The Launch of the Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 in India Is Expected to Take Place around January 21

Husqvarna has communicated to its dealers about an upcoming launch scheduled for January 21. The highly anticipated model for this event is likely to be the next-generation Svartpilen 401, which underwent multiple testing sessions in India last year, complete with India-specific components like a saree guard.

According to sources within dealerships, the recent introduction of new models in the 400-450cc segment has spurred Bajaj to expand the Husqvarna lineup in India, offering products in this particular price and displacement range.

The upcoming Svartpilen 401, built on the new KTM 390 Duke platform, is expected to feature the larger 399cc engine, potentially delivering around 45hp. The chassis package is anticipated to be carried over from the KTM, incorporating a new trellis frame and an offset monoshock. This design should contribute to a lower seat height and increased ground clearance, similar to what has been observed on the Duke.

Analyzing pricing expectations, a comparison can be drawn with the 250cc Husqvarnas and the corresponding KTM 250 Duke. Presently, the Svartpilen 250 and Vitpilen 250 are both priced at Rs 2.25 lakh, notably lower than the Rs 2.39 lakh KTM 250 Duke. However, it’s important to note that the Husqvarnas are based on the previous-generation 250cc platform, while the KTM Duke has transitioned to the next generation.

Considering this, there might be a smaller price difference between the KTM 390 Duke and the upcoming Svartpilen 401. Nevertheless, the Husqvarna is expected to offer a more competitive price point, with a potential arrival close to the Rs 3 lakh mark, as compared to the current Rs 3.11 lakh price tag for the Duke in Delhi.

Alternatively, although less likely, there is speculation that Husqvarna might update the existing Svartpilen and/or Vitpilen 250 models in India to align them with the new 250 Duke platform. This theoretical update could include features such as an offset monoshock and the new chassis package. The engine, in this scenario, would be the latest 250cc motor from the new 250 Duke, showcasing a distinct character despite sharing many dimensions and figures with the older engine on paper.