2002 Husqvarna CR250

2002 Husqvarna CR 250 – Continuing the Italian Two-Stroke Tradition

The 2002 Husqvarna CR 250 was primarily an evolutionary update of the previous year's machine rather than a completely new generation. Built during Husqvarna's Italian era, it remained a distinctive alternative to the Japanese 250 two-strokes and KTM's increasingly successful SX range. Its combination of a powerful two-stroke engine, steel chassis and European suspension gave it a character all its own.

The 249.3 cc liquid-cooled engine retained its 66.4 x 72 mm bore and stroke and used a 38 mm Mikuni TMX carburettor. An exhaust power-valve system broadened the engine's usable power delivery. On surviving bikes, carburettor wear, incorrect jetting and ageing intake components can significantly affect performance, so the MXOwners carburettor information and replacement options can be useful during restoration.

The chassis continued with long-travel Marzocchi upside-down forks and a Sachs rear shock operating through a progressive linkage. After more than two decades, suspension and chassis bearings deserve careful inspection; the MXOwners motorcycle bearing finder can help when replacing worn components.

For today's owner, returning a 2002 CR 250 to good mechanical condition is usually more worthwhile than modifying it. A fresh top end, clean power valve, properly serviced carburettor, fresh gearbox oil and correctly maintained foam air filter will restore much of the performance these bikes were known for. Correct fuel-oil mixture is equally important, and the two-stroke premix calculator makes preparing the required mixture straightforward. The 2002 CR 250 remains an uncommon and interesting survivor from Husqvarna's Italian-built motocross years.