Yamaha off-road racing bikes are designed to turn enthusiasts into the best riders-helping them to win the race with the machine-placing them in the victory zone and on the podium. From exciting youth models like the YZ65 and YZ85, to the legendary YZ125 or YZ250 two-stroke, to the championship-winning YZ250F and the industry’s exclusive Power Tuner app, the leading-in-class YZ450F, all Yamaha off-road motorcycles have one Common ground: the winner chooses them. Learn more on YamahaMotorsports.com

Last Wednesday, KTM launched its long-awaited brand new platform through the 2022 factory version of the 450 SX-F and 250 SX-F. These bikes will be sold in limited quantities in 2022 (just enough to meet the AMA production rules certification standards) and will be entered by Red Bull KTM factory riders Cooper Webb, Marvin Musquin, Aaron Plessinger and Max Vohland (250 participants). By 2023, you will see this new platform spread to most of the entire KTM off-road vehicle series, but now you will get the most critical level of the highest-end racing model, 450 and 250 four-stroke. The hope is for the racing team to occupy a place in the race and give them a new bike one year in advance to participate in the race.

Husqvarna's brother team will also get this new bike, known as the Rockstar version of FC 250 and 450. They will be driven by Dean Wilson, Malcolm Stewart and RJ Hampshire, Stilez Robertson and Jalek Swoll in the FC 250. Once again, the mass production version of this brand new machine will be launched at dealers in 2022, enough to meet the AMA mass production rules. 

Husqvarna said that this bike will be on sale at dealerships in February. No price was announced.

After KTM showed off the factory version in California last week, our Kris Keefer was sent to Florida this weekend to see the new Husqvarnas in person. Kiefer submitted this short report after seeing the new Rockstar machine:

Since last Friday, I have been spending time with the Aldon Baker and Rockstar Energy Husqvarna teams in Clermont, Florida. We have been doing some training and some riding in Aldon, but we have also seen the release of the new 2022 Husqvarna FC 250/450 Rockstar Editions. It was an eye-opening experience to train with the team and witness the distance between all these people. All the drivers in the team seem to get along well and become one.

After checking the bike, there are a few things that impressed me:

Later, I will tell some stories about training, facilities and riders, but at the same time let you feast your eyes on some details of the new FC 250/450 Rockstar Editions. -KK

This is Husqvarna's full press release

Husqvarna motorcycles launched 2022 FC 250 Rockstar and FC 450 Rockstar models. The new engine and chassis allow competitive off-road motorcycle riders to get ahead of their opponents in race after race. First-class dynamic performance can provide instant power, and advanced ergonomic design can provide complete control.

FC 250 Rockstar Edition is equipped with a DOHC engine, which has unparalleled power and torque. FC 450 Rockstar Edition is equipped with SOHC device, which also provides first-class performance. Both engines are brand new, lightweight, and repositioned in their frame to achieve the best mass concentration, ensuring easy operation and control.

FC 250 Rockstar Edition and FC 450 Rockstar Edition have also completely revised the 2022 chassis. Both bikes use a new hydro-formed chrome-molybdenum frame designed to improve anti-squat performance under power. The new die-cast aluminum rocker arm provides the best rigidity and low weight. The durable aluminum polyamide hybrid subframe is designed for specially calculated stiffness.

The suspension is by WP. The new XACT 48 mm front fork with AER technology provides more progressive damping at the end of the stroke, while the latest XACT rear shock design features tool-less adjustment.

The new multi-function map switch can select the power supply mode. It also activates traction and start control functions, as well as an Easy Shift for the five-speed gearbox with a seamless upshift correction ratio in the FC 250 Rockstar version and FC450 Rockstar version.

The new body is decorated with the latest Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing graphics, which is ergonomically designed for easy movement on the motorcycle. This allows the rider to better control his attention to focus on the game.

