Husqvarna Vitpilen 801 Review: Funky Roadster for Sunday Rides?

Overall Rating

Husqvarna Vitpilen 801: A Refined Roadster

The Husqvarna Vitpilen 801 is a stylish roadster that builds upon the foundation of its predecessor, the Vitpilen 701, and shares a strong resemblance to its sibling, the Svartpilen 801.

Key Differences: Style and Purpose

While both models are powered by the same 799cc parallel-twin engine, their aesthetics and intended usage differ significantly. The Vitpilen 801, true to its name (white arrow), embraces a pure roadster aesthetic. It features:

Slick, minimalist design: Smooth lines, a low-slung profile, and a compact tail section.
Sporty riding position: Clip-on handlebars and a low seat height for an aggressive, forward-leaning stance.
Road-focused tires: Smooth tread pattern optimized for grip on paved surfaces.

Important Note: The Svartpilen 801, on the other hand, adopts a street scrambler persona with its higher handlebars, knobby tires, and rugged styling, making it suitable for light off-road adventures.

Engine and Performance

Both the Vitpilen 801 and Svartpilen 801 are powered by a liquid-cooled, 799cc parallel-twin engine producing approximately 95 horsepower and 80 Nm of torque. This engine delivers a punchy and responsive ride, making it enjoyable for both spirited city commutes and weekend excursions.

Technical Specifications

Feature	Specification
Engine	799cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin
Power	95 hp
Torque	80 Nm
Transmission	6-speed manual
Weight	Approximately 180 kg
Fuel Tank Capacity	12 liters

Practical Implications

The Vitpilen 801's sleek design and sporty riding position appeal to urban riders seeking an aggressive and stylish motorcycle. Its powerful engine and responsive handling provide exhilarating performance, while its compact size allows for easy maneuverability in tight spaces.

Overall Rating

Design and Styling Enhancements

The motorcycle boasts a refined aesthetic, characterized by several key design changes. The most notable is its new round LED headlight, offering a futuristic appearance and improved illumination.

LED Headlight: This feature provides enhanced visibility and a modern aesthetic.
- Pros: Increased brightness and longevity compared to traditional halogen bulbs.
- Cons: Can be more expensive to replace.

Chassis and Suspension Modifications

The motorcycle features a revised chassis setup aimed at enhancing handling and performance.

Street Tyres: These tyres offer a good balance of grip and comfort for everyday riding.
Firmer Suspension Internals: This provides a more responsive and controlled ride, especially during cornering.
Lower Bars: This modification contributes to a sportier riding position and improved handling.

Additional Details and Customization Options

Further refinements include:

Radiator Cover, Heel Guard, and Front Mudguard: These components offer practicality and a more polished look.
Black End Can and Subframe: These elements add a touch of darkness and sportiness.
Yellow Highlight in Rear Seat: This bold accent adds a pop of color and distinguishes the motorcycle.

Color Options

The motorcycle is available in two striking color options:

Grey: A classic and sophisticated choice.
Sunglasses-Bright Yellow: A vibrant and eye-catching option.

Key Takeaways

The motorcycle features a redesigned front end with a modern LED headlight.
The chassis and suspension have been revised for improved handling and performance.
Several detail changes contribute to a more refined and sporty look.
Two vibrant color options cater to diverse tastes.

Overall Rating

A Sport Naked with a Bite: [Motorcycle Name] Review

This motorcycle embodies the quintessential sport naked philosophy, vying for attention alongside celebrated contenders such as the Triumph Street Triple 765, Yamaha MT-09, Ducati Monster, and KTM Duke 790.

Performance and Handling

The [Motorcycle Name] boasts a powerful engine with [engine specifications, e.g., displacement, horsepower, torque], providing thrilling acceleration and punchy performance across the rev range. Its lightweight construction, [specific weight details], contributes significantly to its agile handling. The [suspension details, e.g., brand and type] ensures a balanced and responsive ride, making it a joy to carve through corners.

Features and Ergonomics

This machine is well-equipped, offering features such as [list key features, e.g., ride modes, traction control, electronic throttle]. The rider ergonomics are commendable, providing a comfortable and relatively spacious seating position.

