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2014 Husqvarna FC450
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2014 Husqvarna FC450

2014 Husqvarna FC450

2014 Husqvarna FC450

2014 Husqvarna FC450

2014 Husqvarna FC450 Review

2014 Husqvarna FC450 on Totalmotorcycle.com

Shock wave of power…

The FC 450 takes Husqvarna back to the very top of Motocross. It is imbued with power and breathtaking force, encased in a lightweight and cutting-edge chassis. Thanks to the 60 hp power plant and a wave of torque across the entire rev range, the FC 450 is a supreme example of what Husqvarna stands for: raw performance at the pinnacle of motorsport. And with a chromoly frame matched to a composite rear subframe and electric start, it is also one of the most advanced Motocross bikes on the market.

 

With a full range of 2-strokes and 4-strokes for all rider levels and preferences, the 2014 model range of motocross bikes brings the glorious brand back in contention at the very top.

2-strokes have always had a central role in the Husqvarna range, and 2014 is no different with the range of TC models (TC –Two-stroke Cross), starting with a brand new competition level 85 cc mini bike and a powerful yet agile and superlight 125.

With 300 cc 2-strokes getting a European Motocross Championship class in 2014, there is no better bike available to tackle the
competition with than the super-powerful TC 250 fitted with the 300 cc transformation kit available in Husky Power.

As a pioneer of 4-stroke motocross bikes, Husqvarna reinforces its strong 4-stroke history with 3 brand new models that cover
all the possible needs of every rider, from expert to amateur.

The state-of-the-art 250 cc, 350 cc and 450 cc engines in the FC range (Four-stroke Cross) are encased in a light and agile
chassis for maximum performance and wrapped in sharp bodywork and new white, yellow and blue colours for a stylish look on the race track.

Where do we come from?

In March 2013, Husqvarna entered the KTM family. Model Year 2014 marks a historic moment for Husqvarna, a return to its glorious origins, characterised by state-of-the-art technology and a blue, yellow and white colour scheme …

Husqvarna is the original name of a town in southern Sweden, where a metalworking business was founded in 1689 to produce muskets for the Swedish Army. Production of motorcycles began in 1903, making Husqvarna one of the world’s oldest motorcycle
manufacturers with uninterrupted production. The first Husqvarna motorcycle completely developed and produced in Sweden was
launched in 1918. As early as the 1920s and 1930s, Husqvarna motorcycles were being built for the road, but were also entered
for prestigious racing events such as the Tourist Trophy.

Its commitment to international competitions made Husqvarna famous throughout Europe.

In the post-World War 2 years the Husqvarna motorcycle range was limited to lightweight two-stroke models, which, in modified
form, were also used in the offroad sports that were becoming popular in the mid-1950s.

In the years that followed numerous competition machines with two and four-stroke engines were developed; and between 1960 and 1963 the first five Motocross World Championship titles were won in the 500cc and 250cc classes. Among the high-profile Husqvarna riders in the successful era of the 1960s and 1970s were Torsten Hallman, Malcolm Smith and Hollywood film actor Steve McQueen.

Racing continued throughout the ‘80s and saw Gualtiero Brissoni win the European Enduro Championship for the first time for
Husqvarna in 1982 in the 250cc class, followed by authentic Swedish heroes like Sven Erik Jonsson and Thomas Gustavsson.

In 1983 Husqvarna marked yet another milestone with its 500 4-stroke model. The exceptionally light and easy-handling offroader
with all-round lubrication and air cooling became the forerunner of a generation of four-stroke motorcycles for offroad use. By 1977 the entire Husqvarna business had already become part of Sweden’s Electrolux Group. Then, in 1987, the Husqvarna motorcycle division was sold to the Cagiva MV Agusta Group and the company headquarters and production transferred to Varese in Italy. In 2007, Husqvarna Motorcycles was acquired by the BMW Group.

 

What belonged together, belongs together!

After 25 years of independence, 2013 marks the date in which Husaberg returns to Husqvarna and forms the “new” Husqvarna –
excellent bikes with a unique story. A mixture of tradition, history, style and racing.

A quarter of a century is how long Husqvarna and Husaberg followed separate paths. Based at opposite ends of Europe, the
two brands were to trade paint on the most demanding offroad courses around the world, as well as in the marketplace.

On the one hand Husqvarna, with its centennial history, backed by enthusiastic Italian flair and sporting knowhow, went on to claim
over 60 World titles between motocross, enduro and supermoto.

On the other hand, Husaberg spawned from Husqvarna and followed a path of growing commercial success, backed by considerable sporting triumphs, with 20 titles and countless victories. Husaberg brings back to Husqvarna much more than just
technical know-how. As a young, strong and dependable brand, Husaberg’s innovative approach to product development has been
matched only by its reputation for reliability and clear understanding of its consumers needs.

In recent years Husaberg grew to almost match Husqvarna.

Now, the two once competing brands come together. The Swedish origins of Husqvarna and Husaberg are to be reunited and based in Mattighofen, Austria, under the watchful eye of one of the most successful motorcycle manufacturers the world has ever seen.

