Comparison test: Hard enduro 450 2009

• Video
• Online survey results: readers of the website www.moto-magazin.si ranked KTM first (30%), followed by Husqvarna with 24%, Yamaha third (15%), followed by Husaberg (13) ... .%), BMW (10%) and Kawasaki with XNUMX%.

Traditionally, at this time, Avto Magazin is preparing a dessert for all off-road motorsport fans, and this time it will not be an exception. More. We managed to collect as many as six pieces of motorcycles, equipped with headlights and rough tires, which can be ridden off-road (which is boring) and forest roads, tracks and rubble, but they are not afraid of trips to the motocross track.

On Rab, which pampered us on early winter days with warm spring sunshine and a fantastic backdrop of cliffs overgrown with sparse tufts of grass and a sandy beach flowing into the blue sea, we had ideal conditions for this comparative test.

At the very beginning, we have to point out two: everything, but in fact all the bikes we tested are very good. We say this not only for the best taste and kindness towards agents, but because we would be very happy with each of them and in our personal lives. However, another important point is that we evaluated them separately, in two groups.

On the first day, Matevж and Mikha were sweating. Gorenca, of course, contributed to the overall final score, since Matevж is a fairly fast recreational player, and we can say nothing about Spindle, except that he is crazy. But how else can you describe a rider who boasts a finish line in Erzberg and Romania? !!

The second part of the team included Marko Vovk as a complete beginner, Tomaž Pogacar as a serious recreationalist and myself, who (unfortunately) consider myself a typical representative of those who love enduro very much, I do not have time to ride a motorcycle more than twice a month in two hours.

Our cavalry included: brand new BMW G 450 X and Husaberg FE 450, last year's winner of the KTM EXC-R 450 (this time the same motorcycle), Husqvarna TE 450, that is, a newcomer to our market Kawasaki KL-KLX. 450 R and Yamaha WR 450 F Street.

At a time when every euro counts, let's talk about motorcycle prices first, so it’s easier for you to imagine which one is your favorite.

The Kawasaki is the cheapest, regular price is set at 7.681 euros, and for that money it's also the only one that has passenger pedals, though it's not on the top of the hard enduro equipment wishlist - nonetheless , interesting fact! The second is Husqvarna with 7.950 euros, and the magic limit of 8.220 thousand euros is the first one that KTM overcomes, from which 8.300 euros must be subtracted. The Yamaha and BMW cost €8.990 and the Husaberg is astronomically expensive as they require as much as €XNUMX.

Due to the logistics of the test, we were in the same place 80 percent of the time, on a kind of training ground, which is a mixture of motocross track and enduro test, and above all, it contains everything you need: jumps, bumps. , canals, single paths and even sandy soil and a meadow with a very slippery surface. We spent a small part on the winding and rather fast paths of stone carts in the deserted part of Rab.

6.place: Kawasaki KL-KLX 450 R

KL is actually an Italian company that, after a traditional partnership with Kawasaki, has made sure their KLX-R 450 enduro model is now also homologated. In addition to enduro, there is also a supermoto version. From the first contact, it becomes clear that this is a motorcycle borrowed from a motocross model, or rather the KX-F 450.

It is great for cross-country skiing and is very suitable for typical enduro travel. The engine is powerful, agile, agile and responsive to throttle commands. On it, in addition to problems with the starter and the battery, only two things worried: the suspension is too soft for a more serious and fast ride and the sloppy wide fuel tank. Therefore, he earned a lot of negative reviews for ergonomics and driving performance. Well, on the other hand, for a lot less money in this cluster, it offers a fairly solid construction and a lot of fun. But for more serious competitive use, more money would have to be invested in it.

Technical information

Test car price: 7.681 EUR

engine: single-cylinder, four-stroke, liquid-cooled, 449 cc? , 4 valves per cylinder, Keihin FCR 40 carburetor.

Maximum power: np

Maximum torque: np

Energy transfer: Transmission 6-speed, chain.

