Kove Moto has introduced a new and improved dirt bike, the 450 Rally EX, ahead of the Dakar rally. The previous edition of the Dakar saw Kove enter the competition with three 450 Rally Pro bikes, marking the first time a Chinese manufacturer participated in the motorcycle division. Kove’s CEO, Zhang Xue, expressed a desire for the team to finish the race, and all three bikes did so successfully.
Now, Kove is gearing up for the next Dakar edition with a goal to win. The newly unveiled 450 Rally EX is an upgraded version, featuring enhancements for better performance. The bike boasts a more powerful and lighter design compared to its predecessor. It is equipped with a new liquid-cooled DOHC 449.9cc single engine that delivers 65 hp and 36.14 ft-lbs of torque, outperforming the previous model with 54 hp and 31 ft-lbs of torque.
The improved power is attributed to innovations in the engine, including a larger bore and quicker stroke. The drivetrain incorporates advanced applications and lightweight materials, featuring a unique cylinder head design with a unified rocker arm. The bike is designed for better handling and stability, with an increased fuel capacity of 8.98 gallons distributed across three tanks.
In terms of suspension, the 450 Rally EX is equipped with a fully adjustable 49mm USD fork and a progressive link mono-shock, providing 12 inches of travel in the front and 11.8 inches in the rear. The bike features a 21/18-inch wheelset, with braking handled by a floating single, 2-piston caliper front disc and a single-piston rear disc.
Kove has announced that a limited production run of 50 units of the Dakar-spec EX will be available for consumers and privateers. The factory race bike, which will be used by Kove’s pro riders in the upcoming Dakar, is priced at €19,999. This limited-edition model offers a more affordable option compared to competing replica models from KTM and Husqvarna.
For those who prefer more budget-friendly options, Kove will continue offering the existing Kove 450R Rally and the Rally Pro in 2024 at the same pricing – $8,999 and $13,999, respectively. The introduction of the 450 Rally EX showcases Kove’s commitment to pushing the boundaries in off-road racing and providing enthusiasts with high-performance dirt bikes.
