thank you for an very good review! Im from Sweden my swlf and now living in Lima - Peru! 18 mil people city! and Havent ride a bike for 20 years but on my way to get one! and you just made my mind! thank you!
I think these little A2 KT/Huskys are a secret sweet spot, I've got a 390 Adventure. Same power as a Super Meteor but over 4 bags of cement lighter, makes them so easy to get out of the garage too, like you say, ideal for when you don't want to struggle as much any more 🤪 Thanks for sharing your review
One of my bikes is a KTM 390 Duke Mk2, so I know these engines are superb. Great gearboxes, too. The Svartpilen is better-looking. And I agree, better-looking than the Triumph 400s. Very good review. Nick
I've been riding since the '80s. I picked up a 390 Duke in 2018 with the intention of just keeping if for the summer. I got a kick out of it. Lots of character, and a light, flickable thing, I ended up keeping it until last year. I've got a V85TT now, which is great for longer trips, but not nearly as much fun around town. I'm debating getting a Svartpilen, to bring that back, but in a more visually appealing package than the Duke. Thanks for the video.
I'm impressed! And I haven't said that in a while. I can't come test ride it at Apple yards for 2 reasons, 1. It's 4000 miles away from here, and 2. I don't have a license, and I'm 71, been riding since '75, and I've never had a license! Big difference between UK and US Lol !
Fair play, you have just put a bike on so many more people's radar. Looks like a better option than the new triumph. I think your summary at the end was spot on. 👍
I had been curious about this bike for a number of years having seen it at M’cycle live for a few years. I decided to sell my Tiger 955 18 months ago as, at 60, found it too heavy ( yes dropped it) and don’t long distance tour any more. Was looking for a ‘scrambler type’ to summer commute 30 miles each way including A roads and M ways. Thought about an RE scram but couldn’t get past 24 hp and then remembered the Husky. Bought one from Appleyards for £4,750 as it was the outgoing model. Specs for the price are unbeatable, my only issue being the functionality of the outgoing Instrument display and a joke of a fuel gauge. The new tft looks a lot better. Practically for a 30 mile m’way /city commute it’s brilliant. I have to admit I bought on the specs and as far as the looks go, I am still not sure! I could be tempted by a Triumph 400x or an RE 450 scrambler or BSA Goldstar scrambler if they ever come out but for now, very happy with it. As a disclaimer, I also have an XSR900 for when I need to do long distances relatively quickly.
I test rode the previous year's model & found it really smooth riding, it seemed to hide all my flaws in gear shifting. The riding position was quite far forward though, as a new rider, I'm not sure if that's something I wouldn't enjoy, or just something I would need to get used to. I like the redesigned 2024 model a lot & the package of features is really compelling. I'm maybe tending towards a Triumph Speed 400 for my first bike though, as I really love that modern classic design. A tough choice, as they're both nice motorcycles.
KTM Germany had a huge discount on the previous year model of the Svartpilen 401 last week. 4490€ intstead of 6199€. And with a 0% intrest rate. My dealer is now just waiting for the Papers of my new 2023model 401 Svartpilen to arrive. They had a 2023 model next to a 2024model and one could clearly see that the 2024 model grew around 20%.
Thank you for mentioning the pillion seat, I wish reviewers would devote a moment or two to considering the passenger, it is for me quite a consideration as my wife likes to go out on the bike too and I dont want to discourage her by buying something seriously uncomfortable.
I was thisclose to buying one of these last year, and wish I had, instead of the other bike I was buying at the dealership. The bike that I bought that day shall remain nameless because it is just fine, but just not for me, so I don't want any potential buyers to think it was bad. I went through with the purchase because of a missed opportunity many years before that weighed on my mind and spirit. Anyway, I noticed that you didn't draw any comparisons between this motorcycle and the Himalayn 450 that you recently reviewed. I think that's telling, but I'm not sure in what way that it's telling. Also, I like your "measured" style of speaking; very good, indeed. Thank you for the video!
