2013 Husqvarna TR Review

Practicality meets passion with Husqvarna’s all-new 2013 TR650 Strada. The any-day-of-the-week motorcycle is capable of being both urban commuter and weekend trekker. The motorcycle comes in two models (the dual-purpose Terra, which is dirt and street-oriented, and the Strada, which is road-only) featuring a 652cc single-cylinder DOHC motor based on BMW’s G 650 GS engine. A modified fuel-njection system, redesigned cams, higher compression and revised piston and cylinder head increase the power output, allowing the TR650 to boast 58 horsepower while still offering excellent fuel capacity of over 55 MPG.

The two models of the TR650 have a few differences in appearance and functionality, mainly in the tires, natUrally, and slight dimensional variations in seat height (the Terra is one inch taller) and fender distance. However, they share a lot of the same characteristics, mainly sleek and slender bodywork, compact instrumentation, and a long and narrow seat with sufficient padding – more than a standard dirt bike, for which the seat is modeled after.

Most motorcycles in the TR650’s class are notorious for being somewhat unpleasant at high speeds, but these bikes seem to stay incredibly stable and true at speed of up to 85 MPH. The only thing that might be troubling is a lack of wind protection. The bike is also very agile and easy to manipulate on either dirt or street. Narrow wheels and a slender body make it easy to toss the bike from side to side on any kind of road or dirt trail. All of this is topped off by a long-travel suspension that soaks up rough pavement and off-road obstacles like a champ.