Frame: steel pipe.

brakes: front coil? 250mm rear coil? 240 mm.

Suspension: front adjustable inverted telescopic fork? 48mm, 305mm travel, adjustable rear shock, 315mm travel.

Tires: 90/100–21, 120/90–18.

Seat height from ground: 935 mm.

Fuel tank: 8 l.

Wheelbase: 1.480 mm.

Weight: 126 kg.

Representative: Moto Panigaz, Jezerska cesta 48, Kranj, 04/234 21 01, www.motoland.si.

We praise and reproach

+ price

+ undemanding to driving

+ flexible motor

- soft suspension

– fuel tank width

- problems with ignition

- large mass

– no racing components

5.place: BMW G 450 X

Interestingly, the most disagreements were about the BMW's exterior. Someone liked it for its unusual design, someone somehow did not digest it. In fact, this is a well-equipped enduro and we have to congratulate BMW for building a decent bike the first time around. He rides very nicely and easily at a smooth and calm pace on country roads, narrow paths and when climbing rocks. It is a little more difficult to drown in a corner as the front end is not the most accurate.

We were also worried about the too soft front suspension, which does little for the discerning driver when driving over bumps. When the fuel tank is full (located under the seat), a mass of fuel is felt as the rear can inadvertently "swing" left and right as the wheel hits a series of bumps. This problem (almost) disappears when the fuel tank is half empty.

However, we have to praise the best ergonomics, as the sitting and standing position can be an example for everyone else how the sides of the triangle should be aligned: pedals-handlebars-seat. In addition, the 912mm seat is also comfortable for people with slightly shorter legs. We were also impressed by the engine, which pulls very well and above all provides good traction on slippery surfaces and powerful brakes.

Technical information

Test car price: 8.299 EUR

engine: single-cylinder, four-stroke, liquid-cooled, 449 cc? , 4 valves per cylinder.

Maximum power: np

Maximum torque: np

Energy transfer: Transmission 5-speed, chain.

Frame: steel pipe.

brakes: front coil? 260mm rear coil? 220 mm.

Suspension: front adjustable inverted telescopic fork? 45mm, 300mm travel, rear adjustable single Ohlins shock, 320mm travel.

Tires: 90/90–12, 140/80–18.

Seat height from ground: 912 mm.

Fuel tank: 6, 8 l.

Wheelbase: 1.473 mm.

Weight: 111 kg (dry)

Representative: Avtoval, LLC, Grosuple, tel. No .: 01/78 11 300, www.avtoval.si.

We praise and reproach

+ motor

+ better ergonomics

– price

- hard seat

– access for refueling

4.place: Yamaha WR 450 F

The Yamaha doesn't hide its motocross roots either, and its suspension works much better than the Kawasaki. The WR 450 F is the most agile bike we've tested and will appeal to anyone who knows the basics of motocross and wants to try their hand at enduro.

The Yamaha literally jumps from turn to turn and it is very easy to change direction. With the help of Akrapovich's exhaust, the engine worked flawlessly and responded easily and quickly to the addition of gas. We were also impressed by the narrow slopes that allow for a good standing upright position while the driver feels a little cramped when seated.

We also recommend the Yamaha to those who are short, which unfortunately also means that the former gets stuck in a deep canal, rocks or logs. On the other hand, it is also true that Yamaha has one of the best drivetrain defenses, so even close collisions with hard ground will not cause damage.

The only thing that really bothered us was the disgustingly harsh clutch lever that made my wrist feel very tired. This will require a solution, not least all competitors except Kawasaki are offering hydraulics instead of steel braiding. For the rest, WR made sure that the European rivals were shaking a little for their places in the final table.

Technical information

Test car price: 8.300 EUR

engine: single-cylinder, four-stroke, liquid-cooled, 449 cc? , 5 valves per cylinder, Keihin FCR-MX 39 carburetor.

Maximum power: np

Maximum torque: np

Energy transfer: Transmission 5-speed, chain.

