10 October 2024

New Vitpilen 801 piles on tech and style

Husqvarna has launched the hotly anticipated Vitpilen 801, a road-friendly sibling to the company’s Svartpilen scrambler.

Whilst the two bikes share much mechanically,  the new model is very much purposed for tackling tarmac.

The tech is impressive, the styling clean, with a distinctive front lamp to which Paul Browne has taken a particular fancy.

The new Vitpilen 801 is powered by a DOHC, 799 cc parallel-twin engine that makes a healthy 105bhp.

It sits in a chromium-molybdenum, (if you can let me know how to pronounce those last two words please feel free to get in touch) steel frame, where it’s a stressed member. And, because it has a dry sump its service intervals are pushed out to a convenient 15,000 kilometres.

The technology is impressive too, with features coming as standard including a quick shifter, Bosch ABS braking via radially mounted calipers, as well as traction control. They’re even of the cornering variety!

The traction control has ten settings dictating how much wheel slip (fun) the rider would like. A slipper clutch is also part of the package.

Gripping stuff

WP’s APEX suspension is also fitted as standard, with USD fronts and a single shock on the rear.

The new bike rolls on a set of cast alloy 17” wheels. These come as standard on Michelin Road 6 tyres, rubber that offers plenty of grip and matches the performance of the bike.

There are four ride settings. These include the usual Sport, Street and Rain, complimented by an optional fourth that the rider can customise to their own preference, including setting the traction control as well as the ABS.

All of this can be set using simple switch gear and displayed on a TFT screen.

Light headed

A navigator can also be displayed on the screen via a Bluetooth connection to the rider’s phone once the Husqvarna App has been downloaded. Picking music and ignoring phone calls are also manageable through the same system.

The Vitpilen 801 certainly looks the part, with simple styling that the company have made their own. I really like that cool headlamp that makes the bike stand out from the rest. Comparing it to another brand and model, it’s not too far from Yamaha’s MT 07.

If you’d like to find out more give Gavin, or any of the team, at CCM Racing a call on 014526107.

Husqvarna motorbike insurance quote? Call our specialist two-wheel team on 0818 945 950.