Words: Ryan Marmont

Husqvarna’s range of TC two-stroke motocross bikes has become a popular choice amongst riders and racers globally in recent years, and for 2019, the TC 125 and TC 250 have received a complete overhaul, as has the entire Husqvarna motocross range, which has only boosted an already impressive package. MotoOnline.com.au recently had the opportunity the test both two-strokes, with former Australian MX2 champion Ryan Marmont at the bars.

Where we rode:
Thanks to Husqvarna Motorcycles Australia, we were able to sample the brand’s fleet of 2019 motocross bikes at Appin in New South Wales – the same venue that hosted the opening round of the Pirelli MX Nationals. The practice track is a popular favourite amongst local riders and national pros, mainly due to its diverse offering of surfaces and obstacles. A mix of hard-packed sections, rutted turns and sizeable jumps proved to be the perfect testing ground for the 2019 Husqvarna two-strokes.

Technical features:
One of the biggest changes amongst the 2019 fleet of Husqvarna motocross bikes, and particularly the TC 125 and TC 250, is the frame. This year’s edition features increased stiffness, for improved rider feedback, advanced energy absorption and exceptional straight-line stability. Adding to that, and unique to Husqvarna, is a composite subframe, made up of 70 percent polyamide and 30 percent carbon fibre. The new two-piece subframe design adds a further weight saving of 250g for 2019. The chassis been paired up with the latest suspension package, being the WP AER 48 and WP DCC shock. In the engine, both bikes utilise a lightweight powerplant that offers architectural advancements, aimed at centralising rotating masses and reducing vibration, while delivering the highest level of performance in its class. The TC 250 also uses an innovative laterally mounted counter balancer shaft that significantly reduces engine vibration, resulting in a smoother and more comfortable ride. As always, both bikes come standard with a selection of premium components, such as a Magura hydraulic clutch, Brembo brakes, and CNC machined triple clamps.

Chassis feedback:
The way you sit on the TC 125, it has an exceptional seating position, which was a positive first impression. I found it to help with being more stable at the front-end coming into turns, and on the exit, the Husqvarna just has a really good feeling around the mid-to-exit of the corner. I could really feel that wherever I would sit into it – especially with the gripper seat it has – I didn’t feel myself drifting on the bike itself exiting turns. The chassis has great balance, right from entry of turns through to the exit. The TC 250 boasts a similar feeling to 125cc, and the weight of the bikes – they’re both so light, so weight isn’t an issue. On the 250cc, we ran standard air pressure in the forks, and around the Appin track, it felt really, really good. We set the sag, and the balance of the bike was great. The combination of the WP AER 48 and WP DCC shock really complimented each other, making for a comforting suspension package.

Motor characteristics:
The TC 125 put a smile on my face – I enjoyed riding it a lot. The power that 125cc motor can produce is really strong. I’m not heaviest of guys – I’m only 70kg – but I had no problem in getting the 125cc out of the corners. In the past, 125cc’s have forced you to get your gears changes right in the powerband, but the amount of torque that TC 125 has made it a blast to ride. It was a lot of fun. With the 250cc – I’ve done a fair bit of riding on them – and I think TC 250 needs a little bit of fine tuning in the jetting department. I found it was a little too rich for our conditions and fuel, but with some minor changes, you can definitely get it perfect. The TC 250 has a really strong mid-range power delivery – it’s nice, strong, and has a good delivery on it.

Final thoughts:
I think the TC 125 has had some brilliant changes made to it for 2019 – that bike was just a pleasure to ride straight out of the box. The TC 250 is also a great, and with a few little adjustments to customise to your liking with the new features, being the two stages in the ignition, the three power-valve options and some jetting changes, that bike will be spot on for what you need to have a fun and competitive time on a dirt bike. Add in the great suspension and chassis package, plus the array of quality of componentry, you really have yourself an exceptional two-stroke motocross bike.

Vital specifications

Engine type: Liquid-cooled, two-stroke, single cylinder
Capacity: 124.8cc (TC 125)/249cc (TC 250)
Bore/stroke: 54mm x 54.5mm (TC 125)/66.4mm x 72mm (TC 250)
Transmission: Six-speed (TC 125)/Five-speed (TC 250)
Seat height: 950mm
Weight: 87.5kg (TC 125)/96kg (TC 250)
Fuel capacity: 8l
Price: $10,995 (TC 125)/$11,995 (TC 250)
More details: www.husqvarna-motorcycles.com/au