Frame: aluminum.

brakes: front coil? 250mm rear coil? 245 mm.

Suspension: front adjustable inverted fork, 300mm travel, rear adjustable damper, 305mm travel.

Tires: 90/90–21, 130/90–18.

Seat height from ground: 990 mm.

Fuel tank: 8 l.

Wheelbase: 1.485 mm.

Weight: 112, 5 kg.

Representative: Delta Team, Cesta krških žrtev 135a, Krško, 07/492 14 44, www.delta-team.com.

We praise and reproach

+ very simple handling

+ versatility

+ live engine

+ low weight

+ suspension

- strongly pull the clutch lever

– low seat height and engine distance from the ground

– price

3rd place: Husqvarna TE 450 ie

After last year's overhaul of the flagship model TE 450 for 2009, the Italians (under the auspices of BMW) have prepared only minor fixes. Husqvarna has one of the best ergonomics for sitting and standing driving. Tall and short drivers will feel good at the wheel. The problem, however, arises when you need to reach the ground with your foot. The seat height of 963 millimeters from the ground may be a little high for those with short legs.

The red and white dedicated enduro bike is the biggest bike in terms of feel and on paper, which he uses on faster sections. It's the exact opposite of the Husaberg, for example, extremely stable and confidence-inspiring in dug-out tracks or bumps in fourth and fifth gear, but on the other hand requires a lot of effort to aggressively cut into a curved channel.

Interestingly, although it works hardest in the hands, it does not get fatigued while running and, when combined with a slightly sleepy device, is a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone who knows how to harness the torque of a reliable device while driving. Compared to a Husaberg or Yamaha, this one seems a little sleepy at first glance, but where it needs to be accelerated and the ground doesn't provide the best grip on the rear wheel, it shines straight.

The good news is also the improved brakes, which we now have nothing to complain about. The feel of the clutch lever is also very good, which helps the ride smoothly.

Technical information

Test car price: 7.950 EUR

engine: single-cylinder, four-stroke, 449 cm? , liquid cooling, Mikuni electronic fuel injection? 42 mm.

Maximum power: np

Maximum torque: np

Energy transfer: Transmission 6-speed, chain.

Frame: steel pipe.

brakes: front coil? 260mm rear coil? 240 mm.

Suspension: front adjustable inverted fork Marzocchi? 50mm, 300mm travel, Sachs adjustable rear shock, 296mm travel.

Tires: 90/90–21, 140/80–18.

Seat height from ground: 963 mm.

Fuel tank: 7, 2 l.

Wheelbase: 1.495 mm.

Weight: 112 kg (without fuel).

Representative: www.zupin.de

We praise and reproach

+ price

+ most versatile suspension

+ sitting and standing position

+ excellent stability at high speeds

+ climbing skills, slippery grip

+ engine protection

- seat height

– motor inertia

– works hard when switching between closed corners

2nd city: Husaberg FE 450

This, in addition to BMW, is probably the most anticipated new addition to the 2008/2009 season, as everything is literally turned upside down at KTM, which employs a handful of Swedish engineers. The block is inverted, which transfers the rotating masses in the engine closer to the center. This is reflected in the fantastically simple handling. Sometimes when riding, it is as light as a 125cc motorcycle. Cm.

It features curves into which it cuts through oil like a hot knife, regardless of the radius of the curve or channel. He likes to jump from one turn to another, only planes give him headaches. Apparently, due to the extraordinary handling on the windings, they sacrificed calmness and stability on straight and fast sections. Big riders also complained about the tightness and low handlebars, and most of the criticism was due to its width at the leg area, as the bike is unusually wide and harder to compress in the boots and knees.

The unit spins very well and has a good power/torque curve. The brakes are completely KTM-level, which sets the standard here, and the feature is a folding brake lever that won't break when dropped. Husaberg equipment is also renowned for its exceptional quality.

Technical information

Test car price: 8.990 EUR

engine: single-cylinder, four-stroke, 449 cm? , electronic fuel injection.

