2022 Husqvarna Norden 901 Lives Up to Its Promise

Husqvarna has always been known for the quality of its off-road motorcycles – it makes some darn good chainsaws and lawn tractors, too – but that started to change thanks to bikes like the Svartpilen and Vitpilen. They’ve now taken another big leap forward into the adventure touring market with the 2022 Norden 901.

The Norden 901 was hotly awaited since its debut at the 2019 EICMA show, and finally released to the public this month. At its heart are many of the same parts as its sister bike, the KTM 890 Adventure, including the LC8c DOHC, 889cc parallel-twin which pumps out 105 ponies and 74 lb-ft of torque. It comes with an up and down quickshifter as well.

The styling is reminiscent of older Paris-Dakar bikes with a large round headlight and a softer edged fairing than you will find on a KTM.  With graphics that are much more subtle as well.

Ride reports say it’s fun and easy to ride on the road and off with a good seat, manageable seat height, and respectable ground clearance. The motor is a known quantity which is versatile and plenty powerful.

You get 8.7 inches of travel in front and 8.5 in the rear from the WP Apex suspension. There are three riding modes a fourth available through a dealer option. The Norden 901 comes with cornering ABS which can be switched off when in Offroad mode. The tubeless spoked wheels are 21 inches front and 18 inches rear shod with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires. It weighs about 449 pounds dry.

With five gallons of fuel on board you’re looking at the better part of 250 miles before you need to refill the tank. You can ride those miles with ease thanks to cruise control, ergonomically designed seat, and effective windscreen. You get comfort and good wind protection. Of course, connectivity is provided through the onboard TFT display.

The Norden 901 should be available at your dealer this month.