If you’ve read, “Getting there is at least half the fun of being there!” you’ll understand a little about my eternal struggle. I simply cannot leave anything alone. It used to drive my dad absolutely nuts. He’d always remind me, “Engineers smarter than you designed it that way for a reason. Just leave it alone.” Sorry, Dad—it’s just not happening.
This time around, the focus is on the Husky twins, my FE350s and FE501s. Before I bought them, everyone warned me: dual-sport models are too lean, too clogged up, and barely ridable out of the box. I didn’t believe it. I’m not chasing power these days; I want reliability and trail manners. But after breaking them in, I’ll admit “everyone” was right. They stall way too easily—flaming out mid-downshift into corners without even touching the brakes—and they run hotter than I’d like.
Santa Cruz Suspension to the Rescue
So, the Huskies are currently spending some quality time over the hill at Santa Cruz Suspension. They’re getting new ECUs and slip-on exhausts because, frankly, this was more than I wanted to take on myself with everything else going on. Between the XR600, RMX250, WR250, and Zero DS projects, I’ve already got a full plate. By handing the twins off to Rich, I can focus on the other bikes while knowing these two will get back on the trails in top form.
While they’re visiting lovely Santa Cruz, they’re getting a laundry list of upgrades:
FE350s Upgrade List
- Vortex ECU with Map Selector Switch
- Yoshimura Slip-On Muffler
- Wrap-Around Handguards
- Larger Rear Sprocket
- Intake Reeds Removed (maybe)
- Sag Set
- Oil Change
- Fresh Dunlop Geomax AT82 Front and Rear Tires
- Taco Moto Tidy Tail
FE501s Upgrade List
- Vortex ECU
- Yoshimura Slip-On Muffler
- Wrap-Around Handguards
- Intake Reeds Removed (maybe)
- Sag Set
- Oil Change
- IMS 4.5-Gallon Fuel Tank
- Dunlop D606 Rear Tire & Pirelli MT21 Front Tire
I’m skipping the Map Selector Switch and Tidy Tail on the 501 for now since it’ll mostly be for light dual-sport adventures rather than hardcore trails.
Future Plans for the Huskies
Once Rich works his magic, there’s still a little more in store. Both will be getting Handlebar Bags, Kickstand Cleats, and a few other items still to be determined.
For the 501, I’ll be adding:
- Enduro Engineering Brake Pedal Tip – A game changer; the 350 already has one, and without it, I can’t even find the brake pedal.
- Garmin zūmo® XT2 GPS with Handlebar Controller and Taco Moto Power Relay – Because getting lost is not on the agenda.
- NiceCNC Rear Tail Rack – For a touch of cargo-carrying convenience.
The 350 will get:
- NiceCNC Front & Rear Lift Pull Strap Kit – For those inevitable moments when it needs hauling back onto the trail.
- A small XRsOnly Rear Fender Bag – It’s been sitting in the garage long enough.
- Taco Moto Power Relay and a USB Port for auxiliary power. I may even wire it up to accept the Garmin, though I’m still mulling that over.
Why All the Fuss?
If you’re wondering why I go through all this, let me say: it’s not just about the upgrades. It’s about the experience of turning good bikes into great ones—and the satisfaction of knowing they’ll be ready for whatever adventure lies ahead. So, while my dad might shake his head and mutter, “Just leave it alone,” I think he’d still appreciate the effort.
Stay tuned for updates once the Huskies are back in action. Until then, I’ve got plenty to keep me busy in the garage!
