The Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 is a striking embodiment of Scandinavian design fused with Austrian engineering, crafted to appeal to riders who crave a blend of minimalist aesthetics and robust performance. Launched in India in 2024, this scrambler-style motorcycle captures the essence of urban mobility while offering versatility for light off-road adventures. Manufactured under the Bajaj Auto umbrella in collaboration with KTM, the Svartpilen 401 inherits a performance-driven DNA, sharing its platform with the acclaimed KTM 390 Duke. Its name, “Svartpilen,” translates to “Black Arrow” in Swedish, reflecting its sleek, purposeful design and dynamic riding experience. With a focus on practicality, style, and modern technology, this bike targets young, style-conscious riders seeking a premium motorcycle that stands out in the crowded 400cc segment in India.
The Svartpilen 401 is more than just a mode of transport; it’s a statement of individuality. Its retro-modern design, characterized by a round LED headlight, compact fuel tank, and exposed engine components, exudes a raw, industrial charm. Unlike its louder, more aggressive counterparts, the Svartpilen 401 offers a refined riding experience, making it ideal for both city commutes and weekend getaways. In this detailed exploration, we delve into its technical specifications, variants, pricing, advanced features, and how it stacks up against its competitors in the Indian market.
Technical Specifications
Below is a comprehensive table outlining the technical specifications of the Husqvarna Svartpilen 401, compiled from reliable sources like BikeDekho and BikeWale, ensuring accuracy and relevance.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 398.63cc, Liquid-Cooled, Single-Cylinder, DOHC |
| Displacement | 398.63cc |
| Max Power | 46 PS @ 9,000 rpm |
| Max Torque | 39 Nm @ 7,000 rpm |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 29 kmpl |
| Mileage (Expert Reported) | 24.6–27 kmpl (varies based on riding conditions) |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual with Bi-Directional Quickshifter |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13.5 Litres |
| Kerb Weight | 171.2 kg |
| Seat Height | 820 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 177 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1357 mm (approx.) |
| Length x Width x Height | 2110 mm x 830 mm x 1090 mm (approx.) |
| Front Suspension | 43mm WP Apex USD Fork, Adjustable for Compression and Rebound |
| Rear Suspension | WP Apex Monoshock, Adjustable for Preload and Rebound |
| Brakes (Front) | 320mm Disc with Sintered Pads, Bybre, Dual-Channel ABS |
| Brakes (Rear) | 240mm Disc, Bybre, Dual-Channel ABS |
| Tyres (Front) | 110/70-17, Apollo Tramplr XR Block Pattern |
| Tyres (Rear) | 150/60-17, Apollo Tramplr XR Block Pattern |
| Frame | Steel Trellis Frame with Aluminium Swingarm |
| Top Speed | 160 kmph (claimed) |
Variants
The Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 is available in a single variant in India, keeping the lineup straightforward and focused.
| Variant | Ex-Showroom Price (Delhi) |
|---|---|
| Svartpilen 401 STD | ₹2,95,536 |
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the Svartpilen 401 varies across metro cities due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and other on-road costs. Below is a table detailing the on-road prices in key Indian metro cities, sourced from BikeWale.
| City | On-Road Price |
|---|---|
| Delhi | ₹3,44,261 |
| Mumbai | ₹3,53,871 |
| Bangalore | ₹3,73,092 |
| Chennai | ₹3,54,101 |
| Hyderabad | ₹3,53,804 |
| Kolkata | ₹3,53,405 |
| Pune | ₹3,61,723 |
| Kochi | ₹3,80,521 |
Design and Exteriors
The Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 is a visual masterpiece that blends retro aesthetics with modern functionality. Its design philosophy is rooted in simplicity and elegance, setting it apart from the flashy, overstyled motorcycles in its segment. The bike features a round LED headlight encircled by a distinctive LED DRL ring, giving it a timeless yet futuristic appeal. The minimalist flyscreen above the headlight subtly conceals the 5-inch TFT display, maintaining a clean look while offering practical wind protection. The fuel tank, with its sculpted extensions, flows seamlessly into the side panels, creating a cohesive silhouette that enhances the bike’s visual mass without compromising its compact form.
