The Hard Cross LE is the
most affordable enduro model
from Husqvarna bicycles. At
180mm (7.1 inches) of travel, it's
one step below the Extreme
Cross downhill bikes (200mm
/ 7.9 inches) but still has more
cushion than the "all mountain"
Mountain Cross models, which
ride on 150mm (5.9 inches) of
suspension. The enduro options
come from the Hard Cross LE,
the Hard Cross 7, and the Hard
Cross 9. Each model is spec'd
with different groupsets (fork,
shock, shifters, brakes) and
range from $5199 to $6999.
Our ride came with a lengthy
spec sheet. A 180mm RockShox
Domain R fork is paired nicely
with a RockShox Super Deluxe
Coil Select shock. This plush
combo provides just over seven
inches of travel and is what
ultimately classifies the Hard
Cross in the enduro category.
Shimano's EP-8 motor pow-
ers the Husky and is a popular
off-the-shelf choice of electric
assistance.
The aluminum frame houses
the motor and battery, and the
charger is easily integrated near
the bottom bracket. A 1x12 Sram
SX Eagle drivetrain and TRP
brakes are technically more
budget-friendly components
when compared to the electron-
ic shifters of the Hard Cross 9.
But that's where mountain bikes
differ from motorcycles. Think of
the Hard Cross LE as the "base"
model, whereas the Hard Cross
9 is more like a Factory Edition
with all the coatings, bells and
whistles.
Riding the Hard Cross LE is
when the real fun begins, and
you don't even have to wait for
the downhill. Climbs become
enjoyable with the electric assist
RIDE REVIEW I HUSQVARNA HARD CROSS LE
P94
The Husqvarna Hard Cross LE is
competitively priced at $5199 MSRP.
