The FC 450 continues as the flagship machine in the Husqvarna Motorcycles motocross line-up and delivers class-leading performance. The engine not only produces a broad spread of controllable power, but positions the shaft arrangements at the ideal centre of gravity to vastly benefit manoeuvrability. Retaining the advanced electronics and high-quality components throughout, the 2024 FC 450 is finished with ergonomic bodywork adorned with new white, yellow, and grey graphics, inspired by the Swedish heritage of the brand.
Powerful engine
The FC 450 engine benefits from advanced engineering techniques to deliver maximum performance. For 2023 the engine is lighter, weighing just 26.8 kilograms, and is tilted two degrees backwards to further centralise mass for enhanced handling and significantly improved anti-squat behaviour 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 redesigned SOHC cylinder head is incredibly compact with the camshaft positioned as close to the centre of gravity as possible for significantly improved handling and agility. A new, more durable fine punched cam chain runs on low-friction chain guides for optimal efficiency and improved reliability with a single oil spray jet guaranteeing 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. For improved performance, the compression ratio has been increased to 13.1:1 to create an incredible peak power to ensure the FC 450 remains firmly at the front of the pack.
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 metallic blue 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 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
Matching the new frame design and suspension set-up, the CNC-machined triple clamps provide precisely calculated geometry for increased stability. Customised handlebar flex can be achieved by the new 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.
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 new, flatter seat offers unrestricted movement with a high grip cover ensuring riders stay firmly in place under hard acceleration.
Airbox
Designed with precisely positioned inlet ducts aimed at reducing drag and air flow deformation, the airbox ensures unrestricted airflow with maximum filter protection. The TWIN AIR filter is easily accessed without tools, by simply removing the left side panel for easy maintenance. Offering further performance customisation, the FC 450 is delivered with an additional airbox cover that can be changed without the use of any tools for a sharper throttle response according to rider preference or track conditions.
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Hydraulic clutch
The high-performance Brembo hydraulic clutch system guarantees even wear, near maintenance-free operation and perfect modulation in every condition. Meaning that 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 high-quality, Italian-made Brembo hydraulic systems' exceptional reliability.
Wheels and tyres
Assembled with CNC-machined hubs, strong spokes, and black-anodised alloy rims by D.I.D, the wheels of the FC 450 are fitted with DUNLOP GEOMAX MX33 Motocross tyres which feature a proven block-within-a-block design for more progressive cornering and superior grip. For increased traction and stability through ruts, the FC 450 is fitted with a 120/90-19 rear tyre while a 80/100-21 front tyre ensures optimal 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 its premium quality.
Cooling system
Manufactured from high-strength aluminium, the radiators are designed using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to channel air in the most effective way. A large centre tube channels coolant through the frame to reduce pressure at this point in the system for a more consistent flow while a new internal thermostat further enhances reliability.
Map select switch
A redesigned and intuitive handlebar-mounted map select switch allows riders to activate launch and traction control, enable the new Quickshift functionality, 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 new Quickshift function can be activated or deactivated via the map select switch. The function works only when upshifting, interrupting the ignition for a fraction of a second. This allows upshifting while the throttle is fully open without the use of the clutch. A sensor on the shift drum registers the force from the shift lever, sends the signal to the ECU and the ignition timing is interrupted. 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 a 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.
