2024 Husqvarna Vitpilen 401

The feeling

• FRAME: The new steel trellis frame is fundamental to the character and agility of the Vitpilen 401. Hydro-formed tubes are neatly robot welded together to create a frame that is not only strong, but low in weight. This assembly process delivers nimble handling and detailed feedback to the rider. Specific flex characteristics are engineered into the frame and together with the WP suspension, the Vitpilen 401 offers a comfortable riding experience.
• SUSPENSION: The WP suspension on the Vitpilen 401 is manufactured with the highest levels of quality and craftsmanship. At the front, adjustable in compression and rebound damping the WP APEX open cartridge forks are 43mm in diameter for dynamic handling and offer 150 mm of travel. At the rear, the shock offers the same travel while its progressive spring design soaks up bumps of all sizes with ease. The shock features adjustable preload and rebound damping settings and it is connected directly to the swingarm for a heightened level of rider feedback.
• ERGONOMICS: Revised ergonomics ensure an enhanced riding experience. A more upright, comfortable riding position is achieved with a higher handlebar and increased dimensions. At the same time, reduced standover height helps to have a secure stand when coming to a stop, thanks to the improved rounder seat shape. A slightly longer wheelbase improves stability without sacrificing agility while the 15 mm lower seat height places the rider closer to the center of gravity. Together with a revised triple clamp offset, all riders will benefit from the confidence-inspiring riding position that has been created.
• WHEELS AND TYRES: The six-spoke, 17" wheels are a design highlight of the Vitpilen 401. Offering style and stability, the wheels are also robust and reliable. Michelin Power 6 tires are fitted for their exceptional grip and predictability on the asphalt.
• SWINGARM: To accommodate the relocated off-center WP shock is the new, cast aluminum swingarm. Offering carefully calculated rigidity for improved stability and predictable handling, the curvature of the swingarm not only creates a modern appearance, but also provides additional space for the new silencer.

The lines

• EXTERIOR: Distinguished by its bold white tank covers, which offer the perfect contrast against its largely dark demeanor, the Vitpilen 401 certainly stands out from the crowd. The bodywork is slim and minimal to ensure a comfortable ride while the bronze engine covers add the finishing touches to this unique yet understated machine.
• LIGHTS: New front and rear LED lights offer improved illumination, particularly in low-light conditions. By using the latest LED technology for advanced lighting performance and enhanced visibility, riding through urban environments is safer for both the rider and other road users. The LED positioning ring on the front light acts as a daylight running light and gives the Vitpilen a distinctive premium look.
• HANDLEBAR: Higher and straighter roadster style handlebars are fitted together with black anodized, forged aluminum triple clamps that feature a revised offset to improve stability. In keeping with the minimalistic look of the authentic design, the handlebar-mounted dashboard only displays essential information - speed, fuel level, and the selected gear.
• TANK: The aesthetically formed, 3.4-gallon (13-litre) fuel tank is a central feature of the Vitpilen 401. Contributing to the distinctive look of the machine, the tank cover seamlessly blends into the side panels to ensure movements on the machine are completely unrestricted. The tank is complete with an aluminum filler cap featuring the iconic Husqvarna Motorcycles logo.
• SEAT: A new bolt-on trellis subframe lowers the height of the one-piece rider and pillion seat to 32.2 in (820 mm), to ensure the Vitpilen 401 accommodates a wider range of riders. Comfort is assured thanks to the revised curvature of the seat foam and the high-quality materials used to manufacture the cover.

The tech

• CONNECTIVITY: With the Connectivity Unit fitted as standard, the Vitpilen 401 provides riders with various functions to enhance their riding experience. With a smartphone connected via Bluetooth, incoming calls can be answered, music can be played, and by using the Ride Husqvarna Motorcycles app, Turn-by-Turn instructions of the navigation can be followed on the dashboard. RCM, Remote Control Mode, enables the rider to control the app with the handlebar buttons additionally it is the foundation for upcoming features.
• TFT DASHBOARD: A new and improved 5" TFT dashboard with a bonded glass screen shows vital information to riders. The travelling speed, fuel level, and the selected gear are all clearly displayed and visible at a glance. It is controlled by the new backlight switch cubes on the left end of the handlebar.
• ANIT-THEFT: The Vitpilen 401 has an immobilizer fitted as standard to provide anti-theft protection.
• SERVICE: A new engine layout leads to improved performance, reliability, and serviceability. All filters are now conveniently located on the same side of the engine to speed up and simplify routine maintenance. Thanks to the advanced engineering techniques used to assemble the engine, the oil, oil filter, and air filter now only need to be replaced every 10,000 kilometers after an initial oil change at 1,000 kilometers.

The thrill

• SINGLE CYLINDER: Powering the Vitpilen 401 is a new, single-cylinder engine that is engineered to be larger in displacement and lighter in weight when compared to the previous generation. Remarkably compact, the modern engine contributes to the refined handling characteristics and produces smooth and controllable power.
• EASY SHIFT: The Easy Shift ensures all gear changes are as smooth as possible. Once the EMS registers movement on the gear lever, it momentarily limits power, which ensures smooth gear changes. For a simplified riding experience, the clutch is not needed when changing gear on the Vitpilen 401.
• BRAKES: The Vitpilen 401 is fitted with hydraulic ByBre brake calipers together with a 320 mm front disc and a 240 mm rear disc. A state-of-the-art Bosch cornering sensitive ABS system ensures the highest levels of control in varying conditions and includes a Supermoto mode that disengages the ABS at the rear wheel. All components are manufactured to the highest of standards to ensure controllable and confidence-inspiring braking performance.
• RIDE MODES: The Vitpilen 401 is equipped with multiple electronic rider aids to improve its usability. The ride modes offer two power settings - Street and Rain. Street is engaged as standard while Rain can be activated in adverse weather conditions for a less aggressive throttle response. On top a speed limiter function allows riders to set a cruising speed that will not be exceeded even with the throttle fully opened.
• EXHAUST: Fully redesigned and carefully assembled, the new exhaust system meets emissions regulations thanks to its double catalyzer system. Made from high-strength steel, the exhaust now offers a considerable weight reduction of 4.4 lb (2 kg) when compared to the previous generation. The silencer is complete with a premium matt black finish to complement the distinctive style of the Vitpilen 401.
• MOTOR TRACTION CONTROL: The WP suspension on the Vitpilen 401 is manufactured with the highest levels of quality and craftsmanship. At the front, adjustable in compression and rebound damping the WP APEX open cartridge forks are 43 mm in diameter for dynamic handling and offer 150 mm of travel. At the rear, the shock offers the same travel while its progressive spring design soaks up bumps of all sizes with ease. The shock features adjustable preload and rebound damping settings and it is connected directly to the swingarm for a heightened level of rider feedback.