Husqvarna WR125 / WR250 and WR300 - 2009 models
By TMX Archives on 14th Aug 08
Husqvarna has a mighty range of Enduro models for 2009. Jonty Edmunds was invited to the Italian factorys official European launch last week and here he gives his thoughts on the three two-strokes: WR125/ WR250 and WR300.
One of the most noteworthy points regarding Husqvarna's two-stroke machines is the fact that the German owned Italian firm are once again taking a keen interest in the two-stroke market after several years focusing almost solely on four strokes.
Recognising, like several other European manufacturers, that demand for two-strokes is strengthening, although they've not introduced any 100 per cent new two-stroke models, the arrival of the WR300 expands the range to three with the WR125 in particular receiving numerous changes and upgrades. All 2009 models are fitted with newly calibrated Marzocchi forks and a new Sachs shock absorber as well as all brake discs being "daisy" or Wave pattern to improve stopping regardless of surface conditions. As for looks, the headlamp unit is slimmer and more aggressive and houses a new, more compact, lighter, digital display.
The WR125 now has a completely new frame with geometry stemming from the four-stroke models. Claimed to be more comfortable, lighter and more reliable, the layout and appearance have been totally redesigned with 80 per cent of the components being new, including fuel tank and filler cap, seat, side panels, front mudguard, radiator guard, air filter box and frame protectors.
The newly designed frame, which is made from oval and box section steel tubing, provides a stronger and lighter structure resulting in changes to the geometry, wheelbase, steering angle and weight distribution. The foot pegs have been moved forward by 15mm and the seat height has decreased of 10mm. The seat is more comfortable and its new shape provides a better riding position and makes it easier for the rider to change position.
The air filter box is also a completely new, more compact design. The rear suspension has a new Soft Damp system with a new leverage ratio and progression curve, claimed to optimise traction. The new tubular aluminium swing arm features an asymmetric geometry extruded box aluminium centre housing an off-set shock absorber. The 2009 WR125 now has a five-port cylinder from the CR motocross models and a new 38mm TMX Mikuni carburettor. The exhaust system and silencer are completely new.
The WR250 has seen the same improvements made to the chassis components as all the other models. As for looks, the front headlamp unit is lighter, much more compact and houses a digital display that provides details about the main engine functions. The side racing number panels, like the one at the front, are white and blend perfectly with the new '09 graphics.
The black anodised wheels feature "daisy" or Wave type brake discs.
The suspension has been completely recalibrated in line with the experience gained by the official Husqvarna Team riders in the Enduro World Championship series. The 50mm Marzocchi forks have new settings, while the Sachs shock absorber fitted to the rear is completely new. The engine features a new 38mm Mikuni TMX carburettor as well as the new "V Force 3" reed valve system and a newly designed inlet manifold.
Starting life as a transformation kit for the WR 250, the WR300 is now a fully-fledged member of the Husqvarna enduro family and newly introduced for '09. Claimed to be a replica of the winning machine raced by Seb Guillaume in the World Enduro Championship series, the WR300 is designed to offer the rider progressive, useable power.
The increase to 300cc is thanks to an increase in the bore and the new piston now measures 72 mm (66.4 mm on the 250) to give 293.1cc. Apart from the piston and bore, there is also a completely new exhaust valve and changes to the cylinder head and exhaust pipe in comparison with the WR250. The engine now features a "V Force" reed valve system and 38mm TMX Mikuni carburettor. The WR 300 chassis components have been updated as all the other Enduro models with new disc brakes, newly calibrated forks and shock absorber and a new headlamp unit with compact digital display.
What's new for 2009:
Frame
Tank
Seat/ side panels/ mudguards
Air filter box
Wheelbase/ steering/ weight distribution
Reduced seat height
Footpegs moved forward by15 mm
Aluminium sub-frame
Aluminium side stand
Swinging arm
Soft damped suspension and progression curve
Specification:
