Husqvarna has revealed its 2019-and-a-half FC 450 that will form the basis of the factory machine Jason Anderson will use to defend his AMA Supercross crown and is likely to be the bike that the 2020 production machine is based on.
AMA rules state all bikes must be production based, so Husqvarna and KTM annually make a batch of bikes with the latest technology to use in Supercross and legally have to offer a minimum of 450 for sale. These bikes often have the sane technology as the forthcoming standard bikes.
Last year Anderson had a 450 with the new frame, bodywork, engine and suspension that made it onto the 2019 production machine. The bike was totally different to the stock 2018 450. But the new Rockstar Edition does not look to have any massive, obvious changes.
Husky’s official release says:Husqvarna Motorcycles are proud to launch the FC 450 ROCKSTAR EDITION model year 2019, a thrilling new production model that forms the basis of the bikes to be used by Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s AMA Supercross Champions Jason Anderson and Zach Osborne throughout the 2019 season.
Collecting feedback from the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing team and their championship-winning riders, Husqvarna Motorcycles engineers have combined this competition data with extensive testing and development to introduce a list of vital upgrades. The new FC 450 ROCKSTAR EDITION features the latest in engine and chassis developments, ensuring this state-of-the-art machine offers unrivalled on-track performance.
This second edition of the FC 450 ROCKSTAR EDITION continues to pay tribute to a highly successful collaboration between Husqvarna Motorcycles and their global partner Rockstar Energy Drink. Produced in limited numbers, the all-new FC 450 ROCKSTAR EDITION will be available worldwide from January onwards.
BUILT FOR COMPETITION
At the leading edge of motocross development, Husqvarna Motorcycles introduce a series of considered upgrades to the FC 450 ROCKSTAR EDITION. With the distinctive bodywork receiving new graphics, the end result clearly showcases the direction of Husqvarna Motorcycles’ pioneering development.
Replicating the advanced engine technology used by the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing team in their championship-winning machines, the FC 450 ROCKSTAR EDITION model year 2019 features a new CP forged box-in-box piston and a new Pankl conrod. Providing reduced friction, the new piston and conrod ensure the SOHC engine continues to offer the highest level of performance and reliability available in the market today.
The all-new FC 450 ROCKSTAR EDITION machine features FMF Racing’s Factory 4.1 RCT silencer. The new exhaust system has a blue anodized titanium body and a carbon end cap. In addition, it offers a shorter overall length that makes it less susceptible to damage. Moving the silencer closer to the engine also aids mass centralisation.
Made from high-grade aluminium, the all-new CNC-machined triple clamps feature optimally tuned steering stem stiffness as well as perfect alignment of the fork tubes for highly responsive and smooth fork action. Maximum gains in handling are provided by easy offset adjustment between 20 or 22 mm.
The list of upgrades is completed with a new set of anodized D.I.D DirtStar rims and anodized machined hubs. Offering maximum weight savings, this premium-quality combination ensures maximum strength and reduced weight. Tailored to the needs of every aspiring motocross racer, the new FC 450 ROCKSTAR EDITION features a carbon fibre reinforced engine protector and a mechanical holeshot device as standard.
FC 450 ROCKSTAR EDITION – HIGHLIGHTS
=>Compact SOHC engine providing class-leading performance
=>New CP box-in-box piston & new Pankl conrod
=>Hydro-formed frame with black premium powder coating
=>CNC-machined triple clamps with adjustable offset [20 – 22 mm]
=>Composite 2-piece subframe design
=>Carbon fibre reinforced engine protector
=>48 mm WP split air fork that is fully adjustable
=>Mechanical holeshot device as standard
=>High-quality Magura clutch system
=>New FMF Racing Factory 4.1 silencer
=>High-quality ProTaper handlebar
=>New anodised D.I.D DirtStar rims & hubs
=>Selectable map switch also activating launch & traction control
=>Electric starter powered by a lightweight Li-Ion 2.0 Ah battery
=>Advanced bodywork with specifically-tailored ergonomics
True to the brand’s commitment to continued development of its premium machines, Husqvarna Motorcycles’ engineers have combined feedback collected from Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing team riders and together with extensive testing introduced a long list of upgrades to the FC 450 ROCKSTAR EDITION. Featuring further engine and chassis advances and fitted with new CNC-machined triple clamps, anodized D.I.D DirtStar rims and an FMF Racing Factory 4.1 silencer, this new machine sets the benchmark in terms of handling, weight and performance.
