Salon talk 2010: Husaberg
In Salon talk we take the pulse of Belgian off-road with an importer. Husaberg is imported into Belgium by KTM Sport Motorcycle Belgium. We once again approached Marketing Manager Bart Vermeulen to discuss Husaberg in Belgium.
Which was your best-selling off-road motorcycle in 2009?
Bart Vermeulen: “2009 was a bit of a transition year in which we only had two enduro models in the range. The FE 450 was logically the best-selling Husaberg.”
What is your most important off-road novelty for 2010?
Bart Vermeulen: “We actually have three novelties for this year. The FE 390 will be added to the enduros, with which we aim at a slightly wider audience. People who don't necessarily compete. But the handling of the FE 390 is such that you can also use it for Indoor Enduro or Extreme Enduro.”
“With the FS 570 Supermoto we hope to see Husaberg more on the streets. The FX 450 is a motorcycle that was developed for cross-country but can also be used as a dirt bike.”
What do you expect from the off-road market in 2010?
Bart Vermeulen: “We will further market Husaberg in Belgium. As a brand, Husaberg is a pioneer. And distinguishes itself with innovations such as the forward-tilted engine block. “
How do you see the off-road market evolving over the next decade?
Bart Vermeulen: “Husaberg will always retain its own identity. It may already be part of KTM, but it still has its own style. Both in terms of concept as motorcycle and in terms of corporate identity, there will always be a distinction between Husaberg and KTM. Nevertheless, there is close collaboration with KTM in terms of research and development.
How important are sporting successes for sales in this segment?
Bart Vermeulen: “Husaberg is rooted in competition. Our world titles in motocross (with Joël Smets) and enduro have given Husaberg a certain notoriety. So the competition is indeed important. We are currently only active internationally in enduro. That team is led from Sweden.
Are you, as an importer, involved in off-road sports in Belgium?
Bart Vermeulen: “Last year, as an importer, we chose to immediately use the FE 450 in competitions. Wim Vanderheyden rode the BK Enduro and also a few rounds of the BK Motocross. This season Wim will start again in the E2 class of the BK Enduro.”
Photo credits: Husaberg
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