Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 vs. Triumph Speed 400

In the grand 1000PS Naked Bike Test, we took on two fascinating motorcycles: the Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 and the Triumph Speed 400. At first glance, these machines could hardly be more different – yet they share a common DNA that guarantees fun in the saddle. Both models impress with their distinctive design and cool riding characteristics that go far beyond what one would expect in their displacement class.

The Vitpilen 401 presents itself as a stylish bike for the modern hipster, while the Triumph Speed 400, with its classic charm, appeals to the gentleman rider. But beyond these superficial characterizations, both machines offer an intense riding experience that is hard to capture in a rating table. Ultimately, it’s the feeling in the saddle that counts – and both motorcycles brought a smile to our faces, both when mounting and dismounting.

Join us as the 1000PS expert crew pinpoints the riding impressions of the Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 and the Triumph Speed 400, highlighting the special features of these extraordinary motorcycles.

Amazingly, all riders in the saddle of the Vitpilen 401 had higher expectations for the engine performance than when riding the Triumph. The Husqvarna brand is possibly positioned a bit more sportily. Therefore, it was held against it that it only delivers engine performance at higher RPMs. On the road, the Speed 400 was by no means faster, but somehow the weaker engine met the expectations for the motorcycle better than the Vitpilen.

The Vitpilen 401 is equipped with a 399cc single-cylinder engine that delivers 47 hp at 10,000 rpm and 39.3 Nm at 7750 rpm. Schaaf praised the bike's exceptional agility, emphasizing that it can be maneuvered into corners with minimal effort. He found the front-wheel-oriented seating position advantageous for front-end feedback. Kurt Rubik described the Vitpilen 401 as visually and technically impressive, highlighting the naked bike handlebars and the comfortable seat positively.

Martin Bauer compared the Vitpilen 401 to the KTM 390 Duke and found it more mature and grown-up. However, he noted that the engine is somewhat weak in the lower rpm range. Adam Child found the Vitpilen 401 appealing, praising its easy handling and sporty riding behavior. For him, the Vitpilen felt more like a full-fledged motorcycle than the playful KTM 390 Duke.

The Speed 400 features a 398cc single-cylinder engine with 40 hp at 8000 rpm and 37.5 Nm at 6500 rpm. Zonko was impressed by the looks and the comfortable seating position. He particularly highlighted the elasticity of the single-cylinder engine. He found the soft suspension good for enjoying the ride but noted that it tends to sway slightly during sporty riding.

Kurt Rubik was surprised by the sporty riding characteristics despite the classic appearance. As a downside, he mentioned the relatively wide tank, which can press against the thighs on longer rides. Schaaf described the Speed 400 as comfortably tuned and ideal for relaxed riding in urban areas. However, he warned that the bike might feel a bit nervous at higher speeds. He found the clutch and gearbox very smooth. Martin Bauer characterized the Speed 400 as typical of a scrambler with a high, comfortable seating position and soft suspension. He praised the engine's good running culture but noted that the power diminishes at higher rpm.

In our rating scheme, where lower values indicate a better ranking, the Vitpilen 401 showcased strengths in handling (4.91), traction control (4.88), and user interface (4.13). Overall, the Vitpilen 401 achieved a better overall result with an average ranking of 6.22 compared to the Speed 400's 7.17. Ultimately, the choice between the two bikes depends on the rider's individual preferences. However, the Triumph Speed 400 was evidently more of a crowd favorite. It outperformed the Vitpilen 401 in the criterion "I find this bike awesome!". Thus, pragmatically speaking, the Vitpilen 401 is the better bike, but the Speed 400 more directly captured the hearts of the 1000PS experts.

When comparing prices on the 1000PS market, it quickly becomes apparent that comparing list prices makes little sense. The Triumph Speed 400 attracts significantly more interest than the Husqvarna Vitpilen 401. Consequently, potential buyers find more attractive prices for the Vitpilen 401 on the market than for the Speed 400. The Speed 400 is essentially sold by dealers without any discount and is extremely popular with customers. Triumph seems to have hit the mark here: an affordable, attractive, and desirable bike. In contrast, Husqvarna has not quite managed this feat with the Vitpilen 401. Although the Vitpilen 401 offers a great riding experience, it has so far failed to generate the same enthusiasm among customers. This may be due to the continued association of the name Vitpilen with the café racer style. However, the new models are now also available with a more comfortable naked bike handlebar.

The Helmets in the 1000PS Naked Bike Test

Keeping a cool head during this test was ensured by the HJC RPHA 71 Carbon. The helmet impressed the 1000PS crew with its pleasantly neutral aerodynamics, which also provide fatigue-free riding 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 it 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 fit range covers a broad spectrum in the 1000PS editorial team - all our editors felt comfortable! We give our recommendation.

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

Our Motorcycle Clothing in the Naked Bike Test 2024

For this test, we were equipped by our clothing partner IXS with products from the current Sport 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 works with high-quality materials and excellent fit. Even editors who do not fit the norm due to their body shape always 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 aim to provide the highest level of safety and comfort. We like it a lot!

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

The 1000PS Crew in 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 Moderator: https://www.instagram.com/adamchadchild/
• Test Rider and YouTube Poland Moderator: https://www.instagram.com/marek.piechula/
• Test Rider: https://www.instagram.com/named.aj/
• Test Rider: https://www.instagram.com/turboschaaf/
• YouTube Italy Moderator: 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 Moderator: http://zonko.at/
• Producer, Moderator, and Test Rider: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nils-mueller-doget-1000ps/
• Editor: Martin "Vauli" Vielhaber: More reports from Vauli

Our Partner in the Naked Bike Test 2024

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

Our Test Tracks - Region Bucklige Welt

Motorcycling in the Bucklige Welt offers an exceptionally charming experience, highlighted 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 both the beauty of nature and the thrill of twisty roads. 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 delightful in the spring and autumn months when the landscape is bathed in a spectacular array of colors that invigorate the senses and leave unforgettable impressions. This makes the Bucklige Welt a hidden gem for bikers seeking authenticity and originality.

1000PS Naked Bike Test 2024 - The Points Rating

In the test, we rode a total of 10 motorcycles in direct comparison, with the motorcycles being in different displacement classes. Nevertheless, we rated the motorcycles using the same evaluation scheme. The categories in the test protocol include aspects such as engine comfort and modulation, engine revviness, pull-through, engine power, 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 gave their individual rating, which was then averaged for each category and finally compiled into 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, all reports and results can be clicked through here, allowing readers to directly compare their favorites - regardless of price and displacement class.