FC 250 Rockstar Edition and FC 450 Rockstar Edition copied Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing bicycles to participate in the AMA Supercross competition and provide competitive machinery for all off-road motorcycle riders.

The frames for hydroforming, laser cutting and robotic welding are professionally produced. The frame is constructed with specially calculated longitudinal and torsional flexibility parameters to provide excellent rider feedback, energy absorption and straight-line stability. In addition, the frame uses a forged bracket for mounting the newly designed polyamide anti-skid plate that is standard on Rockstar Editions.

The rotating mass in the frame and the forged steering head connection have been repositioned. In addition, the new shock mount is no longer connected to the main pipe, and the back squat resistance of the chassis has been significantly improved. In addition, the wall thickness of the frame has been optimized to improve the reliability and specific stiffness of high-stress areas such as the steering head and shock absorber. The parallel frame installation (the same position on the left and right sides) improves the chassis bending characteristics, while the stability characteristics are still unparalleled.

Another highlight of the new frame topology is that the footstool installation position has been moved inward, thereby reducing the sensitivity of hooking during deep rutting or scrubbing jumps. The overall size of the new foot pedal designed with the help of the most advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD) has been increased. The new one-piece steering head seal is easier to install during replacement or maintenance, and provides higher reliability.

The frame of Rockstar Editions uses high-quality black fine structure powder coating. The standard frame protector uses a new and improved topology to ensure excellent protection, durability and advanced grip under any conditions. The newly designed polyamide composite anti-skid plate is installed with four screws and uses an integral frame bracket to provide excellent protection against dust and strong impact on the frame and engine.

The two-piece subframe is made of 60% polyamide and 40% aluminum, and the total weight is only 3.9 pounds (1.8 kg). With the help of computational dynamics, specific stiffness is designed into the lightweight and strong sub-frame to provide excellent handling and rider comfort.

The lower sub-frame beams and frame brackets are made of cast aluminum profiles to ensure robustness and reliability when needed. The upper subframe is made of injection-molded polyamide, which can achieve specific bending characteristics and achieve a lightweight structure.

The new hollow die-cast aluminum rocker arm is designed to provide the best stiffness and reliability with the lowest possible weight. The topology has been optimized for the best rigidity, and the improved casting process has reduced the weight by approximately 190 grams. In order to optimize and match the new chassis bending characteristics, a new 22mm rear axle was installed.

In addition, the chain guard and chain slider have been completely redesigned to improve durability and reduce the sensitivity of hanging on external objects. This new design will help reduce the accumulation of dirt around the swing arm and chain guard, especially in extreme muddy conditions.

The chain adjustment mark can also be seen from above for easy adjustment.

The 48 mm split air fork has a sealed air spring and a pressurized oil chamber for gradual and consistent damping. Oil and air bypass can reduce pressure peaks, and combined with a mid-valve damping system, the front fork provides excellent feedback and rider comfort. The new hydraulic stop increases the resistance to bottom resistance by providing more progressive damping force in the last 40 mm of stroke. In addition, rebound is also reduced, resulting in lower initial acceleration of the fork after a hard landing. The redesigned front fork protection ring increases protection against dust intrusion.

Settings can be easily adjusted with a single pneumatic preload valve and easy-to-use click adjusters for compression and rebound. In addition, the air pump required to adjust the air pressure of the front fork is also equipped as standard.

The CNC-machined Factory Racing triple clamp is made of high-grade aluminum, with optimized steering rod stiffness, perfect alignment of the front fork tube, and precise geometry of the front fork clamp to ensure high response and smooth front fork motion. A simple offset adjustment of 20 mm or 22 mm can provide maximum processing gain.

The newly designed, topology-optimized handlebar mount provides greater grip and reduces handlebar distortion at the same weight as the previous generation. In addition, they allow rubber damping and fixed installation, providing customizable handlebar bending.

The front license plate integrates a triple clip protector, which covers the lower triple clip and protects it from wear and tear caused by habitat.

