Borrowing the engine found in the KTM 890 Adventure, sister company Husqvarna has introduced the new Norden 901. The Norden 901 is less of a hard-core dirt machine than KTM’s Adventure R, but it should still be quite capable off-road with 220mm of suspension travel.
Husqvarna continues with its unique styling (admittedly polarizing to some) which emphasizes the company’s Swedish roots. The Norden 901 has all of the latest rider electronic aids that accompany a Bosch IMU.
Here is the detailed press information from Husqvarna:
Introduction
The all-new Norden 901 is here to take inquisitive, adventurous riders further, inspiring them to go beyond their well-established routes and on to unexplored terrain.
Rapid, agile and fun, the Norden 901 embodies the progressive thinking of Husqvarna Motorcycles in a motorcycle built to make light work of long days in the saddle, covering vast distances on tarmac and offroad.
The Norden 901 is packed with useful technology to allow the intrepid traveler to focus on the ride. The 889 cc parallel-twin engine acts as a stressed member in its chromium-molybdenum steel frame and delivers smooth power and punchy torque, controlled by a ride-by-wire throttle. There are three selectable ride modes as standard (Street, Rain, Offroad) and an optional Explorer mode to cater to every circumstance the Norden 901 rider might encounter. An Easy Shift function allows for clutchless changes up and down the six-speed gearbox, while a Power Assist Slipper Clutch (PASC) maximizes rear wheel composure.
Adventure riding is about exploring the unknown, so having a motorcycle to back up the rider in extreme situations is essential. Switchable Bosch Cornering ABS with Street and Offroad modes and Husqvarna Motorcycles’ lean-angle sensitive Cornering Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC) are there to assist.
WP APEX suspension provides exceptional comfort wherever the Norden 901 and its rider go, and tubeless spoked wheels fitted with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires guarantee optimum performance on the street and offroad.
A large-capacity 5-gallon (19-liter) fuel tank provides an extended range of up to 248 miles (400 km) so Norden 901 riders will always be able to go the distance.
Technical highlights:
- Chromium-molybdenum steel frame with engine as stressed member
- 889 cc parallel-twin engine with ride-by-wire throttle
- Adjustable WP APEX suspension provide exceptional comfort both on the street and offroad
- Three selectable ride modes as standard (Street, Rain, Offroad) and an optional Explorer mode
- Cutting-edge, switchable cornering ABS with Offroad mode
- Ride-by-wire throttle
- Easy Shift function
- Cornering-sensitive traction control allows for nine levels of adjustable rear wheel slip (in Explorer mode)
- Power Assist Slipper Clutch (PASC)
- Tubeless spoked wheels and Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires for peak performance on the street and offroad
- Large capacity, 5-gallon (19-liter) fuel tank provides an extended range of up to 248 miles
- Optional Connectivity Unit provides turn-by-turn navigation, telephone call reception and music selection functionality from the rider’s smartphone
Features and benefits: Chassis
Chromium-molybdenum steel frame
The frame uses a tubular chromium-molybdenum steel frame with the engine as a stressed member to reduce weight and size. The overall design and engineering were aimed at providing a compact unit and weight reduction to guarantee high levels of agility and stability. The laser-cut components are robot-welded and hydro-formed ensuring flawless precision and consistent quality. By using high-grade chromium-molybdenum tubular steel, detailed feedback is delivered to the rider through precisely engineered torsional rigidity and longitudinal flex. Additionally, the premium black powder coating and standard frame protectors guarantee superior protection and durability.
The geometry of the motorcycle was developed to create a world-class travel bike. It provides light handling and is sporty on the street, while also being comfortable for longer distances and offering unrivalled offroad capability. The rear shock is angled to reduce seat height. The rider position is relatively close to the front wheel, improving front wheel feel and grip while the compact frame allows for a long swingarm to aid traction.
The steel trellis subframe helps keep overall weight low. It was developed to be compact, lightweight but also strong enough to carry a passenger and luggage under the challenging conditions that can be expected when exploring beyond the paved road.
- Precisely engineered torsional rigidity and longitudinal flex → detailed feedback for maximum rider confidence and comfort
- Lightweight construction → excellent agility and handling
Aluminum swingarm
The signature gravity die-cast, open-lattice swingarm is precisely manufactured from lightweight aluminum and has been specifically engineered for stiffness and stability while still offering excellent flex characteristics.
By using a direct link for the rear shock, complexity and parts are reduced to allow for easy maintenance, while the specific length of the swingarm aids in traction, stability and suspension set-up.
- Lightweight and strong for confident handling and comfort
Front suspension
The WP APEX 43 mm upside-down front forks with 220 mm travel deliver precise performance and comfort in varying environments. Using a split damping function on the open-cartridge forks, compression and rebound damping can be adjusted effortlessly using the easy access clickers located on the fork tube tops. These allow the rider to personalize the ride characteristics to their own preference and varying conditions.
A steering damper aids in stability when riding on harsh street surfaces but does not interfere with offroad riding. Additionally, the frame is ready for high-performance adjustable offroad steering dampers.
