Cycle News Staff | June 19, 2020
Husqvarna unveiled its line of 2021 FE and TE off-road and dual-sport models. Most notable changes include a new piston for the TE150i, updated shift lockers for the FE501, and new graphics for all!
Below, you can read about the features and benefits of all seven models. Text is straight from Husqvarna.
2021 Husqvarna FE350S dual sport
FEATURES AND BENEFITS – 2-STROKES AND 4-STROKES
Frame
The chromium-molybdenum steel frame is expertly crafted using hydro-formed tubes which are laser-cut and robot-welded to ensure the highest level of precision and quality. The specifically crafted geometry utilizes advanced longitudinal and torsional flex characteristics, for unparalleled rider feedback, energy absorption and exceptional straight-line stability.
The forged aluminum cylinder head mountings on all models deliver optimal handling characteristics and comfort. The frame is finished off in a premium blue powder coating and standard frame protectors guaranteeing superior protection and durability.
- Advanced longitudinal and torsional flex characteristics → unparalleled rider feedback, energy absorption and exceptional straight-line stability
- Forged aluminum cylinder head mountings on all models
- Durable powder-coated finish with standard frame protectors
Composite carbon fiber subframe
Unique to Husqvarna Motorcycles, the carbon composite subframe showcases advanced production technologies and innovation. Using 70% polyamide and 30% carbon fiber, the 2-piece subframe has a total weight of just over 2.2 lbs (1 kg.) With the help of computational dynamics, specific rigidity was engineered into the light and robust subframe, delivering outstanding handling and rider comfort.
- 2-piece subframe → weight just over 2.2 lbs (1 kg)
- Carbon fibre composite construction → lightweight and robust
- Specific rigidity characteristics → exceptional handling and comfort
Swingarm
The hollow cast-aluminum swingarm offers optimal stiffness and reliability at the lightest possible weight. Specific machining allows for the chain adjustment slots to be seen from above, allowing for easy maintenance.
- Optimal stiffness and reliability in a lightweight construction
WP XPLOR fork
The WP XPLOR front forks consist of a 48 mm spring-type layout with split rebound and damping functions meaning compression damping is solely maintained by the left leg and rebound damping solely by the right leg. The result is simple adjustment through easy access clickers (30 clicks) located on the top of each fork leg. Additionally, the standard preload adjusters allow for a 3-way preload adjustment without the use of tools.
Offering unsurpassed performance and comfort, the XPLOR fork features an advanced mid-valve piston delivering a consistent damping function while the setting allows the fork to operate higher in the stroke delivering exceptional rider feedback and bottoming resistance.
- WP XPLOR front fork → 4 mm spring type with split damping function
- Easy access preload adjusters
- Advanced mid-valve piston and setting → superior performance, feel and comfort
2021 Husqvarna FE501S dual sport
CNC machined triple clamps
The 22mm offset black-anodized CNC machined triple clamps offer premium quality as standard on all Husqvarna Motorcycles off-road and dual-sport models. The triple clamps are expertly crafted using superior techniques and materials to provide high levels of quality and reliability. A 2-way handlebar adjustment is standard and allows for customizable ergonomics.
- CNC aluminum → finest quality and reliability
- Adjustable handlebar position → adjustable ergonomics
WP XACT rear shock
The WP XACT shock provides advanced damping characteristics while keeping a compact and lightweight design. With a pressure balance inside the shock, damping is consistent resulting in superior rider comfort and handling.
Using the same linkage progression found in the Husqvarna Motocross range, the rear end sits low for optimal control and comfort in extreme off-road and dual-sport conditions. The component is fully adjustable and delivers unrivaled traction, feeling and energy absorption. The rear-wheel travel is 300 mm.
- Advanced linkage progression → exceptional control and comfort
- Pressure balance → consistent damping
- 300 mm wheel travel
2021 Husqvarna FE501
MAGURA hydraulic clutch
The reliable, high-quality, German-made clutch system guarantees even wear, near maintenance-free operation and perfect action in all conditions. Lever free play is constantly compensated so that the pressure point and function of the clutch remain identical in cold or hot conditions, as well as over time.
