KTM 450 SX-F 2017 User Manual (English)

Questions and Answers:

A
Alexa LopezJul 27, 2025
What to do if my KTM 450 SX-F 2017 engine does not turn when the starter button is pressed?
- T
  Thomas CampbellJul 28, 2025
  If the KTM Motorcycle engine doesn't turn when you press the starter, it could be due to several reasons. First, ensure you are following the correct start procedure. If that's not the issue, check if the battery is discharged and recharge it if necessary, verifying the charging voltage and open-circuit current, and inspecting the alternator's stator winding. Also, inspect the main fuse and replace it if blown. Finally, the starter relay or the starter motor itself could be defective and need to be checked.
C
christopher83Aug 2, 2025
What to do if KTM 450 SX-F 2017 Motorcycle engine turns but does not start?
- B
  Brenda BarnesAug 3, 2025
  If your KTM Motorcycle engine turns over but doesn't start, check the following: ensure the fuel hose connection is properly connected. Examine the fuel screen in the fuel hose connection for clogs. Also, ensure the idle speed is correctly set. Inspect the spark plug; clean and dry it if oily or wet, or replace it if needed. Adjust the spark plug gap to the recommended 0.8 mm (0.031 in). Check the wiring harness for frayed short circuit cables and inspect the kill switch. Finally, a defect in the fuel injection system could be the cause.
R
Robert LopezAug 8, 2025
Why does my KTM Motorcycle engine overheat?
- C
  Christopher JonesAug 8, 2025
  Your KTM Motorcycle engine might be overheating due to several reasons. Check the coolant level in the cooling system and inspect for any leaks. Ensure there's sufficient airflow, and switch off the engine when stationary. Clean any dirt from the radiator fins. If there's foam in the cooling system, drain and refill the coolant. Also, inspect the radiator hose for bends and replace if necessary.
D
Darryl SmithAug 14, 2025
Why is the malfunction indicator lamp on my KTM 450 SX-F 2017 lighting up?
- C
  carolyn86Aug 15, 2025
  If the malfunction indicator lamp is lighting up or flashing on your KTM Motorcycle, it could indicate a defect in the fuel injection system. Stop the motorcycle and use the blink code to identify the faulty part. Inspect the cabling for damage and check the electrical plug-in connections for corrosion and damage. Also, check if the engine vent hose is bent, and ensure the engine oil level isn't too high or too thin (low viscosity). If the oil is too thin, change the engine oil and oil filter and clean the oil screens.
L
lawrence31Aug 21, 2025
What to do if my KTM 450 SX-F 2017 Motorcycle engine has too little power?
- M
  Mark HerreraAug 21, 2025
  If your KTM Motorcycle engine has too little power, start by cleaning the air filter and air filter box. Then, change the fuel filter. Check the exhaust system for leaks or deformation, and replace the glass fiber yarn filling in the main silencer if it's insufficient. Also, check if the valve clearance is too little and adjust it if needed. Finally, a defect in the fuel injection system could be the cause.

KTM 450 SX-F 2017 Specifications

General

Displacement	449.9 cc
Bore x Stroke	95 mm x 63.4 mm
Starter	Electric starter
Transmission	5-speed
Ground Clearance	370 mm
Seat Height	960 mm
Compression Ratio	12.75:1
Fuel System	Keihin EFI, throttle body 44 mm
Ignition	Keihin EMS
Engine Type	Single cylinder, 4-stroke
Frame	Central double-cradle type 25CrMo4 steel
Front Brake	Disc brake, Ø 260 mm
Rear Brake	Disc brake, Ø 220 mm
Fuel Capacity	7 liters
Wheelbase	1, 485 mm
Front Suspension	WP USD, Ø 48 mm

Summary

1 Means of Representation

1.1 Symbols Used

Explains the meaning of various symbols used in the manual for clarity.

1.2 Formats Used

Details the typographical formats and their meanings within the document.

2 Safety Advice

2.1 Use Definition - Intended Use

Defines the intended usage for different motorcycle models.

2.2 Safety Advice

General safety instructions and precautions for motorcycle operation.

2.3 Degrees of Risk and Symbols

Explains hazard levels and associated symbols for safety warnings.

2.5 Safe Operation

Provides guidelines for safe operation, including rider condition and environment.

2.6 Protective Clothing

Emphasizes the importance of wearing appropriate protective gear.

2.9 Owner's Manual

Stresses the importance of reading and retaining the owner's manual.

3 Important Notes

3.1 Manufacturer and Implied Warranty

Details warranty coverage and conditions for maintaining it.

3.2 Operating and Auxiliary Substances

Advises on the proper use of fuel, lubricants, and other substances.

