Kiwi Rider March 2024 Vol.2 | Page 84

ROAD NEWS

HUSQVARNA CONFIRMS SVARTPILEN 801 TWIN

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 181kg and powered by the LC8c parallel-twin engine producing 105hp , the Svartpilen 801 offers what is sure to be a funfilled 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 the engine , Australian representative Rosie Lalonde has confirmed that the new Svartpilen 801 will be assembled in the KTM Group ’ s Austrian factory and not by the KTM Groups partner CFMOTO in Asia . 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 classleading 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 programme of sideways action and stunning ice rides on spiked tyres played a vital role in

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