By If you’re looking for a lightweight and stylish motorcycle, the Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 is a great option. It combines modern technology with a unique design that stands out on the road. This review will help you understand its features, performance, and whether it’s worth buying.
With this review guidance, you can encourage yourself to trust this company and its masterpiece bikes.
Why is the Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 Popular?
Husqvarna, originally a Swedish brand, has built a strong reputation for stylish and performance-focused motorcycles. The latest Svartpilen 401 is more refined, practical, and enjoyable to ride thanks to its updated technology and improved ergonomics.
Key Specifications
| Key Specifications | Details |
| Primary drive | 33:86 |
| Secondary gear ratio | 14:45 |
| Bore | 89 mm |
| Starter | Electric starter |
| Power in KW | 33 kW |
| Cooling | Liquid cooled |
| Stroke | 64 mm |
| Transmission | 6-speed |
| EMS | Bosch EMS with RBW |
| Fuel-mixture generation | DKK Dellorto (Throttle body 46mm) |
| Compression ratio | 12.6 |
| Displacement | 398.6 cm³ |
| CO2 emissions | 79 g/km |
| Design | 1-cylinder, 4-stroke engine |
| Tank capacity (approx.) | 13 l |
| Chain | 520 X-Ring |
| Weight (without fuel) | 159 kg |
| Diameter of rear brake disc | 240 mm |
| Diameter of front brake disc | 320 mm |
| Front suspension | WP APEX 43 |
| Wheelbase | 1368 mm |
| Front brake | ByBre, opposed four-piston caliper, brake disc |
| Rear brake | ByBre, twin-piston, floating caliper, brake disc |
| Lubrication | Wet sump |
| Design of the frame | Powder-coated, steel trellis frame |
| Clearance of Ground | 180 mm |
| Height of seat | 820 mm |
| Handlebar | Aluminum |
| Rear suspension | Monoshock, WP APEX |
| Angle of the steering head | 66 ° |
| Silencer | Stainless steel silencer with a regulated catalytic converter |
| Rare suspension travel | 150 mm |
| Wheels | Spoked wheels with aluminium rims |
| Front suspension travel | 150 mm |
| Rear subframe design | Steel trellis frame, powder-coated |
| Wheels | 3 x 17″; 4 x 17″ |
| Tyre dimensions (front/rear) | 110/70; 150/60 |
Where is the Svartpilen 401 Made: Historical Review
The Husqvarna dirt bike is a compact scrambler designed by Kiska, inspired by motorcycles from the 1960s and 1970s. Its styling is closely based on the concept first revealed at EICMA 2014. The name also reflects Husqvarna’s heritage, drawing inspiration from classic models like the Guldpilen and Silverpilen from the early 1950s.
Along with the Vitpilen, the Svartpilen played an important role in the brand’s revival after KTM took over in 2013. Most of the engine and chassis components come from KTM, with production plans confirmed shortly after.
The final production version was unveiled at EICMA in November 2016, along with the announcement of manufacturing at KTM’s Mattighofen plant starting in 2017.
A few key highlights from this stage include:
- The 390cc single-cylinder KTM engine is produced in India
- The production model was officially revealed at EICMA 2016
- Manufacturing was planned at KTM’s factory in Austria
Later, due to logistical delays, the 401 was reintroduced at EICMA 2017, where pricing details were also shared. At the same event, Husqvarna also showcased the 701 model, powered by a liquid-cooled 692.7cc KTM LC4 single-cylinder engine.
The production journey continued as follows:
- Svartpilen 401 production began in early 2018
- The 701-model arrived shortly after
- A 250cc version was added in 2019 for Asian markets
- The 250-variant launched in India in February 2020
- The 248.76cc KTM engine is also built in India
In December 2019, production of the Vitpilen 401 and Svartpilen 401 shifted to Bajaj Auto’s Chakan facility in India. This plant also manufactures KTM’s 390 series, which shares the same engine platform.