The Svartpilen 401’s scrambler styling is accentuated by its spoke wheels, which, while adding character, use tubed Apollo Tramplr XR tyres (110/70-17 front, 150/60-17 rear) for a rugged aesthetic. These tyres, replacing the earlier Pirelli Scorpion Rally STRs due to regulatory changes, provide decent grip for both on-road and light off-road use. The underbelly exhaust, a departure from the side-mounted unit of its predecessor, aligns with the KTM 390 Duke’s layout, contributing to a lower center of gravity and improved handling. The tail section is tidy, with a conventional rear fender that keeps muck at bay, though some riders suggest a tyre hugger could enhance its modern appeal. Available in a single Silver Grey color, the Svartpilen 401 exudes understated sophistication, making it a head-turner in urban settings.
The bike’s ergonomics are designed for versatility. With a seat height of 820mm, it’s accessible to a wide range of riders, though shorter individuals may find it slightly challenging in traffic. The upright riding position, facilitated by a braced handlebar, ensures comfort during long rides while maintaining agility for city maneuvering. The pillion grab rail, while functional, could benefit from a sleeker design to match the bike’s minimalist ethos. Overall, the Svartpilen 401’s exterior design strikes a balance between form and function, appealing to riders who value individuality over ostentation.
Interiors and Comfort
While motorcycles don’t have “interiors” in the traditional sense, the rider interface and comfort features of the Svartpilen 401 are noteworthy. The 5-inch TFT display is a highlight, offering crisp visuals and optional smartphone connectivity for navigation and call alerts. The display is intuitive, with 4-way menu switches on the left switchgear allowing easy access to riding modes and settings. A Type-C charging port adds practicality, ensuring riders can keep their devices powered during long journeys. The seat is well-cushioned and spacious, designed for both rider and pillion comfort, though extended rides may reveal its firmness for some.
The bike’s ergonomic layout promotes a relaxed riding posture, with the handlebar, footpegs, and seat aligned to reduce fatigue. The 820mm seat height, while manageable, may require shorter riders to tip-toe at stops, particularly with a pillion. The 13.5-litre fuel tank not only enhances range but also provides a solid anchor for the rider’s knees, improving control during spirited riding. Vibration levels are well-controlled, thanks to the refined 398.63cc engine, though some riders note mild buzz at higher RPMs, which diminishes after the initial run-in period. For taller riders, the Svartpilen 401 offers a more relaxed stance compared to the forward-leaning KTM 390 Duke, making it a better choice for touring.
Advanced Features
The Svartpilen 401 is packed with modern technology, making it one of the most feature-rich motorcycles in its segment. At its core is the ride-by-wire system, which ensures precise throttle response across varied conditions. The bi-directional quickshifter (Quickshifter+) allows seamless gear changes, enhancing the riding experience during both aggressive sprints and leisurely cruises. Traction control adds a layer of safety, particularly on slippery surfaces, while the Supermoto ABS mode allows riders to disable rear-wheel ABS for controlled slides, catering to advanced riders seeking a more dynamic experience.
The WP Apex suspension is fully adjustable, with compression and rebound settings on the front 43mm USD fork and preload and rebound adjustability on the rear monoshock. This setup ensures a plush ride on uneven roads while maintaining composure during cornering. The Bosch dual-channel ABS complements the Bybre disc brakes (320mm front, 240mm rear), offering confident stopping power with sintered pads for enhanced bite. Additional features like hazard warning lights and a lightweight aluminium swingarm underscore the bike’s attention to detail, blending practicality with performance.
Performance and Ride Quality
Powering the Svartpilen 401 is a 398.63cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine, delivering 46 PS at 9,000 rpm and 39 Nm at 7,000 rpm. This engine, shared with the KTM 390 Duke, is a gem, offering a potent mix of low-end grunt and top-end rush. The 6-speed gearbox, paired with a quickshifter, ensures smooth power delivery, making it equally adept at tackling city traffic and open highways. With a claimed top speed of 160 kmph, the Svartpilen 401 is no slouch, though real-world cruising is most comfortable between 100–120 kmph, where vibrations are minimal.
