Swedish motorcycle manufacturer, Husqvarna will sell its products in the Indian market from next year. It has collaborated with Bajaj Auto for manufacturing of its small capacity motorcycles at Bajaj’s Chakan plant. The motorcycles will be sold through Bajaj Pro-Biking outlets, similar to the Kawasaki and KTM outlets. Although the production of the motorcycles will start from the first half of 2017, the initial motorcycles will be exported to the international market.
The initial bikes coming to India would be the 401 Vitpilen or the 401 Svartpilen. They would be positioned at a slightly higher premium than the KTM 390 Duke. The 401 Vitpilen and the 401 Svartpilen were showcased at the 2016 EICMA motorcycle show. The 401 Vitpilen is a Cafe-racer while the 401 Svartpilen is a Scrambler. Both bikes use high-quality components and have a futuristic minimalist styling. Both bikes use the KTM frame and is powered by the KTM’s 373cc motor which makes 44PS and 35Nm fed through a six speed gearbox. Suspension bits are the same WP components while brakes are the 320mm front and 230mm rear disc clamped by Bybre calipers. ABS and slipper clutch should be standard fitment. The minimalist styling means the kerb weight could be less than the KTM 390 Duke’s 154 kilos.
Husqvarna is a well known brand globally for its dirt bikes and aggressive styled nakeds. It however remains to be seen how well the Indian audience accepts the brand here.
Source: Bikedekho.com
