HUSQVARNA FC 450 2025

ENGINE

The FC 450 engine benefits from advanced engineering techniques to deliver maximum performance. Low in weight and weighing just 59 lb (26.8 kg), the engine is designed to centralize mass for enhanced handling and significantly improves anti-squat behavior from the chassis. Servicing of the FC 450 engine is made easier compared to previous models thanks to the addition of service markers on the engine cases.

CYLINDER HEAD

The SOHC cylinder head is incredibly compact with the camshaft positioned as close to the centre of gravity as possible for unrivalled handling and agility. A durable, fine-punched cam chain runs on low-friction chain guides for optimal efficiency and reliability with a single oil spray jet ensuring effective cooling. The lightweight valves are actuated via a rocker arm and feature timing specifically designed to deliver precise levels of torque and throttle response.

CYLINDER AND PISTON

The lightweight aluminium cylinder is undoubtedly an engineering masterpiece and features a 95 mm bore with a 63.4 mm stroke. Inside, the CP bridged-box-type piston features anodised annular grooves, adding durability and longer service intervals at a weight of just 327 g. Delivering best-in-class performance, the compression ratio is 13.6:1 for incredible peak power and ensures the FC 450 remains firmly at the front of the pack.

CRANKSHAFT

The crankshaft is specifically positioned to harness the rotating mass in the ideal centre of gravity, which creates a lightweight and agile handling feel. As such, the inertia produced by the crankshaft is carefully calculated to deliver optimal traction and rideability from the powerful 450 cc engine. A plain big end bearing comprising two force-fitted bearing shells ensure maximum reliability and durability, guaranteeing long service intervals of 90 hours.

CRANKCASES

Designed for optimised mass centralisation, the FC 450 crankcases arrange the shafts and engine internals in the perfect position to achieve the best possible handling. Manufactured using a high-pressure die-cast production process, the result is a thin, exceptionally strong wall thickness at the lowest possible weight.

DS CLUTCH

The FC 450 features a dampened diaphragm steel (DDS) clutch that includes a single-diaphragm steel pressure plate instead of traditional coil springs. It integrates a damping system for better traction and durability. The clutch basket is a single-piece, CNC-machined steel component using thin steel liners, which ensures a compact overall engine design.

GEARBOX

Produced by Pankl Racing Systems, the 5-speed gearbox is designed to be extremely light and durable while featuring optimised and proven motocross-specific gear ratios (29:72). Integrated into the shift drum, a Quickshifter sensor can be activated by pressing the QS marked button on the Map Select Switch to further aid smooth upshifting.

LIGHTWEIGHT FRAME

The proven chromium molybdenum steel frame is refined for 2023. A new shock mounting, which is no longer connected to the main tube, significantly improves the anti-squat behaviour of the chassis. With optimised wall thickness in high stress areas improving reliability, the frame continues to offer advanced geometries and flex characteristics aimed at providing unparalleled rider feedback, energy absorption, and exceptional straight-line stability. The frame is finished off in a premium white powder coating with redesigned standard frame protectors offering superior protection, durability, and grip in any condition. Additionally, the inclusion of forged brackets on the lower frame rails allows for easy installation of the skid plate, which is available as a technical accessory.

POLYAMIDE-REINFORCED ALUMINIUM SUBFRAME

Made from 60% polyamide and 40% aluminium, the new two-piece subframe for 2023 ensures exceptional strength and durability at an overall weight of just 3.9 lb (1.8 kg). The lower subframe spars and frame mounts are manufactured from cast aluminium for significantly improved reliability. The upper section of the subframe is made from injection-moulded polyamide to enable specific flex characteristics and ensure a lightweight construction.

CNC MACHINED TRIPLE CLAMPS

Working in unison with the frame design and suspension set-up, the CNC-machined triple clamps ensure precisely calculated geometry for assured stability. Handlebar flex can be customised with the handlebar clamp, which offers two mounting options - rubber-damped for less vibration, or fixed for enhanced front-end feedback. The upper triple clamp is stiffer to ensure a smoother fork action and plays a vital role in the perfect alignment of the front wheel for superior handling.