3.4 Service

Highlights the importance of regular service for optimal operation.

4 View of Vehicle

4.1 View of Vehicle, Front Left (Example)

Illustrates and labels key components from the front left view.

4.2 View of Vehicle, Rear Right (Example)

Illustrates and labels key components from the rear right view.

5 Serial Numbers

5.1 Chassis Number

Explains the location of the chassis number on the vehicle.

5.3 Engine Number

Specifies where to find the engine number on the motorcycle.

6 Controls

6.1 Clutch Lever

Describes the clutch lever and its operation.

6.4 Kill Switch

Explains the kill switch positions and their effects.

6.6 Combination Switch

Details the combination switch functions, including mapping and controls.

6.9 Opening the Filler Cap

Provides instructions and safety warnings for opening the fuel filler cap.

6.11 Cold Start Button

Explains the function and operation of the cold start button.

7 Preparing for Use

7.1 Advice on First Use

Offers crucial advice for initial use, including safety and controls familiarization.

7.2 Running in the Engine

Provides guidelines for the engine break-in period.

7.4 Preparing the Vehicle for Difficult Riding Conditions

Details preparations for riding in challenging conditions like sand or mud.

7.5 Preparing for Rides on Dry Sand

Specific preparations for riding on dry sandy terrain.

8 Riding Instructions

8.1 Checks and Maintenance Measures When Preparing for Use

Lists essential pre-ride checks and maintenance tasks for safe operation.

8.2 Starting

Provides instructions and safety warnings for starting the engine.

8.3 Activating Launch Control

Explains how to activate Launch Control for optimal race starts.

8.6 Shifting, Riding

Provides instructions for shifting gears and general riding techniques.

8.7 Applying the Brakes

Details proper brake application techniques and warnings.

8.10 Refueling

Instructions and safety precautions for refueling the motorcycle.

9 Service Schedule

9.2 Required Work

Lists maintenance tasks required at specific operating hour intervals.

9.3 Recommended Work

Outlines recommended maintenance tasks for optimal performance.

10 Tuning the Chassis

10.1 Checking the Basic Chassis Setting with the Rider's Weight

Explains how to adjust chassis settings based on rider weight.

10.3 Compression Damping of the Shock Absorber

Introduces compression damping for the shock absorber.

10.4 Adjusting the Low-Speed Compression Damping of the Shock Absorber

Details how to adjust the low-speed compression damping.

10.6 Adjusting the Rebound Damping of the Shock Absorber

Provides instructions for adjusting the shock absorber's rebound damping.

10.8 Checking the Static Sag of the Shock Absorber

Explains how to check the static sag of the rear shock absorber.

10.9 Checking the Riding Sag of the Shock Absorber

Details the process for checking the riding sag of the shock absorber.

10.10 Adjusting the Spring Pretension of the Shock Absorber

Guides on adjusting the spring preload of the shock absorber.

10.13 Adjusting the Fork Air Pressure

Details how to adjust the air pressure in the front fork.

10.14 Adjusting the Compression Damping of the Fork

Explains how to adjust the fork's compression damping.

10.17 Adjusting the Handlebar Position

Step-by-step guide to adjusting the handlebar position.

11 Service Work on the Chassis

11.3 Bleeding the Fork Legs

Explains how to bleed air from the front fork legs.

11.7 Removing the Fork Legs

Procedure for removing the front fork legs.

11.11 Checking the Steering Head Bearing Play

How to check for play in the steering head bearing.

11.12 Adjusting the Steering Head Bearing Play

Procedure for adjusting steering head bearing play.

11.18 Removing the Shock Absorber

Steps for removing the rear shock absorber.

11.24 Removing the Air Filter

Procedure for removing the air filter element.

11.25 Cleaning the Air Filter and Air Filter Box

Instructions for cleaning the air filter and its box.

11.29 Removing the Main Silencer

Steps for removing the main exhaust silencer.

11.32 Removing the Fuel Tank

Steps for safely removing the fuel tank.

11.36 Checking the Chain Tension

How to check and measure the drive chain tension.

11.37 Adjusting the Chain Tension

Procedure for adjusting the drive chain tension.

11.43 Adjusting the Basic Position of the Clutch Lever

Adjusting the clutch lever position for rider comfort.

11.44 Checking/Correcting the Fluid Level of the Hydraulic Clutch

How to check and correct the hydraulic clutch fluid level.

12 Brake System

12.1 Checking the Free Travel of the Hand Brake Lever

How to check and set the free travel of the front brake lever.

12.3 Checking the Brake Discs

How to check the thickness and condition of brake discs.

12.4 Checking the Brake Fluid Level of the Front Brake

How to check the front brake fluid level.

12.7 Changing the Front Brake Linings

Procedure for changing the front brake linings.

