But then my passion for the bike kicked in and I had to upgrade it. I purchased a 1980 390cr engine for it and had that rebuilt by Uptite Husqvarna. He gave it a great overhaul. I had the Ohlins shocks revalved as well as replaced the front fork with an '81 model (40mm). I had Aftershocks revalve the front forks for improved performance.
I have just purchased a black 390 tank and will install that upon receipt to complete the 390 theme. I do not wish to destroy any of the original parts in case I decide to one day restore this bike to original condition. I've kept all the original pieces and everything that was removed can be replaced/ reverted back to original.
I have too much fun riding this bike which is why I don't restore it cosmetically now. I want to continue enjoying riding it for some time to come."
The suspension is vastly smoother, though, it was redone by RG3. (It was set up by the previous rider who was my size and weight, so whatever he did works great for me)
It's a softer ride so the bumps are much less noticable. Whereas the older one is almost "bone jarring" through rough terrain, this one soaks it up like a cadillac, allowing me to stay in control and go faster.
It is a smaller bike, so it feels more nimble, too. It's helpful for where I ride as there's a fair amount of tight turns. It feels much lighter, too, again helping in this type of terrain. Not to mention the shorter fork angle.
It has good power also. I won't say it's more powerful than the 390, but it's not far behind it. Good torque for a 250 and a smooth powerband all the way through. No "on or off" as many other brands seem to be. The power is there when you want it and it gives you only as much as you ask for. If I added a steering stabilizer I'm sure it'd be that much better.
The 390, on the other hand, I'm sure has more overall power but it's harder to ride (fast) in the tight trails at Gorman. It has a big, soft seat which new bikes lack (for when I'm feeling lazy) and the long wheelbase/ fork angle is helpful for those sand washes.
Plus, there's the nostalgia and cool factor of riding a vintage bike that no new bike can ever have. It's fun having several guys walk up to me just to check out the bike at the campsite.
I don't see too many Husky's up where I ride. Out of the 3+ years I've ridden there I can still count on one hand all the other Husky's I've ever seen up there. I like not having a "me too" bike.