FE650 2005 Test Ride

Hi Bergers,

Had about 20 mins on one on Saturday in some tight single track and more open trails. Wonderful, one is in my future for sure. The same as my 501, only more of it, power, GRUNT, steering, fabulous.

Also got to ride a CRF450X and compared to my old 98 501 it wouldn't steer, no bottom end and no top end to speak of. Disappointing after all the hype. After I crashed it beacuse I got no feedback from the front I parked it. I rarely crash.

I thought the 650 might be a bit much, but after riding it, how can too much of a good thing be too much?

Steve
(dreaming of 650)

Hi Satex,

I'm sure with time and setup the steering issues I experienced would be resolved. I've certainly enjoyed my limited time on the MX version on an MX track. The X I rode just didn't work for me on the day and in the bush environment it was a lot of work to keep on the boil whereas my old 501 and the 650 are just a matter of a little clutch and throtle. I even had to make sure I wasn't on the 250 which was also available for testing. The 450X was a dealer demonstrator and had a Big Gun pipe and was supposedly jetted to suit. It was also very cramped which didn't help. My 501 is generally considered the roomiest bike anyone has ridden, lowered, rearset pegs, high seat and tall, raised bars.

You can check my gallery for details.
http://www.husaberg.org/modules.php?set ... _album.php

Incidentally the 650 was stone stock except for a layer of about 1.5mm rubber sheet wrapping the bars in the clamps. This was done by the owner to attempt to quell the vibes. According to him it made a huge difference. It was certainly smoother and more refined than my 501, with out losing that essential 'Bergness'. I'd still need to raise the seat and bars, but stock is was heaps roomier than the Honda.

A few other had a play on the 650 on the day as well and the praise was uniform, even from committed WR250 riders. They just couldn't believe how controllable so much GRUNT was.

Huskyfatman, enjoy your new ride

Cheers
Steve