Husqvarna FE 501S

The FE 501 S is the pinnacle of enduro and now, with the Street legal version, Husqvarna greatly broadens its appeal by offering an unbeatable combination of extreme power, sharp handling and go-anywhere versatility. Exhilarating power in its utmost definition is under the command of the throttle grip thanks to the super-powerful, yet tractable and torquey SOHC engine. It has been tuned to reliably deliver maximum performance and features the most advanced standard equipment such as electric starting, a smooth 6-speed gearbox with hydraulic clutch and class-leading Brembo brakes.

The 510.4cc SOHC engine of the FE 501 S has a 95mm bore and 72mm stroke. It has been developed specifically for Enduro riding in extreme conditions and is not only easy to use, torquey and powerful, but also efficient and reliable. The compact layout greatly benefits the overall packaging of the engine/chassis combination. The die-cast production procedure allows for thinner wall thickness compared to other production processes, reducing weight while maintaining strength. The cylinder head is characterised by a single overhead cam that actuates two lightweight titanium intake valves and two steel exhaust valves. The König bridge-box-type piston is closely related to the FC 450’s piston in order to lower oil consumption and optimise performance. Vibrations are kept to a minimum thanks to the multifunctional counter balance shaft which is situated on the right side of the engine, for a compact and efficient design, cancelling inertia forces and simultaneously driving the water pump and timing chain.

The crankshaft and lightweight con rod are made by Pankl from high-tensile strength steel and have been specifically designed to withstand the high power output and torque of the FE 501 S, without sacrificing durability and long service intervals (135 hours before changing con rod, con rod bearing and crank pin). That is why the crankshafts have a plain big end bearing and two force-fitted shells that run directly on the crank pin.

The engine features Keihin electronic fuel injection and a 42mm throttle body for great throttle response and engine performance that is optimised for tough Enduro riding conditions.

The entire 4-stroke Enduro range features a reliable electric starter and offer the possibility to retro-fit a kick-starter. Easy starting in any situation.
Enduro riding requires maximum feedback from the bike in rough terrain, on rocks and in slippery conditions. Precisely engineered flex in the frame can greatly improve rider confidence, allowing for increased speed and improved times. To achieve these goals, the engineers designed the lightweight chromium molybdenum frame with precise longitudinal flex that helps absorb impacts from the rear wheel, working together with the suspension and giving the rider greater feedback. The torsional rigidity has been calibrated to maximise sharp handling, with lightning fast turn-in and exceptional stability even on the roughest special tests.

The lightweight, three-piece polyamide rear subframe has been reinforced with an additional screw on the airbox side that improves the fitment between the left subframe arm and the airbox. The improved seal guarantees better performance and durability. The polyamide subframe is more flexible than a traditional aluminium rear subframe. Combined with the longitudinal flex of the frame and the rear linkage system, this gives riders a more comfortable and confidence-inspiring feeling on the bike, allowing them to push the limits in every condition and on any terrain. The inherent characteristics of the composite subframe allow the engineers to have unlimited opportunities of integrating features such as the airbox, electronics and rear grab handle.

The one-piece construction of the swingarm guarantees consistent performance by eliminating welding points. The engineers designed specific flex characteristics that optimise traction while feeding precise information to the rider, instilling confidence and improving overall performance. Strong but light, the beautifully styled aluminium cast swingarm provides perfect stability and safety.

Black DID rims and CNC machined hubs mated to silver anodised nipples add an aggressive and modern look to the newly designed Husqvarna Enduro range. World Championship level performance is guaranteed by Michelin Enduro Competition tyres. The wheels are kept firmly under control thanks to maximum feeling in extreme situations combined with amazing stopping power of the latest generation of Brembo brakes. Ergonomically perfect controls allow the rider to accurately gauge braking power to the 260mm and 220mm wave discs at the front and rear respectively.
The WP 4CS closed cartridge 48mm front fork represents the pinnacle of suspension technology. The 4 chamber system unites the performance of a closed cartridge fork with the simplicity of an open cartridge fork and also has the benefit of additional weight reduction of the overall system. It provides a decisive advantage in terms of responsiveness constant damping precision and handling, while maintaining plushness and rider comfort. Matched with CNC machined black triple clamps, the 4CS forks ensure exceptional handling and feel of the front end. Riders of all performance levels can adapt the setup of the fork for different terrain and conditions by changing clicker settings with a simple twist of a dial, obtaining the best performance in terms of rebound and compression damping settings.

WP designed the high performance DCC (Dual Compression Control) rear shock with the aim of guaranteeing excellent damping characteristics to ensure maximum feedback as well as rider comfort. The shock is completely adjustable for rebound and high/low speed compression damping, allowing riders to tailor the behaviour according to conditions and preference.

A rear linkage system was specially developed for the Husqvarna Enduro line-up. It has excellent characteristics in fast and flowing sections, and excels on steep downhills thanks to the lower rear end feel. It offers great rider comfort in all situations and has great progressiveness in extremely rocky and bumpy sections. The linkage system also offers vast possibilities to tailor the behaviour of the rear end by changing the length of the linkage arms.

The black anodised CNC machined triple clamps have been revised for MY15. The bottom clamp has been redesigned in order to mount the same front fender as the Motocross models, providing improved stability and mounting of the front fender. The stylish triple clamps combine looks with function and deliver maximum feedback to the rider under braking, in rough terrain and on jumps, relaying accurate information on the behaviour of the front end in every situation, increasing rider confidence. The R&D department’s efforts were focused on ensuring uniform clamping of the fork legs in order to distribute the forces evenly, maintaining the leg shape, and thus proper damping along the entire stroke.

A new front mask on the MY15 Enduro bikes evolves the Husqvarna look and houses a new front headlamp. The front fender is also new and is the same as the Motocross fender, for easier mounting. The slim and stylish lines of the side panels and radiator shrouds allow for optimal movement while riding, resulting in superior control, and faster and safer riding.

The standard equipment levels on the FE 501 S are astonishing. Only top-of-the-line products will do, such as the Neken handlebar, handguards and electric starter. For the die hard enthusiasts, riding pleasure is further enhanced by a complete range of Husky Power accessories.

The harder and more durable seat cover improves grip and also gives the seat a firmer feel, improving comfort and feeling. The handguards now feature a new improved compound of the two-component mould for better impact resistance.