Adventure Rider
Say someone handed you a massive dirt bike, and told you it was a touring bike.
A). Think it was a touring bike, despite the looks of the thing? B). Think you were being misled, and this motorcycle really was an overgrown dirt bike?
That’s the choice you get with the Husqvarna 701 Enduro. It looks like a massive honkin’ enduro bike, but Husqvarna’s website says it’s a “Travel” bike. So what’s the story?
That single-cylinder engine is far more advanced than anything Japan currently sells in the 650 category. Photo: Zac Kurylyk
Not your average thumper
The defining feature of the Husqvarna 701 Enduro is its 693 cc single-cylinder engine. This is the most advanced big-bore single on the market. It’s the most powerful production thumper ever built, rated for 74 horsepower at 8,000 rpm and 54 pound-feet of torque at 6,500 rpm. The engine has a four-valve head, dual counterbalancers and dual spark head, with both sparks receiving individual ignition timing, for optimized fuel burn. There’s even a quickshifter (Husqvarna calls it Easy Shift) Very trick.
Of course, this all adds complexity. It’s great to have lots of muscle, it’s great to have leaning-sensitive traction control and two switchable riding modes. However, this means a lot of extra electronics on-board. This isn’t your old-school simplistic KLR/DR/XR. It’s not as complicated as a modern adventure bike with a twin-cylinder engine, but it’s definitely not a Keep-It-Simple-Stupid design.
However, it’s refreshing to see KTM develop this engine as far as it has (remember: KTM controls Husqvarna now, and this 701 engine is the same as KTM’s latest-generation 690). While the rest of the mainstream motorcycle manufacturers have done little or nothing to improve their big-bore singles since the 1990s, KTM continued to pump RD into the LC4 platform.
It’s not just a thumper it’s an, uh…. super thumper. I wish all the OEMs made a single-cylinder that was this fun. Photo: Laura Deschenes
As a result, the 701 Enduro is a very fun bike to ride, if you like thumpers. You’ve got gobs of torque off the line; the bike lugs along smoothly at low rpm. However, where other big single-cylinder engines used to run out of steam at higher rpm, the 701 just keeps pulling hard. It’s got fistfuls of roll-on power at extra-legal speeds on the highway, where your older carbureted 650 would be wheezing and asking for a break. I last rode a 701 in 2017, and remembered it as the most enjoyable thumper I ever rode. Four years later, aboard the 2021 model, I still feel the same way.
The beauty of the 701’s power curve is, on the street, you run out of steam at roughly the same speed that a ticket would get really expensive. Up until that point, the 701 is mega-fun. After that speed, who cares? You’re not going to be riding around forever at speeds much over 100 mph without losing your license, your bike, or both. Getting to that danger-zone speed is where the real fun is in motorcycling. That’s how I see it, anyway.
Offroad, the traction control system is a handy helper on gravel roads; you can switch it off, if you want to use the rear wheel to powerslide around corners. It’s a bit less convenient than the easy interface on KTM’s adventure bikes, but it’s not too tricky.
Open gravel like this is lots of fun for the 701. For the tight stuff, you need to know what you’re doing. Photo: Laura Deschenes
However, the motor is so torquey that if you have crappy dirt riding technique (like I do, alas!), the 701 is a handful once you get into bumpy, rocky terrain, and I suspect it would be very tricky on tight single-track (unless your initials are Scott Summers, maybe). A ham-fisted approach could result in a narsty case of whiskey throttle. What I’m saying is: If you’re an expert, you could have lots of fun offroad with the 701. If you’re a noob, better start with something easier.
Unfortunately, due to local laws, I wasn’t able to try any dunes or sand with the 701. I suspect the motor would prove to be ridiculously fun in those conditions.
An aggressive chassis
Typically, when you see a dual sport or adventure bike oriented for touring/travel usage, you see the chassis is softened a bit around the edges. The Japanese duallies come with downright soggy forks and shocks; the Euros keep things a bit stiffer, but still, you don’t expect dirt bike performance from a heavy street-legal ADV. Road comfort is the priority.