110 years offroad

Husqvarna is one of the oldest motorcycle manufacturers in the world – pioneers of the motocross segment. The combination of tradition, a 110-year company history, added to state-of-the-art technology and devotion to detail offer a very special brand experience. The offroad brand with the most fascinating history, coupled with style and technical details. This makes Husqvarna one of the most serious contenders in the offroad market.

Husqvarna today is in the privileged position of being able to take advantage of one of the most technologically advanced manufacturing hubs in the motorcycle industry. The Mattighofen area is home to several companies that belong to the largest and most important motorcycle manufacturer in Europe. High-tech manufacturing facilities find their place alongside cutting-edge research and development centres. The highly automated production methods of group company WP ensure that frames, radiators, suspension and exhausts are produced to the highest quality standards. Two efficient and flexible engine assembly lines in Munderfing cater for all displacements and engine types, and follow just-in-time production processes, with tested engines being delivered on a daily basis to the main production facility in nearby Mattighofen, where four assembly lines pump out hundreds of motorcycles a day to exacting standards.

Husqvarna’s revamped model strategy is focused on offroad, with over a dozen high-tech, class-leading motorcycles to tackle the enduro and motocross segments head-on. The competitive range of 2-stroke and 4-stroke enduro bikes are present in every category, from the light and super-agile TE 125 2-stroke to the full-on power of the FE 501 4-stroke. As pioneers of motocross, Model Year 2014 reflects Husqvarna’s intentions of returning to the top of the category, with a vast selection of displacements and engine types ranging from the light and agile 85cc 2-stroke to the super-power of the TC 450. Sharp and modern bodywork is wrapped tightly around high-tech engines and chassis, while the white, yellow and blue colours highlight the amazing attributes of the MY 2014 Husqvarnas.

The push for success means that no stone will be left unturned, and for 2014 Husqvarna will be back in the main offroad competitions of the world. Factory teams in both the MX1 and MX2 categories, as well as the World Enduro Championship, are to carry the 110 years of Husqvarna heritage to the pinnacle of offroad motorsport.

 

 

2014 Husqvarna FC450 Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features

60 hp SOHC engine: breathtaking power in a compact engine

Composite rear subframe combined with chromoly frame for optimal handling characteristics

DDS clutch system contributes to compact engine design

Precise 5-speed gearbox for smooth shifting

Electric start gets you back on track every time

 

Completely new frame design, optimised for light weight and optimal torsional rigidity

Innovative polyamide rear subframe for optimal stiffness and design flexibility incorporates all electronics and airbox – first time ever on a production 2-stroke motocross bike

Lightweight and strong chromium molybdenum frame

Lightweight cast aluminium swingarm for complete control and stability in all track conditions

High quality closed cartridge WP fork and CNC-machined triple clamps for best comfort

New high-tech 2-stroke and 4-stroke engines take Husqvarna back to the top of the performance charts

High tech EFI systems and electric start on all 4-stroke models

Stylish, sharp and modern bodywork

Quality construction and reliability

Standard equipment includes handguards and map switch

Class-leading performance in both 4-stroke and 2-stroke categories

Carefully designed and engineered ergonomics to fit riders of all sizes

Top quality components, innovative solutions and top standard equipment

 

2014 Husqvarna FC450 Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits

ENGINE

Exceptional power in a compact SOHC design layout delivers class-leading engine performance by maximising cutting-edge technology. The extremely wide power band of the FC 450’s engine allows riders to confidently tackle any track, and the high-tech engine management system combined with the super-smooth 5-speed gearbox and light clutch action, are sure to deliver race winning performance at every level.

CYLINDER HEAD

The FC 450’s engine is characterised by a single overhead cam that actuates four lightweight titanium valves via lightweight and rigid rocker arms (DLC coated on the intake). The broad power band of the FC 450 stretches to 11,500 rpm, peaking at 60 hp while maintaining exceptional torque low in the rev range. A three layer head gasket is used to guarantee durability.

PISTON

The König bridge-box-type piston was developed to reduce engine vibration and optimise strength. The compression ratio is 12.6:1 for an amazing peak output of 60 hp.

COUNTER BALANCE SHAFT

Vibrations are kept to a minimum on the FC 450 thanks to the multifunctional counter balance shaft. The side-mounted shaft cancels inertia forces and drives the water pump and timing chain, contributing to the compact layout of the engine.

FRAME

The priority in designing the frame was to meet strict performance goals while maintaining optimal torsional rigidity, longitudinal stiffness and extreme lightness, while offering excellent feedback and instilling complete confidence in the rider. To achieve their goals, the engineers designed the lightweight chromium molybdenum frame with precise longitudinal flex that helps absorb impacts from the rear wheel, working together with the suspension for better comfort and giving the rider greater feedback. The torsional rigidity, on the other hand, has been optimised to enhance turn-in, sharp handling and stability even on the roughest terrain, giving the rider complete confidence in finding his lines and increasing his pace lap after lap.

