2023 Husqvarna FC 450 Rockstar Edition

DESCRIPTION:

Time to shine

Designed to perform at the very highest level, the FC 450 Rockstar Edition is the most competition-focused machine in Husqvarna Motorcycles' motocross line-up. The exciting model is closely based on the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing machines set to compete in the 2023 AMA Super cross season, and is enhanced for racing with specifically chosen and race-tested Technical Accessories. Equipped with advanced rider aids and featuring revised suspension settings, the FC 450 Rockstar Edition is both faster and easier to ride and comes with the latest race team replica graphics.

FEATURES:

ABSOLUTE CONTROL

• BODYWORK: With bodywork designed to enhance unrestricted movements on the motorcycle, all riders can perform at their very best for extended periods of time. The high-grip GUTS Racing seat cover ensures total control even in the harshest of riding conditions while the latest Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing graphics create a true race team replica machine.
• WP XACT SHOCK ABSORBER: In-line with the updated fork settings and to ensure the FC 450 Rockstar Edition is perfectly balanced, the WP XACT rear shock features revised shim stack settings. Providing 300 mm of rear wheel travel, the shock offers progressive damping, superior energy absorption, and impressive cornering agility.
• WP XACT FRONT SUSPENSION: The high-performance WP XACT 48 mm split air fork is updated with new shim stack settings to improve comfort, balance, and cornering agility. With oil and air bypasses reducing pressure peaks, in combination with a midvalve damping system, the fork provides exceptional feedback from the front wheel. A hydrostop system creates a more progressive damping force in the final 40 mm of travel for improved bottoming resistance on hard landings.
• FRAME: Black powder coated for a true race team look, the hydro-formed, laser-cut, and robot-welded steel frame is expertly crafted. Constructed with specifically calculated parameters of longitudinal and torsional flex, the chassis provides exceptional rider feedback, energy absorption, and straight-line stability. Large footrests are mounted closer to the centre of the motorcycle and help maintain forward momentum through deep ruts. Additionally, a new 2K carbon composite skid plate is fitted to protect the frame and engine from hard impacts while minimizing weight.
• SUBFRAME: The composite subframe is manufactured using advanced technologies. Constructed with a blend of 60% polyamide and 40% aluminium, the subframe weighs only 3.9 pounds (1.8 kilograms) and is incredibly durable. Designed with the assistance of computational dynamics, specific rigidity has been engineered into the subframe to enhance overall handling and rider comfort.
• SWINGARM: The aluminium swingarm has been designed to ensure optimal stiffness and durability. Further accentuating the revised flex characteristics from the chassis, a 22 mm rear axle is fitted. Additionally, the chain guard and glider have a smooth profile and offer outstanding durability.

ADVANCED ELECTRONICS

• MAP SELECT SWITCH: The intuitive handlebar-mounted map select switch allows riders to engage both launch and traction control, enable the Quickshift functionality, and activate one of two engine maps. The easy-to-operate map select switch allows racers to quickly alter the engine characteristics on a race-by-race basis depending on track conditions and rider preference.
• MAPPING: For personalized power delivery, the FC 450 Rockstar Edition has two built-in engine maps as standard, which can be selected and engaged via the map select switch. Map 1 offers linear, predictable power while Map 2 is more aggressive for a sharper throttle response and a more explosive power output.
• QUICKSHIFTER: The Quickshift function can be activated via the map select switch and works by interrupting the ignition for a fraction of a second for smooth and precise gear changes, even when the throttle is fully open. To help prevent selecting neutral, Quickshifter is only active from second gear upwards.
• TRACTION CONTROL: Traction control on the FC 450 Rockstar Edition is engaged by pressing the 'TC' button on the map select switch. 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 and slippery conditions.
• LAUNCH CONTROL: With the engine at idle, Launch Control is engaged by pressing the Traction Control and Quickshift buttons simultaneously. Both symbols will start flashing to indicate that Launch Control is activated. Designed for race starts, this technology limits the amount of power to the rear wheel, improving traction, and helps to prevent loss of control under hard acceleration. Once a gear change is made, Launch Control deactivates automatically. Quickshift must be activated before Launch Control to use Quickshift during starts.
• ELECTRIC START AND LI-ION BATTERY: Keeping overall weight to a minimum and ensuring fast, reliable starting, the Li-Ion 2.0 Ah battery fitted to the FC 450 Rockstar Edition is approximately 2.2 lb (1 kg) lighter than a conventional lead battery. Additionally, the electric start and engine stop buttons are located inside the same housing for a simplified experience.