The 701’s suspension is instead biased towards dirt use. Hairy-chested enduro junkies will tell you it’s a compromise, but when you’re riding the 701, you feel like you’re riding a dirt bike, not a tourer. Again, if you’re an inexperienced dirt rider, you might find the stiff suspenders make the 701 a handful, and I would not recommend it to learners.
The gas tank is hidden away inside that rear subframe, meaning the mass is centralized. Photo: Zac Kurylyk
Personally, I found that some tinkering with the rebound adjustments made the machine much more enjoyable to ride.
One thing I was happy to note: The 2017 model I tested would go into a wobbly headshake sometimes, on quick deceleration. The 2021 model did not do that. I presume Husqvarna has changed some part of the design here; whatever the engineers did, it worked.
What about the rest of the machine? Husqvarna went with the same chrome-moly trellis frame arrangement, and the same plastic subframe with integrated 3.4-gallon fuel tank. This cuts weight, and allows mass centralization. It also means that, with the fuel tank sitting behind and below the seat, it’s difficult to add extra fuel capacity, and throw-over soft luggage also presents a challenge. That means this might not be such a fun “travel bike” after all.
I played around with the clickers and was able to quickly get the front end where I wanted it. Other past reviewers have had the same experience; this bike does not come dialed in for a “One Size Fits All” experience. Photo: Zac Kurylyk
The seat is just as user-unfriendly as before, at a sky-high 36.2 inches, with plank-like padding. You don’t buy this bike expecting all-day comfort, though, and that seat stretches very far forward, almost to the headstock, making it easy to move around for maximum control.
Finally, there’s basically zero wind protection on this bike. I think that’s a good thing; extra plastic would make the 701 heavier, bulkier, and more breakable in the woods. However, if you’re behind the handlebars on this at high speed all day, the windblast will wear you out.
Conclusion
With all that in mind, I don’t think I’d purchase the 701 specifically as a travel bike—but I do think it makes an excellent dual sport, especially if you’re riding in an area with lots of wide-open offroad riding spaces. You can purchase aftermarket fuel tanks, mini-fairings and other bits to make travel easier, but I’m not sure I’d do so. If I was traveling to a place like the Sahara, maybe, and I wanted a powerful dual sport when I got there—but in that case, I might want a bike that with less electro-mechanical complexity.
Funky. modern design sets the 701 apart from its peers in the 650 class. Photo: Zac Kurylyk
If I lived around Baja? Or SoCal, or somewhere else with big sand dunes? I’d love a 701. Even here in the northeast, with much tighter trails, the 701 definitely makes a great backroad blaster, and it’s mega-fun on woods roads. If I could find a beach that’s legal to ride on, this machine would be a gas.
Know what else I would love? I think it would be very cool if Husqvarna built a real travel bike around this engine, with some concessions towards comfort and street handling. A 19-inch front wheel, maybe; a small fairing, a bit more fuel capacity. Something along the lines of KTM’s 390 Adventure, but with less compromise.
Without that option, I must confess that if I could only own one motorcycle, the 701 Enduro would still be a strong contender. It’s the thumper that the Japanese OEMs should be aiming for, instead of letting their 650 designs stagnate. Even if it isn’t a great travel bike, I could travel on it, and if I needed to used the aftermarket to improve the bike’s long-mileage capability, well—that sounds like a fun project.
Husqvarna wants 12,099 for the 701 Enduro in the US, and 13,399 in Canada.
Dirt Legal
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The 2020 Husqvarna Dirt Bike Lineup Explained
If you are thinking about purchasing a new bike, you will want to see what’s in Husqvarna’s 2020 lineup.
We’ve received all the details regarding the 2020 Husqvarna motocross and cross-country models. We even know about their mini motocrosser which is sure to please. So, sit back and relax as we show you what’s new with the 2020 Husqvarna lineup.
20 Husqvarna Cross-Country Models
2020 Husqvarna FX 450
The FX 450 features a powerful engine that’s lightweight and compact. The camshaft is as close to the center of gravity as possible, which further improves the agility and handling. It features a five-speed gearbox that’s designed by PANKL Racing Systems. This lightweight gearbox delivers high levels of reliability and durability. Furthermore, the FX 450 comes complete with a DDS clutch. Not bad.
