Bikes 4 Oct 2024

Detailed: 2025 Triumph TF 450-RC Edition

Premier class entry introduced in collaboration with Ricky Carmichael.

Triumph Motorcycles has uncovered its first 450cc motocross bike in collaboration with Ricky Carmichael, the 2025 Triumph TF 450-RC Edition that it will release in production trim next year.

The colour design prominently incorporates Triumph’s ‘Performance Yellow’ with black and white accents. It also includes RC’s iconic number four, GOAT (Greatest of All Time) logo and key sponsor details, adding a personalized flair that reflects the spirit of the motocross legend.

Its single-cylinder, SOHC 450cc engine is built for racing, delivering robust power while minimising 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.

Triumph’s TF 450-RC has a five-speed gearbox – which has a quickshifter fitted as standard for clutchless upshifts from second to fifth gear – that ensures seamless power delivery for maximum focus on the track. Its three-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 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.

Cutting-edge engine management and an intake/exhaust system have been 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 customised by Ricky Carmichael to deliver the exact power and control he demands.

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, inclusive of the ODI RC4 Signature handlebars. The top engine mounts on the TF 450-RC were hand-picked by Ricky to enhance handling, especially under heavy front-end loads. This setting ensures the bike maintains optimal control and stability during even the most demanding rides.

The XTrig Holeshot Device gives riders the perfect start by pre-loading 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.

Its exhaust system 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 optimized 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 optimise the engine’s output. This system ensures that exhaust gases are efficiently expelled, minimising back pressure and enhancing engine performance, particularly at high RPMs.

The TF 450-RC features a unique aluminium chassis, designed to provide a perfect balance of performance, mass and flexibility – race-optimised for longitudinal, lateral, and torsional stiffness. The frame’s spine and twin cradle design offer exceptional strength while minimising weight, contributing to the bike’s overall agility and handling on the track. Hand TIG-welded craftsmanship ensures durability and precision in every detail.

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 optimised stiffness provides superior stability and responsiveness, giving riders the confidence to push the bike to its limits.

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 smooth, 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 pre-load settings.

The 2025 Triumph TF 450-RC features premium components, including Brembo braking calipers and levers provide precise, responsive braking, while Galfer discs offer durability and excellent heat dissipation. There are also D.I.D DirtStar rims paired with Dunlop Geomax MX34 tyres fitted.

Recent