12.9 Adjusting the Basic Position of the Foot Brake Lever

How to adjust the foot brake lever position.

12.10 Checking the Rear Brake Fluid Level

How to check the rear brake fluid level.

12.13 Changing the Rear Brake Linings

Procedure for changing the rear brake linings.

13 Wheels, Tires

13.1 Removing the Front Wheel

Steps for safely removing the front wheel.

13.2 Installing the Front Wheel

Steps for safely installing the front wheel.

13.3 Removing the Rear Wheel

Steps for safely removing the rear wheel.

13.5 Checking the Tire Condition

How to check tires for wear, damage, and age.

13.6 Checking the Tire Air Pressure

How to check and correct tire air pressure.

13.7 Checking Spoke Tension

How to check and correct spoke tension.

14 Electrical System

14.1 Warning

Safety warnings related to handling and charging batteries.

14.3 Recharging the Battery

Instructions for recharging the motorcycle battery.

14.4 Changing the Main Fuse

Procedure for replacing the main fuse.

15 Cooling System

15.2 Checking the Antifreeze and Coolant Level

How to check antifreeze and coolant levels.

15.3 Checking the Coolant Level

Detailed procedure for checking the coolant level in the radiator.

15.5 Refilling Coolant

Procedure for refilling the cooling system with coolant.

16 Tuning the Engine

16.1 Checking the Play in the Throttle Cable

How to check and measure throttle cable play.

16.3 Setting the Characteristic Map of the Throttle Response

How to change the throttle response map using guide plates.

16.4 Changing the Mapping

Instructions for changing engine mapping modes.

16.7 Checking the Basic Position of the Shift Lever

How to check the shift lever's basic position relative to the boot.

17 Service Work on the Engine

17.1 Changing the Fuel Screen

Steps for changing the fuel filter screen.

17.2 Checking the Engine Oil Level

How to check the engine oil level when cold or warm.

17.3 Changing the Engine Oil and Oil Filter, Cleaning the Oil Screens

Complete procedure for oil and filter change and cleaning screens.

18 Cleaning, Care

18.1 Cleaning the Motorcycle

Detailed instructions for cleaning the motorcycle safely and effectively.

19 Storage

19.1 Storage

Steps and advice for storing the motorcycle for extended periods.

19.2 Preparing for Use After Storage

Procedures for preparing the motorcycle after it has been stored.

20 Troubleshooting

Engine Does Not Turn When the Starter Button Is Pressed

Identifies causes and actions for starter issues.

Engine Turns But Does Not Start

Troubleshooting steps for when the engine cranks but doesn't start.

Engine Has Too Little Power

Diagnosing and fixing issues causing low engine power.

Engine Overheats

Causes and fixes for engine overheating.

Malfunction Indicator Lamp Lights Up or Flashes

Interpreting and addressing malfunction indicator lamp warnings.

21 Technical Data

21.1 Engine

Detailed specifications of the motorcycle's engine.

21.2 Engine Tightening Torques

Lists specified torque values for engine fasteners.

21.4 Chassis

Technical data related to the motorcycle's chassis components.

21.7 Fork

Technical data for the front fork suspension.

21.7.1 SX-F EU

Specific fork settings for the SX-F EU model.

21.8 Shock Absorber

Technical data for the rear shock absorber.

21.8.1 SX-F EU

Specific shock absorber settings for the SX-F EU model.

21.9 Chassis Tightening Torques

Lists specified torque values for chassis fasteners.

22 Substances

Brake Fluid DOT 4 / DOT 5.1

Specifications and recommendations for brake fluid.

Coolant

Guidelines for using and maintaining coolant.

Engine Oil (SAE 10W/50)

Specifications and recommendations for engine oil.

Super Unleaded (ROZ 95/RON 95/PON 91)

Fuel grade specifications and usage guidelines.

23 Auxiliary Substances

Air Filter Cleaner

Recommended cleaner for the air filter.

Chain Cleaner

Recommended cleaner for the drive chain.

Fuel Additive

Recommended fuel additive for storage.

Motorcycle Cleaner

Recommended cleaner for the motorcycle.

Preserving Materials for Paints, Metal and Rubber

Recommended products for protecting surfaces.

Special Cleaner for Glossy and Matte Paint Finishes, Metal and Plastic Surfaces

Recommended cleaner for various finishes.

Universal Oil Spray

Recommended universal oil spray.

24 Standards

JASO T903 MA

Explanation of the JASO T903 MA standard for motorcycle oils.

SAE

Explanation of SAE viscosity classification for oils.

27 List of Symbols

27.1 Yellow and Orange Symbols

Explains the meaning of yellow and orange warning symbols.

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