- WP APEX 43 mm upside-down forks → precise performance and comfort
- 220 mm suspension travel → perfect combination of street and offroad capability
- Easy access clicker dials → effortless damping changes
Rear suspension
The Norden 901 is fitted with a WP APEX shock absorber providing 215 mm of rear-wheel travel for the perfect balance of street and offroad riding with all-day riding comfort. The damping behavior can be adjusted with a rebound damping adjuster, and there is a hand adjuster for spring preload. The rebound damping adjustability allows the rider to adapt the shock’s response for different riding situations, while the quick adjustment of the spring preload allows for different loadings of the bike such as when luggage or a passenger are carried.
- WP APEX monoshock → adjustable for rebound damping and preload
- 215 mm rear-wheel travel (78.5 mm suspension travel)
Aluminum triple clamps and handlebars
Lightweight, strong and stiff for stability, with the right amount of flex to provide the rider with feel for what the chassis is doing.
The forged aluminum triple clamps are a mark of the premium quality that comes as standard on the Norden 901. Crafted using lightweight aluminum, the triple clamps are designed with a specific rigidity to ensure high levels of strength and tracking stability while also delivering precise chassis feedback and comfort to the rider. Additionally, the steering stem is made of high-strength aluminum instead of steel for excellent reliability with minimal weight.
Aluminum tapered handlebars allow maximum control while offering a comfortable riding position and the six handlebar mounting positions provide an adjustment range of 30 mm (front to rear) for customizable ergonomics.
- Precisely engineered flex → tracking stability and precise feedback
- Aluminum tapered handlebars → maximum control and comfort
Footrests
The strong, forged aluminum footrest holders were developed to provide superior ergonomics while the cast steel footrests have been specifically engineered for all-day riding, both in seated or standing positions, wearing street or offroad boots. These provide exceptional comfort allowing the rider to carry on for extended periods of time.
Additionally, the footrests have rubber inserts which can be removed when added grip is necessary in challenging terrain and a reversable rear brake lever tip allows for a custom set-up tailored towards street or offroad boots.
Bodywork
The Norden 901 features state-of-the-art bodywork with a height-adjustable two-piece seat that provides exceptional grip and comfort in all conditions. Striking colors and graphics highlight Husqvarna Motorcycles’ progressive design. Tightly wrapped around the engine and frame, the Norden’s bodywork is ergonomically designed to connect the rider’s body with the bike for a perfect fit, providing total control in all riding situations. Handguards fitted as standard protect the rider’s hands from the elements and stray foliage.
Based on extensive experience from Husqvarna Motorsports Rally development, a front carrier with an integrated LED headlight and standard-fitment fog lights has a slim profile and is integral to the Norden’s aerodynamic efficiency. An inner spoiler functions both as a structural element for the fog lights and instrument holder, as well as an air guide routing air through the bodywork for added stability at high speeds. Additionally, an integrated 12 V connector allows for easy charging of handheld devices mounted to the handlebars or on the mounting point above the main dashboard.
Nestled into the front-end, a premium LED headlight conveys an unmistakable look. A daytime running light circles the circumference of the headlight making the Norden 901 clearly visible in all conditions. The standard-fitment fog lights provide additional visibility in challenging conditions and when riding at night. These, together with the LED taillight, give the Norden a progressive, minimalistic look.
- Functional design → carefully engineered aerodynamics for maximum control and stability
- Integrated LED headlight and fog lights → modern and minimalistic look
- Striking colors and graphics → highlight Husqvarna Motorcycles’ progressive design
- Slim bodywork → easy movement and exceptional ergonomics for all sizes of rider
Seat
The height-adjustable two-piece seat offers welcome comfort for extended journeys. The rider seat is narrow towards the front, making it easier for the rider to place their feet on the ground as required. Precisely engineered seat foam firmness ensures that the rider remains comfortable even when riding all day long.
The seat cover uses a mixture of high-quality materials to deliver superior comfort and durability. Padded and heat-stamped ribs on the rider seat provide additional comfort and prevent slip in wet conditions.
Additionally, ergonomic rider and passenger heated seats are available as Technical Accessories to give maximum comfort on long riding days in challenging conditions.
Fuel tank
The fuel tank is a central element of the design and engineering concept of the Norden 901. The target was to provide slim ergonomics similar to those of a Dakar Rally bike. Based on extensive experience from motorsports development, the rotation-molded fuel tank places its main volume ahead of the rider’s knees, wrapped around the centrally mounted engine.
This lowers the center of gravity and helps provide spirited handling, both on the street and offroad. Additionally, the tank does not disturb freedom of movement as it allows for a straighter seat, giving the rider more freedom to move between riding positions. It also allows the seat to be lower which aids in the overall accessibility of the motorcycle without compromising ground clearance.
Fuel capacity is approximately 5 gallons (19 liters) which combined with exceptional fuel economy gives a range of about 248 miles (400 km), providing a significant advantage on extended journeys. A premium filler cap featuring a machined Husqvarna Motorcycles logo adds to the functional design of the fuel tank.
The lower part of the tank also protects the rider’s legs from cold air, dirt or water spray when travelling in demanding conditions.
