There was a time in recent motorcycling history when it seemed that 2-stroke motorcycles were a dying breed. Growing international environmental regulations seemed destined to effectively squeeze the smoky, noisy (but incredibly fun and powerful) engines out of existence. It was a sad revelation for those of us who cut our teeth on the 2-strokes of the 70s and 80s.
If you ask any knowledgeable dirt rider to identify a motorcycle company that is strongly linked with 4-stroke dirt machines, Husaberg would be at the very top of the list. The Swedish company has never produced a 2-stroke motorcycle in its 22 year history. That is, until now. In 2011, Husaberg will offer 250 and 300cc competition enduros with 2-stroke engines. This is part of a genuine resurgence of 2-stroke technology in the dirt-bike world.
It is not expected that the new Husabergs will make it to American soil in 2011. However, if EPA concerns are addressed, we can only hope that the Swedish screamers will be seen stateside in the near future.
Here is the Husaberg factory video detailing the new models.
