VOLUME 57 ISSUE 18 MAY 5, 2020 P47
OFF ROAD BIKE UPDATES
Both FE models in Husqvarna's family of dirt
bikes feature a host of 2020 updates including
new frames, new cylinder heads, new pistons
and cylinders, updated cooling systems and
more. Each engine featured here has higher
compression than the previous generation. As
we've seen every year since sometime around
2011, Austrian bikes lose weight every year. And
this year, these bikes clock in with weight sav-
ings across the board.
Suspension components also get a fresh-
ening up with WP's Xplor 48 forks with hand-
operated spring preload adjusters (with preset
detents) and compression/rebound knobs all lo-
cated on the top cap. The rear WP Xact shock,
mounted to the same progressive rate linkage as
their MX range, provides full adjustability and the
latest tune specs for the new frame.
Along with the rear shock linkage, Husqvarna
models have a couple other unique features and
setups worth noting. First, they utilize Magura
braking components and we've been a fan every
year we've tested them. Their performance has
proven to be on par with KTM's Brembo parts.
Next up is the composite rear subframe. It's
renewed for 2020 with a refined shape and a
longer rear section, now a two-piece unit, and it's
coming in lighter than ever at 2.2 pounds total.
Finally, the seat height of a Husqvarna is
about 10mm lower this year thanks to a compact
wiring harness and new seat. This and the new
bodywork work together to improve the feel rid-
ers have on the bikes. All good news.
Generally speaking, both the Husqvarna FE 350
and FE 501 have very similar handling character-
istics. Taking power delivery out of the equation
(more on that later), the suspension performance
and frame/chassis balance feels spot-on on both.
The suspension feels tuned right for where
you'll want to ride this bike—on trails, not tracks,
and in competition held on trails. It has compli-
