HUSQVARNA LAUNCHES 2017 OFF-ROAD LINE

Husqvarna has announced its off-road line for 2017, and it includes three new models that mark a change in philosophy for the company. The biggest news is a  300cc two-stroke with a brand-new motor and a chassis similar to those in the four-stroke motocross line. In the bigger picture, it’s part of a new series of “X” bikes, designed for off-road competition.

With over 100 years of continuous production developing some of the world’s first serial production off-road machines, Husqvarna motorcycles are truly the pioneers of the sport as we know it today. After the successful launch of four brand new models for MY16, Husqvarna has is now expanding its line up with the new FX and TX Cross Country models. These models build on the FC and TC motocross models with off-road specific equipment and settings.
Husqvarna continues to pioneer cutting edge technologies by developing motorcycles which are more agile, more powerful and more ergonomically advanced than previous generations. The attention to detail and innovative techniques used by Husqvarna engineers have resulted in an all-new premium product offering to the off-road market that will set the standard for closed-course cross counrty racing.
For model year 2017, Husqvarna looks to continue its century of successes and solidify a position as one of the leading players in the segment by offering motorcycles that are at the pinnacle of performance, design and ergonomics.

FEATURES AND BENEFITS
New WP AER 48 front fork
The WP AER 48 front fork is completely new for MY17. The 48 mm split air fork features an insulated air spring and pressurized oil chamber for progressive and consistent damping. The new component is 3.7 pounds lighter than its predecessor and is easily adjustable via a single air pressure valve for pre-load (on the left leg) as well as easy access clickers adjusting damping with 30 clicks (on the right leg). Additionally, the air pump needed to adjust air pressure in the fork will be provided as standard.
Precision engineering by WP Performance Systems, quality materials and advanced production processes guarantee the highest performance levels.
 Insulated air spring and pressurized oil chamber → progressive and consistent damping
 Easy access clicker dials → simple and fast clicker settings
 New outer fork tubes → increased flex and functionality
 Reduction in weight → 3.7 pounds
 Off-road specific damping
CNC machined triple clamps
The 22 mm offset black-anodized CNC machined triple clamps feature an integrated rubber damping system that reduces vibration and increases rider comfort. The triple clamps have been expertly crafted using superior techniques and materials to provide premium quality and reliability while a new upper triple clamp has been redesigned to compliment the new WP AER 48 fork. A 3-way handlebar adjustment is standard and allows for customizable ergonomics.
 Rubber damping on top clamp → reduced vibrations, increased comfort
 CNC aluminum → finest quality and reliability
 Adjustable handlebar position → adjustable ergonomics
WP rear shock
The WP DCC rear shock is designed to provide advanced damping characteristics while conforming to a compact and lightweight design. With a pressure balance inside the shock, damping is improved resulting in greater rider comfort and handling while the outer contour of the reservoir increases cooling. The component is also fully adjustable and matched to a linkage system with a specific geometry to deliver the best possible traction and progression with a rear wheel travel of 300 mm.
 Lightweight and compact → conforming to the lightweight and compact design of the motorcycle
 Pressure balance → consistent damping
 Off-road specific damping
 Linkage system → specific geometry for best results, 300 mm wheel travel
Frame
The hydro-formed, laser-cut and robot-welded frame expertly crafted by WP Performance Systems has been specifically designed with calculated parameters of longitudinal and torsional flex. New aluminum engine mountings on all 4T models benefit suspension functionality and feeling while retaining a light, compact and strong package. The frame is finished off with a premium white powder coating and standard frame protectors guaranteeing supreme protection and durability.
 Longitudinal and torsional stiffness → superior handling and feeling
 New engine mountings 4T → improved suspension function
 Produced by WP Performance Systems → guarantee of high quality standards
 Durable finish with standard frame protectors
Composite carbon fiber subframe
The composite subframe is a design unique to Husqvarna showcasing pioneering technologies and innovation. This 3 piece component is made up of 30% carbon fiber making it remarkably light (3.1 lbs.) and also particularly strong. Specific care has been taken to create a certain rigidity for optimal handling and rider ergonomics.
