Benefitting from new WP XACT front forks for 2024, the FX 450 retains its class-leading performance and continues to headline the Husqvarna Motorcycles offroad line-up. With an engine that not only produces a broad spread of usable power, but also positions the engine shaft arrangements at the ideal centre of gravity to centralise mass, the FX 450 offers a lightweight feel for all riders. Aiding this is the chassis which has been developed and manufactured using advanced engineering techniques to offer improved anti-squat behaviour for impeccable handling and manoeuvrability. Retaining its advanced electronics and high-quality components throughout, the FX 450 is complete with a flat profile seat, ergonomic bodywork, and finished with yellow and grey graphics inspired by the Swedish heritage of the brand.
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The FX 450 engine benefits from advanced engineering techniques to deliver maximum performance. Low in weight and weighing just 26.8 kilograms, the engine is designed to centralise mass for enhanced handling and significantly improved anti-squat behaviour from the chassis. Servicing of the engine is made easier compared to previous models thanks to the addition of service markers on the engine cases. |
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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. |
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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 while maintaining its crisp responsiveness. |
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Designed for optimised mass centralisation, the FX 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. |
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The crankshaft is specifically positioned to harness the rotating mass in the ideal centre of gravity resulting in 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. |
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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 (24:72). A redesign of the shift shaft reduces the operating forces required for gear changes. Integrated into the shift drum, a new Quickshift sensor can be activated by pressing the QS marked button on the map select switch to further aid seamless upshifting. |
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The FX 450 features a dampened diaphragm steel (DDS) clutch, which 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. |
Lightweight frame
The proven chromium molybdenum steel frame is refined for 2023. A new shock mounting, which is no longer connected to the main tube, significantly improves the anti-squat behaviour of the chassis. With optimised wall thickness in high stress areas improving reliability, the frame continues to offer advanced geometries and flex characteristics aimed at providing unparalleled rider feedback, energy absorption, and exceptional straight-line stability. The frame is finished off in a premium metallic blue powder coating with redesigned standard frame protectors offering superior protection, durability, and grip in any condition. Additionally, the inclusion of forged brackets on the lower frame rails allows for easy installation of the skid plate, which is available as a technical accessory. |
Polyamide-reinforced aluminium subframe
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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.
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WP XACT front suspension
Rigorously tested by WP's research and development department, the new 48 mm WP XACT closed cartridge spring forks fitted to the FX 450 provide exceptional comfort. This is achieved by using a mid-valve piston designed to optimise oil flow and prevent foaming for consistent and predictable damping at all times. A hydrostop, active in the final 68 mm of travel, reduces the impact of harsh and high-speed landings for continued straight line stability and forward momentum. Both the compression and rebound settings can be quickly adjusted by hand using the easy access clickers.
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The WP XACT rear shock offers 300 mm of travel. Inside is a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) optimised main piston for initial comfort and provides strong hold-up in all conditions. Different sized holes in the shims allow them to open more easily, which reduces the overall stress of the oil flow. Complete with low friction SKF seals and a revised linkage system, consistent damping, comfort, and traction are guaranteed with rebound and both high and low speed compression adjustable by hand. |
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The hollow die-cast aluminium swingarm is manufactured from a single piece of aluminium using an improved die-cast production process for optimal stiffness and a 190 g weight reduction over previous generations. In order to optimise and match the flex characteristics from the frame, a 22 mm rear axle is fitted. Additionally, the chain guard and chain slider have been designed for improved durability and are less prone to catching on external objects. |
Functional bodywork
Clean, Swedish-inspired design and ergonomics are tailored to allow riders to perform at their best for extended periods of time. Adapted after countless hours of testing, the contact points and surfaces in the rider triangle have been repositioned for 2023 to improve comfort on the motorcycle. A new, flatter seat offers unrestricted movement with a high grip cover ensuring riders stay firmly in place under hard acceleration. |
Tool-less airbox
Easy access to the Twin Air filter is possible without tools, for quicker cleaning and easier maintenance. Precision inlet ducts maximise airflow and offer increased levels of filter protection.
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Hydraulic clutch
The high-performance Brembo hydraulic clutch system guarantees even wear, near maintenance-free operation and perfect modulation in every condition. Meaning that 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.
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Hydraulic brakes
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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. |
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ODI lock-on grips feature an innovative integrated throttle mechanism and a glue-free installation. The throttle assembly offers easy free-play adjustment with the option to fit alternative cams for a personalised throttle action. |
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All-new, CFD-designed footrests offer a 26.8% larger contact area to ensure better control of the machine while being less susceptible to hooking on deep ruts, take-offs when scrubbing, or trackside barriers. This was achieved by a new, narrower mounting design in the frame layout, which also helps reduce overall weight. |
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CNC-machined hubs and high-strength alloy rims by D.I.D are finished in striking black. They feature laser engraved logos and are fitted with a Dunlop Geomax MX33 tyre on the front and a Dunlop Geomax AT81 tyre on the rear. This tyre combination ensures progressive cornering and superior traction across a variety of terrain. |
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Tailored specifically to the FX 450 engine using an innovative 3D design process, the header pipe ensures maximum power across the rev range. The muffler features an aluminium mounting bracket for strength at the lowest possible weight, with an advanced internal construction ensuring excellent noise damping without sacrificing performance. |
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Manufactured from high-strength aluminium, the radiators are designed using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to channel air in the most effective way. A large centre tube channels coolant through the frame to reduce pressure at this point in the system for a more consistent flow while a new internal thermostat further enhances reliability. |
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The 8.5 litre fuel tank integrates neatly with the ergonomic bodywork. Due to the fuel pump design and position, the tank is emptied further for increased running times. For improved safety, the external fuel line is specifically routed to make it less exposed and susceptible to damage. |
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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. |
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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. |
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Traction Control on the FX 450 is engaged by pressing a 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. |
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By using the Map Select Switch, the engine characteristics can be tailored to modify the power delivery according to rider preference, conditions, and terrain. It has two settings that can be safely toggled between while riding, by simply pressing a button on the handlebar-mounted Map Select Switch. Map 1 (white) is the standard option, that delivers linear, predictable power, while map 2 (green) is more aggressive with improved throttle response and sharper, explosive power output. |
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The KEIHIN EMS is designed to be small, lightweight, and fast at processing data. It integrates Traction Control for perfect starts, selectable engine maps via the switch on the handlebar, as well as Launch Control. |
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A new hour meter comes with an integrated fuel level indicator, which is visible on the FI status LED, indicating to the rider when the fuel level is becoming low. |
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The combined engine 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 an additional stop only button from the handlebar reduces the risk of potential damage or activation in the event of a fall. |
Made from 60% polyamide and 40% aluminium, the two-piece subframe ensures exceptional strength and durability at an overall weight of just 3.9 lbs (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.
The highest level of quality is guaranteed with class-leading Brembo callipers made from single pieces of aluminium for strength at the lowest possible weight. Together with a 260 mm front and a 220 mm rear disc which offer improved dirt removal, superior stopping power and braking confidence is guaranteed in all conditions.