Maximum power: np

Maximum torque: np

Energy transfer: Transmission 6-speed, chain.

Frame: chromium-molybdenum, double cage.

brakes: front coil? 260mm rear coil? 220 mm.

Suspension: front adjustable inverted telescopic fork? 48mm, 300mm travel, rear adjustable single shock, 335mm travel.

Tires: front 90 / 90-21, back 140 / 80-18.

Seat height from ground: 985 mm.

Fuel tank: 8, 5 l.

Wheelbase: 1.475 mm.

Weight: 114 kg (without fuel).

Sales: Axle, doo, Ljubljanska cesta 5, Koper, 05/6632377, www.axle.si.

We praise and reproach

+ lightness, controllability

+ economical engine

+ high air filter

+ suspension

+ equipment

– price

- width between legs

- feeling a bit tight when sitting

1st city: KTM EXC R 450

Last year, KTM undoubtedly won our comparison test, which was a great trip for Oranges in the 2009 season, as the EXC-R 450, like the rest of the line, received only minor improvements. The web of circumstances even meant that we only had the 2008 model at our disposal, which, however, proved itself again.

The device is just great, perfect for enduro. Compared to BMW, Husaberg and Husqvarna, this is the only European car that does not have direct fuel injection, which is also felt on the throttle, which responds well to commands from the right wrist.

However, its other strong point is its handling. It is extremely easy to go from corner to corner and is stable and reliable at high speeds. Of the three that have a PDS shock in the rear (KTM, BMW, Husaberg), the suspension works best on the KTM. A directly mounted shock absorber has its advantages and disadvantages, but with what it offers today, you would live without problems, and after some getting used to and adapting, it is no longer an obstacle to fast and smooth driving.

The only area where the KTM is a bit lame is ergonomics. It is interesting to note that they are very similar or even identical to the Husaberg in terms of wheelbase, seat height from the ground and handlebar height from the ground. A slightly raised steering wheel can already improve the experience. Luckily, the KTM isn't as wide between the legs as its own Husaberg competitor.

We also have to commend the high level of equipment quality and the reliability and durability of individual parts, from levers, handlebars to plastics, which are the most vulnerable parts of the motorcycle. In short, KTM is the most versatile enduro bike right now.

Technical information

Test car price: 8.220 EUR

engine: single-cylinder, four-stroke, liquid-cooled, 449 cc? , 4 valves per cylinder, Keihin FCR-MX 39 carburetor.

Maximum power: np

Maximum torque: np

Energy transfer: Transmission 6-speed, chain.

Frame: steel pipe.

brakes: front coil? 260mm rear coil? 220 mm.

Suspension: front adjustable inverted telescopic fork WP? 48mm, 300mm travel, WP adjustable rear damper, 335mm travel.

Tires: 90/90–21, 140/80–18.

Seat height from ground: 985 mm.

Fuel tank: 9 l.

Wheelbase: 1.475 mm.

Weight: 113 kg (without fuel).

Representative: KTM Slovenia, www.hmc-habat.si, www.motorjet.si, www.axle.si.

We praise and reproach

+ the most versatile

+ manageability

+ best-in-class block

+ quality components

+ powerful brakes

+ workmanship and durability

+ suspension

– wide between the knees and in the fuel tank area

– does not have underbody protection as standard

Face to face. ...

Matevj Hribar: Unfortunately, timing let me down in this test, and I only tested the bikes on the motocross track for a short time, which is enough for a first impression, but such terrain cannot be equated with typical enduro tracks, which mostly use proven cars. ...

BMW does not appeal to me with the design compared to others, it works "cumbersome" with the plastic of the shovel. Even while riding, I didn’t have a better feeling in corners, in closed corners the bike resists fast maneuvers. I was positively surprised by the device, which works very well and responds perfectly, as if it had a larger volume.

The Husaberg FE already looks very compact, every element is in harmony with everything, and it is a pleasure to operate it. The suspension is good, the handling is light, the unit is maneuverable. I can write the same for an orange cousin called EXC, only the Austrian is even more explosive in the lower rev range, which can tire a less trained driver on the field.

