The Swedish motorcycle giant is ready to rule the dirt with a refreshed line-up of their already highly successful models. The improvements affect both 2-stroke and 4-stroke segments, five models in total. Husqvarna assures us that every model comes ‘equipped with the latest technology and electronic advancements, which ensures all riders can race in confidence and to the best of their ability.’
The Two-Stroke TC Gems
Both models share more or less the same upgrades. Most notably, the new EFI system, which now comes with two different engine maps and an upgraded ECU, which promises to provide that perfect air-to-fuel ratio for smoother power output. This new system is paired with an electric start (no kick-start for you old-school aficionados), and a new exhaust.
Packed in a chromium-molybdenum steel frame with a polyamide-reinforced aluminum subframe, the TC 125 and 250 aim to be light and rev happy. The suspension is a 48 mm WP XACT-USD 48 mm at the front, and WP XACT Monoshock with linkage at the rear. The front brake is a 260 mm disc, while the rear is 220 mm.
The only differences are in the engine. The TC 125 has a single-cylinder 125 cc engine which produces around 43 horsepower and has a six-speed manual transmission. The bigger, TC 250, has a single-cylinder 249 cc engine, which produces over 47 horsepower.
Husqvarna’s Flagship FC Models
If you think that two-stroke engines don’t have that much to offer, and you consider yourself to be more than just a weekend rider, the FC 250/350/450 are definitely up your alley. The improvements for 2024 are more than welcome, considering the competition. All three models got new lighter engines, placed closer to the middle of the bike improving the center of gravity with enough power and plenty of torque. The FC 250 has a single-cylinder 249cc engine that makes over 47 horsepower. The 350 has a 349cc engine that produces around 57 horsepower. The biggest in the crowd, the mighty 450, has a single-cylinder 449cc engine that makes an impressive 63 horsepower.
All models are now equipped with the same type of frame and sub-frame, suspension, and brake discs as their smaller siblings in the TC range. The exhaust features a flow-designed resonance chamber to keep the volume down and the power up. The new map select switch lets the riders choose how the engine responds and is also used to activate launch and traction control. The quickshifter, which is also operated via a map select switch, only works when you upshift and is active from a second gear only.
The Price Of These New Toys
Let’s start with the two-stroke gang. The TC 125 will cost you at least $8,199. Its bigger brother, the TC 250, starts at $9,249. The FC 250 starts at $10,299, the 350 is around $10,999, and the 450 is $11,199.
The problem is the competition. Their biggest rival is their orange sister, KTM, who pack near identical specs, and prices as well. The 2024 KTM 450 SX-F can be yours for $11,099, and the 250 SX for $9,149. For the most part it will come down to which color you prefer, and we know which bike we would rather swing a leg over.