Vitpilen 701
1
Kellie Buckley14 Dec 2016
NEWS

Husqvarna unleashes 1301 power cruiser

Husky eyes Ducati’s XDiavel with KTM Super Duke-based roadster

Husqvarna will release an additional model based on KTM’s wild 1290 Super Duke as it forges its new roadbike segment for the 2017 model year.

Images have emerged of the Vitpilen roadster, which is powered by KTM’s potent 1301cc V-twin engine. The newcomer is set to join the recently unveiled Vitpilen 401, which is based on KTM’s single-cylinder Duke 390 and the 701 (pictured), which has spawned from the Austrian firm’s 690 Duke.

While the engine and chassis appear almost identical to the KTM-branded nakedbike, clever changes to the subframe, bodywork and ergonomics have resulted in a significantly different looking motorcycle which is part café racer, part power cruiser.

The success of Ducati’s latest XDiavel power cruiser should raise a few hopes within the Husqvarna factory, too. In standard guise, the XDiavel is capable of a claimed 156hp (116kW), while the Super Duke’s donk has a claimed maximum power output of 170hp (127kW).

There’s no word (or spy images) yet whether the firm will release a scrambler-inspired Svartpilen version as it will with both the 401 and 701 versions, but with the likes of BMW’s new R nineT Urban GS breaking cover recently, we’d very surprised if it doesn’t.

Share this article
Written byKellie Buckley
See all articles
Stay up to dateBecome a bikesales member and get the latest news, reviews and advice straight to your inbox.
Subscribe today
Disclaimer
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
Love every move.
Buy it. Sell it.Love it.
®
Download the bikesales app
    AppStoreDownloadGooglePlayDownload
    App Store and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple Inc. Google Play and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google LLC.
    © carsales.com.au Pty Ltd 1999-2026
    In the spirit of reconciliation we acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.