TFT dashboard
The Norden 901 is equipped with a state-of-the-art 5” TFT display. The full-color display is easily readable with the main information positioned so the rider can immediately process it.
The display’s configuration can be varied and automatically adapts to changes in environmental light. The rider can select which information they would like to have displayed on the screen. This includes the trip meter, fuel range and fuel consumption, water temperature, and so on. All ride mode and ABS settings are immediately visible on the screen. Additionally, a configurable shift light blinks to indicate when to change gear.
With the Ride Husqvarna Motorcycles App, a smartphone can be connected to the bike through the optional Connectivity Unit for turn-by-turn navigation, to accept phone calls and listen to music.
Wheels and tires
The spoked 21” front and 18” rear tubeless wheels ensure high levels of strength and durability with minimal unsprung weight for exceptional street and offroad riding performance. The wheel hubs feature a black anodized finish for premium looks and durability.
Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires are fitted to the wheels, 90/90-21 on a 2.5” rim at the front and 150/70-18 on a 4.5” rim at the rear. These high-end tires offer exceptional grip and durability across a wide range of conditions.
- Tubeless spoked wheels → added comfort and less risk of flat tires
- Lightweight but strong and reliable construction → minimal unsprung weight
- Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires → exceptional grip and durability on the street and offroad
Brakes
The Norden 901 features a state-of-the-art braking system developed with J.Juan. With its MotoGP-derived technology, the leading Spanish brake supplier delivers exceptional performance and reliability. Black anodized brake calipers and a lasered Husqvarna Motorcycles logo highlight the progressive design and premium finish.
Up front, four-piston, radially mounted brake calipers and two Ø 320 mm brake discs allow for a perfect mix of control and stopping power on tarmac and loose surfaces. The strength of the piston spring in the master cylinder has been specifically calculated for exceptional feel and feedback at the brake lever, while ‘Slim-Seal’ technology allows for greater precision in the pressure applied by the caliper pistons.
The rear brake features a Ø 260 mm brake disc actuated by a two-piston floating caliper. The isolated pistons in the caliper in conjunction with isolation plates between the pads and pistons provide exceptional heat stability when the brake gets stressed in long downhill sections. Additionally, the rear caliper brake hose fittings are made of stainless steel in order to help dissipate heat.
The Bosch ABS system fitted as standard prevents wheel lock-up under hard braking and can be deactivated on the rear wheel for more advanced riders.
- J.Juan braking system → controlled, confident braking performance on all surfaces
- Bosch ABS → prevents wheel lock-up under hard braking
Exhaust
The stainless-steel exhaust system allows the engine to breathe freely while maintaining low noise and exhaust emissions. Concealed within the framework, the exhaust system features a premuffler and final silencer layout. The premuffler aids in centralizing mass as it allows for a smaller, lighter silencer.
- Two-part stainless-steel exhaust → centralized mass and enhanced durability without added weight
Features and benefits: Engine
The 889 cc, double overhead camshaft, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin cylinder engine features the latest technology in terms of design and electronics. The maximum power output at 8,000 rpm and torque of at 6,500 rpm deliver excellent performance on road or off and leave riders in no doubt of the broad potential of this state-of-the-art masterpiece. The extremely lightweight engine weighs only 117.7 lbs (53.4 kg) without oil but including all components such as electric start, throttle bodies, clutch and coolant lines. Reliability, durability and efficiency are guaranteed by technical solutions such as active crankcase evacuation and a semi dry-sump lubrication which reduce oil friction and pump losses contributing to the long 15,000 km service intervals and extremely low fuel consumption, in-turn lowering the cost of ownership of this class-leading twin cylinder power plant.
- Performance across the rev range
- Long service intervals and low fuel consumption → low cost of ownership
- Cutting-edge ride-by-wire electronics → class-leading twin cylinder technology and performance
Cylinder head
A smooth power delivery is guaranteed thanks to the state-of-the-art four-valve twin cylinder head with chain-driven camshafts and single-spark ignition. The camshafts are assembled from lightweight materials to achieve a weight advantage compared with forged camshafts, and the cam profile has been developed to create an especially torquey engine. The 37 mm steel intake and 30 mm exhaust valves with oval steel springs are actuated via DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coated finger followers for minimal friction while delivering exact valve timing at higher engine speeds. The camchain is tensioned by a hydraulic chain tensioner which provides outstanding reliability.
In addition, the intake ports have been CFD (Computer Fluid Dynamics) flow-optimized for the maximum air flow needed for high performance.
- Double overhead camshaft → compact cylinder head design, low friction and lightweight
- Flow-optimized intake ports → maximum airflow for high performance and smooth engine character
Crankcases
The horizontally split crankcases allow for the engine’s large bore. They are aluminum high-pressure cast which allows for reduced wall thickness for weight optimization, and optimized surfaces allow the engine designers more freedom in their design.
The Nikasil-coated aluminum cylinders are an integral part of the sleeveless engine casing. The open-deck cylinder construction allows for optimal cooling, reduced production tolerances, and minimizes the potential for cylinder warpage during production.
