Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 [2018-2019] Review: A Scandi-Urban Rebellion With Knobby Tires

Introduction

The Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 isn't just a motorcycle - it's a manifesto. Born during Husqvarna's modern renaissance under KTM stewardship, this 2018-2019 model generation redefined urban motorcycling with its "less is more" philosophy. Combining Swedish design minimalism with Austrian engineering pragmatism, it created a new niche: the urban scrambler. Over two years of production, it remained largely unchanged, proving its formula was right from the start. Let's dissect why this bike continues to turn heads at coffee shops and gravel parking lots alike.

Design & Ergonomics: Nordic Noir Meets Dirt-Punk Chic

The Svartpilen ("Black Arrow" in Swedish) looks like a concept bike that escaped from an avant-garde design studio. The 2018 model's black/yellow scheme channels industrial machinery, while the 2019's monochromatic black version amps up the stealth factor.

At 835mm (32.9"), the seat height feels accessible yet commanding. The narrow profile helps shorter riders reach the ground, though the firm seat foam reminds you this isn't a touring couch. The steel trellis frame isn't just structural art - its 1357mm (53.4") wheelbase strikes a perfect balance between flickable urban agility and highway stability.

Notable evolution occurred beneath the wheels:
- 2018: Wire-spoked wheels with dual-purpose tires (110/70-17 front, 150/60-17 rear)
- 2019: Cast aluminum wheels shod with more road-biased rubber
Both versions maintain 170mm (6.7") of ground clearance - enough for curb hopping and light trails.

Performance: Single-Cylinder Symphony

The 373cc liquid-cooled single (borrowed from KTM's parts bin but thoroughly Husqvarna-ized) delivers 44 HP (32 kW) at 9,000 RPM and 37 Nm (27.3 lb-ft) torque at 7,000 RPM. These numbers don't scream on paper, but the power delivery is where the magic happens:

• 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph): ~5 seconds - brisk enough to gap most city traffic
• Top Speed: 145 km/h (90 mph) indicated - the sweet spot for highway legality
• Fuel Consumption: 3.5-4 L/100km (67-58 mpg) from its 9.5L (2.5 gal) tank

The Keihin fuel injection serves up linear power, avoiding the abruptness of some small-capacity twins. Keep it spinning above 4,000 RPM, and the engine transforms from docile commuter to snarling hooligan. The slipper clutch (2019 model) makes aggressive downshifts drama-free, while the 6-speed gearbox clicks through ratios with positive engagement.

Handling & Suspension: Urban Assault Geometry

WP Suspension components elevate this above typical entry-level bikes:
- Front: 43mm USD forks with 142mm (5.6") travel
- Rear: WP monoshock with 150mm (5.9") travel and progressive damping

The setup defaults to firm - you feel cobblestones and manhole covers, but it never jars. Crank the preload adjuster for two-up riding. At 150kg (331 lbs) dry, the Svartpilen changes direction like a mountain bike. The switchable ABS (Brembo calipers biting 230mm discs) inspires confidence when braking late for traffic lights.

Tire pressure matters here:
- Front/Rear: 2.0 bar (29 psi) - slightly lower than sportbikes for better bump absorption

Competition: Standing Out in the 400cc Crowd

The Svartpilen 401's true rivals aren't obvious - it cross-shops with bikes from multiple categories:

| Competitor | Advantages Over Svartpilen | Where Svartpilen Bites Back |
|---------------------|-------------------------------------|---------------------------------------|
| KTM 390 Duke | More peak power (44 vs 43 HP) | Superior suspension, unique styling |
| BMW G310R | Brand prestige, smoother engine | Better off-road capability, personality |
| Honda CB300R | Lower maintenance costs, reliability| Stronger mid-range, taller seat height|
| Royal Enfield Scram 411 | Authentic scrambler vibe | 25kg lighter, 50% more power |

The Husky's USP? It's for riders who'd rather park next to Ducati Scramblers than anonymous commuters. The 2019 model's cast wheels traded some off-road pretense for urban precision, widening its appeal beyond the "adventure-lite" crowd.

Maintenance: Keeping the Black Arrow Flying Straight

As MOTOPARTS.store's resident wrench-spinner, here's what every Svartpilen 401 owner should know:

1. Oil Changes:
2. 1.7L of 15W-50 (API SH) with filter
3. Change every 7,500 km (4,660 mi) or annually

4. Pro Tip: Use a magnetic drain plug to catch metal shavings from the high-strung single

5. Valve Adjustments:

6. Intake: 0.10-0.15mm (0.004-0.006")
7. Exhaust: 0.15-0.20mm (0.006-0.008")

8. Check every 15,000 km (9,320 mi) - earlier if you're often near redline

9. Chain Care:

10. 5/8" x 1/4" X-ring chain (15/45 sprockets)
11. Clean with kerosene every 500 km (310 mi), lube with 80W-90 gear oil

12. Replace when stretch exceeds 2% (about 25,000 km/15,500 mi)

13. Cooling System:

14. 1.2L of ethylene glycol coolant
15. Flush every 2 years or 30,000 km (18,640 mi)

16. Check WP pump seals for leaks during oil changes

17. Brake Service:

18. DOT 4/5.1 fluid change every 2 years
19. Pad replacement at 3mm thickness

Common Upgrade Paths from MOTOPARTS.store:
- LED turn signals (clean up the tail)
- Adjustable clutch/brake levers
- Skid plate for urban curb assaults
- Gel seat inserts for all-day comfort

Conclusion: The Hipster's Dark Horse

The 2018-2019 Svartpilen 401 isn't about being the fastest or most practical - it's about riding something that feels special. That visceral single-cylinder thump, the way the trellis frame telegraphs road texture to your palms, the envious glances from riders of "normal" bikes... this is motorcycling reduced to its essential joys.

Does it have quirks? Absolutely. The mirrors vibrate at highway speeds, the seat tests your butt's endurance, and finding neutral remains a mini-game. But these are character points, not flaws. In a world of cookie-cutter motorcycles, the Svartpilen 401 remains a deliciously dark alternative - a bike that's equally at home threading through traffic or posing outside a microbrewery.

At MOTOPARTS.store, we celebrate machines that stir passion. The Svartpilen 401 does exactly that - while leaving room in your budget for personalized upgrades. Because true style isn't bought off the showroom floor; it's built mile by rebellious mile.

Specifications sheet