The Enduro class of motorcycle is a hybrid half-breed built for both legal on-road riding and offroad endurance racing. These bikes are usually focused on performance off the road on dirt and trail with the ability to ride on the road, legally, being an added convenience. Husqvarna calls this approach the ""90:10"" – 90% offroad, 10% on. The TE 449 is their flagship enduro racer with a powerful BMW engine and excellent layout and attention to detail.
Most of the street-required accessories on the bike, including rear view mirrors, muffler and tailpipe, and license plate frame, can be quickly removed once reaching the trail. For amateur racers, this can be a big deal as it allows them to ride to the event, strip off the extras, and then go racing. Of course, with all of that gear still on, the TE 449 is still a fine off roader, but becomes more so without the extras.
Riders on the 2011 Husqvarna TE 449 will note its throaty growl and responsive shifting thanks to the new Bremmo shifter in the clutch. The 2011 TE 449, being the first collaboration between BMW and Husqvarna since the buyout, is a merging of two schools of thought on enduro bikes. BMW's enduro line is known for its emphasis on roadworthiness while Husqvarna has eschewed that in favor of offroad prowess. The TE 449 adds some BMW technology, but keeps the Husky eye towards easy maintenance and hardiness. This results in a beautiful rear suspension system that marries the two ideas and a strong ride for anyone who sits on a TE 449.