Bajaj later introduced the 125cc version in 2021 for global markets. By 2024, the 401 model officially entered the Indian market, while the Vitpilen line continued in the 250cc segment.
Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 Features and Specifications (2026)
- Exterior
The Svartpilen 401 features a modern yet rugged design. Its lightweight body and minimal styling make it easy to handle, while elements like the skid plate and rugged tyres give it a strong street scrambler look.
- Lights
Its rear LED and new front lights offer improved illumination, especially in low-light conditions. Riding through urban areas is safer for other road users and the rider because of its latest LED technology that enhances visibility and lighting performance.
- Handlebar
In this bike, off-road style risers and handlebars are fitted together with forged, stylish aluminium triple clamps. The handlebar-mounted dashboard has a large 5” TFT display, which demonstrates essential details like fuel level, speed, selected gear, and riding mode, to keep the minimalistic look with authentic design.
- Single Cylinder
A single-cylinder, new engine is fitted in this bike that is lighter in weight and larger in displacement as compared to the previous generation.
- Brakes
Hydraulic ByBre brake calipers are fitted in Svartpilen 401 with front disc of 320 mm and rear disc of 240 mm. Each component is manufactured to the highest standard to ensure confidence-inspiring and controllable braking performance.
- Easy Shift
All gear modifications of this high-end motorcycle are smooth to the possible end. When the EMS registers movement on the gear level, it limits power momentarily, which ensures smooth gear modifications.
- TFT dashboard
Riders can see valuable information with a new, improved 5” TFT dashboard and bonded glass screen. All the details are clearly visible, like fuel level, travelling speed, and the selected gear.
- Anti-Theft
An immobilizer is fitted in the Svartpilen 401 to provide anti-theft safety.
- Connectivity
Riders can enhance their riding experience with the Connectivity Unit and many other functions that are fitted in this masterpiece. You can even get each instruction on the dashboard of this bike with the help of the Ride Husqvarna Motorcycle app. Riders can reduce their boredom during travel by playing music with a Smartphone Bluetooth connection.
- Ergonomics
To enhance the riding experience, revised ergonomics are introduced in it. Stability is improved with a slightly longer wheelbase and the lower seat height of 15 mm, which places the rider closer to the centre of gravity.
- Frame
The new steel trellis frame is a basic element of the agility and character for Svartpilen 401. To establish a frame that is strong and light in weight, hydro-formed tubes are welded into it.
- Suspension
In Svartpilen 401, the WP suspension is created with the highest level of craftsmanship and quality.
Engine Performance
The 399cc single-cylinder engine delivers strong and responsive performance. It performs best at higher RPMs and offers a smooth riding experience, making it suitable for both city rides and highways.
The engine responds best to plenty of revs, with the single cylinder that makes it natural and more vibey. The more vibrations calm down, as the higher you are in the revs, with the standard fitment quick shifter and autoblipper work as the ideal partner to approach optimum RPMs quickly.
Build Quality and Reliability
It is not easy to discuss the reliability at this level, being an almost completely new motorcycle for 2024. This test bike can suffer from some occasional cutting out issues, but without fuss, it fired back into life every time. The company offers a 24-month warranty for its road-going bikes.
Pricing Range
| Annual service cost | £200 |
| Annual road tax | £59 |
| Used price | £3,600 – £4,300 |
| New price | £5,599 |
| Warranty | 2 Years |
If you are hunting for Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 for sale, here are the estimated prices:
- USA: $5,500 – $6,000
- India: ₹2.9 – ₹3.2 lakh
- Europe: €5,000 – €6,000
On the basis of location and dealership, prices may vary.