Compared with the previous generation, the total length of the newly designed rear shock absorber has been reduced by 15 mm, the weight has been reduced by 100 grams, and the rear wheel travel remains unchanged at 300 mm. The shock absorber is matched with an improved linkage system with a new geometry to provide the same progress as before, but with maximum traction and absorbency. Combined with the new frame geometry, it improves the ground clearance of the connecting rod, so it is not easily damaged when it hits the bottom.

The new main piston optimized by computational fluid dynamics (CFD) in the shock absorber improves initial comfort and provides strong support. The flow holes of different sizes make it easier to open the gasket and reduce the overall stress of the oil flow and the pressure on the gasket. Weight reduction also means less moving mass, which reduces the force on the main piston.

The fully manually adjustable dual compression control concept allows manual changes to high and low speed settings. Combined with the newly designed rebound adjuster that can be adjusted manually or with tools, the rider can now adjust the damping settings without tools or the help of a mechanic on the track.

In addition to the possibility of tool-free settings and adjustments, a new preload adjuster has also been introduced to improve resistance to dust intrusion. The new two-piece spring retainer allows quick installation without splitting the shock absorber.

The WP XACT rear shock absorber has low-friction SKF connecting rod seals that provide advanced damping characteristics for unparalleled traction and energy absorption. The pressure balance inside the shock absorber ensures consistent damping, resulting in excellent rider comfort and feel.

The high-performance Brembo hydraulic clutch system ensures uniform wear, almost maintenance-free operation and perfect adjustment under various conditions. This means that the gap is constantly compensated so that the pressure point and function of the clutch remain the same in cold or hot conditions and over time. Countless hours of competition-focused tests have proved the excellent reliability of the high-quality Brembo hydraulic system made in Italy.

First-class Brembo calipers and controls ensure the highest level of quality. 260mm floating front brake discs and 220mm wave rear brake discs provide excellent braking force with confidence in all conditions. A new polyamide composite front disc protector is installed as standard for added protection.

ProTaper handlebars are second to none in terms of functionality and style. The handlebars are manufactured in accordance with strict standards, are extremely lightweight, and have first-class fatigue resistance. The handlebar curve further improves comfort through the optimal pressure point on the rider's hand.

The ODI locking handle on the left does not require bonding, while the vulcanized handle on the right has an innovative integrated throttle mechanism. The component has a relaxed free gap adjustment function, and the throttle process can be changed by changing the cam. The ODI locking handle of Rockstar Editions comes standard with a softer gray composite material.

The new, CFD-designed pedals provide a larger surface for the soles of the boots, and are not easy to hook into deep ruts, scrubbing or takeoffs during track obstacles. The result is better control of the bicycle under all conditions. This is achieved through a new, narrower installation concept integrated in the frame design, which also reduces weight.

The new map selector switch is designed for simple and intuitive operation and is the standard configuration of Rockstar Edition. It activates traction and start control, chooses between two engine maps (active/smooth) and activates the Easy Shift function. Map 1 is a linear, predictable power standard map, and Map 2 is an aggressive map for increasing throttle response and more explosive output power.

The new Easy Shift function (up only) can be activated or deactivated via the map selection switch. This function only works when upshifting, interrupting ignition for a fraction of a second. This allows upshifts with the throttle fully open without using the clutch lever. The sensor on the shift drum records the force from the shift lever, sends the signal to the ECU, and the ignition timing is interrupted. To prevent accidental shifts and false neutrals, this function is only valid in the second to fifth gears.

When the engine is idling, activate the start control by simultaneously pressing the traction control and Easy Shift switches. The two symbols will begin to flash to indicate that the start control is active. This function limits the power of the rear wheels, thereby increasing traction and preventing loss of control during rapid acceleration. Once the rider shifts up, the start control will be automatically deactivated. In addition, when the startup control mode is enabled, the Easy Shift function will be disabled.

