KTM 450 EXC-R '07. Equipping for desert running? - Horizons Unlimited

**redsnapper** · #1 24 Jul 2007

Hello

I have just bought a 07 450 EXC-R with 2 hours on the clock.

I will be running this on rocky trails and some sand around Riyadh. It is pretty tough on tyres.

Temperatures will be from 10C to 40C. I won't be riding over summer as that is insane.

I would appreciate advice on the 'must do' list.

I have ordered a JD jet kit. The previous owner cut out the exhaust restrictor plate. He also seems to have removed the air cleaner plastic cover (I have this in a box). Apart from that it is pretty much stock as far as I can tell.

I'd appreciate advice on :

Bigger replacement tanks (all parts must be available in the UK or by mail order to UK address)

Desert tyres (dry rocky flinty sand)

Any must do's (bits that drop off, break etc and are worth fixing in advance)

I have a sump guard which appears to be plastic, also some KTM lever protectors.

Rear rack (need to carry desert survival gear)

Basic GPS and mount that will work in KSA

Anything else?

Thanks in advance

RichS

**Laromonster** · #2 24 Jul 2007

KTM makes 13 and 18 litre tank, acerbis makes a 25 i believe ( using the 18 or 25 requires a new seat) .
tires: Maxxis maxxcross it are good for rocky grounds and wear like iron
the ktm plastic handguards do NOT protect the levers, too flexible, better off with some made of aluminium, ive got the acerbis multiplo, but many others are available
As for the rest of the bike.. it doesnt get any better than what you got

**mollydog** · #3 25 Jul 2007

I would check over on ADVrider Thumper forum. Lots of KTM guys there...even a few that have a clue. Lots of newbies there so filter them out....and hopefully the more experienced guys will help you out.

Also go over to Thumper Talk, KTM450 forum. Some good guys there too...all dirt riders. Some kids but some experienced guys too. Like any bike, there are dozens of mods....some useful, many Bling based.

You decide. You can get good ideas on tires and maintainance.

Patrick

**wonky** · #4 3 Aug 2007

Theres a good thread on ADVrider about 525EXC's as Adventure Bikes. I believe 450 and 525 are pretty much same apart from capacity so check it out......

KTM 525 EXC as an Adventure Bike - ADVrider

Maybe try talking to the people at Moto Aventures(correct spelling). They do loads of miles in the desert with their fleet of KTM 450's so should be experts

Good Luck!

**razmataz** · #5 4 Oct 2007

Hi,
I just equipped my 525 for the desert rallyes in Marocco and Tunisia.
Here are the specialists:
K T M - S O M M E R in Germany with good tips

Meca'System : accessoire moto de cross et d'enduro, protection carbone et alu moto in France, they equip mainly for the Dakar...

Touratech AG for the little things.

I recommend:
A big gas tank with 25 Liters from Acerbis, the handle bars with steel, a ventilator, or the bigger water pump, the touratech mounting for the GPS with a permanent charger, the Rallye underneath gard to carry tools and water, the Michelin Desert Tyre front and rear with inlays (old tubes).
All the rest is absolutely perfect, just need to check the screws once in a while.
I am running those changes (like many other) ín the rallyes without problems, its a superb bike...

Cheers
Rasmus

**mladen** · #6 13 Oct 2007

Hi!

I have a 07 KTM EXC450 and I'm planning to do a trip in the Tunisian desert. I would like to ask if I have to do something with the air filter because of the sand. I already have the dust cover for the filter, but is this enough?

Thanks for the answer.

**razmataz** · #7 16 Oct 2007

Hi mladen,
no, the dust cover is fine. Two more tips: First, be sure that the airfilter is fitted perfectly and covers the full air intake. Some riders use grease on the rim to tighten it up. Second, always carry with you a pre-oiled airfilter with you during the day. If you experience problems, then you can blow out the dust cover behind the exhaust and fit a new airfilter. The "dirty" one can then be cleaned in the camp. You can fix the filter in a plastic bag and strip it somewhere on the bike...
Otherwise your 450 is superb, have fun.
Ras