 3-piece subframe → composite materials
 Carbon fiber construction → 3.1 lbs. overall weight
 Specific rigidity → benefits handling and ergonomics
Swingarm
The hollow, cast aluminum swingarm has been designed to offer optimal stiffness and reliability at the least possible weight. The machining on the side by Husqvarna motorcycle engineers is another mark of quality showcasing in depth attention to detail and superior craftsmanship.
 Optimal stiffness and reliability in a lightweight construction
Footpeg mount
The Husqvarna frame features an innovative, self -cleaning footpeg mount which prevents the build-up of dirt collected through deep ruts or muddy terrain. As a result, the footpeg will spring back into its original position even in the toughest conditions. For riders who prefer a higher footpeg set-up, the MY17 enduro footpegs can be fitted raising the position by 6mm.
 Footpeg mount → prevents mud and dirt build-up allowing footpeg to spring back into position
 Large footpegs → perfect grip and control.
Magura hydraulic clutch
The reliable, high quality, German-made clutch system guarantees even wear, near maintenance-free operation and perfect modulation in every condition. Meaning that play is constantly compensated so that the pressure point and function of the clutch remain identical in cold or hot conditions, as well as over time.
 Magura hydraulic clutch → perfect modulation in every condition
 High quality German craftsmanship → very reliable, consistent clutch action
Brakes
Class-leading Brembo calipers and controls with high quality GSK discs deliver superior stopping power instilling confidence in any condition. 260mm disc front and 220mm rear. New for MY17 is a rear brake lever which is 10mm longer as well as new rear brake pads that are less aggressive and provide better modulation.
 Brembo brake calipers and high performance GSK discs → superior stopping power with greater control and confidence
 New rear brake lever and pads → improved modulation
Pro Taper handlebar
The Pro Taper handlebar is second to none for function and style. Manufactured to exacting standards, the Pro Taper handlebar features class-leading fatigue resistance while adding minimal weight. For 2017, the lower handlebar clamp has been separated while the top clamp is a bridge-type clamp improving torsional stiffness. The Pro Taper logos are chemically applied and are scratch and peel resistant. The large Husqvarna bar pad has optimal impact resistance, while the standard handguards offer maximum roost protection.
 Pro Taper handlebar → class-leading function and style
 Oversized bar pad and standard handguards → optimal protection
 New bar clamps → improved torsional stiffness
Grips and throttle assembly
The ODI lock-on grip on the left side does not require gluing, while on the right, the vulcanized grip features an innovative integrated throttle mechanism. The assembly has easy free-play adjustment and, by changing a cam, throttle progression can be altered.
 New throttle assembly and ODI grips → easily to alter throttle progression; easy grip mounting without glue
Map switch, launch control
The MY17 cross country range features a new handlebar map switch on all four strokes. Optimized for easy operation, apart from changing between 2 different engine maps, the map switch also activates launch control. With the engine at idle, launch control is engaged by switching once between the selected map and the alternative map, and then back again. When the fuel injection LED flashes, launch control is engaged. This function limits the amount of power to the rear wheel, improving traction and preventing loss of control under hard acceleration.
 Standard handlebar map switch → alter engine characteristics according to conditions and rider preference
 Launch control → maximum traction for perfect starts
Traction control
The new map switch also operates a traction control feature completely new for 2017. This can be selected to an on or off position from the switch and functions 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. This can be a distinct advantage in wet or muddy conditions.
 New traction control feature → optimal traction in all conditions
Engine management system (EMS)
The Keihin EMS is specifically designed to be smaller, lighter and faster at processing data. It integrates launch control for perfect starts, selectable engine maps via the switch on the handlebar as well as traction control. Combined with the new gear sensor, power delivery is tailored for each gear.
 Keihin EMS → smaller, lighter and faster at processing engine data for more efficient engine management
 Gear sensor → specific engine maps for each gear
44 mm throttle body
The MY17 features the same 44 mm Keihin throttle body as MY 16. The injector has been positioned in order to ensure the most efficient flow into the combustion chamber while in an effort to ensure optimal throttle response the throttle cable is mounted directly without a throttle linkage providing more immediate throttle response and feeling.
