Husqvarna TE 150 [2017-2019] Review: The Lightweight Enduro Maverick

The Husqvarna TE 150, produced between 2017 and 2019, is a motorcycle that defies expectations. Designed as a bridge between entry-level agility and professional-grade performance, this two-stroke enduro machine carves its niche in the dirt bike world with a blend of Swedish engineering, cutting-edge weight savings, and a playful powerband. After spending a day threading it through rocky trails, splashing across creek beds, and attacking hill climbs, one thing is clear: the TE 150 isn’t just a bike—it’s a gateway to adrenaline.

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Engine Performance: Two-Stroke Thrills, Modern Refinement

The Heart of the Beast

At the core of the TE 150 lies a 149 cc (9.0 cu-in) liquid-cooled two-stroke engine. With a bore and stroke of 58 x 54.4 mm, this isn’t your grandfather’s smoky, temperamental two-stroke. The inclusion of a Mikuni TMX 38 mm carburettor (a departure from the older Keihin) delivers crisp throttle response and a surprisingly linear power curve. Unlike carbureted engines of yore, this setup is less finicky about altitude and temperature swings—a blessing for riders tackling mountain trails or desert rides.

The engine’s party trick? A counter-balancer shaft that reduces vibrations by up to 50%. On tight single-track trails, where fatigue is the enemy, this feature lets you ride longer without the usual two-stroke buzz numbing your hands. The power valve system has also been reworked to broaden the torque spread, making the TE 150 less of a "light switch" and more of a dimmer knob. You’ll find usable grunt from low RPMs, a meaty midrange punch, and a satisfying scream up top—though it’s happiest when kept singing in the mid-to-high range.

Electric Start: No More Kickstart Drama

Gone are the days of frantic kicking after a stall on a hillside. The TE 150’s electric starter (standard on all 2017–2019 models) is a game-changer. Nestled under the engine for protection, it fires up the bike reliably, even after a tip-over. A kickstarter is retained as a backup, but you’ll rarely need it.

Transmission and Clutch

The six-speed gearbox is slick and precise, with ratios tailored for enduro versatility. First gear crawls up technical sections without stalling, while sixth lets you cruise fire roads at 85–90 km/h (53–56 mph) without feeling overrevved. The Magura hydraulic clutch is featherlight, offering impeccable modulation—critical for managing wheelspin on slippery roots or lofting the front wheel over logs.

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Chassis and Handling: Precision Meets Durability

Frame and Suspension

The TE 150’s chromoly steel frame is a masterpiece of balance. With 20% higher torsional rigidity than its predecessor, it strikes a Goldilocks zone between stability and flex. Paired with a composite carbon-fiber subframe (30% lighter than before), the chassis feels alive beneath you, communicating every pebble and rut without beating you up.

Up front, the WP Xplor 48 fork is a revelation. Designed specifically for enduro, its open-cartridge design splits damping duties: compression adjustment on the left leg, rebound on the right. The inclusion of a tool-free preload adjuster lets you fine-tune sag in seconds. With 300 mm (11.8 in) of travel, it swallows square-edged hits and rock gardens with ease. Out back, the WP DCC shock offers 330 mm (13.0 in) of travel and a linkage system that maintains traction even when the rear wheel is dancing over baby heads.

Brakes and Wheels

Brembo components anchor the braking system. The front 260 mm disc and twin-piston caliper deliver bite without grabbiness, while the rear 220 mm disc (with a smaller 24 mm piston for 2017+) allows for nuanced slides. The Dunlop Geomax AT81 tires wrap around DID rims, offering predictable grip on everything from loam to slimy clay. At 92 kg (203 lbs) dry, the TE 150 flicks side-to-side like a trials bike, yet feels planted at speed.

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Ergonomics: Built for the Long Haul

Rider Triangle and Comfort

The TE 150’s cockpit is minimalist but purposeful. The 960 mm (37.8 in) seat height is tall, but the narrow chassis lets shorter riders dab a foot confidently. The bend of the Renthal Fatbar (standard on later models) and ODI lock-on grips keep wrists and shoulders relaxed during all-day rides. The translucent 10-liter (2.6-gallon) fuel tank is a clever touch—no more shaking the bike to guess fuel levels—and the quick-release cap simplifies refueling during races.

Airbox and Maintenance

Husqvarna’s tool-free air filter access is a mechanic’s dream. Pop off the left side panel, and the Twin Air filter slides out for cleaning. The redesigned airbox prevents debris intrusion, a must for riders who frequent dusty trails.

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Competition: How Does the TE 150 Stack Up?

KTM 150 XC-W

The TE 150’s orange cousin shares much of its DNA—same engine architecture, similar suspension. However, the Husqvarna edges ahead with its composite subframe (vs. KTM’s steel) and standard Magura clutch (KTM uses Brembo). The XC-W’s seat is slightly softer, but the TE 150 feels nimbler in tight woods.

Beta 200 RR

Beta’s 200 cc two-stroke offers more low-end torque, appealing to technical trail riders. However, it weighs 6 kg (13 lbs) more than the TE 150 and lacks an electric starter (until 2021). The Beta’s Sachs suspension is plush but less adjustable than WP’s Xplor setup.

Yamaha YZ125X

Yamaha’s cross-country YZ125X is a motocrosser-turned-enduro. It’s lighter (89 kg / 196 lbs) and cheaper but misses key enduro features like a headlight, electric start, and wide-ratio transmission. The TE 150’s versatility makes it the better all-rounder.

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Maintenance: Keeping Your TE 150 in Fighting Shape

Two-Stroke Essentials

• Oil Mixing: Stick to a quality synthetic oil at a 60:1 ratio. Avoid cheap oils—they’ll gum up the power valve.
• Air Filter: Clean every 10–15 hours. Upgrade to a Twin Air Pro Filter for better airflow and dust trapping.
• Suspension Service: Rebuild the WP forks and shock annually if ridden hard. Use MOTOPARTS.store’s WP Suspension Rebuild Kit for a DIY option.

Wear Items

• Chain and Sprockets: The X-Ring chain is durable, but swap to a DID VT2 Enduro Chain for rocky terrain. Replace sprockets as a set.
• Brake Pads: Brembo sintered pads (available in our store) improve bite in wet conditions.
• Exhaust: Protect the stock pipe with a P3 Heat Shield or upgrade to an FMF Fatty for more midrange.

Carb Tuning

The Mikuni TMX can be finicky in extreme cold. Install a JD Jet Kit with our recommended settings for your elevation.

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Conclusion: The Swiss Army Knife of Enduro

The Husqvarna TE 150 [2017–2019] is a masterclass in balancing aggression and accessibility. It’s a bike that forgives novice mistakes but rewards expert inputs—a rare trait in the two-stroke world. Whether you’re slicing through hare scrambles, exploring backcountry singletrack, or honing your skills on a motocross track, this Husqvarna refuses to be pigeonholed.

At MOTOPARTS.store, we’re riders first. That’s why we stock everything from Husqvarna-specific skid plates to performance ignition modules to keep your TE 150 shredding for years. Come for the review; stay for the upgrades. Your next adventure starts here.

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Specifications sheet

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