Husqvarna Norden 901: Engine & Specs Revealed

Unveiling the Heart of the 2022 Husqvarna Norden 901

The adventure motorcycling landscape is constantly evolving, and Husqvarna Motorcycles has made a significant splash with the introduction of its 2022 Norden 901. This machine, first glimpsed as a concept at the EICMA International Motorcycle Show in 2019, has generated considerable excitement. Distinct from Husqvarna's established off-road models, the Norden 901 presents a unique aesthetic, blending futuristic lines with a touch of retro charm. But beyond its striking looks, what truly defines this new contender in the adventure segment is its meticulously engineered powertrain and comprehensive technical package. Let's take a closer look at the specifications that make the Norden 901 a formidable force on both the tarmac and the trail.

The Core: An 889cc Parallel-Twin Powerhouse

At the heart of the 2022 Husqvarna Norden 901 beats an impressive 889cc parallel-twin engine. This powerplant, shared with KTM's mid-weight adventure models, is tuned to deliver a robust 105 horsepower at 8000rpm and a healthy 100Nm of torque at 6500rpm. This ensures ample grunt for tackling challenging terrain, comfortable cruising on highways, and confident overtaking. The engine's design incorporates a balancer shaft, a crucial element in minimising vibrations and enhancing rider comfort during extended journeys. This focus on smooth power delivery is paramount in the adventure touring sector, where long hours in the saddle are the norm.

Chassis and Suspension: Built for Versatility

Complementing the powerful engine is a chassis designed for both strength and agility. The Norden 901 features a chromium-molybdenum steel trellis frame, which ingeniously uses the engine as a stressed member. This construction method, reminiscent of rally racing bikes, contributes to the bike's overall rigidity and lightweight feel. The frame is powder coated for enhanced durability, ready to withstand the rigours of adventure riding.

Suspension duties are handled by WP APEX components, renowned for their performance and adjustability. The front features a WP APEX USD (Upside-Down) fork with 43mm stanchions, offering compression, rebound, and preload adjustability. The rear is equipped with a WP APEX monoshock, also featuring rebound and preload adjustments. This sophisticated suspension setup provides a substantial 220mm of travel at the front and 215mm at the rear, ensuring a plush ride over uneven surfaces and precise control during spirited riding, whether on or off-road. The ability to fine-tune the suspension settings allows riders to optimise the bike for different loads and riding conditions.

Wheels and Tyres: Ready for Any Terrain

Husqvarna has equipped the Norden 901 with tubeless aluminium spoked wheels, a favoured choice for adventure bikes due to their inherent strength and ability to absorb impacts. The wheel sizes are classic adventure dimensions: a 21-inch front and an 18-inch rear. These larger diameters, particularly the 21-inch front, are essential for navigating off-road obstacles, providing better flotation in sand and improved handling over rocks and roots. The bike comes fitted with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tyres, a dual-purpose compound that offers excellent grip on both tarmac and loose surfaces, further enhancing the Norden 901's go-anywhere capability.

Rider Aids and Electronics: Enhancing Safety and Control

The Norden 901 is packed with modern electronic rider aids designed to enhance safety, control, and rider confidence. The braking system benefits from Bosch 9.1 ME Cornering ABS, which is lean-angle sensitive. This means the ABS can intervene even when the bike is cornering, preventing wheel lock-up and maintaining stability. Crucially, the ABS can be switched off, and it features an 'Offroad' mode, allowing for controlled slides and more aggressive braking on unpaved surfaces. This switchability is vital for riders who intend to explore off the beaten path.

Traction control is managed by Husqvarna's lean-angle sensitive 'Cornering Motorcycle Traction Control' (MTC). The MTC offers three modes as standard (Street, Rain, Offroad) and an optional 'Explorer' mode. The Explorer mode is particularly noteworthy, as it allows for nine levels of adjustable rear-wheel slip, giving experienced riders the freedom to tailor the bike's behaviour to their preference and the specific riding conditions. This level of customisation is a significant advantage for off-road enthusiasts.

Further enhancing the riding experience are features like the 'Easy Shift' function, which enables clutchless upshifts and downshifts through the six-speed gearbox, and the 'Power Assist Slipper Clutch' (PASC). The slipper clutch helps prevent rear-wheel hop and chatter during aggressive downshifts or when decelerating rapidly, improving stability and control.

Comfort and Practicality: Designed for the Long Haul

Husqvarna has paid close attention to rider comfort and practicality. The height-adjustable, two-piece seat allows riders to fine-tune their seating position for optimal comfort, with a 20mm adjustment range. This feature is particularly useful for riders of different heights or for adapting the bike for varying riding styles. The bike boasts an impressive 252mm of ground clearance, providing ample room to manoeuvre over obstacles and protecting the undercarriage.

A substantial 19-litre fuel tank provides an extended range, with Husqvarna claiming an impressive 400km on a full tank. This generous fuel capacity significantly reduces the need for frequent refuelling, making the Norden 901 ideal for long-distance touring and remote exploration. Riders can keep track of all essential information via the 5-inch TFT digital dashboard, which offers clear and concise readouts.

For those seeking enhanced connectivity, an optional Connectivity Unit can be integrated, providing turn-by-turn navigation, phone call alerts, and music selection directly from a smartphone. This integration of technology further elevates the Norden 901's touring credentials.

A Balanced Contender in the Mid-Weight Adventure Market

Weighing in at a claimed 204kg without fuel, the Norden 901 positions itself competitively within the mid-weight adventure bike segment. It offers a compelling blend of performance, technology, and off-road capability, aiming to appeal to riders who demand versatility from their motorcycles. The combination of a strong parallel-twin engine, robust WP suspension, advanced electronics, and practical features makes the 2022 Husqvarna Norden 901 a truly exciting proposition for any adventure rider.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the engine capacity of the Husqvarna Norden 901?
The Husqvarna Norden 901 is powered by an 889cc parallel-twin engine.

Q2: What are the power and torque figures for the Norden 901 engine?
The engine produces 105hp (77kW) at 8000rpm and 100Nm of torque at 6500rpm.

Q3: What type of suspension does the Norden 901 use?
It features WP APEX suspension, with an USD fork at the front and a monoshock at the rear, both offering adjustable settings.

Q4: What wheel sizes are fitted to the Norden 901?
The bike is equipped with 21-inch front and 18-inch rear tubeless aluminium spoked wheels.

Q5: Does the Norden 901 have electronic rider aids?
Yes, it features lean-angle sensitive Cornering ABS and Cornering Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC), with multiple ride modes.

Q6: What is the fuel tank capacity and estimated range?
The fuel tank has a capacity of 19 litres, offering an estimated range of up to 400km.

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