Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 2024 in the Big Test

In a world full of excess and complexity, the Vitpilen 401 stands as a beacon of simplicity and elegance. It is the perfect example of how less can indeed be more. Form follows function, and yet this motorcycle manages to convey a sense of luxury and sophistication with its minimalist approach. It's like taking a ride through a Scandinavian design museum, where every element is perfectly coordinated to create a harmonious overall picture.

The HJC RPHA 71 Carbon kept a cool head during this test. The helmet impressed the 1000PS crew with its pleasantly neutral aerodynamics, which ensure fatigue-free riding even on longer routes. Additionally, the effective ventilation performance and reliable heat dissipation on hot days are noteworthy. The carbon model not only looks super classy but is also noticeably lighter than the base version of the RPHA 71. The visor mechanism with an additional sun visor works flawlessly. The fit is comfortable, and the shape covers a wide range in the 1000PS editorial office - all our editors felt comfortable! We give our recommendation.

https://hjchelmets.eu/products/rpha-71-carbon-solid

For this test, we were equipped by our apparel partner IXS with products from their latest sports collection. Our 1000PS editorial team has trusted the Swiss brand for more than 10 years now. Besides the quality of workmanship, we appreciate that IXS always uses high-quality materials and excellent fit. Even editors who do not conform to standard body types find a well-fitting outfit thanks to the availability of long and short sizes. With advanced features like airbag systems and electronically controlled membranes, they strive to offer the highest level of safety and comfort. We like that a lot!

https://ixs.com/moto-sports-2024

The 1000PS Crew at the Naked Bike Test 2024

• Video, Photo: https://www.instagram.com/motocinematica/
• Video, Photo: https://www.instagram.com/jakob.schabsi/
• Video, Photo: https://www.instagram.com/patbpixx/
• Editor: https://www.instagram.com/christophorvath/
• Test Rider: https://www.instagram.com/mbbikeperformance/
• Test Rider and YouTube English Host: https://www.instagram.com/adamchadchild/
• Test Rider and YouTube Poland Host: https://www.instagram.com/marek.piechula/
• Test Rider: https://www.instagram.com/named.aj/
• Test Rider: https://www.instagram.com/turboschaaf/
• YouTube Italy Host: https://www.instagram.com/weeeslyy/
• Test Rider: https://www.instagram.com/kurtrubik/
• Test Rider: https://www.instagram.com/ewald_baumgartner_fahrtechnik/
• Test Rider and German Video Host: http://zonko.at/
• Producer, Host, and Test Rider: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nils-mueller-doget-1000ps/
• Editor: Martin "Vauli" Vielhaber: More reports from Vauli

Our Partner at the Naked Bike Test 2024

• Motorcycle Care: https://motorex.com/de-at/moto-line--5616
• Less luggage, still no stink! 1000PS trusts Bamigo

Transmission and Clutch of the Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 The transmission of the Vitpilen 401 is a double-edged sword. On one hand, the quickshifter impresses, working exceptionally well, especially in this price range. Gear changes are seamless and without complaint, even when downshifting multiple gears before a corner. On the other hand, the transmission is described as somewhat harsh, which could affect riding comfort on longer trips. Despite these minor weaknesses, the clutch allows for precise and controlled operation, which overall positively influences the riding experience.

Electronic Assistance Systems of the Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 The electronic equipment of the Vitpilen 401 is impressive and anything but standard in this motorcycle class. The bike is equipped with lean-angle-sensitive traction control and cornering ABS, both of which provide additional safety and confidence while riding. The quickshifter with blipper function allows for seamless gear changes, which is particularly advantageous for sporty riding. The quality and feel of the controls are good, and operation is intuitive, which positively influences the overall impression of the electronics.

Ergonomics and Operation of the Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 The ergonomics of the Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 offer a mixed experience. The seating position is sporty and provides good front-wheel orientation, which, combined with the agile handling, is a dream for twisties enthusiasts. The seat itself is described as comfortable and not too wide, increasing freedom of movement. However, the seat is somewhat hard, which could affect comfort on longer rides. The arrangement of the controls is logical and user-friendly, with the well-positioned mirrors particularly highlighted, offering a clear view to the rear.

Chassis and Handling of the Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 The chassis of the Vitpilen 401 is firmly tuned, leading to excellent stability and precision in corners. This bike can be leaned into corners with minimal effort and remains surprisingly stable even at higher speeds. The agility of the Vitpilen is impressive, further enhanced by the Michelin Power 6 tires. The front fork is adjustable in compression and rebound, and the rear mono-shock is also adjustable. This allows for the suspension to be tailored to various riding styles and road conditions.

Brakes of the Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 The brakes of the Vitpilen 401 are reliable and offer good delay. They are satisfactory and largely meet the expectations of the test riders, with the cornering ABS providing an additional safety aspect. The modulation of the brakes is good, making it easier to control the bike in various riding situations. However, the brakes overall remind you that you are on an entry-level bike. The brakes cannot match the high level of the rest of the equipment.

Miscellaneous on the Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 Some additional notes concern the dashboard of the Vitpilen 401. While the display is well-designed, there are issues with readability in strong sunlight. Particularly, the yellow and bright shift light obscures essential information. Another point is the noticeable vibration, which can become uncomfortable on longer rides. Despite these minor flaws, the Vitpilen 401 impresses with its good equipment and stylish design.

Conclusion on the Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 The Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 is a cool bike that can appeal to both beginners and experienced riders. Its agility and extensive equipment make it an interesting choice in its class. The single-cylinder engine offers a lot of fun in the upper rev range, even if it is somewhat weak in the lower range. The firm suspension setup ensures precise handling but could be more comfortable on longer rides. Overall, the Vitpilen 401 is a well-equipped and stylish bike, particularly suited for riders seeking an agile and dynamic riding experience.