Crankshaft, conrod and piston
The crankshaft features a 68.8 mm stroke and runs on plain bearings to ensure high reliability and long service intervals. The rotating mass of the crankshaft has been specifically calculated for improved engine behavior at part throttle and constant speed. In addition, it is beneficial for cornering stability without compromising the agile riding character.
The plain bearing-type connecting rod links to the large-bore 90.7 mm piston at a trapezoidal (V-shaped) recess which helps reduce oscillating mass. The connecting rod bearing at the top end is bronze.
The forged pistons feature a bridged-box design with three piston rings. Due to the box construction, the piston weight is kept to a minimum while providing long durability. Additionally, the engine features two oil jets per piston for optimal cooling of the piston. Compression ratio is a high 13.5:1.
To increase comfort and reduce vibration, the engine is fitted with two balancer shafts, one in front of the crankshaft and the other in the cylinder head between the two camshafts, reducing inertia forces for a smooth ride.
- Large bore and long stroke → 90.7 mm / 68.8 mm
- Forged aluminum bridged-box pistons → high performance and durability with minimal weight
- Two counter-balancer shafts and minimized oscillating masses → lower vibration
EMS/ride-by-wire throttle
The powerful and torquey twin-cylinder engine is fitted with two 46 mm throttle bodies made by Dell’Orto. There is no mechanical linkage to the throttle grip. Instead, as the rider twists the throttle open or closed, the throttle valves are electronically controlled by the engine management system (EMS). The EMS continuously compares engine parameters with data from sensors and adjusts the throttle valves accordingly, resulting in perfect power delivery and throttle response.
To eliminate interferences between the cylinders at small throttle openings, each cylinder features a separate intake tract while a sensor in each throttle body measures and regulates the manifold pressure.
Additionally, a knock sensor on the cylinder head is fitted to detect pre-ignition or ‘knock’ in the combustion chambers – an important feature should poor quality fuel be encountered when travelling the world. The engine electronics react to vibration caused by knock by retarding the ignition and consequently protecting the engine against possible damage.
- Electronically controlled throttle → perfect power delivery and throttle response
- Active knock control → protects the engine from possible damage due to poor fuel quality
Power Assist Slipper Clutch (PASC) slipper clutch
The Power Assist Slipper Clutch (PASC) maximizes rear wheel grip under hard acceleration as well as preventing rear wheel instability and hopping when braking hard and coming down the gearbox into a turn, ensuring maximum control and smooth downshifting. As the slipper clutch opens when the engine back-torque becomes too high, it prevents destabilizing rear wheel chatter when braking sharply or decelerating. When the rider opens the throttle, it reduces the hand effort required at the clutch lever for changing gears and reduces lever vibration. This allows the clutch to be controlled with just the little finger, saving rider energy for extended trips and challenging conditions.
The specifically engineered friction plates provide a high friction value to increase durability and heat resistance while the steel discs guarantee sufficient oil separation for easy engagement of neutral.
- PASC slipper clutch → maximum control under hard acceleration, braking and down-shifting
Gearbox
The engine features a six-speed sequential gearbox which ensures quick and precise gear changing due to a short shift-lever travel, light spring action and sophisticated settings of the Easy Shift feature that comes as standard.
For added confidence in challenging environments, the gearbox is linked to an Easy Shift sensor which allows the rider to make seamless up- and downshifts without the use of the clutch. The sensor works by relaying the moment the rider actuates the gear lever to the ECU which in turn matches engine parameters to allow a simple gear change at any revs or engine load.
Based on extensive experience from Husqvarna Motorsport development, the drive sprocket features a screw-retained design as on the FR 450 Rally race engine. This allows for easier maintenance and quick gearing changes when required.
Additionally, the glass bead-blasted teeth of the fourth, fifth and sixth gears provide exceptional reliability.
Oil circulation
The engine’s oil circulation is based on a semi-dry sump system to reduce friction losses and allow for a compact build. The compact engine provides the engineers with more freedom as to where they place the engine in the chassis, resulting in a low center of gravity and reducing the height of the seat.
In the state-of-the-art engine, oil is actively pumped out of the crankcase, clutch housing and gearbox. An oil underpressure of 0.45 bar ensures that lubricant does not flow through the engine unnecessarily, reducing friction losses and increasing performance. The oil sump is integrated into the oil pump housing, together with two pumps (one scavenge, one supply) and a pressure regulation valve. Additionally, to maintain efficient oil temperature, the engine is equipped with a large oil cooler.
Features and benefits: Electronics
Easy Shift
The Norden 901 is equipped with a Husqvarna Motorsport Rally-derived Easy Shift function. Up and down gearshifts can be performed without the need to actuate the clutch lever which provides several benefits:
- Shorter shift times
- A more precise and smoother ride, since clutch actuation and backing off the throttle are no longer required
- The load reversal impact on the rear wheel is noticeably reduced
- Rear wheel traction is improved
- The rider can keep full grip on the handlebars
Easy Shift uses two sensors. One sensor is on the shift arm, which detects the movement on the shift lever rod when the rider upshifts. The system then cuts the ignition instantaneously. As soon as the second sensor detects the gear engagement, it reapplies the injection and opens the butterfly valves, ensuring fast and smooth action at all throttle openings and engine speeds. When downshifting, the system matches the engine speed to the speed of the lower gear.
