2024 Husqvarna FC 450

2024 Husqvarna® FC 450

Treated to a number of technical upgrades for 2024 so it can hold on to its class-leading performance on the track, the FC 450 is still the top machine in the Husqvarna Motorcycles motocross range. Its new engine does more than deliver a wide band of controllable power: it also places the engine shafts at the ideal center of gravity, which greatly benefits maneuverability. The new chassis adds to this nimble feel. It was developed and built with advanced engineering techniques that assist in relocating the rotational mass, giving better anti-squat behavior for better handling. The advanced electronics and high-quality components throughout carry over, and the FC 450 is completed with new functional bodywork wearing white, yellow, and gray graphics that draw on the brand's Swedish heritage.

Possible features include:

• Powerful engine

Advanced engineering techniques give the FC 450 engine maximum performance. At just 26.8 lbs (26.8 kg), the engine is built to centralize mass for enhanced handling, and it significantly improves the chassis's anti-squat behavior. Service markers have been added to the engine cases, making the FC 450 engine easier to service than on previous models.

• Cylinder

The SOHC cylinder head has been redesigned to be incredibly compact, placing the camshaft as close to the center of gravity as it can go for significantly improved handling and agility. A new fine punched cam chain with greater durability travels on low-friction chain guides for optimal efficiency and better reliability, while a single oil spray jet guarantees effective cooling. A rocker arm operates the lightweight valves, and their timing is engineered specifically to provide precise levels of torque and throttle response.

• Cylinder and piston

Without a doubt an engineering masterpiece, the lightweight aluminum cylinder has a 95 mm bore and a 63.4 mm stroke. Inside sits the CP bridged-box-type piston, which weighs just 327 g and has anodized annular grooves that add durability and longer service intervals. To boost performance, the compression ratio has been raised to 13.1:1, producing incredible peak power so the FC 450 stays securely at the head of the pack.

• Crankshaft

The crankshaft's placement is deliberate, harnessing the rotating mass at the ideal center of gravity for a light, agile handling feel. Accordingly, the inertia it generates is carefully calculated to provide optimal traction and rideability from the powerful 450cc plant. A plain big end bearing made up of two force-fitted bearing shells ensures maximum reliability and durability and guarantees long service intervals of 90 hours.

• Crankcases

Built with optimized mass centralization in mind, the FC 450 crankcases put the shafts and internal engine parts in the perfect position for the best possible handling. A high-pressure die-cast production process yields thin walls of exceptional strength at the lowest possible weight.

• DDS clutch

A Dampened Diaphragm Steel clutch is fitted to the FC 450, using a single-diaphragm steel pressure plate in place of conventional coil springs. Its built-in damping system provides better traction and durability. The clutch basket, a one-piece CNC-machined steel part, was reworked in 2023 to suit the new gearbox, and it still permits thin steel liners, which contribute to the engine's compact design.