Swedish Surprise: Y2k Husabergs
SWEDISH SURPRISE: Y2K HUSABERGS
HOLY AIRSPACE, Thumperman! The much anticipated year-2000 Husabergs are here. Thanks to an influx of cash from KTM’s 1996 buyout of the company, the Swedes have produced their first all-new machines in years.
The joint use of components and concepts has resulted in exactly what Husaberg needed to keep itself at the forefront of lightweight four-stroke design. This is, after all, a category for which Husaberg’s engineers are largely responsible, first as free-thinking Husqvarna employees and later, in 1987, on their own.
This year, nearly every aspect of the bikes is changed. Engine-wise, an all-new cylinder head with improved intake ducting, steel valve seats, a new camshaft and a 12mm sparkplug tops the list. The rest of the powerplant appears externally similar to its predecessors, but a new clutch assembly with hydraulic actuation and a new shift drum with bearingequipped forks should hugely improve cog selection.
Despite the use of thinner-wall tubing, the steel frame is actually stiffer than before, due in part to reinforcement between the backbone and lower downtubes. For added stability, the subframe is welded in place. The air filter is accessible with-
out tools and rides on the frame backbone, which continues to double as the airbox.
In the suspension department, a USD (for “upside-down”)
43mm WP fork is fitted. The updated polished-
aluminum swingarm (with fixed chain guide) works through a WP PDS shock absorber.
The motocrossers also benefit from a titanium exhaust, switchable dual-curve ignition and big weight reduction.
All models
get new bodywork and a translucent 2.4-gallon gas tank for a riding position that is flatter and slimmer in the seat area. The rear fender and sidepanels are changed, too, forming a unique one-piece design. The absence of plastic under the seat where
the airbox usually would reside also makes a statement. Nothing is lighter than nothing.
Least expensive of the big-bore U.S. offerings is the FC MXer. It is sold in 501 and 600 forms, and retails for $7098 and $7198, respectively. Starting at $7068, the FE enduro model is available with electric or kick starting in 400, 501 and 600 forms. Rounding out the lineup is an electric-start desert racer, the FXE600, that costs $7698.
Jimmy Lewis
