Husqvarna has fully revealed the all-new production Svartpilen 801 which is expected to be released in New Zealand in August of 2024.
While pricing is yet to be announced by Husqvarna Motorcycles New Zealand, the new Svartpilen looks to be one of the most attractive bikes in the range for a wide set of Kiwi motorcyclists.
Previously, since the single-cylinder LC4-powered Svartpilen and Vitpilen left the lineup Husqvarna's only mainstream large-capacity offering has been the Norden 901 adventure bike, with the rest of the Swedish brand's range heavily leaning towards the dirt side of the market. The new "scrambler-inspired" Svartpilen 801 is set to change that with its LC8c parallel-twin engine, cast alloy wheels and truly appealing styling.
In its press release, Husqvarna states that the new Svartpilen 801 is "engineered to elevate the road riding experience and escape the ordinary, this exceptional motorcycle sets a new standard of excellence for middleweight street models."
Weighing 181 kg without fuel, the Svartpilen 801 is built around a strong and light chromium-molybdenum tubular steel frame for a precise balance of flex and rigidity.
As its name implies, at its heart is the 799 cc version of the LC8c engine which is now offered in three capacities across the Husqvarna and KTM ranges. Tipping the scales at 52 kg dry, the engine offers a peak power output of 105 hp and 87Nm Husqvarna is touting the engine's reliability and efficiency as "guaranteed by innovative technologies that extend service intervals to 15,000 km and ensure an extremely low fuel consumption."
Showing its road focus despite its scrambler inspiration is a set of cast alloy 17-inch wheels wrapped in Pirelli MT60 RS tyres.
Suspension and brakes are at the premium end of the spectrum with adjustable WP Apex suspension components handling bumps in the road with 140/150mm of travel respectively, whilst J. Juan brake calipers handle stopping duties.
Tech-wise, Husqvarna has ensured the new Svartpilen lives up to the standards set by its LAMS-approved counterpart - the Svartpilen 401 - with the 801 receiving a comprehensive tech package that includes a 5" TFT screen through which everything is controlled.
Pairing the TFT with the Ride Husqvarna Motorcycles app allows for clear Turn-by-Turn navigation to be displayed on the dash, as well as the ability to control telephone calls and music selection. A Hazard Warning system is also integrated into the handlebar controls while anti-theft protection is provided via the factory immobiliser.
Included in the build is Husqvarna's "easy shift" quickshifter as standard, LED lighting, adjustable Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC) and ABS, Street, Rain, and Sport ride modes are pre-set options as standard equipment. For advanced riders, a Supermoto ABS mode is also baked in and can be engaged by those looking for a bit more of a thrill in addition to more direct control over the braking system.
Riders wanting even more can opt for the Dynamic Pack which introduces Motor Slip Regulation (MSR) for controlled deceleration with the Anti-Wheelie mode limiting the maximum wheelie angle for extra safety.
While the Svartpilen 801 looks to finally see a more mainstream motorcycling option from Husqvarna on offer in the mid-capacity segment, whether we will see the traditional sister bike - the Vitpilen - also receive the 801 treatment is yet to be revealed.