2011 Husqvarna TE Review

Intro

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.

New For 2011

  • New Department of Transportation-approved tires for better offroad performance without sacrificing street worthiness
  • New, stronger frame materials to improve the TE's ability to take punishment without breaking performance
  • New six-speed transmission with hydraulic-assist shifting to smooth gearshift performance and speed reactions from the rider's input
  • Durable WP radiators and cooling fan for optimum thermal management during demanding rides
  • Brembo hydraulic braking system and rotors for improved, more reliable stopping power
  • More durable chain glide and slider for added strength and reliability in tough riding conditions
  • Larger swingarm pivot with larger bearings to improve suspension performance at the rear without changing sprocket and chain travel

2011 Husqvarna TE Specs

  • Model: TE 449
  • Engine Type: Single-cylinder, four-stroke
  • Bore and Stroke: 2.9 x 2.4-inches
  • Compression ratio: 12:1
  • Valve Train: Dual overhead cam (DOHC) four-valve
  • Induction: N/A
  • Ignition: CDI electric
  • Transmission: Six-speed manual
  • Final Drive: Chain
  • Fuel Capacity: 2.51 gallons
  • Estimated Fuel Economy: N/A
  • Brakes (Front): N/A
  • Brakes (Rear): N/A
  • Suspension (Front): Open-cartridge fork
  • Suspension (Rear): Kayaba single-shock, adjustable
  • Wheelbase: 58.7 inches
  • Rake: 25.8 degrees
  • Trail: 3.98 inches
  • Seat Height: 37.5 inches
  • Curb Weight: 255.7 pounds
  • Tires (Front): 90/90 21-inch
  • Tires (Rear): 140/80 18-inch

Accessories

  • Husqvarna logo bike stand and workshop bench for portable or in-shop tie-ins with the motorcycle's overall look during display or maintenance
  • Larger rearview mirrors that retain the easy detachment capabilities of the originals, but give a wider view of the road behind.
  • Replacement pipes and muffler for on-road driving to lower noise over the factory-equipped pipes. Easily swapped with the same fittings used to remove hardware for offroad use
  • Replacement fairings and front fender with smooth options for custom branding and logo placement
  • Offroad dedicated tires on mounted spoke wheels for fast swap replacement at the event

Key Competitors For The 2011 Husqvarna TE

  • Kawasaki KLX450R
  • BMW G 450 X
  • Honda CRF450X
  • Yamaha WR450F
  • KTM 450 XC-W