2020 Husqvarna FX 350
The FX 350 features a 350 cc DOHC engine that weighs less than 60 pounds while pumping out impressive power. It is engineered with a 14.2:1 compression ratio plus a large diameter forged piston that delivers high revs and a wide power Band. It’s also paired to a PANKL six-speed gearbox that’s coated with a low-friction covering for smooth shifting.
2020 Husqvarna TX 300i
The TX 300i is equipped with a 2-stroke engine that provides a lightweight design with unprecedented power.
On the TX 300i, electronic fuel injection was specifically added for the 2020 model year. The 2020 model also features a counterbalancer shaft that’s laterally mounted. This reduces vibrations and provides a more comfortable ride.
The EMS (engine management system) comes with a control unit that’s located under the seat. Riders don’t need to fiddle with jetting now that this bike has temperature and altitude compensation. This bike also comes complete with a six-speed gearbox that guarantees easy and precise shifting. There is also a no-dirt shift lever that’s supposed to prevent the build-up of debris, no matter where you ride.
This bike can handle the spotlight of some of the toughest circuits in racing. Like the rest of these bikes, this model comes with WP XACT shock and fork. Both of these are the same from last year, with some ongoing refinements made as Husqvarna improves their dirt bikes for 2020.
20 Husqvarna Motocross Models
2020 Husqvarna FC 450
The FC 450 features a SOHC cylinder head that’s lightweight and compact. The short profile allows the camshaft to remain as close to the center of gravity as it can.
This only improves the agility and handling of the bike. Furthermore, the aluminum cylinder is engineered with a compression ratio of 12.75:1 for peak output. The engine pairs with a lightweight PANKL Racing System five-speed gearbox. It also comes with the gear lever that won’t pick up dirt, even when riding in rough conditions.
2020 Husqvarna FC 350
The FC 350 features a DOHC engine that weighs less than 60 pounds while still offering significant power. This engine was created to supply maximum performance which is why all the shaft arrangements were made to allow the oscillating masses to achieve an ideal center of gravity.
The heart of this output is the high-quality crankshaft. It has two force-fitted bearing shells that guarantee maximum durability and reliability. The compact PANKL Racing Systems five-speed gearbox has a low-friction coating on the fork to make shifting precise and smooth. It also comes with the no-dirt gear lever to complete the package.
2020 Husqvarna FC 250
An FC 250 provides superior handling and class-leading power. All of the shaft arrangements and engine components were positioned to the center of gravity. This reduces the effect of rotational inertia. The lightweight 250 cc 4-stroke engine is also only 57.5 pounds, keeping the weight as low as possible.
This bike also comes complete with a PANKL Racing Systems five-speed gearbox that features motocross gear ratios.
2020 Husqvarna TC 250
The TC 250 2-stroke engine offers an ideal combination of lightweight design and unrivaled power. It features a low maintenance cost, making it a favorite among motocross riders. The engine is produced with mass centralization as a priority. It houses shaft arrangements in ideal positions plus the die-cast casings centralize mass and improve rideability on this Husqvarna dirt bike.
This bike features a Mikuni TMX carburetor that has an advanced setting for controllable and smoother power delivery. The TC 250 also comes with a five-speed gearbox installed and the no-dirt shift lever.
2020 Husqvarna TC 125
The TC 125 provides a lively performance with its light engine weight of only 37.9 pounds. This motor offers more torque than other 125 cc 2-stroke bikes. That’s why many riders will find this an ideal option when just starting out.
Even the 125’s crankshaft was designed to be as light as it could be with perfect balance. This further reduces vibration while riding and improves handling. Finally, you will find an MX-specific PANKL Racing Systems six-speed gearbox on this Husqvarna dirt bike.
20 Husqvarna Mini Motocross Racer Models
Husqvarna offers a mini motocross range that gives younger riders access to high-tech equipment. They are modeled from the FC and TC racers with 2-stroke powerhouses.
2020 Husqvarna TC 85
There’s no match for the TC 85 in its class. It features a lot of the same tech found in the full-size lineup. You will find a Chromium Molybdenum steel frame and WP Suspension so younger riders can have confidence on the track. It also comes with a strong and lightweight tapered aluminum handlebar that contains an advanced throttle assembly to make free play adjustment easier than ever.
