Husky go five alive in 2011
By TMX Archives on 3rd Dec 10
Husqvarna is a brand that has high hopes for 2011. The company, which originated and built-up an enviable reputation in Sweden, then emigrated to Italy, is now (still based in Italy) looking for a prosperous future under German (BMW) ownership.
Husky, with a really comprehensive line-up of models, both Motocross and Enduro, is looking to expand sales in all its markets but has high-hopes in Britain following a change of importer with Husqvarna now calling all the shots itself.
The range of machinery is impressive and covers the full spectrum of Enduro classes and offers both traditional two-stroke and state-of-the-art four-stroke power units in various capacities. The 125/250 two-strokes continue the company's long tradition of producing competitive two-strokes and with strokers making a strong comeback in off-road races, particularly hare and hounds type events, the rejuvenated smaller Huskies are right in there with the opposition.
Meanwhile, Husky continues to develop its four-stroke range. This sector of the enduro market is a very competitive field, with all the Japanese big-hitters plus the likes of European force KTM, as well as the smaller TM, Beta and Sherco factories, all in there. But Husky has not only decided to meet them head-on, it has also upped the pace. The TE250/300, engine unit is the smallest, lightest unit on the market and the short-stroke format is unique in the class. And Husky has been developing the motor for several years now, gaining Mikuni electronic fuel injection and dual mapping.
And new for 2011 is the awesome TE449/511 which utilises the BMW designed engine which has been handed to Husky for a bit of specialised packing as they understand off-road a little better than the German giant. This is not the most prominent class amongst buyers these days, which in general has moved down the capacity ladder, but for an experienced fast pilot it is one wicked off-road machine...
The Huskies have an individual styling that runs right through the range. It's not our job to say whether or not they look good - that's up to you. Styling is a very personal thing and just as some people love Kawasaki green and others don't, so some of you will absolutely love the Huskies, others won't. You certainly won't confuse your Husky with another marque when searching for your bike in a crowded parc ferme.
And as we have said there is plenty of choice in the Husky range, a revvy 125 screamer or a stump-pulling 511 four-stroke stonker, you pays your money and you takes your choice.
CARL TILEY was let loose on the Huskies on a wet November day down in deepest Wales...
Full test and images in T+MX News, dated December 3, 2010