Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 & Svartpilen 401 (2018-2019): A Modern Ode to Minimalist Motorcycling

Introduction

The Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 and Svartpilen 401 (2018-2019) are not just motorcycles—they’re statements. Born from Husqvarna’s “SIMPLE.PROGRESSIVE.” philosophy, these twins reimagined urban motorcycling by stripping away excess and focusing on raw, unadulterated riding pleasure. The Vitpilen (“White Arrow”) leans into café racer minimalism, while the Svartpilen (“Black Arrow”) adopts a scrambler-inspired ruggedness. Both share a DNA that prioritizes lightweight agility, Scandinavian design purity, and a “less is more” ethos. But how do they hold up as daily riders or weekend escape machines? Let’s dive in.

Design: Where Form Meets Function

The Vitpilen and Svartpilen are masterclasses in minimalist design. The trellis frame, exposed mechanics, and lack of bodywork clutter give both bikes an industrial yet artistic vibe. The Vitpilen’s clip-on handlebars and rear-set pegs evoke a sporty stance, while the Svartpilen’s flat handlebars and upright position scream urban adventurer.

• Tank & Ergonomics: The sculpted 9.5-liter fuel tank (2.5 US gal) is a visual centerpiece, adorned with a brushed aluminum filler cap. At 835 mm (32.8 in), the seat height is accessible for average riders, though taller riders might find the compact wheelbase (1,357 mm / 53.4 in) a touch cozy.
• Wheels & Tyres: The 17-inch spoked wheels wrapped in Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires (110/70 front, 150/60 rear) blend street precision with light off-road capability.
• Lighting: Full LED lighting adds a modern touch, with the Svartpilen’s headlight guard reinforcing its rugged persona.

These bikes aren’t just pretty faces—they’re designed to be ridden hard, with a steel trellis frame and premium WP suspension (142 mm front / 150 mm rear travel) that laughs at potholes.

Performance: Single-Cylinder Soul

At the heart of both models lies a 373.2 cc (22.8 cu-in) liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine. With 43 hp @ 9,000 rpm and 37 Nm (27.3 lb-ft) @ 7,000 rpm, it’s a lively powerplant that thrives in urban chaos.

• Throttle Response: The Bosch fuel injection delivers crisp throttle response, though the engine truly wakes up above 5,000 rpm. The 6-speed gearbox is slick, but the short gearing means highway cruising at 110 km/h (68 mph) feels buzzy.
• Clutch & ABS: The PASC anti-hopping clutch is a revelation in stop-and-go traffic. Coupled with disengageable Bosch ABS, it inspires confidence whether you’re lane-splitting or tackling gravel backroads.
• Weight & Handling: At 152 kg (335.6 lbs) dry, the Vit/Svartpilen flicks through corners like a mountain bike. The 25° rake and 95 mm (3.7 in) trail strike a balance between agility and stability.

This isn’t a bike for speed demons—it’s for riders who value tactile feedback over raw numbers. The engine’s characterful growl (enhanced by an optional Akrapovič slip-on) and willingness to rev make even grocery runs feel like mini-adventures.

City vs. Backroads: Two Personalities, One Chassis

Urban Jungle:
The Svartpilen shines here. Its upright riding position, wide handlebars, and plush suspension soak up curbs and construction zones. The 145 mm (5.7 in) ground clearance lets you hop sidewalks guilt-free, while the 9.5-liter tank limits range to ~250 km (155 miles)—perfect for city commutes.

Twisty Tarmac:
The Vitpilen’s café racer stance rewards aggressive riders. Lean it into a corner, and the sticky Pirellis and WP suspension keep things planted. At higher speeds, the lack of wind protection becomes apparent, but the trade-off is unfiltered connection to the road.

Light Off-Road:
Both bikes can handle gravel paths thanks to their spoked wheels and longer suspension travel. The Svartpilen’s blockier tires offer marginally better dirt grip, but don’t expect KTM 390 Adventure performance.

Competition: Standing Out in a Crowd

The 400cc naked segment is fiercely competitive. Here’s how the Husqvarnas stack up:

1. KTM 390 Duke:
   Sharing the same engine, the Duke trades Scandinavian minimalism for aggressive styling and a TFT dash. It’s slightly cheaper but lacks the Husky’s premium suspension and exclusivity.

2. BMW G310R:
   BMW’s 313 cc single is smoother at low RPMs but down on power (34 hp). The G310R’s budget-friendly price comes with cheaper components, like non-adjustable suspension.

3. Yamaha MT-03:
   The MT-03’s 321 cc parallel twin is butter-smooth but lacks the Husky’s torque-rich punch. Yamaha’s focus is on practicality over design flair.

Verdict: The Vit/Svartpilen carve a niche for riders prioritizing design and handling over tech gadgets. They’re less about specs and more about feel—a rarity in today’s data-driven market.

Maintenance: Keeping the Twins Thriving

Owning a Vitpilen/Svartpilen is relatively straightforward, but a few upgrades can elevate ownership:

• Chain & Sprockets: The X-ring chain lasts longer with regular cleaning, but swapping to a lightweight aluminum rear sprocket reduces unsprung mass for sharper handling.
• Clutch Upgrades: The Rekluse Radius X auto-clutch kit eliminates stalling in traffic and reduces lever fatigue—ideal for urban riders.
• Exhaust: The Akrapovič slip-on sheds 2.3 kg (5 lbs) and amplifies the single’s throaty exhaust note without needing a remap.
• Levers: CNC adjustable levers improve ergonomics and survive drops better than stock units.

Common Issues:
- The small fuel tank demands frequent fill-ups.
- Euro 4 compliance neuters the engine’s low-end; a fuel dongle or ECU tune wakes it up.
- Spoked wheels require meticulous cleaning to prevent corrosion.

Conclusion: Timelessness Over Trends

The Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 and Svartpilen 401 are motorcycles for purists. They reject the notion that riders need traction control, ride modes, or Bluetooth connectivity to enjoy two wheels. Instead, they offer a raw, mechanical experience wrapped in head-turning design. Whether you’re carving canyon roads on the Vitpilen or exploring urban jungles on the Svartpilen, these bikes remind us why motorcycling is about passion, not pixels.

At MOTOPARTS.store, we’re here to help you personalize your Husky—whether it’s a performance exhaust, crash protection, or that perfect café racer seat. Because these bikes aren’t just meant to be ridden; they’re meant to be lived in.

Specifications sheet