Words: Ryan Marmont

Husqvarna has launched an all-new line-up of motocross models for 2016, introduced to the international press at Budds Creek late last week in the US. MotoOnline.com.au had the privilege of testing the next-gen models, FC 450, 350 and 250, as well as the TC 125.

One of the first things that I noticed about these bikes is just how much Husqvarna have focused on stripping weight. Not only has this helped by making the bike faster, it’s also made the bikes handle better and give the rider a much better feeling.

Husqvarna has made a total weight saving on the chassis of 3.5kg, including the introduction of a unique carbon fibre sub-frame, which alone is a saving of 1.4kg.

However it’s not just carbon fibre alone, as engineers found that carbon fibre alone was too rigid, so to make it work Husqvarna came up with a sub-frame made up of carbon fibre and plastic infused together – giving it both flex and strength. It’s also been redesigned to make the rear-end sit lower and more narrow,

The frame on the 2016 Husqvarna models has had some major changes, now 6mm wider and 2mm lower, plus they have also shaved 380g of weight off it. These revisions allow the frame to flex more when riding.

Also the new frame features a footpeg mount that prevents dirt and mud from building up in it when the bike is lent over in ruts.

There’s also a re-designed swingarm, which is stiffer and improves traction, and they have still managed to shave 250g of weight from it.

In 2016 Husqvarna has stuck with the WP 4CS forks. In the previous models there was some feedback from riders not really enjoying the feeling, so WP has responded to this by revising the fork setting. It has a new mid-valve piston and is a longer fork.

Meanwhile a new shorter and lighter shock has been developed, 12mm shorter and 500g lighter, combined with a new linkage set-up. The rear travel is now 300mm and this has helped the balance of the bikes.

The CNC machined triple clamps feature rubber-mounted clamps to help with vibration through the handlebars. Pro Taper handlebars are now standard on all the models, giving the Husqvarnas a great, comfortable riding position.

ODI lock-on grips have also been added to the package, which are a great design with no mess of that factory glue left on your bike in between grip changes.

A new 44mm throttle body has eliminated the linkage that attaches to the butterfly, allowing the cables to attach directly to the shaft and resulting in a more direct feeling when twisting the throttle.

A Magura hydraulic clutch system has replaced the Brembo as seen in the previous model. This is something that I had to get the feeling for, but once I got the feeling for where the clutch engages I had no problem with it at all.

The brakes however are still Brembo, but now use GSK discs, giving the brakes a better feeling with greater control. It’s an impressive combination that inspires confidence.

As in previous model years, the Husqvarna motocross range features a standard handlebar map switch. For 2016 the map switch now also activates launch control.

With the engine at idle, launch control is engaged by switching once between the selected map and the alternative map, and then back again.

When the fuel injection LED flashes, launch control is engaged, limiting the amount of power to the rear wheel for approximately two seconds, which is just enough to try keep the front wheel on the ground.

With two different maps built into the ECU I was finding myself swapping between maps as the track changed throughout the day. Both maps still produce the same amount of power, but it’s the way the power is delivered that changes – one map being a smooth delivery and the other more aggressive.

The airbox has been completely redesigned with no need of any tools to change the air filter, with the addition of a new Twin Air filter and new filter cage. It is now a safe and more accurate filter installation.

On top of all that, the bodywork is a completely new look for Husqvarna, the ergonomics have been revised giving the bike an improved and more agile feeling on the track, not to mention that they look trick also. Plus, there’s plenty of grip with a new seat cover.

Stay tuned to MotoOnline.com.au for the individual bike reviews over the coming weeks and my more specific thoughts on how the 2016 Husqvarna motocross range feels on track.