Meet the new Husqvarna Neo-Retro Bike: Svartpilen 801

The modern custom scene has profoundly influenced motorcycle manufacturers in recent times. Cafe racers first gained widespread popularity, spurring many production bikes to adopt retro styling cues. Bobbers soon followed a similar trend. Now, scramblers have emerged as the dominant force shaping new model design. Scrambler-style machines pay homage to vintage off-roaders through their styling. Most brands now offer scrambler options, with some building full ranges around this look.

The consistent commercial success of scramblers has sustained strong demand, giving riders many choices. While all fall under the broad scrambler category, their attributes, performance, features and quality can differ significantly. Manufacturers have created diverse interpretations to appeal to varying tastes, from minimalist trail bashers to more robust long-distance tourers maintaining vintage visual flair. This diversity ensures there is a scrambler for every rider's needs and tastes.

The highly anticipated Husqvarna Svartpilen 801 has finally arrived. Designed by KISKA, the Svartpilen line has generated significant buzz since its inception. While 125, 200, 401 and 701 variations of the neo-retro scrambler and cafe racer designs have already been released, Husqvarna is expanding the range in a big way with the all-new 2024 Svartpilen 801. Completely reimagined for the new model year, the 801 packs more power and performance into the minimalist scrambler-style packaging that the Svartpilen is known for.

The Svartpilen 801 features a chromium-molybdenum frame that uses the engine as a stressed member, delivering a modern naked design with scrambler influences. It shares its 799cc LC8c twin-cylinder engine and chassis with the KTM 790 Duke, generating 105hp and 64.16ft-lbs. Distinctive touches include the signature tank found on all Svartpilens and Vitpilens, plus a low-slung tracker-style tail and circular LED headlight under a nacelle. A high-mount standard exhaust can be upgraded to a carbon-tip Akrapovič unit. Standard equipment includes a PASC slipper clutch, bidirectional quickshifter, 5" TFT display, ride-by-wire throttle and four ride modes. Cutting-edge electronics offer four standard riding modes plus an optional Dynamic Pack unlocking 10-level traction control, five anti-wheelie settings, motor slip regulation and cruise control for an enhanced package focused on performance and safety.

Riding on cast five-spoke alloy wheels in a 17-inch diameter, the 801 also features fully adjustable WP APEX suspension front and rear. J.Juan braking components provide stopping power, linked to a Bosch cornering ABS system sensitive to lean angle. Tipping the scales at just under 400 pounds wet, it is marginally heavier than the 790 Duke donor bike. Though based on the 790's running gear and frame, the Svartpilen 801 stands as Husqvarna's largest model to date at 799cc, just 6cc above the outgoing 701 range. Further customization is possible with Husqvarna's range of factory accessories and add-ons, as with previous Svartpilen releases.

Available from dealers this April, the 2024 Husqvarna Svartpilen 801 carries an MSRP starting at $10,899.