Husqvarna TE 150 [2020-2022]: The Lightweight Enduro That Rewrites the Rules

Introduction: A New Era of Two-Stroke Refinement

The Husqvarna TE 150i (2020-2022) represents a fascinating paradox in the enduro world - a modernized two-stroke that combines razor-sharp aggression with unexpected sophistication. Designed for riders who demand both the visceral thrill of a traditional dirt bike and the precision of contemporary engineering, this 144cc machine carves its own niche in the competitive enduro landscape.

We spent days pushing this Swedish-origin warrior through rocky Appalachian single-track, Midwestern mud bogs, and high-altitude desert terrain. What emerges is a motorcycle that feels like it's cheating physics - until you realize it's just executing Husqvarna's engineering playbook to perfection.

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Engine Performance: Two-Stroke Soul Meets 21st Century Smarts

At the heart of the TE 150i beats a 144.3cc liquid-cooled two-stroke that's been dragged kicking and screaming into the modern era. The magic lies in that lowercase 'i' - a fuel injection system that transforms this from a nostalgic dirt weapon into a precision tool.

Key characteristics: - Power delivery: Unlike carbureted two-strokes that demand precise throttle finesse, the TE 150i's TPI (Transfer Port Injection) serves up linear power from 3,000 RPM. There's still that classic two-stroke hit at 7,500 RPM, but it's more controllable surge than sudden explosion - Clutch action: The Braktec/Magura (varies by model year) hydraulic clutch requires just one-finger operation, even during marathon technical sections - Gearing: The 13/48 sprocket combo with 118-link chain creates a perfect balance between low-end crawl (15:1 final drive ratio) and 100+ km/h (62 mph) trail-bridging capability

What surprised us most was the engine's dual personality. In tight woods, it lugs like a four-stroke at 2,500 RPM without loading up. Open the throttle wide on a fire road, and the 58mm bore/54.4mm stroke configuration screams to its 11,500 RPM limiter with a ferocity that'll have motocrossers doing double-takes.

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Handling & Suspension: Where Physics Takes a Backseat

With a claimed dry weight of 99.6 kg (219.6 lbs) and 50/50 weight distribution, the TE 150i redefines flickable. The 1471mm (57.9") wheelbase feels telepathically responsive without becoming twitchy at speed.

Suspension highlights: - Front: WP XPLOR-USD 48mm forks (300mm travel/11.8") handle everything from square-edge rocks to G-out landings - Rear: WP XACT monoshock (300-330mm travel depending on year) with progressive linkage eats up whoops while maintaining composure on steep descents - Setup tip: Riders under 70 kg (154 lbs) might find the stock springs soft for aggressive riding - consider upgrading springs before fiddling with damping

The real revelation comes in technical terrain. That 960mm (37.8") seat height looks intimidating on paper, but the narrow chassis and sculpted seat let even 170cm (5'7") riders dab comfortably. Combine this with 360mm (14.2") ground clearance, and you've got a bike that laughs at log crossings.

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Design & Ergonomics: Function Meets Swedish Flair

Husqvarna's design language shines through in details that matter: - Frame: The 25CrMo4 steel double-cradle chassis offers 26.5° rake for precise steering without headshake - Bodywork: Slimmer radiator shrouds (2021+) and gripper seat material keep you locked in during hard braking - Controls: Magura HC1 levers and ODI lock-on grips come standard - touches usually reserved for modified bikes - Fuel system: The 8.5L (2.25 gal) composite tank hides injection components neatly while maintaining a narrow profile

The digital dash (2019+ models) provides essential data without clutter - just hour meter, trip, and clock. It's Spartan but effective, leaving you focused on the trail.

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Competition: How the TE 150i Stacks Up

1. KTM 150 XC-W

• Same parent company, different personality: Shares the engine but uses softer suspension settings. Better for technical trails but less precise at speed. Chain drive identical (13/48), making sprocket swaps easy for owners of either bike.

2. Beta 200 RR

• The displacement underdog: Beta's 190cc two-stroke offers more low-end but weighs 8kg (17.6 lbs) more. Requires carb tuning vs the Husky's set-and-forget injection.

3. Yamaha YZ125X

• Purist's choice: Lighter at 97kg (214 lbs) but carbureted. Needs frequent jetting changes for elevation shifts where the TE 150i adapts automatically.

Veridict: The TE 150i occupies a sweet spot between modern convenience and traditional two-stroke excitement. It's the choice for riders who want to focus on riding, not fiddling.

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Maintenance: Keeping Your Swedish Weapon Battle-Ready

As MOTOPARTS.store's lead technician, I can't stress enough how proper care maximizes this bike's capabilities:

Critical Service Items

• Spark Plugs: NGK T40199D-G12 (gap 1.2mm/0.047") every 40 engine hours
• Chain: DID 520X-ring (118 links) with 13T/48T sprockets. Check tension every 5 rides (35-40mm free play)
• Fluids:
• Coolant: 1.2L of ethylene glycol (change annually)
• Transmission: 800ml SAE 15W-50 (check magnetic drain plug for debris)
• Brakes: DOT 4/5.1 fluid flush every 60 hours

Common Upgrades

• Gearing: Rocky terrain riders often switch to 12T front sprockets (+7% torque)
• Tires: Stock Dunlop Geomax AT81s work well, but consider Motoz Tractionator for hardpack
• Handguards: The 48mm fork diameter requires specific mounts - we recommend Cycra Probend CRM

Pro Tip:

The oil injection system needs zero adjustment, but always use JASO-FD certified injector oil. We've seen too many engines damaged by "universal" oils.

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Conclusion: The Two-Stroke That Makes Sense

After days of abusive testing, the TE 150i leaves one overwhelming impression - it's a two-stroke for the thinking rider. The injection system eliminates carburetor voodoo, the chassis forgives miscalculations, and the powerband adapts to your mood. Whether you're a hard enduro specialist or a weekend trail warrior, this Husqvarna delivers that rare combination of excitement and approachability.

At MOTOPARTS.store, we keep shelves stocked with every consumable this machine demands - from WP suspension rebuild kits to those finicky fuel injector O-rings. Ride hard, maintain smart, and let this Swedish marvel remind you why two-strokes still rule the dirt.

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Specifications sheet

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