Traction control is activated by a switch marked "TC" and works by analyzing the throttle input from the rider and the rate of increase in engine RPM. If the RPM increases too fast, the engine management system (EMS) will record the loss of grip and reduce the power of the rear wheels to ensure maximum traction. This is an obvious advantage in wet or muddy conditions.

The new combined start/stop switch located on the right side of the handlebar can start and stop the engine easily and intuitively.

Keihin EMS is specifically designed to be smaller, lighter, and process data faster. It integrates perfect start start control, selectable engine mapping through the traction control switch on the handlebar, and Easy Shift function. Combined with the gear position sensor, the power output is tailored for each gear position.

The new rollover sensor (ROS) can cut off the ignition device in the event of an extreme collision, adding another layer of safety to the new generation of Husqvarna off-road motorcycle machines. In addition, the new timing performance is equipped with an integrated FI status LED and a fuel level indicator.

The Rockstar version is equipped with a 44mm Keihin throttle body. The position of the fuel injector ensures the most effective flow into the combustion chamber and the best throttle response. The throttle cable is installed directly without connecting rods, providing a more direct throttle response and feel.

The Rockstar Edition exhaust system is professionally designed to provide leading performance with the lightest weight possible. The manifold has a flow design resonance chamber integrated in the manifold. The header is designed and manufactured in two pieces to be as compact as possible. The location of the connection allows it to be removed without removing the rear shock absorber. Further innovations allow the realization of short and compact silencers without increasing the noise level. The muffler is made of lightweight aluminum with a stylish black coating, demonstrating its excellent quality.

In order to provide the benefits of a simple electric starting system, the Rockstar version of the model is equipped with a lithium-ion 2.0 Ah battery. The weight of lithium-ion batteries is approximately 2.2 pounds (1 kg) lighter than traditional lead/acid batteries, so the overall weight is minimized while providing the convenience of electric starting.

The radiator is refined by WP using high-strength aluminum. CFD optimization is used to more effectively direct air through the radiator and provide optimal cooling under any conditions. The cooling system is integrated into the frame to improve cooling by guiding the coolant through the frame without requiring additional hoses. The large central tube passing through the frame reduces the pressure in the system at this time, allowing for a more consistent coolant flow, and now includes an internal thermostat to increase reliability.

In addition, the radiator is installed close to the center of gravity to improve handling flexibility.

The new 1.9 gallon (7.2 liter) polyethylene fuel tank of the Rockstar Edition model includes a threaded filler cap and an integrated fuel pump. The new integrated fuel pump with integrated filter improves fuel supply and allows further emptying of the fuel tank when the fuel level is low. The external fuel pipeline is specially positioned to reduce exposure and damage.

The CFD optimized wind box is designed with precisely positioned intake ducts to prevent air deformation and ensure maximum airflow and filter protection. No tools are required, and the air filter can be easily accessed by removing the left side panel. The Twin Air filter element and filter cage design ensure easy maintenance, with a simple fail-safe installation system, and the filter can be installed safely and accurately.

DID’s black high-strength anodized DirtStar rims are connected to high-quality black anodized CNC machined hubs, using lightweight spokes and black anodized aluminum connectors to minimize weight and optimize handling under the most extreme off-road motorcycle conditions Sex and stability.

Dunlop’s GEOMAX MX33 off-road tires use a proven "block-in-block" design, which can achieve more gradual turns and excellent grip, as standard equipment.

The Rockstar Edition model uses a body, clearly showing Husqvarna Motorcycles' progressive approach to cross-country motorcycles and striking black and white graphics, which are stylishly decorated with a Swedish-style design.

The improved rider triangle can better contact the knees, especially when riding while standing. It can inspire the confidence of riders of various abilities and enable them to maintain the highest level of performance for a long time. The slim contact surface on the body makes it easier for the rider to move the bike on the track and improves the overall handling and flexibility of the bike.

