The 2025 Husqvarna Vitpilen 801 made its debut in October 2024 and is Husqvarna’s first twin-cylinder street motorcycle with 17-inch wheels. The bike is set to launch in the United States and India by February 2025. With a price tag of $10,499 in the U.S. and approximately ₹8.86 lakh (ex-showroom) in India, this neo-retro roadster blends modern Scandinavian aesthetics with the trusted engineering of KTM’s 790 Duke platform. Initial ride reviews from well-known sources such as Cycle World and Motorcycle.com have praised the bike’s responsive handling and powerful engine, suggesting it might be one of Husqvarna’s best models to date. But how does it compare with competitors like the Yamaha MT-09 and Honda CB750 Hornet?
Design and Features
The Vitpilen 801 stands out with its clean, minimalist design. It features a Bi-LED headlight, available in striking yellow and silver color options. The bike comes with a 5-inch TFT display that includes smartphone connectivity via the Ride Husqvarna app, allowing for navigation and call integration. Powered by a 799cc parallel-twin engine—borrowed from the KTM 790 Duke—the motorcycle delivers 105 horsepower at 8,000 rpm and 64 lb-ft of torque at 6,500 rpm. This is paired with a 6-speed gearbox and an optional quickshifter.
Additional features include adjustable WP APEX suspension with 140mm travel at the front and 150mm at the rear, cornering ABS, traction control, and three standard ride modes: Sport, Street, and Rain. An optional Dynamic mode is also available for riders who want more customization.
Key Highlights:
- Bi-LED headlight with a signature light ring
- 5-inch TFT screen with Bluetooth navigation
- Michelin Road 6 tires for improved road grip
- J.Juan braking system with 300mm front discs
- Optional quickshifter with Dynamic riding mode
Performance on the Road
Test rides conducted in Southern California, as reported by Cycle News and Motorcyclist, emphasize the Vitpilen 801’s energetic performance. With a curb weight of 420 pounds and a seat height of 32.3 inches, the bike offers excellent maneuverability. The Michelin Road 6 tires are well-suited for sport-touring but may not deliver the best grip for aggressive cornering. The engine’s torque is smooth and strong, particularly on winding roads. However, the braking system demands more forceful input during high-speed stops, as noted by MCNews.
The chassis is described as stable and confidence-inspiring, although slightly less responsive compared to the KTM 790 Duke. This makes the bike forgiving and accessible for riders with varying skill levels. Social media feedback also points out the stylish appearance of the bike, though seat comfort can diminish after extended periods of riding, especially beyond four hours.
Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 799cc, Liquid-cooled, Parallel-Twin |
| Power | 105 hp @ 8,000 rpm |
| Mileage | Estimated ~20 kmpl |
| Price | $10,499 USD (~₹8.86 lakh) |
| Weight | 420 lbs (curb) |
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Is This the Best Husqvarna Yet?
With a striking design, modern technology, and responsive performance, the 2025 Vitpilen 801 presents a compelling option in the street bike category. However, its $10,499 price places it against strong rivals like the Honda CB750 Hornet, priced at $9,399, and the Yamaha MT-09, which costs $10,799. The optional $420 Dynamic Package and lingering concerns over early KTM engine reliability, as pointed out by MCNews, may influence buyers.
Despite these factors, the Vitpilen 801 stands out for its unique design language and agile road behavior. According to Cycle World, it offers a balanced and stylish riding experience. Pre-bookings are currently open at husqvarna-motorcycles.com. Whether it becomes Husqvarna’s best bike remains to be seen, but for riders focused on aesthetics and all-around capability, it comes very close.
