The 2024 Husqvarna Svartpilen 801 is a unique take on the mid-size naked | MCN Review

#husqvarna #svartpilen801 #nakedbike
Chief Road Tester Michael Neeves gets to grips with the 2024 Husqvarna Svartpilen 801. How does it stack up against its KTM 790 Duke sibling? Find out here: www.motorcyclenews.com/bike-r...
*INSURANCE QUOTE: 2024 Husqvarna Svartpilen 801, valued at £10,499.
Based on a 56-year-old male engineer, married, licence held for 9 years, 8 years NCB, no claims or convictions, for social, domestic and pleasure use. Bike has a tracker fitted and is garaged with postcode WA13 0DT and annual mileage of 5000 miles.
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[@motorcyclenewsdotcom]

Would you take one of these over a KTM 790 Duke? Tell us below 👇

[@wutzzz138]

Ktm is KTM

[@Rainan-hi8ds]

It’s better looking, but has the same problems! Ktm don’t care the big problem of the camshaft of the lc8 motor! That problem exists for many years!

[@monsterboomer8051]

For some reason I feel that 401 Svartpilen looks better.

[@abymathew295]

They should have put the 890 Motor in it...😢😢

[@ONEly-uc4et]

Yep any day over the 790

[@billthebutcher5784]

Weekly reminder that Neevesy is the best presenter to ever do it.

[@iansmith237]

I owned a 2018 Vitpilen 701 for a while and absolutely loved it. Definitely a manic, wild ride but I think that's just the nature of a featherweight big single with 75bhp. I'm honestly a little disappointed that they went for a more sedate sounding ride but I bet this one will be far more successful than the 701 models were. In the end I'm glad I went with the 765 RS instead.

[@nockianlifter661]

Couldn’t get comfortable with my Vitpilen 701 traded it for a Tuono 660 factory which is much better for me and I can see why you went for a 765 which is another good choice.

[@jakedickinson]

Let’s hope they’ve sorted the camshaft issues……..

[@subzero-ku2wx]

If they have, they haven't told anybody...

[@ehiggins7476]

They did

[@urbanstrencan]

I hope I made good decision ordering one 2 weeks away ❤❤❤❤. Can't wait. Love the looks of it

[@MadChalet]

The Speed Triple is cheaper? I'd have a walk over to the Triumph shop if I were buying. The Street is an awesome bike.

[@NabGer]

Just put a round headlight on it

[@MadChalet]

@@NabGer You mean double round, no? ;-) I'm into the 'bug eyes' myself - what a great bike!

[@ZabDevin]

@@MadChaletluv those lights!

[@Justen1980]

@@MadChalet they need to re-make the cheaper simpler 2005-2010 speed triple and just call it a Trident 1150 or whatever. The current Speed Triple has gone the expensive hyper performance route.

[@mikecomikechannel]

Small correction. Svartpilen 701 originally had a 12 l tank, but it was problematic and there was a recall action on it. It has been replaced by a smaller tank, a 9 litre, which has a thicker wall. Well, I ran out of gas a few times on the circuit and still didn't fill up the 9 litres. I think 8.5 max. I normally fill up around 7 litres on the road in traffic. Very sad.

[@Steve-motorcycles]

I wonder if it suffers from as many oil or coolant leaks or premature camshaft failures as KTM 790 or 890

[@bazitube390]

100% why wouldn't it? its the same engine

[@obeii1805]

@@bazitube390😢

[@yohanyonsson]

If you want to compare it to the 790, then mention the differences. Built in Austria, better spec 990 suspension, better tech, better dash. Those things cost, especially the Austria assembly. If we are talking EU, then the 801 also has the 105hp engine, not the 95hp L engine.

[@_chisquare_]

While the early 790 engines were built in Austria, later on production of this engine went to China. The 801's engine is made in China, too.

[@hommemane]

Love the review, short, yet complete, simple and true. Great job as usual 👍👍👍

[@sergiobarbati6615]

After watching the Svartpilen 701 review from MCN a few years ago. I went and bought one which I still have. Neevesy rated it as one of of top 5 fun bikes at the time and he was 100% correct. Unfortunately I don't think this new Svart has the same edge as the 701s. In my opinion Husqvarna played too safe on the design. I really hope they release the Nuda 900 and hopefully they will be a bit bolder on the design.

[@noahwail2444]

How nice, finaly the weight is delivered as I think it should; All liquids, but petrol/gas. It evens the playingfields between a bike with a very big tank, and one with a small one.

[@subzero-ku2wx]

Neevesy, the problem with using the 890 and 890 R reviews as evidence KTM is turning the corner is that the bikes haven't had enough miles ridden on them. The camshafts are wearing prematurely and insidiously. Sadly, it won't be long until you start hearing more about continued LC8c premature wear and outright failures.

[@kiwiandyt123]

So, a KTM for grownups then 😉. Great review from the best in the business.