Additionally, the system can also be deactivated if desired by the rider.
Cornering ABS
The latest technology in braking systems is fitted to the Norden 901. The Bosch Cornering ABS system is specifically set up for the motorcycle and allows riders to always use the full power of their brakes while taking the lean angle of the motorcycle into account providing the highest level of performance.
The system also features advanced rollover protection: in Street ABS mode under extremely hard braking, sensors prevent the bike from flipping forward and throwing the rider over the handlebars.
- Bosch 9.1 MP ABS → maximum braking performance
Offroad ABS mode
Adventure riding is about exploring the unknown and riding long distances, having the motorcycle back you up in those extreme situations is very important. ABS can be switched to Offroad mode. This improves braking control in offroad situations. Control of the bike is ensured when stopping on loose surfaces.
In this mode, ABS is deactivated on the rear wheel, ABS activation on the front wheel is reduced and data from the lean angle sensor is no longer assessed. This allows riders to lock up the rear wheel to steer it into corners. It reduces the tendency of the front wheel ABS to regulate on loose surfaces, thus providing stopping power while offering secure braking in the dirt. The settings have been optimized for the Norden 901 to ensure maximum braking power and minimal intrusion.
Cornering Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC)
Cornering Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC) is Husqvarna Motorcycles’ premium lean-angle sensitive traction control system and provides the highest level of grip. The system monitors the rear wheel speed and reacts immediately if the rotational speed of the rear wheel is disproportionate to the riding situation. Within milliseconds, the MTC reduces engine output with an extremely smooth, barely perceptible intervention at the throttle valves, until the system has reduced slippage to optimum proportions for the selected ride mode and current angle of lean, benefitting from the cutting-edge, six-axis inertial measurement unit (IMU).
The new generation of Cornering MTC uses two additional sensors (a wheel slip and a tilt-angle sensor) for the various movements of the motorcycle. Each sensor has its own function, and data from both are combined to offer a range of traction control settings. Using the data from the tilt-angle sensor, smoother traction is ensured. The main benefit is experienced in straight line acceleration. The power reduction is less abrupt when front wheel lift is detected and thus more constant acceleration can be achieved.
Depending on the selected riding mode, Cornering MTC allows different levels of traction slip at the rear wheel. In the optional Explorer mode, the rider can control the amount of MTC intervention with slip adjust in nine levels. The setting offers a large range of intervention, covering beginners and pro riders alike. At the extreme end it allows for a drifting rear wheel when accelerating out of the corner and lifting the front wheel.
Ambitious and experienced riders can switch off the traction control.
Ride modes
The ride modes allow the rider to adapt the behavior and feeling of the engine. A specific ride mode alters the throttle response, the traction control level and, depending on the mode, the peak power.
The Street mode offers lively and direct throttle response with matching MTC settings for riding on paved surfaces. The MTC is set up to allow minimal slip before it activates. It’s smooth and accessible enough for less experienced riders and traveling with a pillion, yet dynamic enough to speed along twisting mountains and valleys.
The Offroad mode offers smooth throttle response and allows considerable slip before it intervenes. On low grip surfaces, a certain amount of wheel slip is needed to ensure forward motion. Additionally, it allows riders to break traction, so they can steer with the rear wheel. The mode is not lean angle sensitive, so the MTC does not intervene when a rider uses a berm to turn. Furthermore, the anti-wheelie function is not engaged in this mode which allows riders to lift the front wheel over obstacles.
Rain mode has very smooth throttle response, reduced peak power and the traction control intervenes early for maximum control. Perfect for bad weather, challenging road conditions, preserving tires or just riding home at the end of a long journey.
Ultimately, the optional Explorer mode provides direct control over the various functions and reconfigures the displayed information on the dashboard. The feature can be purchased and activated as a software add-on through authorized Husqvarna Motorcycles dealerships.
Motor Slip Regulation (MSR)
The Norden 901 is equipped with Motor Slip Regulation (MSR) which controls engine braking control and works as the inverse of MTC. If, due to downshifting or abrupt throttle closure, the engine drag torque is too high, the ride-by-wire system balances the throttle exactly as much as is needed to ensure controlled deceleration. MSR complements the slipper clutch and is especially effective in low grip situations.
Cruise Control
The Norden 901 is fitted standard with a handlebar-mounted menu switch with additional Cruise Control buttons. This means the desired speed can be easily set and changed individually by the rider.
Optional Connectivity features
The Norden 901 will be Husqvarna Motorcycles first street model compatible with the connectivity platform, Ride Husqvarna Motorcycles. The optional Connectivity Unit enables phone and music functions as well as turn-by-turn navigation and route planning, powered by the dedicated app.
