Bikes 9 Sep 2021

Tested: 2022 Husqvarna FC 250

MotoOnline.com reviews the latest 2022 Husqvarna FC 250.

Words: Mike Sleeter

The 2022 Husqvarna FC 250 is based upon a proven race-winning package that is ridden by many to success, including the likes of RJ Hampshire in the US and Jed Beaton in the world championship. We ride it for our latest Tested piece.

It’s hard to pin-point a weakness on this immaculate machine for the new season, because firstly, it can do great things for riders of all skill levels and no doubt has the credentials to contest at the highest levels of competition.

Image: Cade Media.

You can find full tech information in Detailed. The track we used for testing was very grippy in the morning before progressively drying throughout the day, which provided a great opportunity to test the FC 250’s power delivery in varying conditions.

While the track was tacky, I could accelerate extremely hard and the power felt snappy and clean – really fun to ride, but I noticed the engine really came alive in the high rpm range.

The FC 250 does boast solid bottom-end power, however, to extract the most from the power department you’ve really got to reach that top-end and ride it to that level. That’s where you will really begin to appreciate all that this bike can deliver.

Image: Cade Media.

Its dual map setting switch is a nice edition, although I only used the fastest mode as I didn’t want to slow down. For me, in the conditions we were riding in, I was enjoying trying to get the absolute maximum from this bike because that’s what the delivery asks for.

When there is a proven chassis such as the chromium molybdenum steel frame the FC 250 boasts, it can be almost easier to go backward than forward if the correct progression isn’t made. As a result, to see Husqvarna make specific changes, I was comfortable it would be an improvement.

And it is. The chassis in the 2022 Husqvarna FC 250 is incredibly balanced and, coupled with the refined WP Suspension air-fork settings, the bike has taken a step forward in terms of its handling.

While I was comfortable and confident on the bike in both tacky and dry conditions, I did find the shock could use a little more comfort at times. That said, this was off-set by the stability and traction it provides, so it’s a balancing act there.

Image: Cade Media.

Features standard on the FC 250 such as ProTaper handlebars, Brembo brakes – which you can’t fault, the hydraulic clutch and Dunlop MX33 tyres provide it with an advantage straight out of the box. All of these inspire increased confidence when out on track.

Overall, I feel the Husqvarna FC 250 is a competitive package, completed with the small improvements that make it a step forward over last year’s bike. It’s the premium option in the KTM Group line and that’s evident in its presentation and performance.

For someone like myself who frequently rides a 450, to jump on and instantly feel comfortable and at speed is a true testament to the quality of this motorcycle. In my opinion, I believe it’s a machine that could suit almost any rider and that’s not easy to achieve.

Specifications

Engine type: 249.9cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, four-stroke
Bore/stroke: 78×52.3mm
Transmission: Five-speed
Starter: Electric
Clutch: Brembo hydraulic
Traction control: Yes
Launch control: Yes
Front suspension: WP Xact 48mm adjustable air fork
Rear suspension: WP Xact shock
Front brake: Brembo two-piston caliper, 260mm disc
Rear brake: Brembo one-piston caliper, 220mm disc
Tires: Dunlop Geomax MX33
Weight: 230 pounds
Price: $9499
Availability: Out now
Further information: www.husqvarna-motorcycles.com

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