Husaberg FE
They already proved that Husaberg, or should we say KTM, is not shy of a stunt with the launch of the Husaberg FE450. This enduro motorcycle was equipped with an unconventional engine block. The single cylinder was hung under the frame at an angle of 70°. Nice, but why?
Well, this method of mounting ensures that the crankshaft is positioned higher and further back, which in other words brings it closer to the center of gravity of the engine and thus improves the steering behavior as the internally rotating components have a smaller influence and you therefore fewer forces have to overcome to make your motor change direction. And you know what? He steers like the best. Almost incomparable to other off-road motorcycles.
With the FE390, Husaberg is once again different from the others by proposing a non-obvious engine capacity. Now it seems that we are increasingly heading towards a trend where, in addition to their mandatory numbers (250cc and 450cc), manufacturers are launching a 'special' to give the non-competition rider something that is tailor-made for him. For example, Husqvarna has its TE310, KTM does it with its EXC400. It is striking that it is mainly the European manufacturers who wish to distinguish themselves in this way. At a commercial level, just look at Cairoli, who even chose to equip his Yamaha with a smaller engine capacity to ride in the MX1 class.
We thought it was urgent time to put the FE390 through its paces and we did so during the 6h of Pont De Vaux, the latest motorcycle variant of the famous 12h of PDV that is fought annually between the quads. In terms of looks, this 390 is two drops of water its bigger brother. Husaberg has already had a taste of design in the past and that is only going to get better at KTM. The sleek design also means that the engine is kept very narrow. In combination with the short and light construction, you increasingly get the feeling of working with a quarter liter. Except for the power, of course. This is more in line with that of a 450cc enduro. Here too, Husaberg proves to be up to date with the trends. In addition to electronic fuel injection, you can easily adjust the mapping yourself. This self-operated button is an option.
The suspension comes as expected from WP. There is also nothing to criticize about this. These spring elements are fully adjustable at the front and rear. The short construction and position of the block certainly has the advantage of lighter and faster steering behavior, but it therefore has to compromise slightly in terms of straight-line stability, although this is more present in the 450 and 570 version than in the smaller 390. This is fully attributable to the linear engine character that brings the FE390 to its top speed in a more civilized manner, while the 450 and certainly the 570 pull the bricks out of the ground due to their enormous torque.
[Nggallery id = 5]
Nice extras include things like an 'unbreakable' clutch lever that folds forward in the event of a crash. You normally have to buy these kinds of things after-market. Where the fuel reservoir is normally located, the air filter has been mounted, which guarantees better air flow and causes the gasoline to change position. The petrol is stored slightly lower, even under the seat, which in turn benefits the balance of the motorcycle. In terms of braking, it is Brembo that counts and that guarantees well-adjustable braking power in all circumstances.
At KTM they told us that KTM enthusiasts should not have to fear that within a few years all orange machines will also receive this block. This engine design remains reserved for the former Swede. As far as we are concerned, the Husaberg FE390 is a born winner even more than its heavier brothers, for both hobby and competition riders. We are already waiting impatiently for a motocross version.
Your reactions