- MAGURA hydraulic clutch → perfect action in all conditions
MAGURA Brakes
The MAGURA braking system offers the highest level of braking performance while specifically tailored for off-road and dual-sport riding to deliver a sensitive action and feel. The 260 mm front and 220 mm rear waved brake discs by GSK keep weight to a minimum and offer complete braking confidence.
- MAGURA brake calipers and high-performance GSK discs → superior stopping power with unsurpassed sensitivity and action
ProTaper handlebars
ProTaper handlebars are second to none for function and style. Manufactured to exacting standards, the ProTaper handlebars feature class-leading fatigue resistance while adding minimal weight. ProTaper logos are chemically applied and are scratch and peel resistant.
- ProTaper handlebars → class-leading function and style
2021 Husqvarna FE350
Grips and throttle assembly
The ODI lock-on grip on the left side requires no gluing, while on the right, the vulcanized grip features an innovative integrated throttle mechanism. The assembly has easy free-play adjustment and, by changing a cam, throttle progression can be altered.
- Throttle assembly and ODI grips → easily alter throttle progression; easy grip mounting without glue
Map switch, traction control
Designed for easy operation, the standard map switch on off-road FE models selects between 2 EFI maps and activates the traction control. Traction control features an updated setting offering improved traction and control on slick terrain.
Traction control is selected to an on or off position from the switch and functions by analyzing throttle input from the rider and the rate at which RPM increases in the engine. If the RPM increases too quickly, the EMS registers a loss of grip and reduces the amount of power to the rear wheel ensuring maximum traction.
Additionally, all 2-strokes are also fitted with a standard map switch allowing selection between 2 ignition curves based on conditions or rider preference.
- Standard handlebar map switch (not on dual-sport) → alter engine characteristics according to conditions and rider preference
- Traction control → optimal traction in all conditions
2021 Husqvarna TE300i
Engine Management System (EMS)
Apart from controlling EFI parameters on the 4-strokes, the Keihin EMS features selectable engine maps on the off-road FE models via the switch on the handlebar, as well as traction control. Combined with the gear sensor, power delivery is tailored for each gear.
- Keihin EMS → smaller, lighter and faster at processing engine data for more efficient engine management
- Gear sensor → specific engine maps for each gear
On the 2-strokes, the EMS features an electronic control unit (ECU) which is responsible for a number of functions. The unit determines the ignition timing, the amount of fuel and oil injected and additionally receives information from the throttle position sensor, ambient air and intake pressure sensors as well as crankcase pressure and water temperature sensors to adapt values and make corrections for automatic temperature and altitude compensation eliminating the need to change carburetor jetting as in the past.
- 2-stroke EMS → modern engine management eliminating the need for jetting changes
Throttle body
The 4-stroke range features a 42mm Keihin throttle body. The injector is positioned to ensure the most efficient flow into the combustion chamber. To ensure optimal throttle response the throttle cable is mounted directly without a throttle linkage, to provide more immediate throttle response and feeling.
- Throttle body → 42mm, injector positioned for optimal flow, more immediate throttle response thanks to direct cable mounting
The 2-strokes use a 39 mm throttle body, which regulates the amount of air entering the engine via a butterfly valve operated by dual throttle cables connected to the handlebar throttle assembly. Unlike 4-stroke throttle bodies, fuel is not introduced at this point, but rather 2-stroke oil is mixed with the air entering the engine to lubricate the crankshaft, cylinder and piston. Additionally, a throttle position sensor (TPS) relays airflow data to the ECU, which in turn calculates the amount of oil and fuel delivered to the engine while a bypass screw regulates the idling speed and a cold start device opens a bypass providing more air for cold starts.
