Husqvarna FC 450 Rockstar Edition

Enhanced with multiple chassis refinements to take on-track performance to an even higher level, the 2024 FC 450 Rockstar Edition sets a new standard for competition-focused motocross machinery. New engine mounts, together with a revised, lighter frame and updated suspension settings improve agility and stability to create a confidence inspiring riding experience. Ergonomics are further improved with the addition of new tank shrouds while advanced rider aids, specifically chosen Technical Accessories, and the latest race team graphics complete the build of this premium machine.

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 anodised titanium body and finished with a carbon fibre end cap, the silencer is considerably lighter than standard, slightly shorter to centralise mass, and delivers a notable boost to overall performance. 

Factory Racing wheel set
Superior craftsmanship at its finest. Black anodised 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 Wheel Set contribute to the overall handling of the FC 450 Rockstar Edition thanks to the reduction in unsprung weight. 

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, 20 mm or 22 mm, 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 personalised set-up can easily be achieved.

Pro Taper 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 new Dunlop GEOMAX MX34 tyres feature a race proven 'block-within-a-block' design for progressive cornering and exceptional grip on a wide variety of racing surfaces.

Bodywork
Subtly revised tank shrouds enhance the ergonomics while creating a progressive new look. The contact points of the slim bodywork offer unrestricted movement, which allows riders to perform at their very best for extended periods of time. The high-grip GUTS Racing seat cover is now fitted over a 5 mm higher and slighter wider seat foam to keep riders firmly in place under hard acceleration. Rounding out the bodywork updates are the latest Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing graphics, which are applied using in-mold technology for a quality and durable finish. 

WP XACT front suspension
The high-performance WP XACT 48 mm split air forks feature new settings to match the revised frame and linkage, ensuring the motorcycle delivers the highest level of 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. 

WP XACT shock absorber
An updated linkage geometry, new linkage seals, and a smaller diameter bolt, refine the performance of the WP XACT shock and ensures the FC 450 Rockstar Edition remains perfectly balanced. Providing 300 mm of rear wheel travel, the shock continues to offer progressive damping, superior energy absorption, and impressive cornering agility.

Frame
New engine mounts and a revised frame reduces overall weight while improving flex characteristics and stability, which is particularly noticeable when braking into corners. The frame itself is expertly crafted from hydro-formed, laser-cut, and robot-welded steel and finished with a premium white powder coating for a true race team look. Constructed with specifically calculated parameters of longitudinal and torsional flex, the chassis provides exceptional rider feedback, energy absorption, and straight-line stability. Additionally, a 2K carbon composite skid plate is fitted to protect the frame and engine from hard impacts. 

Subframe
The composite subframe is manufactured using advanced technologies. Constructed with a blend of 60% polyamide and 40% aluminium, the subframe weighs only 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 using an improved die-casting process to reduce weight by approximately 190 grams. 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.

Engine
Producing a peak power of more than 63 hp, the SOHC, 450 cc engine is the result of advanced engineering techniques and tips the scales at just 26.8 kilograms. Mass-centralisation of the key components was key during the design process, as was repositioning the engine closer to the centre 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 behaviour from the chassis for smoother acceleration on rough terrain. 

Cylinder head
An incredibly compact SOHC cylinder head positions the camshaft as close as possible to the centre of gravity to enhance overall handling and agility. Lightweight valves are actuated via a rocker arm while the timing is designed to create impressive 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 aluminium 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.

Gearbox
Manufactured by Pankl Racing Systems, the five-speed gearbox is low in weight while offering incredible durability. A Quickshifter sensor fitted to the shift drum ensures smooth upshifts at all times while 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, protected by a 2K carbon composite front disc protector, and a 220 mm wave rear disc, the incredible stopping power created allows for late braking, which leads to faster lap times. A new, stronger rear brake pedal tip is less susceptible to damage for continued control.

Map select switch
The intuitive handlebar-mounted Map Select Switch allows riders to engage both launch and traction control, enable the Quickshifter, 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 a personalised 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 Quickshifter 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, the 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. 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 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. Additionally, Quickshift cannot be activated while Launch Control is engaged. 

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 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.