Husqvarna FS 450 [2018-2020] Review: A Supermoto That Rewrites the Rules

When you straddle the Husqvarna FS 450, one thing becomes immediately clear: this isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a finely tuned instrument for carving asphalt. Born from Husqvarna’s World Supermoto Championship pedigree, the FS 450 represents the zenith of track-focused engineering for riders who demand precision, agility, and unrelenting power. From 2018 to 2020, this model generation refined its already potent formula, blending race-ready components with innovations that make it equally thrilling for weekend warriors. Let’s dissect what makes this machine a standout in the supermoto arena.

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Design & Ergonomics: Swedish Minimalism Meets Purpose-Built Aggression

The FS 450’s design ethos is pure Husqvarna: clean, functional, and dripping with motorsport intent. The blue-and-white livery pays homage to the brand’s Swedish heritage, while the aggressive stance hints at its track dominance.

Frame & Weight Distribution

At its core lies a chromoly steel tubular frame that’s both featherlight (dry weight: 110 kg / 242.5 lbs) and rigid. Combined with a carbon fiber-reinforced subframe (30% carbon, 1.4 kg total), the chassis centralizes mass around the rider, creating a flickable machine that responds to the slightest input. The seat height—927 mm (36.4 in)—might intimidate shorter riders, but once moving, the narrow profile lets you grip the tank effortlessly, even when hanging off mid-corner.

Bodywork & Controls

Husqvarna’s focus on ergonomics shines here. The ProTaper handlebar offers three-way adjustability, and the ODI lock-on grips ensure your hands stay planted during aggressive maneuvers. The low-profile seat uses a high-grip cover, letting you shift weight seamlessly without fighting for traction. Every control—from the Magura hydraulic clutch to the Brembo lever—feels premium, with a tactile responsiveness that borders on telepathic.

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Engine Performance: 63 Horses of Pure Adrenaline

The heart of the FS 450 is its 449 cc liquid-cooled SOHC engine, pumping out 63 HP—the most powerful 450cc supermoto mill Husqvarna has ever built.

Power Delivery & Throttle Response

This isn’t a lazy torque monster; it’s a high-strung race engine that thrives on revs. The Keihin EMS and 44 mm throttle body deliver razor-sharp response, with no lag between wrist input and rear-wheel action. The Suter anti-hopping slipper clutch ensures hard braking into corners won’t upset the chassis, while the traction control system (a rarity in supermotos) tames wheelspin without dulling the excitement.

Gearing & Transmission

The 5-speed gearbox (2019-2020 models) is a close-ratio unit optimized for track assaults. Lower gears are snappy for explosive corner exits, while fifth gear lets you stretch legs on longer straights. The gear sensor tailors power delivery per gear, softening low-gear hits for slippery conditions.

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Suspension & Handling: WP’s Masterclass in Precision

Husqvarna didn’t cut corners here. The WP AER 48 fork (285 mm travel / 11.2 in) is a game-changer. Air-sprung and adjustable via a single valve, it’s 1.66 kg lighter than traditional forks, contributing to the bike’s ethereal feel. Rebound and compression damping are tool-free, letting you tweak settings between sessions. Out back, the WP XACT shock (266 mm travel / 10.4 in) with linkage eats up bumps while keeping the rear planted under acceleration.

Wheel & Tire Setup

The 16.5” front and 17” rear Alpina spoked wheels wrapped in Bridgestone slicks (120/70-17 front, 150/60-17 rear) offer a contact patch that feels glued to the tarmac. The smaller front wheel sharpens turn-in, letting you flick the FS 450 into corners like a trials bike.

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Electronics: Launch Control, TC, and Adjustability Galore

For a supermoto, the FS 450’s electronics suite is Formula 1-level sophisticated. The handlebar map switch lets you toggle between two engine maps:
- Map 1: Aggressive throttle response for dry conditions.
- Map 2: Smoother power delivery for wet tracks or loose surfaces.

Launch control holds RPMs at the optimal 9,000 for hole-shot starts, while traction control intervenes subtly, allowing just enough slip for controlled slides. It’s unobtrusive—ideal for riders who want a safety net without feeling nannied.

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Competition: How the FS 450 Stacks Up

KTM 450 SMR

KTM’s sibling shares the same engine and chassis DNA but leans slightly more toward hooliganism. The KTM lacks the FS 450’s traction control and uses conventional suspension, making it a raw, less polished alternative.

Yamaha YZ450F Supermoto

The YZ450F conversion is heavier (118 kg / 260 lbs) and lacks EFI, requiring carb tuning. It’s a budget option but can’t match the Husky’s plug-and-play race readiness.

Aprilia SXV 550

Aprilia’s V-twin brute offers more torque but weighs 128 kg (282 lbs). Its maintenance-heavy engine and dated design make the FS 450 feel like a spaceship in comparison.

Verdict: The FS 450 dominates with its blend of lightweight agility, advanced electronics, and race-proven components. It’s the only supermoto in its class offering TC and launch control straight from the factory.

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Maintenance: Keeping Your FS 450 Razor-Sharp

Ownership demands diligence, but the FS 450 rewards those who stay on top of upkeep:

Key Service Points

• Oil Changes: The dry-sump system uses two oil pumps. Replace the 1.2L of Motorex 10W-50 every 15 hours for track use.
• Air Filter: The Twin Air filter is tool-free—clean it every 10 hours using MOTOPARTS.store’s biodegradable cleaner.
• Valve Checks: Every 30 hours. Shim-under-bucket design requires precision; use a feeler gauge kit from our store.
• Chain & Sprockets: The 5/8 x 1/4” chain needs frequent adjustment. Upgrade to a DID ERV3 chain for longer life.

Common Upgrades

• Brake Pads: Swap stock Brembos for sintered pads for better bite.
• Footpegs: Wider aftermarket pegs improve control during hard cornering.
• Exhaust: A slip-on like the Akrapovič Ti system sheds weight and uncorks extra midrange.

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Conclusion: The Supermoto That Thinks Like a Racer

The Husqvarna FS 450 isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a statement. From its championship-bred chassis to the fiendishly clever electronics, every detail screams intent. Whether you’re sliding through a hairpin or chasing lap times, it balances raw aggression with finesse in a way only Husqvarna can. Yes, it demands respect (and frequent maintenance), but for those willing to put in the work, the FS 450 delivers a supermoto experience that’s nothing short of transcendent.

Ready to elevate your ride? Explore our curated selection of FS 450 upgrades and maintenance kits at MOTOPARTS.store—where performance meets passion.

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Specifications sheet

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