2024 Husqvarna TE 250 Review

For Husqvarna, enduro is a category it always wants to lead in. This year, the Austrian brand completely updated its lineup of TE and FE models with a new chassis, engines, and suspension. One of the first models in the 2024 enduro range we got our hands on was the TE 250, which we immediately began testing to conduct this full review.

For all the details on what’s new in Husqvarna’s enduro and dual sport lineup for 2024, check out our first look article. We also penned a technical information story detailing this specific machine’s features and specs for those interested in this particular model.

The fuel-injected liquid-cooled two-stroke 249cc single-cylinder engine is all-new and now uses a throttle body injection (TBI) system with an electronically controlled exhaust power valve. This EFI system replaces the transfer port injection (TPI) setup, which was introduced in 2018 and used on Husqvarna’s two-stroke enduros through 2023. The TE 150, TE 250, and TE 300 models are still oil-injected, so there’s no need to premix fuel.

The TE 250′s counterbalanced TBI engine is a significant upgrade from the previous TPI model. It uses a Keihin 39mm dual-injector throttle body. The new electronic system controls power valve timing and can open the main exhaust valve independently of the lateral valves, creating an even smoother power delivery. Since this is a closed-course model, there are no pesky restrictive items such as a spark arrestor or choked-up airbox for sound.

This 249cc two-stroke engine and TBI address most things we didn’t like about the TPI mill of prior years. The result of Husqvarna’s effort is one of the smoothest-running 250 two-stroke engines I’ve ever ridden. It rolls on clean, builds through the rpm range, and revs out better than the previous engine but still a little less than a carbureted engine.

Related: 2018 Husqvarna TE 250i And TE 300i Test

The big news in the suspension department is that the TE 250 now comes with WP Xact components front and rear. Fork is a WP Xact 48mm closed-cartridge coil-spring unit with compression damping adjusters on top and rebound damping adjusters on bottom.

The WP Xact shock features a new body and is 0.6 inch shorter, resulting in a claimed 0.2-pound weight reduction. Even though the shock is shorter, rear wheel travel remains the same at 11.8 inches.

These WP Xact components are a significant upgrade, especially the fork. Adjustments are easily made with tool-free adjusters at both ends of the fork and shock.

Settings feel slightly firmer than the prior-generation model’s. Most noticeably, bottoming resistance has been significantly increased. It retains a very good enduro feel, and absorbs rocks and roots well. For higher-speed riding, it’s necessary to go stiffer on compression and slower on rebound for both the fork and shock.

The TE 250 features a completely updated chassis, similar to what the motocross and cross-country models received last year. Its new chromoly steel frame is hydroformed, laser-cut, and robot-welded. Another new component is the hollow aluminum alloy swingarm, which is die-cast, and offers reduced unsprung weight and increased rigidity. There’s also a hybrid 60 percent polyamide and 40 percent aluminum subframe.

Related: WP Xact Pro 6500 Cartridge Suspension Kit Review

Electronics now feature a new dual engine map switch, and under the seat you’ll find a new Offroad Control Unit (OCU). The OCU eliminates the need for fuses and relays to make troubleshooting quicker and more accessible, even when you’re away from the garage or shop.

The changes in the new chassis make a noticeable difference on the trail. The 2024 TE 250 has a responsive feel with improved maneuverability. Wheelbase feels shorter, and cornering in tight trails is improved.

TBI brings this new two-stroke even closer to a carbureted feel. Throttle response is improved, and the TPI engine’s odd, vague roll-on feeling is gone. Powerband has been broadened with increased low-end roll-on power. Previously, with TPI, I felt like the 300cc version of this bike (the TE 300) was better, but now with TBI, the TE 250 has plenty of power.

The combination of this new chassis and upgraded suspension components take the TE 250 to the next level of performance. This motorcycle feels lighter than before, even though it weighs a few pounds more than the previous model. A shorter wheelbase feeling makes it easier to turn in tight woods where leaning the bike isn’t an option.

Suspension performs very well at slower speeds and in rocks. It continues to work well up through third gear. If you’re riding more open trails where you’re getting into flowing fourth gear sections, the suspension can become a little busy. It’s easily corrected with stiffening compression and slowing rebound.

Ergonomics of the TE 250 are comfortable. Compared to a KTM, it feels slightly lower, which is understandable because of its lower seat foam. Seat is still nice and flat when moving from front to back. The frame features a new footpeg pivot pin location, which, in turn, gives the footpegs an extraordinarily comfortable feel.

I spent more than 20 hours on the TE 250 and had no issues. I did find a comfortable suspension setting that gave me a better compromise of low-speed comfort and higher-speed control. The engine ran exceptionally well; for me, it’s night and day compared to the previous TPI system. For all but extreme conditions, I would not want more power. I enjoyed the improved cornering and didn’t notice any loss of stability. My only disappointment is the Braktec brakes. The rear is acceptable, but the front does not have the bite or progressive feel of others.

Related: 2024 Fuel-Injected 250cc Two-Stroke Off-Road & Enduro Bikes

Overall, the 2024 Husqvarna TE 250 is an improvement in all categories. If you own a TE 250 with TPI and are unsure if the 2024 model is worth the upgrade, it certainly is.

Helmet: Fly Racing Formula Carbon

Goggle: 100% Armega

Hydration Pack: Fly Racing XC 30

Jersey: Fly Racing Evolution DST

Gloves: Fly Racing Evolution DST

Pants: Fly Racing Evolution DST

Boots: Alpinestars Tech 7

Front Fender Stickers: DeCal Works preprinted