Holloway ratings
Four separate scores, not one blended number, so you can see what's actually driving it.
Full specs
Where the SWM RS 500 R sits
Wet weight against ground clearance for every bike in the finder that publishes both. Light and tall, top left, is where the easiest green lane bikes sit. Tap a dot to open that bike.
Figures are manufacturer claims. Clearance is measured differently by different makers, so treat small gaps as a draw.
Will your feet reach?
The SWM RS 500 R has a 955mm seat. Enter your inside leg for a rough idea of how much foot you'll get down when stopped.
A rough guide only. A wide seat needs more leg than a narrow one, the suspension settles 20 to 40mm under you, and boots add a little. Many bikes offer a low seat or lowering link. Sit on one before you buy.
Range against similar bikes
Real-world range from tank size and typical economy, against the bikes closest to it in weight and type. Out on the lanes, fuel stops are often further apart than on a road ride.
Range only. Hard off-road riding and headwinds use more fuel, so plan fuel stops with margin.
Tyres that fit the SWM RS 500 R
It runs a 90/90-21 front and a 140/80-18 rear. 43 tyres in our Tyre Finder are made in at least one of those sizes, ranked by green lane score.
Sizes are for the standard UK model and can change between model years. Check the size on your own tyre sidewall, and ask your dealer before fitting a different size. Our size lists come from maker and retailer listings and can miss sizes, so a tyre shown for one end may still be made in your other size. Check the maker's size chart.
Compare the SWM RS 500 R
What we actually found
The SWM RS 500 R is a classic, no-nonsense European enduro machine produced in the former Husqvarna factory in Biandronno, Italy. Built on the proven Husqvarna TE510 platform, it provides raw, analogue off-road capability. Its 501cc single-cylinder engine has immense bottom-end tractor torque that crawls up slimy, boulder-strewn climbs in second gear without breaking a sweat. At just 130kg wet, it skips across ruts and washouts where multi-cylinder adventure bikes struggle. It's compromised on long motorway journeys due to its tiny tank and firm seat, but as a pure trail and green lane machine, it offers strong performance per pound.
Pros for green laning
- Featherweight 130kg wet weight: built on the proven Italian Husqvarna TE510 platform, making it one of the lightest 500cc dual-sports available.
- Competition Kayaba suspension: 48mm fully adjustable KYB forks provide 300mm front / 295mm rear travel and 300mm ground clearance.
- Tractor-pull 501cc single: produces 51hp and 47Nm with immense bottom-end grunt for tackling steep, rocky climbs in second gear.
- Affordable purchase price: high-spec European hardware (Brembo brakes, KYB suspension, Michelin tyres) for roughly £6,499 new.
Cons and limitations
- Tiny 7.2-litre fuel tank: range is limited to ~75-85 miles before needing fuel, requiring a backpack fuel bladder or aftermarket tank for long lane routes.
- Towering 955mm seat height: an extremely tall perch makes dabbing feet on uneven ground difficult for all but the tallest riders.
- Frequent service intervals: requires oil changes every 2,000 miles due to its high-performance competition engine heritage.
- Harsh on tarmac links: a narrow race seat and engine vibration make prolonged 70mph motorway links physically punishing.
Based on manufacturer specifications and independent motorcycle press reviews.
Find where to actually ride it
Browse legal green lanes and byways across England and Wales, filtered by difficulty, on Holloway's map.
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