Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition 2023 vs. BMW F 850 GS 2022

The Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition 2023 and the BMW F 850 GS 2022 are both enduro motorcycles that offer impressive features and capabilities. However, there are notable differences between the two models.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition 2023 is equipped with an in-line, 2-cylinder engine that has a displacement of 889cc. It delivers a powerful 105 HP and 100 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the BMW F 850 GS 2022 also has an in-line, 2-cylinder engine but with a smaller displacement of 853cc. It produces 95 HP and 92 Nm of torque. While both engines are chain-driven and have electric starters, the Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition 2023 offers slightly higher power and torque figures.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension with monoshock at the rear. However, the Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition 2023 has a larger front fork diameter of 48mm compared to the 43mm diameter of the BMW F 850 GS 2022. The travel distance for both front and rear suspension is also higher in the Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition 2023, offering better off-road capabilities.

Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition 2023

When it comes to the chassis, the Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition 2023 boasts a chromium-molybdenum frame, while the BMW F 850 GS 2022 has a steel frame. Both frames are tubular in design, but the Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition 2023 has a slightly steeper rake angle of 64.2 degrees compared to the 62 degrees of the BMW F 850 GS 2022. The trail measurement is also smaller in the Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition 2023, indicating a more agile geometry.

In terms of braking, both motorcycles feature double disk brakes at the front. However, the Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition 2023 offers more advanced rider assistance systems, including ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, quickshifter, and traction control. The BMW F 850 GS 2022, on the other hand, only has ABS as an advanced rider assistance system.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a 21-inch front tire diameter and a 150mm rear tire width. However, the Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition 2023 has an 18-inch rear tire diameter, while the BMW F 850 GS 2022 has a 17-inch rear tire diameter. Additionally, the Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition 2023 has a larger fuel tank capacity of 19 liters compared to the 15 liters of the BMW F 850 GS 2022.

BMW F 850 GS 2022

In terms of strengths, the Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition 2023 offers a high-quality and fully adjustable chassis, great comfort in the saddle, improved off-road capabilities, top-of-the-range equipment as standard, a powerful yet smooth-running engine, agile geometry, good fuel consumption figures, and a high-quality appearance and finish. On the other hand, the BMW F 850 GS 2022 excels in wind and weather protection, a well thought-out operating concept, practical equipment, very accessible operation and driveability in everyday use, good seat comfort, and a great connectivity solution.

However, there are also weaknesses to consider. The Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition 2023 has a seat height of 874mm, which may be critical for smaller riders. It also lacks a USB slot in the cockpit and the standard soft luggage is not of top quality. The BMW F 850 GS 2022, on the other hand, experiences vibrations in the upper rev range, has a boring engine, a stiff quickshifter gearstick, front damping that is too lax, a non-adjustable fork, a ponderous feel, and a front brake that could benefit from more bite.

In conclusion, while both the Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition 2023 and the BMW F 850 GS 2022 are capable enduro motorcycles, they have distinct differences in terms of engine power, suspension, chassis, rider assistance systems, dimensions, and strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, the choice between the two models will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.