 Throttle body → 44 mm, injector positioned for optimal flow, more immediate throttle response thanks to direct cable mounting
Exhaust system
The exhaust system has been expertly designed to deliver the best possible performance while adhering to the FIM noise limits. The header pipes feature resonance chambers that improve performance, and on the 450 SOHC engine, the resonance chamber is integrated into the header pipe and resembles a 2-stroke expansion chamber. The silencers are crafted from lightweight and strong aluminum in an effort to reduce weight and benefit mass centralization resulting in sharper, more effective handling. The TX 300 exhaust system has also been specifically designed to match specific engine characteristics while keeping weight to a minimum.
 Exhausts → mass-centralization, light-weight, optimal performance
Electric start and new Li-Ion battery
All 4-strokes come standard with electric starters. Along with the benefit of easy starting the system is combined with a compact Li-Ion battery which is 2.2 pounds lighter than a conventional battery. The wiring harness has been purposefully designed so that the rear subframe can be removed without having to remove any wiring.
 Electric starter → easy starting when time is critical
 Li-Ion battery → lightweight, 2.2 pounds lighter than a conventional battery
 Battery and wiring harness position → easy removal of subframe
Integrated cooling system and radiators
The radiators have been expertly crafted by WP Performance Systems using high strength aluminum. CFD (computational fluid dynamics) has been utilized to channel air through the radiators more efficiently and provide optimal cooling in any condition. The cooling system is integrated into the frame allowing for better cooling by channeling coolant through the frame while eliminating the need for additional hoses. Additionally, the radiator protectors do not only protect against flying debris but also act as a brace channeling any energy from an impact around the radiator and into the frame.
 Integrated cooling → maximum efficiency in minimum space
 New WP radiators → stronger and more efficient for optimal cooling
 Radiator protectors → protection from debris and falls
Fuel tank
The 2.2-gallon polythene fuel tank incorporates a threaded filler cap and an integrated fuel pump on the 4-strokes.
 2.2 gallon polythene 4-stroke fuel tank → large capacity for extended running times
 2.6 gallon polythene 2-stroke fuel tank → large capacity for extended running times
Airbox and tool-less air filter access
The airbox has been designed with inlet ducts positioned precisely to prevent air deformation ensuring maximum airflow and maximum filter protection. The air filter is easily accessed, without tools, by removing the left side panel. Easy maintenance is guaranteed by the Twin Air filter and filter cage design that features a simple fail proof mounting system for safe and accurate filter installation.
 Airbox → maximum air flow and filter protection
 Filter mounting system → safe and accurate protection against dirt
 Tool-less filter access → easy and fast maintenance
Wheels
Black high-strength alloy rims by DID are coupled to CNC machined hubs using lightweight spokes and silver anodized aluminum nipples.
 Lightweight but strong and reliable construction → minimum unsprung weight
Tires
Dunlop Geomax AT 81 tires are fitted as standard with a 18-inch rear sizing for off-road performance.
 Developed in top-level off-road racing → enhanced all-round performance
Bodywork
Modern and functional bodywork in white with traditional Husqvarna blue and yellow accents mark a simplistic yet stylish Swedish design. The ergonomics have been specifically tailored to deliver greater control and comfort, enabling riders to perform at the highest level for extended periods of time. The seat has a low-profile and a high-grip cover for superior comfort and control in all conditions.
 Bodywork → distinctive looks, modern colors and graphics
 Ergonomics → confidence-inspiring riding position in all riding situations
 Seat → greater comfort and superior control
TECHNICAL INFORMATION BY MODEL
FX 350
The FX 350 shares much of its engine and chassis architecture with the motocross FC 350, but is tailored for closed course off-road usage. With a maximum output of 58 hp, the FX 350 has a 450 rivalling power-to-weight ratio while retaining the light, agile handling of 250-class machines. This is matched with an advanced electronics package featuring launch control, switchable engine maps and traction control resulting in a versatile, high performance package. Include a larger 6-speed transmission, large fuel capacity and an 18-inch rear wheel and the FX 350 is perhaps the greatest off-road machine ever created by Husqvarna.
Engine
The 350 cc DOHC engine weighs in at only 60 pounds and has a maximum power output of 58 hp. The engine is specifically designed with performance, weight and mass centralization as key criteria. As a result, all shaft arrangements have been positioned to allow oscillating masses to occupy the ideal center of gravity while all parts are engineered to offer the best possible performance while adding the least possible weight.
