The FC 450 continues to be the flagship machine in the Husqvarna Motorcycles motocross line-up. Its class-leading performance is retained for 2025 thanks to a new chromium molybdenum frame that is lighter, perfectly balanced, and improves agility without sacrificing straight-line stability. Further upgrades include new, race-tested Dunlop Geomax MX34 tyres and ergonomic bodywork that features new, Swedish-inspired graphics that are applied using in-mold technology for a long-lasting, striking finish.
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.
Lightweight frame
For 2025, the frame around the shock mount and steering head has less material, with revised wall thickness in higher stress areas improving overall strength. Together, these changes reduce the weight of the frame by 300 g for improved cornering, unparalleled rider feedback, and energy absorption. New engine mounts with cut-outs improve chassis flex characteristics, reduce weight, and contribute to confidence inspiring stability. The frame is finished with a premium metallic blue powder coating with frame protectors offering superior protection, durability, and grip in any condition.
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.
Functional bodywork
The new bodywork has been designed to allow riders to perform at their very best for extended periods of time. Following countless hours of testing and refinements, the larger contact points and surfaces in the rider triangle enhance comfort, which in turn helps to reduce fatigue. A higher, wider seat offers unrestricted movement with revised tank shrouds and a high grip cover ensuring riders stay firmly in place under hard acceleration.
Airbox
A stiffer, one-piece airbox design with an optimised air intake reduces air deformation, ensuring an unrestricted flow of air and maximum filter protection. The Twin Air filter is easily accessed without tools, by simply removing the left side panel for easy maintenance.
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.
Wheels and tyres
Assembled with CNC-machined hubs, lightweight spokes, and strong, black-anodised alloy rims by D.I.D, the wheels of the FC 450 offer strength and minimal unsprung weight. New, Dunlop Geomax MX34 Motocross tyres are fitted and feature a proven block-within-a-block design for enhanced control and superior grip on a variety of riding surfaces.
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.