Among the list of upgrades featured on the 2019 FC 450 ROCKSTAR EDITION are a new CP forged box-in-box piston and a new PANKL conrod. Providing reduced friction, the new piston and conrod ensure the SOHC engine continues to offer the highest level of performance and reliability available in the market today.
Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing team graphics and a series of special parts such as the carbon fibre skid plate and the standard holeshot device strengthen the link to the team’s machines and ensure the new FC 450 ROCKSTAR EDITION offers race-winning performance and aesthetics straight out of the showroom.
FC 450 ROCKSTAR EDITION – HIGHLIGHTS IN DETAIL
Combining cutting-edge technology with a series of specific, race-orientated engine and chassis upgrades, Husqvarna Motorcycles’ engineers have ensured that the 2019 FC 450 ROCKSTAR EDITION sets the benchmark in terms of handling, power, weight and aesthetics.
FRAME
The hydro-formed, laser-cut and robot-welded frame is expertly constructed with specifically calculated parameters of longitudinal and torsional flex. The FC 450 ROCKSTAR EDITION frame is finished off in a premium black powder coating. A carbon fibre reinforced skid plate and frame protectors guarantee superior protection and durability.
- • Optimized longitudinal rigidity → improved feedback, energy absorption and stability
- • Produced to the highest quality standards
- • Durable finish with standard skid plate and frame protectors
COMPOSITE CARBON FIBER SUBFRAME
Showcasing pioneering technologies and innovation the composite subframe is a design unique to Husqvarna Motorcycles. Using 70% polyamide and 30% carbon fibre, the two-piece subframe design is incredibly light for a total weight of just over one kilogram. Apart from being robust, specific care is taken to create the perfect rigidity for optimal handling and rider comfort.
- • Carbon fibre composite construction → lightweight and robust
- • Specific rigidity → optimal handling and comfort
WP XACT FRONT FORK
With new settings for 2019, the FC 450 ROCKSTAR EDITION 48 mm split air fork features a capsuled air spring and pressurised oil chamber for progressive and consistent damping. Damping is easily adjusted via the single air pressure valve for pre-load (on the left) as well as easy access clickers adjusting damping with 30 clicks (on the right). Additionally, the air pump needed to adjust the air pressure in the fork is provided as standard. Standard on the FC 450 ROCKSTAR EDITION, the mechanical holeshot device compresses the front forks and decreases front wheel lift right off the start.
- • Precision engineering by WP → highest performance levels
- • Capsuled air spring and pressurised oil chamber → progressive and consistent damping
- • Easy access clicker dials → simple and fast clicker settings
- • Mechanical holeshot device standard on the FC 450 ROCKSTAR EDITION
NEW CNC-MACHINED TRIPLE CLAMPS
Made from high-grade aluminium, the new CNC-machined triple clamps feature optimally tuned steering stem stiffness, perfect alignment of the fork tubes and precise geometry of the fork clamps ensures highly responsive and smooth fork action. Maximum gains in handling are provided by simple offset adjustment of 20 or 22 mm.
- • CNC aluminium → finest quality and reliability
- • Perfect clamping and alignment → smooth fork action
- • Adjustable handlebar position → adjustable ergonomics
BRAKES
The highest level of quality is guaranteed with class-leading Brembo callipers and levers. The 260 mm floating front and 220 mm solid rear discs deliver superior stopping power instilling confidence in all conditions. A front disc protector is fitted as standard.
- • Brembo brake callipers and high-performance discs → superior stopping power with greater control and confidence
PROTAPER HANDLEBAR
The ProTaper handlebar is second to none for function and style. Manufactured to exacting standards, it features class-leading fatigue resistance, features an optimized bend for comfort, while adding minimal weight.