 Performance, weight, mass centralization → 58 hp and only 60 lbs
 Shaft arrangements → oscillating masses at ideal center of gravity
Cylinder head
The FX 350 features the same DOHC design as the FC 350 with polished camshafts and DLC coated finger followers reducing friction and improving overall performance. Added to the design are larger titanium valves (36.3 mm intake and 29.1 mm exhaust) which allow the engine to rev freely to the 13,400 rpm ceiling.
 Large titanium valves → 36.3 mm intake and 29.1 mm exhaust
 Polished camshafts, Finger followers with DLC coating → reduced friction, better performance
Cylinder and piston
The 88mm bore and 57.5mm stroke cylinder features a large diameter and lightweight forged bridged-box-type piston by CP. As a result, the relatively low oscillating masses deliver exceptional power, high revs and a very wide power band. The compression ratio is 14:1.
 Lightweight 88mm diameter piston → reduces oscillating masses
 Forged bridged-box-type piston → high performance and reliability
Crankshaft
A superior quality crankshaft is at the heart of the high output, high-revving FX 350 engine. The plain big end bearing featuring two force-fitted bearing shells ensure maximum reliability and durability, guaranteeing long service intervals of 100 hours.
 Plain big end bearing → increased durability and service intervals
Crankcases
The FX 350 features an engine design with mass-centralization and weight reduction as the main goals. All the major components have been positioned to achieve the best possible center of gravity. As a result, the motorcycle benefits from superb handling while ensuring a light and compact engine design.
High-pressure die cast production processes keep the overall weight to a minimum, resulting in a thin wall thickness while retaining reliability. The iconic Husqvarna logo adorns the bronze finished crankcase covers.
 Crankcases → mass-centralization
 High pressure die cast production process → thin walls for reduced weight, while maintaining strength
Gearbox
The compact 6-speed semi-close gearbox features a low-friction coating on the shifting fork ensuring smooth and precise shifting. The gear lever features a design that prevents dirt build-up ensuring easy operation in the toughest conditions. An advanced gear sensor allows for specific engine maps in each gear.
 6-speed gearbox → perfectly suited for off-road usage
 Integrated gear sensor → specific engine maps for each gear
CSS clutch
The 350 cc engine features a CSS (coil spring steel) clutch with Magura hydraulics and lever. The CSS clutch has six coil springs and 7 clutch plates, and a one-piece CNC machined steel clutch basket.
 CSS clutch → lighter with more consistent clutch action
 Magura hydraulic system → German-made precision and quality
Off-Road Specific Equipment
A large 2.2 gallon fuel tank gives the FX 350 the extra range needed for longer loops, while a 6-speed semi-close transmission is perfectly suited for tackling the toughest off-road courses. The rear wheel is an 18-inch unit with Dunlop AT 81 off-road tires front and rear. A side stand completes the off-road transformation of the FX 350.
Benefits
 450-class performance with less effort
 250-class maneuverability and agility
 Standard map switch and launch control
 Magura hydraulic clutch for consistent, maintenance-free operation
 Reliable and dependable electric start
FX 450
Husqvarna’s new for 2017 FX 450 offers class leading performance in a lightweight, capable package. All aspects are designed to offer exceptional performance in conjunction with rider comfort and ergonomics making the FX 450 equally appealing to amateur and professional off-road riders alike. Traction control, map select and WP AER 48 forks are just a few of the standard features which ensure the FX 450 embodies premium quality and feel. Off-road specific features raise the FX 450 to the top of the class.
Engine
The SOHC engine is the perfect example of the advanced engineering techniques used by Husqvarna motorcycles offering a peak power of 63 hp at an overall weight of just 61.3 pounds. Mass-centralization is key in the engine design, enabling chassis engineers to position the engine closer to the center of gravity for greatly improved handling and maneuverability.
