Until now, we have reported about Husqvarna’s product strategy for the entry-level and middleweight models. In more updates, we can now reveal that the Swedish brand will introduce high-end performance motorcycles that will draw power from a KTM LC8 V-Twin derived motor. The displacement, as per the product names confirmed (1301 series), will be similar to the 1290 Super Duke R.
Also Read: Husqvarna to introduce lower displacement (125 and 250 cc) models
The motor on the KTM is scheduled to receive am update, and the new engine will debut on the 2020 1290 Super Duke R at the 2019 EICMA motorcycle show. The 1,301 cc V-twin, liquid-cooled on the flagship Duke series motorcycle is expected to pump out 180 PS to 190 PS of peak power.
The Husqvarna 1301 series, similar to the KTM range of products, will comprise an adventure tourer (explorer) and a naked roadster. KTM also has a GT variant of the 1290 Super Duke, and we may see a similar product in the Husqvarna range too. However, such a product was not listed in the leaked document. The power output figures could be very close to the KTM 1290 Super Duke R and the 1290 Super Adventure series. The Husqvarna-branded models may also carry the same underpinnings as the Austrian naked roadster and adventure tourer.
The styling, however, will be completely different. The adventure tourer, similar to the lower displacement models, might draw design cues from the 701 Nomad Adventure. Husqvarna does not have a naked roadster in its portfolio, although we could see the Vitpilen and the Svartpilen-inspired looks on the motorcycle.
The hardware list will be premium, and we could see features like full LED lighting (headlight, taillight and blinkers) and colour TFT-display as standard. Bluetooth connectivity could be part of the optional accessories. Shock absorption department will most likely pack WP-sourced, fully-adjustable suspension setup on both models. The adventure tourer will carry more suspension travel than the naked roadster.
Braking department will comprise twin rotors at the front and a single disc at the back. The discs would most definitely work with Brembo sourced callipers. A comprehensive safety package should be accompanied by an IMU for features such as lean-sensitive traction control and cornering ABS. Other key safety features will include ABS, selectable riding modes with the option of customization as per rider’s preference, wheelie control, rear-wheel lift-up mitigation and more.
Also Read: KTM 490 parallel-twin based Husqvarna 501 series under development
The Husqvarna branded products will most likely carry a premium over the KTM models in a similar segment. We hope to hear some official details about the company’s product strategy at the 2019 EICMA motorcycle show (5-10 November). The motoring event in Milan, Italy should also serve as the stage for the unveiling of the much-awaited Vitpilen 401 and the Svartpilen 401 motorcycles.
