Who: Chris Jones
What: 2010 Husaberg FE570
WHY I BOUGHT IT
As soon as I saw the new Husabergs in ADB I wanted one. I liked the unique approach taken by the engineers with the development of the 70-degree engine, along with the quality components that came standard such as WP suspension, Magura hydraulic clutch, Brembo brakes etc. At the time I had a 2008 KTM 530 and I love big four-strokes.
WHAT I DID TO IT
I weigh about 92kg and immediately found the springs a little soft front and rear, especially for high-speed, open riding. I fitted heavier ones front and rear. This would be the bike for my fifth Finke Desert race and this mod helped greatly. Early on the bike’s fuel pump was replaced under warranty but has run faultlessly ever since.
HOW DOES IT GO?
Exactly how you would expect. The FE570 really is an amazing engine. It can trickle around at low speed practicing trials type obstacles, singletrack is easily taken care of with very few gear changes, it will climb the steepest of hills effortlessly and still accelerate like a rocket up them in any gear and fast open fire trails are an absolute joy. With 15/48 gearing it has a top speed on the tar just shy of 180km/h. I find the bike comfortable and the overall package seems to work together to make it one of the most well made , solid and reliable big bores ever produced.
SHOULD I BUY ONE?
Yes and no. This is my 19th motorbike and I have been riding for 33 of my 38 years. It is a big, heavy bike that demands a lot of respect and throttle control. I love big four-strokes and over the years have adapted my riding style to suit them . Having said that, I have no doubt that I am faster on my girlfriend’s KTM 250 EXC-F when riding very tight singletrack, but every where else I love the Husaberg. For experienced riders who like the characteristics of large four-strokes the 570 has no peer. Longevity of this bike is a strong point. I’ve done 10,500km and the valve clearances are as new as is compression. The whole bike still feels new but it is very well looked after.
5 THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT CHRIS’S FE570
1 The bike is a gentle giant.
2 The bike chews through tyres quite regularly.
3 He will never sell it.
4 It is an extremely versatile bike.
5 It will wheelstand in sixth easily.
