Husqvarna unveils 2012 TE dual-sport bikes
Lowered suspension
shortens 250 seat height
Dirt-aggressive and street-legal, Husqvarna’s re-vamped 2012 TE dual-purpose bikes are ready to invade the U.S.
All four TE models receive new reinforced all-black chromoly frames, silver rims and fresh styling (shared changes with the rest of the 2012 Husqvarna range). Key features also include suspension upgrades and the new TE250 “Low.” The 48mm open-cartridge Kayaba fork is stiffened with revised damping for a comfortable and capable ride on road and trail. The TE250 and TE310 are both also upgraded to the Kayaba shock.
New in distinguishing the 250 from its larger TE310 sibling is a lower seat height. The Kayaba fork and shock on the TE250 are both shortened, resulting in a more user-friendly seat height approximately 50mm lower than last year’s. The “inseam challenged” will also appreciate the slightly lower saddle height on the 449 and 511 TE, both of which receive a 4mm shorter Kayaba shock. Designed specifically to complement the CTS (Coaxial Traction System), the upgraded rear suspension improves the handling characteristic and overall balance of the 449 and 511 chassis. On the front end, the fork valving is more aggressive for even better off-road performance.
The focus on the 2012 TE449 and TE511 was to make them more approachable all around, so along with a shorter seat height and refined suspension, the chassis is also updated with a streamlined wiring harness and a sleeker, one-piece rear fender. The TE449 and 511 also run cooler than ever thanks to the addition of high-performance WP radiators.
The TE250 and TE310 share a number of upgrades, including improved exhaust and new generation frames. In striking red and black color scheme, the smaller bore TE models (250 and 310) are outfitted with more rigid frames, which complement the revised suspension, and pair stability with responsiveness for a confidence-inspiring ride. New exhaust systems deliver improved performance across the board, polishing up the power delivery on the 250 and 310 TE motorcycles.
Even with the long list of choice improvements for 2012, the TE line remains 50-state street legal.
