Husqvarna or Honda?
 

I currently own a Husky TE410 enduro, and after many months checking on this site, have yet to see any mention of these bikes regards RTW travel. It's my first bike, and i'm considering doing a trip to Morroco next yr, but i do have a few questions...

The bike has no oil pump as such, in it's place is an oil reed, which is conveniently placed behind the clutch basket. has anyone ever had any hassle with these? and how long can i expect it to last? it looks like a right sod to change when stuck in the middle of nowhere...

Most of the engine appears to have magnesium casings, are these easy to repair eg weld or glue? back together in the event of a stack?

The bike also lacks an oil filter, so very regular oil changes are required, which looks like a lot of hassle, and i would assume would add a substantial cost to the trip budget.
Is it worth fitting an aftermarket oil filter to it, and also fitting other extras, like a headlight that actually allows u to see where your going, a larger fuel tank and better seat to name a few? or would i be better off changing the bike for something like Hondas new XR650r (another bike that i have seen very little mention of on this site)? or anything else that is simple and fun and reasonably light?
i would be greatful for any advice that can be passed on relating to these queries...

Nathan

Well Nathan,

You've convinced me - the Husky sounds way too hard to take on a long trip. http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/ubb/smile.gif

The bike is designed for serious trail riding, not long distance travel. Fantastic play bike, but you will find that the maintenance requirements are too high, and it's main quality - trailability - is of little use when travelling.

It will be heavily loaded, negating most of it's excellent handling, and you'll be far from home and good medical care, so you will be wise to ride "cool," just take it easy and enjoy the sights without going so fast that you are at risk of crashing.

You will also find it very difficult if not impossible to find travel oriented gear for it.

There are plenty of bikes to choose from for long distance travel. The XR650 has basically the same problems as the Husky, (too trail oriented) which is why you see little mention of it here.

Read the posts in this forum (and reports on the site) thoroughly, and choose something better suited to the kind of travel you're planning. Keep the Husky for at home play.

------------------
Grant Johnson

Share the Dream!
at: www.HorizonsUnlimited.com

Thanks for the advice Grant!