Triumph launch TF450-RC motocrosser
Words and images courtesy Triumph Racing
Triumph have launched its first ever 450cc machine, designed in collaboration with supercross and motocross racing legend Ricky Carmichael.
The TF 450-RC Edition features the strongest power to weight ratio in its class, with a competition motocross powertrain that is compact, mass-optimised and built to take the holeshot. Engineering, design and equipment working in harmony for class leading power, control, and flexibility.
UK pricing is £10,695 and the bike will be for sale in specialised motocross and enduro Triumph dealers from February 2025.
The All-New Triumph TF 450-RC Edition celebrates Ricky Carmichael’s involvement throughout Triumph’s motocross programme, and features Ricky Carmichael’s chosen specification and signature graphics.
Developed by world-leading Triumph engineers and Motocross Champions, the TF 450-RC Edition features the strongest power-to-weight ratio in its class. Its powertrain is compact, mass-optimised and built to take the holeshot. Engineering, design and equipment working in harmony for class leading power, control, and flexibility.
The colour design prominently incorporates Triumph’s ‘Performance Yellow’ with black and white accents. It also includes RC’s iconic number 4, GOAT logo and key sponsor details, adding a personalised flair that reflects the spirit of this motocross legend. This design is carried across number boards, swingarm decals, and other visual elements, reinforcing the bike’s unique identity.
Triumph’s Chief Product Officer Steve Sargent said: “At the end of 2023, Triumph revealed the long-awaited TF 250-X – the first in an all-new range of off-road motorcycles. We now have a brand new 450cc competition motocross powertrain, which Ricky Carmichael, who is without doubt the very best in the business, has worked with us to develop. The TF 450-RC Edition offers a balance of power, precision and durability that sets a new standard in the 450cc motocross class. It seems only right that the first edition should have Ricky’s name on it.”
POWER DELIVERY
The TF 450-RC’s single-cylinder, SOHC 450cc engine is built for racing, delivering robust power while minimizing weight giving a power-to-weight ratio that leads the class.
At the core of this engine are top-tier components, including a Konig-forged aluminium piston, which provides strength and durability at high speeds, and DelWest titanium valves for improved airflow and faster actuation. The TF 450-RC’s 5-speed gearbox, with a quickshifter fitted as standard for clutchless upshifts from 2nd to 5th gear, ensures seamless power delivery for maximum focus on the track.
The 450cc engine’s combustion chamber is fully machined for optimal airflow and efficiency. The 3-axis machined combustion chamber and ports ensure precise geometry for peak performance, while diamond-like carbon (DLC) coated rockers reduce friction, improving the engine’s efficiency and longevity.
The TF 450-RC’s 450 airbox and intake system ensures that the engine gets a consistent, high volume of air, which is critical for performance and efficiency. The intake system is paired with an air filter by TwinAir, known for its durability and filtration efficiency. The tool-free filter access makes it easy to maintain the bike in rugged conditions, ensuring optimal airflow at all times.
The TF 450-RC is equipped with a cutting-edge engine management and intake/exhaust system designed to deliver exceptional performance and control. At its core, the bike features a Dellorto throttle body integrated with an Athena engine management system, ensuring precise fuel delivery and throttle response. This system allows riders to fine-tune parameters like traction control and launch control via the MX Tune Pro smartphone app, offering adaptable performance for varying track conditions.
The TF 450-RC features selectable engine maps, including a unique map customized by Ricky Carmichael to deliver the exact power and control he demands.
BUILT TO WIN
With its narrow profile, the 450cc engine has improved ergonomics that allow riders more control and comfort. It is housed in light magnesium covers for further weight reduction. The high-capacity clutch features a steel basket and plates designed to handle the demands of racing, ensuring durability during intense use. The hydraulic clutch actuation, with Brembo master and slave cylinders, ensures smooth and consistent clutch control.
Precision, control and durability are at the forefront of the TF 450-RC’s design, especially with the inclusion of the ODI RC4 Signature handlebars. Made from triple-butted, tapered wall tubing, these bars are designed to deliver a perfect balance of strength and flex. Constructed from seamless 2014-T6 alloy and hard-anodized for enhanced durability, the bars feature oversized clamps and half-waffle ODI lock-on grips, ensuring excellent rider comfort, vibration dampening, and impact resistance.
