Receiving multiple technical upgrades for 2023 to maintain its class-leading performance on the track, the FC 450 remains the pinnacle machine in the Husqvarna Motorcycles motocross line-up. A new engine not only produces a broad spread of controllable power, but positions the engine shaft arrangements at the ideal centre of gravity to vastly benefit manoeuvrability. Aiding this agile feel is the new chassis, which has been developed and manufactured using advanced engineering techniques to assist with repositioning the rotational masses to offer improved anti-squat behaviour for improved handling. Retaining the advanced electronics and high-quality components throughout, the FC 450 is finished with new functional bodywork adorned with white, yellow, and grey graphics, inspired by the Swedish heritage of the brand.
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.
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.
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.
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.
TRANSMISSION 5-speed
STARTER Electric starter
STROKE 63.4 mm
BORE 95 mm
CLUTCH Wet, DDS multi-disc clutch, Brembo hydraulics
DISPLACEMENT 449.9 cm³
EMS Keihin EMS
DESIGN 1-cylinder, 4-stroke engine
WEIGHT (WITHOUT FUEL) 102.8 kg
TANK CAPACITY (APPROX.) 7.2 l
FRONT BRAKE DISC DIAMETER 260 mm
REAR BRAKE DISC DIAMETER 220 mm
FRONT BRAKE Disc brake
REAR BRAKE Disc brake
CHAIN X-Ring 5/8 × 1/4”
FRAME DESIGN Central double-cradle-type 25CrMo4 steel
FRONT SUSPENSION WP XACT-USD, Ø 48 mm
GROUND CLEARANCE 336 mm
REAR SUSPENSION WP XACT Monoshock with linkage
SEAT HEIGHT 939 mm
STEERING HEAD ANGLE 63.9 °
SUSPENSION TRAVEL (FRONT) 305 mm
SUSPENSION TRAVEL (REAR) 293 mm