Price: $7499
Competitors: Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS, Honda XR650L, Kawasaki KLR650
Powertrain: 652-cc single-cylinder, 58 hp; 6-speed manual, RWD
EPA Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 55 mpg (combined)
What's New: Husqvarna's TR650 is an all-new global motorcycle that capitalizes on the booming dual-purpose segment. Available in two variants?the off-road $6999 Terra and the street-biased $7499 Strada?these minimalist rides are built around a 652-cc engine sourced from the BMW G650GS and modified for punchier performance. The Chinese-built single-cylinder workhorse features a lighter piston, a modified fuel injection management system, a higher compression ratio, larger valves, and a modified cam profile which helps boost output to 58 hp, a 10 hp increase.
Tech Tidbit: Apart from the standard antilock brakes, which can be disabled, and the onboard digital thermometer, which displays ambient temperature in half-degree increments, the TR650 Strada is delightfully free of complicated tech. The most effective engineering trick up this motorcycle's sleeve is the positioning of its 3.57-gallon fuel tank. Recessed well below the external fuel filler, this mass-centralized reservoir maximizes agility and nimbleness, making the Husqvarna feel even more lithe than its already slim curb weight of 410 pounds might suggest.
Driving Character: Once you've hurtled yourself atop its seriously tall saddle (which sits 33.8 inches above ground), the Husqvarna TR650 Terra offers an uncluttered perspective from the cockpit. Apart from the small bikini fairing and compact digital and analog instrument panel, visual distractions are minimal. Between your legs the liquid-cooled single-cylinder powerplant cranks slowly to life with an even pulse, but once power is transferred to the rear wheel via a low-effort clutch lever, everything about this bike flows intuitively.
Power delivery is steady but particularly meaty in the middle range of the powerband, and handling feels responsive but stable, thanks to its generous trail measurement of 3.98 inches and wispy curb weight. The standard antilock brakes betray their presence via perceptible pulses at the foot and hand levers, but the presence of the electronic aids are welcome, especially because a generous dose of rear-brake pressure will alleviate considerable front-brake dive. While more factory preload at the nonadjustable forks would reduce the aforementioned dive, at least the 7.5 inches of suspension travel and plush ride help the Husqvarna glide over pothole-ridden city streets.
Favorite Detail: Most bikes in this segment offer essentially the same stripped-down functionality we like about the Husqvarna TR650. But what many competitors lack is brand heritage that goes back to the days when Steve McQueen rode Huskies competitively under the pseudonym Harvey Mushman. It's that sort of history that makes the TR650 a standout in the dual-purpose crowd.
Driver's Grievance: While the offroad-focused Terra model has an exceptionally tall saddle (at 34.4 inches), even the road-biased Strada variation of the TR650 repels those of shorter inseams with its 33.8-inch seat height. Riders might also become annoyed by the iffy fit of some of the body panels and the stiff seat, which can get tiresome on longer rides.
Bottom Line: You won't be in any danger of setting land-speed records or out-cornering crotch rockets aboard the Husky TR650 Strada. But thanks to its torquey engine and 7.5 inches of suspension travel, this $7500 bike is an effective and economical urban runabout. Add from the lengthy list of available accessories, including heated grips and soft saddlebags, and you've suddenly got yourself one compelling, 55-mpg case against commuting in a cage.
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