2025 450 MX Bike Shootout | In Depth

The 2025 Husqvarna FC 450

 SIXTH PLACE: 2025 Husqvarna FC 450

TEST RIDER SCORES: 6-6-6-5-5

As it has for several model years, the Pierer Group has distinguished its three motorcycle offerings with different settings and features that appeal to different consumers. The Husqvarna maintains its friendlier powerband and lower suspension settings that yield a lower center of gravity. The Husky received the updated chassis that we loved on the 2024.5 Rockstar Edition, and it allows the bike to handle with greater precision and feel in the rough sections of the track, especially entering corners. The 10mm lower suspension settings yield a surprisingly noticeable difference in the way the bike feels. While the lower center of gravity is nice while tipping into corners and especially in flat, sweeping, turns, its overall feel lacks the plushness and small-bump compliance of its longer-legged brethren. The Husqvarna also packs a softer punch, due to its unique subframe and resulting airbox configuration. Not slow by any means, the FC powerband is simply less abrupt and is, in fact, easier to control for some riders. 

Alex Ray on the Husqvarna FC 450.

“The Husqvarna shines for someone looking for a strong engine with good midrange power and a fast top-end pull, but introduced with a smooth and controllable low-end hit. This is a great bike for many riders.” – Pat Foster

“I only notice that the Husqvarna has a lower feel when I ride it back-to-back with the KTM and Gas Gas. While it does corner nicely, the harsh feel of an air fork seems to be exaggerated by the shorter wheel travel.” – Donn Maeda

“I felt like this bike was made for me as I was 100% comfortable on it right away. I appreciated the smooth and friendly powerband as it was easy to control, and the lower suspension was good for me because I am not the tallest.” – Eric Mascho

“This is the only bike I cannot get comfortable on. The bike feels cramped and the suspension is harsh and lacks comfort. Power-wise, the bike is slower than the KTM but it is easy to control and put power to the ground with.” – Kyle Puerner

“The Husky is a lot closer to the ground than the other bikes and I felt my feet drag a time or two. The air fork lacks holdup and both ends are set up on the softer side. This year the power between the three Austrian bikes is closer. The FC is not exciting, but it makes decent power. – Alex Ray

TEST RIDER HITS

Strong powerband with controllable power delivery. Map 2 is suitable for faster and aggressive riders.

The new Husky bodywork is smooth and seamless. We especially like the new right side panel which eliminates the ridiculous shock cover of the previous model.

Lower suspension settings produce a lower center of gravity that allows the bike to tip into corners nicely.

Pro Taper bars are the best in the class. Comfortable bend and excellent vibration damping. 

New graphics are simple and stylish.

TEST RIDER MISSES

Suspension is soft and has a harsh feel because it is riding lower in the stroke.

The engine vibration at high RPM is quite noticeable.

The combo start/kill switch can be confusing in a racing situation and the buttons are also hard to engage.

Softer nature of the engine gives the bike a heavier feel on the track.