2016 Husqvarna FE501 Review

2016 Husqvarna FE501

2016 Husqvarna FE501

2016 Husqvarna FE501 Review

2016 Husqvarna FE501 on www.Totalmotorcycle.com

Exteme power in a solid chassis…

The most powerful engine in the Husqvarna enduro range features smooth power from idle to rev-limit. The tractable 4-stroke engine can be used with a higher gear thanks to outstanding torque, while the chromoly frame, polyamide subframe, 4CS fork and rear link suspension offer world championship-honed handling and stability. The standard handlebar map switch and electric start complete the premium features of the FE 501.

Engine
The single overhead cam 510.4 cc 4-stroke engine of the FE 501 has a bore of 95 mm and a stroke of 72 mm. Lightweight, DLC coated rocker arms actuate two lightweight 38 mm, 32 g titanium intake valves and two 33 mm, 42 g steel exhaust valves. Peak power of 58 hp is easily accessible thanks to the linear power delivery.
– Broad power band = perfect for tough enduro conditions
– SOHC = compact engine design
– DLC coated rocker arms on intake = broad power band all the way to the 11,500 rev limit

Piston
The König bridge-box-type piston lowers oil consumption, optimising performance. The compression ratio is 11.8:1.
– Bridge box-type piston = high performance and reliability, low oil consumption

Benefits
” Revised front-end geometry and fork and shock setup for optimised handling
” Updated DDS clutch with new clutch basket, 80 g lighter than previous component
” New pressure plate on DDS clutch for better modulation and improved durability
” Standard map switch enables riders to match engine mapping to terrain and conditions
” New disc brakes improve braking performance
” Compact SOHC engine optimised for extreme enduro use
” Rear link suspension guarantees consistent performance on any terrain and in any condition, absorbing big hits and small ruts with ease
” Electric start gets you going without breaking sweat

2016 Husqvarna FE501 www.Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features

The 2015 Husqvarna Off-Road models had many successes worldwide in 2014 and 2015, proving themselves repeatedly with race wins and championships. Andrew Delong captured Husqvarna’s first AMA National Enduro Championship in 28 years, Graham Jarvis topped the Hell’s Gate Extreme Enduro, Pele Renet was victorious in the E2 category of the World Enduro Championship and Mike Brown won the brand’s first ever X Games Gold Medal in EnduroCross. For 2016 the Husqvarna Off-Road Range is upgraded and finely tuned to battle for race wins and championships while conquering the hearts and minds of off-road enthusiasts.
Chassis upgrades and revised suspension settings on the already sharp-handling and lightweight TE and FE models improve handling, confidence and control. New colors and graphics highlight the high-tech nature of the bikes and are a modern interpretation of Husqvarna’s pioneering Swedish color scheme. Model-specific updates and additions ensure the very best throughout the off-road line-up, ensuring more titles and race wins in the future.

The record-breaking year of 2014 was packed with success for Husqvarna in sales and in competitions worldwide. Husqvarna’s enduro bikes proved themselves repeatedly on the world stage by conquering several race wins: Extreme Enduros such as the Hell’s Gate where Graham Jarvis was victorious; important national championships such as the AMA National Enduro where Andrew DeLong triumphed; gruelling rallies stacked with experienced riders such as the Sardinia Rally; and ultimately, victory in the Enduro World Championship in the E2 category in the hands of Pela Renet.

2015 promises to be another memorable year for Husqvarna, and the MY16 enduro range has been finely tuned to battle for race wins, as well as to conquer the hearts and minds of enthusiasts.

Upgraded suspension geometry and revised settings, combined with updated engine details and a standard handlebar map switch, improve handling, confidence and control. The new colours and graphics highlight the high-tech nature of the bikes and are a modern interpretation of the traditional Swedish colour scheme.

GOING FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH, HUSQVARNA MOTORCYCLES ANNOUNCE THE INTRODUCTION OF THEIR 2016 ENDURO RANGE

Closely linked to their continued sporting successes, Husqvarna’s new 2016 enduro model range sees notable improvements and refinements. Engine, chassis and suspension upgrades focused on improving off-road performance ensure the highest grade of Enduro development available.