The top engine mounts on the TF 450-RC were hand-picked by Ricky to enhance handling, especially under heavy front-end loads. This setup ensures the bike maintains optimal control and stability during even the most demanding rides.
The XTrig Holeshot Device gives riders the perfect start by preloading the front suspension, lowering the centre of gravity and reducing front wheel lift for quicker acceleration. The bike is also equipped as standard with a Triumph Racing Hinson clutch cover, a front disc guard to deflect debris and impacts, and a gripper seat cover to reduce slipping and enhance rider control. These premium components elevate the TF 450-RC’s overall performance and reliability.
EXHAUST SYSTEM
The exhaust system of the TF 450-RC is designed to complement its high-performance engine. The standard model features a lightweight stainless-steel exhaust with an integrated resonator to improve cylinder evacuation, and hydroformed components for optimised routing and high gas flow.
For riders looking for an even higher level of performance, an Akrapovic titanium exhaust is available as an accessory, with a dedicated engine map to optimize the engine’s output. This system ensures that exhaust gases are efficiently expelled, minimizing backpressure and enhancing engine performance, particularly at high RPMs.
ADVANCED ALUMINIUM CHASSIS
The TF 450-RC features a unique aluminium chassis, designed to provide a perfect balance of performance, mass and flexibility. The frame’s spine and twin cradle design offer exceptional strength while minimizing weight, contributing to the bike’s overall agility and handling on the track. Hand TIG-welded craftsmanship ensures durability and precision in every detail.
The chassis has been race-optimized for longitudinal, lateral, and torsional stiffness, ensuring the best performance under extreme conditions. This allows for exceptional handling and provides the rider with precise feedback and control during intense riding. The result is a chassis that delivers top-tier performance and reliability, tailored for competitive racing.
The light and nimble aluminium chassis of the TF 450-RC plays a crucial role in achieving its class-leading power-to-weight ratio. By minimizing the overall weight of the bike, the chassis allows the powerful 450cc engine to deliver exceptional acceleration and performance. This combination of a high-performance engine and a lightweight frame gives riders unmatched agility, control, and speed, making the TF 450-RC a top contender in its class.
Key design elements, including new upper and lower aluminium triple clamps, and dedicated top end mounts, are engineered to handle the increased power and loads. This optimized stiffness provides superior stability and responsiveness, giving riders the confidence to push the bike to its limits.
The KYB AOS coil suspension on the TF 450-RC is designed for superior shock absorption and handling. Featuring an Air-Oil Separation (AOS) system, this suspension ensures smoother, more consistent damping by preventing oil aeration, which results in more precise control and stability across various terrains. Paired with this is the three-way piggyback shock, which allows for fine-tuning of compression, rebound, and preload settings. This ensures that the suspension can be fully customized to the rider’s preferences and track conditions, providing enhanced handling, traction, and comfort, especially during high-speed and demanding motocross events.
CONFIDENCE AND CONTROL
The TF 450-RC features premium braking components for maximum control. Brembo calipers and levers provide precise, responsive braking, while Galfer discs offer durability and excellent heat dissipation. This combination ensures smooth, reliable braking performance, even under heavy use, giving riders confidence and control in all racing conditions.
The TF 450-RC features D.I.D DirtStar rims, providing excellent impact resistance and stability in tough motocross conditions. Paired with Dunlop Geomax MX34 tyres, which offer superior traction and control, this setup ensures optimal grip and performance across various surfaces. With Progressive Cornering Block Technology (PCBT) and advanced mud evacuation, these tyres provide a consistent performance even in challenging conditions. Together, the wheels, tyres and technology deliver exceptional handling, stability, and control on any track.
EXTRA EQUIPMENT AND ACCESSORIES
The TF 450-RC is built for durability and performance, ensuring riders can keep racing with minimal downtime. With premium components, Triumph’s renowned quality, and world-class support, the bike is designed to be reliable in the toughest conditions. A new network of specialist dealers and a 24/7 parts supply system provide quick access to servicing and parts, keeping riders on the track with minimal interruptions.