The CNC-machined hubs and aluminum rims are equipped with MAXXIS tires for rideability on many terrains. Finally, there is a self-cleaning gear selector that prevents build-up similar to the lever on the larger models to keep your kids playing for hours at a time.
2020 Husqvarna TC 65
The TC 65 also features new 2-stroke technology to make it competitive. The engine features durable and light materials plus a pressure-controlled exhaust valve for high levels of performance.
It is paired with a six-speed gearbox plus a hydraulic clutch for complete control over power delivery. The chromoly steel, high-strength frame is carefully integrated to benefit suspension and handling. You will also notice that the bodywork got scaled down slightly to fit the rider better.
Young riders will feel the same comfort and control that larger Husqvarna dirt bike models offer on the full-size scale.
2020 Husqvarna TC 50
There is a compact and modern engine inside the TC 50 as well. The crankshaft uses a 3-shaft construction and it’s positioned at the center of gravity. The engine also comes with an automatic centrifugal clutch which reduces complexity for new riders and kids alike.
This bike’s exhaust is robot welded which ensures the highest levels of durability and quality. Plus, you can reduce engine power to 5.5 horsepower for beginner riders simply by installing a special kit provided by Husqvarna Accessories.
Are you planning to buy a bike from Husqvarna’s 2020 lineup?
We would love to hear about it. Leave us a comment and let us know what you are excited about with Husqvarna’s 2020 dirt bike lineup.
First look: 2023 Husqvarna motocross line-up – new subframes
Husqvarna has launched their five-model 2023 motocross model range – TC 125 and TC 250 two strokes and FC, 250, FC 350 and FC 450 four strokes (plus the TX 300, FX 350 and FX 450 XC models) – with the stand out feature a new polyamide and aluminium subframes for all bikes.
As happened with the orange siblings one week ago, these 2023 Husqvarna motocross bikes are in part precursors to the TE and FE Enduro models which we’ll see next year. And, like the KTMs, the new Husky bikes come packed with updates.
The most noticeable ones are the fuel injected two-stroke bikes – which don’t use the TPI engines anymore, but a throttle body type injection system similar to the ones on the 4T and those being used by the likes of Billy Bolt with an electronic exhaust valve.
The four stroke engines have also been updated making them “more compact, more durable, more serviceable and offer the best power-to-weight ratio across the board”, as well as contributing to a better mass centralization.
What is new for 2023:
- New bodywork with specifically tailored ergonomics for easier movement on the motorcycle
- New hydro-formed chromium-molybdenum frames significantly improve anti-squat behaviour
- New topology-optimised die-cast aluminium swingarm provides optimal rigidity and low weight
- New throttle body fuel injection on 2-stroke engines ensures class-leading power and rideability
- New FC 250 and FC 350 DOHC engines deliver class-leading torque and peak power
- New Quickshift sensor ensures seamless upshifting on all 4-stroke models
- New electric start on both 2-stroke models
- New aluminium-polyamide hybrid subframe construction provides specifically calculated rigidity and advanced durability
- New WP XACT 48 mm front forks with AER technology offer more progressive end-of-stroke damping
- New WP XACT rear shock design with CFD-optimised main piston and tool-free adjusters
- New multifunctional Map Select Switch also activates the Quickshifter, Traction, and Launch Control
New subframes
Husqvarna’s previous subframe built on a polyamide and carbon configuration, wasn’t popular with every rider who had one break. Enduro21 has tested the bikes plenty and never had this issue but clearly it was enough for Husky to make a change.
The new one therefore combines polyamide and aluminium in a 60/40% ration respectively and weighs 1.8kg.
The lower part of the subframe, where it’s bolted to the frame, is made of aluminium to make it more robust – and that also makes shortening it easier, something that shorter riders tend to do a lot in hard enduro.
The upper part is the one that continues to be made of polyamide to have less weight higher up. This is made in injection mold and according to Husqvarna this gives it “specific flex characteristics and allows the weight of the assembly to be reduced.”
Six-speed gearbox confirmed on XC models
The gearbox has been one of the big talking points when the 2023 KTM MX models were launched, basically it wasn’t clear for a start if the XC models had five or six gears. With that confirmed form KTM, Husqvarna has also made a point of detailing the six-speed gearbox.
