Husaberg FE 450 IE [2009 - 2012]: The Off-Road Maverick Reimagined

Introduction

When Husaberg unveiled the FE 450 IE in 2009, it wasn’t just a refresh—it was a revolution. This generation marked a bold departure from conventional enduro design, blending Scandinavian engineering with avant-garde innovation. With its radical 70° cylinder angle, electronic fuel injection (EFI), and a chassis that prioritized agility, the FE 450 IE redefined what riders could expect from a mid-displacement enduro machine.

Riding the FE 450 feels like straddling a piece of moto-history. It’s a bike that demands attention not just for its blue-and-yellow livery but for how it challenges norms. Whether you’re slicing through tight singletrack or clawing up rocky inclines, this Husaberg generation remains a testament to thinking outside the box—even over a decade later.

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Engine Performance: Precision Meets Grunt

At the heart of the FE 450 IE lies its pièce de résistance: a 449cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine with a 70° forward-tilted cylinder. This isn’t just a styling quirk—it’s a calculated move to centralize mass. By positioning the crankshaft closer to the bike’s center of gravity, Husaberg reduced rotational inertia, making the bike feel lighter and more responsive mid-corner.

The SOHC valvetrain with titanium intake valves and Keihin EFI delivers a linear powerband. With 47–50 hp (35–37 kW) and 48 Nm (35.4 lb-ft) of torque, the FE 450 isn’t the most explosive 450 on the market, but it’s arguably one of the most rideable. The throttle response is crisp yet forgiving, making it ideal for technical terrain where precise throttle control is key.

Riders will appreciate the lack of abrupt power hits. Instead, the FE 450 builds momentum smoothly, pulling strongly from 3,000 rpm onward. The EFI system adapts seamlessly to altitude and temperature changes—no more jetting headaches before a mountain ride. The hydraulic clutch (a nod to KTM parts-sharing) offers buttery engagement, reducing arm fatigue during long hauls.

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Handling & Suspension: Dance Partner in the Dirt

If the engine is the soul, the chassis is the FE 450’s backbone. The double-cradle 25CrMo4 steel frame paired with a polyethylene subframe strikes a balance between rigidity and flex. At 112 kg (247 lbs) dry, it’s roughly 5–10 kg (11–22 lbs) lighter than many contemporary 450s, and you feel it immediately when flicking the bike through switchbacks.

The WP suspension setup is tailored for enduro brutality:
- Front: 48mm USD forks with 300mm (11.8") of travel.
- Rear: WP PDS shock with 320mm (12.6") of travel.

In slower, technical sections, the FE 450 shines. The suspension soaks up roots and rocks without deflecting, and the short 1,482mm (58.3") wheelbase lends razor-sharp turn-in. However, push it into high-speed whoops or desert stretches, and the soft damping reveals its limits. The front end can feel vague, and headshake rears its ugly head without careful weight distribution.

Ground clearance sits at 345mm (13.6")—enough to clear most obstacles, though the lack of exhaust heat shields (a curious omission) means melted gear is a real risk.

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Ergonomics & Comfort: Tall, Slim, and Ready to Rally

Husaberg’s "rider-first" ethos is evident in the FE 450’s layout. The 970mm (38.2") seat height is lofty, but the narrow frame and sculpted seat make it manageable for riders over 5'8" (173cm). Standing up feels natural, with wide handlebars offering leverage for aggressive maneuvering.

The 8.5-liter (2.25-gallon) fuel tank is a double-edged sword. It keeps the bike svelte but limits range to roughly 100–120 km (60–75 miles) under hard riding—plan your adventures accordingly.

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Competition: How Does the FE 450 IE Stack Up?

The FE 450’s closest rivals include the KTM 450 EXC, Yamaha WR450F, and Honda CRF450X. Here’s where the Husaberg carves its niche:

• KTM 450 EXC: Shares components (clutch, brakes) but feels heavier. The KTM’s PDS suspension is plusher at speed, but the Husaberg’s centralized mass gives it an edge in tight woods.
• Yamaha WR450F: More mid-range punch but lacks the FE 450’s flickability. The Yamaha’s 5-speed gearbox also feels restrictive compared to Husaberg’s 6-speed.
• Honda CRF450X: Reliable but dated. The Honda’s carbureted engine can’t match the EFI refinement, and its weight distribution feels front-heavy.

The FE 450’s standout trait is its nimbleness. It’s a bike that rewards skill in technical terrain but asks for patience in wide-open sections.

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Maintenance: Keeping the Blue Beast Alive

Owning an FE 450 IE requires diligence, but it’s far from high-maintenance:

1. Oil Changes: Use SAE 10W-50 synthetic. Capacity is 1.35L (1.43 quarts) with a filter change. Stick to 15-hour intervals for hard riding.
2. Valve Checks: Every 30 hours. Intake: 0.10–0.15mm (0.004–0.006"), exhaust: 0.12–0.17mm (0.005–0.007").
3. Air Filter: Clean after every ride. The downdraft intake loves fresh airflow.
4. Chain: The X-Ring 5/8 x 1/4" chain thrives with regular lubrication. Adjust tension to 50–55mm (2.0–2.2") of free play.
5. Coolant: Replace annually with ethylene glycol-based fluid. Capacity: 1.0L (1.06 quarts).

Pro Tip: Upgrade the exhaust heat shielding (available at MOTOPARTS.store) to protect your gear. Also, swap the stock grips for high-density foam to reduce vibration fatigue.

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Final Thoughts

The Husaberg FE 450 IE isn’t a bike for everyone—it’s a bike for riders who value innovation and aren’t afraid to stand out. Its quirks (looking at you, exhaust pipe) are outweighed by its genius, especially in technical terrain where precision matters most.

While newer models have eclipsed it in tech, the 2009–2012 FE 450 remains a cult classic. It’s a reminder that sometimes, breaking the mold creates something unforgettable.

Ready to personalize your FE 450? Explore MOTOPARTS.store’s curated selection of aftermarket upgrades—because even legends deserve a little tweaking.

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Specifications sheet

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