Husqvarna FC250

Hailed as the highest performing 250 cc 4-stroke motocross machine on the market, the latest generation FC 250 receives multiple technical upgrades for 2023 to retain its place at the head of the field. Housed inside an all-new frame, a compact, lighter, redesigned engine features a revised Pankl gearbox ensuring smoother gear changes with a new quickshifter further aiding upshifts, even under heavy load. A new cylinder and CP piston increase the compression ratio to 14.5:1 for improved torque and peak performance on track. Completing the changes for 2023, striking white, yellow, and grey graphics are applied using in-mould technology for an outstanding and long-lasting finish.

Engine

Engineered to ensure class-leading performance and handling characteristics, all major engine components and shaft arrangements are carefully positioned closer to the centre of gravity to reduce the effects of rotational inertia. Tilted two degrees backwards to further centralise mass, the 250 cc 4-stroke engine is also 60 g lighter for 2023, tipping the scales at just over 26 kg. The FC 250 engine remains remarkably powerful with an increased power output and impressive torque to suit riders of all abilities.

DOHC cylinder head

Featuring finger followers treated with a Diamond-like Carbon (DLC) coating, the DOHC cylinder head is engineered for high-level performance and further refined for 2023 with multiple revisions to improve performance and durability. The titanium intake valves remain at 32.5 mm while the exhaust valves increase in size to 27.5 mm - a direct result of the new bore/stroke ratio, which in turn optimises gas flow. These revisions allow the FC 250 to rev freely and produce strong and efficient power throughout the rev range up to its 14,000 rpm limit.

Cylinder and piston

A new 81 mm bore houses a forged bridged-box-type piston made by CP, which weighs just 150 g. High strength aluminium is used to manufacture both the cylinder and piston, with both components professionally engineered for outstanding performance and reliability. The stroke has been adapted to 48.5 mm to match the resized cylinder, boosting the compression ratio to 14.5:1 and adding further torque and peak performance to the FC 250.

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

Made from 60% polyamide and 40% aluminium, the new two-piece subframe for 2023 ensures exceptional strength and durability at an overall weight of just 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.

CNC machined triple clamps

Matching the new frame design and suspension set-up, the CNC-machined triple clamps provide precisely calculated geometry for increased stability. Customised 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 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.

WP XACT shock absorber

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) optimised 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.

Swingarm

The new 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 versions. In order to optimise 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 hooking 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.

Airbox

Designed with precisely positioned inlet ducts aimed at reducing drag and air flow deformation, the airbox ensures unrestricted airflow with maximum filter protection. The TWIN AIR filter is easily accessed without tools, by simply removing the left side panel for easy maintenance. Offering further performance customisation, the FC 250 is delivered with an additional airbox cover that can be changed without the use of any tools for a sharper throttle response according to rider preference or track conditions.

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.

Wheels and tyres

Assembled with CNC-machined hubs, strong spokes, and black-anodised alloy rims by D.I.D, the wheels of the FC 250 are fitted with DUNLOP GEOMAX MX33 Motocross tyres which feature a proven block-within-a-block design for more progressive cornering and superior grip. For improved on-track agility and stability through ruts, the FC 250 is fitted with a 110/90-19 rear tyre while a 80/100-21 front tyre ensures optimal grip on a variety of riding surfaces.

Exhaust system

Designed from lightweight aluminium, the exhaust system on the FC 250 features a flow-designed resonance chamber that is integrated into the header pipe. The silencer has a short and compact design, delivering impressive power output while keeping decibels as low as possible.

Cooling system

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.

Fuel tank

A new and bigger 7.2 litre 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.

Map select switch

A redesigned and intuitive handlebar-mounted map select switch allows riders to activate launch and traction control, enable the new quickshift functionality, 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.

Traction Control

Traction control on the FC 250 is engaged by 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.