Sharp and modern bodywork with a Swedish design approach, high-tech chassis and engines, rear link suspension, premium components together with long service intervals and high reliability, plus the largest capacity fuel tank on the market, guarantee Husqvarna Motorcycles have not rested in the development of their MY16 enduro range.

From the light and super-agile two-stroke TE 125 through to the breath taking performance of the four-stroke FE 501, Husqvarna Motorcycles’ premium enduro bikes once again feature seven models to cater for the needs of both competitive racers and weekend trail warriors. With easy rideability to support the rider in every situation there is no better choice when pioneering new terrain.

Together with Husqvarna’s off-road race teams, experienced designers and engineers have worked tirelessly to deliver important updates for the coming year. Extensive input into the 2016 models has come from Husqvarna’s top-level racers – Enduro 2 World Champion Pela Renet, Extreme Enduro star Graham Jarvis and AMA National Enduro Champion Andrew DeLong. Knowledge gained from competition lies at the heart of Husqvarna’s 2016 model improvements.

Chassis, suspension and engine enhancements deliver a lighter, more comfortable and competitive ride. Upgraded suspension geometry and revised settings, combined with a standard handlebar map switch improve handling, confidence and control.

On all 2016 enduro bikes a new lighter 22 mm front axle with optimised axle clamp dimensions replace the previous 26 mm axle to offer improved stability and better front-end feel. Shorter axle clamp offset also helps improve fork function.

High quality, anodised black CNC machined triple clamps on all bikes now feature a 22 mm offset. Designed to evenly distribute the clamping force on the fork leg, when combined with the new front axle and axle clamp geometry it ensures improved agility and stability. The triple clamps also allow for four handlebar positions to suit the needs of a wide variety of riders.

Complementing the front axle and triple clamp updates, the 4CS fork – now in its fourth year of production – has been further developed to improve damping, handling, plushness and rider comfort. Easy access clicker dials provide quick adjustments on the go. The high performance DCC (Dual Compression Control) rear link suspension made by WP has a revised setup perfectly matching the geometry and setup changes on the front-end, allowing the rider to command the trail with confidence.

An updated lightweight six-speed gearbox with enduro specific gearing has been fitted to all enduro models to ensure easy and precise shifting. Combined with the DDS clutch system and the premium Brembo hydraulic system means the MY16 enduro range delivers smoother shifting and consistent clutch action. For 2016 the FE450 and FE 501 clutch basket is now 80 grams lighter.

Modifications to the lubrication system on the FE 250 and FE 350 improve lubrication in extreme conditions while also helping to prevent damage against excessive oil fill-up.

Further developments for 2016 see new fork protectors, a standard ignition map switch, GFK disc brakes front and rear, lighter spokes with a weight saving of 100g, a sporty looking blue anodised Supersprox 2K rear sprocket, new seat cover and finally new colours and graphics that reflect Husqvarna’s traditional colours.

ENDURO MY16 NEWS AND UPDATES

o New 22 mm front axle
o 22 mm offset triple clamps
o Revised 4CS fork setup
o New rear shock setup
o New fork protectors with inmould graphics
o Updated gearbox on FE 250 and FE 350
o Updated DDS clutch on FE 450 and FE 501
o Standard map switch
o Modified lubrication system on FE 250 and FE 350
o New front and rear disc brakes
o New lightweight spokes
o Blue anodised rear sprocket
o New seat cover with high-grip and durable material
o New colours and graphics

New 22 mm Front Axle
A new, lighter 22 mm front axle replaces the previous 26 mm axle. This smaller diameter not only reduces weight by 40 grams but also allows for shorter fork shoes. This results in less offset and increased trail for more stability with improved front end feel.

22 mm Offset CNC Triple Clamp
Black CNC machined triple clamps on all models now feature a 2 mm increase in offset to 22 mm, reducing trail and balancing the increased trail from the new fork shoes. An optimal balance between agility and stability has been achieved due to the combination of the new clamp and fork shoe offset.
The triple clamps are made from precisely machined high-quality materials and are anodized in a deep black. Designed to evenly distribute clamping force on the fork leg, the CNC clamps maximize contact area for world class sensitivity along with minimum friction. Accurate flex has been designed into the triple clamps, perfectly complementing the front fork to transfer detailed information to the rider. Four different handlebar positions ensure proper ergonomics for a wide variety of riders.