The bike’s mileage, rated at 29 kmpl (ARAI), translates to around 24.6–27 kmpl in real-world conditions, depending on riding style. This efficiency, combined with the 13.5-litre fuel tank, offers a range of approximately 350–390 km, ideal for weekend getaways. The steel trellis frame and aluminium swingarm contribute to a light kerb weight of 171.2 kg, enhancing agility without sacrificing stability. The Svartpilen 401 handles corners with precision, thanks to its adjustable WP suspension and grippy Apollo tyres, though the tubed tyres may be a minor inconvenience for some due to puncture repair challenges.
On the road, the Svartpilen 401 feels nimble yet planted, striking a balance between the aggressive KTM 390 Duke and the laid-back Triumph Scrambler 400 X. Its scrambler ergonomics encourage a relaxed riding style, making it suitable for both short commutes and longer journeys. However, the spoke wheels and tubed tyres limit its off-road capabilities to mild trails, positioning it more as an urban scrambler than a full-fledged adventure bike. The braking performance is excellent, with progressive bite and ABS intervention that feels unobtrusive, inspiring confidence in varied conditions.
Variants and Customization
The Svartpilen 401 is offered in a single STD variant, priced at ₹2,95,536 (ex-showroom, Delhi). This streamlined approach ensures that all buyers get the full suite of features, including the quickshifter, traction control, and adjustable suspension, without the complexity of multiple trims. Husqvarna offers a range of official accessories, such as panniers, bar-end mirrors, and protective guards, allowing riders to personalize their bikes for touring or aesthetics. The Silver Grey color option is versatile, complementing the bike’s minimalist design, though some enthusiasts hope for additional color choices in future updates.
Pricing and Value Proposition
The Svartpilen 401’s ex-showroom price of ₹2,95,536 positions it as a premium offering in the 400cc segment, competing with bikes like the Triumph Scrambler 400 X and KTM 390 Duke. Its on-road prices in metro cities, ranging from ₹3.44 lakh in Delhi to ₹3.80 lakh in Kochi, reflect additional costs like RTO and insurance. While the bike’s price is higher than budget-friendly options like the Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z, it justifies its tag with superior build quality, advanced electronics, and a unique design. The inclusion of a 5-year extended warranty and 1-year roadside assistance (effective from April 2024) adds value, ensuring peace of mind for owners.
Compared to its peers, the Svartpilen 401 offers a compelling mix of style, performance, and technology. Its quickshifter and adjustable suspension are segment-leading features, rarely found at this price point. However, the tubed tyres and single color option may deter some buyers, particularly those prioritizing practicality or variety. For riders willing to overlook these minor drawbacks, the Svartpilen 401 delivers a premium riding experience that feels worth the investment.
Close Competitors
The Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 operates in a competitive 400cc segment, where it faces off against several capable rivals. Below is an in-depth comparison with its closest competitors, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses relative to the Svartpilen.
Triumph Scrambler 400 X
The Triumph Scrambler 400 X (priced at ₹3.14 lakh on-road, Delhi) is the Svartpilen’s primary rival in the scrambler category. Powered by a 398.15cc single-cylinder engine producing 39.5 bhp and 37.5 Nm, it’s slightly less powerful but offers a smoother, more refined ride, thanks to its tractable power delivery. The Triumph’s retro design, with a round headlight and knobby tyres, appeals to classic bike enthusiasts, while its tubeless tyres and higher ground clearance (183mm) make it better suited for light off-roading. However, it lacks a quickshifter and traction control, features standard on the Svartpilen. The Scrambler 400 X’s higher seat height (835mm) may also be less accessible for shorter riders. While the Triumph excels in brand prestige and touring comfort, the Svartpilen 401 edges out with its modern electronics and sharper handling.
KTM 390 Duke
The KTM 390 Duke (₹3.13 lakh on-road, Delhi) shares its 398.63cc engine and platform with the Svartpilen, delivering identical power (46 PS, 39 Nm). However, its naked streetfighter styling and aggressive ergonomics cater to riders seeking raw performance over style. The Duke’s cornering ABS, full-color TFT display, and tubeless tyres give it a slight edge in technology and practicality. Its seat height (830mm) is marginally higher, and its forward-leaning stance may feel cramped for touring. The Svartpilen 401, with its relaxed ergonomics and scrambler aesthetics, is better suited for riders prioritizing comfort and uniqueness, though the Duke’s lower price and broader service network make it a strong alternative.
