The Husqvarna SM 450 R and SM 510 R have seen some quite radical changes reflecting the experience gained from wins on world championship supermotard tracks.


Husqvarna engineers concentrated on the frame to make both models even lighter and easier to handle. To achieve this, the frame is of a completely new design with new levels of rigidity and settings for dealing with power that optimise handling and give the rider a much better feel for the bike. The frame is also one kilo lighter than before. All the new body panels have IPD (in–mould plastic decoration) graphics and are made of stronger, more flexible plastic. The front and rear lights are more powerful. The rear cluster houses LED lights and an integrated dual purpose number plate holder that can carry either a homologation or a racing number without the owner having to buy additional parts. The front mudguard is also new. The new look of the bike is both eye-catching and different. Still on the subject of looks, the wheels are black anodised Excel rims and the new plastic engine protectors on both sides are also black. The newly designed side stand is made of aluminium. All the 2010 Husqvarna twin-cam engines now feature new radiator hoses and more powerful water pumps so as to improve cooling and performance. The engine has a new over-pressure valve in the oil circuit, a new needle cage lubrication bearing and a new oil filter. The exhaust valves are made of steel to ensure longer life and reliability. The gearbox has been renewed to offer improved gear change speed and accuracy. Gearbox design has seen changes in terms of: gear change linkage, lever and selector mechanisms. The 450 and 510 engines have also benefited from a new timing gear chain tensioner that was introduced to improve chain tension and reduce contact pressure. The exhaust system has twin aluminium silencers that create a very special sound, reduce overall noise levels and improve performance.