When Husqvarna unveiled the prototypes for what are now known as the Vitpilen 401 and Vitpilen 701, you would have thought the KTM-owned marque had reinvented the motorcycle, so dramatic was the reaction to the overall look and feel of these single-cylinder, steel-trellis-framed machines. Indeed, the smaller of the two Vitpilens is a bespoke piece of lightweight hardware designed for riders who want to make a strong statement. The 401 features racy ergonomics with clip-on-style handlebars, a short wheelbase, and a torquey engine to make short work of even the heaviest urban traffic.
The 401 shares its powerplant with the KTM 390 Duke naked bike and the fully faired RC390. Output, as you would expect, is virtually identical, but the Vitpilen—and its high-handlebar, knobby-tired sibling, the Svartpilen—stickers for $800 more than the Duke. In fact, Husky’s smallest streetbike is the most expensive bike in the category, despite the fact that it is slightly rough around the edges. There remains, however, a lot to like and for 2019 the Vitpilen returns with no significant mechanical or styling updates.
Likes: Sleek, low-slung, and ready to play in the street or on the track
Dislikes: Touchy throttle response and springy suspension
Verdict: As entertaining to ride as it is to look at with a price to match
We tested the Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 alongside the KTM 390 Duke—which is powered by the same single-cylinder engine and likewise has a steel-tube frame—and the new Honda CB300R. “With its long white torso, shapely stepped seat, and elegant wire-spoked wheels, the Vitpilen 401 is a motorcycle that commands attention.”
The Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 has some stout competition, namely the KTM 390 Duke and Honda CB300R. The BMW G310R is another similarly equipped single-cylinder model, even if it is styled more to resemble the R1250GS adventure bike rather than a vintage roadracer or a refugee from a supermoto camp.
The Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 is currently available in one color: semi-gloss white with eye-catching fluorescent-yellow striping on the gas tank and tailsection, radiator, and the edges of the wheel rims. Husqvarna offers a variety of accessories with which to make this motorcycle your own, including a Rekluse automatic clutch.
Manufacturer Claimed Specifications
Cycle World Tested Specifications
