5 Key Reasons Why Husabergs are Different from KTMs

A closer look at the 2013 Husaberg line-up reveals that some key and different characteristics from it's orange sister, KTM. Here they are and why:

Handling

Handling characteristics are different from the KTM due in large part by the 20mm offset triple clamps. In recent years, we have seen KTM adopt a 22mm offset triple clamp. What's the difference? While the 22mm offset provides a more stable ride at higher speeds, it requires the steering of the motorcycle to be more reliant on the rider leaning while turning. However, the 20mm offset clamp on the Husaberg allows the rider to steer the motorcycle with the handlebar and a more "flick-able" bike is achieved. This tends to be a more desirable set-up for tight trail and enduro riding. 

Air Box

If you've changed a KTM air filter in the past 10 years and thought that it couldn't get any easier. Well, it did. Not only is the air filter better protected behind the airbox cover as compared to KTM, it has a much easier accessible plastic retainer. Husaberg has adapted a separate intake snorkel for each model to optimize air flow.

 

 

Forks

Adding further to the different handling characteristics of the Husaberg as compared to the KTM is the Four Chamber System (4CS) Forks. The left fork is in charge of the compression while the right side is responsible for rebound (Think R for Right and R for Rebound) This setup makes the forks more user friendly as both rebound and compression clickers are on top of the forks and easily accessible to the rider. Out of the box, they out perform the close cartridge forks used on KTM. 

 

 

 

Ploy Sub Frame

All supporting parts of the rear end of the Husaberg are made from high strength, injection-molded plastic. The three elements are bolted together and link perfectly with the surrounding bodywork. The ribbing and toughness of the material allow the highest level of stability to be achieved at minimum weight for the bike. For good measure, it also provides vibration dampening as it absorbs vibration from being transferred to the rider. 

Appearance

The bike is absolutely beautiful! From blue wheels to black machined triple clamps this fit and trim finish of the Husaberg will certainly stand out in a sea of orange. 











But, are they completely different? Well, no, and for good reason. The TE 250 and TE 300 utilize the best power plant in the industry from KTM. Instead of going with the 70 degree four-stroke motor for the 5th year in a row, Husaberg has opted to use engines from KTM. This gives Husaberg it's lightest four stroke ever in its FE 250. The FE 350 pulls more horse power and is lighter than it's predecessor, the FE 390. All while the big-bore FE 501 provides a lighter weight and more nimble ride than in the past.

Part of the beauty of the Husaberg concept is we end up with truly unique bike with out the common pains of doing so. Parts resources are secured as parts distribution is provided by Husaberg's parent company KTM in North America. If that's not enough, a majority of the parts are interchangeable with KTM.

Finally, the R&D and performance goals of the Husaberg are from the same vein as KTM. If you want a bike that will truly compete with a KTM, but don't want to get lost in the sea of orange, that bike is a Husaberg.