Revised 4CS Fork Settings
WP Suspension stands for top quality and offers the best performance levels available today. Precision engineering, quality materials and advanced production processes create the premium suspension on the Husqvarna model range. With a new offset on the triple clamp and fork shoes, the premium WP 4CS fork settings have been revised to suit the new front-end geometry. Now in its fourth year of production, the 4CS has achieved a perfect balance between performance, fell and reliability. Model-specific damping settings on the four-chamber system of the 4CS increase handling and plushness with more comfort – the ideal combination for off-road competition.

New Rear Shock Settings
The high performance DCC (Dual Compression Control) rear shock made by WP features revised damping to match the geometry and settings of the new front-end. Maximum feedback and comfort is guaranteed along with an excellent damping character specifically designed for off-road racing. The rear WP shock is fully-tunable with rebound, high/low speed compression and preload adjustment.

New Fork Protectors with Inmould Graphics
The fork protectors have been redesigned for improved access to the fork leg for easier maintenance and cleaning. No longer does the protector wrap around the lower leg which also makes for easier replacement. High quality inmould graphics in white plastic ensure long-lasting and stylish looks.

New Front and Rear Brake Discs
New brake discs by GFK on the front and rear feature stronger braking power and increased control.

New Lighter Spokes
The 2016 Husqvarna off-road range features lighter spokes for an overall unpsrung weight reduction of 100 grams to optimized handling.
Blue Anodized Rear Sprocket
Taking sporty looks to a new lever while improving quality and performance, a blue anodized Supersprox 2K rear sprocket has been added to the 2016 off-road range. The sprocket features a lightweight aluminum inner ring for 50% less unsprung weight matched to a high-strength steel outer ring of teeth for three times the durability of a full aluminum sprocket.

New Seat Cover
A new seat cover greatly improves grip compared to the previous material. Its deep blue color integrates perfectly with the new bodywork colors and graphics.

New Colors and Graphics
New color tones for the 2016 models have evolved into a dark blue pearl with bright yellow accents. The front fender, rear fender and headlight mask plastics are a bright white to complete the traditional Husqvarna color scheme.

2016 Husqvarna FE501 www.Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits

ENGINE

The single overhead cam 510.4 cc 4-stroke engine of the FE 501 has a bore of 95 mm and a stroke of 72 mm. Lightweight, DLC coated rocker arms actuate two lightweight 38 mm, 32 g titanium intake valves and two 33 mm, 42 g steel exhaust valves. Peak power of 58 hp is easily accessible thanks to the linear power delivery.

UPDATED DDS CLUTCH

The DDS (damped diaphragm steel) clutch system is featured on the FE 501 to achieve smooth clutch action and easy control. A single diaphragm steel pressure plate is used instead of coil springs. It integrates a damping system for better traction and durability. The clutch basket is a single-piece CNC machined steel component that allows the use of thin steel liners and contributes to the narrowness of the engine. For MY16, the FE 450 and FE 501 clutch basket is 80 g lighter and features an optimised pressure plate for better modulation and improved durability.

STANDARD MAP SWITCH

With the map switch fitted as standard on all the enduro models except the TE 125, the power delivery characteristics of the engine can be modified according to terrain and rider preference.

CRANKSHAFT AND CONROD

Class-leading performance, matched with incredible reliability, is achieved thanks to the most advanced crankshaft and conrod technology. All the 4-stroke engines feature crankshafts and conrods produced by industry leader Pankl, ensuring by far the best durability and longest service intervals in the competition enduro segment (135 hours before major engine rebuilds). The plain big end bearing and the force-fitted bearing shells ensure that high performance and durability can be combined.

CHROMOLY STEEL FRAME

High-strength steel of the highest quality is laser cut and robot welded to exacting standards by WP Performance Systems, according to precise torsional rigidity, longitudinal flex and weight defined by our R&D department. Finely-tuned torsional rigidity provides sharp handling and stability, while calculated longitudinal flex helps absorb impacts from the terrain, working together with the suspension for better comfort and greater feedback. The lightweight design allows riders to confidently pick faster lines while maintaining race-winning pace over extended periods of time.

