Starting Off; Shifting, Riding; Applying The Brakes - KTM 450 SX-F 2018 Owner's Manual

8 RIDING INSTRUCTIONS
8.5

Starting off

–
Pull the clutch lever, engage 1st gear, release the clutch lever slowly and simultaneously open the throttle carefully.
8.6

Shifting, riding

Warning
Danger of accidents If you change down at high engine speed, the rear wheel blocks and the engine races.
–
Do not change into a low gear at high engine speed.
Info
If you hear unusual noises while riding, stop immediately, switch off the engine and contact an authorized KTM workshop.
First gear is used for starting off and for steep inclines.
–
Shift into a higher gear when conditions allow (incline, road situation, etc.). To do so, release the throttle while simultaneously
pulling the clutch lever, shift into the next gear, release the clutch lever and open the throttle.
–
If you pushed the cold start button while starting, open the throttle briefly and release the throttle grip or turn the throttle grip for-
ward.
The cold start button goes to the basic position.
–
After reaching maximum speed by fully opening the throttle grip, turn the throttle back so it is ¾ open. This will barely reduce the
speed but fuel consumption will be considerably lower.
– Always open the throttle only as much as the engine can handle – abrupt throttle opening increases fuel consumption.
–
To shift down, apply the brakes and close the throttle at the same time.
–
Pull the clutch lever and shift into a lower gear, release the clutch lever slowly, and either open the throttle or shift again.
–
Switch off the engine if running at idle or standing for a long time.
Guideline
≥ 1 min
–
Avoid frequent and longer slipping of the clutch. As a result the engine oil, engine and cooling system heat up.
–
Ride at a low engine speed instead of at a high engine speed with a slipping clutch.
8.7

Applying the brakes

Warning
Danger of accidents Excessively forceful application of the brakes blocks the wheels.
–
Adjust application of the brakes to the respective riding situation and riding surface conditions.
Warning
Danger of accidents A spongy pressure point on the front or rear brake reduces braking efficiency.
–
Check the brake system and do not continue riding until the problem is eliminated. (Your authorized KTM workshop will be
glad to help.)
Warning
Danger of accidents Moisture and dirt impair the brake system.
–
Brake carefully several times to dry out and remove dirt from the brake linings and the brake discs.
–
On sandy, wet or slippery surfaces, use the rear brake.
–
Press button TC to switch the traction control on or off.
Guideline
Engine speed
The TC LED lights up when the traction control is activated.
H01179-11
≤ 4,000 rpm
24