New 2024 Husqvarna FE 501W

The FE 501w engine benefits from advanced engineering techniques to deliver maximum performance. The engine is tilted two degrees backwards for significantly improved anti-squat behavior from the chassis, which further aids the centralization of mass for exceptional overall handling. Servicing the FE 501w engine was a key focus during the design process with the addition of service markers on the engine cases to simplify maintenance.

The SOHC cylinder head is incredibly compact with the camshaft positioned as close to the centre of gravity as possible. A durable fine-punched cam chain and Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coated rocker arm offers optimal efficiency and reliability while a single oil spray jet guarantees effective cooling.

The lightweight aluminium cylinder is undoubtedly an engineering masterpiece with a 95 mm bore and a stroke of 72 mm. Inside, the forged CP bridged-box-type piston features anodised annular grooves for added durability and extended service intervals. The compression ratio is 12.75:1.

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 centralise engine mass, the shaft arrangements are precisely positioned to harness rotating masses at the ideal centre of gravity.

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 highlights its premium quality and is an important component in making the new "w" model 50-state off-highway compliant, along with a USFS-approved spark arrestor.

The proven chromium molybdenum steel frame is refined for 2024. A new shock mounting, which is no longer connected to the main tube, significantly improves the anti-squat behavior of the chassis. With optimized wall thickness in high-stress areas improving reliability, the frame continues to offer advanced geometries and flex characteristics aimed at providing unparalleled rider feedback, energy absorption, and straight-line stability. The frame is complete with a premium metallic blue powder coating with redesigned standard frame protectors offering improved grip in all conditions. Additionally, the redesigned and robust skid plate offers exceptional frame and engine protection.

Made from 60% polyamide and 40% aluminum, the new 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 significantly improved reliability, with the upper section made from injection-molded polyamide to enable specific flex characteristics.

The new hollow die-cast aluminium swingarm is manufactured from a single piece of aluminium using an improved casting process for optimal stiffness and a 190 g weight reduction. In order to optimise and match the flex characteristics of the new frame, a new 22 mm rear axle is fitted. Additionally, the chain guard and chain slider have been completely redesigned for improved durability with the chain guard made with a rounder profile to prevent catching on external objects.

Adorned with clean, Swedish-inspired graphics, the bodywork offers advanced ergonomics allowing riders to perform at their best for extended periods of time. Adapted after countless hours of testing, the contact points and surfaces in the rider triangle offer exceptional comfort on the motorcycle. A flat seat profile offers unrestricted movement with a 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 quickly and easily.

Manufactured from high-strength aluminium, the radiators are designed using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to channel air in the most effective way. A large centre tube channels coolant through the frame to reduce pressure at this point in the system for a more consistent flow while an internal thermostat further enhances reliability.

Each of Husqvarna Motorcycles' enduro machines are now equipped with WP XACT Closed Cartridge spring forks. Designed and developed for the rigours of enduro riding, the forks offer consistent performance thanks to the closed cartridge spring design, which optimises oil flow and prevents it from foaming. The addition of a new hydrostop, effective in the last 68 mm of travel, is highly effective on heavy landings to maintain maximum 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.

The all-new WP XACT rear shock is 100 g lighter and 15 mm shorter than its predecessor, yet the travel remains unchanged at 300 mm. With 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 SKF seals, and a revised linkage system, consistent damping, comfort, and traction is guaranteed.

The highest level of performance is guaranteed with the latest BRAKTEC braking systems which are specifically designed for enduro riding. New calipers, new brake pads, new levers, and new brake lines together with the GSK wave discs (260 mm disc front and 220 mm rear) result in a sensitive and progressive feel ensuring enhanced control in all conditions.

The high-quality BRAKTEC clutch system guarantees even wear, reliability, and near maintenance-free operation. In addition, the lever design is updated providing a comfortable feeling in every condition. Play is constantly compensated so that the pressure point and function of the clutch remain identical in cold or hot conditions, as well as over time.

The black-anodized, CNC-machined triple clamps offer premium quality as standard on all Husqvarna enduro models. They have a carefully calculated 22 mm offset and are designed to provide the perfect harmony between the frame dynamics and fork settings. Expertly crafted using superior techniques and materials, they provide the highest levels of quality and reliability. The redesigned handlebar clamp has a larger contact area with the ProTaper bars for reduced twisting in the event of a crash, and offers two mounting options for customisable ergonomics.

Using state-of-the-art computational fluid dynamics, the new footrests are slightly larger to improve control. Additionally, the mounting position for the footrests on the new frame brings them inwards, which makes them less susceptible to catching on the ground through deep ruts.

The FE 501w 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.

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.