With 2020 a huge year for KTM off-road, it was no surprise that Husqvarna jumped on the same train with massive updates to the Enduro Range.

The big news is again with the small-bore 2-stroke as the TE 150i gets the nod for TPI in 2020. So lets see what the story is with the mini White-Lightening. The bike we think most of NZ will be itching for.

“The 2020 TE 150i has been elevated to a whole new level. Husqvarna Motorcycles' innovative fuel injection technology finds its way into the lightest model in the range and the result is a combination of refined power and lightweight nimbleness that simply can't be ignored. The smooth power delivery, with the latest generation chassis and advanced WP suspension, offers a great mix of enduro-specific performance. Now, more than ever, with no need for jetting or pre-mixing fuel, combined with an electric start, the new TE 150i is quite simply the easiest way to master new trails.”

ENGINE

The TE 150i has inherited the same fuel-injected technology from the bigger TE 250i and 300i. This adds the convenience of a 4-stroke engine by eliminating the need to premix fuel or adjust jetting for altitude. The engine also uses specific shaft arrangements, which are designed to harness the rotating mass of the engine for nimble handling. This, among other developments, makes it a lightweight and compact engine providing usable enduro-specific power while maintaining the low-cost maintenance of a 2-stroke.

CYLINDER AND PISTON

The TE 150i features a cylinder with a 58 mm bore and an innovative power valve design. This allows the lively 150 cc engine to deliver controllable power throughout the RPM range. The piston is designed to perfectly match the contour of the combustion chamber, delivering the highest level of 2-stroke performance. Additionally, the cylinder features injectors mounted at the inlet positions, which deliver the fuel downwards into the transfer port, guaranteeing excellent fuel atomisation. This ensures more efficient fuel combustion, reduced fuel consumption and improved emissions.

CRANKCASE

Designed for minimal weight, the crankcases on the TE 150i engine feature a thin-wall design. To centralise mass, the shaft arrangements are precisely positioned to harness rotating masses at the ideal centre of gravity, while improved sealing is taken care of by the reed block which features optimised carbon fibre reed petals.

EXHAUST

Tailored specifically for each model using an innovative 3D design process, the header pipe on the TE 150i offers further improvements in geometry and performance. This allows for improved ground clearance, making the header pipe resistant to impact out on the trail. The muffler also features a new aluminium mounting bracket, new internals and less dense packing material for improved noise damping and weight saving.

FRAME

The new chrome-moly steel frame is expertly crafted using laser-cut, robot-welded, hydro-formed tubes, ensuring the highest level of precision and quality. While retaining the advanced geometry of its predecessor, it features an increase in longitudinal and torsional rigidity, for improved rider feedback, better energy absorption and increased stability. The cylinder head mountings are made of forged aluminium, further improving handling and comfort. The premium blue powder coated frame features standard frame protectors, providing extra durability.

COMPOSITE CARBON FIBRE SUBFRAME

The carbon composite subframe is unique to Husqvarna Motorcycles and showcases pioneering technology and innovation. Using 70% polyamide and 30% carbon fibre, the new 2-piece subframe saves 250 g for a total weight of just over 1 kg. Light, robust and now 50 mm longer, the new subframe delivers improved rigidity, handling and rider comfort.

OIL TANK AND PUMP

An electronic oil pump feeds vital 2-stroke oil into the engine. It is located just below the oil tank and feeds the oil via the throttle body, meaning the oil is only mixed with air at this stage. The pump is controlled by the EMS and delivers the optimal amount of oil according to the current RPM and engine load. The oil tank is connected to a filler hose which runs through the upper tube of the frame to a filler cap conveniently located for easy refills. The tank capacity is 0.7 l and is connected to a low-level sensor which illuminates when the tank needs refilling.

INTEGRATED COOLING AND RADIATORS

The radiators are expertly crafted using high-strength aluminium with CFD (computational fluid dynamics) to channel air through the radiators more efficiently. The cooling system is intelligently integrated into the frame, eliminating the need for additional hoses. New for 2020 is a 4 mm larger centre tube running through the frame. This reduces pressure at this point, allowing for a more consistent coolant flow. Additionally, the new radiators are mounted 12 mm lower, closer to the centre of gravity for improved handling agility. An optional radiator fan can be fitted and is available in the Husqvarna accessories catalogue.

WP XPLOR FORK

The WP Xplor 48 front fork is designed specifically for enduro riding. Its open cartridge layout has a spring in each leg with split damping functions. Compression damping in the left leg and rebound damping in the right. Adjustment is via easy-to-access clickers (30 clicks) on the top of each fork leg. For 2020, the standard preload adjusters allow for easier adjustment without the use of tools. The fork's updated mid-valve piston delivers more consistent damping, while a new setting allows the fork to operate higher in the stroke for improved rider feedback and bottoming resistance.

WP REAR SHOCK

Featuring a new main piston and updated base setting to match the new frame and front end, the WP XACT shock provides advanced damping characteristics to the new range. The compact and lightweight shock features a pressure balance inside, ensuring consistent damping and superior rider comfort. Using the same linkage progression found in the Husqvarna Motocross range, the rear end now sits lower, for improved control in extreme enduro conditions. The fully adjustable component delivers 300 mm rear wheel travel, as well as unrivalled traction, feeling and energy absorption.