[@p-dub7422]

I have the 701 and really enjoy the bike and it is a good bike. I was hoping that the 801 would look similar to the 701 but maybe a V twin or something else. The 701 looks like art to me and it is a infusion and synthesis of pass, present and future in one bike. This bike look ordinary but I will check it out when it arrives at the dealer in the U. S. Thanks

[@cocky_potato]

Husky should get hold of the KTM 890 SMT (cracking motorcycle) and make it a NUDA... 🔥

[@JMyers6T4]

Yes - a 17 inch wheeled Norden... I can imagine the SMT is an amazing tool but I sit much more on Husky side of the fence when it coms to looks.

[@JMyers6T4]

I also semi wish for a higher spec road-focused Vitpilen version of this with Brembo brakes, a 901 (or even 1001) engine and sportier/stiffer suspension and tyres. Wishing but also thinking it will happen.

[@TierOperator]

Im curious how this, 790 Duke and the CFMOTO NK 800 compare. They all share the same engine

[@mostlyjovial6177]

It’s practically the same with progressively more premium feeling components if I had to guess. The engine likely feels the same, I’m sure it’s just how much premium are you willing to pay for better equipment.

[@laynetravis]

Loved the younger brother so this is great!

[@scuddy100HYA]

Hi Neevsy.. Great content as usual! You're definitely the numero uno bike journalist/tester in my opinion🤟how are you liking the Alpinestars smx air jacket that you were wearing? Many thanks Lee

[@stiggy186]

That exposed subframe design is spectacular. Big fan of this thing. Wish I lived somewhere with roads that made naked bikes a sensible choice.

[@geoffball9547]

Great review! Riden the KTM 790 and it was much fun but I don't like the transformer look or styling. The 801 looks great and with a longer wheelbase and smoother throttle response all of that would make it a easy winner! I chose a Kawi 650RS over the 790 but today 801 would get the nod.

[@krazed0451]

2:52 - The tank size might have gone up a couple of litres, but the engine size has increased and gained a cylinder... Does it actually increase range?

[@SlackBallSack]

cornering ABS too if i'm not mistaken

[@natural9743]

If Neevesy recommends it then im all in

[@creedm3040]

Awesome video! Yea, that is a beautiful bike for sure. Well presented as far as features and benefits. What does Svartpilen mean anyway? Does anyone know? I always hear about the reliability of KTM's . I had a 2018 KTM 1090 sa and absolutely no issues. I do miss that bike, that engine was phenomenal . Best!

[@creedm3040]

White arrow, I googled it! 😊

[@leifiseland1218]

​@@creedm3040 you googled wrong! Svartpilen means the Black arrow. Vitpilen means the White arrow..🧐

[@creedm3040]

@@leifiseland1218 I stand corrected! Good play . Thank you! Best!

[@jeremieyirmeyahu3468]

Wow each time a watch a video about this bike somebody put on the table the camshaft issues or the oil/coolant leakage of the Lc8c engine.....is this that bad ??

[@nubslayer123123]

I have a 2018 790 Duke and have had absolutely no issues so far. Hopefully it stays that way because it's an incredible machine

[@johnDukemaster]

Good question! There are so many keyboard warriors, so I digged a bit on the issue. And as far as I can see, there's about 30-35 bikes worldwide that had camshaft problems. That is not much. And now I know someone will comment that "wait till more bikes reaches higher miles, then you'll see" The coolant problem is an easy fix. It's the hoseclamp at the engine that needs tighten up a bit. Oil leeks is a new gasket. All of these issues are carried out on warranty. And the camshafts? As far as I can tell, even bikes beyond warranty time is fixed by KTM. (if they have the service done at the dealer) For you who does the service themselfes, remember to clean the oil-jet/nozzle on the right -hand side of the head. Don't listen to the fearmongers, buy one and be happy!

[@nockianlifter661]

I’ve owned 2 LC8 engined bikes. The original super Moto 950 and the 990 SMT and never had any issues despite thinking it would grenade at the slightest opportunity. Did several long tours, never let me down. I wonder if that’s down to oil changes and oil choice ? The 990 would burn its oil, so I used a 10/60 synthetic which didn’t smell burned.

[@timhaslum7461]

Great looking bike.

[@williamstinson6137]

Neevesy, simply put, the best

[@dylanhedges5634]

It looks 1million times better than any KTM Duke Make it a 990, build it in Europe not China (790) already and I'd want one

[@hallmountfilms]

I'll just keep my Nuda 900R thank you :)

[@lophophorawilliamsii9740]

Where is this bike made? Austria or China?

[@rafaellastracom6411]

She´s a looker for sure. Unique is the adjective.

[@LSW262]

Nice bike.... but for the same kinda money I'd rather buy the new Yamaha MT09

[@mostlyjovial6177]

Ya. That’s been my issue. It’s a nice bike for sure, but when Yamaha comes out with the mt09 sp for practically the same cost (because you will want the extra pack for the 801) it’s really just no competition. Quite a shame. I was hoping for something more reasonably priced. Just not the best option for its price point.

[@kishenjacob1113]

It sounds mellow

[@user-sw2lv3zp6o]

I much prefer the 701 single.

