Eicma 2008: Husqvarna TC 250, SM 450RR and SM 530RR

The Husqvarna stand at the Eicma show was, as per tradition, full of novelties, new tunings and models to be had.
One such presentation was the Concept SMQ, before closing with 2009 models: the new cross TC 250 and the Motard SM450RR, and the 530RR.
We’ll take a look at the new motards later, but in the meantime the smaller cross created much interest among Eicma visitors, who were keen to get a glimpse before the model enters a long period of tests prior to its appearance on the market.

The new 250 from Husqvarna will likely experience the same success as the previous models, with high quality technology and an incredible dry weight of 92 kg.
The engine is a single-cylinder, liquid cooled four-stroke, with four radial valves, bore and stroke at 79 by 50.
9, and a 249.
5cc engine that weighs only 22kg.
From the Husqvarna site, changes compared to the previous model are as follows:Compared with the TC 08 engine, the distance between the primary transmission and the centre is decreased by about 16% and the distance between the gearbox and the centre is reduced by about 7%.

Length, width and height have been decreased by 13%.
The engine breathes through four titanium radial valves driven by twin overhead combined chain/gear drive cams.
Wet multi-plate clutch, 7 driving plates – 6 driven.
Five-speed constant mesh gearbox.
Lubrication is taken care of by a dry sump system with rotor pump.
The engine and gearbox combined hold approx 0.
9l of oil.
The TC is kick-started.
The frame is completely new, lighter and has a redesigned geometry.
All the body panels have been redesigned so as to make the bike especially compact, slim and manageable.
The dry weight of the new Husqvarna is only 92 Kg thus adding to its appeal and performance.
The rear suspension has a new Soft Damp system with a new leverage ratio, progression curve and decreased frame load.
The chain tension effect has been optimised as has the traction.
The new aluminium swing arm features an asymmetric geometry extruded box aluminium centre housing the off-set shock absorber.
The suspension features new sealed pump Marzocchi 50 mm forks and a new Sachs shock absorber.
The brakes discs are of daisy (wave) design.
In addition to this model, Husqvarna wants to be included in the superbike category and a novelty for this year is the SM530RR which will line up with the 450 version.
It is a tribute to the world title recently won by Adrien Chareyre.
A new white livery is available here and while the front mud guard changes slightly in design, it is mostly similar to the smaller version.
From HusqvarnaThe bikes will offer a TIG welded frame with adjustable steering head just like on the official Team Husqvarna machine as well as a shortened, black anodised swingarm to improve traction and manoeuvrability.
The one-piece steering plate is made from anodised Ergal and the increased diameter steering pivot is in aluminium.
The RRs will have Alpina tubeless STS rims with a 120/70 x 16.
5 tyre at the front and a Dunlop 170/55 x 17 slick at the rear.
The brakes are the real news item for this year with a one-piece caliper and pump.
The SM 450 RR and SM 530 RR have “Wave” discs with a 310mm disc up front for a better compromise between adjustability and stopping power.
As regards suspension – up front there are 50 mm Marzocchi forks with a sealed cartridge unit and anodised black fork bottoms while, at the rear, there is a Sachs racing aluminium-bodied shock absorber and the frame is painted black.
The more powerful “race” engine is mated to a six-speed box derived from motocross versions as are the STM slipper clutch, the electric starter, the 41 mm Keihin carburettor and the special cams and pistons.
In collaboration with Arrow, Husqvarna engineers designed a tailor-made exhaust system for the SM530 RR.
Like that on the SM 450 RR, it is made from titanium and features twin silencers.
The heat shield is also made from titanium.
The twin-coloured anodised aluminium filler cap is new as are the anodised Ergal racing handlebar clamps.
These are one-piece items bearing the legendary Husqvarna name.
The motorcycles come supplied with spare sprockets and crown wheels and a set of steering rake sockets as well as a racing type side stand, racing brake and clutch levers and hand guards The machines are not homologated for use on the road and can only be ridden on a track.
For the 125 class, the WR and SM will only see changes in colour – black is now available, along with black wheels and new graphics.