2021 Husqvarna FC 250

The FC 250 offers a user-friendly package worthy of defending its third place finish in the 250 four-stroke shootout.

The Husqvarna FC 250 is the Austrian brand’s 250 four-stroke motocross bike that took bronze in Dirt Rider’s 2021 250 four-stroke shootout. It is user-friendly thanks to a predictable and smooth engine, low ride height, and chop-absorbing suspension, providing the defending testimony to its third place finish from the previous 2020 comparison.

The FC sees updates to the suspension, specifically, with the new mid-valve damping system WP Xact fork. The fork cartridges and outer tube have also been shortened 10mm. Aesthetic updates include new graphics and seat cover texture.

At $9,399, the FC 250 has the highest MSRP of the 250 four-strokes.

Powered by the same liquid-cooled, DOHC, 250cc four-stroke engine seen in the KTM 250 SX-F, the FC 250 produces very similar power figures that were recorded on our in-house dyno: 40.3 hp at 13,300 rpm and 19.3 pound-feet of torque at 9,100 rpm.

The engine character really comes to life from the midrange to the top-end, and although torque feel isn’t as plentiful as a bike like the Yamaha YZ250F, it is stronger than the likes of the Honda CRF250R and Kawasaki KX250 and comparable to its KTM equivalent.

The Magura clutch contributes to easy modulation, though some DR test riders said, “It needed more input to help with shifting under load,” and that “keeping the clutch lever adjusted as far out as they were comfortable with was key to having good clutch input and easy shifting.”

Thanks to its lower ride height compared to the other models in the class, the 2021 FC 250 is a neutral-handling machine. It corners better than ever and, as test rider Allan Brown stated, “…is stable and almost no longer has a hinged feeling under load.” The chassis is complemented by the carbon fiber subframe (the only one in the class) that provides the most comfort and suppleness in regard to chassis feel.

The Brembo brakes are the same seen on the KTM 250 SX-F and as such are at the top of the totem pole for their best-in-class stopping power.

Fuel economy figures are not currently available.

Ergonomics are also neutral. The bike has a well-proportioned rider triangle and more of a sit-on feel, according to our review. The bodywork is neat and tidy for an uninhibited ride and the ProTaper handlebar offers more flex and comfort than the Neken bar seen on the KTM 250 SX-F.

The FC features two engine maps that are selectable via a map switch. This switch also operates launch and traction control.

Warranty coverage for the FC 250 is 30 days from date of purchase.

The FC 250 has high-quality components in stock trim. From its ProTaper handlebar down to its clean unobtrusive bodywork, the FC provides top-notch fit and finish that reflect its premium price tag.