It used to be called the 701, running a 692cc fuel-injected single but now the new Vitpilen from Husqvarna is designated 801. That’s because it progresses to a parallel twin 799cc engine shared with owner KTM. The Vitpilen 801 is coming here in January 2025 – no prices yet – and will be available in two colour options. Numbers will be limited, however.
New for Vitpilen 801 – the name is the giveaway – is the DOHC, 799 cc parallel-twin engine. Weighing 52kg dry, the powerplant generates 78kW at 9250 rpm and 87Nm of torque at 8000 rpm. Special features include active crankcase evacuation and a semi-dry sump lubrication system. These evidently permit extended service intervals of 15,000km, according to Husqvarna.
Electronic rider aids and additional layers of customisation characterise the Vitpilen 801. The four ride modes alter the engine performance, with Street, Sport and Rain having pre-set parameters. Dynamic mode is customisable, with 10 levels of selectable TC intervention. Together with Easy Shift (up and down quickshifter), cornering ABS, and cornering traction control, the street riding experience stresses safety in all conditions.
Read our Review of the Husqvarna Vitpilen 701.
The engine acts as a stressed member of the chromoly steel frame, saving weight and resulting in an agile yet stable feel on road. adjustable WP Apex suspension enhances the connection between the bike and the tarmac. This offers 140mm of fork travel while shock movement is 150mm. Michelin Road 6 tyres surround the 801’s cast alloy 17-inch wheels, ensuring high grip levels.
A J.Juan brake system handles stopping duties, under control of Bosch ABS. A slipper clutch aids stability under heavy braking and also optimises traction under hard acceleration.
A five-inch TFT dashboard keeps the rider abreast of things. It features an optically bonded mineral glass display to prevent glare. The dial is positioned just in front of the handlebars. After downloading the Ride Husqvarna Motorcycles app, the user’s smartphone hooks up to the connectivity unit, offering turn-by-turn navigation, while also enabling phone calls and music selection.
These include new bi-LED projector lens headlights with a separate DRL light, a switchable Supermoto mode, ride-by-wire throttle, hazard warning switch, and a range of genuine accessories.
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