Husaberg FS 650 E [2007 - 2008]: The Supermoto That Redefined Lightweight Aggression

Introduction

The Husaberg FS 650 E is not just a motorcycle—it’s a declaration of intent. Born from Swedish engineering audacity and Austrian suspension mastery (courtesy of WP), this 2007-2008 supermoto generation remains a cult favorite for riders who crave visceral thrills over practicality. With its snarling 644cc single-cylinder engine, race-bred chassis, and minimalist design, the FS 650 E straddles the line between a track weapon and a street-legal adrenaline machine. But does it hold up as a rideable icon today? Let’s twist the throttle and find out.

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Engine Performance: The Beast Unleashed

At the heart of the FS 650 E lies a liquid-cooled, four-stroke single-cylinder engine displacing 644cc (39.3 cu-in)—a figure that still raises eyebrows in the supermoto world. The bore and stroke (100 x 82 mm) suggest a focus on mid-range torque, but don’t be fooled: this engine is anything but tame.

Key Highlights:
- Carbureted Brutality: The Keihin CVR 32 carburetor (later models use Keihin MX FCR 41 TPS) delivers a raw, unfiltered response. There’s no ride-by-wire sugarcoating here—just immediate throttle reactions that demand respect.
- Counter Balancer Upgrade (2008): The 2008 model’s revised counter balancer reduces vibrations significantly, making highway dashes less numbing. Older 2007 models remind you of every combustion cycle through the handlebars—a “feature” purists might ironically enjoy.
- Electric + Kick Start: The dual-start system is a godsend. While the electric starter works reliably, the kickstarter serves as both a backup and a nostalgic ritual.

Riding the FS 650 E feels like wrestling a hurricane. Below 4,000 RPM, it chugs along politely, but crack the throttle open, and the front wheel levitates with predatory ease. Husaberg never officially published power figures, but dyno tests suggest around 60 HP (44 kW)—enough to humble modern 700cc twins. The 6-speed gearbox (with reinforced stop-discs in 2008) shifts with a satisfying clunk, though false neutrals can plague hurried gear changes.

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Chassis & Handling: Precision Meets Playfulness

Frame: The 25CrMo4 steel frame is a masterpiece of minimalist design. Weighing just 113 kg (249 lbs) dry, the FS 650 E feels like a mountain bike with a jet engine. The 2008 model’s revised frame welding and triple clamp (CNC-machined, adjustable offset) sharpen steering precision, especially during aggressive cornering.

Suspension:
- Front: WP USD 4860 MA forks (48mm diameter) feature 275 mm (10.8 in) of travel. The 2008 update swapped steel piston rods for lighter aluminum units, reducing friction for buttery-smooth compression.
- Rear: The WP PDS 5018 shock offers 288 mm (11.3 in) of travel. Pre-load adjustability (added in 2008) lets you tailor the bike for street or track use.

Riding Impressions:
The FS 650 E isn’t just agile—it’s telepathic. Flicking it through serpentine roads feels like cheating physics. The 1490 mm (58.7 in) wheelbase and 37.4-inch seat height (950 mm) create a commanding riding position, though shorter riders might struggle at stops. Braking is handled by a single 260mm front disc (Brembo 4-piston caliper on later models) that bites hard enough to compress your internal organs.

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Design & Ergonomics: Function Over Fluff

The 2008 model’s darker graphics and “racer” aesthetic age better than the 2007’s配色方案, but both generations scream purpose-built machinery. The narrow 10.5-liter (2.7-gallon) fuel tank forces frequent stops, but it also keeps the bike svelte. Standing up on the pegs reveals a surprising lack of vibration—credit to the 2008 counter balancer—making it viable for urban hooliganism.

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Competition: How Does It Stack Up?

The late 2000s supermoto arena was fierce. Here’s how the Husaberg FS 650 E compares:

| Model | Engine | Weight | Suspension | Verdict |
|--------------------|------------------|------------------|----------------|---------------------------------|
| Husaberg FS 650 E | 644cc Single (60 HP) | 113 kg (249 lbs) | WP USD/PDS | Raw, lightweight, demands skill |
| KTM 690 SMC | 654cc Single (63 HP) | 139 kg (306 lbs) | WP USD/PDS | More refined, heavier, less flickable |
| Aprilia SXV 5.5 | 549cc V-Twin (70 HP) | 122 kg (269 lbs) | Öhlins | Higher peak power, fragile engine |
| Husqvarna SM610 | 576cc Single (49 HP) | 146 kg (322 lbs) | Marzocchi/Sachs | Bulletproof but sluggish |

The Husaberg’s edge lies in its power-to-weight ratio and WP suspension tuning. While the KTM 690 SMC offers easier livability, the FS 650 E rewards skilled riders with razor-sharp reflexes. The Aprilia SXV 5.5 outguns it on paper but suffers from reliability woes—a non-issue for the robust Husaberg engine.

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Maintenance: Keeping the Beast Alive

1. Oil Changes:
- Use SAE 10W-50 full synthetic (1.0L with filter). The trochoit oil pump is reliable but demands fresh oil every 15-20 hours.

2. Valve Checks:
- Intake/Exhaust Clearance: 0.12 mm (0.005 in) when cold. Frequent checks are mandatory—this is a high-strung engine.

3. Carburetor Tuning:
- The Keihin carb’s air screw defaults to 0.5 turns out. Expect seasonal jetting adjustments if you ride in varying climates.

4. Chain & Sprockets:
- The O-ring chain lasts ~5,000 km (3,100 miles). Upgrade to a DID 520ERV3 for extended life.

5. Brake Fluid:
- DOT 4 fluid changes every two years prevent spongy lever feel. The Brembo calipers (2008+) benefit from stainless steel pistons.

6. Cooling System:
- The 2008 water pump seal upgrade addressed leaks, but monitor coolant levels. Use ethylene glycol-based coolant for the 1.0L system.

MOTOPARTS.store Recommendations:
- NGK DCPR8EIX Iridium Plugs: Smoother ignition, less frequent changes.
- Brembo Brake Pads: Direct replacements for the 4-piston calipers.
- WP Suspension Rebuild Kits: Restore that factory-fresh damping.

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Conclusion: A Supermoto Legend That Still Bites

The Husaberg FS 650 E isn’t for the faint-hearted—or the mechanically disinclined. It’s a motorcycle that demands engagement, rewarding mastery with unrivaled agility and brute acceleration. While modern supermotos offer ABS and ride modes, the FS 650 E remains a raw, undiluted experience. For riders who value analog thrills over digital nannies, this Husaberg isn’t just a relic; it’s a revelation.

Whether you’re hunting for upgraded suspension components or a high-flow air filter, MOTOPARTS.store has the essentials to keep your FS 650 E shredding corners for another decade. After all, legends deserve nothing less.

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Specifications sheet

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