Ergonomics of Husqvarna completely suits me, the bike handles well, only noticeably lacks power in the lower operating range. This is even more noticeable on loose, fine sand or when jumping - if the driver selects the wrong gear in the transmission, there is no real reaction when adding gas.

Despite its motocross foundation, the Kawasaki has proven to be a very rewarding horse, thanks largely to its abundance of torque, passenger-certified pedals, and bargain price. They are worried about the unsightly enlarged fuel tank, the slightly long first gear and the steering wheel a few centimeters lower - the latter, of course, is easily eliminated.

I was impressed with the Yamaha because the softly tuned suspension followed the terrain very well and the whole bike was pleasantly nimble – the exact opposite of the first Veerk enduro. The owners complain that due to the compactness of the parts (unit, frame) it is not as ready for repair in the home workshop.

If you were in front of a purchase, a European trio without the Bavarian would probably be on the short list, but for a good price you could pick either one - once you get used to the bike, you can enjoy it with any of them.

Miha Špindler: Husqvarna and BMW disappointed me the most. In the first, because of too weak suspension and insufficient power at low revs, and in the second, because of the difficult control and the fact that it is difficult to hold the boot because of the uncomfortable legs. The best combination would be a Husqvarna with a BMW engine.

Kawasaki pulls well from the bottom and there is no point in pushing it at all, it is quite soft, but springy well, the steering wheel should be raised. The combination of Yamaha's rigid frame and enduro-tuned suspension works well, only the pedals glide quickly on the ground when cornering.

Husaberg and KTM are the most versatile enduro bikes with good engines and very light riding characteristics. The Husaberg is a bit more expensive, but also better equipped and technically brand new.

Peter Kavcic, Matevz Gribar, photo: Boris Pushchenik, Zeljko Pushchenik

• Basic data

  Test model cost: € 8.220 XNUMX €

• Technical information

  engine: single-cylinder, four-stroke, liquid-cooled, 449 cm³, 4 valves per cylinder, Keihin FCR-MX 39 carburetor.

  Torque: np

  Energy transfer: Transmission 6-speed, chain.

  Frame: steel pipe.

  brakes: front disc Ø 260 mm, rear disc Ø 220 mm.

  Suspension: front adjustable inverted telescopic fork Ø 48 mm, travel 305 mm, rear adjustable shock absorber, travel 315 mm. / front adjustable inverted telescopic fork Ø 45 mm, travel 300 mm, rear adjustable single Ohlins damper, travel 320 mm. / front adjustable inverted fork, 300mm travel, rear adjustable damper, 305mm travel. / 50mm Ø 300mm Marzocchi inverted adjustable front fork, 296mm travel, Sachs adjustable rear damper, 48mm travel. / front adjustable inverted telescopic fork Ø 300 mm, 335 mm travel, rear adjustable single damper, 48 mm travel. / front adjustable inverted telescopic fork WP Ø 300 mm, travel 335 mm, rear adjustable shock absorber WP, travel XNUMX mm.

  Fuel tank: 9 l.

  Wheelbase: 1.475 mm.

  Weight: 113,9 kg (without fuel).

We praise and reproach

workmanship and durability

powerful brakes

quality components

best-in-class engine

controllability

the most versatile

Equipment

high air filter

efficient engine

ease, manageability

motor protection

sitting and standing

excellent stability at high speeds

climbing skills, slippery grip

the most versatile suspension

podcast

light weight

live engine

versatility

very simple handling

best ergonomics

engine

flexible motor

undemanding to driving

price

does not have underbody protection as standard

wide between the knees and around the fuel tank

feeling of tightness when sitting

width between legs

works hard when switching between closed bends

engine inertia

seat height

low seat height and engine distance from the ground

firm pressure on the clutch lever

refueling access

hard seat

price

lack of racing components

large mass

ignition problems

fuel tank width

soft suspension