Bike Breakdown | 2020 Husqvarna FC450
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2020 HUSQVARNA FC 450 | COMPLETE CONTENT ARCHIVE
Today, Husqvarna invited the Swapmoto Live staff to join them at Milestone MX Park to take our first laps on the new 2020 FC 450. Based on the 2019.5 Rockstar Edition FC 450 that we are so very fond of, we were excited to try out the new machine. Unlike previous “special-edition-to-production” years, all of the features from the Rockstar Edition did not find their way onto the new standard model; most notably the new triple-cross hub and spoke design of the front wheel and the Akrapovic slip-on muffler. Still, several key refinements make the new 2020 model worth taking a look at, even if you are completely satisfied with your ’19 bike.
At the heart of the FC 450 is the engine, which features a single overhead cam and a short camshaft that is located as close to the bike’s center of gravity as possible. The powerplant pumps out 63 horsepower, and this year benefits from the same lightweight valve train parts that allowed the 2019.5 Rockstar Edition bike to rev more quickly with a freer feel. For 2020, the map two curve has been altered, so as to deliver a broader, more linear powerband. Map one remains the same. Of course, the FC’s popular traction control option remains.
If you’ve spent any amount of time at the pro Supercross of motocross races, you’ll already know that drilling out the airbox cover for increased airflow is a common practice among Husqvarna racers, and this year’s machine comes with two sidepanel airbox covers: one traditionally sealed unit and one that is outfitted with six aggressive louvers to help route more air to the air filter. The non-vented panel is now labeled for use in wet conditions…
Perhaps the most significant changes made to the 2020 FC 450 is in the suspension department. While Husqvarna and KTM have traditionally only differed in handlebar, subframe, and plastic, this year the two siblings come outfitted with completely different suspension settings. The Husky now has considerably softer settings, which are said to be targeted more at comfort for the average rider. A United States-specific setting in the fork and shock boasts a lighter 4.2 shock spring with stiffer valve dampening, as well as a lower recommended air pressure setting of 10.7 bar in the fork.
Love the new bike tests, especially the FC450 ;). You guys are crushing it, i personally would like to see some part/product reviews as well! Maybe a custom bike build that applies to the weekend warrior racer! Keep it up gents, thanks for supplying my daily moto media!