The FE 501s engine is the most powerful model in the Husqvarna Motorcycles FE line-up and benefits from advanced engineering techniques to deliver maximum performance. The engine is positioned in the frame to assist with the anti-squat behavior of the chassis while also helping to centralize mass.
Review – Key Features – Features & Benefits – Specifications
2026 Husqvarna FE501s: PERFECTLY BALANCED.
Introducing the 2026 Husqvarna FE501s…
The latest technology and premium components ensure the FE 501s offers a riding experience like nothing else. Advanced electronics tame the most powerful machine in the dual-sport line-up with the FE 501s delivering a broad spread of controllable power. Inside the engine, the shaft arrangements are positioned at the ideal centre of gravity to vastly benefit manoeuvrability, which is complemented further by the perfectly balanced chassis and WP XACT suspension. Expertly assembled with high-quality components throughout, the FE 501s is finished with functional bodywork adorned with new graphics inspired by the Swedish heritage of the brand.
2026 Husqvarna FE501s Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
- New graphics for a classic, Swedish-inspired look
- New radiator shrouds enhance aesthetics and improve ergonomics
- New threaded radiator cap simplifies inspection of the coolant level
- New fuel line protection cap boosts durability
- New fuel tank shape maximizes fuel consumption
- Revised WP XACT Closed Cartridge front forks offer improved damping and overall handling
- WP XACT rear shock features tool-free adjusters and new settings to complement the forks
- Radiator fans maintain optimal engine temperature
- Brembo hydraulic clutch and brake systems provide performance and reliability
- Perfectly balanced hydro-formed chromium molybdenum frame
- Aluminum-polyamide hybrid subframe construction provides specifically calculated rigidity and advanced durability
- High-performance GSK discs offer exceptional braking power
- Offroad Control Unit (OCU) for exceptional reliability and user-friendly serviceability of the electronics
- High-performance LED headlight for exceptional light output
- Premium-quality ProTaper handlebar and ODI grips
- Reliable electric start powered by a lightweight Li-Ion 2.0 Ah battery
Husqvarna Mobility unveils its dual-sport line-up for 2026
Class-leading machines deliver exceptional street and offroad performance
The competition-derived, street-legal range includes an extensive list of race-tested components, delivering unmatched ridability and build quality. For 2026, new graphics, radiator shrouds, rear fender, and fork guards highlight the visual updates, while a fuel line protector improves durability, and a redesigned fuel tank shape maximizes fuel consumption.
2026 Husqvarna FE501s Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
Engine
The FE 501s engine is the most powerful model in the Husqvarna Motorcycles FE line-up and benefits from advanced engineering techniques to deliver maximum performance. The engine is positioned in the frame to assist with the anti-squat behaviour of the chassis while also helping to centralise mass.
Cylinder head
The SOHC cylinder head is incredibly compact and lightweight with the camshaft positioned as close to the center of gravity as possible. A durable, fine-punched cam chain and Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coated rocker arm offer optimal efficiency and reliability with a single oil spray jet providing effective cooling. Valve timings are optimized for maximum torque and a smooth power delivery.
Cylinder and piston
The lightweight aluminum cylinder is an engineering masterpiece with a 95 mm bore and a stroke of 72 mm. Inside, the forged CP bridged-box-type piston features anodized annular grooves for added durability and extended service intervals. The compression ratio remains unchanged at 12.75:1.
Crankcases
Designed to be low in weight without sacrificing strength or reliability, the crankcases are made using a high-pressure die cast production process to create a thin-wall design. To centralize engine mass, the shaft arrangements are precisely positioned to harness rotating masses at the ideal center of gravity.
Throttle body
The FE 501s features a 42 mm Keihin throttle body optimised for throttle response. The injector is positioned to ensure the most efficient flow into the combustion chamber with the throttle cable mounted directly without a linkage for an enhanced response.
Exhaust
The exhaust system is expertly designed to deliver class-leading performance at the lowest possible weight with the header pipe manufactured in two pieces. This design allows the header pipe to be removed without having to remove the rear shock. Further innovation allows for a short, compact silencer without increasing sound levels. The silencer is crafted from lightweight aluminum and stylishly finished with a black coating to highlight its premium quality.
Frame
A proven chromium molybdenum steel frame ensures straight-line stability at speed without sacrificing agility through the slow and technical sections. Optimized wall thickness throughout the chassis aids durability, in addition to providing unparalleled rider feedback and energy absorption. For an optimized level of anti-squat behavior and overall chassis balance, the shock is not directly connected to the main tube. The frame is complete with a premium metallic blue powder coating with frame protectors offering improved grip in all conditions.
Hybrid subframe
Made from 60% polyamide and 40% aluminum, the subframe offers exceptional strength and durability at a low overall weight of just 3.9 lb (1.8 kg). The lower subframe spars and frame mounts are manufactured from cast aluminum for reliability, with the upper section made from injection-molded polyamide to enable specific flex characteristics.
Swingarm
The swingarm is manufactured using a die-cast production process for optimal rigidity. To match the flex characteristics of the chassis, a 22 mm rear axle is utilized. Additionally, the swingarm is designed to enhance the durability of the chain glider while the chain guide features a rounded profile that makes it less prone to catching on external objects.
Bodywork
Adorned with clean, Swedish-inspired graphics, the bodywork is designed to allow riders to perform at their best for extended periods of time. A flat seat profile offers unrestricted movement with a new, high grip cover ensuring riders stay firmly in place under hard acceleration. Above the side panels, recessed pockets allow for the machine to be lifted and moved, which is particularly beneficial in highly technical terrain.
