Adventure riders have been eagerly awaiting the Norden 901’s arrival since Husqvarna unveiled the concept at EICMA 2019. After an extensive development period, the Swedish marque finally blazes a trail into the middleweight ADV field with the 2022 Norden 901.
Husqvarna leverages the eight-valve, DOHC, 889cc parallel-Twin found in KTM’s 890 Adventure R for the new adventure bike. In the Norden, the wundermill produces 105 horsepower and 74 lb-ft of torque. The 901 borrows key elements from its Austrian relative, but it forges its own identity with balanced componentry.
Rally-inspired bodywork, a circular headlight, and Hi-Viz yellow accents immediately distinguish the 901 from the pack. The fully adjustable 43mm WP Apex suspension suits both on-road and off-road journeys with 8.7 inches of travel fore and 8.5 inches aft. Those long legs elevate the 450-pound (claimed, dry) Norden to 9.9-inch ground clearance and a 33.6-inch seat height (adjustable to 34.4 inches).
The 21-inch front/18-inch rear tubeless spoked wheels tackle tough terrain, while the Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires generate grip on the trail and the tarmac. Husqvarna amplifies that versatility with Street, Rain, and Offroad riding modes. The optional Explorer mode unlocks nine levels of adjustable rear-wheel slip, and Offroad mode offers switchable cornering ABS. Husqvarna’s Easy Shift feature allows clutchless bi-directional gear changes, while the Power Assist Slipper Clutch (PASC) smooths out clumsy downshifts and reduces lever effort.
According to Husky, the Norden 901’s 5-gallon fuel tank nets a maximum of 248 miles, and an ergonomically shaped seat keeps the rider comfortable in the saddle between fill-ups. Cruise control is standard equipment. The integrated front fairing/windscreen not only provides wind protection but also presents a mounting point for smartphones and navigation modules. Users can access turn-by-turn navigation, answer calls, and control media via the Norden 901’s controls with the optional smartphone Connectivity Unit.
Husqvarna also offers a range of luggage systems to enhance the middleweight adventurer’s touring capabilities. Those looking to further equip the Norden for the long haul can turn to the brand’s accessories catalog for add-ons such as heated grips and a tire-pressure-monitoring system (TPMS).
The 2022 Husqvarna Norden 901 will be available starting in November 2021, retailing for $13,999.
The post 2022 Husqvarna Norden 901 | First Look Review first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com
