KIWI RIDER 12 2019 VOL2 | Page 95

HUSQVARNA CONFIRMS NORDEN FOR FULL PRODUCTION A fter making its debut at this year’s EICMA show in Milan (and covered in the last issue of KR), it was only a matter of time before Husqvarna gave up all pretence that the Norden 901 was a concept motorcycle only. It turns out the Austro-Swedish brand is moving quickly to get its first adventure class machine to market to battle it out with the rest of the 2020 European middleweight adventurers, with Husqvarna confirming this month that the Norden 901 is about to enter production. “Following the extremely successful unveiling of the NORDEN 901 Concept model at EICMA, Husqvarna Motorcycles are pleased to announce that this exciting, new twin- cylinder machine will go into production,” the company announced in a statement. The NORDEN 901 has already received high levels of interest from its public debut. Now set to become a key addition to Husqvarna Motorcycles’ street line-up, the versatile long- distance traveller will offer the adventure category Husqvarna’s unique design approach along with a balance of practical accessibility and comfort. Based around the updated 889cc LC8c parallel twin which debuted in the new KTM 890 Duke R, the Norden packs plenty of adventure specs to as the tagline goes, “Broaden your horizon”. While detailed specs are still to be made public, including which of the clever features will make it to the final product (we’re hoping the stacked TFT displays do), Husqvarna is making bold claims regarding the ability of the Norden. In its press release, Husqvarna says the Norden will “deliver both outstanding street and offroad performance mixed with class-leading lightness and power delivery is set in a versatile and accessible package, precisely arranged to allow discerning riders uncompromised exploration possibilities. Delivering effortless rideability and high-end modern equipment the NORDEN 901 can be used on daily commutes, extended adventures and everything in between.” Sounds good to us. KIWI RIDER 95