Husky Slides Ahead

HUSKY SLIDES AHEAD

With fresh cash infused after its purchase by BMW, Husqvarna has put development into overdrive. Recent racing success netted both the S1 (450) and S2 (Open) titles in the 2007 Supermoto World Championship. Taking advantage of lessons learned on-track, the ’08 street-legal SMR models are all-new. Focusing on the $7998 SM510R (identical to the 450 except for displacement), the liquid-cooled engine gets a new closed-loop fuel-injection system with a 42mm Mizuno throttle body, and works with a catalytic converter to keep emissions below Euro 3

standards. Updates to the chassis include a new semi-perimeter frame with redone geometry, a shorter aluminum swingarm, a new Sachs shock and a revalved 50mm Marzocchi fork riding in a triple-clamp with revised offset. Redesigned bodywork and a smaller fuel tank have reduced overall size. Get out and get sideways! Mark Cernicky