Pankl Racing Systems design and build the transmissions and the say they, “guarantee the highest level of durability and reliability. For 2023, a redesigned shift drum and shift fork improve overall leverage, ensuring significantly smoother and more precise shifting.”
In addition, they have redesigned the tip of the gear lever to prevent so much dirt from entering. If you have taken a look at any factory bikes you will have noticed that they fill this hole with silicone.
Improved riding position
The 2023 Husqvarna MX models carry totally new bodywork that according to the brand improves the driving triangle with a greater surface to squeeze the bike with the knees, especially when riding standing up.
The seat is flatter than previous models and there is a gap between the seat and the air box which will come in handy when they implement it on the enduro bikes, lifting it should be easier.
The 2023 motocross range is already available at official dealers, availability may vary from country to country. For more details on availability and pricing, see your Husqvarna Motorcycles dealer.
Husqvarna EE 5
Husqvarna Australia currently plan to bring this new electric entry level competition off-roader to Australia at some point late in 2019.
The EE 5 is Husqvarna Motorcycles’ first step in electric mobility and draws on the brand’s rich motocross history. The number 5 represents the kilowatt output and while CC refers to cubic centimeters on fuel-driven bikes, EE stands for ‘Electric Engine’ on this model.
The EE 5 is a fully-fledged competition machine that Husqvarna say is capable of rivaling its 50cc fuel-powered counterparts, offering more for young riders starting out in the world of dirt biking. Fully adaptable and adjustable, it is an easy to use motorcycle with the ability to evolve with a rider as he grows in size and ability.
It features the latest high-quality componentry and a design that clearly identifies with Husqvarna values. Apart from being environmentally friendly, the low noise emission makes the motorcycle less intimidating to younger riders and offers the possibility to learn in the comfort of a familiar environment, like at home.
Husqvarna EE 5 features
- Six different ride modes, easy to select
- 907 Wh lithium-ion battery
- Quick charging
- High-end chassis with race proven technology
- Modern, Swedish inspired design
- Ergonomic bodywork adjustable seat height
- WP suspension – XACT air fork and a WP rear shock
Drivetrain Motor
Producing a peak power of 5 kW, the permanent magnet motor features an extremely compact and slim design that is well suited to the smaller chassis. Due to its dust and waterproof layout the aircooled motor is wear and maintenance-free.
The motor is powered by 84 Li-Ion cells, which provide a capacity of 907 Wh in a low 48V configuration, good enough for more than two hours of riding for a beginner, and 25 minutes for the fastest riders, depending on the terrain and conditions. The integrated battery management system (BMS) ensures the safety and longevity of the battery pack.
A state-of-the-art control unit is integrated within the package and guarantees a spontaneous, but controllable power delivery. The use of an electric motor means there is one permanent drive, eliminating the need for a clutch or gearbox. This results in a simple and uncomplicated riding experience for young riders.
The EE 5 is fitted with 84 modern lithium-ion cells, in a robust die-cast aluminium casing mounted just above the motor.
EE 5 Technology
A multi-functional instrument panel located between the steering head and seat allows the user to select six different ride modes, with different power characteristics available to suit pure beginners and experienced racers alike. In addition, the instrument panel displays the remaining charge of the battery.
The external worldwide charger supplying up to 900W can be connected to any 110 or 230 Volt socket and plugs directly into the battery pack for easy charging. The charging time of 45 minutes will provide 80%, while a full charge requires 70 minutes.
The EE 5 is also fitted with a roll-over sensor kill-switch that cuts off the power when needed. A lanyard attached between the rider’s wrist and the kill switch stops the motor when removed, or in the event of an unexpected fall by the rider. The ride modes can be saved with a dongle located below the seat, which prevents younger riders from changing to more powerful ride modes on their own.
Styling Chassis
The bodywork of the EE 5 is modelled on the successful full-size motocross range. This allows smaller riders to experience the same ergonomic feelings, instilling confidence and comfort in all riding conditions.
The high strength chromoly steel frame is slightly adapted to house the electric drivetrain and integrates carefully calculated parameters of longitudinal flex and torsional rigidity to benefit handling and suspension functionality. It guarantees easy handling and precise cornering, along with outstanding stability.
