To stand next to, maybe even stroke the seat of, a motorcycle engineered to be an uncompromising track demolisher is equal parts terrifying and exciting. If you want to do more than stroke the seat, if you want to call one of these machines yours, I don't think much compares to KTM's 450 SMR, pound for pound.
Back in 2023, the 450 SMR received a fairly significant overhaul, including a new SX-derived frame, revised subframe, revised engine internals, and a host of rider aids and assists. Then, in 2025, KTM gave the 450 SMR a fairly substantial update in the form of a lighter frame and a WP XACT Closed Cartridge spring fork. For 2026, the 450 SMR received some minor updates, helping it meet the FIM's 109 dB noise limit.