WP XACT FRONT SUSPENSION

The 48 mm WP XACT forks feature a closed cartridge system and a capsulated, adjustable air spring. Together with a pressurised oil chamber, the forks deliver a smooth action and consistent damping. Oil and air bypasses reduce pressure peaks and in combination with the mid-valve damping system, the forks provide precise feedback to the rider. To ensure maximum forward momentum after heavy landings, a hydrostop applies a progressive damping force in the last 40 mm of travel. The settings are easily adjusted via the single air pressure pre-load valve, as well as through easy access click adjusters for compression and rebound. Additionally, the pump needed to adjust the air spring pressure in the forks is provided with each Heritage machine.

WP XACT SHOCK ABSORBER

The all-new WP XACT rear shock is 100 g lighter and 15 mm shorter than its predecessor yet the travel remains unchanged. Inside the shock is a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) optimised main piston for improved initial comfort which provides strong hold-up in all conditions. Different sized holes in the shims allow them to open more easily which reduces the overall stress of the oil flow. Complete with low friction SKF seals and a revised linkage system, consistent damping, comfort, and traction are guaranteed with rebound and both high and low speed compression now adjustable by hand.

SWINGARM

The swingarm is manufactured using a die-cast production process for optimal rigidity. To optimise and match the flex characteristics of the chassis, a 22 mm rear axle is utilised. Additionally, the chain slider is exceptionally durable while the chain guide is manufactured with a rounded profile to ensure it is less prone to catching on external objects.

FUNCTIONAL BODYWORK

Clean, Swedish-inspired design and ergonomics are tailored to allow riders to perform at their best for extended periods of time. Adapted after countless hours of testing, the contact points and surfaces in the rider triangle have been repositioned for 2023 to improve comfort on the motorcycle. A flat seat offers unrestricted movement with a high grip, ribbed seat cover ensuring riders stay firmly in place under hard acceleration.

AIRBOX

A strong, one-piece airbox with optimised air intake tracts ensure an unrestricted flow of air for maximum power. The Twin Air filter is easily accessed without tools, by simply removing the left side panel for easy maintenance.

HYDRAULIC CLUTCH

The high-performance Brembo hydraulic clutch system guarantees even wear, near maintenance-free operation, and perfect action in every condition. With this hydraulic system, free play is constantly compensated so that the pressure point and function of the clutch remain identical in cold or hot conditions, as well as over time. Countless hours of race-focused testing have proven the exceptional reliability of the high-quality, Italian-made Brembo hydraulic systems.

HYDRAULIC BRAKES

The highest levels of quality and performance are guaranteed as the class leading Brembo brake calipers are made from single pieces of aluminium for exceptional strength at the lowest possible weight. Together with a 260 mm front and a 220 mm rear disc, which are designed to prevent mud build-up, superior stopping power and braking confidence is guaranteed in all conditions.

PROTAPER HANDLEBAR

Developed between Husqvarna Motorcycles and leading handlebar manufacturer, ProTaper, the exclusive bend offers superior comfort, class-leading strength, and fatigue resistance at the lowest possible weight. On top sits the black ProTaper handlebar pad adding style and safety.

ODI GRIPS

ProTaper handlebarODI lock-on grips feature an innovative, integrated throttle mechanism and are installed without using glue. The throttle assembly offers easy free-play adjustment with the option to fit alternative cams for a personalised throttle action.

FOOTRESTS

The CFD-designed footrests are extra wide to ensure better control of the machine while at the same time they are less susceptible to catching on deep ruts, take-offs when scrubbing, and trackside barriers. This was achieved by the narrow mounting design in the frame layout.

WHEELS AND TYRES

Assembled with CNC-machined hubs, lightweight spokes, and strong, black-anodised alloy rims by D.I.D, the wheels of the FC 450 offer strength and minimal unsprung weight. New, Dunlop Geomax MX34 Motocross tyres are fitted and feature a proven block-within-a-block design for enhanced control and superior grip on a variety of riding surfaces.

EXHAUST SYSTEM

The exhaust system on the FC 450 features a flow-designed resonance chamber, which plays a vital role in delivering class-leading performance. Manufactured in two pieces and designed to be as compact as possible, the header pipe allows for the system to be removed without removing the rear shock. The silencer has a short and efficient design, moving weight closer to the centre of gravity and ensuring impressive power while keeping noise as low as possible. A black coating highlights the premium quality of the silencer.

COOLING SYSTEM

Manufactured from high-strength aluminium, the radiators are designed using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to channel air through them in the most effective way. A large centre tube through the frame reduces pressure at this point in the system for a consistent coolant flow while an internal thermostat further enhances reliability.

FUEL TANK

A 1.9 gallon (7.2 liter) fuel tank integrates neatly with the ergonomic bodywork and features an updated rubber cushion beneath it to protect against wear from the frame. The one-piece fuel pump and integrated filter allows the tank to be emptied further to offer an extended running time. For improved durability, the external fuel line is specifically routed to make it less exposed and susceptible to damage.

MAP SELECT SWITCH

The intuitive handlebar-mounted Map Select Switch allows riders to activate Launch and Traction Control, enable the Quickshifter, and allows riders to toggle between two engine maps. The easy-to-operate Map Select Switch allows racers to quickly alter and set up the engine characteristics on a race by race basis dependent on track conditions and rider preference.

QUICKSHIFT

The Quickshifter function can be activated or deactivated via the Map Select Switch and works by interrupting the ignition for a fraction of a second when upshifting. A sensor on the shift drum registers the force from the shift lever, sends a signal to the ECU, and ensures smooth gear changes - even when the throttle is fully open. To prevent unintended shifts and false neutrals, the function is only active from second gear upwards.

TRACTION CONTROL

Traction Control on the FC 450 is engaged by pressing the button marked 'TC' on the Map Select Switch and functions by analysing throttle input from the rider and the rate at which engine RPM increases. If the RPM increases too quickly, the engine management system (EMS) registers a loss of grip and reduces the amount of power to the rear wheel to ensure maximum traction. This is a distinct advantage in wet or muddy conditions.

LAUNCH CONTROL

With the engine at idle, Launch Control is engaged by pressing the Traction Control and Quickshifter buttons simultaneously. Both symbols will start flashing to indicate that Launch Control is active. This function limits the amount of power to the rear wheel, improving traction, and preventing loss of control under hard acceleration. Once a gear change is made, the Launch Control will deactivate automatically. Additionally, the Quickshifter function is deactivated when Launch Control is engaged.

MAPPING

For personalised power delivery, the FC 450 has two built-in engine maps as standard. Map 1 (white) offers linear, predictable power, while map 2 (green) is more aggressive for a sharper throttle response and more explosive power output.

EMS

The engine management system (EMS) is designed to be small, light, and fast at processing data. It incorporates a rollover sensor (ROS) which cuts the ignition and shuts off the engine in the event of a severe crash for an additional layer of safety.

HOUR METER

The hour meter comes with an integrated fuel level indicator, which is visible on the FI status LED, and warns the rider when the fuel level is getting low.

START/STOP SWITCH

The combined start/stop switch is located on the right side of the handlebar for easy, thumb-operated use. Not only simplifying the starting and stopping of the engine, the removal of a designated stop only button from the handlebar reduces the risk of potential damage or activation in the event of a fall.

ELECTRIC START

As with all 4-strokes in the Husqvarna motocross range, the FC 350 starts with the ease of pressing a button thanks to electric start. A lightweight Li-Ion 2.0 Ah battery is fitted, giving the convenience of electric starting while keeping overall weight to a minimum.