Featuring the latest in suspension technology, the EE 5 is fitted with WP XACT forks. Besides being very light weight, the 35mm USD air forks feature exceptional damping and comfort characteristics, allowing the rider to push their limits with complete confidence. With 205mm of wheel travel, the air unit in the left fork leg can also be adjusted easily with the use of an air pump. This allows for quick adjustment due to rider preferences, weight or track conditions.
Linked directly to the swingarm, the WP monoshock is matched to the front forks for the balance and damping characteristics. Additionally, the rear shock offers 185 mm of suspension travel, is fully adjustable and can be tailored to rider preferences or track conditions.
Featuring the same level of technology offered on the full-size motocross range, the EE 5 is fitted with hydraulically operated brake callipers and waved front and rear brake discs, alongside lightweight, black anodised, aluminium rims that provide the highest levels of strength and reliability. The standard MAXXIS tyres ensure progressive grip on a variety of different terrain.
Modelled on the full-size motocross bikes, the EE 5 features striking graphics in white and yellow, with light blue to differentiate its electric drive. Additionally, the graphics are applied using an in-mould process to ensure the best durability and quality.
Ergonomics
The EE 5 allows the seat height to be adjusted at multiple levels. The standard model comes with a seat height of 698mm, which can be easily reduced in two steps to 653mm. This is done by lowering the bodywork/seat and then mounting the rear shock in an alternative position, together with lowering the front forks in the triple clamps.
In addition, with a Suspension Lowering Kit from the Husqvarna Motorcycles Accessories catalogue, the suspension units can be further lowered for a minimum seat height of just 556mm, which accommodates four-year-old riders, or younger.
The tapered NEKEN handlebars are made of high-quality aluminium alloy for strength and safety. From a central diameter of 28mm to 18mm at the ends, the bars are fitted with a lock-on ODI left side grip, while a newly developed throttle assembly for the electronic drive, with a volcanized ODI grip, is mounted on the right side. The thinner diameter of both grips increases control and reduces fatigue for younger riders with smaller hands. A new handlebar pad offers chest protection.
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The History of Husqvarna Motorcycles – A Legendary Bike
Known to many as Husky, the Swedish made Husqvarna Motorcycles is a globally-recognised brand that offers authentic and rewarding riding experience to consumers.
Though not as popular in Australia as the industry leaders Harley Davidson, Honda, and Yamaha, Husqvarna has still made a name for itself among motorcycle enthusiasts. The brand’s range of innovative street and off-road motorcycles are a testament to the promise of pioneering since 1903 and products of Husqvarna’s long and rich history.
Let’s look back at how it all began for Husqvarna Motorcycles.
Beginning
Husqvarna’s early centuries of existence were nothing related to motorcycle-making. It was founded in 1689 as a weapons factory by the order of the Swedish king, then started manufacturing kitchen appliances and sewing machines out of cast iron in 1872.
Since 1896 Husqvarna’s product range has included bicycles. But not until 1903 did the company enter the motorcycle business when it unveiled the brand’s first “motorized bicycle”. This is the year when the legend of Husqvarna Motorcycles truly began.
The Era of Racing
For thirty years, Husqvarna dedicated its efforts to improve the initial motorcycle concept and made significant changes to the engine, suspension, transmission, and overall body design. This hard work led to the creation of performance motorcycles capable of beating the competition on the racetrack. Indeed, 1933 and 1934 saw the birth of Husqvarna’s dominance at racing, bringing home consecutive victories. The motorcycle brand regularly joined competitions and winning became a company tradition.
The success of Husqvarna Motorcycles increased and continued through the creation of “Moto-cross” racing, a new form of off-road motorcycle sport that became popular in Belgium around 1953. Husqvarna’s single-cylinder motorbikes became the favourite ride of racers because of their lightness and easy-to-adapt capabilities.
The Rise of Silverpilen
In the next two years, Husqvarna focused on manufacturing high-performance machines. This led to the creation of the iconic Silverpilen, meaning ‘silver arrow’ in Swedish. Built in 1955, it was a pioneering model built intentionally for off-road riding and one of the most popular Husqvarna models.
