EICMA: Husqvarna's Mille3 concept

After unveiling its range of motocross and enduro bikes at Intermot in Cologne, Husqvarna chose the EICMA show in Milan to present a completely revamped supermotard range, its second brand new mini bike to follow on from the CR50, a limited-edition competition bike, and a designing-outside-the-box concept called the ‘Mille3’.

The Mille 3 has been designed to “demonstrate Husqvarna's ability to design with highly diverse technical solutions, creating a dynamic and seductive contrast”. And the philosophy? Whatever is not functional is superfluous and discarded, which “sets a new benchmark for future Husqvarna bikes”.

The end result is quite an arresting one, with the 993cc fuel-injected V-three commanding most of the attention, with the cylinder and head taken from the latest Husqvarna off-road models.

The steel chassis brings back the classic Husqvarna central "tubone" design, a single-piece tubular form. The double rear beam with aluminium stays is fitted to the outside of the chassis uprights.

And what would a concept bike be without a bit of showing off? In the Mille3’s case, it’s all about the flowing lines, streamlined shape and the sculptured side panels. And the seat wouldn’t look out of place on a trials bike.

The Mille3 also has a long wheelbase, quality stoppers, adjustable suspension, twin exhausts and flat handlebars.

And here’s the last word from Husqvarna on the Mille3: “Emotion is irrational, curiosity is a gift, and anti-conformism is innate.”

Meanwhile, for the here and now, Husqvarna unveiled the completely revamped SMR511 supermoto bike in Milan, developed on the basis of the enduro and motocross models.

The SM630 supermoto and TE630 dual-purpose now have new colour schemes, based on the graphics for the 2011 racing models, and the CR65 has doubled Husqvarna’s minicross line-up, joining the CR50 in the stable.

Both the TE630 and SM630 were extensively overhauled in 2010 and shown at EICMA. They have only recently arrived in Australia and the Bikesales Network recently rode both of them, so keep an eye out in coming weeks for ride impressions.

For the enduro diehards, there’s a TE250 Meo replica, based on the bike which Antoine Meo used to win this year’s E1 world title. Only 100 bikes will be made available worldwide.