In the 2006 model year, the SMR was one of the Supermoto-inspired motorcycles released by Italy-based Husqvarna. The greatest strength of the 2006 Husqvarna SMR is its ability to handle all types of terrain: from paved roads to snow and rocky paths. Indeed, the 2006 SMR is really a more racing-intensive version of its sibling, the 2006 SM.
The designation placed on the 2006 Husqvarna SMR as a Supermoto bike comes from its inspiration from machines designed to handle circuits that alternate between three types of track racing. Such circuits comprise oval track, off-road, and paved road racing. Two models of the Husqvarna SMR exist: the SMR 450 and the SMR 510. Each model is named after the displacement of its four-stroke, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine—449 cubic centimeters (rounded up to 450) for the SMR 450 and 501 cubic centimeters (rounded up to 510) for the SMR 510.
Possessing four intake valves on its lone cylinder, the 2006 Husqvarna SMR engine has a compression ratio of 12.9 to 1. In accordance with the difference in engine displacement, the bore and stroke is 3.81 by 2.39 inches (97 by 60.8 millimeters) on the SM 450 and 3.81 by 2.67 inches (97 by 67.8 millimeters) on the SM 510. A 41-millimeter Keihin carburetor is in place to blend fuel and air for the engine, and the manufacturer offers the choice between starting the bike using an electric starter or a kick-based one. The engine on each 2006 Husqvarna SMR is hooked up to a six-speed manual transmission.
Blessed with wide, adjustable handlebars, the 2006 SMR uses the same materials on its frame as other bikes from Husqvarna, relying on the sturdiness of steel and lightness of aluminum. Also made of aluminum are its 17-inch wheels, which are fitted with Pirelli® MTR Dragon-EVO tires optimally set for racing and off-road activity. Using plastic covering, the Husqvarna SMR comes with fork guards, a side cover, and front and rear fenders. A kick stand permits the rider to park the bike safely, with a one-piece vinyl unit providing just enough space to sit on.
Like most Husqvarna motorcycles, the 2006 SMR uses Brembo® hydraulic disc brakes: a 12.6-inch (320-millimeter) one at the front and a smaller, 9.5-inch (240-millimeter) one at the back. The Marzocchi inverted fork and Sachs twin-sided swing arm that comprise the suspension efficiently absorb bumps during driving on rougher terrain.
Each 2006 Husqvarna SMR is 86.2 inches in length, 33.1 inches in width and 49.2 inches in height, with a wheelbase of 58.9 inches. The seat height on each bike is set at 36 inches (915 millimeters), and ground clearance is measured at 10.6 inches (270 millimeters). Peak fuel capacity for the Husqvarna SMR is 2.4 gallons (9.2 liters). The SMR 510, at 263.9 pounds (119.7 kilograms), has a higher dry weight than its 450cc counterpart, which weighs 262.8 pounds (119.2 kilograms).
Husqvarna, under the radar, provides some terrific Supermoto bikes. Although the 2006 SM is recommended, check out its SMR sibling from the same model year for a greater racing vibe and capability.