Triumph Speed 400
Priced at ₹2.94 lakh (on-road, Delhi), the Triumph Speed 400 is a retro roadster that competes indirectly with the Svartpilen. Its 398.15cc engine (39.5 bhp, 37.5 Nm) mirrors the Scrambler 400 X’s output, offering smooth performance and excellent low-end torque. The Speed 400’s tubeless tyres, lower seat height (790mm), and classic design make it more accessible and practical for daily use. However, it misses out on advanced features like a quickshifter or adjustable suspension, areas where the Svartpilen shines. The Speed 400’s affordability and Triumph’s premium branding make it a compelling option, but the Svartpilen’s dynamic handling and modern tech give it an edge for performance-oriented riders.
Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z
At ₹2.25 lakh (on-road, Delhi), the Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z is a budget-friendly alternative, powered by a 373cc engine producing 39.8 bhp and 35 Nm. Its naked bike design and aggressive pricing appeal to value-conscious buyers, but it lacks the refinement and features of the Svartpilen. The NS400Z’s ride-by-wire and dual-channel ABS are notable, but its suspension and build quality feel less premium. The Svartpilen 401’s scrambler charm, quickshifter, and adjustable WP suspension make it a more aspirational choice, though the Pulsar’s lower price and widespread service network are significant advantages.
QJ Motor SRK 400
The QJ Motor SRK 400 (₹3.69 lakh on-road, Delhi) is a lesser-known contender, featuring a 400cc parallel-twin engine with 40.9 bhp and 37 Nm. Its naked bike styling and tubeless tyres offer practicality, but its heavier weight (186 kg) and limited brand presence in India hinder its appeal. The Svartpilen 401’s lighter chassis, advanced electronics, and unique design make it a more attractive option for riders seeking a blend of performance and style.
Yamaha MT-03
The Yamaha MT-03 (₹4.60 lakh on-road, Delhi) is a premium naked bike with a 321cc twin-cylinder engine producing 41.4 bhp and 29.5 Nm. Its smooth power delivery and tubeless tyres are advantages, but its higher price and smaller engine make it less competitive. The Svartpilen 401’s larger displacement, scrambler versatility, and lower price position it as a better value proposition for most buyers.
Market Positioning and Rider Appeal
The Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 occupies a unique niche in India’s 400cc segment, blending scrambler aesthetics with modern performance. Unlike the KTM 390 Duke’s aggressive streetfighter vibe or the Triumph Scrambler 400 X’s classic charm, the Svartpilen appeals to riders who value understated style and versatility. Its premium features, such as the quickshifter and adjustable suspension, cater to enthusiasts seeking a dynamic riding experience, while its ergonomic design suits urban commuters and weekend explorers alike. However, the tubed tyres and single variant may limit its appeal for buyers prioritizing practicality or customization.
Husqvarna’s brand heritage, rooted in Swedish design and bolstered by KTM’s engineering, adds an aspirational quality to the Svartpilen 401. Its minimalist design resonates with younger riders who see motorcycles as extensions of their personality, while its shared platform with the KTM 390 Duke ensures reliability and performance. The bike’s service network, backed by Bajaj-KTM dealerships, is expanding, addressing concerns about after-sales support. For riders upgrading from 200–250cc bikes or seeking an alternative to Royal Enfield’s 350cc lineup, the Svartpilen 401 offers a premium yet accessible entry into the mid-capacity segment.
Final Thoughts!
The Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 is a compelling addition to India’s motorcycle landscape, combining Scandinavian design, modern technology, and spirited performance in a package that feels both unique and practical. Its 398.63cc engine, adjustable WP suspension, and advanced electronics make it a standout in the 400cc segment, while its minimalist aesthetics appeal to riders who dare to be different. Priced competitively at ₹2.95 lakh (ex-showroom), it offers excellent value, though the tubed tyres and single color option are minor drawbacks.
Against competitors like the Triumph Scrambler 400 X, KTM 390 Duke, and Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z, the Svartpilen 401 holds its own with a blend of style, comfort, and performance. Whether navigating city streets or exploring winding roads, this scrambler delivers a riding experience that’s as engaging as it is distinctive. For those seeking a motorcycle that balances form and function with a touch of individuality, the Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 is a worthy contender, poised to carve its niche in India’s vibrant two-wheeler market.
