A First Look at the HUSQVARNA VITPILEN 801 – Where 105hp Meets Featherweight Performance!

The highly original and unique design is still alive and well. In fact, it has been made even more powerful.

I'm sure there are more and more riders who have recently started to hear the name "Husqvarna" more often. In fact, it is well known that it was not originally a motorcycle manufacturer, but a Swedish manufacturer that produces agricultural and forestry equipment such as chainsaws and lawn mowers. Rather, many people may find it surprising that they also sell motorcycles.

The latest model from Husqvarna, the Vitpilen 801, is the flagship of the "Pilen series" announced overseas in October 2024. It is divided into two models, the scrambler-style "Svartpilen (Black Arrow)" and the roadster "Vitpilen (Silver Arrow)", but until now, the lineup included the 250 class, 400 class, and large 700 class.

The Vitpilen 701, which can be said to be the previous model of the 801, has been discontinued, and after a four-year hiatus, the large Pilen has returned. However, unlike the 701, which was equipped with a 692.7cc single-cylinder engine, the 801, which is equipped with a 799cc parallel twin engine, can be said to be completely revamped. The engine is the "LC8c" developed by KTM, which has the same parent company, and is a distinctive model that uses a 75° crank phase angle and a two-axis balancer.

The headlights stand out among the distinctively designed "801"

The more you open it, the more it accelerates like flying. Seamless and powerful acceleration is a unique feature of the "801".

Before riding, I thought that the two-cylinder engine with a 75° crank phase angle would have some special vibrations or noticeable behavior. However, when I actually rode it, my expectations were betrayed in a good way, as it was smooth and easy to ride.

This is due to the two balancers canceling out the vibrations, resulting in a very silky characteristic throughout the entire range of engine speed. However, the maximum output of 105 PS is not just for show, and the powerful acceleration that "bang!" is also a major feature. Although it rotates smoothly, it accelerates more and more, so I was able to experience a strange feeling that I was "left behind" by the motorcycle for a moment.

Even when it is speeding up, there is no need to worry about the engine brake, and the slipper clutch makes the body's behavior extremely stable. Since it is equipped with a front suspension with a WP stroke of 140 mm, there is no need to worry even when the front brake is fully applied.

Cornering is also very easy, and it seems to move obediently in the direction you want to turn. The wide handlebars make it easy to control.

The forward-leaning posture on the wide handlebars is just like a street fighter, and the riding position, which seems to say "ride aggressively," was a high point, as it was purely enjoyable. On the other hand, the thick torque at low rpm makes it possible to ride leisurely, which seemed to be a friendly element.

However, the Vitpilen 801 is an unmistakable sports motorcycle that shows its true value the faster you go. When you open the throttle in sports mode, you can't experience the feeling of "flying" like an arrow with this unique ride. This is probably the unique ride quality created by the harmony of the lightweight body, sufficient power, and the two-axis balancer with a crank phase angle of 75°.

The appearance is one of a kind, but the ride is also unique and fun, making it unrivaled.

If I were to roughly sum up the features of this motorcycle, I would say that it is a "speedy and original design bike." Husqvarna's designs are already unique enough to be unrivaled, and many owners fall in love with the design at first sight. Among them, the completely revamped "801" follows the previous Husqvarna designs, but its most selling point is its striking design, which seems to have made the sharp parts even sharper.

Therefore, the first recommendation for this motorcycle is for "people who absolutely do not want to be the same as others." And of course, it would be for "riders who want to enjoy riding." If you want a unique motorcycle that values ​​appearance but does not want to give up on riding, you will not be able to find a more suitable motorcycle than the "801."

It is also perfect for riders who want to attract a little attention in the city or on tours. Even if you are not very familiar with motorcycles, you will surely be interested in the "801." If you underestimate it as just a motorcycle that prioritizes design, you will soon be hooked; it is a new generation bike.