Hi mate, loved the video and it has actually convinced me to buy the 401 over the triumph 400x. I have even ordered it from Appleyard’s so you can claim a commission from them! I am down sizing from a 700gs. Sick of the heaviness, boring looks and stigma of having a BMW 😂 The bike is even more discounted now. Under 5 grand! A huge bargain compared to Triumph. Great review.
Another great video I do like the husky’s and ktm’s that little husky is very smart a lot better than the ktm390 that colour is definitely what I would choose and I’m surprised it will do 100 mph it’s definitely a great little scratcher or commuter for fun ideal also for a winter hack until the dreaded salt goes down then tuck that up in the shed with the garage queens 😁anyway loved the vid take care ride safe
I managed to buy one of these delivery next Wednesday. Can't wait! I've downgraded from 1000cc to 650cc now to this 399cc 40 odd HP sauce. Looking forward or backwards some will say...for the love of sport lol
Great video, as usual, unfortunately, having had a bad experience with KTM, I wouldn’t have another one if they were giving them away; once bitten, twice shy! Never again.
I did have a test ride on one of these and didn't like the seating position, Its a nice engine and the build quality is good. ideal commuter or city bike with its light weight.
On a windy day I'm sure the Super Meteor would hold the road much better. I have light to heavier bikes and each have their pros and cons. If only we all could win the big lotteries. 👍👍5🏍🙋♂️
As for adjectives, staccato comes to mind. This chapter you’ve produced for us seems much more reliant on reporting the data than the poetic prose I’ve become used to. Still, that’s nice for a change. So I’ll comment on that data: this little bike would have the new Triumph 400s for breakfast. Not even a fair comparison, really. As you said, this Husky is more modern in looks, not so retro. Looks are subjective. Performance is measurable. Thanks for the very informative and entertaining review!
Not everyone buys a bike based on performance, my Meteor 350 only has less than half the horsepower of this and weighs nearly 40kg more but it puts a smile on my face every time I ride it.
I suppose I should have qualified my comment, which was meant to be strictly objective. For the record, I’m old and I prefer retro styling. All the bikes I’ve ever ridden (there have been many dozens) put smiles on my face. I currently own a Triumph (‘19 Speed Twin) and smile a lot! Cheers!
Great bikes, mad little things that love to be ridden hard. Bags of character and although the looks divide opinion, I really like it. Best thing they've done is get shot of the awful instrument cluster on the earlier model.
I've always liked the look of the Svartpilelen, much better looking than the Duke but I think it it's a bit of a stretch to say it's better looking than the Triumph 400s but "the eye of the beholder" and all that I suppose. I think you were a bit disingenuous with your comment about the price being different between the Speed and Scrambler because it has to be remembered that the Speed is actually £600 cheaper than the Husqvarnas and even with the premium for the Scrambler it only comes out at the same price as the Husqvarna. A cracking good little bike though, this sector seems very hotly contested atm and I'll be very interested to see what the new CF Moto 450 MT offering is like when it arrives.
Hi Dave, a very interesting bike but one I’ll take a pass on I’m already smitten with my Moto Guzzi’s 😜 thank you all the same👍🏻 carry on that man Caio for now tat ta😊
Too small for my largish frame as are the Triumph 400s and its connotations with KTM also, rightly or wrongly, put me off. I've heard to many stories about reliability or lack of it when it comes to KTM to tempt me.
I don’t see any ny retro there, but that’s not a bad thing as I think it looks the dogs do das. If I were in that market I’d probably go for one of those.
@thebingleywheeler maybe they did bump it up in the last year or two? I wonder if the seating position is just as sporty on that one? Probably huh? I'm not a fan of it , just keep it upright , like a supermoto will ya Husqvarna?
