BIKES: 2013 Husqvarna TC250R First Ride

New Models

BIKES: 2013 Husqvarna TC250R First Ride

Husqvarna delivers its 2013 TC250R with significant engine updates and a class-leading MSRP to better challenge the 250 Motocross field.

Frankie Garcia | http://motorcycleusa.com | Posted February 12, 2013 Eugene, OR

A stiffer crank has been introduced to the bottom end of the 2013 Husqvarna TC250R for added performance and reliability to meet the stresses of the new top end. (Photo: Husqvarna)

Husky takes aim at the 250 motocross class with the release of the revamped 2013 Husqvarna TC250R. With a number of updates to the engine including new valves, piston and crankshaft plus a lowest in-class $7,199 MSRP the new TC250R is positioned to make its presence known in the 250-class. We took the opportunity to test its mettle in the dirt and under the sun at Lake Elsinore Motorsports Park during a recent press unveiling held by Husqvarna, USA.

In recent years, Husqvarna motorcycles have produced motorcycles with impressive handling characteristics but they’ve been a bit under-powered. Last year, BMW tasked its former Formula 1 engineers with getting the quarter-liter racer up to speed and they responded with the introduction of the Red Head engine and an all new chassis. The new and improved TC250R enjoyed immediate success overseas with Alex Lupino piloting the machine to the 2012 Italian Motocross Championship MX2 title.

For 2013, Husqvarna continues to further refine the TC250R. The 249.5cc power plant receives an upgraded Keihin Electronic Fuel Injection system and capacitor, creating a stronger ignition spark for more efficient combustion. A stiffer crankshaft compliments the added top-end performance upgrades while improving reliability. A magnetic oil sump plug was added to help keep metal shavings from damaging the engine while the airbox and intake structure have been altered to work with the new EFI.

The Red Head performance upgrades put into play in 2012 were a big leap forward for the brand, but Husqvarna has further closed the performance gap on its Japanese competition for 2013 with 10% larger intake valves (increased from 31mm to 32.5mm) coupled with longer valve lift for quicker air and fuel flow along with F1-derived piston and cylinder technology. Cooling down the TC250R is a pair of stronger, more efficient WP radiators.

For 2013 the chassis remains the same since it received a complete overhaul in 2012. Husqvarna styling has been sleek and cool for a while now, but the 2013 TC250R received a fresh set of in-mold plastic shroud graphics. A new bar pad and a softer compound domino grip set round out the remaining cosmetic changes. Where Husqvarna sets itself apart is through an array of top-shelf components including an Akrapovic exhaust, Brembo brakes, Brembo hydraulic clutch, Excel rims, Braking wave rotors plus Regina chain and sprockets are all standard equipment on the TC250R.

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