Husquvarna launched the WR450 at the peak of its worldwide dominance in 1972. This example recently for sale on eBay might be one of the very best available.
item 1 of 8
Swedish manufacturer Husqvarna - opens in new window or tab. was established as a firearms manufacturer in 1689. Two centuries later, after spells making sewing machines, cooking equipment, and munitions, Husqvarna rolled out its first bicycle. Patents were registered, and seven years later, Husqvarna built the first motorcycle bearing its name.
Competition Success
The Japanese revolutionized the world of sports bikes on road and track. But during the 1960s and ’70s, Husqvarna reduced British four-stroke, off-road machines - opens in new window or tab. into obsolete museum pieces.
1959 saw the Swedes bag their first World Motocross Championship. For the following three decades, Huskys would feature prominently in the off-road scene, winning an impressive 14 World Motocross Championships - opens in new window or tab., 24 Enduro World Championships, and 11 Baja 1000 triumphs across various capacity classes.
Peak Husqvarna
With a raft of prestigious championships under its belt, the ambitious Swedes understood the need to keep innovating. The 1972 WR450 showcased Husqvarna’s determination to stay at the front of the pack.
Husqvarna made its lineup more user-friendly by adopting the popular left-side gear shift setup we now take for granted. All of its transmissions boasted five speeds. Frames were new, as was the Femsa ignition system - opens in new window or tab., which could support a lighting kit.
The highlight was the new 450-cc two-stroke motor. It delivered a broad spread of torque as well as screaming top-end power. This powerplant kept Husqvarna in the hunt for honors throughout the 1970s when Suzuki - opens in new window or tab. and Maico - opens in new window or tab. were also dedicated to competition.
Iconic ’70s Styling
The WR450 screams “1970s dirt bike.” There’s plenty of front and rear suspension travel and suitably knobbly tires. The lightweight frame looks so slight that you’d question its strength if you didn’t know who designed and built it. With its deep cooling fins, the chunky motor fills the frame, and a modest tank and seat sit above. It looks perfect for lightweight, competitive off-road duty, down to the polished aluminum mudguards - opens in new window or tab..
This WR450 on eBay underwent restoration some years ago using original, restored, or reproduced parts. The motorcycle's chain and sprockets - opens in new window or tab., as well as number boards - opens in new window or tab., wheels, seat, and fuel tank - opens in new window or tab. all look like they’ve been renovated sympathetically and not overdone. Once completed, the bike ran briefly before being prepared for storage and then placed on display for six years.
Readying this Husky for use should be relatively easy. Given the sturdy nature of the machine, it would be a shame not to use it again.
About the author
Share your feedback
This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.