2018 KTM 500 EXC-F vs 2021 Husqvarna FX 450
Full specifications comparison •
2 motorcycles
Full Specifications
Differs
Same
| General |
| Year | 2017 - 18 | - |
| Colours | - | White/blue/yellow |
| Make Model | KTM 500 EXC-F | - |
| Dimensions |
| Ground Clearance (in.) | - | 14.6 inches |
| Ground Clearance (mm) | - | 370 mm |
| Seat Height | 960 mm . 37.7 in | 950 mm / 37.4 in. |
| Wheelbase | 1482 ± 10 mm | 1482 mm / 58.3 in. |
| Ground Clearance | 355 mm / 13.9 in | - |
| Weights & Capacities |
| Dry Weight | - | 101.3 kg / 223.3 lbs |
| Fuel Capacity | 8.5 Litres / 2.2 US gal / 1,9 Imp gal | 8.50 litres / 2.25 US gallons |
| Wet Weight | 106.5 kg / 234.7 lbs | - |
| Performance |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | - | 0.6219 HP/kg |
| Engine |
| Displacement (cc) | - | 449.9 cc |
| Engine Type | - | Single cylinder, four-stroke |
| Fuel Control | - | Single Overhead Cams (SOHC) |
| Bore x Stroke (mm) | - | 95.0 x 63.4 mm |
| Bore x Stroke (in,) | - | 3.7 x 2.5 inches |
| Displacement (ci) | - | 27.45 cubic inches |
| Displacement | 510.4 cc / 31.1 cu-in | - |
| Engine Detail | Four stroke, single cylinder, SOHC, 4 valves per cylinder | - |
| Fuel System | - | Carburettor. 44mm Keihin |
| Bore x Stroke | 95 x 72 mm | - |
| Compression Ratio | 11.9:1 | 11.8:1 |
| Cooling System | Liquid cooled | - |
| Fuel Induction | Keihin MX FCR 39 | - |
| Ignition | Contactless controlled fully electronic ignition with digital ignition adjustment, type Kokusan | Keihin EMS |
| Starter | Electric | Electric |
| Drivetrain |
| Clutch | Multidisc clutch in oil bath, hydraulically activated | Wet, DDS multi-disc clutch, Magura hydraulics |
| Final Drive | Chain 5/8 x 1/4" | Chain (final drive) |
| Final Drive Ratio | 13:50 | - |
| Gear Ratios | 1st 14:36 / 2nd 17:32 / 3rd 19:28 / 4th 22:26 / 5th 23:24 / 6th 26:21 | - |
| Gearbox | - | 5-speed |
| Primary Drive | - | X-Ring 5/8 x 1/4´ chain |
| Primary Drive Ratios | 32:76 | - |
| Transmission / Drive | 6 Speed | - |
| Chassis |
| Frame Type | Central double-cradle type 25CrMo4 | Central double-cradle-type 25CrMo4 steel |
| Suspension - Front | WP Performance Systems MXMA 4860 upside down | WP XACT-USD, Ø 48 mm |
| Suspension - Rear | WP Performance Systems 4618 PDS DCC | WP XACT Monoshock with linkage |
| Rake | - | 26.5° |
| Steering Head Angle | 63.5 | - |
| Wheel Travel - Front | 300 mm / 11.8 in | 310 mm / 12.2 in. |
| Wheel Travel - Rear | 310 mm / 12.2 in | 300 mm / 11.8 in. |
| Wheels & Brakes |
| Brakes - Front | Single 260 mm disc | Single disc |
| Brakes - Rear | Single 220 mm disc | Single disc |
| Tyres - Front | 90/90 - 21 | 90/90-21 |
| Tyres - Rear | 120/90 - 18 | - |
Verdict
🏆
Winner on specs
2018 KTM 500 EXC-F
The 2018 KTM 500 EXC-F edges out the 2021 Husqvarna FX 450 thanks to its liquid cooling. Specifications are one part of the picture - dealer support, parts availability, and intended use all matter too.
Key Differences
2018 KTM 500 EXC-F - Advantages
- 🌡️Liquid cooling: Consistent engine temperature in stop-start traffic and hot climates.
2021 Husqvarna FX 450 - Advantages
- ✓Competitive all-round: The 2021 Husqvarna FX 450 matches or exceeds its rival across all measured criteria.
2018 KTM 500 EXC-F vs 2021 Husqvarna FX 450 - FAQs
What are the engine differences between the 2018 KTM 500 EXC-F and 2021 Husqvarna FX 450?
The 2018 KTM 500 EXC-F uses Four stroke, single cylinder, SOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, while the 2021 Husqvarna FX 450 is powered by Single cylinder, four-stroke.
Which should I buy, the 2018 KTM 500 EXC-F or the 2021 Husqvarna FX 450?
Both are strong choices. The 2018 KTM 500 EXC-F has the edge in liquid cooling, while the 2021 Husqvarna FX 450 offers a compelling alternative. Visit dealers, arrange test rides, and factor in local parts and service costs - these often matter as much as the spec sheet.