Husaberg FE 570 [2010-2011]: A Big-Bore Enduro That Defies Expectations
Introduction
The Husaberg FE 570 isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a statement. Born from Swedish engineering audacity and Austrian suspension wizardry (courtesy of WP), this 565.5cc enduro machine from 2010-2011 redefined what a big-bore dirt bike could achieve. With its radical 70-degree cylinder layout—tilting the engine backward to centralize mass—the FE 570 feels like a physics-defying cheat code in the dirt. Though its production run was brief, this bike left an indelible mark on the enduro world. After throwing a leg over one recently, it’s clear why enthusiasts still hunt for these gems today.
Riding Experience: Taming the Beast (Or Letting It Loose)
Engine: Controllable Fury
At first glance, a 570cc single-cylinder engine sounds like a recipe for arm-stretching chaos. But the FE 570’s power delivery is a masterclass in balance. The Keihin EFI system feeds the SOHC 4-valve mill with precision, serving up torque that builds like a tidal wave rather than a tsunami. From idle to redline, there’s no hit—just an ever-building surge that lets you tractor up hills at walking speeds or blast across open terrain with the throttle pinned.
The magic number? 72mm of stroke. This gives the FE 570 its diesel-like lugging ability. I found myself climbing technical singletrack in third gear, the engine chugging along at near-stall rpm without complaint. Yet twist the throttle wide on a fire road, and the 565.5cc brute will loft the front wheel effortlessly at 80 km/h (50 mph).
Chassis & Suspension: Lightweight Precision
Despite its displacement, the FE 570’s 114.5 kg (252 lbs) dry weight feels shockingly manageable. The 25CrMo4 chromoly frame combines rigidity with calculated flex, creating a planted feel at speed without beating you up in rock gardens.
- WP Suspension Setup:
- Front: 48mm USD forks with 300mm (11.8") travel
- Rear: WP PDS shock with 335mm (13.2") travel
The PDS (no-linkage) rear suspension deserves special praise. Over square-edged whoops, it maintains composure where some linkage systems pack up. Dialing in the high/low-speed compression adjusters transforms the bike from plush trail companion to aggressive race weapon.
Ergonomics: Tall But Thoughtful
At 985mm (38.8"), the seat height is intimidating for shorter riders. Yet once moving, the FE 570’s narrow profile and 390mm (15.4") of ground clearance let you attack ruts and logs with knees-out confidence. The polyethylene fuel tank’s low placement (just 8.5L/2.25 gal) keeps weight centered, making the bike feel 50cc smaller than its specs suggest.
On the Trail: Where It Shines
- Technical Terrain: The combination of instant torque and precise throttle response makes rock crawls feel controlled rather than frantic.
- High-Speed Stability: With 22mm triple clamp offset (up from 19mm on earlier models), the front end stays planted even at triple-digit km/h.
- Single-Track Surprise: Don’t let the big bore fool you—flicking through tight trees is possible thanks to the centralized mass.
Competition: How the FE 570 Stacks Up
1. KTM 530 EXC (2010-2011)
- Similar displacement but with different character
- KTM’s 510cc engine revs faster but lacks low-end grunt
- 6-speed gearbox ratios nearly identical
- WP suspension on both, but KTM uses linkage rear
- Verdict: FE 570 better for technical/technical riding; KTM prefers faster terrain
2. Husqvarna TE 510
- Italian-era Husky’s counterbalanced engine smoother at high RPM
- Lighter feel but less torque below 4,000 RPM
- Marzocchi/Sachs suspension vs. WP – more progressive but less adjustable
- Verdict: TE 510 better for motocross hybrids; FE 570 dominates true enduro
3. Yamaha WR450F
- 449cc engine feels anemic compared to Husaberg’s torque
- Steel frame adds ~10 kg (22 lbs)
- Broader aftermarket support but less exotic appeal
- Verdict: WR450F for reliability-focused riders; FE 570 for performance purists
Maintenance: Keeping the Beast Alive
Key Considerations:
- Oil Changes: Every 15 engine hours or 500 km (310 mi). Use JASO-MA certified 10W-50. MOTOPARTS.store recommends Motorex Cross Power 4T.
- Air Filter Service: Clean every ride in dusty conditions. The updraft airbox design (under seat) stays clean but requires seat removal.
- Valve Checks: Every 30 hours. Shim-under-bucket design stays stable but requires technical skill.
- Suspension Rebuilds: WP seals last ~150 hours. Upgrade to SKF wipers for longer service life.
- Brake Maintenance:
- Front Brembo pads last ~80 hours (enduro use)
- Replace rear wave rotor at 0.8mm wear limit
Common Upgrades:
- Exhaust: The stock aluminum silencer meets noise limits but robs top-end. A slip-on like FMF Q4 adds power without deafening trails.
- Gearing: For tight terrain, swap the 14:38 final drive to 13:40. Available at MOTOPARTS.store.
- Cooling: Install a fan kit for slow technical riding—prevents boil-overs.
Conclusion: The Cult Classic That Deserves More Than Nostalgia
The Husaberg FE 570 isn’t just a relic for collectors—it’s a still-relevant tool for riders who value torque over trends. While newer bikes boast traction control and Bluetooth, the FE 570 rewards skill with purity. Its maintenance needs are typical of high-performance Euros, and with proper care, these engines routinely surpass 20,000 km (12,400 mi).
For owners looking to refresh their FE 570 or newcomers discovering this icon, MOTOPARTS.store carries everything from OEM-spec WP shock rebuild kits to performance air filters. Whether you’re resurrecting a barn find or prepping for a hard enduro, this big Berg deserves to stay in the fight.
Specifications sheet
Engine | |
---|---|
Stroke: | Four-stroke |
Fuel system: | Keihin EFI Electronic fuel injection |
Lubrication: | Pressure circulation, trochoit oil pump |
Displacement: | 565.5 ccm |
Configuration: | Single |
Cooling system: | Liquid cooled |
Compression ratio: | 12.2:1 |
Number of cylinders: | 1 |
Dimensions | |
---|---|
Wheelbase: | 1475 mm (58.1 in) |
Dry weight: | 114.5 |
Seat height: | 985 mm (38.8 in) |
Ground clearance: | 390 mm (15.4 in) |
Fuel tank capacity: | 8.5 L (2.25 US gal) |
Drivetrain | |
---|---|
Clutch: | Wet multi-disc clutch, hydraulically operated |
Final drive: | chain |
Transmission: | 6-speed |
Maintainance | |
---|---|
Rear tire: | 140/80-18 |
Front tire: | 90/90-21 |
Break fluid: | DOT 4 (assumed based on brake system) |
Spark plugs: | NGK (exact model not specified) |
Valve clearance check interval: | Not specified |
Additional Notes | |
---|---|
Ignition: | Kokusan digital |
Exhaust system: | Aluminium silencer with stainless steel manifold |
Frame material: | Chrome-molybdenum steel |
Starting system: | Electric |
Chassis and Suspension | |
---|---|
Frame: | Double cradle perimeter design 25CrMo4, subframe Cross-linked Polyethylene |
Rear brakes: | Single 220 mm disc, 1-piston caliper |
Front brakes: | Single 260 mm disc, 2-piston caliper |
Rear suspension: | WP PDS 5018 Husaberg Enduro |
Front suspension: | WP USD 4860 MA Husaberg Enduro (48 mm Closed Cartridge) |
Rear wheel travel: | 335 mm (13.2 in) |
Front wheel travel: | 300 mm (11.8 in) |