Husqvarna reveals ’16 motocross bikes

Beginning a new era, every detail of this new, from the ground up motocross range has been specifically designed to improve performance. Featuring massive weight savings, totally new bodywork, new engine design and new carbon fibre subframes, the 2016 motocross bikes embrace Husqvarna’s rich racing heritage to ensure premium motorcycles with state-of-the-art technology.

Presenting the all-new FC 450, FC 350 and FC 250 four-stroke models, plus the all-new TC 125 machine, Husqvarna Motorcycles offer a range of bikes that effortlessly support riders of all ages and abilities, in all situations. Husqvarna’s six-strong MY16 model range ensures racers and riders alike have the perfect machinery to achieve their goals.

Rethinking torsional rigidity and longitudinal stiffness, the hydro-formed, laser-cut and robot welded chromium molybdenum steel frame is lighter and more compact to offer better handling and feeling than its predecessor. Coupled with its new three-piece carbon fibre subframe – one kilogram lighter than the previous subframe – and a new cast aluminium swingarm, it ensures a motorcycle with unrivalled ride-ability and ease of use.

Perfectly matching the new chassis characteristics, new CNC machined triple clamps, WP’s 4CS forks, a new shorter and 500g lighter WP rear shock are mated to a new rear link geometry, which improves both damping and balance. It ensures optimum traction and control across all riding situations and terrains.

In the engine department, the FC 450, FC 350 and FC 250 enjoy further developments and improvements and together with the TC 125 benefit from a significant reduction in engine weight. Smaller and lighter four-stroke motors are completely reconfigured for optimal mass-centralisation.

Across all four-stroke models a new Keihin engine management system processes data faster, while a 44mm throttle body – compact and 100g lighter – provides immediate throttle response, thanks to the elimination of a throttle linkage.

New for MY16 is launch control, integrated into the standard handlebar map switch. With the ability to alter engine characteristics, the launch control feature seeks out maximum traction to deliver consistently perfect starts as standard. Overall weight savings have been significant. The FC 450 is now 5.2kg lighter than the previous model, while the FC 350 is 4.7kg less than the 2015 machine. The FC 250 has been lightened by four kilograms.

Importantly, the exhaust system has been completely redesigned to improve mass centralisation and reduce sound levels in keeping with FIM limits. Notably shorter and sleeker, the FC 450 sees its resonance chambers integrated into the header pipe.

While considerable effort has gone into the release of the all-new four-stroke models, the two-stroke range also sees improvements – in particular the TC 125. The eight-litre machine receives a significantly smaller and lighter engine. Redesigned and repackaged with a new power valve and exhaust, it has an increased power output from 38hp to 40hp.

For the youngest racers in the Husqvarna family, the agile and powerful TC 85 is the ideal entry machine into motocross, adorned with stylish colours and graphics.