At EICMA 2011, the Husqvarna Concept MOAB was unveiled. Husqvarna says it is the modern re-interpretation of the scrambler, the bike that lies at the heart of the Husqvarna history and its unique style. The colour scheme, down to every last detail, both in bodywork and mechanics, is taken from Steve McQueen’s H400. It is believed Steve was seen on a H400 racing the bike at Lake Elsinore Grand Prix in the 1971 cult motorbike racing documentary On Any Sunday. We have below an image of Steve McQueen’s Husky, but we have doubts if it is the H400 mentioned above, but hey the colour schemes are a spot on match aren’t they?
The MOAB can trace its origins to Husqvarna models from that period, legendary bikes that are milestones in the history of off-road biking, especially in the U.S. The MOAB, gets its name from a desert in Utah, where off-road bikers gather every year.
The red tank, the spacious seat, the yellow side panel number holders, the simple stripped-down frame all form the essence of the new incarnation of the Husqvarna spirit, as we’ve seen previously in the NUDA 900R.
The Husqvarna Concept MOAB has a 650cc engine on a perimeter frame and progressive linkage on the swingarm. The wheels are 17 inches and the tyres are semi-knobbly, and therefore suitable for off-road use.
The design has visually distinct regions of the tank, the seat, the number holders painted white and yellow and the exhaust. The lines are fluid yet working together form visually strong shapes. The tank blends with the seat and the rear section creating a fluidity that is dsitinctly Husqvarna. As with the latest generation of Husqvarna models, other design features include the concave shape of the front and rear mudguards. Also of note is the front number plate that lights up with LEDs serving as your head lamp. Ridiculously awesome eh?
Husqvarna says tradition and high-tech innovation are successfully blended in the details of the new Concept MOAB. The digital instrument panel that is situated in the upper crossbar or the LEDs on the front number holder and the tail-light. The unique form and colours give the MOAB an exhilaratingly vintage look. We agree, Husqvarna.
