Husqvarna 2008 supermoto model launch

Michael Neeves, Senior Road Tester, is out in Spain testing the 2008 Husqvarna Supermoto range at a cart track in Benidorm and here’s his first impressions.

“The big news is their new SM510R which is a Supermoto race replica. For the first time it has fuel injection and also a new frame, chassis components, engine tweaks and body work changes.

“Out on the cart track honestly this bike is more than I know what to do with, although it’s not intimidating to ride, it has amazing brakes and is light, stiff and agile. On the road where you can really open it up I would imagine the SM510R would be a complete weapon.

I’ve also ridden the SM610 which is a slightly softer more road going Supermoto, it’s still good round the track but it’s softer all round so would make an easier bike to live with day to day.

Finally I’ve ridden the SM450RR which is a replica of last year’s world championship winning factory bike, there are only a few of these coming into the country and unfortunately they are already all sold out.

This is a shame because this is epic; it has a slipper clutch, slicks, up-rated brakes, less weight, more power and is just incredible to ride. This is the Desmosedici of the Supermoto world.”

You’ll be able to read Michael’s full test report in March 19 issue of Motorcycle News.