Highlights of the FE 450 (MY26)

Benefits of this bike

01. Progressive performance

Engine: Advanced engineering techniques are used to build the engine to ensure maximum performance. It is then positioned in the frame to assist with the anti-squat behaviour from the chassis while also helping to centralise mass. Lightweight at just 29 kg, the 450 cc 4-stroke engine is also powerful with a peak power output.

Cylinder head: The SOHC cylinder head is incredibly compact and lightweight with the camshaft positioned as close to the centre of gravity as possible. A durable, fine-punched cam chain and Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coated rocker arm offer optimal efficiency and reliability with a single oil spray jet providing effective cooling. Valve timings are optimised for maximum torque and a smooth power delivery.

Cylinder and piston: The lightweight aluminium cylinder is an engineering masterpiece with a 95 mm bore and a stroke of 63.40 mm. Inside, the forged CP bridged-box-type piston features anodised annular grooves for added durability and extended service intervals. The compression ratio remains unchanged at 12.75:1.

Crankcases: Designed to be low in weight without sacrificing strength or reliability, the crankcases are made using a high-pressure die cast production process to create a thin-wall design. To centralise engine mass, the shaft arrangements are precisely positioned to harness rotating masses at the ideal centre of gravity.

Throttle body: The FE 450 features a 42 mm Keihin throttle body optimised for throttle response. The injector is positioned to ensure the most efficient flow into the combustion chamber with the throttle cable mounted directly without a linkage for an enhanced response.

Exhaust: The exhaust system is expertly designed to deliver class-leading performance at the lowest possible weight with the header pipe manufactured in two pieces. This design allows the header pipe to be removed without having to remove the rear shock. Further innovation allows for a short, compact silencer without increasing sound levels. The silencer is crafted from lightweight aluminium and stylishly finished with a black coating to highlight its premium quality.

02. State-of-the-art chassis

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.

Hybrid subframe: Made from 60% polyamide and 40% aluminium, the subframe offers exceptional strength and durability at a low overall weight of just 1.8 kg. The lower subframe spars and frame mounts are manufactured from cast aluminium for reliability with the upper section made from injection-molded polyamide to enable specific flex characteristics.

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.

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.

Fueltank: An 8-litre fuel tank integrates neatly with the ergonomic bodywork and features a robust rubber cushion beneath it to hold the tank in place and protect the frame from wear. For durability, the external fuel line is specifically routed to make it less exposed and susceptible to damage.

03. Innovative advantage

WP XACT front forks: Designed and developed for the rigours of enduro riding, the WP XACT Closed Cartridge spring forks offer consistent damping thanks to their innovative design. Inside each fork leg, lightweight springs with a polished finish enhance performance, while mid-valve pistons optimise oil flow to prevent foaming. A one-piece hydrostop, effective in the last 68 mm of travel, is highly advantageous when landing heavily as it helps to maintain forward momentum. Additionally, riders can alter the compression and rebound settings quickly and easily using the tool-free adjusters found at the top and bottom of each fork leg.

WP XACT rear shock: 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.

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.

Hydraulic clutch: The new, 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 the function of the clutch, remain identical in cold or hot conditions, as well as over time. Countless hours of testing have proven the reliability of the high-quality, Italian-made Brembo hydraulic system.

Wheels and tyres: CNC-machined hubs, strong spokes, and high-strength, black-anodised alloy rims are used to assemble the wheels. They are complete with the latest Michelin tyres for precise cornering and superior grip across varied terrain.

Cooling system: Manufactured from high-strength aluminium, the radiators are engineered using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). The design channels air efficiently through the radiators, with a fan fitted as standard to maintain engine performance in extreme conditions. A large centre tube routed through the frame reduces pressure at this point in the system, ensuring consistent coolant flow, while an internal thermostat further improves reliability. A reliable, threaded radiator cap allows for easy inspection of the coolant level before each ride.

Triple clamps: The black-anodized, CNC-machined triple clamps offer premium quality as standard. They have a carefully calculated 22 mm offset and are expertly crafted using superior techniques and materials for the highest levels of quality and reliability. The handlebar clamp has a large contact surface with the ProTaper bars to help prevent twisting in the event of a crash and offers two mounting options for customisable ergonomics.

04. Technology advanced

LED headlight: The LED headlight provides a remarkably bright light output for excellent visibility at night and is particularly effective when riding through dense woodland. A clever mounting design sees the LED lighting unit fitted inside the headlight mask using a quick-release system that allows it to be replaced quickly and easily if damaged.

Map Select Switch: Designed for easy operation, the Map Select Switch allows riders to easily choose between two EFI maps, activates Traction Control, and engages the Quickshifter. Traction Control can be switched on or off via the Map Select Switch and functions by analysing throttle input from the rider and the rate at which the engine RPM increases. If the RPM increases too quickly, the EMS registers a loss of grip and reduces the amount of power to the rear wheel, ensuring maximum traction. The Quickshifter can also be engaged using the same Map Select Switch and offers seamless upshifts under heavy load.

Quickshift: The Quickshifter can be activated or deactivated via the Map Select Switch. By interrupting the ignition for a fraction of a second, this allows upshifting while the throttle is fully open without the use of the clutch. The Quickshifter is only active from second gear upwards.

Electric start: Taken from the motocross range, 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, but 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.

Footrest: Using state-of-the-art computational fluid dynamics, the large footrests are designed for maximum control and to prevent mud from building up. Additionally, the mounting position brings them inwards, which makes them less susceptible to catching on the ground through deep ruts.

Airbox: With precisely positioned inlet ducts reducing air flow deformation, the airbox ensures unrestricted airflow with maximum filter protection. The Twin Air filter is mounted onto a cage designed to offer accurate installation and can be easily accessed without tools by removing the left side panel.