- 39 mm throttle body → regulates airflow, TPS relays airflow data
2021 Husqvarna TE250i
Exhaust system
Tailored specifically for each model using an innovative 3D design process, the 2-stroke header pipes feature advanced geometry and performance. The TE 250i/300i header pipe offers more ground clearance making it less susceptible to damage while a corrugated surface makes the header pipe more durable to damage from rocks and other hazards found on the trail. The 2-stroke mufflers also feature an aluminum mounting bracket and advanced internal construction for excellent noise damping and weight saving.
The 4-stroke exhaust system is expertly designed to deliver class-leading performance at the lowest possible weight. The header pipe is designed and manufactured in two pieces, to be as compact as possible. The joining position allows it to be removed without having to take out the rear shock. Further innovation allows for a short, compact silencer without increasing noise levels. The component is crafted from lightweight aluminum and is stylishly finished off in a black coating that highlights its premium quality.
- Corrugated surface on TE 250i/300i → more durable against damage
- Header joining position on 4-stroke → removable without detaching rear shock
Electric start and wiring harness
All TE and FE models come standard with an electric starter. The system uses a compact and light-weight Li-Ion battery, which is 2.2 lbs (1 kg) lighter than a conventional battery. With several years of experience of electric starters on Husqvarna Motorcycles’ off-road and dual-sport models, the proven reliability is second to none, ensuring a quick and seamless start in all conditions.
Additionally, the wiring harness concentrates all needed electrical components into a common area below the seat for easy accessibility.
Integrated cooling system and radiators
The radiators are expertly crafted using high-strength aluminum with CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) to channel air through the radiators more efficiently. The cooling system is intelligently integrated into the frame, eliminating the need for additional hoses. The large center tube running through the frame reduces pressure at this point, allowing for a consistent coolant flow.
Additionally, the radiators are mounted close to the center of gravity for improved handling agility.
All 4-stroke models are fitted with radiator fans as standard. For the 2-stroke models, radiator fans are optional and available in the Accessories catalog.
- Integrated cooling → maximum efficiency in minimum space
- Large central tube → consistent coolant flow
Fuel tank
The polythene fuel tanks incorporate a quick release filler cap and an integrated fuel pump. The fuel pump features internal line routing directly from the pump to the flange for optimal fuel flow. Additionally, the external fuel line is specifically positioned to make it less exposed and susceptible to damage. A fuel level sensor is incorporated on all models.
2021 Husqvarna TE150i
Airbox and tool-less air filter access
The airbox is designed with precisely positioned inlet ducts aimed at preventing air deformation to ensure maximum airflow and maximum filter protection. The air filter is easily accessed, without tools, by removing the left side panel. Easy maintenance is guaranteed by the Twin Air filter and filter cage design, which features a simple fail proof mounting system for safe and accurate filter installation.
- Airbox → maximum airflow and filter protection
- Filter mounting system → safe and accurate protection against dirt
- Tool-less filter access → easy and fast maintenance
Wheels
Off-road models are equipped with black high-strength alloy rims by D.I.D with laser engraved logos that are coupled to CNC machined hubs using lightweight spokes and silver anodized aluminum nipples. The nipples incorporate an advanced design reducing the frequency of spoke checks and maintenance. Dual-sport models feature GIANT rims paired with CNC machined hubs and aluminum nipples.
- Lightweight but strong and reliable construction → minimum unsprung weight
Tires
The off-road range features Dunlop AT81 tires, offering advanced grip in a wide variety of different terrain. The dual-sport models feature Continental TKC80 tires, providing excellent grip both on and off-road.
Bodywork
The off-road and dual-sport range features bodywork which clearly showcases Husqvarna Motorcycles’ progressive approach to offroad motorcycles while striking dark blue and electric yellow graphics stylishly adorn the Swedish inspired design. The ergonomics are specifically tailored to deliver great comfort and control. As a result of extensive testing, the slim contact points make shifting between riding positions easier and allow the rider to flow with movement.
The flat seat profile, together with the seat cover texture, delivers superior comfort and control in all conditions.
- Progressive bodywork → distinctive looks, modern design and graphics
- Ergonomics → confidence-inspiring riding position in all riding situations
- Seat → flat seat profile for exceptional comfort and control in all conditions
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