Just a few days after KTM revealed its all-new Factory Edition 450 for the US market to make it legal for AMA Sueprcross, sister company Husqvarna has followed suit. Like the KTM Factory Edition, the new Husqvarna FC450 ROCKSTAR EDITION has an all-new chassis, major engine revamps and new bodywork. And it’s lighter, too.

The engine features an updated cooling system, and a Pankl gearbox and a new exhaust system. Designed with the goal of offering increased rigidity, the stiffened frame works in collaboration with a 0.5 lb (250g) lighter subframe and a stiffer upper triple clamp. A series of special parts such as a carbon fibre skid plate, a Rekluse billet clutch cover, updated ProTaper handlebars and a standard holeshot device strengthen the link to the team’s factory machines.

Like the KTM, the Husky will be on sale in very limited numbers in the USA only. A production version, without all the bolt-on accessories, is likely to be available worldwide in early summer as a 2019 model
Husky say the redesigned bodywork takes design and functionality to a new level, but already it’s been criticised for its bulky looks. What do you think?