2021 HUSQVARNA FC 450
R I D E R E V I E W
P84
game in the electronics department this year, too. It
now offers smartphone technology for altering en-
gine mapping, ala Yamaha. However, unlike Yamaha's
system, you have to purchase a transmitter that is built
into a Husqvarna-made handlebar pad that replaces
the stock pad. Our bike was not set up for this but still
offered the usual two-mode handlebar switch.
There are a few other notable things that set the
Husqvarna apart from the KTM. The Husky uses Magu-
ra clutch hydraulics, rather than Brembo; the Husky is
fitted with ProTaper handlebars, the KTM stiffer Neken
bars, and the rims are D.I.D opposed to Excel. The
FC's subframe is also made out of composite "plastic"
the KTM's aluminum, and their mufflers are different.
The Husky's muffler has a small screen built into it to
help smooth out power delivery.
But just because Husky might be fine-tuning the FC
450 a bit more toward the senior rider doesn't mean it
is willing to sacrifice supercross-winning performance
or have this bike labeled as a "vet" bike, Husky
still wants it to perform on a high level and
appeal to the "kids," as well. This is certainly
evident when riding the '21 FC 450.
Husky's goal with
the '21 FC 450
was to make it
easier to ride. Its
new lower stance
accomplishes that,
especially in the
turns.