ALUMINIUM SWINGARM

A great deal of development effort has been put into designing the aluminium swingarm to reach the incredible targets that our pro riders set. The precisely designed flex of the swingarm allows riders to accurately feel the terrain, enabling them to feed the right amount of power to the rear wheel in order to optimise traction and speed. The single component construction of the aluminium swingarm eliminates welding, providing more reliability, stability and safety, as well as superior quality and consistent behaviour over time compared to other construction processes.

BODYWORK

The stylish and modern bodywork has been designed for a perfect fit of man and machine, allowing for total control in all conditions for the most diverse body sizes.

WHEELS AND TYRES

Black high-strength alloy rims by DID are matched to CNC machined hubs and silver anodised aluminium nipples, for reliable performance and modern looks. World Championship level performance is guaranteed by Michelin Enduro Competition IV and III tyres front and back respectively.

NEW REAR SHOCK SETUP

The high performance DCC (Dual Compression Control) rear shock made by WP has a revised setup and has been re-valved to match the geometry and setup changes on the front-end. The new setup features improved damping characteristics and balance. The high performance DCC (Dual Compression Control) rear shock is designed by WP Performance Systems; it guarantees excellent damping characteristics, ensuring maximum feedback and comfort. The shock is completely adjustable for rebound and high/low speed compression damping.

REAR LINK

Now in its third year of development, the rear linkage on the Husqvarna enduros has proven itself as the optimal choice for all riding styles and levels of rider ability. The versatile system performs well on the widest variety of terrain, from tight and technical trails, to wide open, high-speed tracks. The high level of comfort guaranteed by our linkage system allows riders to tackle rough terrain with optimal feeling and traction in every condition.

NEW 22MM FRONT AXLE

Detail improvements and optimisation on the MY16 enduro bikes are based on the updated front end where a new 22 mm front axle with specific fork shoes replaces the previous 26 mm axle. The new axle is lighter, and the shoes have shorter offset and increased trail, for more stability and better front-end feel.

22MM OFFSET TRIPLE CLAMP

The CNC machined triple clamps on all the bikes now feature a 22 mm offset. The resultant reduction in trail balances the increased trail due to the new front axle and fork shoes, for optimal balance between agility and stability. The triple clamps are made of high quality materials, precisely machined and anodised in deep black, and are designed to evenly distribute the clamping force on the fork leg, maximising contact area for optimal sensitivity and minimum friction. Accurate flex has been designed into the triple clamps, perfectly complementing the fork, and transferring detailed information to the rider. Ergonomics play a major role in rider feeling and confidence, so the handlebar can be adjusted in 4 different positions to adapt to a wide variety of riders.

ELECTRIC START

Standard electric start ensures effortless and reliable starting that is especially useful in difficult terrain. The 4-strokes offer the possibility to retro-fit a kick-starter.

TOOL-LESS AIR FILTER ACCESS

Tool-less access to the airbox, combined with a screwless air filter mounting system, makes air filter maintenance and inspection quick and easy. All models fit a Twin Air filter as standard and have specifically designed air intake snorkels for maximum power.

NEW SEAT COVER

The new seat cover is highly resistant and greatly improves grip compared to the previous material. The colour is now a deep blue that integrates perfectly with the new colour of the bodywork.

BLUE ANODISED REAR SPROCKET

The blue anodised Supersprox 2K rear sprocket is a valuable addition that takes the sporty looks to a new level, as well as improving quality and performance. High-strength steel teeth have at least 3 times longer life than an aluminium sprocket, while the lightweight aluminium inner ring reduces unsprung weight by 50% compared to steel sprockets.

