2019 DUAL-SPORT SHOOTOUT
COMPARISON
P86
2019
HUSQVARNA
FE 450
Husqvarna comes into the test with the only
other 450-sized displacement machine. But
it really couldn't be much more different than
the Honda CRF450L. The Husqvarna is a
competition model carefully outfitted with the
proper equipment to pass on-road regulation.
It has racing seeping from its side panels and
its ergonomics almost beg you to lay it into
turns or let the rear end drift around corners.
It's a predictable chassis off-road with good
suspension action across the board. It doesn't
enjoy the Honda's full-spectrum of suspension
performance, but it is performing right down the
middle very well—providing aggressive riding
hold-up and stability with slight compromises in
initial bump compliance comfort.
Its parent brand KTM has the most experience
in modifying an off-road platform into a dual-
sport, and Husqvarna enjoys the benefits of that
experience. It is, however, not a KTM clone.
There are enough unique features on the
FE 450 that it really stands out in this test. For
one, the chassis of the Husqvarna features a
rear shock linkage. The link-mounted suspen-
sion is the most polarizing difference in the
off-road world between KTMs and Husqvarnas
in this class. Most off-road traditionalists in our
crew would rather have non-linkage, PDS rear
suspension for the more technical terrain as
it's less likely to hang up on obstacles and has
fewer moving parts. It's also lighter, overall than
linkage and a lot of people love the PDS sus-
pension action. The airbox and subframe on the
Husqvarna is also different, but on these bikes,
the performance difference isn't too noticeable.
What is noticeable is the Husqvarna's great
handling character when being pushed out of
most bike's comfort zones. It thrives in techni-
There isn't much
not to like about
the Husqvarna
FE 450. It's
light enough for
extra curricular
activities, such
as this.
