Highlights of the FC 450 (MY26)

Benefits of this bike

01. Faster and wiser

Powerful 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.

DDS 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.

02. Ride easier

Lightweight frame: With an optimised distribution of material around the steering head and upper shock mount, the frame delivers confidence-inspiring handling and assured stability when entering corners. To complement the overall look of the machine, the chromium molybdenum chassis is finished with a premium, metallic blue powder coating. The finishing touches are the frame protectors, which not only protect the paintwork, but also provide riders with additional grip, even in the toughest conditions.

Polyamide-reinforced aluminium subframe: Made from 60% polyamide and 40% aluminium, the two-piece subframe 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: Working in unison with the frame design and suspension set-up, the CNC-machined triple clamps provide precisely calculated geometry for increased 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: Rigorously tested by the WP research and development department, the 48 mm WP XACT closed cartridge spring forks fitted to the FC 450 provide exceptional comfort. Inside the forks, mid-valve pistons optimise oil flow and prevent foaming for consistent and predictable damping at all times. A hydrostop, active in the final 40 mm of travel, reduces the impact of harsh and high-speed landings to maintain forward momentum. Both compression and rebound settings can be quickly adjusted by hand using the easily accessible clickers located on top of each fork leg.

WP XACT shock absorber: The WP XACT rear shock features a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) optimised main piston, ensuring superior initial comfort and predictable performance in all conditions. To give riders the option of creating a personalised set-up, rebound, as well as the high and low-speed compression settings, can all be adjusted easily by hand.

Swingarm: The swingarm is manufactured using a die-cast production process and designed with a calculated level of rigidity. To further complement and optimise the flex characteristics of the chassis, a 22 mm rear wheel axle is utilised. A durable chain slider is neatly integrated into the swingarm, ensuring uninterrupted forward momentum through deeply rutted corners.

03. Effortless ergonomics

Functional bodywork: The ergonomic bodywork was designed to ensure that riders can perform at their best throughout every race. This was achieved through extensive testing, with the smooth contact points in the rider triangle allowing racers to grip the machine tightly with their legs, reducing fatigue. The radiator shrouds, featuring in-mould graphics, contribute to the progressive appearance of the machine, while a tall, wide seat offers unrestricted movement. A high-grip seat cover also helps keep riders securely in place under hard acceleration.

Airbox: A strong, one-piece airbox optimises air intake by reducing deformation. This design provides an unrestricted flow of air for maximum power, without compromising filter protection. The Twin Air filter can be easily inspected without tools by simply removing the left side panel.

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 high-quality, Italian-made Brembo hydraulic systems' exceptional reliability.

Hydraulic brakes: Class-leading Brembo brake callipers, made from single pieces of aluminium for strength, are fitted front and rear to ensure high braking performance. Together with 260 mm front and 220 mm rear discs, both designed to prevent mud build-up, effective stopping power in all conditions is assured. The strong rear brake pedal is highly durable, and less susceptible to damage when riding through deep ruts.

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.

ODI grips: ODI 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 are less susceptible to catching on deep ruts, take-offs when scrubbing, and trackside barriers. This is achieved by a narrower mounting design in the frame layout, which also helps reduce overall weight.

04. Master your art

Wheels and tyres: CNC-machined hubs, strong spokes, and high-strength, black-anodised alloy rims by D.I.D are used to assemble the wheels. They are complete with the latest Dunlop MX34 tyres, with the front ensuring precise cornering, while the rear provides excellent traction across varied terrain.

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. A reliable, threaded radiator cap allows for easy inspection of the coolant level before each ride.

Fuel tank: The 7.2-litre fuel tank integrates neatly within the ergonomic bodywork and features a strong rubber cushion beneath it to protect the frame from wear. For maximum durability, the external fuel line is specifically routed to make it less exposed and susceptible to damage. Additionally, the protective cap for the fuel filter prevents dirt and water from entering the system and shields it from impact damage.

05. Technologically advanced

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: Along with the benefit of an easy electric starting system, a lightweight Li-Ion 2.0 Ah battery is fitted to the FC 450. The Li-Ion battery weighs approx. 1 kg less than a conventional lead battery meaning the convenience of electric starting is delivered while keeping overall weight to a minimum.