12mm greater travel up front , along with firm MX springs at each end and the shortish rear travel , somewhat counterbalances the quick turning geometry . The handling feel is light and agile , but the turn-in feel is stable , planted and not super quick . However , the steering is by no means slow – the overall steering balance is great . The standard setup is ideal for sand tracks , while tight tracks may require the forks slid up through the clamps and some fettling with rider sag . I am a fan of the slightly less rear wheel travel ( compared to other bikes ), because it helps keep the rear low , but also because many years ago it was clear that it was not the amount of travel that was important , but the quality . And this suspension impresses . The rear stays low , well controlled , and plush while maintaining a firm feel . The front is similar , but with a slightly plusher feel overall , mainly because the engine drive is not affecting it . Both ends sit up well in the stroke . In fairness , I did not ride the 250 on particularly rough terrain , so cannot truly comment on how choppy ground and bad acceleration holes affects it . The nicely shaped Pro Taper bars can be mounted in two positions helping to cater for tall or shorter riders . The bar clamps can be solidly mounted or with rubber inserts for a little more user comfort . The radiators are made from Hi strength alloy for superior crash resistance … time will tell . Brake performance is excellent with great feel and strength thanks to the 260mm disc up front and a 220mm at the rear .
WHERE WE ’ RE AT Now , having written the above and been up close and personal with the 250 , it is hard not to agree when Husqvarna says the bike has “ excellent build quality which guarantees both performance and reliability ”. They ’ re right . I think that , overall , most riders are likely to be happy with the handling and suspension package . But not only that , the engine , ergonomics , brakes and looks are excellent – this is a quality package for many types of rider . Yes , it ’ s a motocross machine , but it ’ s so much more than that too .
64 KIWI RIDER