With a paired Bluetooth helmet headset, the music function allows a Ride Husqvarna Motorcycles-equipped Norden 901 to take control of the smartphone’s music player to listen while riding. Using the left handlebar-mounted mode switch, the rider can toggle between tracks on a playlist or music archive and control the volume, with track information displayed on the motorcycle’s TFT dashboard.
With the ease of pairing a smartphone to the motorcycle with Ride Husqvarna Motorcycles, the phone function allows the rider to see the identification of incoming calls on the TFT dashboard and, using the mode switch, accept or decline the call. While it is sometimes important not to miss a call on a long ride, accessing the phone’s address book and making outgoing calls is not possible as a safety measure.
Additionally, the Ride Husqvarna Motorcycles app (available for Android and iOS) provides route planning and turn-by-turn navigation. The visual guidance is transmitted via Bluetooth to the TFT dashboard to show the pre-planned destination. To save on mobile data use, maps can be downloaded for offline use; this also helps to create and save pre-planned routes. To allow for extended exploration off the beaten path and to create truly unique trips, up to 128 waypoints can be added to a route when planning.
Husqvarna Motorcycles Functional Apparel Collection
The Husqvarna Motorcycles Functional Apparel Collection features riding gear produced for the Norden 901 rider, perfectly complementing the outstanding design of the motorcycle. Dress for every adventure in clothing to keep you warm, dry and protected all year around. Every item includes intelligent features for travelers and is made to a premium quality that lasts.
MX-9 ADV MIPS® Helmet
Packed with protective features, the MX-9 ADV MIPS® is a premium adventure helmet designed for all conditions and reprises the colors and graphics of the Norden 901. Effective ventilation and Nutrafog II® anti-fog lens combine for comfort and clear vision. Made exclusively for Husqvarna Motorcycles by Bell, the MX-9 ADV features their proprietary Multi-Directional Impact Protection System (MIPS®), which uses slip plane technology to disperse energy from rotational and angular impacts.
Scalar WP Jacket and Scalar WP Pants
A high-end adventure outfit for riders of a high-end travel motorcycle. The Scalar WP Jacket and Pants are prepared for all conditions, with abrasion and tear-resistant Cordura® polyester rip-stop blend outwards; detachable, breathable, wind and waterproof Hydratex® 3L membranes; and removable thermo linings, with the one from the jacket being wearable separately. There are SEEFLEX™ CE level 2 shoulder and elbow protectors and a back protector insert in the jacket. The pants have SEEFLEX™ CE level 2 knee protectors and SEEFLEX™ CE level 1 hip protectors. Made exclusively for Husqvarna Motorcycles by REV’IT!.
Scalar Gloves
Made to be both breathable and comfortable for the Norden rider, the Scalar Gloves are constructed from 500D premium polyamide fabric and elastic mesh at the back of the hands with leather palms and fingers. There are protective TPR sliders on the balls of the hand and the knuckles. The fingertips are compatible with touch screen use. Made exclusively for Husqvarna Motorcycles by REV’IT!.
Crossfire 3 SRS Boots
For day-long adventure touring you need boots that provide protection, comfort and support. The Crossfire 3 SRS Boots, made exclusively for Husqvarna Motorcycles by SIDI, excel in all these areas. The boots feature an exclusive, patented flex system with hyper extension block; replaceable shin plates; a robust, shock-absorbing and anatomically shaped heel protector; and a micro adjustable and replaceable buckle system.
Husqvarna Motorcycles Technical Accessories
The Norden 901 has been designed to evolve with your riding requirements and ambitions. For added usability the Husqvarna Motorcycles Technical Accessories range tailors the Norden 901 to suit the riding you do, making the motorcycle truly your own. Luggage systems, performance and chassis enhancements and ergonomic solutions let you take the Norden 901 to new horizons.
Akrapovič ‘Slip-on Line’
Add a sportier exhaust note and race look to your Norden 901 with an Akrapovič ‘Slip-on Line’ silencer. Made from high-grade titanium, the ‘Slip-on Line’ silencer offers a substantial weight saving over the standard unit. Simple, direct fitment means that ECU flashing is not required to match the silencer to the motorcycle.
Ergo Rider’s Seat and Ergo Pillion Seat
Add some cold weather comfort with heated seat pads, available for both rider and pillion. A three-stage Kevlar heating element makes for fast heat output and long service life. An easy plug and play solution, the Ergo Rider’s and Pillion Seats also retain the same seat height as the standard pads.
Heated Grip Kit
Warm hands whatever the weather with these Heated Grips. The temperature can be adjusted in four stages via a handlebar-mounted menu switch.
Touratech Cases and Top Case
Made from high-strength anodized aluminum, and with a striking design and durable anodized finish, these robust Touratech Cases are offered in a 31 L capacity pannier for mounting on the right of the motorcycle, 45 L for the left side and 38 L for the topbox. Generous capacity to carry and protect everything a rider might take on the longest and remotest Norden 901 adventures. Silicone seals keep water out of the boxes even in the most persistent downpours. The Touratech Cases and Top Case are easy to mount and simple to carry off the motorcycle. Thanks to high-torsion resistance and a special riveting process, the luggage will stay rigidly mounted to the motorcycle with minimal flex as the rider travels. Wherever the rider chooses to go, and whatever is needed for the journey or the destination, the Touratech Cases and Top Case can carry it in true adventure riding style.
