Now, of course, we have choices that include KTM’s 390 Duke and Kawasaki’s Z400/Ninja 400 models. These bikes make decent power and easily handle highway cruising speeds. They are also relatively inexpensive.
Husqvarna is a sister brand to KTM, and it has the uniquely styled Svartpilen 401 powered by the same 373cc single found in the 390 Duke. We found the 390 Duke loads of fun when we tested it, so we had high expectations for the Svartpilen 401.
With close to 45 horsepower, the little 401 weighs less than 350 pounds wet (with 2.5 gallons of fuel). It features a six-speed transmission, an adjustable fork (both compression and rebound) and a big front disc brake (320mm) squeezed by a radially-mounted caliper. ABS is standard.
Some of the spec is pretty basic. The instrument face is not a colorful TFT, but an older-style LCD with poor contrast, and there are no selectable rider modes.
17″ wheels are shod with quality Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires. In addition to the light weight, this is just a small motorcycle. The wheelbase is just 53.4″ and the seat height 32.9″. The bike is extremely narrow between the rider’s legs. With the wide bars and dirt bike-style ergonomics, riding the 401 on the street is a blast. The bike is almost comically nimble, requiring experienced riders to recalibrate their effort to turn-in the motorcycle.
Once you get used to riding the Svartpilen 401, you appreciate its turning ability. Stability is never an issue, and the stock Pirelli tires actually grip quite well on the tarmac.
The brakes do a good job of hauling the bike to a stop, and the suspension soaks up the bumps for a smooth ride. The spring rates on the fork and the shock are pretty light, so heavier or faster riders might need stiffer springs.
The ergonomics, as expected, are comfortable and upright for riders up to 6 feet tall, or so. The bike can be a little cramped for taller riders. Also, the thin seat can start to feel too hard even on moderately long trips.
The transmission shifts well for the most part, but neutral can require a deft touch to find. The gearbox also has a quick shifter function allowing clutchless shifts. The LED lights provide good night time visibility.
The engine is tuned for a broad spread of torque , and the power comes on smoothly with the well-tuned fuel injection system. The bike is plenty powerful to have a fun time in the twisties, or on the open highway where top speed is roughly 100 mph.
There’s no doubt in our minds that the Svartpilen 401 is both fun and practical. It has enough performance for a lightweight single to entertain both beginners and experienced riders looking to enjoy the nimble nature only available in a machine like this.
The Scandinavian styling of the bike is clearly controversial, so that is something you will have to evaluate for yourselves. Husqvarna has lowered the price of the Svartpilen 401 over the years, with the 2022 model coming in at $5,399. Take a look at Husqvarna’s website for additional details and specifications.
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