Driving report: Husqvarna TE 310, model 2009

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Driving report: Husqvarna TE 310, model 2009

Little surprise

With a 310 cc variant, Husqvarna offers an alternative engine in the 450cc sport enduro class. So much in advance: The new little one surprises.

Downsizing, the minimization of the dimensions while increasing efficiency, is currently the trend in the development departments of the automotive industry. And obviously not just there. Because parallel to the revival of the 400 cm³ version in the sport enduro model range from KTM (MOTORRAD 16/2008) announced for the 2009 season, Husqvarna is now also presenting a reduced-displacement model for the so-called E2 class, which is open to 450 cm³: the TE 310 Technically, the only difference between the new little one and the sister model TE 250 is that it has a larger bore (83 instead of 76 millimeters). The point of the exercise: Lower oscillating masses compared to the 450 series are intended to improve the smooth running of the engine and handling.

Basically, this is not a new recipe. However, the dimensions of the change in character in the case of the TE 310 are astonishing. In comparison with the TE 450 ?? which shares the engine housing, the Mikuni injection and the chassis with all TE models ?? the 310 appears to be ten kilograms lighter, and can be bent into tight turns much more effortlessly. The lower engine reactions also contribute to the clearly more nimble handling. Above all, the suspension, which acts more freely under the weaker chain hoist of the TE 310, irons acceleration waves in a noticeably more sensitive manner than the full-size 450. One of the most important criteria of a competitive enduro, the easily controllable yet powerful acceleration from the lower engine speed, is mastered by the 310 engine with flying colors despite the lack of displacement. Decisively more powerful than the TE 250, the short-stroke builds plenty of grip on slippery and technically demanding terrain, making it child’s play, the estimated 42 HP ?? Husqvarna traditionally does without performance data ?? to use.

On top of that, the small one can be turned higher than its 450 sister and saves the pilot the vibrations in the upper speed range that are clearly noticeable in the large engine. On the subject of revs: While the main competitors rely on lightweight titanium valves, Husqvarna is upgrading the exhaust side to steel valves on the 2009 models. These are less sensitive to dirt sucked in than their softer titanium counterparts. The heavy-duty steel parts do not noticeably detract from the 310’s ease of turning. Of course, Husqvarna has not found the perfect solution for everyone with the 310 model. Experienced pilots appreciate the tractor-like grip of the 450s at the lowest engine speeds in difficult terrain just as much as the six to eight additional horsepower on the motocross track. But at the amateur level, the TE 310 (list price including ancillary costs: 8899 euros) is clearly the more manageable, refined, more stamina-friendly and therefore better sport enduro in this class.

What’s new at Husqvarna in 2009?

The Husqvarna engineers refrain from spectacular changes in the 2009 models. The frame, which has been lightened by one kilogram, and the use of comparatively less wear-resistant steel instead of titanium exhaust valves remain the most important technical changes to the four four-stroke enduro models (TE 250, TE 310, TE 450, TE 510). Newly designed lamp masks, scaled-down instruments and black rims spice up the look of the Italian off-roaders.

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