.

Photo: KTM

The 250 and 450 Factory Edition models also get KTM’s Offroad Connectivity Unit included as stock equipment. This allows the rider or their team to fine-tune the engine’s power through an app. As per the PR:

This two-part system is mounted between the right fork leg (protected by the new shape of the number plate) and the GPS component on the redesigned front fender. The ‘CUO’ enables a wealth of easily adjustable options for engine behavior and suspension settings via the KTMconnect App. But that’s not all. An official affiliation with LitPro will empower riders to examine their lines, speed, gearing and a lot of other information to make their lap times hit the mark.

On to the chassis! KTM ran its usual routine here, adding new CNC-milled triple clamps (orange-anodized, to match the frame, and rubber-mounted). These are supposed to be carefully tune to offer the right stiffness for the steering stem, help keep fork tubes lined up and allowing more precise handling when the course gets rutted. The WP fork XACT AER fork is fully adjustable without using tools, with 310 mm of travel. The bike also comes with WP’s factory start device installed to help riders battle for the holeshot. In back, the bike has revised shock linkage settings, with the assembly designed for optimal stiffness and some weight savings.

Upgraded wheels from DID come standard, and a semi-floating front brake disc.

The Factory Edition models come with plenty of other upgrades, all minor stuff but making the bike work better in a race. A grippy seat cover, a set of ODI grips, factory-style frame protectors, orange rear sprocket, a gold drivechain, a skid plate, front brake disc guard and plenty of other similar detail-oriented updates. Find more details on the new 250 Factory Edition here; details on the 450 are here. KTM says they’ll be at dealers in February, and that’s who you should call for an MSRP.