Newsletter Sign Up
MotoUSA Magazine
Popular Searches
HOME
STREET BIKE
SPORTBIKE
CRUISER
DIRT BIKE
ATV
SCOOTER
Motorcycle Reviews
Gear Reviews
Motorcycle Racing
Features
Videos
Photos
Buyer's Guide
Dealer Locator
Forums
Behind David Knight's 450XC Photo Gallery
Behind David Knight's 450XC - Shawn Mundy may have the toughest mechanic's job in motorcycle off-road racing.
Knight is a giant. He really does throw his 450 around like it was a 125.
When Mundy does his part, Knight usually holds up his end of the deal with results like this.
Most GNCC riders chose a 2-stoke due to fatigue after 3 hours of riding. Knight is fine with a 450.
Mundy was tapped to work with Knight once he made the switch to full-time American racing.
The Twin Air filter pin is safety-wired, and extra foam to keep dust out.
Holes in the engine guard for cooling.
Fluidyne makes thicker radiators to keep things cool.
Safety wire on footpegs.
Mundy and Knight check all the details before a 3-hour race.
Brembo takes care of the braking duties. Not only do they have to be strong, but they can't fade over the grueling race.
The rear master cylinder is one of the tricker works parts. It has tolerances machined so tight that it doesn't require any seals.
That wheel has to be tough enough to take a serious pounding for three hours and not fail. Mundy relies on Talon's carbon fiber hub.
FMF pipes are found on a lot of factory bikes, Knight's included.
David likes a little more bite to his motor than the stock XC provides, but other than a SX-style ignition curve, the 450cc engine is relatively stock.
Larger gas tank by IMS.
KTM racing has a deal with Motorex to keep their engines well lubricated.
Knight uses a massive 52mm WP fork.
Riding under the Factory KTM tent is about as high-status as you'll find in off-road racing.