Design and Style

The [Motorcycle Name] possesses a unique and eye-catching design language, setting it apart from the competition. The [describe key design elements, e.g., sharp lines, distinctive headlight, muscular tank].

Key Takeaways

Pros: Powerful engine, agile handling, stylish design, and excellent features.
Cons: The seat can be uncomfortable on long rides.

Important Notes: While its overall performance is impressive, its [mention any drawbacks, e.g., fuel economy, limited luggage capacity] may be a point of consideration for some riders.

Practical Implications: This motorcycle is a great choice for riders seeking a thrilling and engaging riding experience. It's ideal for spirited backroad riding and track days, while still being manageable for everyday commuting.

Comparison to Competitors:
* Compared to the [name of competitor], the [Motorcycle Name] offers a more [compare based on key features, e.g., powerful, affordable, sporty] experience.
* The [Motorcycle Name] stands out from the [name of competitor] with its [highlight differentiating features, e.g., unique design, lighter weight].

Ride Quality & Brakes

Chassis and Suspension

The Husqvarna 701 Supermoto boasts a 790 Duke-inspired tubular steel chassis, a design known for its rigidity and responsiveness. This foundation is complemented by high-quality, adjustable WP suspension, offering precise feedback and control.

Technical Specifications:

Chassis: Tubular steel frame
Suspension:
- Front: WP Xplor 48 mm USD fork, fully adjustable
- Rear: WP Monoshock, fully adjustable

Key Takeaways:

Adjustable Suspension: The adjustable nature of both the front and rear suspension allows riders to fine-tune the bike's handling to their preferences and riding conditions.
Feedback and Control: The WP suspension provides a high level of feedback, allowing riders to accurately gauge the bike's behavior and adjust their riding accordingly.

Handling and Steering

While the 701 Supermoto exhibits a slightly slower steering response compared to some of its rivals, this can be attributed to its inherent character. The wide handlebars and sporty naked design make it incredibly agile on winding roads. However, it requires more rider input than some competitors, demanding a more engaged and active riding style.

Practical Implications:

B Road Domination: The 701 Supermoto's agility makes it an excellent choice for navigating tight corners and enjoying spirited riding on winding roads.
Rider Involvement: The bike's handling characteristics encourage a more active and involved riding style, rewarding riders with a more engaging experience.

Note: The 701 Supermoto's steering response is a trade-off for its stability and composure, particularly at higher speeds.

Ride Quality & Brakes

Handling Corners with Confidence

The Vitpilen 801 excels in its handling, offering a reassuring sense of stability both in a straight line and at full lean. Its low-slung design contributes to a feeling of confidence while cornering.

Ergonomics and Comfort

Pegs: The Vitpilen 801 features low-set pegs, allowing for ample ground clearance while maintaining a comfortable riding position.
Handlebars: The handlebars, similar in position to the 1390 Super Duke R, are low enough to provide sufficient front-end weight without compromising rider comfort.
Seat: While less padded than the Svartpilen 801, the Vitpilen 801's seat offers surprisingly good comfort for extended rides, allowing for 4-5 hours of comfortable riding before discomfort becomes noticeable.

Key Takeaways

The Vitpilen 801's handling is characterized by its stability, even at full lean angles.
The low-set pegs, handlebars, and comfortable seat contribute to a balanced and enjoyable riding experience.

Ride Quality & Brakes

Michelin Power 6: A Good Fit for the Vitpilen 801?

The Vitpilen 801, with its sharp design and sporty aspirations, comes equipped with Michelin Power 6 tires. These tires, designed for sport touring, offer a balance of grip and comfort suitable for everyday riding and occasional long trips. However, for a bike with the Vitpilen's performance potential, a more track-focused tire might be a better choice.

Michelin Power 6 Features:

Compound: The Power 6 utilizes a dual compound construction, with a softer compound on the shoulders for enhanced grip during cornering and a harder center compound for increased longevity and stability at higher speeds.
Construction: The tire features a radial construction, providing a balance of handling precision and shock absorption.
Tread Pattern: The Power 6 features a tread pattern designed for wet and dry grip, with grooves to channel away water and a continuous center rib for stability.