Riding a motorcycle in the Bucklige Welt offers an exceptionally charming experience, accentuated by the picturesque landscape of this region in Lower Austria. Characterized by gentle hills, expansive meadows, and idyllic small villages, the Bucklige Welt provides the perfect terrain for motorcycle enthusiasts who seek to enjoy both the beauty of nature and the thrill of twisties. The varied routes lead through forested areas and past historical landmarks, making each tour a journey through the culture and history of the country. Riding is particularly appealing in the spring and autumn months, when the landscape is bathed in a spectacular play of colors that invigorates the senses and leaves unforgettable impressions. This makes the Bucklige Welt a hidden gem for bikers who are looking for authenticity and originality.

During the test, we rode a total of 10 motorcycles in a direct comparison. The motorcycles were in different displacement classes. Nevertheless, we evaluated the motorcycles using the same evaluation scheme. The categories in the test protocol include aspects such as engine comfort and modulation, engine revviness, torque, engine performance, gearbox, quickshifter, clutch, traction control regulation, traction control adjustment options, switch quality, and control logic. Additionally, aspects such as stability, handling, precision, suspension quality and adjustment range, brakes, modulation, and effectiveness were evaluated. Each test rider provided their individual rating, which was then averaged for each category and ultimately led to an overall rating. The best motorcycle in each category was rated "1," and the worst motorcycle in the category was rated "10." For our readers, these tables are interesting for two reasons. On the one hand, they can see in which areas individual motorcycles are above average and in which areas they are below average - always considering that the price and displacement classes are very different. On the other hand, you can click through all the reports and results here and directly compare your favorites - regardless of price and displacement class.

Schaaf has a mixed but mostly positive opinion of the Husqvarna Vitpilen 401. He particularly praises the outstanding agility of the bike, which allows it to lean into the twisties with minimal effort. Despite this agility, the machine remains stable and secure due to its firmer setup. The brakes meet his expectations, and the seating position offers a good balance between freedom of movement and front-wheel orientation, which, combined with the excellent handling, is a dream for the rider.

Valentin is particularly impressed by the electronic features, especially the quickshifter. In this price range, it is exceptional how well and smoothly it works, even when quickly downshifting multiple gears before a corner. The engine, on the other hand, shows some weaknesses. For a single, Valentin wishes for more grunt from the lower RPM range. While the engine performs well and is fun between 7000 and 9000 RPM, it is rather sluggish below and above that range. Additionally, he is bothered by the relatively strong vibrations he feels in his feet, which could become uncomfortable over time.

Nasty Nils describes the Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 as a heartwarming bike that maneuvers through twisties with remarkable ease and precision. The Michelin Power 6 tires further contribute to the machine's excellent handling. However, he finds the seat a bit hard and the suspension rather uncomfortable and sportily tuned. Despite these aspects, the bike overall appears very cool and appealing, which is also supported by the modern and stylish electronics.

Nils is particularly impressed by the extensive features, which are rather uncommon in this class. These include an adjustable suspension, USB ports, a display, and various riding aids. These features make the Vitpilen 401 an attractive offering. The single-cylinder engine, however, requires higher revs to really shine as it lacks punch in the lower rev range. On the positive side, Nils highlights the bike's simple and accessible riding style, making it suitable even for less experienced riders.

Stunt rider Kurt Rubik is very impressed with the Husqvarna Vitpilen 401, describing it as a fundamentally well-executed bike. Both visually and in terms of riding performance, it convinces him equally. He particularly highlights that the current version of the Vitpilen is equipped with a naked bike handlebar, which he considers an improvement over the first version.

Rubik praises the handling of the bike, which, thanks to its tires, allows it to lean into the corners very well. In his opinion, the engine responds particularly well in the upper rev range, while more gear changes are required in the mid and lower ranges to achieve the desired pull. Overall, Rubik describes the riding experience as very pleasant and the motorcycle as a "super machine" that convinces him in many ways.

Martin Bauer notes that the riding impression of the Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 differs from that of the KTM Duke 390. He points out that on the Vitpilen, you sit slightly further from the handlebars, which are also positioned a bit lower. This results in a sportier riding position, giving him the feeling of having more contact with the bike. This position gives the motorcycle a sense of greater stability and maturity, whereas the Duke 390 feels more like a toy, where you don't always know exactly what's happening underneath you.

The engine of the Vitpilen 401 is very similar to that of the Duke 390 and shares the same weaknesses. In the lower RPM range, it lacks power, and the usable RPM range is quite narrow, from 6000 to 8000 revolutions. Beyond that, the power delivery becomes sluggish again, and the setup is not yet optimal. Bauer notes that the power delivery fluctuates even when you hold the throttle steady.

According to Bauer, the brakes are fine and offer satisfactory delay. The suspension of the Vitpilen is rather firmly tuned, which is noticeable on hard bumps. He could imagine that a softer setup would be better, but the firm tuning ensures that the motorcycle remains stable at higher cornering speeds. The display is identical to that of the Duke and is hard to read in sunlight. Overall, Martin Bauer highlights that the Vitpilen 401 feels more stable and mature than the Duke 390, but it also shares some of its weaknesses, particularly in the engine area and setup.

Adam Child sees the KTM as a bike for the under-21 market, who are looking for fast and agile riding. The Vitpilen 401, on the other hand, appeals to a more mature market, while the Triumph is more suited for riders who come from classic bikes like Enfield or are looking for a second bike for relaxed rides alongside their touring bike.