Driving: Husqvarna TE and FE enduro 2020 // Little things and big changes
The main reason for this feeling lies in the completely new frame and suspension on all seven enduro models. From the two-stroke engines, which are of course equipped with the new oil injection technology TE 150i, TE 250i, TE 300i, to the four-stroke engines FE 250, FE 350, FE 450 and FE 501, which provide a high level of dynamic performance.
All 2020 models feature improved ergonomics and improved design, as well as the superbly adjustable WP XPLOR 48mm suspension with 30 clicks for front adjustment and WP XACT with 300mm reversal. With a new frame, additional frame, rear suspension weights, updated fork and shock settings, and premium components, this allows drivers of all types to progress easily while driving. I tested this myself in Slovakia, where we tested almost all enduro elements (only sand was still missing).
The list of innovations with an emphasis on innovation continues with the aforementioned all-new frame, the subframe that carries the seat and rear wing, suspension, side plastics and engines. All frames have increased longitudinal and torsional stiffness, which, with the addition of a new, lighter carbon fiber composite frame, provides exceptional handling, stability and feedback to riders of all skill levels.
Designed for youngsters and beginners, the all-new TE 150i represents the best compromise between light weight and a powerful yet not overly powerful engine.which can also run at lower rpms. In power transfer, the typical power increase shock is still present, as in the 125cc engines, but this transition is much softer and not as aggressive and demanding to drive as we are used to so far. All the components are the same as the models with the more powerful engine, so this is the best enduro bike that can be very fast.
However, it unleashes its potential at full throttle and in the hands of an experienced driver who can also be venomously fast on this grinder. Together with the TE 250i and TE 300i, they share the same proven two-stroke fuel injection technology. With a standard electric motor starter, it also offers comfort that is invaluable to beginners.
The entire 4-stroke series offers extensive engine upgrades for improved performance and handling.because the FE 450 and FE 501 have a new cylinder head. The list of improvements is also long for the FE 250 and FE 350, which impressed me the most among four-stroke engines. In all fairness, the FE 250, which is extremely light in hand and not far behind in engine power, is the FE 350, which is the most versatile enduro bike in Husqvarna this model year.
Since the seat height is 10 mm lower, this also means improved ergonomics. Riding a motorcycle is easier, more natural and provides a more reliable ride. The suspension works great! Mounting the rear shock absorber using a lever system allows you to effectively overcome both small bumps and large obstacles. However, the WP Xplor front forks are the best you can get on the market at the moment and are, in fact, a great value for accessories.
Not once during the test did he turn the front wheel or turn the steering wheel. Even in off-road tests, the suspension worked excellently with the frame, and all Husqvarnas held the line perfectly and securely without lifting the front or rear on a slope. Even as an amateur enduro driver, they allowed me to drive fast and above all safely, thus raising my driving level to a higher level.... In fact, driving the 2020 Husqvarn felt completely safe and learned a new dimension of driving as I was able to expand my options a little further than so far. I only experienced limitations after a full day of driving through the woods, through narrow and steep canals, on ups and downs, where I more than clearly succumbed to concentration while driving due to fatigue and my body no longer obeyed my head, so quickly. There, it turned out that the FE 450 is still a demanding machine that doesn't make as many mistakes as, say, the FE 250, which has proven to be ideal for driving fast through difficult terrain, even when you're not the freshest. Behind the wheel. Fewer rotating masses and less inertia simplify handling and reduce effort.
In more extreme conditions, the TE 300, the push-pull queen of extreme enduro tests, still performed at its best., was developed by Graham Jarvis, multiple winner of the Erzberg and Romania tournaments. Don't be fooled, you still need supernatural powers to ride this two-stroke beast like Jarvis. But I still believe this bike is built to tackle off-road terrain that cannot be reached even on foot. A powerful, not crazy engine, great torque and a well-calculated drivetrain, together with the suspension and frame, help him climb higher and even higher, until you wonder if what you are doing with the engine is reasonable. Whether climbing a stream bed, stream, ground filled with rolling rocks, roots or a motocross track, it always gives you good rear wheel contact with the ground.
This time a 250 cc two-stroke engine. See left me less excited than usual (although this is a great bike, no doubt about it) and I think that's why because they improved the 300cc version so much. However, I don't recommend the most powerful four-stroke enduro machine, the FE 501, unless you're trained. Because of its power and motor inertia, it requires unmistakable precision when driving on the border. Together with a tired driver, they are incompatible, and he takes some of the remaining power. So I go back to the FE 350, which for me is the best Husqvarna for enduro at the moment. She's got enough strength, but she's not too tough and she's very, very good at any type of terrain.
Base model price: from 9.519 to 10.599 to 10.863 to 11.699 euros for models of the TE family and from XNUMX XNUMX to XNUMX XNUMX for FE models.