Key Takeaways:

While the Power 6 offers predictable handling and stability, its focus on touring comfort might limit the Vitpilen's full performance potential.
For riders seeking maximum grip and responsiveness on the track or twisty roads, a sportier tire like the Michelin Power Cup 2 would be a more appropriate choice.

Practical Implications:

Switching to a sportier tire would allow the Vitpilen 801 to unleash its true handling capabilities, providing a more engaging and thrilling ride experience, particularly on winding roads.

Comparison:

Michelin Power 6: Pros: Comfortable, long-lasting, good wet grip. Cons: Might not offer the sharpest turn-in and grip for track-focused riding.
Michelin Power Cup 2: Pros: Exceptional grip, precise handling, track-day capability. Cons: Shorter lifespan, less comfortable for everyday riding.

Ride Quality & Brakes

Front Brake Performance on the KTM Vitpilen 801

The front brakes on the KTM Vitpilen 801, while functional, fall short of the expectations set by KTM's reputation for powerful and responsive braking systems.

Lack of Stopping Power and Feel

Lever Pressure: The Vitpilen 801 requires significantly more lever pressure than anticipated to achieve adequate deceleration. This can be attributed to the relatively small brake discs (likely 320mm in diameter), which are less efficient at dissipating heat compared to larger units. This translates to a less confidence-inspiring braking experience, especially during spirited riding or prolonged braking.
Subpar Feel: The lack of feedback from the lever hinders the rider's ability to modulate braking force precisely. This compromises both braking efficiency and the overall feel of the stopping system.

Technical Specifications

Front brake system: Single disc, likely 320mm in diameter, with a fixed caliper.
Rear brake system: Single disc, likely 230mm in diameter, with a fixed caliper.

Key Takeaway: The Vitpilen 801's front brakes prioritize affordability over performance, resulting in a compromise on stopping power and rider feedback.

Practical Implications

The subpar front brakes can negatively impact the overall riding experience, particularly for experienced riders accustomed to KTM's typically exceptional braking performance. This is especially noticeable during aggressive riding or in demanding situations where the rider needs precise control over braking.

Engine

The Heart of the Beast: The 790 Duke's Engine

The KTM 790 Duke's engine, a 799cc parallel-twin, is a marvel of engineering, borrowed directly from its naked sibling.

Technical Specifications:

Displacement: 799cc
Bore x Stroke: 89 x 60.2mm
Power: 105 hp @ 9000 rpm
Torque: 87 Nm @ 7000 rpm
Fuel Injection: Electronic fuel injection with ride-by-wire throttle

Early Engine Issues:

While the engine itself is impressive, a few early models suffered from well-documented issues, primarily related to valve train problems.

Important Note: These issues primarily affected a limited number of early production bikes.

KTM's Response:

KTM has implemented a "goodwill scheme" to address these problems, offering repairs and replacements for affected bikes.

Key Takeaways:

The 790 Duke engine is a powerful and responsive unit, delivering thrilling performance.
While early models experienced some issues, KTM has addressed these problems through a comprehensive solution.

Comparison with Other Parallel Twins

The 790 Duke's engine stands out in the parallel-twin segment for its high-revving nature, delivering a more engaging and sporty experience compared to the smoother, torque-heavy characteristics of some competitors like the Triumph Street Triple.

Practical Implications:

The 790 Duke's engine is ideal for riders who prioritize an exhilarating and responsive ride, making it a popular choice for both experienced riders and those looking for a playful and engaging motorcycle.

Engine

Husqvarna Motorcycles: A Focus on Rideability

Husqvarna motorcycles, known for their Swedish heritage and distinctive design, are often described as more laid-back than their KTM counterparts. This translates to a different riding experience, characterized by:

Engine Character: Though powerful, the Husqvarna engines are tuned for a smoother, more manageable power delivery, often described as "linear" or "progressive." This makes them ideal for everyday riding and beginners, while still providing ample power for aggressive riding when needed.
Chassis Design: Husqvarna models typically feature a more relaxed geometry, with a slightly longer wheelbase and more forgiving suspension settings. This makes them more stable at high speeds and comfortable on rough terrain.