The flat seat profile combined with the racing-designed GUTS high-grip seat cover provides excellent control in all conditions. The groove under the seat is located above the air box and can be used to grip and lift the bicycle.

The graphics of the new Rockstar Editions are very similar to the appearance of the Husqvarna Factory race car for the 2022 season. The sponsor logo and graphic design elements are implemented using durable in-mold technology. Even after hours of intense riding, a high-quality factory race appearance can be guaranteed.

The newly designed FC 250 Rockstar Edition engine is tilted back by 2°, so it is equipped with a repositioned sprocket, which is 3 mm lower than the previous generation. The overall height of the engine has been reduced by 8 mm to improve mass concentration and reduce weight (approximately 60 grams).

The maintenance mark (▲) added on the engine clearly shows where the washer is used, making maintenance and repair easier than ever.

The layout of all main components and axles has been carefully designed and placed to best suit the performance and handling characteristics of the overall package. Another benefit of this new design is to improve the anti-recoil performance of the entire chassis.

The 250cc engine is not only light, weighing 57.5 pounds (26.11 kg), but the redesigned mid-frequency is also very powerful.

The completely redesigned DOHC cylinder head uses finger followers with DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) coating to minimize friction and achieve optimal performance. These actuated large titanium valves (32.5mm air intake, 27.5mm exhaust) open and close multiple times per second at a speed limit of 14,000 rpm, introducing the fuel/air mixture into the well-designed combustion chamber to cover the entire speed range Provide efficient and optimal power.

The new 27.5mm exhaust valve is the result of the new bore/stroke ratio and provides optimized airflow. The valve timing has been adjusted according to the new valve size and is perfectly coordinated with the redesigned camshaft.

In order to improve the maintainability and maintenance work in the engine, the redesigned adjustment bushing bridge is tightened and increased rigidity. In addition, the cylinder head gasket adopts a new "stop design", which can reduce the seal gap oscillation caused by gas pressure.

The new 81mm bore cylinder is equipped with forged bridge box pistons manufactured by CP and weighs only 150 grams. Both the cylinder and piston are made of high-strength aluminum, with excellent performance and reliability. The stroke has been adjusted to 48.5 mm and the compression ratio has been increased to 14.5:1 to increase torque and peak performance.

Due to the CFD optimized combustion chamber, the cross section of the intake port can be smaller, thereby improving the engine's responsiveness.

The crankshaft is designed to provide the best performance while being perfectly positioned in the engine box to focus the swing quality for optimal handling. Ordinary big end bearings have two press-fitted bearing shells to ensure maximum reliability and durability, as well as a long maintenance interval of 100 hours.

The design of the FC 250 Rockstar Edition engine takes mass concentration and weight reduction as the main criteria. Therefore, the crankcase has been redesigned to place the internal components of the engine in the perfect position to achieve the ideal center of gravity while reducing weight as much as possible. The engine mounting points are the same as those on the FC 450 engine.

The shell is manufactured by a high-pressure die-casting production process with a thin wall thickness while maintaining excellent reliability.

The new 5-speed gearbox produced by Pankl Racing Systems is designed to be extremely light and durable, and has a specific ratio of 250 cc (24:72). The redesign of the shift shaft reduces the operating force required for shifting. The new Easy Shift sensor is located on the shift drum, enabling clutch-less upshifts. This function can be activated/deactivated via the new QS mark button on the map selector switch located on the left side of the handlebar.

The shift fork has a low-friction coating for smoother shifting, while the new shift lever is designed to prevent dust accumulation and ensure perfect gear selection under all conditions. Advanced gear sensors allow specific engine mapping to provide optimal performance in each gear.

FC 250 is equipped with DS (diaphragm steel) clutch. The unique features of this system include a single diaphragm steel pressure plate instead of a traditional coil spring.

The clutch basket has been modified to have the same design as the FC 450 to accommodate the new transmission ratio. It is a one-piece CNC machined steel part that allows the use of thin steel bushings and contributes to the compact design of the engine.