I have heard the name ,but not familiar with or seen any about . Sound Scandinavian in origin , but wouldn’t be surprised if they built in one of the higher end Chinese factories like a lot of these European marques tend to be . The issues are likely to be like many of other obscure marques , lack of numerous dealers to cover all areas of U.K. & low volume sales , & possible shortage or lack of quick parts & spares supply . I reckon punters might be prepared to chance 3 to 4 grand on these less common marques ,but maybe not as much as 5 - 6 grand . The fly by wire ,quick shifter & other tech gubbins would put me off alone ,it’s all unnecessary shizzle I can do without , my left boot left & right hands are my quick shifter & correct control & speed for the conditions is my built in traction control & riding modes . I also carry an emergency universal throttle & clutch cable kit to cope with any possible throttle cable or clutch cable breakage . You can’t do that with a fly by wire system , if that plays up you are totally screwed & left at the side of the road . On places like the moors or similar that’s even worse ,you could be stuck there for hours or days before the recovery services even find your buzzard picked carcass . 👍
They are built in India by Bajaj. It has same platform and engine as Ktm duke 390 which is also built by Bajaj in India in the same factory. Bajaj ownes 49% of Ktm, Ktm ownes husqverna. Btw Bajaj also manufactures Triumph Speed 400 in India at different factory.
@@blackbirds1440 I consider the top Indian & top Chinese factory’s to be much of a muchness & well capable of producing excellent products for their price rage . But unless the product gets a huge response in their intended market ( U.K.) is unlikely to have much success or be in demand in that market . Pricing these sorts of machines at about 4 grand or less , would give them more chance of securing a foothold in the U.K. while they prove their sustainability to the buying punters . I doubt if there’s a dealer within 100 miles of my neck of the woods even flogging one of these husky’s ,or many punters that’s even heard of them ,never mind willing to risk 5 grand plus on one .
@@maskedavenger2578 first you write, I doubt there is a dealer within 100 miles, then suddenly you have a dealer close, you are a strange dude for sure 🤣
Cheap Chinese engine for a expensive motorcycle. No thanks! I miss the old 2 stroke dirt bikes that they used to make. I'd love to have one of the automatic ones. They were beautiful motorcycles as well.
Not a big fan of the current crop of Royal Enfield's. To me they just look boring. And the engines on the 650's look like squashed toads. I like the old Royal Enfield bikes from the 60's much better. This Husky puts out almost as much as the 650 RE, what's not to love. Ride safe Dave. Take care. Cheers
thank you for an very good review! Im from Sweden my swlf and now living in Lima - Peru! 18 mil people city! and Havent ride a bike for 20 years but on my way to get one! and you just made my mind! thank you!
Pleased to be of help 😊
Quick info about the pricing in Europe/Austria. The Vitpilen is 100€ cheaper here than the Svartpilen.
Thank you for your informative review :)
I think these little A2 KT/Huskys are a secret sweet spot, I've got a 390 Adventure. Same power as a Super Meteor but over 4 bags of cement lighter, makes them so easy to get out of the garage too, like you say, ideal for when you don't want to struggle as much any more 🤪 Thanks for sharing your review
So glad they added an extra gallon, couple of liters, to the new 24' models. I think they look sharp and the color is great.
One of my bikes is a KTM 390 Duke Mk2, so I know these engines are superb. Great gearboxes, too. The Svartpilen is better-looking. And I agree, better-looking than the Triumph 400s.
Very good review. Nick
Great review, thankd Dave. You obviously had a blast on that 😁
I've been riding since the '80s. I picked up a 390 Duke in 2018 with the intention of just keeping if for the summer. I got a kick out of it. Lots of character, and a light, flickable thing, I ended up keeping it until last year.
I've got a V85TT now, which is great for longer trips, but not nearly as much fun around town.
I'm debating getting a Svartpilen, to bring that back, but in a more visually appealing package than the Duke.
Thanks for the video.
Get one. Good idea.
i just bought a 2019 and it is some of the most fun i’ve had on a bike it really is a gem its a versatile Machine💪🏻
I'm impressed! And I haven't said that in a while. I can't come test ride it at Apple yards for 2 reasons, 1. It's 4000 miles away from here, and 2. I don't have a license, and I'm 71, been riding since '75, and I've never had a license! Big difference between UK and US Lol !
