Husqvarna introduces the 2017 FX 450, FX 350 and TX 300 for closed-course off-road competition.
Husqvarna has expanded its line of off-road motorcycles by introducing three new cross-country specific models for 2017.
All three, the FX 450, FX 350 and TX 300 are based on Husqvarna’s respective 2017 FC and TC motocross models and are designated for closed-course off-road competition, but they do feature model-specific off-road equipment, including larger-capacity fuel tanks, 18-inch rear wheels and Dunlop off-road pattern tires. The FX 350 and TX 300 also feature six-speed transmissions instead of the five-speeds used in the motocross versions.
All three cross-country models benefit from the big changes to their motocross counterparts, including the WP AER 48 fork riding in their rubber-damped, CNC-machined aluminum triple clamps. The 48mm fork utilizes split design with an insulated air spring and a pressurized oil chamber, and Husqvarna claims that it is 3.7 pounds lighter than the 4CS fork it replaces. Preload adjustment is accomplished via a single air pressure valve in the left leg while the fork’s damping adjustment is handled via clickers on the on the right leg. Husqvarna supplies the proper air pump with each motorcycle at no extra charge. Out back a fully adjustable WP DCC piggyback shock connected to a rising-rate linkage. Front and rear travel is 11.8 inches.
The FX 450 and, FX 350 also receive Husqvarna’s latest engine management system (EMS), which is smaller, lighter, boasts a faster processor and also incorporates Husqvarna’s latest launch control and new-for-2017 traction control feature. The four-strokes receive a new handlebar-mounted map switch that allows for easy switching between two different engine maps and also activates the launch control, which helps to reduce wheel spin and improve traction off the starting line.
Husqvarna says that the new traction control feature works by analyzing throttle input from the rider and the rate at which rpm increases in the engine. If the rpm increases too quickly, the EMS will register a loss of grip and reduce the amount of power to the rear wheel ensuring maximum traction.
2017 Husqvarna FX 450
Husqvarna claims that the 2017 FX 450 is designed to offers class-leading performance and comfortable ergonomics for amateur and professional off-road riders alike. The FX’s liquid-cooled, SOHC four-stroke engine is 63 horsepower at the output shaft. That power is fed through Husqvarna’s hydraulically activated DDS (Damped Diaphragm Steel) clutch into a new five-speed gearbox that features a low-friction coating on the shifting fork for smooth and precise shifting.
Off-road specific equipment on the FX 450 includes a 2.2-gallon fuel tank for greater range required in off-road racing, an 18-inch rear wheel, Dunlop AT 81 off-road tires front and rear, and a side stand.
2017 Husqvarna FX 350
Based on Husqvarna’s FC 350 motocrosser, the 2017 FX 350 is claimed to produce 58 horsepower at the output shaft, giving it a true middle ground position between 450cc power and 250cc handling character. Its liquid-cooled, DOHC, four-stroke engine also receives the new EMS with launch control, switchable engine maps and Husqvarna’s new traction control system. Unlike the FX 450, the FX 350 transmits its power through a CSS (Coil Spring Steel) clutch into a six-speed semi-close ratio transmission that also the low-friction coating on the shifting fork.
For off-road use, the FX 350 also features a 2.2-gallon fuel tank an 18-inch rear wheel, Dunlop AT 81 off-road tires and a side stand.
2017 Husqvarna TX 300
The Husqvarna TX 300 boasts an all-new engine for 2017, based on the work that Husqvarna did with its 2017 Husqvarna TC 250. Its liquid-cooled two-stroke engine features a new counter balancer shaft to help reduce vibration, a new twin-valve controlled power valve and re-worked 6-speed semi-close ratio transmission.
The TX 300’s 72mm bore cylinder and cylinder head are new incorporating a new water jacket design that is designed to provide more efficient cooling than the previous model. The cylinder head also features new mounts to help further reduce engine vibration for a smoother ride. The TX 300 also receives a new piston with a larger diameter crown to make the piston more stable and increase engine reliability. The 72mm stroke crankshaft has been rebalanced to work with the new laterally mounted counter balancer to help minimize engine vibration. Like the TC 250, the TX 300’s redesigned engine cases place the clutch shaft is 4mm higher while the crankshaft position is 19.5 mm higher to centralize oscillating mass.
The 2017 TX 300 now features a 38mm flat slide Mikuni TMX carburetor, replacing the previous Keihin model. Husqvarna says that it made the switch because the TMX helps the engine to deliver smoother and more controllable power and because the TMX is easier to tune for atmospheric conditions. On the exhaust side, the TX 300’s new expansion chamber is manufactured by WP performance systems using a three-dimensional stamping process, and it is robotically welded to ensure durability.
A 2.6-gallon fuel tank gives the TX 300 extra range for off-road use. The rear wheel is an 18-inch unit, and the TX also receives Dunlop AT 81 off-road tires front and rear as well as a side stand.
For more information on all of Husqvarna’s 2017 models, visit www.husqvarna-motorcycles.com.
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