Key Takeaways

Target Audience: Husqvarna motorcycles are often favored by riders who prioritize a comfortable and manageable ride over raw power.
Real-World Applications: These motorcycles are well-suited for a variety of riding styles, including trail riding, enduro, and even street use.

Comparison with KTM

While both brands share the same parent company (Pierer Mobility AG), they cater to different rider preferences. KTM motorcycles are known for their aggressive performance and cutting-edge technology, while Husqvarnas prioritize a more user-friendly and forgiving experience.

Important Note: This rewrite focuses on the general characteristics of Husqvarna motorcycles. Specific models may vary in their engine specifications, suspension settings, and other details.

Engine

Power Delivery and Riding Modes

The 801's power delivery is characterized by its smooth and progressive nature, offering a more refined experience compared to the aggressive power delivery of the 790 and 890 Duke models. While still potent and engaging, it lacks the raw, unfiltered aggression of its more powerful 990 counterpart.

Throttle Response: Three standard riding modes (Street, Sport, Rain) are available, allowing riders to tailor throttle response to their preference and riding conditions.
- Sport mode provides the sharpest response, ideal for spirited riding.
- Street mode offers a balanced approach, suitable for everyday riding.
- Rain mode delivers a mellow and predictable throttle response, ideal for slippery conditions.
Cornering Traction Control: The 801 features a 10-stage cornering traction control system, providing a high level of confidence and rider support in various conditions.

Advanced Features

The 801 offers optional features designed to enhance performance and rider comfort:

Dynamic Mode: This optional mode allows fine-tuning of wheelie control and engine braking, offering a greater level of control and customization.
Up/Down Quickshifter: The quickshifter enables seamless and clutchless gear changes, improving both performance and rider experience.

Key Takeaways

The 801 balances power and refinement, offering a smooth and engaging riding experience.
Its riding modes and traction control provide a high level of customization and rider support.
Optional features like Dynamic mode and the quickshifter further enhance performance and control.

Reliability & Build Quality

Engine Durability: Learning from KTM's Experience

The Husqvarna Vitpilen 801 shares its powerplant with the KTM 790 and 990 Duke models, offering a glimpse into potential long-term reliability.

Key Takeaway: The Vitpilen 801's engine benefits from KTM's extensive experience with the 790/990 platform, inheriting both its strengths and weaknesses.

Engine Details:

Displacement: 799cc parallel-twin
Power Output: Around 105 hp (790 Duke)
Torque: 88 Nm (790 Duke)

Historical Considerations:

Earlier KTM models (pre-2020) experienced camshaft issues. A "goodwill scheme" was implemented to address these problems. More recent models (2020 onwards) have incorporated design improvements to mitigate this issue.

Practical Implications:

Potential Concerns: While the Vitpilen 801 engine benefits from KTM's updates, owners should be aware of the historical camshaft issue and its potential for re-emergence.
Long-Term Reliability: The engine's overall durability will be better understood over time.
Service Intervals: Strictly adhering to recommended maintenance schedules is crucial for maximizing engine life.

Comparison to Similar Technologies:

The parallel-twin configuration is widely used across various motorcycles, offering a blend of power and agility. Direct competitors like the Triumph Street Triple share similar design principles, although their long-term reliability and service intervals may differ.

Reliability & Build Quality

Reliability of KTM Duke Engines and Chassis

The KTM Duke 890 and 990 models have consistently demonstrated strong reliability, with users generally reporting minimal issues.

Engine Performance

890 Duke: This engine is known for its smooth power delivery and overall reliability.
990 Duke: This engine is a powerful unit, known for its strong torque and high-revving capabilities.

Electronics

While generally reliable, some users have reported occasional issues with specific components:

Switchgear: Minor issues like sticking buttons have been observed. Modern switchgear designs often use rubber or silicone buttons which can become sticky in certain weather conditions.
Other Electronic Components: Overall, the electronic systems on both the 890 and 990 Duke models have proven to be reliable.

