SHOOTOUT I 2023 450cc MOTOCROSS SHOOTOUT
P96
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Up next is the Husqvarna
FC 450. Third- through
fifth-place were the closest in
the test with all three positions
nearly tying in our overall
points system, which we use
to help us rank the bikes. So
again, consider it our opinion
since this next pack could likely
be interchanged with different
riders or a wider variety of track
conditions.
The Husky is one of three all-
new bikes in the lineup. This can
be a blessing or a curse, and a
manufacturer rarely nails a new-
gen design in their first model
year. The Husqvarna receives
polarizing results as it's either
loved or hated depending on the
rider at the controls. It ranked as
high as second and as low as
sixth in our individual results.
One thing we all agreed on is
the smoothness of the overall
package. Like the foaming
brim of your favorite latte, the
Husqvarna is velvety smooth
from the first sip. This new en
-
gine offers excellent delivery but
retains the classic long-revving
character that the Austrian
powerplants are known for. This
is also where a difference from
the KTM lies, as the Husqvarna's
airbox is slightly different for a
bit calmer engine character. You
can carry gears longer on these
bikes and don't need to waste
energy shifting all over the track.
In the same vein, it never feels
like "too much" or like it will get
away from you. The bike's so
smooth, in fact, that the more
aggressive green map two was
almost unanimously favored.
On the other hand, the traction
control and quickshifter were
noted as cool add-ons but not
necessary items.
>>FIFTH PLACE
HUSVARNA
FC 450