- • ProTaper handlebar → class-leading function and style
NEW FMF RACING FACTORY 4.1 SILENCER
The Factory 4.1 RCT silencer incorporates the latest in FMF Resonance Chamber Technology™ and features a blue anodized titanium body with a carbon end cap. In addition, it offers a shorter overall length that is less susceptible to damage and moves the muffler closer to the engine to centralise mass. The Factory 4.1 RCT is constructed from only aerospace grade materials that meet exacting specifications.
- • FMF Factory 4.1 RCT silencer → light weight, optimal performance
- • Shorter overall length → centralized mass, less susceptible to damage
ELECTRIC START WITH LI-ION BATTERY
Along with the benefit of an easy electric starting system, a Li-Ion 2.0 Ah battery is fitted to the FC 450 ROCKSTAR EDITION. The Li-Ion battery weighs approximately one kilogram less than a conventional lead battery, offering the convenience of electric starting while overall weight is being kept to a minimum.
- • Electric starter → easy starting when time is critical
- • Li-Ion battery → lightweight, 1 kg lighter than a conventional battery
NEW D.I.D DIRTSTAR RIMS
Black high-strength anodized rims by D.I.D are coupled to CNC-machined hubs using lightweight spokes and blue anodized aluminium nipples to offer maximum weight savings and optimised handling and stability in challenging terrain.
- • Lightweight but strong and reliable construction → minimum unsprung weight
GEARBOX
The lightweight 5-speed gearbox produced by PANKL ensures the highest level of durability and reliability. The gear lever features a design that prevents dirt build-up and keeps the lever tip in its original position even in the toughest conditions. An advanced gear sensor selects a specific engine map tailored for each gear.
- • 5-speed gearbox → smooth and precise shifting
- • Integrated gear sensor → specific engine maps for each gear
MAGURA HYDRAULIC CLUTCH
The reliable, high quality, German-made clutch system guarantees even wear, near maintenance-free operation and perfect action in every condition. Clutch play is constantly compensated so that the pressure point and function of the clutch remain identical in cold or hot conditions, as well as over time.
- • Magura hydraulic clutch → perfect action in every condition
MAP SWTICH & LAUNCH CONTROL
Optimised for easy operation the map switch offers the possibility to change between two different engine maps and activates launch control. With the engine at idle, launch control is engaged by pressing both TC and MAP buttons simultaneously for about two seconds. The LED lamp will blink continuously meaning the system is active. This function limits the amount of power to the rear wheel, improving traction and preventing loss of control under hard acceleration.
- • Standard handlebar map switch → alter engine characteristics according to conditions and rider preference
- • Launch control → maximum traction for perfect starts
TRACTION CONTROL
Traction control can be selected to an on or off position from the switch. It functions by analysing throttle input from the rider and the rate at which RPM increases in the engine. If the RPM increases too quickly, the EMS registers a loss of grip and reduces the amount of power to the rear wheel ensuring maximum traction. This can be a distinct advantage in wet or muddy conditions.
- • Traction control → optimal traction in all conditions
ENGINE
The SOHC engine is the perfect example of the advanced engineering techniques used by Husqvarna Motorcycles. It delivers amazing peak power with an overall weight of just 27.3 kg. Mass-centralisation is key in the engine design, enabling chassis engineers to position the engine closer to the centre of gravity for greatly improved handling and manoeuvrability. The FC 450 ROCKSTAR EDITION model year 2019 features a new CP forged box-in-box piston and a new PANKL conrod. Providing reduced friction, the new piston and conrod ensure the SOHC engine continues to offer the highest level of performance and reliability available in the market today.
- • Mass centralisation → improved handling and reliability
- • New CP box-in-box piston and PANKL conrod → reduced friction and increased durability
BODYWORK
Advanced bodywork provides unparalleled comfort and control, enabling riders to perform at the highest level, while the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing team graphics provide the new FC 450 ROCKSTAR EDITION with race-winning aesthetics straight out of the showroom.
- • Ergonomics → confidence-inspiring riding position in all riding situations
- • Comfort → riding at the highest level for extended periods of time