Husqvarna Nuda 900 [2012-2014]: A Forgotten Gem Between Supermoto and Streetfighter

Introduction

The Husqvarna Nuda 900 is a motorcycle that defies categorization. Born from the unlikely marriage of Swedish heritage, Italian design flair, and BMW engineering, this 2012–2014 model remains a cult classic. With its razor-sharp handling, intoxicating parallel-twin engine, and a design that still turns heads today, the Nuda 900 is a motorcycle that feels like it was engineered for pure riding joy. As someone who recently threw a leg over a well-kept Nuda 900R, I can confirm: this bike is as thrilling as its specs suggest, and it’s a tragedy it was discontinued so soon.

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Design & Ergonomics: Italian Flair Meets Functional Minimalism

The Nuda’s design is a masterclass in purposeful minimalism. The trellis frame isn’t just exposed for show—it’s a structural work of art that shaves weight while adding rigidity. The sculpted fuel tank (actually located under the seat) gives the bike a sleek, almost reptilian profile. Even the headlight, a single aggressive slit, feels like it’s scowling at the road ahead.

At 870mm (34.2 inches), the seat height is tall by naked bike standards, but the narrow chassis lets even average-height riders plant both feet. The riding position is a revelation: upright enough for city commutes, yet leaned forward just enough to feel connected when attacking corners. The R model’s red-and-white livery pays homage to Husqvarna’s racing pedigree, while the standard black version looks stealthy and modern even a decade later.

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Engine & Performance: BMW’s Heart with a Husqvarna Soul

The 898cc parallel twin—a bored-and-stroked version of BMW’s F800R engine—is where the magic happens. With 105 hp @ 8,500 rpm and 100 Nm (73.7 lb-ft) @ 7,000 rpm, this isn’t just a powerful engine; it’s a charismatic one. Thumb the starter, and the dry-sump motor barks to life with a guttural growl that’s more Ducati than BMW.

Two ride modes (switchable via the handlebar) alter throttle response. "Rain" mode tames the beast for wet roads, but "Sport" is where the Nuda truly shines. The power delivery is linear but urgent, pulling hard from 4,000 rpm all the way to the redline. What’s astonishing is how manageable this power is—the engine’s torquey midrange makes it feel like a supermoto, while the top-end rush rivals Japanese inline-fours.

Fueling is crisp, thanks to the ride-by-wire throttle and electronic injection. At highway speeds (100-130 km/h or 62-80 mph), the engine purrs at 5,000 rpm in sixth gear, but it’s always begging to be wound up. The only gripe? The 13-liter (3.4 US gal) fuel tank limits range to about 200 km (124 miles) when ridden enthusiastically.

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Chassis & Handling: Lightweight Precision

Weighing just 174 kg (383.6 lbs) dry, the Nuda 900 feels like a bicycle compared to modern nakeds. The steel trellis frame and aluminum swingarm create a chassis that’s both stiff and communicative. Flicking the bike into corners requires barely a thought—it leans in with the immediacy of a 250cc supersport.

Suspension:
- Nuda 900: 48mm Sachs USD forks (210mm travel) + Sachs rear shock (180mm travel), adjustable for preload and rebound.
- Nuda 900R: Fully adjustable Sachs forks + Öhlins rear shock with ride height adjustment.

Even the standard setup is superb. Over broken pavement, the suspension soaks up bumps without wallowing, while remaining taut enough for aggressive riding. The R model’s Öhlins shock elevates the experience, offering finer damping control for track days or canyon carving.

Brakes: Brembo’s radial monobloc calipers (320mm discs) on the R model deliver surgical stopping power. The standard Nuda’s four-piston Brembos are nearly as potent, with great feel at the lever.

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Riding Experience: Supermoto Meets Streetfighter

Accelerating hard out of a corner, the Nuda’s lightweight chassis and torquey engine create a sensation that’s part hooligan, part precision tool. The wide handlebars offer leverage for quick direction changes, while the steep 24.5° rake and short 1,495mm (58.8-inch) wheelbase make it impossibly agile.

This isn’t a bike that tolerates lazy riding. The engine thrives on revs, the suspension demands commitment, and the upright ergonomics leave you exposed to wind blast above 140 km/h (87 mph). But that’s the point—the Nuda rewards skilled riders with a raw, unfiltered experience that modern electronics-laden bikes often sanitize.

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Competition: How Does the Nuda 900 Stack Up?

In the early 2010s, the Nuda 900 faced fierce rivals:

1. Ducati Hypermotard 939
2. More power (113 hp) but heavier (199 kg dry).

3. Ducati’s V-twin offers character, but the Nuda’s chassis is more agile.

4. KTM 990 Supermoto R

5. Similar weight (183 kg) and power (120 hp), but a rougher, vibey V-twin.

6. KTM’s parts-bin dashboard feels dated next to the Nuda’s minimalist design.

7. Yamaha MT-09 (2014)

8. Cheaper and more practical, but softer suspension and less premium components.
9. The MT’s CP3 triple is smoother, but lacks the Nuda’s aggressive edge.

Verdict: The Nuda 900 carved a niche as a premium lightweight naked. Its blend of BMW reliability, Italian design, and Husqvarna’s racing DNA made it unique—but limited production and Husqvarna’s sale to KTM sealed its fate. Today, it’s a rare alternative for riders wanting exclusivity.

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Maintenance: Keeping the Nuda 900 Thriving

Owners praise the Nuda’s reliability, but key maintenance points include:

1. Valve Adjustments: Every 15,000 km (9,320 miles). Shim-under-bucket design requires technical skill—check clearances:
2. Intake: 0.23–0.33mm (0.009–0.013 in)

3. Exhaust: 0.30–0.41mm (0.012–0.016 in)

4. Chain & Sprockets: The 525 O-ring chain wears quickly if neglected. Upgrade to a DID 525VX3 or swap to a 520 conversion kit for reduced weight.

5. Oil Changes: Use fully synthetic 5W-40 (3.3L/3.5 quarts with filter). The dry-sump system requires checking oil level via a sight glass on the side cover.

6. Cooling System: Flush coolant every 2 years (1.4L/1.5 quarts of ethylene glycol).

7. Brake Fluid: Brembo components demand fresh DOT 4 annually.

MOTOPARTS.store Recommendations:
- Upgrade to a DNA air filter for sharper throttle response.
- Install a Domino GP-style quick-throttle tube for reduced play.
- Replace stock mirrors with bar-end units for better visibility and cleaner looks.

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Conclusion: A Modern Classic Worth Preserving

The Husqvarna Nuda 900 isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a statement. It represents a brief moment when Husqvarna dared to blend supermoto agility with streetfighter aggression, wrapped in a package that still feels avant-garde. While its production run was short, the Nuda’s legacy lives on in bikes like the KTM 790 Duke and Ducati Hypermotard.

For riders today, the Nuda 900 offers a rare mix of lightweight thrills, premium components, and head-turning design. With proper care (and a few upgrades from MOTOPARTS.store), this Swedish-Italian-German mashup will continue to embarrass newer bikes on twisty roads—and do it with unmatched style.

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Specifications sheet

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