Bikes 9 Sep 2021

Tested: 2022 Husqvarna FC 450

MotoOnline.com.au reviews the latest 2022 Husqvarna FC 450.

Words: Mike Sleeter

Since the inception of the new generation of Husqvarna Motorcycles, the FC 450 has experienced great results in winning premier class Supercross and Pro Motocross titles at the hands of Jason Anderson and Zach Osborne. For 2022, it’s a truly refined platform that we just recently Tested.

As the brand’s success elevates, it continues to develop a unique identity and proving to the world that it is not just a spin-off of KTM – the FC 450 being no exception, with different ergonomics and suspension settings providing a distinctive riding experience. Detailed has the complete technical rundown.

Beginning with the motor, the Husqvarna FC 450 boasts a power-plant that is easy to ride for a variety of skill levels. Its unique air-box design provides broad power with a different feel to the KTM and the throttle response is noticeably quicker, making the bike feel lighter and more nimble.

Image: Cade Media.

One area I found problematic during our single-day test was shifting between second and third gear at high rpm, however, it must be said that I do tend to rev the 450s harder than the average guy. Instead, you’re probably going to benefit by keeping it lower in the range.

It’s great having a dual map setting on the bar in addition to an added traction control switch, which enables the engine to work effortlessly on hard-pack tracks, as well as launch control. You can set the map to your liking and that adjustability becomes an important aspect of the ride.

All in all, the 2022 Husqvarna FC 450 motor is hard to beat for the reasons stated above and provides its own distinctive characteristics when compared to its Austrian siblings, the KTM and GasGas. As the more premium variant of the three, Husqvarna delivers.

Image: Cade Media.

Looking at the chassis, again the Husqvarna provides an exceptional package and unique feel with its composite sub-frame and model-specific WP Suspension settings. You may not suspect that those things alone make for its own character, but they definitely do combined with the chromium molybdenum steel frame.

When testing, the track was tacky in the morning before drying up in the afternoon, but with some slight front suspension changes – bumping up the pressure in the front fork – the bike worked well all day. The AER fork is responsive to adjustments and I was comfortable with the setting quite quickly.

The Dunlop Geomax MX33 tyres are consistent and solid all around, but one thing I did notice was that when the front-end got light, a bit of extra traction wouldn’t hurt. Also to that point, on the flip-side, the Brembo brakes front and rear, as well as the upgraded Brembo hydraulic clutch set the standard in those areas.

Image: Cade Media.

The ProTaper handlebars that come standard on the FC 450 provide great flex and comfort, while the ODI lock-on grips provide an ideal finish to the cockpit. The ergonomics are effective, with the side-plate design allowing you to lock your legs in for grip. I can’t complain in this area.

Overall, in summary the 2022 Husqvarna FC 450 is a solid all-round package with a high amount of horsepower and a chassis that works. I appreciate the KTM Group in developing its own unique characteristics and, in all, it’s a very easy bike to ride for amateurs and pros alike.

Specifications

Engine type: 449.9cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, four-stroke
Bore/stroke: 95×63.4mm
Transmission: Five-speed
Starter: Electric
Clutch: Brembo hydraulic
Traction control: Yes
Launch control: Yes
Front suspension: WP Xact 48mm adjustable air fork
Rear suspension: WP Xact shock
Front brake: Brembo two-piston caliper, 260mm disc
Rear brake: Brembo one-piston caliper, 220mm disc
Tyres: Dunlop Geomax MX33
Weight: 101kg
Price: $14,130 RRP
Availability: Out now
Further information: www.husqvarna-motorcycles.com

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