The SOHC engine of the FC 450 Rockstar Edition is a perfect example of the advanced engineering technology used by Husqvarna Motorcycles. It can provide huge peak power with a total weight of only 59 pounds (26.8 kg), which is equivalent to an approximate weight reduction. Compared with the previous generation, it weighs 300 grams.

Mass concentration is the key to engine design, enabling chassis engineers to place the engine closer to the center of gravity, thereby greatly improving handling and maneuverability. This is achieved by tilting the engine back by 2°, which means positioning the sprocket 3 mm lower. Coupled with the benefits of mass concentration and weight reduction, the squat resistance of the chassis has been significantly improved.

The maintainability of the new FC 450 Rockstar Edition engine has received attention. The liquid discharge boss on the engine (▲) and the added service mark clearly show where the gasket is used, making maintenance and repair easier than before.

The redesigned SOHC cylinder head is very compact and lightweight, with a short profile, and the camshaft as close to the center of gravity as possible. The parallel frame installation significantly improves handling and flexibility.

The light valve is driven by a rocker arm and has a specially designed timing function to provide precise torque and throttle response levels. The diameter of the intake valve is 40 mm, and the diameter of the exhaust valve is 33 mm. The new valve cover reduces the number of mounting screws (only two are required), and a single fuel injection nozzle ensures efficient cooling while maintaining light weight.

New fine stamped cam chains, low-friction chain guides and low-friction DLC rocker arm coatings provide the best efficiency, reliability and durability. Pay attention to the maintenance tasks of the cam chain locking position to improve the maintainability of the valve mechanism.

The lightweight aluminum cylinder is a masterpiece of engineering with a hole diameter of 95 mm. The CP bridge box piston has an anodized ring groove, which increases durability and longer maintenance intervals, while weighing only 327 grams. The compression ratio has been increased to 13.1:1 to improve peak performance.

The inertia generated by the crankshaft has been carefully calculated to provide the best traction and driving performance through the powerful 450cc engine. The crankshaft is specially positioned to utilize the rotating mass at the ideal center of gravity, which brings light and flexible control. The ordinary big-end bearing composed of two press-fitted bearing shells ensures maximum reliability and durability, and guarantees a long maintenance interval of 100 hours.

The crankcase is designed to arrange the shaft and engine internal components in an ideal position to provide the best maneuverability. In addition, the position of the clutch shaft keeps the clutch above the oil level, reducing drag and improving efficiency. New steel oil pump gears and repositioned fuel injectors increase the overall oil pressure, thereby improving resistance to overheating and improving durability.

The high-pressure die-casting production process minimizes the overall weight, thereby achieving thin wall thickness while maintaining reliability.

The redesigned lightweight 5-speed gearbox is produced by Pankl Racing Systems to ensure the highest level of durability and reliability. The weight-optimized shift shaft reduces the operating force required to change gears, and the gearbox also has a modified gear ratio (29:72). The new Easy Shift sensor is located on the shift drum, enabling clutch-less upshifts. This function can be activated/deactivated via the new QS mark button on the map selector switch located on the left side of the handlebar.

The design of the new gear lever prevents dust accumulation and keeps the gear lever in its original position even in the harshest conditions. The advanced gear sensor selects a specific engine map tailored to each gear.

FC 450 Rockstar Edition is equipped with an improved DDS (Dampened Diaphragm Steel) clutch. The unique features of this system include a single diaphragm steel pressure plate instead of a traditional coil spring. It integrates a damping system to provide better traction and durability. The clutch basket is a one-piece CNC machined steel part that allows the use of thin steel bushings and contributes to the compact design of the engine.

The main improvements include better cooling of the clutch through pressure lubrication, reducing clutch attenuation caused by high-stress use, and the clutch basket has been redesigned and adapted to the new 5-speed gearbox.

Redesigned clutch basket → suitable for new 5-speed transmission ratio.

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