Cycle News

QUICKSPIN I 2026 Husqvarna FC 250 Factory Edition P106 is far and above that of the stock unit, and fine-tuning it to your liking is easier than ever thanks to its broader versatility. The suspension department is where the Husqvarna dif- fers from its KTM cousin. The Husqvarna has 0.3 of an inch less rear travel, which lowers it 0.3 of an inch to the ground. The seat height is about half an inch lower as well. It's also nearly a full pound heavier than the KTM and is eight pounds more than the standard FC 250. While some of these num - bers come out to be less than an inch, they do make a sig- nificant difference in the bike's feel, especially when compared back-to-back with the KTM. The Husqvarna feels lower to the ground and slightly longer overall. This makes for a stable feeling from the chassis at high speeds but slightly less respon - siveness in tighter sections than the KTM. It also doesn't seem to be an advantage in deep or rutted conditions. Due to its slightly shorter stature, smaller riders might favor the white machine over the orange one. As a taller rider, I still gravi- tate toward the KTM, as the slightly taller ergonomics and more active feel better suit my riding style. The differences between the two bikes have become smaller than ever in recent years, which makes personal preference a bigger differentiator. Engine performance contin - ues the Husqvarna's theme of usability and control. The FC for a wide range of skill levels. It still likes to be revved, but the overall feeling seems to be less rowdy than the KTM. The standard engine map (white light on the handle- bar switch) provides a solid baseline for power. Riders can confidently roll on the throttle without worrying about sudden power surges or upsetting the chassis. Switching to the more aggressive map changes the bike's personality, making it rev more freely and feel more energetic. On faster tracks with larger jumps and longer straightaways, the aggressive map became our preferred setting. It gives the FC 250 a livelier feel without sacrificing the smooth power delivery that makes this bike so enjoyable to ride. The strongest argument in favor of the 2026 Husqvarna FC 250 Factory Edition comes down to value. While the initial purchase price may seem steep compared to a standard FC 250 or any other 250F, for that mat- ter, the premium suspension package alone significantly off- sets the difference. Add in the FMF exhaust, premium wheel- set, race-inspired accessories and factory styling, and the Rockstar Edition begins to look less like an expensive special edition and more like a carefully assembled package deal. For riders who would eventually install many of these upgrades anyway, the Rockstar Edition is a no-brainer. Ryan Nitzen 2026 HUSQVARNA FC 250 FACTORY EDITION ($12,699) Engine 4-stroke, single Cooling System Liquid Displacement 249cc Starting System Electric Transmission 5-speed Bore x Stroke 81mm x 48.5mm Clutch Wet multi-disc, Brembo hydraulics Fueling Keihin EFI, throttle body 44mm Front Suspension WP Pro Components Xact Pro 7548 front fork Rear Suspension WP Pro Components Xact Pro 8950 rear shock Front Travel 11.81 in. Rear Travel 11.5 in. Brakes Front 260mm / Rear 220mm Handlebar Pro Taper, Aluminum Exhaust FMF Factory 4.1 RCT Front Wheel 21 in., Excel rim Rear Wheel 19 in., Excel rim Tires Dunlop MX34 Seat Height 37.24 in. Fuel Capacity 1.9 gal. Weight (no fuel, claimed) 232.36 lbs. S P E C I F I C A T I O N S 250 produces smooth, man- ageable power across the rpm range. Instead of an aggressive hit like the KTM, the engine revs up progressively with a predict - able feeling that's easy to ride

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