Husqvarna confirms a larger Svartpilen is returning to their model lineup in 2024 in the form of the all-new Svartpilen 801.
It's been a while since we saw a new road-going Husqvarna model debut, but that's precisely what is on the cards later this month when the wraps come off the new Husqvarna Svartpilen 801.
Set to join the Norden as the brand's second twin-cylinder model, the new Svartpilen is touting some pretty impressive specs behind its rather attractive (even in full preproduction camo) bodywork. Previously, the Svartpilen 701 was visually distinct to put it nicely. The new 801 version takes a more traditional approach to styling but still retains the fuel tank bulges that made the previous Svartpilen and Vitpilen stand out from the crowd.
Weighing in at just 181 kg and powered by an LC8c parallel-twin engine producing 105 hp, the Svartpilen 801 offers what is sure to be a fun-filled power-to-weight ratio. Husqvarna is yet to confirm which version of the LC8c engine the 801 is using, but going by previous Husqvarna naming conventions, our assumption is this will be using the smaller capacity 790cc unit rather than the 890 or 990 versions.
While Husqvarna hasn't confirmed which engine will power the 801, Australian representative Rosie Lalonde has confirmed to OnThrottle that the new Svartpilen 801 will be assembled in the KTM Group's Austrian factory.
As we've come to expect from Husqvarna, the Svartpilen 801 will come with a full suite of electronic rider aids. So far confirmed to be included in the tech offering is an Easy Shift quickshifter for seamless gear changes, as standard. While the rest of the electronics package is yet to be confirmed, Husqvarna is claiming the Svartpilen 801 will feature a class-leading technology package that maximises the riding experience and safety throughout every ride.
As part of an extensive testing process, the Svartpilen 801 prototype was ridden on both a flat-track oval and an ice track. This diverse program of sideways action and stunning ice rides on spiked tyres played a vital role in developing a truly versatile motorcycle that encourages you to escape the ordinary.
Like its predecessor, the Svartpilen 801 takes its aesthetic inspiration from the scrambler genre. Slimline ergonomic bodywork wraps neatly around the engine and frame for unrestricted movement while the steering damper and the obligatory adjustable WP suspension take hits from whatever road surface the rider decides to tackle.
Interestingly, rather than the spoked wheels the Svartpilen 401 enjoys as standard, the prototype of the Svartpilen 801 rolls on cast alloy wheels. Whether Husqvarna will offer the bike with the tougher spoked rims for riders wanting to lean further into the brand's off-road heritage without going the whole hog and getting a Norden 901 will hopefully be revealed on March 19th when the Svartpilen 801's full specification and technical data are made public.
Watch this space!