Excuses, excuses
Meant to add a ☺️
Fair play, you have just put a bike on so many more people's radar. Looks like a better option than the new triumph. I think your summary at the end was spot on. 👍
Cheers Trev
Love the spoked wheels. I would just do bar risers, heated grips and hand guards. Smart little svelte do it all!
I had been curious about this bike for a number of years having seen it at M’cycle live for a few years. I decided to sell my Tiger 955 18 months ago as, at 60, found it too heavy ( yes dropped it) and don’t long distance tour any more. Was looking for a ‘scrambler type’ to summer commute 30 miles each way including A roads and M ways. Thought about an RE scram but couldn’t get past 24 hp and then remembered the Husky. Bought one from Appleyards for £4,750 as it was the outgoing model. Specs for the price are unbeatable, my only issue being the functionality of the outgoing
Instrument display and a joke of a fuel gauge. The new tft looks a lot better. Practically for a 30 mile m’way /city commute it’s brilliant. I have to admit I bought on the specs and as far as the looks go, I am still not sure! I could be tempted by a Triumph 400x or an RE 450 scrambler or BSA Goldstar scrambler if they ever come out but for now, very happy with it. As a disclaimer, I also have an XSR900 for when I need to do long distances relatively quickly.
I test rode the previous year's model & found it really smooth riding, it seemed to hide all my flaws in gear shifting. The riding position was quite far forward though, as a new rider, I'm not sure if that's something I wouldn't enjoy, or just something I would need to get used to. I like the redesigned 2024 model a lot & the package of features is really compelling.
I'm maybe tending towards a Triumph Speed 400 for my first bike though, as I really love that modern classic design. A tough choice, as they're both nice motorcycles.
That was a nice bike and the weight at my age is a bonus!
Ok this might be a worthwhile review!
It is a shame they removed front luggage rack from the old model, was really useful for mounting a kriega us 20 dry bag for the daily commute
I think I may have seen it listed as an accessory 🤔
Enjoyable review delivered in your inimitable style.
Definitely a feel good motorcycle; nice one.
Ride safe
Neil🏍👍
Awesome and fun review Sir! 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
KTM Germany had a huge discount on the previous year model of the Svartpilen 401 last week. 4490€ intstead of 6199€. And with a 0% intrest rate. My dealer is now just waiting for the Papers of my new 2023model 401 Svartpilen to arrive. They had a 2023 model next to a 2024model and one could clearly see that the 2024 model grew around 20%.
I saw one parked today and quite liked it although I thought it had quite a short wheelbase
Thank you for mentioning the pillion seat, I wish reviewers would devote a moment or two to considering the passenger, it is for me quite a consideration as my wife likes to go out on the bike too and I dont want to discourage her by buying something seriously uncomfortable.
You’re very welcome and yes a good point
I was thisclose to buying one of these last year, and wish I had, instead of the other bike I was buying at the dealership. The bike that I bought that day shall remain nameless because it is just fine, but just not for me, so I don't want any potential buyers to think it was bad. I went through with the purchase because of a missed opportunity many years before that weighed on my mind and spirit. Anyway, I noticed that you didn't draw any comparisons between this motorcycle and the Himalayn 450 that you recently reviewed. I think that's telling, but I'm not sure in what way that it's telling. Also, I like your "measured" style of speaking; very good, indeed. Thank you for the video!
Well I loved the new Himmy 😎
Definitely a cracking looking and performing bike !. Nice video.
Its a really fun bike both on road and light green lanes. Really like mine.
Thinking about buying my first bike in the coming year. This is currently my favorite. Great video, thanks.
Hi mate, loved the video and it has actually convinced me to buy the 401 over the triumph 400x. I have even ordered it from Appleyard’s so you can claim a commission from them! I am down sizing from a 700gs. Sick of the heaviness, boring looks and stigma of having a BMW 😂 The bike is even more discounted now. Under 5 grand! A huge bargain compared to Triumph. Great review.
