Receiving multiple technical upgrades for 2024 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 mass 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.
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The FC 450 engine benefits from advanced engineering techniques to deliver maximum performance. Weighing just 26.8 lbs (26.8 kg), the engine is designed to centralise mass for enhanced handling and significantly improves 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.
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.
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.
The crankshaft is specifically positioned to harness the rotating mass in the ideal centre of gravity resulting in 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 450cc plant. A plain big end bearing comprising of two force-fitted bearing shells ensure maximum reliability and durability, guaranteeing long service intervals of 90 hours.
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.
The FC 450 features a Dampened Diaphragm Steel clutch, which 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, which has been revised to accommodate the new gearbox in 2023, and continues to allow the use of thin steel liners that contribute to the compact design of the engine.