FINEST COMPONENTRY

• FMF TITANIUM EXHAUST: As used by Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing in AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross competition, the FMF Factory 4.1 RCT silencer is a championship-winning component. Beautifully crafted with a blue anodized titanium body and finished with a carbon fibre end cap, the silencer is considerably lighter than standard and delivers a notable boost to overall performance.
• FACTORY RACING TRIPLE CLAMPS: Featuring a unique clamping design for perfect fork alignment and uncompromised suspension performance, the CNC-machined Factory Racing triple clamps are fully adjustable to offer true customisation. With a choice of two offset positions as well as the option to install the handlebars with rubber mounts for added comfort, or without for a more precise front-end feel, a personalized set-up can easily be achieved.
• FACTORY RACING WHEEL SET: Superior craftsmanship at its finest. Black anodized EXCEL Takasago rims laced to black CNC-machined hubs using high-quality spokes create an exceptionally strong pair of wheels. Not only incredibly robust, but the weight savings achieved with the Factory Racing Wheel Set contribute to the overall handling of the FC 450 Rockstar Edition thanks to the reduction in unsprung weight.
• PROTAPER HANDLEBAR: Second to none when it comes to function and style, the ProTaper handlebar is lightweight and incredibly strong. The specifically selected bar bend reduces pressure points on the rider's hands with soft compound ODI lock-on grips offering additional comfort.
• TYRES: Delivering best-in-class performance, the Dunlop GEOMAX MX33 Motocross tires feature a race proven 'block-within-a-block' design for progressive cornering and exceptional grip on a wide variety of racing surfaces.

UNPARALLELED PERFORMANCE

• ENGINE: The SOHC, 450 cc engine is the result of advanced engineering techniques and tips the scales at just 59 pounds (26.8 kilograms). Mass-centralization of the key components was key during the design process, as was repositioning the engine closer to the center of gravity for improved handling and agility. This was achieved by tilting the engine 2 degrees backwards, which resulted in the countershaft sprocket being positioned 3 mm lower. The end result is significantly improved anti-squat behavior from the chassis for smoother acceleration on rough terrain.
• CYLINDER HEAD: Featuring a redesigned and incredibly compact SOHC cylinder head that places the camshaft as close as possible to the center of gravity, overall handling and agility is significantly enhanced. Complete with lightweight valves actuated via a rocker arm, the timing is designed to create improved torque and a precise throttle response. Connecting the head to the chassis, parallel frame mounts improve the chassis flex characteristics while retaining unrivalled stability.
• CYLINDER & PISTON: Weighing just 327 grams, the lightweight aluminum cylinder is an engineering masterpiece. Inside the 95 mm bore, the CP bridged-box-type piston features anodized annular grooves for added durability and longer service intervals. For improved peak performance, the compression ratio has been increased to 13.1:1.
• GEARBOX: The Pankl Racing Systems five-speed gearbox maintains its low weight and incredible durability. The Quickshift sensor fitted to the shift drum ensures smoother upshifts, even when the engine is under heavy load. A low-friction coating on the shifting fork further enhances positive gear changes.
• DDS CLUTCH: The FC 450 Rockstar Edition is equipped with a DDS (Dampened Diaphragm Steel) clutch. Unique in design, the exclusive characteristics of this system include a single diaphragm steel pressure plate, instead of traditional coil springs, with an integrated damping system for better traction and durability. Complete with a CNC-machined steel clutch basket adapted for the five-speed transmission, the single-piece component allows the use of thin steel liners and contributes to the compact design of the engine.
• BREMBO BRAKES: Brembo brakes deliver class-leading braking performance. With a 260 mm floating front disc and a 220 mm wave rear disc, the incredible stopping power allows for late braking, which leads to faster lap times. For added protection, a new 2K carbon composite front disc protector is fitted.