RUST magazine: Rust#3

ma
Whilst we expect the new 250/350 and 450
style motors to make the transition into enduro,
gaining six-speed gearboxes and subtle adjustments
to tune on the way, we’re not yet certain
about whether the new chassis technology will
be carried across as well. The 2016 ‘crossers
are using hydro-formed frames and air forks.
And of course the SXs all have linkage suspension
whereas the EXCs traditionally retain PDS.
Air forks have yet to appear on enduro models
so we have no marker as to whether they’ll work
in this environment. More likely for the EXCs
would be a switch to the WP 4CS shock, which
is currently reserved for the Six Days models
(and Husqvarnas), and retention of the PDS - albeit
probably with the new frame design as well.
And as we’ve already stated we are inching
ever closer to tightening emissions regulations
that could potentially change our bikes forever.
The next significant date in EU legislation is
1 Jan 2017 - actually not for emissions, but for the
mandatory application of ABS on all motorcycles
registerable for road use. That shouldn’t necessarily
be an issue - some might recall how the former
(Italian-German) Husqvarna showcased ABS on
their TE models and how well that worked with
minimal impact on weight or performance; whilst
under their new owners, Husky have already
released the 701 trailie which features a fullyswitchable
ABS system. Many riders - myself
included - felt it to be a step forward in terms of
safety. So no major issues there.