Cycle News

Cycle News 2020 Issue 31 August 4

Cycle News is a weekly magazine that covers all aspects of motorcycling including Supercross, Motocross and MotoGP as well as new motorcycles

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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.

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