Husqvarna

Husqvarna was a military arsenal founded in 1689 to produce muskets for the Swedish Army. The companies have since grown and split and the brand is used by several companies. Husqvarna may refer to:

* Husqvarna Vapenfabriks Aktiebolag, the original company manufacturing small arms.
* Husqvarna Motorcycles, now a subsidiary of BMW, is a motocross and enduro motorcycle manufacturer.
* Husqvarna AB, a company that produces lawn equipment and chainsaws.
* Husqvarna Sewing Machines
* Husqvarna is a brand name for home appliances manufactured by the Electrolux Group.
* Husqvarna is the old spelling of the town now known as Huskvarna, the original location of the company.

Husqvarna started producing motorcycles as early as 1903. In the beginning FN engines were used, around 1909 this was changed to Moto-Rêve. In the early twenties two models were introduced with their own side valve V-twin engine, of 992cc and 546cc capacity, the latter labelled model 180. At the time American V-twins were very popular sellers in Sweden, so it is no coincidence that the general layout of the model 180 bears a certain resemblance to the famous Indian Scout of the period; the carburetor fitted is an American Schebler, quite rarely seen on a European motorcycle. This Model 180 is a quality Swedish product, producing some 14bhp @ 4000rpm. Bosch electric lighting is fitted.



1966 marked the first year that Husqvarna began importing their machines to the United States for distribution to the American public. Husqvarna played a huge role in the development and rapid success of motocross in the United States. Edison Dye was the first and primary importer of these machines through his company, Med- International. You remember seeing one ridden by Steve McQueen in "On Any Sunday"?
Along with bringing over the bikes, Edison also brought over several European motocross stars which included Thorsten Hallman, Bengt Aberg and many others. Within a few short years, motocross on American soil would never be the same.