Lowering Kit
Bring the seat height down by a useful 22 mm with this suspension Lowering Kit. Because it was specifically developed for the Norden 901, the bike’s riding dynamics are unaffected.
Sidebag Set and Luggage Bag
The Norden 901 was built to travel to new horizons and this Sidebag Set and Luggage Bag have the capacity to carry everything that is needed for the journey and the destination. Specially designed for the Norden 901, the Sidebag Set and Luggage Bag have welded seams and are extremely light, robust and waterproof. Roll-closure tops make the bags easy to pack and help keep moisture out. High-quality workmanship combines with all-round usability in luggage that is easy to attach, remove and carry. The Sidebag Set and Luggage Bag are designed for distance and looking good on the Norden 901.
Connectivity Unit
The Ride Husqvarna Motorcycles App lets you connect your smartphone to your Norden 901 via Bluetooth. The Connectivity Unit acts as the interface between your phone and the bike. The Ride Husqvarna Motorcycles App gives you full control over incoming calls and playing of audio. Information is shown on the TFT display of your Norden 901 and operation is via the handlebar-mounted menu switch.
Windshield
This higher screen offers improved wind protection and reduced turbulence around the head and neck area, especially for taller riders. It gives neck muscles an easier time and offers more comfort during long journeys.
Have to comment that really prefer the marketing of the Aprilia Tuareg compared to the Norden. To much fluff and not enough of the bike. Sure going in an adventure is interesting, but we want bike specs and videos….not some movie. Aprilia came out with much more exciting videos ripping thru a cow pasture rather than some epic trek. In fact they got me excited the way usually any KTM Chris Birch demo would. I’m sure we’ll see the Norden Adventure R come next year wrapped KTM wheelie promo goodness.
tuareg 660 ftw
edit- aprilia has really serious problems with the 660 platform
that’s a no no for an off road bike
When I first saw this years ago I thought it would make a great replacement for my 1190. Now that I have a 701 (and love it) the thought of wrestling around a bigger bike makes me flaccid.
if what you say is true, imagine how tumescent the thought of a kx 100 makes mick.
Sorry pal. I ride either 295 kitted YZ250s or 300XC KTM.
I never got into the pit bike thing.
I’ve been pushing the 690/701 platform all along. If the 701 ever got a street oriented seat (from the Duke?) and a simple windshield or protective tower along with the 6.6 gallon tank, that would be the best Adventure Bike, hands down. It seems most Adventure Bikes are aiming for 80/20 to 90/10 street to dirt ratio. A 701 Adventure would be a true 50/50 and be so much nicer for mere mortals to take off-road while still having enough power for 100+ mph “touring”.
I agree. If they just took the 701 LR and added two things. Rally tower and cruise control. Both are available aftermarket. Seems like a minor tweak and maybe seat concepts touring saddle. It would be a brand new model which would destroy mid weight adventure bikes.
Actually, I’d consider it an 80/80, suggesting it would be 80% good on road and 80% good off road. Most 80/20 bikes are truly 20% good off road
Polarizing? The ADV segment of motorcycles are all “ funky” looking like a Swiss Army knife. I think it’s a great addition to a over populated motorcycle designation.
The key part for me is a better fairing and more street orientated than the 890. I have a KTM 890 and it’s great but as a 90/10 on road guy a little better fairing is a big plus. I think the soft luggage is wicked cool looking too.
This looks awesome. I like KTMs, but the 890 Adventure is not the best looking bike. This sister (cousin?) bike to the 890 Adventure looks great, though. With a change to 17″ wheels, this would be one awesome city/commuter/supermoto bike.
Husqvarna and/or KTM. Which brand is the Hyundai, which is the Kia?
Deep comparison Tom. KTM and the Korean auto industry really gained traction at about the same time. That’s spooky.
I think KTM is Porsche (solid performance), and Husqvarna is Audi (great-looking design).
I like it, but I wish they would have given it the more edgy style of it’s siblings. I think the Svartpilen and the Vitpilen will be long term classics.
I’ve owned both 790 & 890 Adventure S’s…the 890 was an improvement over the 790 in all ways…fantastic bikes but butt ugly…the 901 has fixed that & I have one coming…really excited
Polarizing styling? Well, the gas tank is non-traditional. The whole rest of the bike is quite PD historical. The tail section is long enough to to keep crud from the back tire off of the rider. The headlight design didn’t involve taking acid and watching old sciance fiction B movies. If I were in the market for something like this, I’d hit it like a northern. It lacks the ridiculousness so prevelant in today’s street bike market.
If I took a swig of beer every time the war and press release mentioned ride by wire throttle, I’d die from alcohol poisoning long before I finished. Perhaps there are a lot of people who really want ride by wire throttles and huge rider aide packages. I’m just not one of them. No throttle cable, no deal. Total non-starter for me. 13.5 to 1 compression has me thinking that you would have to buy your fuel carefully as well. But that’s what you get from an industry that thinks that everybody is focused on power and nobody questions weight. Heavy bikes with lots of power. Rider aides and ride by wire throttles to keep you from accessing all that power.