Good for you Jamie they’re a highly individual bike and a stack of fun to ride 😎👍🏻
Another great video I do like the husky’s and ktm’s that little husky is very smart a lot better than the ktm390 that colour is definitely what I would choose and I’m surprised it will do 100 mph it’s definitely a great little scratcher or commuter for fun ideal also for a winter hack until the dreaded salt goes down then tuck that up in the shed with the garage queens 😁anyway loved the vid take care ride safe
I managed to buy one of these delivery next Wednesday. Can't wait! I've downgraded from 1000cc to 650cc now to this 399cc 40 odd HP sauce. Looking forward or backwards some will say...for the love of sport lol
Good review, great looking individual bike as you say. Looks great fun and a different style. Only criticism, spray shock black. 😊
Excellent review
Great video, as usual, unfortunately, having had a bad experience with KTM, I wouldn’t have another one if they were giving them away; once bitten, twice shy! Never again.
1:54 a name only it's mother could love 😂😂
I did have a test ride on one of these and didn't like the seating position, Its a nice engine and the build quality is good. ideal commuter or city bike with its light weight.
On a windy day I'm sure the Super Meteor would hold the road much better. I have light to heavier bikes and each have their pros and cons. If only we all could win the big lotteries. 👍👍5🏍🙋♂️
Looks like a really nice bike for the money.....
As for adjectives, staccato comes to mind. This chapter you’ve produced for us seems much more reliant on reporting the data than the poetic prose I’ve become used to. Still, that’s nice for a change. So I’ll comment on that data: this little bike would have the new Triumph 400s for breakfast. Not even a fair comparison, really. As you said, this Husky is more modern in looks, not so retro. Looks are subjective. Performance is measurable.
Thanks for the very informative and entertaining review!
Not everyone buys a bike based on performance, my Meteor 350 only has less than half the horsepower of this and weighs nearly 40kg more but it puts a smile on my face every time I ride it.
I suppose I should have qualified my comment, which was meant to be strictly objective. For the record, I’m old and I prefer retro styling. All the bikes I’ve ever ridden (there have been many dozens) put smiles on my face. I currently own a Triumph (‘19 Speed Twin) and smile a lot! Cheers!
Great bikes, mad little things that love to be ridden hard. Bags of character and although the looks divide opinion, I really like it. Best thing they've done is get shot of the awful instrument cluster on the earlier model.
Not my style of bike, but I do like the power/weight ratio. At my vintage, being in my 79th year, lightness is becoming an ever-important factor.
Have to look at one in the flesh, currently prefer the more retro looks of the Triumph.
I've always liked the look of the Svartpilelen, much better looking than the Duke but I think it it's a bit of a stretch to say it's better looking than the Triumph 400s but "the eye of the beholder" and all that I suppose. I think you were a bit disingenuous with your comment about the price being different between the Speed and Scrambler because it has to be remembered that the Speed is actually £600 cheaper than the Husqvarnas and even with the premium for the Scrambler it only comes out at the same price as the Husqvarna. A cracking good little bike though, this sector seems very hotly contested atm and I'll be very interested to see what the new CF Moto 450 MT offering is like when it arrives.
I think the Svartpilen is better-looking than the Triumph 400s.
@@user-sw2lv3zp6o As I said "eye of the beholder"
Did they fix the rattling fuel level float when the tank is full?
It seems so
Hi Dave, a very interesting bike but one I’ll take a pass on I’m already smitten with my Moto Guzzi’s 😜 thank you all the same👍🏻 carry on that man Caio for now tat ta😊
The Black Arrow 😁
Its another Bajaj?
Too small for my largish frame as are the Triumph 400s and its connotations with KTM also, rightly or wrongly, put me off. I've heard to many stories about reliability or lack of it when it comes to KTM to tempt me.
I don’t see any ny retro there, but that’s not a bad thing as I think it looks the dogs do das. If I were in that market I’d probably go for one of those.