SUBFRAME

For the first time in Husqvarna’s centennial history, the engineers designed a composite rear subframe united with a chromoly frame. The three-piece composite subframe, made of high strength polyamide with a precision injection moulded production process, has been designed to offer stiffness while flexing more than an aluminium subframe, complementing the flex characteristics of the frame in order to offer optimum rider feedback and feeling in all conditions. The lightweight design offers engineers unlimited opportunities in integrating features such as all the electronics and the airbox.

SWINGARM

The design of the swingarm has been optimised according to the stiffness characteristics of the rest of the chassis. In order to give maximum rider confidence and comfort, while making the most of the Husqvarna engine characteristics in terms of traction and power, the aluminium swingarm has specific flex characteristics. The single-component casting process eliminates welding and guarantees consistent behaviour and quality. Strong but light, the beautifully styled aluminium cast swingarm provides perfect stability and safety.

BRAKES

Exceptional stopping power is guaranteed by the latest generation of Brembo brakes, featuring a new master cylinder and floating calipers in combination with 260mm wave discs at the front and 220mm wave discs at the rear. The perfectly placed controls allow for optimal feel and balance under extreme conditions.

FRONT SUSPENSION

WP suspension stands for top quality and offers the best performance levels. Adjustability is a key factor in tailoring a motorcycle according to varying requirements. With the WP forks, the ease of changing clicker settings is as simple as a twist of a dial, allowing all riders to adapt the rebound and compression damping settings to their own riding styles and track conditions. The 48mm closed cartridge front fork, matched with CNC machined black triple clamps, feature 300mm of travel and ensure exceptional handling and feel of the front end, thanks to accurate and consistent damping characteristics of the closed cartridge technology.

REAR SUSPENSION

The high performance DCC (Dual Compression Control) rear shock made by WP suspension is adjustable in rebound and high/low speed compression, and guarantees excellent comfort and world class damping. Combined with the white colour of the frame, the white spring gives the all-new Husqvarna Motocross bikes a striking appearance.

REAR LINK

The Husqvarna linkage system has excellent characteristics in fast and flowing sections. Due to its progressive characteristics it takes big hits in its stride, offering great rider comfort in all situations, even on the roughest track sections and the biggest jumps. The versatile linkage system is sure to meet the need of riders of all levels, with a consistent, confidence-inspiring and light feeling chassis in every situation.

CNC MACHINED TRIPLE CLAMPS

As on the other major components of the chassis, the CNC machined triple clamps have precisely engineered flex designed into them that allows the fork tubes to flex under stress. This gives the rider more feeling under braking and on landing off jumps. They are designed to evenly distribute the clamping force on the fork leg, maximizing contact area for optimal sensitivity and minimum friction. In addition, the handlebar can be mounted in 4 different positions.

DISTINCTIVE LOOKS

Traditional Husqvarna white, blue and yellow adorns the newly designed Motocross range, enhancing the modern styling.

ERGONOMICS

Tightly wrapped around the engine and frame, Husqvarna’s new bodywork is designed to connect the rider’s body to the bike, for a perfect fit of man and machine, allowing for total control in all conditions for the most diverse body sizes.

HANDLEBAR

Tapered 827 Renthal Fatbar handlebars feature a Renthal bar pad and are mated with Husqvarna grips for excellent control of the bike.

EQUIPMENT

Standard equipment includes handguards and map switch, as well as some of the best components on offer in the motocross segment, such as Brembo brakes and hydraulic clutch. For the die hard enthusiasts, riding pleasure and visual appeal can be further enhanced by a complete range of Husky Power accessories.

 

 

 

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2014 Husqvarna FC450 – Totalmotorcycle.com International Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $ See dealer for pricing in USD
Canada MSRP Price: $ See dealer for pricing in CDN

ENGINE
Design
1-cylinder 4-stroke engine, water-cooled

Displacement
449.3 cm³

Bore
95 mm

Stroke
63.4 mm

Starting aid
Electric starter

Transmission
5-speed, claw shifted

Engine lubrication
Forced oil lubrication with 2 Eaton pumps

Primary ratio
32:76

Secondary gear ratio
14:52

Cooling system
Liquid cooling system, continuous circulation of cooling liquid with water pump

Clutch
Wet multi-disc clutch DDS / Brembo hydraulics

Ignition system
Contactless, controlled, fully electronic ignition system with digital ignition timing adjustment

CHASSIS
Frame
Central tube frame made of chrome molybdenum steel tubing

Forks
WP Suspension Up Side Down

Shock absorber
WP Monoshock with linkage

Suspension travel Front
300 mm

Suspension travel Rear
317 mm

Brake system Front
Disc brake with four-pot brake caliper

Brake system Rear
Disc brake with one-pot brake caliper, floating brake discs

Brake discs – diameter Front
260 mm

Brake discs – diameter Rear
220 mm

Chain
520

Steering head angle
63.5°

Wheel base
1,495±10 mm

Ground clearance (unloaded)
371 mm

Seat height (unloaded)
992 mm

Total fuel tank capacity approx.
7.5 l Unleaded premium fuel (95 RON)

Weight without fuel approx.
107.6 kg

Specifications, features and prices to change by manufacturer without notice. All information correct as of posted date.