Husqvarna is offering three four-stroke motocrossers for 2021—the FC 450, FC 350, and FC 250. The three models share the same chassis, with the FC 450 having a SOHC motor that is distinct from the DOHC powerplant used on the FC 350 and FC 250. Most of the changes for ’21 are chassis related, so let’s go over what’s new.
The WP Xact fork gets a makeover for 2021. The outer tubes and fork damping cartridges are 10mm shorter, which adds rigidity. There is also a new mid-valve damping system on the air-spring Xact fork, with the goal of softer performance on landing from big air due to reducing pressure peaks in the internals.
2021 Husqvarna FC 450
New low-friction linkage seals allow the WP Xact shock to have a smoother feel. As with the fork, the WP shock gets new settings to reflect the other changes to the suspension.
2021 Husqvarna FC 350
The seat cover is grippier this year.
There are new airbox side panels. They are designed to increase airflow into the airbox, allowing the four-stroke motors to have a more aggressive throttle response. The airbox lid is still swappable, so you can tailor the throttle response to taste.
2021 Husqvarna FC 250
The latest electric yellow and dark blue graphics for the 2021 Husqvarna 4-stroke motocross lineup celebrate the company’s Swedish heritage.
2021 Husqvarna FC 450 (FC 350 and FC 250) SpecsENGINE
Type: Single-cylinder four-stroke
Displacement: 450cc (FC 350: 350cc; FC 250: 250cc)
Bore x stroke: 95 x 63.4mm (FC 350: 88 x 57.5mm; FC 250: 78 x 52.3mm)
Compression ratio: 12.75:1 (FC 350: 14.0:1; FC 250: 14.4:1)
Valvetrain: SOHC, 4 valves (FC 350 and FC 250: DOHC, 4 valves)
Starting: Electric w/ Lithium-ion 12.8-volt 2 Ah battery
This week, Senior Editor Nic de Sena rides the all new Ducati Monster. Big changes have been made by Ducati–has the company ruined the considerable heritage of the iconic Monster–or are the changes worth it? In the second part of the show, we chat with Nick Ienatsch, Founder and Head Instructor at the Yamaha Champions Riding School. He says: “We aim to change your riding life by introducing you to Champions Habits: The techniques, approaches, skills, and the mindsets of the best riders in the world. These Champions Habits are the foundation of safety and consistency to whatever speed you ride, in any venue on any bike. Street riders, this is just as much for you as track riders. The best way to make safe riders is to make good riders.“ We hope you enjoy this episode!