Chassis

Both models feature robust chassis components:

Frame: The steel trellis frame is known for its rigidity and excellent handling.
Suspension: KTM's WP suspension components are generally well-regarded for their responsiveness and adjustability.

Vitpilen 801: Building on a Foundation of Reliability

The Vitpilen 801 shares many core components with the Duke models, including the engine and chassis. This suggests that the Vitpilen 801 should inherit a similar level of reliability.

Key Takeaways:

KTM Duke models have proven to be generally reliable machines.
Minor issues have been reported with switchgear but are typically isolated cases.
The Vitpilen 801, sharing key components with the Duke line, is expected to demonstrate a high level of reliability as well.

Value vs Rivals

Price Comparison: Husqvarna Vitpilen 801 vs. Competitors

The Husqvarna Vitpilen 801, priced at £10,000+, sits in a competitive segment of the motorcycle market. Here's a breakdown of its pricing relative to key rivals:

Similar Engine, Different Prices

CF Moto 800NK Sport (£5999): While sharing the same 799cc parallel-twin engine, the CF Moto is significantly cheaper, positioning it as a more affordable entry point into the sport roadster segment.
KTM 790 Duke (£7999): The KTM 790 Duke, also sharing the engine, is priced closer to the Vitpilen but remains a more budget-friendly option.

Comparable Pricing, Different Features

Triumph Street Triple R (£10,095): The Triumph Street Triple R offers similar pricing but boasts a higher-revving, triple-cylinder engine for a different riding experience.
Yamaha MT-09 (£10,106): The Yamaha MT-09, a popular choice, offers a powerful and engaging engine, but its design is more aggressive compared to the Vitpilen's minimalistic approach.

Premium Competitors

KTM 990 Duke (£12,999): This KTM model offers a larger engine and more premium features but comes with a higher price tag.
Ducati Monster (£11,585): This Ducati offers Italian styling and performance, but its price reflects its premium brand status.

Key Takeaways

The Husqvarna Vitpilen 801 sits in the middle of the price range for its category, offering a unique blend of minimalist design and performance.
The Vitpilen's pricing is justified by its premium brand image and its focus on minimalist design and high-quality components.
For those seeking a more performance-oriented experience, the KTM 990 Duke offers a significant power boost, though at a premium price.
The CF Moto 800NK Sport provides a more budget-friendly entry point for riders interested in the same engine platform.

Equipment

Vitpilen 801: A Premium Naked Bike with Customizable Features

The Vitpilen 801 is a stylish and capable naked bike that comes standard with a generous helping of premium features.

Standard Equipment

WP Suspension: Fully adjustable WP Apex suspension front and rear provides excellent handling and comfort.
Steering Damper: A WP steering damper helps maintain stability at high speeds.
Radial Brakes: High-performance Brembo radial calipers with 320mm discs offer strong braking performance.
TFT Display: A full-color TFT display provides clear and comprehensive information to the rider.
LED Lighting: LED lighting offers enhanced visibility and a modern look.
Adjustable Tapered Handlebars: The adjustable tapered handlebars allow riders to customize their riding position for optimal comfort.
Slip and Assist Clutch: A slip and assist clutch provides smoother gear changes and reduces lever effort.
Lean-Sensitive Traction Control and ABS: The Vitpilen 801 comes standard with Bosch 9.1 ABS with Supermoto mode, which allows for controlled rear wheel sliding for a more sporty riding experience.

Optional Extras

While the Vitpilen 801 comes with many standard features, there are additional options available for an extra cost:

Up/Down Quickshifter: Enables clutchless gear changes for faster and smoother transitions.
Additional Riding Modes: Offers riders the ability to tailor the bike's performance characteristics to their preferences.
Adjustable Rider Aids: Allows riders to fine-tune the bike's traction control and ABS settings for personalized control.
Cruise Control: Provides a comfortable and convenient cruising experience on long rides.

Key Takeaways

The Vitpilen 801 is a high-quality naked bike with plenty of features. However, riders may need to make additional investments to unlock the full potential of its customization capabilities.