2024 450 MX Shootout In Depth | Gas Gas vs. Honda vs. Husqvarna vs. Kawasaki vs. KTM vs. Yamaha

Sixth Place: 2024 Husqvarna FC 450

Test Rider Scores: 5-6-4-5-5-5-6

The Husqvarna FC 450 returns unchanged, save for some suspension settings aimed at more rider comfort. Though the bike is indeed comfortable and easy to ride, it does lose some of its comfort at higher speeds and in rough conditions. Test riders largely didn’t take a liking to the Husky’s lower suspension settings, and although the bike’s powerband offers tunability with the map switch, the Husky’s airbox produces a more muted powerband that left some wanting more. All test riders did comment, however, that with a few modifications, the Husky can be brought up to par with the KTM.

Alex Ray on the Husqvarna FC 450.

“The Husqvarna is a great option for many people, I am just not their target consumer. As a taller rider, lower suspension settings are the opposite of what I am looking for, The fork and shock are a little harsher than the other two Austrian bikes, and the rider compartment is cramped for me.” – Pat Foster

“The Husky is a great bike and has that same basic feel as the KTM and Gas Gas, but the lower rear end doesn’t give me a lot of confidence when I am on the track. The bike is also a little more mellow and easy to ride. Even though that might be a good thing for me, I am looking for that exciting hit.” – Connor Ericsson

“The Husqvarna engine feels well-rounded as it pulls strong as it pulls well from the bottom to top. It isn’t an exciting powerband, but it is easy to control. The shorter suspension travel is not most suitable for me. It has a harsh, abrupt feel. I would convert the fork and shock back to full travel if this were my bike.” – Rene Garcia

“I really enjoy the Husqvarna power as I like to ride the bike in third gear through the turns. This bike is really easy to carry that gear through the corners, It is easy to short shift and it pulls smoothly, Overall, I like the suspension. The bottoming feel of the fork has really improved and that lets you dial in the position of the fork with the clickers. The shock setting is also really comfortable and I like how it drives out of corners.” – Jase Macalpine

“In map 1 the engine has a fast-revving feel that is good off the bottom, smooth in the mid, and has plenty of overrev. The bike has a bit of vibration. The handling is a mixed bag for me. Since it is shorter it corners well with a stable, planted feel, but in rough sections or in rollers, it is noticeably less forgiving,” – Kyle Puerner

“The Husqvarna has a heavy feel and that could be due to the mellow, easy-to-ride powerband. It definitely needs more low-end punch for me, but it is a fun bike to ride. I raised the shock sag to 95mm it seemed to give the bike better holdup and balance.” – Alex Ray

“I like the Husky engine even though it is on the mellow side. It is very rideable and makes great power from mid to top. The bike is soft and low but has a plush feel. Unfortunately, you blow through the stroke very easily. Even though I am not the tallest rider, I do feel a little cramped on the Husky.” – Kyle Vara

 Test Rider Hits

Engine is easy to control and doesn’t tire you out

Comfortable ergonomics

Map switch offers two distinctively different powerbands

Great brakes and handlebars

Corners well

Test Rider Misses

Excessive vibration

Low suspension settings lack hold-up and control

Overall stiff feel

The white/grey/yellow scheme is too bland

Harsh feel upfront