WHEELS AND TYRES

Black high-strength alloy rims by D.I.D are coupled to CNC machined hubs using lightweight spokes and silver anodised aluminium nipples. Fitted to the wheels are Dunlop Geomax AT81 tires which offer superior grip on a wide variety of terrain.

MAGURA BRAKES

The Magura braking system is designed for high sensitivity, providing a modulated feel while delivering superior stopping power. GSK wave disks (260 mm disc front and 220 mm rear) complete the high-quality braking package for complete confidence.

BODYWORK

The TE 150i features new bodywork which clearly showcases Husqvarna Motorcycles' pioneering approach to offroad motorcycle design. The ergonomics are specifically tailored to deliver greater comfort and control. As a result of extensive testing, the contact points have been slimmed down, making shifting between riding positions easier and allowing the rider to flow with movement. Thanks to the improved packaging of the wiring harness, the new seat profile reduces the seat height by 10 mm and together with the new seat cover, delivers superior comfort and control in all conditions.

CNC MACHINED TRIPLE CLAMP

The 22 mm offset black-anodised CNC machined triple clamps offer premium quality and style standard on all Husqvarna enduro models. The triple clamps are expertly crafted using superior techniques and materials to provide high levels of quality and reliability. A 2-way handlebar adjustment is standard and allows for customisable ergonomics.

MAP SWITCH

By using the MAP SELECT SWITCH, the engine characteristics can be tailored to modify the power delivery according to rider preference, conditions and terrain. It has two settings which can be toggled on the fly, namely, Map 1, for standard and full power and Map 2, for softer power and delayed ignition timing for terrain with less traction.

THROTTLE BODY

The TE 150i uses a 39 mm throttle body which regulates the amount of air entering the engine via a butterfly operated by dual throttle cables connected to a new handlebar throttle assembly. 2-stroke oil is mixed with the air and enters the engine to lubricate the crankshaft, cylinder and piston. Additionally, a throttle position sensor (TPS) relays airflow data to the ECU which in turn calculates the amount of oil and fuel delivered to the engine while a bypass screw regulates the idling speed and a cold start device opens a bypass providing more air for cold starts.

ELECTRIC START AND WIRING HARNESS

All TE models come standard with an electric starter. The system uses a compact and lightweight Li-Ion battery which is 1 kg lighter than a conventional battery. With several years of experience of developing and perfecting electric starting, the proven reliability on the 2020 models is second to none, ensuring a quick and seamless start in any condition. Additionally, for 2020, an optimised wiring harness improves the packaging and concentrates all needed electrical components into a common area below the seat for easy accessibility.

ENGINE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

The TE 150i features an electronic control unit (ECU) which is responsible for a number of functions. The unit determines the ignition timing, the amount of fuel and oil injected into the cylinder and additionally, translates the information received from various sensors to adapt values and make corrections for automatic temperature and altitude compensation. This means the engine always runs at the optimum fuel/air mixture at any altitude.

THE REST OF THE TE RANGE

Husqvarna Motorcycles have launched their new range of 2020 TE and FE enduro models – a revamped line-up of competition machines that introduce key chassis, suspension and engine developments to allow riders to further extend their limits of enduro potential.
Here is the official info from Husqvarna…

Delivering high levels of dynamic performance, class-leading power across all engine sizes and equipped with updated WP suspension, all 2020 models benefit from comfortable ergonomics and progressive design. Thanks to a new frame, subframe, shock linkage and bodywork, updated fork and shock settings, and premium components as standard, the entire Husqvarna Motorcycles enduro range will allow riders of all skill levels to easily find seamless flow while riding offroad.

Primed for the unpredictability of enduro, the new generation MY20 enduro range combines unparalleled performance with advances in engine and chassis technology. Continuing the progression of offroad motorcycling, the new models offer improved handling, comfort and usability for both professional and amateur enduro riders.

CHASSIS UPDATES

Continuing the brand’s leading approach to innovation, the entirely new generation MY20 enduro models feature new frame, subframe, suspension, bodywork and engines. All frames feature increased longitudinal and torsional rigidity, which when added to the new, lighter composite carbon fibre subframe, ensures exceptional handling, stability and rider feedback. New aluminium cylinder head mountings further improve handling. Updated 48 mm WP XPLOR front forks and WP XACT shocks offer simple adjustment, more consistent damping and better resistance to bottoming. Superior performance, comfort and traction is further enhanced thanks to the linkage system that reduces seat height, ensuring riding over technical terrain has never been easier.

An all-new TE 150i now stands beside the pioneering TE 250i and TE 300i, sharing the same proven two-stroke fuel injection technology. Giving all the convenience of a modern four-stroke at a fraction of the weight, the machine mixes a nimble and lightweight chassis with a compact and powerful engine. Benefitting from an electric starter as standard, Husqvarna Motorcycles’ continuous two-stroke development ensures the TE 150i delivers maximum performance.

The entire four-stroke range features extensive engine upgrades for increased performance and rideability, with the FE 450 and FE 501 receiving a new cylinder head, as well as extensive revisions to the FE 250 and FE 350. Showcasing Husqvarna Motorcycles pioneering design direction, the MY20 enduro range features distinctive, new bodywork and graphics. Allowing riders to perform at the highest level for extended periods, in addition to the 10 mm reduction in seat height the slimmed-down bodywork delivers ergonomics that ensure easier movement on the bike and confidence inspiring riding positions.