I have been waiting for the 690/701 Adventure to (re) appear. If Yamaha can sell tons of the Tenere 700, I would think KTM/Husky would do pretty well selling a slightly more powerful, yet 70+ pound lighter version with their excellent, smooth single. Unfortunately, people would mistakenly compare it to a KLR. With a cheap windshield on my Duke and three piece luggage, I now have a 330 lb, 60 mpg, high speed touring bike. Give it some longer suspension and a set of 18/21 tubeless spoked rims and it would be so much more capable than this bike, only giving up speeds over 120 mph – assuming that must be important to people buying these larger, heavy pseudo-dirt bikes.
Jumpin’ jesus on a pogo stick!
Did you cut and paste the entire owner’s manual?
Not sure i’ve ever owned a bike that you could describe that verbosely….
To read this will take my entire week’s computer time ! Too much for European engineering !!!
Twenty words for every part on the bike !
Holy word count! Who’s telling them that this is messaging that ANY demographic responds positively to? Ridiculous.
I’m not reading this. I’ll wait for someone (Dirk) credible to review it and tell me what they think. I’m not taking their (10,000) words for it.
I thought all press releases were excessively wordy these days, but this is stunningly ridiculous. I didn’t read it either.
The copywriter must have been paid per word
And with all that, no mention of crankshaft configuration.
OOF DA!
I have yet to find anything called an Adventure bike with a seat that lets my feet touch the ground. I used to have a BMW 1150 GS standard that I could tiptoe. But when I was power walking it in a traffic jam,… my leg fell off. Fortunately, the people driving behind me picked it up and helped me out. It was then that I decided to get down to earth and buy cruisers. But I always look at adventure bikes and wonder: “maybe if I just chained my leg to my belt I could ride an adventure bike.” Good luck with that.
Finally – beakless off-road motorcycle. It can be done!
This is a meaningful, practical motorcycle right to last detail. Powerful and relatively light with slate of useful features. The selling price is to be expected slightly higher than its KTM companion model in neighborhood of 14 thousands US$.
450 lbs ( plus 40 lbs for gas), 101 hp 74 ft lbs torque (same hp and torque as NT 1100), base price US $13,999
Another good Zombie Apocalypse bike.
Too much complication. For Zombie apocalypse, you want a KLR, which you can maintain and fix for the rest of history with nothing more than a pocket knife.
Did I miss the “weight” in those dozens of pages of verbage…….????
lol that was a LOT to read. I didn’t see it either.
According to website: WEIGHT (WITHOUT FUEL) 204 kg
450 pounds. That’s a lot to lug around in the dirt. Don’t let the advertising photos fool you, that’s a pro rider doing his antics for the camera.
when you add 5 gallons of gas, and the aluminum panniers and trunk filled with gear you are going to be looking at 535-550 pounds
How can this be so close in weight to a BMW GS 1200?
Ha ha are you seriously comparing the Husky’s weight with loaded-up luggage and full tank, to the 1200GS without any luggage and fuel? Add at least another 100 lbs for the GS as well if you want to compare it that way
Google says wet weight of GS 1200 without luggage is 544
Wet weight of this is Husky without luggage is 490
54 pounds diff by my math
Not much diff by my book
The GS 1200 is a huge bike with shaft drive
The 1250GS was 570 lbs when actually weighed: https://ridermagazine.com/2019/03/29/2019-bmw-r-1250-gs-gsa-rt-first-ride-review/
The Husky is 450 lbs empty (admittedly that’s manufacturer’s claim, so we won’t know for sure until someone weighs it). 5 gal of gas weighs 32 lbs, so 482 lbs with full tank, for a difference of almost 90 lbs
MC News reports 2017-2018 R1200GS at 538 pounds or 6 pounds less than what google quoted
https://www.motorcyclenews.com/bike-reviews/bmw/r1200gs/2017/
The 1250 Twin Cam is listed at 571
I would trade the 8 hp for the 54 pounds any day but, you know me. I wonder where they hide that bag of cement on the GS.
according to some it would be in the shaft drive system
When the Norden was announced a couple years ago, Husqvarna talked about “class leading lightness”. I am disappointed as it can’t even match its KTM sibling. I am still waiting for a multi-cylinder adv bike that is actually under/near 400lbs.
Why limit yourself to multi-cylinders? I would think all that would matter from an engine is light weight, powerful, smooth, tractable, efficient, reliable…
Singles are singles. You either want one or you don’t. I like mine. But I would like a twin of about the same size and weight to compliment it.
I was hopeful when the parallel twins started to show up. But unfortunately, the street bike industry is doing nothing but bloating them. Even a huge ADV craze can’t alter the unending cycle of disappointment.
You can get a twin that weighs less than a KLR. But only because the KLR has been bloated twice now.
I just bought a used street bike. The wife wanted me to buy a new one. But I don’t feel that the industry deserves my patronage. I bought my last new street bike in 1994. I bought one every other year before that time.