2023 Husqvarna FX 450

Effortless Ergonomics

• BODYWORK: Clean, Swedish-inspired design and ergonomics are tailored to deliver exceptional comfort and control, enabling riders to perform at their best for extended periods of time. Adapted after countless hours of testing, the contact points have been repositioned for 2023 and together with a flatter seat profile, riders can move freely on the motorcycle for total control at all times.
• TOOL-LESS AIRBOX: Easy access to the TWIN AIR filter is possible without tools, for quicker cleaning and easier maintenance. Precision inlet ducts maximize airflow and offer increased levels of filter protection.
• 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.
• HYDRAULIC BRAKES: The highest level of quality is guaranteed with class-leading Brembo calipers made from single pieces of aluminum for strength at the lowest possible weight. Together with a 260 mm front and a 220 mm rear disc removing dirt efficiently, superior stopping power and braking confidence is guaranteed in all conditions.
• PROTAPER HANDLEBAR: 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. Fitted to the handlebar as standard are our open handguards for added protection in the demanding off-road environments.
• ODI GRIPS: 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 personalized throttle action.
• FOOTRESTS: 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.

Faster And Wiser

• ENGINE: The FX 450 engine benefits from advanced engineering techniques to deliver maximum performance. For 2023, the engine is tilted two degrees backwards for significantly improved anti-squat behavior from the chassis while further aiding the centralization of mass for improved overall handling. Servicing of the FX 450 engine is made easier compared to previous models thanks to the addition of service markers on the engine cases. Lighter for 2023, the 450 cc 4-stroke engine weighs just 59 lb.
• CYLINDER HEAD: The redesigned SOHC cylinder head is incredibly compact with the camshaft positioned as close to the center of gravity as possible for significantly improved handling and agility. A new, more durable fine punched cam chain runs on low-friction chain guides for optimal efficiency and improved reliability with a single oil spray jet guaranteeing 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 aluminum 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 anodized annular grooves, adding durability and longer service intervals at a weight of just 327 g. For improved performance, the compression ratio has been increased to 13.1:1 to create an incredible peak power while maintaining its crisp responsiveness.
• CRANKCASES: Designed for optimized mass centralization, 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.
• DDS CLUTCH: The FX 450 features a (DDS) Dampened Diaphragm Steel 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, which has been revised to accommodate the new gearbox in 2023, and continues to allow the use of thin steel liners that contribute to the compact design of the engine.
• CRANKSHAFT: The crankshaft is specifically positioned to harness the rotating mass in the ideal center 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 450cc plant. A plain big end bearing comprising of two force-fitted bearing shells ensure maximum reliability and durability, guaranteeing long service intervals of 90 hours.
• GEARBOX: Produced by PANKL RACING SYSTEMS, the new 5-speed gearbox is designed to be extremely light and durable with a revised transmission ratio of 29:72 offering smooth and precise shifting. Integrated on the shift drum, a new quickshift sensor can be activated on the map select switch to further enhance clutchless upshifting.

Master Your Art

• WHEELS AND TYRES: 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 DUNLOP GEOMAX AT81 tyre on the rear which ensure progressive cornering and superior traction on a variety of terrain.
• EXHAUST SYSTEM: 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 aluminum mounting bracket for strength at the lowest possible weight, with an advanced internal construction ensuring excellent noise damping without sacrificing performance.
• COOLING SYSTEM: Manufactured from high-strength aluminum, the radiators are designed using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to channel air in the most effective way. A large center 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.
• FUEL TANK: A new 2.24 gallon fuel tank integrates neatly into the revised bodywork. Due to the new 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.

Ride Easier

• FRAME: The proven chromium molybdenum steel frame is refined for 2023 to reposition rotational masses inside the engine which together with a new shock mounting position, significantly improves anti-squat behavior of the chassis. With optimized 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 standard skid plate.
• POLYAMIDE-REINFORCED ALUMINIUM SUBFRAME: Made from 60% polyamide and 40% aluminum, the new two-piece subframe for 2023 ensures exceptional strength and durability at an overall weight of just 3.9 lb. The lower subframe spars and frame mounts are manufactured from cast aluminum 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.
• TRIPLE CLAMPS: Matching the new frame design and suspension set-up, the CNC-machined triple clamps provide precisely calculated geometry for increased stability. Customized handlebar flex can be achieved by the new 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.
• WP XACT FRONT SUSPENSION: The 48 mm split air WP XACT forks now offer improved bottoming resistance thanks to a new hydrostop, which applies a progressive damping force in the last 40 mm of travel for even greater comfort. The WP forks are designed with a capsulated, adjustable air spring and pressurized oil chamber for smooth action and consistent damping. Oil and air bypasses reduce pressure peaks and in combination with a midvalve damping system, the forks provide precise feedback to the rider. The settings are easily adjusted via the single air pressure pre-load valve, as well as through easy access click adjusters for compression and rebound. For improved durability, new fork protection rings prevent dirt intrusion. Additionally, the air pump needed to adjust the fork's air pressure is provided as standard.
• SWINGARM: The new hollow die-cast aluminum swingarm is manufactured from a single piece of aluminum using an improved die-cast production process for optimal stiffness and a 190 g weight reduction over previous versions. In order to optimize and match the flex characteristics from the new frame, a new 22 mm rear axle is fitted. Additionally, the chain guard and chain slider have been completely redesigned for improved durability and are less prone to catching on external objects.
• WP XACT REAR SUSPENSION: An all-new design results in a 15 mm shorter rear shock, which is 100 g lighter compared to the previous generation while the rear wheel travel is set at 293 mm. Inside the shock is a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) optimized main piston for improved initial comfort which 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 now adjustable by hand.

Technologically Advanced

• MAP SELECT SWITCH: A redesigned and intuitive handlebar-mounted map select switch allows riders to activate launch and traction control, 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.
• QUICKSHIFT: The new quickshift function can be activated or deactivated via the map select switch. The function works only when upshifting, interrupting the ignition for a fraction of a second. This allows upshifting while the throttle is fully open without the use of the clutch. A sensor on the shift drum registers the force from the shift lever, sends the signal to the ECU and the ignition timing is interrupted. To prevent unintended shifts and false neutrals, the function is only active from second gear upwards.
• MAPPING: For personalized power delivery, the FX 450 has two built-in engine maps as standard. Map 1 offers linear, predictable power, while Map 2 is more aggressive for a sharper throttle response and more explosive power output.
• E-START: As with all 4-strokes in the Husqvarna range, the FX 450 starts with the ease of pressing a button thanks to electric start. A lightweight Li-Ion 2.0 Ah battery is fitted, giving the convenience of electric starting while keeping overall weight to a minimum.
• ENGINE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM: 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.
• START/STOP SWITCH: The new 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, 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.
• HOUR METER: 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.
• TRACTION CONTROL: Traction control on the FX 450 is engaged by a button marked 'TC' on the Map Select Switch and functions by analyzing 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.