Headlight shape is sort of retro….ish….ill get my coat 😂
I think that bike looks cock on 👍leg position looks similar to the Hunter 350 but more power
Hmmm , here in the US the difference between the Svart 401 and the Vit is 701cc
801 here in uk
@thebingleywheeler maybe they did bump it up in the last year or two? I wonder if the seating position is just as sporty on that one? Probably huh? I'm not a fan of it , just keep it upright , like a supermoto will ya Husqvarna?
So Dave it's a ktm for those that don't like angry orange insects.
Better than the old Himalayan 411?
Different altogether
30:40 I think these are a bit of a Marmite bike in terms of look 😉
I have heard the name ,but not familiar with or seen any about . Sound Scandinavian in origin , but wouldn’t be surprised if they built in one of the higher end Chinese factories like a lot of these European marques tend to be . The issues are likely to be like many of other obscure marques , lack of numerous dealers to cover all areas of U.K. & low volume sales , & possible shortage or lack of quick parts & spares supply . I reckon punters might be prepared to chance 3 to 4 grand on these less common marques ,but maybe not as much as 5 - 6 grand . The fly by wire ,quick shifter & other tech gubbins would put me off alone ,it’s all unnecessary shizzle I can do without , my left boot left & right hands are my quick shifter & correct control & speed for the conditions is my built in traction control & riding modes . I also carry an emergency universal throttle & clutch cable kit to cope with any possible throttle cable or clutch cable breakage . You can’t do that with a fly by wire system , if that plays up you are totally screwed & left at the side of the road . On places like the moors or similar that’s even worse ,you could be stuck there for hours or days before the recovery services even find your buzzard picked carcass . 👍
They are built in India by Bajaj. It has same platform and engine as Ktm duke 390 which is also built by Bajaj in India in the same factory. Bajaj ownes 49% of Ktm, Ktm ownes husqverna. Btw Bajaj also manufactures Triumph Speed 400 in India at different factory.
@@blackbirds1440 I consider the top Indian & top Chinese factory’s to be much of a muchness & well capable of producing excellent products for their price rage . But unless the product gets a huge response in their intended market ( U.K.) is unlikely to have much success or be in demand in that market . Pricing these sorts of machines at about 4 grand or less , would give them more chance of securing a foothold in the U.K. while they prove their sustainability to the buying punters . I doubt if there’s a dealer within 100 miles of my neck of the woods even flogging one of these husky’s ,or many punters that’s even heard of them ,never mind willing to risk 5 grand plus on one .
Husqvarna, obscure? 😂
@@GurrasGarage They are in my neck of the woods in the U.K. never seen one on the road . I been riding motorcycles on road for 54 years .
@@maskedavenger2578 first you write, I doubt there is a dealer within 100 miles, then suddenly you have a dealer close, you are a strange dude for sure 🤣
Cheap Chinese engine for a expensive motorcycle. No thanks! I miss the old 2 stroke dirt bikes that they used to make. I'd love to have one of the automatic ones. They were beautiful motorcycles as well.
Isn’t the engine made in India though??
@@pauls8456 Engine is made in China from Chinesem.
@@frankmarkovcijr5459 interesting is the new KTM 399 built by them as well? I think KTM part owns some Chinese manufacturers.
Pronounced Hoosqvarna... Had a KTM 390 and what i hated about it was the sound of the engine... Think fishing boat
wsp unc
They just sound like a bag of hammers being shaken. Old singles didn’t sound as bad as this. Other than that I love it. Nice review 👍🏻👍🏻
Sounds like a sewing machine
It do
Not a big fan of the current crop of Royal Enfield's. To me they just look boring. And the engines on the 650's look like squashed toads. I like the old Royal Enfield bikes from the 60's much better. This Husky puts out almost as much as the 650 RE, what's not to love. Ride safe Dave. Take care. Cheers
You need some new material.
@@borderlands6606 Probably so.
No front rack, uglyyyyyy tail, the new design is terrible, 2018 - 2023 is unique.