2024 Husqvarna Norden 901 / Norden 901 Expedition

Husqvarna jumped right into the fray when it brought out its Norden 901 in 2022. The machine is based on the same platform as KTM’s 890 Adventure models. And while mechanically the two brands’ middleweight adventure models are almost identical, Husqvarna took a different direction with the styling, replacing the knife-edge angles of the KTM with smooth, modern lines that spark memories of classic Paris-Dakar bikes of the ‘80s and ‘90s. The look is entirely Husqvarna; a round LED headlight sits high above the front wheel, flanked by integrated fog lights and a steeply angled windscreen.

The power unit in the Norden 901 is identical to KTM’s 889cc LC8c parallel twin that powers KTM’s 890 Adventure and 890 Adventure R. The liquid-cooled DOHC eight-valve engine produces a claimed 105 hp at 8,000 rpm and 74 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 6,500 rpm.

Like the engine, the chassis is very similar to its orange cousins. The frame is a chromoly-steel unit that utilizes the engine as a stressed member. Rake is set at 25.8 degrees, with 4.2 inches of trail. Out back is a die-cast aluminum swingarm that utilizes a linkless PDS shock. A spoked 21-by-2.5-inch front and 18-by-4.5-inch rear wheel with tubeless design are mounted with 90/90-21 front and 150/70-18 rear tires. The standard Norden uses a WP Apex fork and shock while the Expedition version uses much more stout Xplor units.

The mechanical details of the braking system include J.Juan (a Brembo sub-brand) radial-mount four-piston calipers up front with 320mm discs, while a twin-piston caliper and 260mm disc reside out back. The bike has lean-sensitive ABS thanks to its six-axis IMU.

As with any adventure model, the Norden 901 comes with a suite of electronic rider aids. The base Norden has three modes including Street, Rain, and Offroad, while the customizable Explorer mode is optional (standard on the Expedition model). The Norden has provisions for traction control, throttle response, peak-power output, engine-braking, wheelie control, and ABS settings.

The 2024 Norden 901 starts at $14,899. The $16,499 Norden 901 Expedition comes with a whole host of upgrades including Xplor suspension, upgraded electronics package, a burly skid plate, as well as touring amenities like a more protective windscreen, centerstand, and luggage as standard.