Cycle News is a weekly magazine that covers all aspects of motorcycling including Supercross, Motocross and MotoGP as well as new motorcycles
Issue link: https://magazine.cyclenews.com/i/680400
HUSQVARNA 501 S VS. BETA 500 RS COMPARISON P100 was an overall better setup in stock from. The Husqvarna fa- vored the tighter first and second gear technical sections picking through boulder fields, sharp rocks and swerving through the trees. It has much more precise handling/steering geometry than the Beta. The Husky torque is magic at low rpm, delivering massive usable power but not overly exciting power. Control- ling the power on both bikes is consistent and smooth thanks to hydraulic clutches. These bikes are 50-state legal dual-sport machines so the ex- haust tone is pleasant and within street-legal standards. The Beta muffler flows more freely, provid- ing a deeper, throatier sound. This slightly more open exhaust gives the Beta an edge when it comes to power output and strongly contributes to its more aggressive power output. The Husky is very quiet. Both bikes come stock with Michelin Enduro DOT tires and in general are good all around rubber. The back tire doesn't of- fer a lot of performance in deep sand or mud but when running a heavy-duty tube and reduced air pressure, the traction is good, especially in rocky terrain. For a full day ride, the Husqvarna seat and more plush suspension of- fers slightly more comfort. If you are a tall rider, the Beta offers up a roomier cockpit and an overall longer feeling package. Smaller riders prefer the ergos on the Husky. If cruising down the freeway at 80 mph for extended periods of time is your jam, look elsewhere for a commuter. Like we've said before, these bikes are only turn signals, tires and slightly differ- ent mapping from being full- blown enduro off-road bikes. Every state is different, but in California officials know the rules on dual-sport bikes, so to stay low profile and not draw atten- tion, we like to leave these bikes' stock blinkers on even if they don't look as sweet as small af- termarket units. In the past, turn signals would break off if you sneezed near them, now they are pretty darn durable. After hundreds of miles, some minor crashes and a lot of abuse, neither bike had a blinker issue. They aren't super sealed and get some dirt inside but that can be cleaned. With EFI bikes putting out impressive power numbers, we hope manufactures will outfit bikes with better headlights, but until then we'll ride at night, navigating by what resembles candlelight if using stock lights. Both of these bikes pump out more than enough juice to (Above) The Husky has a lot in common with its KTM cousin (EXC) but suspension sets them apart. (Right) The tag "501" sounds intimidating, but the Husky's 510cc motor is very manage- able on the trail, even the technical ones.