2024 Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 vs Older Models
| Feature | 2024 Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 | Older Models of 2018–2023 |
| Engine Efficiency | New 399cc single-cylinder engine with stronger mid-range power | 373cc single-cylinder engine |
| Ability to Deliver Power | Smoother throttle response with improved refinement | More aggressive but less refined feel |
| Chassis | Completely new steel trellis frame | Previous-generation trellis frame |
| Swingarm | New cast aluminum swingarm for better balance | Older steel/aluminum setup |
| Suspension | Adjustable WP Apex forks and rear shock | WP suspension, less advanced tuning |
| Seat Height | Lower seat height for easier accessibility | Taller seat position |
| Comfort | More spacious ergonomics and improved riding posture | Compact riding triangle |
| Wheelbase | Slightly longer for better highway stability | Shorter for quicker city handling |
| Weight | Slightly heavier than older version | Lighter overall |
| Electronics | Ride modes, traction control, cornering ABS, quickshifter | Basic ABS, fewer rider aids |
| Display | New 5-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity | Smaller LCD/TFT display |
| Exhaust | New underbelly exhaust, lighter and cleaner design | Side-mounted exhaust |
| Service Intervals | Improved maintenance access and longer intervals | Standard maintenance layout |
| Styling | Cleaner, modern design with subtle updates | More raw, rugged original styling |
| Best For | Riders wanting the latest tech and comfort | Riders preferring a lighter feel and classic Svartpilen design |
| Choose the 2024 Model If You Want | Choose an older model if you want |
| Better technology and smoother performance | Lower price in used market |
| More comfort for daily riding | Lighter, raw riding experience |
| Modern TFT and rider aids | Original iconic Svartpilen styling |
Older models are still appreciated by minimalistic original character lovers, but the 2024 Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 is the updated model yet.
Comparison with Competitors
| Features | Svartpilen 401 | KTM Duke 390 | BMW G310R |
| Engine | 399cc | 398cc | 313cc |
| Power | ~44 HP | ~45 HP | ~34 HP |
| Torque | 39 Nm | 39 Nm | 28 Nm |
| Mileage | 27–30 km/l | 28–30 km/l | 30–35 km/l |
| Top Speed | ~160 km/h | ~177 km/h | ~143 km/h |
How Fast is the Husqvarna Svartpilen 401?
The maximum speed of Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 is about 99mph. It has the ability to increase its speed in just 5.38 seconds up to 100 kmph or 62 mph. This estimation is not guaranteed, but it is the probability of the right circumstances.
For example, things like road type where you are driving, the load you are carrying, and your special riding style can really affect the maximum speed on the road.
Should You Buy the Husqvarna 401 Svartpilen in 2026?
Svartpilen 401 has a worthwhile look for every buyer because it is easy to handle and feels light on the road. This dirt bike stands out in the 399cc part with its agile handling, fun riding character, and premium design.
A modern engine, traction control, ride modes, a TFT display, and ABS have made it ideal and suitable for highway trips and city rides. Its ergonomic improvements and chassis make it more comfortable than earlier models.
Maintenance costs can be slightly higher depending on your location. But if you are searching for modern features, strong performance, and unique styling, the 401 Husqvarna Svartpilen would be an exciting selection for 2026.
What are the pros and cons of buying Husqvarna 401 Svartpilen?
Pros
- Unique premium styling
- Strong performance in its class
- Advanced features and electronics
Cons
- Limited service network
- Slightly expensive maintenance
Not ideal for long-distance touring
Final Thoughts
The Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 has the ability to meet the off-roading needs as well as routine urban commutes that is why it is an excellent motorcycle. Its ideal combination of design, performance, and everyday usability is enough to grab the attention of bike enthusiasts.
These features make it stand out from the crowded marketplace of motorcycles because of its premium feel and modern styling.
FAQs
Can new riders also use the Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 suitably?
Yes, it is suitable for beginners, although its power delivery may feel slightly strong for new riders.
Did its seat feel comfortable for daily commuting?
Yes, the seat is comfortable for daily commuting and short city rides.
Is its resale value also good?
No, its resale value is average.
Is Svartpilen 401 prioritized over Japanese bikes?
It depends on choices, but its styling and features are more advanced, and Japanese bikes are more reliable for long-term use.
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