KTM

KTM 450 Rally Replica 2027: the replica of the bike that won the last Dakar Rally

The new KTM 450 Rally Replica will be available from July 2026 in a strictly limited series of just over one hundred units. This motorcycle represents the ultimate technical evolution after the brand's victory in the 2016 Dakar Rally.

At the heart of this model is its relentless 450cc SOHC fuel-injected engine, designed to withstand the most extreme conditions, supported by a six-speed gearbox with rally-specific ratios, a Brembo hydraulic clutch, and a titanium Akrapovič exhaust system that optimizes power delivery and reduces overall weight.

The chassis uses a structure of laser-cut and hand-welded steel tubes. They offer an optimal balance between longitudinal flexibility and torsional stability, something vital when navigating at high speed on uneven terrain.

In addition, it features a fully adjustable WP PRO suspension system, allowing for precise tuning for each type of terrain. Functionality is enhanced by its carbon fiber navigation tower, a powerful Brembo braking system, and a large 34.5-liter fuel capacity distributed across three independent tanks, guaranteeing the necessary range for long stages.

Aesthetically, the 2027 model brings back KTM's iconic traditional orange color, reaffirming its visual identity.

However, the crown jewel of this launch is the exclusive KTM 450 Rally Replica Luciano Benavides Factory Edition. Limited to only eight units worldwide, this version commemorates the Argentine rider's victory in the last Dakar Rally with a full Red Bull KTM paint job and official components, such as carbon fiber disc and tank protectors, a numbered plaque, and the Selle Dalla Valle racing seat.

The 450cc single-cylinder engine with electronic fuel injection and single overhead camshaft (SOHC) shares its architecture with the engine of the brand's larger-displacement SX-F model. It works in conjunction with a six-speed gearbox and Brembo hydraulic clutch with specific rally ratios. The exhaust is an Akrapovič titanium exhaust, directly contributing to the lightness of the assembly.

The chassis abandons the double cradle configuration used in KTM's enduro and motocross bikes. Instead, a hydroformed trellis arrangement is used, laser-cut and hand-welded, developed to balance longitudinal and torsional rigidity on long sand and rock stages.

The fully adjustable WP suspension, borrowed from the brand's Pro catalog, delivers 304 mm of front travel and 280 mm of rear travel. The fuel capacity, distributed in three tanks operated independently by the rider, totals 34.5 liters. A carbon fiber navigation tower houses the digital roadbook and LED lighting.

A machine built for the Dakar...The 450 Rally Replica isn't a weekend trail adventurer. It's a functional replica of the factory bike ridden by names like Luciano Benavides and Daniel Sanders in the World Rally Championship. The model has accumulated 12 victories in the last 21 editions of the Dakar Rally and 250 stage wins throughout its competitive history.

With few changes compared to the previous model, KTM is betting on the consistency of a tried-and-tested, winning package. For private riders aiming for the Rallye du Maroc, the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge, or the Dakar itself, the 450 Rally Replica remains one of the only options available on the market built specifically for this purpose.

What truly sets this edition apart is the unparalleled VIP experience it offers: the eight owners will receive their motorcycles from the champion himself, Luciano Benavides, during the KTM Adventure Rally in Italy, and will also have access to technical assistance from the official racing team during the event.

A motorcycle born from Dakar victories...The new generation of the Rally Replica carries a heavy history. The model is a direct result of the development of the motorcycles that have achieved recent victories in the Dakar Rally, including the 2026 edition. Since 2020, the technical base of the platform has taken different riders to the top of the podium, reinforcing the brand's dominance in rally raids.

More than inspiration, it's a real transfer of technology. In this sense, KTM states that components, adjustments, and solutions come directly from the tracks to the production model.

At the heart of the machine is a 450cc single-cylinder engine with electronic fuel injection and a six-speed gearbox. It was designed to offer consistent performance in long-distance races. The assembly also features a Brembo hydraulic clutch with rally-specific ratios and an Akrapovič titanium exhaust, focused on reducing weight and maximizing efficiency.

The chassis follows the same racing philosophy, with a lightweight and resistant structure. The fully adjustable WP suspension guarantees generous travel. In other words, an essential feature for absorbing impacts at high speeds off-road.

One of the highlights is the three-tank fuel system, which together hold approximately 34.5 liters. That is, guaranteeing great autonomy for long stages, exactly as required by the Dakar Rally.

Another key element is the carbon fiber navigation tower, equipped to receive a digital roadbook and LED lighting, creating a functional cockpit geared towards navigation in extreme environments.

KTM will make clear the exclusive nature of the model: just over 100 units will be produced globally.

In addition, there will be an even rarer version, linked to the 2026 champion, Luciano Benavides. It will have only eight units and a special package, including a VIP experience with the official KTM team. In short, reinforcing the direct link between customer and competition.

Proposal: racing for the few...The KTM 450 Rally Replica 2027 is not an ordinary motorcycle — neither in its purpose nor in its availability. This is a machine practically ready for competition, designed for experienced riders or enthusiasts seeking the highest level of off-road performance.

In practice, it's the closest anyone can get to riding a real Dakar motorcycle outside of the official stages—and that says it all.

With this proposition, KTM is not only selling a cutting-edge motorcycle, but also direct access to an elite racing ecosystem, demonstrating that the term "Replica" is, in this case, a true transfer of winning technology.

Autonews