The 2019 Sherco Enduro motorcycles
Sherco presents not one but two enduro ranges for 2019! Just like Beta, the French Sherco is a challenger that has been gaining market share, little by little, for years. We were now used to the French presenting their basic models for the following model year at the beginning of every summer. The Factory and/or Six Days range followed in the autumn. This year, Sherco also presented the Factory range at the same time as its Racing range (basic models).
Like just about every other European manufacturer of enduro motorcycles, Sherco offers both two- and four-stroke engines. The two-stroke line-up includes a 125 cc and a 250 cc, as well as a 300 cc version. The four-stroke range starts with the 250 cc and goes up to a 450 cc machine. In between there is also a more recreational 300 cc version. All these machines are available in two versions: a 'Racing' basic model and a 'Factory' premium version.
Racing range
Sherco adjusted the frame of its enduros, so it now weighs 400 grams. fewer. The upper triple clamp was exchanged for a lighter one (-90 degrees). In addition, the power distributor was also renewed. According to Sherco, the new units are more powerful and should also cool better. Furthermore, the Shercos received new lighter Michelin tires.
The two-stroke models received a wider radiator. The width of the cooling element is now 130 mm instead of 120 mm. Furthermore, the plumbing of the two-strokes was renewed with a new cooling hose and a new intake manifold. The Racing models now get the fully adjustable 48mm WP Xplor front fork, which we previously found on Sherco's Factory models. The shock absorber is also a WP copy. Excell is responsible for the black rims of the Racings.
Factory range
The big novelty for the 2019 model year is the switch from WP to KYB (formerly known as Kayaba). The closed cartridge front fork and shock absorber are specially adjusted per model by the Belgian Technical Touch - which distributes KYB in Europe.
In addition to the Factory graphics, Sherco's premium models are also distinguished by the blue Excell rims, the black plastic crankcase protector from AXP, the blue saddle from Selle Dalla Valle and the handles from Domino. Sherco installs a full brake disc at the rear as standard on the Factory models, and they get a copy from Galfer at the front. The French company Neken is responsible for the Factory's steering wheel. Sherco saved a lot of weight on the Factory models by opting for a Li-Ion battery from Shido. A difference of 1.3 kg with the previous battery.
In contrast to the Racing models, Sherco opts for competition-oriented exhaust systems on the Factory machines. On the two-strokes we find FMF exhaust lines, while Akrapovic takes care of the exhausts of the four-strokes.
Cross Country
Based on the Factory models, Sherco also offers a Cross Country range. In addition to the usual two-stroke (125 cc, 250 cc, 300 cc) and four-stroke (250 cc, 300 cc, 450 cc) line-ups, we also find a 500 cc four-stroke model in the Cross-Country range. Sherco developed the Cross-Country models primarily for the American and Australian markets, but the 'XCs' will also be available in Europe. Given the rise of (off-road) endurance championships à la BEX (Belgian Endurance Cross championship) and BOXC (Belgian Open Cross Country), there may also be a market for these machines in Belgium. They can also be used for beach races and even motocross competitions.
It would not surprise us that Sherco would still launch Six Days models in the run-up to the ISDE - which will take place from November 12 to 17 in Vina del Mar, Chile.
Tekst: Tom Jacobs
Photos: Sherco
Also to read
MXMag went to see the Free Energy Trailer in Olmen
The automotive sector is leading the way in vehicle electrification, and now the motorcycle industry is taking a similar step. However, developing a machine intended for competition use is a completely different matter…Robert Fobbe at the start in the USA!
Robert Fobbe will be in action for the first two (2) races of the Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship! The 23-year-old rider will…Ian Ampoorter makes his return to Portugal
After a lot of injuries, Ian Ampoorter will appear behind the starting gate next weekend. The GasGas rider travels to Agueda in good spirits for the third race of the European Championship…Australia returns to the MXGP calendar!
From 2025, Australia will be back on the FIM MXGP-MX2 World Championship calendar. After 24 years, another Grand Prix 'down-under' will be held and this will happen...
Your reactions