2018 Husqvarna TE 250i

Two-strokes are back! Well, at least in the dirt. Leading this much-anticipated return to off-road glory is the Husqvarna TE 250i with its self-adjusting electronic fuel injection. In other words, the days of making carburetor jetting changes to compensate for fluctuations in altitude and/or temperature are history. Additionally, oil is pumped into the engine independently at specific volumes, eliminating the need to premix oil and gas. In simpler terms, Husqvarna has built an electric-start (plus kick) machine that keeps what is most appealing about two-strokes and loses a lot of what is not so appealing.

The big news here, of course, is the power valve-equipped engine—if you like riding technical trails with small rocks, tree roots, and stream crossings, you can lug this powerplant at super-low rpm—but the 48mm WP Xplor fork and linkage-equipped WP DCC shock are equally impressive. In addition, Husqvarna has fitted the TE 250i with a composite subframe. The three-piece unit is 30-percent carbon fiber, making it light (a claimed 3.1 pounds) yet providing the necessary rigidity for first-rate rider ergonomics and handling.

Likes: Nearly flawless engine performance, progressive brake feel

Dislikes: Standard suspension settings might be too soft for heavier riders

Verdict: A two-stroke that will make you forget about four-strokes