Radiators
Manufactured from high-strength aluminum, the radiators are designed using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to channel air through them in the most effective way. A large center tube through the frame reduces pressure at this point in the system for a consistent coolant flow, while an internal thermostat further enhances reliability. A new threaded radiator cap allows for easy inspection of the coolant level before each ride.
Triple clamps
The black-anodized, CNC-machined triple clamps offer premium quality as standard. They have a carefully calculated 22 mm offset and are expertly crafted using superior techniques and materials for the highest levels of quality and reliability. The handlebar clamp has a large contact surface with the ProTaper bars to help prevent twisting in the event of an impact and offers two mounting options for customizable ergonomics.
WP XACT front forks
Designed and developed for the rigors of enduro riding, the WP XACT Closed Cartridge spring forks offer consistent performance thanks to an innovative internal design that optimizes oil flow and prevents oil from foaming. The hydrostop, effective in the last 68 mm of travel, is highly advantageous when landing heavily as it helps to maintain forward momentum. Additionally, riders can alter the compression and rebound settings quickly and easily using the tool-free adjusters found at the top and bottom of each fork leg.
WP XACT rear shock
The lightweight WP XACT rear shock offers 300 mm of travel. With the rebound and both high and low speed compression adjustable by hand, setting changes can be achieved quickly and easily without tools. Complete with a CFD optimized shock piston, low friction seals, and a new, smaller linkage bolt to reduce weight, consistent damping, comfort, and traction is guaranteed.
Hydraulic brakes
The highest level of performance is guaranteed thanks to the class leading Brembo calipers and controls, which are new for 2025. Together with GSK wave discs (260 mm disc front and 220 mm rear), which are designed to prevent mud from building up, superior stopping power and braking confidence is assured in all conditions.
Hydraulic clutch
The new, high-performance Brembo hydraulic clutch system delivers even wear, near maintenance-free operation, and perfect feel in every condition. With this hydraulic system, free play is constantly compensated so that the pressure point, and the function of the clutch, remain identical in cold or hot conditions, as well as over time. Countless hours of testing have proven the reliability of the high-quality, Italian-made Brembo hydraulic system.
Wheels and tires
CNC-machined hubs, strong spokes, and high-strength, black-anodised alloy rims are used to assemble the wheels. They are complete with the latest Continental TKC 80 dual-sport tires for precise cornering and superior grip across varied terrain.
LED headlight
The LED headlight provides a remarkably bright light output for excellent visibility at night and is particularly effective when riding through dense woodland. A clever mounting design sees the LED lighting unit fitted inside the headlight mask using a quick-release system that allows it to be replaced quickly and easily if damaged.
Offroad Control Unit
The OCU replaces electronic fuses and relays (main relay, fan relay, light relay) and can be found under the seat. All outputs are switched depending on signals from the voltage regulator and the ECU. In the event of over-current, outputs are deactivated individually. This allows a simple error detection as the status of each output is indicated by an LED light, making it easy to find an issue quickly and get back to riding.
Throttle and grips
The ODI lock-on grip on the left side does not require gluing, while on the right, the vulcanized grip features an innovative integrated throttle mechanism. The assembly has easy free-play adjustment and, by changing a cam, throttle progression can be altered. The throttle housing has been designed for optimal stability and resistance against impacts.
Electric start
Taken from the motocross range, the combined start/stop switch is located on the right side of the handlebar for easy, thumb-operated use. Not only simplifying the starting and stopping of the engine, but the removal of a designated stop only button from the handlebar reduces the risk of potential damage or activation in the event of a fall.
Footrest
Using state-of-the-art computational fluid dynamics, the large footrests are designed for maximum control and to prevent mud from building up. Additionally, the mounting position brings them inwards, which makes them less susceptible to catching on the ground through deep ruts.
Airbox
With precisely positioned inlet ducts reducing air flow deformation, the airbox ensures unrestricted airflow with maximum filter protection. The Twin Air filter is mounted onto a cage designed to offer accurate installation and can be easily accessed without tools by removing the left side panel.
2026 Husqvarna FE501s – Totalmotorcycle.com Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $ See Dealer for pricing in USD
Canada MSRP Price: $ See Dealer for pricing in CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ See Dealer for pricing in GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
Engine
• Primary drive 29:72
• Transmission 6-speed
• Battery capacity 2Ah
• Cooling Liquid cooled
• Secondary gear ratio 14:48
• Starter Electric starter
• Stroke 72mm
• Bore 95mm
• Clutch Wet, DDS multi-disc clutch, Brembo hydraulics
• Compression ratio 12.75
• Displacement 510.9cm³
• EMS Keihin EMS
• Design 1-cylinder, 4-stroke engine
• Fuel-mixture generation Keihin EFI, throttle body 42 mm
Chassis
• Weight (without fuel) 116.2kg
• Tank capacity (approx.) 7.7l
• Wheelbase 1489mm
• Front brake disc diameter 260mm
• Rear brake disc diameter 220mm
• Chain 520 X-Ring
• Frame design Central double-cradle-type 25CrMo4 steel
• Front suspension WP XACT cartridge Ø 48 mm
• Ground clearance 343mm
• Handlebar Pro Taper, Aluminium Ø 28/22 mm
• Rear suspension WP XACT Monoshock with linkage
• Seat height 952 mm
• Silencer Aluminium
• Steering head angle 63.9°
• Rear subframe design Aluminum-reinforced polyamide
• Suspension travel (front) 300mm
• Suspension travel (rear) 300mm
• Tyre dimensions (front/rear) 90/90; 140/90
• Wheels 1.60 x 21″; 2.15 x 18″
• Wheels Spoked wheels with aluminium rims
• Wheelbase 1489 ± 10 mm
Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).
Posted on August 27, 2025 by Michael Le Pard
