How To Install a Clutch Kit on a 2011 Husaberg FX450 Dirt Bike

How to Install a Clutch Kit on a 2011 Husaberg FX450

Why replace the clutch on your 2011 Husaberg FX450

The FX450 is a 450cc fourstroke offroad machine used for enduro and aggressive trail riding. A wet, multiplate clutch on this bike endures heavy use aggressive launches, frequent slipping in technical sections, sand, or high heat can glaze friction plates, weaken springs, or notch basket fingers. Symptoms that tell you it's time for a clutch kit include slipping under load, dragging or incomplete disengagement, inconsistent lever feel, hard shifting, or an unusually long lever travel. Replacing the kit restores throttle response, solid power transfer, and crisp shifts.

Overview of the FX450 clutch system

The 2011 Husaberg FX450 uses a cableoperated, wet multiplate clutch. That means: check cable free play and routing first because improper cable tension or binding can mimic wear; all friction and steel drive plates sit inside the clutch basket submerged in oil; pressure plate and springs create clamping force; the hub and basket transmit torque. Regular inspection of basket fingers and hub splines helps avoid repeat failures.

Tools and prep

• Basic metric sockets and ratchet, clutch holding tool or impact gun, pliers, screwdriver set
• New clutch kit (friction plates, steel plates, springs, thrust washer if included)
• Fresh engine oil and filter (you'll likely drain oil or at least recover some oil)
• Clean rags, drain pan, small container for fasteners
• Clutch cable lubricant and grease for light reassembly tasks

Preparing the bike

Warm the engine briefly to thin the oil, then place the FX450 on a stable stand. Remove seat and any plastics that block clutch cover access. Position a drain pan beneath the engine and either drain the oil or be prepared to catch oil when the cover comes off. Clean the area around the clutch cover to avoid introducing dirt.

Removing the clutch cover and assemblies

• Loosen and remove clutch cover bolts evenly. Expect oil to escape once the cover is loosened tip it carefully to drain into the pan.
• With the cover off, note the clutch spring layout and pressure plate orientation. Support the pressure plate while removing the springs and bolts in a crisscross pattern to relieve pressure evenly.
• Remove the pressure plate and pull out the alternating friction and steel plates. Keep plates in order if you want to compare wear.

Inspection checklist

• Friction plates – look for glazing, burned surfaces, or heavy thinning. Slight discoloration is normal but glazing or scored surfaces means replacement.
• Steel drive plates – check for blueing, warpage, or raised heat marks; feel for burrs on edges.
• Clutch basket – inspect fingers for notching where plates engage. Notched basket fingers cause drag and inconsistent engagement.
• Clutch hub and inner splines – confirm splines are not rounded or heavily worn; excessive play lets the hub slip on the splines.
• Thrust washer and pushrod – inspect for wear, galling, or mushrooming. Replace if deformed.
• Springs – compare free lengths. If springs look compressed or inconsistent, replace them with the kit springs.
• Oil condition – dark, contaminated oil accelerates clutch wear. Note oil quality before reassembly.

Preparing new plates and components

Soak new friction plates in fresh engine oil for at least 15-30 minutes if they're designed for a wet clutch. This helps them absorb oil for immediate, correct friction characteristics. Lightly coat steel plates with oil before installation. Clean and lightly grease the clutch pushrod splines and any bearings that require lubrication, but keep oil off friction surfaces except for the intentional soak.

Reinstalling the clutch pack

• Install plates in the correct alternating order: friction, steel, friction, steel, etc. Start and end as the design requires so pressure plate seats squarely. If you kept the old order it's fine to replicate; otherwise follow the pack thickness until it fits snugly.
• Seat the pressure plate and install the new springs. Tighten spring bolts by hand first, then snug them in a crisscross pattern so pressure is even across the plate.
• Final tightening should be even; don't apply heavy force that could distort the pressure plate. If you use a clutch holding tool to stop the hub rotation, do so gently.

Reassembling the cover and finishing work

• Clean clutch cover mating surfaces and replace the cover gasket if one is used. Reinstall the cover and handstart bolts, then tighten evenly to seat the gasket.
• Refill engine oil to the proper level with the recommended oil type for your FX450. New plates and springs perform best in clean oil.
• Adjust clutch cable free play: because the FX450 uses a cable clutch, set a small free play at the lever per comfortable feel – not too tight or too loose. Check the cable routing for kinks or binding. Lubricate the cable where accessible to reduce friction and extend life.
• With the engine off, squeeze the clutch lever several times to let plates settle and to move oil into the pack. Start the bike and run at idle; test lever engagement and make fine adjustments to free play.

Specific cableclutch tips for the FX450

Because cable stretch can mimic worn clutches, inspect the adjusters near the lever and at the engine. If you had to max out adjusters to take up slack, inspect the cable for internal wear and replace if necessary. Binding cables will give inconsistent lever feel even with a new kit, so ensure smooth operation before declaring the clutch cured.

Riding context — what to expect after installation

After a properly installed clutch kit on your FX450 you'll notice crisper throttle response during aggressive starts, improved uphill power delivery, and cleaner shifts in tight woods or sand. For riders who push launches or ride in highheat environments, inspect the clutch more often and use quality oil to reduce glazing and prolong life.

Final checks

• Verify no oil leaks around the cover and that engine oil level is correct.
• Test ride gently to confirm engagement and no strange noises. Return to check fasteners and lever free play after a short run.
• Keep a note of hours or miles on the kit to establish a replacement interval based on your riding style.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Clutch Kits for a 2011 Husaberg FX450 Dirt Bike.

Shop Clutch Baskets for a 2011 Husaberg FX450 Dirt Bike.

Shop Clutch Springs for a 2011 Husaberg FX450 Dirt Bike.

Shop Inner Hubs and Pressure Plates for a 2011 Husaberg FX450 Dirt Bike.

Shop Clutch Covers for a 2011 Husaberg FX450 Dirt Bike.

Disclaimer: This guide is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to replace your motorcycle's official owner's manual. Always refer to your manufacturer's documentation for model-specific instructions, torque specifications, safety procedures, and maintenance requirements. If you are unsure or inexperienced, consider seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or technician.