 Mass centralization → improved handling and reliability
 Performance → 63 hp and only 61.3 lbs
Cylinder head
The compact SOHC cylinder head has been designed to offer the maximum performance and the minimum possible weight. The camshaft actuates four lightweight titanium valves that weigh only 32 g on the intake side and 28 g on the exhaust. The diameter of the intake valves is 40 mm, while on the exhaust it is 33 mm. Low-friction DLC coating on the rocker arm and low-friction chain guides offer optimum efficiency and reliability.
 SOHC → compact engine design
 Titanium valves → low weight, only 32 g on intake and 28 g on exhaust
 DLC coating & optimized chain guides → reduced friction
Cylinder and piston
The lightweight aluminum cylinder is an engineering masterpiece. Featuring a 95 mm bore and a CP bridge-box-type piston which weighs only 320 g. The compression ratio is 12.6:1 for an amazing peak output of 63 hp.
 Lightweight aluminum cylinder → 95 mm bore
 Lightweight CP forged bridged-box-type piston → high performance, reduced oscillating masses
Crankshaft
The inertia produced by the crankshaft has been carefully calculated to deliver optimal traction and ride-ability from the powerful 450 cc plant. The crankshaft is specifically positioned to harness the rotating mass in the ideal center of gravity resulting in a lightweight and agile handling feel. A plain big end bearing comprising of two force-fitted bearing shells ensure maximum reliability and durability, guaranteeing long service intervals of 100 hours.
 Crankshaft position → ideal center of gravity, improved handling
 Plain big end bearing and force-fitted bearing shells → increased durability and service intervals
Crankcases
The crankcases have been designed to house the shaft arrangements and internals of the engine in the position that offers the best possible handling. Additionally, the position of the clutch shaft keeps the clutch above the oil level resulting in decreased friction and increased efficiency.
High-pressure die cast production processes keep the overall weight to a minimum, resulting in thin wall thickness while retaining reliability. The historical Husqvarna logo adorns the bronze finished crankcase covers.
 Design → optimized mass-centralization, increased efficiency
 High pressure die cast production process → thin walls for reduced weight, while maintaining strength
Gearbox
The new 5-speed gearbox has a low-friction coating on the shifting fork guaranteeing smooth and precise shifting. The gear lever features a design that prevents dirt build-up and keeps the lever tip in its original position even in the toughest conditions. An advanced gear sensor allows for specific engine maps in each gear.
 5-speed gearbox → smooth and precise shifting
 Integrated gear sensor → specific engine maps for each gear
DDS clutch
The FX 450 features a DDS (Dampened Diaphragm Steel) clutch as opposed to the CSS clutch found on the FX 350.
The exclusive characteristics of this system include a single diaphragm steel pressure plate instead of traditional coil springs. It integrates a damping system for better traction and durability. The clutch basket is a single-piece CNC machined steel component that allows the use of thin steel liners and contributes to the compact design of the engine.
 New DDS clutch → lighter with better modulation and improved durability
 Magura hydraulic system → perfect clutch modulation
Off-Road Specific Equipment
A large 2.2 gallon fuel tank gives the FX 450 the extra range needed for longer loops. The rear wheel is an 18-inch unit with Dunlop AT 81 off-road tires front and rear. A side stand completes the off-road transformation of the FX 450.
Benefits
 Most powerful Husqvarna off-road engine ever developed
 Intuitive and confidence-inspiring riding experience
 Advanced electronics include traction control, launch control and adjustable engine maps
 Exclusive DDS clutch with Magura hydraulics for smooth and light clutch action
 Electric starter and compact Li-Ion battery
TX 300
Completely new for 2017, the TX 300 signifies the constant development and secure future of the historic 250cc 2-stroke in the Husqvarna off-road line-up. With a newly designed chassis based on the new generation 2016 FC and TC models, the TX 300 is a purpose-built closed course racing 2-stroke with off-road specific features. A larger fuel tank, an 18-inch rear wheel and a side-stand increase the ability and usability of the TX for its indented purpose. Additionally, the lightweight 2-stroke engine is completely redesigned and features increased efficiency, more centralized masses as well as a substantial reduction in vibration. As a result the TX 300 now offers a refined and manageable closed course racing package.
