VOLUME 56 ISSUE 42 OCTOBER 22, 2019 P111
In the power department, the Husqvar-
na also received some tuning changes
by way of an updated Map 2 (aggres-
sive) and a vented airbox cover that lets
the FC 450 breathe freer. The Husky's
vented airbox cover isn't quite as open as
the KTM's (so you might still be tempted
to take a drill to it), but the changes give
a little more oomph to the almost boringly
smooth power delivery. With a quiet and
dignified characteristic, the Husky pours
on power in a graceful manner, in what is
a very useable range. The smooth-talking
engine goes hand in hand with the sup-
ple suspension, which seems to define
the role that the Husky is intended to play
in the Austrian duo: the distinguished
gentleman to the elite competitor.
Still, just enough of our testers felt the
Husqvarna had the versatility and the
performance to outgun the orange bike.
"The power on the Husqvarna is slightly
easier to control than the KTM," said
one tester. "The bike is also quieter,
which makes it 'sound' slower than the
KTM, but the speed is definitely there,
as I found out when mistiming some
corner entries." Another tester com-
mented that the Husky feels like it has
more bottom while the KTM has more
top, adding that both Austrian bikes
have less engine braking, and more
freewheel, which contributes to the
smooth power feel.
In the fit and finish department, it
doesn't get much better than this. Along
with its choice components such as the
ProTaper bar, Magura hydraulic clutch,
ODI grips, Brembo brakes, the FC 450
also comes with two choices of airbox
covers (vented and standard, like the
KTM) and two throttle cams (again, like
the KTM) so you can alter the pull at the
grip to suit your preference. Add in the
switchable maps, two levels of trac-
tion control, and fully adjustable airfork
suspension, and it amounts to an ex-
ceptional overall package that makes it
feel like a good bang for your buck. And
those bucks had better bang, now that
the Husqvarna has stepped over the
threshold into the five-digit price range.
Ride Review:
2020 Husqvarna FC 450
https://magazine.cyclenews.
com/i/1139968-cycle-news-2019-is-
sue-27-july-9/76
