BMW Buys Husky.

[jeffd]

After months of rumors - BMW made official announcement today.

http://www.reuters.com/article/innov...82692720070720

jeff

[Berkyboy]

I haven't read the press release but BMW is most likely positioning itself to be more competitive against KTM. KTM's v-twins are already cutting into BMW sales.

[GMP]

I hope they take a "hands off" approach and let Husky run itself. Husky has come a long way back, the bikes are good now and '08s look even better.

Question I have is how does the Husky TE450 co-exist with this new BMW 450?

[jeffd]

I thought I read that BMW dropped development of their new 450 to focus on husky... When presented with a make versus buy situation - they went "buy"...

jeff

[tm_enduro]

I suspect that the BMW 450 was a glimpse at BMW future and them showing KTM that they have the pockets to think outside the box. With the strong rumors that the 2009 Husaberg will be revolutionary bike (that is still in hiding), BMW may have felt compelled to show that it is ready to rumble.

[TooFastTim]

I saw this on motorcycledaily and it may be the most significant thing to happen to the sport since the arrival of the japs.

That BMW were prepared to drop their investment in their 450 enduro bike in favour of purchasing Husky speaks volumes. BMW want a slice of the action and will stop at nothing to get it. Personally I don't understand it.

BTW, if you don't know, BMW have a long and proud off-road history. I just hope they respect Husqvarnas history.

[eff]

Husky Italy:

http://www.husqvarna.it/_vti_g5_nwAr...42&rpstry=157_

[flybars]

The TE's have efi, Zoke 50's, Sach's and are quite a bit lighter for '08.