New Engine
The 300cc 2-stroke engine has for long been the best combination of unsurpassed power and lightweight construction. The simplicity and low maintenance cost of the 2-stroke motor has made it a favorite amongst riders for generations. Although the previous TX 300 engine was known to be the most competitive in its class, development has continued to offer Husqvarna customers a new state-of-the-art 2-stroke engine. The TX 300 engine has a completely new construction featuring a new shaft arrangements for better mass centralization, a new counter balancer shaft reducing vibration, a new twin-valve controlled power valve and re-worked 6-speed semi-close gearbox.
New Cylinder
The 72 mm bore cylinder features a newly developed power valve system which delivers a smooth and controlled power throughout the RPM range. This can be further customized by simply changing two springs supplied altering the power delivery for different track conditions and rider preference. The new cylinder and cylinder head incorporate a new water jacket design which guarantees better heat dissipation and increased cooling under the most extreme conditions. New cylinder head mountings secure the engine to the frame while reducing vibration, ensuring a smooth ride.
 New cylinder, head and power valve → improved performance, power delivery and cooling
 New cylinder head mounts → better fixation, reduced vibration
New Piston
The new piston has an optimized shape and fits perfectly within the new cylinder. Additionally, the diameter of the piston crown has been increased for increased stability and reliability.
 New piston → increased stability and reliability
New Engine casings
The new TX 300 engine is designed with mass centralization as a key theme. As a result the lightweight, die-cast engine cases have been developed to accommodate new shaft arrangements. The clutch shaft is now 4mm higher while the crankshaft position is 19.5 mm higher centralizing oscillating mass and improving ride-ability. Additionally the counter balancer shaft has been integrated in a very compact manner in order to not affect the overall design while new engine covers offer better resistance from wear created by riders boots.
 New die cast engine cases → new shaft arrangement, improved mass centralization
 New engine covers → better resistance to wear
New Counter balancer shaft
The new engine design has allowed for the implementation of a laterally mounted counter balancer shaft. This shaft significantly reduces vibrations resulting in a more smooth and comfortable ride with less rider fatigue.
 New counter balancer shaft → significantly reduced vibration
New Crankshaft
The new crankshaft features the same 72mm stroke as the previous generation but the balance has been optimized in conjunction with the new counter balancer shaft for minimum vibration. The crankshaft is placed in the perfect position to centralize mass resulting in improved agility and handling.
 New crankshaft → optimally balanced to reduce vibration, centralize oscillating mass
New Carburetor
The 2017 TX 300 now features a 38mm flat slide Mikuni TMX carburetor replacing the previous Keihin model. This new carburetor provides a more smooth and controllable power delivery with optimal performance over the entire RPM range. Additionally, it is also very easy to tune.
 New 38mm Mikuni carburetor → improved power delivery, optimal performance
New Transmission
A new 6-speed semi-close ratio gearbox has been developed to compliment the off-road usage of the TX. A revised shift mechanism ensures precise and easy shifting while an innovative shift level reduces dirt build up guaranteeing easy operation in even the toughest conditions.
 New 6-speed semi-close ratio gearbox → precise and easy shifting
 New gear lever → prevents dirt build up and blockage
New Clutch
The TX 300 features a DDS (damped diaphragm steel) clutch. What this means is the clutch used a diaphragm spring instead of the more common coil spring design which allows for a much lighter clutch action. This design also allows for a damping system which increases both traction and durability.
This combined with the Magura hydraulic system guarantees a light and modular clutch feeling which is almost maintenance and adjustment free.
 DDS clutch → light action with integrated damping system, increased traction and reliability
 Magura hydraulic system → light and modular clutch action, almost maintenance free
New Exhaust
The new exhaust pipe is manufactured by WP performance systems using a 3-dimensional stamping process. After the elements of the exhaust have been shaped it is robot welded to ensure the best durability.
 New exhaust pipe → increased durability
Off-Road Specific Equipment
A large 2.2 gallon fuel tank gives the TX 300 the extra range needed for longer loops. The 6-speed semi-close transmission is perfectly suited for tackling the toughest off-road courses. The rear wheel is an 18-inch unit with Dunlop AT 81 off-road tires front and rear. A side stand completes the off-road transformation of the TX 300.
Benefits
 State of the art 2-stroke technology
 Very competitive power to weight ratio
 Reduced maintenance costs
 Hydraulic clutch
 Excellent handling and agility