2016 Husqvarna FE501 – www.Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: See dealer for pricing in USD

ENGINE
Design
1-cylinder 4-stroke engine, water-cooled

Displacement
510.4 cm³

Bore
95 mm

Stroke
72 mm

Starting aid
Electric starter

Transmission
6-speed, claw shifted

Engine lubrication
Forced oil lubrication with 2 Eaton pumps

Primary ratio
32:76

Secondary gear ratio
14:50 (13:50)

Cooling system
Liquid cooling system, continuous circulation of cooling liquid with water pump

Clutch
Wet multi-disc clutch DDS / Brembo hydraulics

Ignition system
Contactless, controlled, fully electronic ignition system with digital ignition timing adjustment

CHASSIS
Frame
Central tube frame made of chrome molybdenum steel tubing

Forks
WP Suspension Up Side Down 4CS

Shock absorber
WP Monoshock with linkage

Suspension travel Front
300 mm

Suspension travel Rear
330 mm

Brake system Front
Disc brake with two-piston floating brake caliper

Brake system Rear
Disc brake with single-piston floating brake caliper

Brake discs – diameter Front
260 mm

Brake discs – diameter Rear
220 mm

Chain
X-ring 5/8 x 1/4″

Steering head angle
63.5°

Wheel base
1,482±10 mm

Ground clearance (unloaded)
345 mm

Seat height (unloaded)
970 mm

Total fuel tank capacity approx.
9 l Unleaded premium fuel (95 RON)

Weight without fuel approx.
113.3 kg

2016 Husqvarna FE501 – www.Totalmotorcycle.com Canadian Specifications/Technical Details
Canada MSRP Price: $ See dealer for pricing in CDN

ENGINE
Design
1-cylinder 4-stroke engine, water-cooled

Displacement
510.4 cm³

Bore
95 mm

Stroke
72 mm

Starting aid
Electric starter

Transmission
6-speed, claw shifted

Engine lubrication
Forced oil lubrication with 2 Eaton pumps

Primary ratio
32:76

Secondary gear ratio
14:50 (13:50)

Cooling system
Liquid cooling system, continuous circulation of cooling liquid with water pump

Clutch
Wet multi-disc clutch DDS / Brembo hydraulics

Ignition system
Contactless, controlled, fully electronic ignition system with digital ignition timing adjustment

CHASSIS
Frame
Central tube frame made of chrome molybdenum steel tubing

Forks
WP Suspension Up Side Down 4CS

Shock absorber
WP Monoshock with linkage

Suspension travel Front
300 mm

Suspension travel Rear
330 mm

Brake system Front
Disc brake with two-piston floating brake caliper

Brake system Rear
Disc brake with single-piston floating brake caliper

Brake discs – diameter Front
260 mm

Brake discs – diameter Rear
220 mm

Chain
X-ring 5/8 x 1/4″

Steering head angle
63.5°

Wheel base
1,482±10 mm

Ground clearance (unloaded)
345 mm

Seat height (unloaded)
970 mm

Total fuel tank capacity approx.
9 l Unleaded premium fuel (95 RON)

Weight without fuel approx.
113.3 kg

2016 Husqvarna FE501 – www.Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details
Europe/UK MSRP Price: OTR £ See Dealer GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)

ENGINE
Design
1-cylinder 4-stroke engine, water-cooled

Displacement
510.4 cm³

Bore
95 mm

Stroke
72 mm

Starting aid
Electric starter

Transmission
6-speed, claw shifted

Engine lubrication
Forced oil lubrication with 2 Eaton pumps

Primary ratio
32:76

Secondary gear ratio
14:50 (13:50)

Cooling system
Liquid cooling system, continuous circulation of cooling liquid with water pump

Clutch
Wet multi-disc clutch DDS / Brembo hydraulics

Ignition system
Contactless, controlled, fully electronic ignition system with digital ignition timing adjustment

CHASSIS
Frame
Central tube frame made of chrome molybdenum steel tubing

Forks
WP Suspension Up Side Down 4CS

Shock absorber
WP Monoshock with linkage

Suspension travel Front
300 mm

Suspension travel Rear
330 mm

Brake system Front
Disc brake with two-piston floating brake caliper

Brake system Rear
Disc brake with single-piston floating brake caliper

Brake discs – diameter Front
260 mm

Brake discs – diameter Rear
220 mm

Chain
X-ring 5/8 x 1/4″

Steering head angle
63.5°

Wheel base
1,482±10 mm

Ground clearance (unloaded)
345 mm

Seat height (unloaded)
970 mm

Total fuel tank capacity approx.
9 l Unleaded premium fuel (95 RON)

Weight without fuel approx.
113.3 kg

Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).