Bike: Husqvarna Vitpilen 401
Turns out Husqvarna’s small-capacity machine rides as well as it looks
SINCE 1903.” This message ashes brie y on the intricate instrument cluster as the ignition is switched on; a little ironic given this is one of the most futuristically styled bikes we’ve ever tested. The Ktm-owned rm might be better known for its power tools but, as that display proclaims, Husqvarna started building motorcycles near the Swedish town of Huskvarna and has been going for well over a century now. It can also be proud of its latest creation: the Vitpilen (“white arrow”) 401 is a road bike that represents a considerable departure from the more usual off-road and enduro machines that carry this name plate.
Just look at it. The minimalist design is artfully executed with plenty of beautiful details to draw you in: the tank with its aircraft wing-like protrusions; the slim seat; circular instrument cluster (and headlight); and those striking, spoked wheels that sit alongside large-diameter singledisc brakes. During the test period, the bike drew many favourable comments from passers-by; one person even thought it was an electric motorcycle. That’s obviously not the case, as it shares its 373 cm3 single-cylinder engine with KTM’S 390 Duke.
The bike maker is pitched as a high-end brand and, therefore, the hardware is all premium fare, including Bybre brakes (a subsidiary of Brembo), WP 43 mm upside-down forks up front and monoshock rear, Bosch two-channel ABS system and sticky Metzeler rubber front and back.
With all the ingredients for an exciting ride, we embarked on a 300 km round trip across the Winelands and Cape coastal regions. Hopping on the Vitpilen for the rst leg, it was immediately evident what a dainty machine it is. Weighing a mere 156 kg fully fuelled on our scales, the 401 feels even lighter as you stand it upright. Just make sure your feet can reach the ground if you are a short rider, as the narrow seat is set quite high at 835 mm. The handlebars are mounted low and forward, resulting in a jockey-like crouch that feels racy but makes it dif cult to get a clear view of the mirrors.
Thumb the starter button and the single-cylinder mill bursts into life with a restrained rumble through the tiny-diameter exhaust pipe. In an era of 1,0-litre-plus bikes, this appears not to promise a whole lot when it comes to excitement … until you let the clutch out. This little motor is a gem and, combined with short gearing, provides more drive than you’d expect from such a small engine. It pulls strongly from 3 000 r/min and builds to 11 000 r/min, where there’s some vibration through the bars and frame.
On our test strip, it even managed to lift its front wheel slightly in rst gear during a full-bore acceleration run, setting a 0100 km/h time of 5,80 seconds. What this means is that, unlike some rival small-capacity machines, the bike can easily keep to the national speed limit in top gear without feeling overly strained.
The better-than-expected straight-line performance is only half the story, though. On Clarence Drive between RooiEls and Gordon’s Bay, both the handling and braking impressed. It is slightly intimidating riding a little machine hard, as directional changes are instant and momentum is everything. Brake only as hard as needed, choose your line through the bend and re it out from the apex. If you get it right, a rhythm builds and the little arrow ies. Get it wrong and it leaves you a little disappointed. The 401 asks its rider plenty of questions but rewards a smooth rather than urgent riding style.
Even riding the bike enthusiastically resulted in a good consumption gure of 5,29 L/100 km, although the tiny 9,5-litre tank requires frequent ll-ups.
TEST SUMMARY
The Vitpilen 401 would probably sell on looks alone and could even feature as a striking ornament. This would be completely missing the point, though. It is made to be enjoyed on the road where, thanks to its light weight and minimalist design, you feel closer to the elements than on most other bikes. The Husqvarna is a charming reminder how much fun a small-capacity bike can be.
Big fun from a small-capacity package Nicol Louw Refreshing design is a welcome addition to this segment Wilhelm Lutjeharms