2003 Husqvarna CR250

2003 Husqvarna CR 250 – Refining the Italian-Built 250 Two-Stroke

The 2003 Husqvarna CR 250 was primarily an evolutionary continuation of the previous model rather than a new-generation motorcycle. By this point the Italian-built Husqvarna had developed into a distinctive alternative to the Japanese 250 two-strokes and KTM 250 SX, combining a powerful traditional two-stroke engine with European suspension and chassis components.

Its 249.3 cc liquid-cooled engine retained the 66.4 x 72 mm bore and stroke and used reed-valve induction, Husqvarna's mechanically controlled H.T.S. exhaust power valve and a 38 mm Mikuni TMX carburettor. Owners dealing with an ageing fuel system can consult the MXOwners carburettor information and replacement options. Husqvarna specified a richer 3 percent oil mixture during running-in and at least 2 percent after running-in, so the two-stroke premix calculator is useful when preparing fuel.

Suspension remained thoroughly European. A 45 mm Marzocchi upside-down fork provided 300 mm of front-wheel travel, while a Sachs shock and Husqvarna's progressive Soft Damp linkage delivered 320 mm at the rear. The factory specified SAE 7.5 fork oil with an 80 mm oil level, making correct servicing important when restoring the original suspension.

At just over 100 kg dry, with Brembo braking, Excel rims and a full-size 21-inch front and 19-inch rear wheel combination, the CR 250 remained a serious competition machine. Today, chassis condition deserves as much attention as the engine, particularly the steering, wheel and suspension linkage bearings; the MXOwners motorcycle bearing finder can assist when replacing worn components.

For a surviving 2003 CR 250, a sound top end, clean H.T.S. power valve, correctly jetted Mikuni, fresh gearbox oil and properly serviced suspension are the priorities. With those fundamentals sorted, this relatively uncommon Husqvarna remains an interesting and capable example of the Italian era of 250 cc two-stroke motocross development.