Riders can also use the 24/7 parts supply system to add specialist equipment and accessories to their TF 450-RC Edition, ranging from an Akrapovic titanium exhaust with dedicated engine map, to WiFi module kit, and from air filter covers to a Gripper seat.
ON THE TRACK
The new TF 450-RC will be available from £10,695. Customers can find out more at triumphmotorcycles.co.uk.
Bikes will be arriving in Triumph’s specialist Motocross & Enduro dealerships from February 2025.
SPECIFICATION – TF 450-RC
ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION
Type Single Cylinder 4-Stroke SOHC
Capacity 449.5 cc
Bore 95 mm
Stroke 63.4 mm
Compression 13.1:1
Fuel System Dellorto Throttle Body, Athena EMS
Exhaust Single Silencer
Final Drive Chain, 13/48
Clutch Steel Wet Multi-Plate Belleville Spring, Hydraulic Actuation
Gearbox 5 Speed
CHASSIS
Frame Aluminium, Spine
Swingarm Aluminium Fabrication
Front Wheel 21″ x 1.6″
Rear Wheel 19″ x 2.15″
Front Tyre 80/100 – 21
Rear Tyre 110/90 – 19
Front Suspension KYB 48mm Coil Spring Fork, Compression/Rebound Adjustment, 310mm Travel
Rear Suspension KYB Coil, Compression Adjustment (H and L Speed), Rebound Adjustment, 305mm Travel
Front Brakes Brembo Twin 24mm Piston, 260mm Disc
Rear Brakes Brembo Single 26mm Piston, 220mm Disc
Instruments Hour Meter, Multifunction Switch Cubes
DIMENSIONS & WEIGHTS
Width (Handlebars) 836 mm
Height 1270 mm
Seat Height 960 mm
Wheelbase 1492 mm
Rake 27.4 º
Trail 116 mm
Wet weight 108.6 kg
Fuel Tank Capacity 7 litres
ABOUT TRIUMPH RACING
* Triumph has a glorious racing history, competing in and winning races in almost every class and field of motorcycle sporting achievement. From winning the second ever Isle of Man TT in 1908, through to 1960s road and track success in Europe and America, right up to contemporary racing achievements with the Triumph triple powered 2014 and 2015 SuperSport titles and World SuperSport racing, Isle of Man SuperSport TT wins in 2014 and 2019, courtesy of Gary Johnson and Peter Hickman, plus an average speed of over 130mph 2023 by Peter Hickman on his Triumph STR765, and a thrilling last-lap victory at the legendary Daytona 200 by Brandon Paasch on the Street Triple 765 in 2022.
* Triumph’s racing legend continues as the exclusive engine supplier to the FIM Moto2™ World Championship since the start of the 2019 season. Triumph Motorcycles provides all the teams with race-tuned 765cc triples, each of which is based on the class-leading Street Triple RS powerplant. Redefining the class, Triumph broke record after record in the inaugural year, including the first ever +300km/h Moto2™ top speed. Reflecting these great successes, the wonderful feedback, and partnerships that Triumph have had with the riders and their teams, and the incredible response from Triumph fans across the world, Triumph and Dorna, decided to extend the relationship in 2021 and again in 2023, signing a new contract for another five years of racing: 2025 – 2029.
* Thierry Chizat-Suzzoni, one of MX’s most experienced and successful team owners, fields two of Triumph’s all-new 250cc 4-stroke MX bikes in the 2024 MX2 class and will add an entry into the 450cc MXGP class in 2025. Team Principal Bobby Hewitt and Team Manager Stephen ‘Scuba’ Westfall field the all-new Triumph 250cc 4-stroke MX bikes in the 2024 Supermotocross World Championship, which is comprised of the Monster Energy Supercross World Championship, and the Pro Motocross Championship, with three season-ending Supermotocross rounds. For the 2025 season Triumph will additionally field its new 450cc bike in the Supermotocross World Championship.
* In September 2024, Triumph Racing announced it will compete in the 2025 FIM SuperEnduro and EnduroGP World Championships, as well as the AMA EnduroCross series, together with other select events throughout the racing season. One of the most well-known figures in off-road motorcycling, Paul Edmondson, will head up the Triumph Racing factory enduro programme, which will see the brand represented at the highest levels of enduro competition worldwide.