For a while now, major motorcycle manufacturers in the mass market have typically shared one common practice: when investing in research and development for a new engine, it's expected that the engine will be used in multiple models. This strategy makes sense from a logical standpoint.
When Husqvarna finally introduced the Norden 901 to the public as a 2022 model, the motorcycle community collectively breathed a sigh of relief. By that time, it was not a matter of if, but rather when.
Speculations, spy photos, and rumors had been circulating for years leading up to the release of the Norden. While rumors are common, they usually fade away if there is no substance to support them. This was not the case with the Norden.
Interestingly, the Norden remains the only 901 model in the Husqvarna lineup as of February 2024. Despite sharing an engine with some KTM 890 models under the Pierer umbrella, it is surprising that no other 901 models have been introduced yet. Spy photos of multiple 901 models being tested have been circulating since 2019, almost five years ago.
It seems that Husqvarna is aware of this, as they recently released a teaser for an upcoming video set to be unveiled on March 5, 2023. The teaser, posted on Husqvarna's Instagram and Facebook accounts, showcases a new 901 model designed for ice racing.
The teaser provides close-up shots of studded tires gripping the ice, accompanied by the sound of the studs biting into the ice. While the engine sound is present at times, the video serves as a mere teaser, offering limited information. However, a few key stills have been extracted to provide a glimpse of what to expect.
Comparing the teaser shots to the recently updated 2024 Svartpilen and Vitpilen models, it appears to resemble the Svartpilen. However, the high-mount exhaust is a noticeable change. If this teaser is indeed for a production model, it is unlikely to come with studded tires as standard, suggesting they may be a racing modification.
Members of the RA team shared their observations on the teaser. Executive Editor Jonathon Klein suggested it resembles a Vitpilen due to its shape and aggressiveness, while Associate Editor Robbie Bacon leaned towards it being a Svartpilen.
As the discussion continued, the possibility of both a Vitpilen and Svartpilen being introduced was raised. Readers are encouraged to share their thoughts on the upcoming 'Pilen model and speculate on which variant is being teased in the comments section.
