Image: Foremost Media.

KTM Motocross Racing Team’s Luke Clout has just taken possession of a 2019 KTM 450 SX-F in which he’ll pilot for the upcoming Australian Supercross Championship.

The ’19 model sees a host of changes and upgrades from its predecessor and was highly-rated in MotoOnline.com.au’s Review, which New South Welshman Clout has affirmed following his initial days aboard the premier class contender.

“The guys sorted me a ’19 model to go ride and get comfortable on,” Clout told MotoOnline.com.au. “Straightaway I felt comfortable on the bike – there are differences here and there, and overall I think it’s a really solid package. The way it feels, turns and handles is really positive. In the first couple of days of supercross I feel really comfortable.

“To me the biggest differences are the way to bike handles and how it actually feels – it feels a lot thinner towards the front near the tank and it seems to turn a lot sharper. For supercross it’s definitely beneficial for me being able to turn it better and grip the bike better.”

Finishing this year’s Pirelli MX Nationals third in the standings, Clout enters his favoured discipline of supercross as a serious title threat, believing he’ll be challenging for strong results all season long with capable equipment underneath him.

In addition, the number four has a number of resources at his finger tips, such as utilising team manager and multi-time champion Jay Marmont’s supercross track as he plots an assault at the SX1 crown.

“I went pretty well in the outdoors, but I think I’m a stronger rider in supercross especially when I’m on a good bike and I’m comfortable,” he continued. “We’re going to do a lot of testing, and I think I’m more naturally talented in supercross, so I think we’ll have some good results this year.”

The opening round of the Australian Supercross Championship is scheduled for 15 September at Jimboomba in Queensland.