The Silverpilen weighed a mere 75 kg, with a frame-mounted engine, telescopic fork, and hydraulic dampers. Back then, this kind of motorcycle design was revolutionary. That’s why Silverpilen became a global hit and earned Husqvarna its spot among the top motorcycle-makers in the world.
Setting a Benchmark
In 1977, one of the largest corporations in Sweden, Electrolux, bought Husqvarna Motorcycles. This is also the year when dirt-bikes gained global popularity.
Husqvarna continued its innovative way in motorcycle design by creating 500cc 4-stroke off-road motorcycles, which was unveiled in 1983. This new generation bike set new standards to what modern competition motorcycles should look like. It was lightweight and air-cooled, with a design that encouraged easy-handling and smoother ride. With this new product, Husqvarna forever changed the off-road motorcycle racing.
New Ownerships and the Split
Throughout the history of Husqvarna Motorcycles, there are plenty of ownership changes that happened. The second one took place in 1987 Electrolux sold the motorcycle division to Cagiva, an Italian motorbike-maker and part of MV Agusto Motor S.P.A. It was this time when Husqvarna products go their nickname “Huskies”.
After the purchase, the plan was to transfer the entire division down to Italy, but the core Husqvarna development team refused to relocate. The group chose to remain in Sweden, broke away from Cagiva, and launched its own company “Husaberg” in 1988.
Husqvarna Motorcycles experienced multiple changes of ownership for two decades until, in 2007, BMW bought the company.
The Reunion of Original Husqvarna Brand
2013 saw one of the most historic reunions in motorcycle history when Pierer Industries purchased Husqvarna Motorcycles. The two halves of the original Husqvarna team that became successful in the 60s and 70s reunited and returned the company to its glorious beginnings.
In 2014, Husqvarna motorcycles brought back the iconic Swedish blue, yellow, and white colour-scheme. This reunion brought the production of brand new ranges of Motocross motorcycles and Enduro products that would push Husqvarna back on top of off-road motorcycle racing. With 82 world titles and more than 50 years of racing innovation under its belt, the legendary bike continued to move forward.
Back to the Streets
After the reunion, Husqvarna Motorcycles received overwhelming reception globally by motorcycle fans. The evidence of which is the surge in unit sales and yearly turnover. It was this time when the brand made its outlook clear; Husqvarna Motorcycles is going back to the streets.
So, in 2016, the brand released the Husqvarna 701 SUPERMOTO model and paid homage to the single-cylinder four-stroke engine street bike design in the 1930s. This and the succeeding releases of the Vitpilen 401 and the Svartpilen 401 showed the world that Husqvarna Motorcycles was indeed returning to the street. The move proved to be a wise decision as the brand, yet again, experienced record-breaking sales and unprecedented company growth.
Continuous Innovation
Husqvarna’s dedication to the innovation of motorcycle designs persisted and as a result, the Vitpilen 701 model was revealed at the EICMA 2017 in Milan, Italy. The concept for Svartpilen 701 prototype was also released at the event, giving motorcycle enthusiasts around the world a glimpse of the Husqvarna Motorcycles street bikes will evolve in the succeeding years.
In 2017, Husqvarna made yet another innovative effort to bring high technology to their products by releasing a new range of Enduro motorcycles. These new off-road bikes feature a 2-stroke fuel injection system that is fuel-efficient and has sensor-controlled technology, making the Enduro bikes compliant with the Euro 4 emissions regulation.
Husqvarna Motorcycles Today
The current line-up of Husqvarna motorcycles includes the Vitpilen and Svartpilen ranges, the SUPERMOTO street bike range, Enduro off-road motorcycles, and Motocross racing motorcycles (2-stroke and 4-stroke). Husqvarna also started to go electric with the pioneering EE 5 motorbike.
With its drive for innovations in motorcycle technology, combined with the reputation of a great motorbike-maker, Husqvarna remains a prominent brand in motorcycle manufacturing around the world today.
Husqvarna Motorcycles with Aussie Bike Loans
Whether for street riding or off-road racing, Husqvarna motorcycles are some of the best bikes you can find around Australia. You can experience this legendary bike with a motorcycle financing from Aussie Bike Loans.
Call us today on 1300 889 669 or apply online to get a pre-approved bike loan for your Husqvarna motorcycle.