Picked up a 2011 TC250 and figured I'd share my impression as when I researched that model there was basically no feedback anywhere. Anyway I had a 2010 TC250 so I do have a base to go off of as far as how the updates and changes work in comparison to last years model.
First off the obvious differences to the naked eye are that it comes this year with a new header pipe and a real Akro exhaust. Also as everyone knows gone is the finicky carb of the '10 replaced by the Mikuni FI system. There are reinforced footpeg brackets on the frame. Mine came with Michelin starcross tires instead of last years Pirellis. Internally there are suppose to be some engine updates but I'm not in the know on what if any they are. Suspension wise it comes with the KYBs on the front and a Sachs rear shock same as last year. Shock spring is 5.4. I could be wrong but it looks to me like the rear linkage is a bit different but I no longer have my '10 to compare it too to confirm this. Ok enough with that and on to my riding impressions....
Engine: In one word "Wow". What a difference a year makes! I don't know if it's the Akro,FI or supposed internal updates but this baby rips! It is so free revving and lively in comparison to last years model. It has instant throttle response and the FI worked flawlessly and based on my impressions of this system on the TXC,TE models I was pleasantly surprised at how well it worked. Starting was easy and consistent. I dropped it in a rut when two riders went down in front of me and it started on the second kick after I picked it up and pushed it out of harms way and found neutral. Transmission shifted flawlessly and the clutch worked equally as well. All in all if you have a '10 do not ride an '11 or your checkbook might get hurt. I've ridden an '11 KX250F and the Husky is more then up to the job motorwise this year.
Handling/Suspension: Typical light feeling like last years model and it's very stable and turns with the best of them. Nothing to complain about here and it's so easy to throw it around that it's confidence inspiring. I just backed off the compression on the forks a couple of clicks and slowed down the rebound on the rear shock a bit and set the sag at 100mm and I have no complaints. I'm sure as I get time on it I may adjust or fiddle with the clickers but I can't see any revalves or spring changes in my future. Sticks nicely in the ruts which there were many of today and is very willing to cut the inside line with very little input. Overall a very solid nimble handling ride.
Misc: Brakes were great and had good feel and both ends felt good and strong. Seat height in typical Husky fashion is on the tall side but once underway I really never noticed it. Ergos worked well for me. It's nice and slim and I like the seat and the controls are effortless and well placed once adjusted for personal preference. Michelins worked great for our east coast sand loam mixture. Went over the bike prior to riding it and I'm happy to say nothing came loose or needed attention during the day.
Overall: I must say it's a shame there is no tests/reviews or real world feedback on the '11 TC250 as it's a big step up from the '10 in motor alone and as a total package it's a great bike that deserves major props this year. If you're in the market for a 250F by all means put this baby on your radar as it's got to be one of Husky's best kept secrets this year!
First off the obvious differences to the naked eye are that it comes this year with a new header pipe and a real Akro exhaust. Also as everyone knows gone is the finicky carb of the '10 replaced by the Mikuni FI system. There are reinforced footpeg brackets on the frame. Mine came with Michelin starcross tires instead of last years Pirellis. Internally there are suppose to be some engine updates but I'm not in the know on what if any they are. Suspension wise it comes with the KYBs on the front and a Sachs rear shock same as last year. Shock spring is 5.4. I could be wrong but it looks to me like the rear linkage is a bit different but I no longer have my '10 to compare it too to confirm this. Ok enough with that and on to my riding impressions....
Engine: In one word "Wow". What a difference a year makes! I don't know if it's the Akro,FI or supposed internal updates but this baby rips! It is so free revving and lively in comparison to last years model. It has instant throttle response and the FI worked flawlessly and based on my impressions of this system on the TXC,TE models I was pleasantly surprised at how well it worked. Starting was easy and consistent. I dropped it in a rut when two riders went down in front of me and it started on the second kick after I picked it up and pushed it out of harms way and found neutral. Transmission shifted flawlessly and the clutch worked equally as well. All in all if you have a '10 do not ride an '11 or your checkbook might get hurt. I've ridden an '11 KX250F and the Husky is more then up to the job motorwise this year.
Handling/Suspension: Typical light feeling like last years model and it's very stable and turns with the best of them. Nothing to complain about here and it's so easy to throw it around that it's confidence inspiring. I just backed off the compression on the forks a couple of clicks and slowed down the rebound on the rear shock a bit and set the sag at 100mm and I have no complaints. I'm sure as I get time on it I may adjust or fiddle with the clickers but I can't see any revalves or spring changes in my future. Sticks nicely in the ruts which there were many of today and is very willing to cut the inside line with very little input. Overall a very solid nimble handling ride.
Misc: Brakes were great and had good feel and both ends felt good and strong. Seat height in typical Husky fashion is on the tall side but once underway I really never noticed it. Ergos worked well for me. It's nice and slim and I like the seat and the controls are effortless and well placed once adjusted for personal preference. Michelins worked great for our east coast sand loam mixture. Went over the bike prior to riding it and I'm happy to say nothing came loose or needed attention during the day.
Overall: I must say it's a shame there is no tests/reviews or real world feedback on the '11 TC250 as it's a big step up from the '10 in motor alone and as a total package it's a great bike that deserves major props this year. If you're in the market for a 250F by all means put this baby on your radar as it's got to be one of Husky's best kept secrets this year!
