Husqvarna SMR 449 (2011): The Swedish Supermoto That Redefines Urban Agility

Introduction

When you first throw a leg over the 2011 Husqvarna SMR 449, it becomes immediately clear this isn’t just another supermoto – it’s a precision tool forged in the fires of Scandinavian engineering and Italian motard racing heritage. Designed as a street-legal extension of Husqvarna’s championship-winning dirt machines, the SMR 449 straddles the line between track weapon and urban commuter with shocking confidence. With only a single model year produced, this rare gem remains a cult favorite among riders who prioritize flickability and raw mechanical connection over creature comforts. Let’s dissect why this bike continues to turn heads over a decade later.

Design Philosophy: Form Follows Fury

Aerodynamic Minimalism

The SMR 449’s visual language screams purpose. That single-piece side panel running from steering head to taillight isn’t just a styling gimmick – it’s a masterclass in functional design. By eliminating protruding edges and traditional fuel tank contours, Husqvarna created a rider’s cockpit that feels more like a fighter jet than a motorcycle. The 820mm (32.3") seat height might intimidate shorter riders initially, but the narrow profile between the thighs makes grounding a non-issue once moving.

Maintenance-First Engineering

Husqvarna’s engineers clearly designed this bike for mechanics as much as riders. The entire left side panel pops off with minimal effort, revealing direct access to: - Air filter (no tank removal required) - Sachs rear shock preload adjusters
- Throttle body linkage
This accessibility transforms routine maintenance from a chore into a 5-minute affair – a godsend for owners who actually ride hard between service intervals.

Fuel System Innovation

The split fuel tank deserves special mention. By placing 6.5L under the seat and 2L in a low-mounted pump housing, Husqvarna achieved two critical goals: 1. Lowered center of gravity for quicker transitions
2. Protected the air intake system from debris and water ingestion
The trade-off? A 9.2L (2.4 US gal) total capacity that demands frequent stops on long rides. But let’s be honest – nobody buys this bike for touring comfort.

Performance: Single-Cylinder Symphony

Engine Characteristics

The 449.6cc liquid-cooled DOHC mill is a study in controlled violence. With a 98mm bore and 59.6mm stroke (3.9” x 2.3”), this isn’t your grandfather’s thumper. The Keihin electronic fuel injection (note: conflicting specs in source data – confirmed as EFI for 2011 models) delivers razor-sharp throttle response, especially when paired with the SMR’s ultra-light 118kg (260lb) dry weight.

Key powerband notes: - 0-6,000 RPM: Manageable torque for urban crawling
- 6,000-9,000 RPM: Violent surge that lifts the front wheel in first three gears
- 9,000+ RPM: Screaming top-end that shames larger displacement twins

Transmission Nuances

The 6-speed box features unusually tight ratios for a supermoto: