Husqvarna is set to bolster its road-bike offerings with a new 901 platform, which is expected to use parent company KTM’s ‘890’ powertrain.
The Swedish bikemaker revealed its Norden 901 Concept last year, which will mark the brand’s entry into the adventure bike category when the production version launches globally.
It has yet to officially announce technical details regarding the new bike, although it is expected to utilise the platform for at least one other model.
Recently, overseas publication RideApart surfaced images of Husqvarna testing what could be the new Svartpilen 901 model, which will sit above the current Svartpilen 401 and Svartpilen 701 in the brand’s line-up.
Images show two different windscreen designs, so the Svartpilen 901 may be joined by a similar Vitpilen variant, as with the 401 and 701.
The test mules feature a parallel-twin with KTM badging, which is likely the 890cc motor found in the recently revealed KTM 890 Duke R.
While the Husqvarna will likely sport a unique tune, we know the engine is capable of producing at least 90kW (121hp) and 99Nm.
Either way, it will surely be a big leap from the current 701 Svartpilen model, which makes around 56kW (75hp) and 72Nm.
While it has had modest success in Australia, the Svartpilen/Vitpilen range was lauded for its distinctive, stripped back styling when it debuted in 2016.
It is expected that the uprated model will continue this theme, with the Vitpilen sporting cafe racer-esque design elements, and the Svartpilen featuring more upright, scrambler ergonomics.
Spencer has a keen eye for hard news, and does some of his best living on deadline day. He loves more than anything to travel on his motorcycle, and is adamant that Melbourne Bitter is a world-class lager. He also knows how to operate the big computery thing in the office. By night, Spencer plays guitar with Melbourne punk outfit LOUTS.