[@cliveomahoney4096]

Excellent vid, thanks. To summarise, it's an £11k, midrange bike, with a Chinese engine, from a Co. with a dubious, to be flattering, reliability record. No thanks. They've tried so hard not to make a 790 Duke, they've lost the plot, imo. Safe riding

[@gunarslodzins]

I prefer the looks of Husky over KTM for sure.

[@hatefeulblast]

Ok, Mr. Neevsey confirm it as fine and fun. So for us its gonna be wonderful.

[@quasimodo8215]

Yes please but not with KTM quality issues...

[@lukaszg74]

Give me new mt09 over this any day of the week

[@rolan2dr]

Don’t hold your breath on the reliability.

[@StarsAutoSport]

👏

[@alexerioeduardo2844]

It leaves me a little bit cold.

[@samjanko8946]

Now, the only thing we need from Husky is a 1300cc version of 'dat💯

[@kenjikenjikenj]

Has KTM resolved their cold start issues yet? I feel they could resolve it easily through a high idle when cold starting similar to every single other bike

[@pamdemic7848]

CF Moto with Husky badges?

[@krancan25]

Funny that you mention the reliability but point to 890 dukes.. You should have compared it to the 790 dukes and the wonderful camshafts that that get erased like a rubber at 15k km... It's dishonest and puts the MCN in the bad light as well.

[@TheLightningII]

That issue is present in all LC8c engines, 790 or 890. According to several dealers the 2023+ models have had the cam material/hardening process revised to prevent this issue, but no one can confirm that until people start checking the cams either when the valve cover gasket starts leaking or they reach the valve check/adjustment interval at 30,00km.

[@krancan25]

Thanks for the info.@@TheLightningII

[@jeremieyirmeyahu3468]

​@@TheLightningIIsomeone think that metal wearing of the gearbox/engine (due to the quickshifter use ???) clot the lubrificating system of the cam which leads to the failure. Eard about the new diamond like coating of the cam but not sure it will solve this problem. Btw everyone say that is à common problem like every single 790/890 is suffering from it ?

[@TheLightningII]

@@jeremieyirmeyahu3468 No one outside of KTM actually knows the root cause but my best guess is that it has nothing to do with oil or contamination but instead it's the same as the issue that plagued some BMW R1200GS models; The DLC on the cam followers breaks away from the follower surface too easily and that starts the wear of the cam. That combined with improper heat treatment on some cam lobes leads to extremely premature wear.

[@brucerossonthetube]

12 months until it is replaced by a 901 version.

[@marceloibarra5198]

Nice 🔥

[@mungo75]

Anyone else getting Nuda vibes? 😁

[@bikemodos]

Popping this problematic LC8c engine into all these different bikes is wild

[@subzero-ku2wx]

I KNOW 😭😭😭😭

[@kenm1533]

Buyer Beware. I have owned a new Svartpilen 401 for almost two years now. I have spend the past six months waiting for a replacement for a defective radiator fan. My efforts to reach out to KTM, including corporate, did not help. Not even a response, explanation, apology, or effort to expedite the part. I have waited previously for a month for an oil filter to become available. I'm going on 10 months to a year waiting for other less critical parts. I was eagerly wanting to place an order for the new 801. Now I'll be afraid to take the bike more than 30 minutes from home when and if it's finally repaired. When I did research on the 401 none of the reviewers mentioned the reliability and parts availability problems. I wish I had been warned. I think this is a systemic problem at KTM that they have somehow kept relatively quiet and instead flooded social media with positive videos about new bikes.

[@shershot]

Wish they make a vitpilen edition

[@jb5music]

Wheelbase is too long...

[@z33tanner]

75 degree crank? Arent KTM's twins a 285 degree crank?

[@yohanyonsson]

And 75+285= 360*. 😉 - It means the same

[@yohanyonsson]

75+285= 360*. - It’s the same thing. Just different ways of saying it.

[@yumyumbaboon]

Looks like this bike has a bit of an identity problem and sounds like less fun than the previous 701 so think I'll pass!

[@TheLightningII]

I don't know how you can say this bike is less fun or exciting than the KTMs when it is literally a 790 Duke with 990 suspension and electronics. Perhaps your brain is telling you it isn't as crazy because it isn't painted bright orange? Also why do these reviews never have good sound clips of the exhaust?

[@neevesybikes]

It’s slightly different and mellower thanks to the calmer chassis geometry 👍

[@TheLightningII]

@@neevesybikes It's literally the same as the 790. Same frame, despite the claim otherwise. They only claim it's a different frame because it has different mounting points for the body work. Same swingarm just slightly higher in the rear while unloaded. So the 801 actually has a slightly more aggressive steering head angle than the 790(not that it should make any real difference with a rider onboard). The only thing different chassis wise from the 790 or 990 is the lower spring rates.

[@neevesybikes]

@@TheLightningII I’ll take your word for it, but the Husky engineers said it’s a different frame at the launch. Either way the steering is slower so feels much calmer…

[@yohanyonsson]

@@neevesybikesHigher bars = slower incline. I highly doubt there’s anything else that’s different.

[@maximborodyuk3773]

@@TheLightningII seating positon on svartpilen's and duke's is different.

[@tomsung2956]

Such a shame it’s in black

[@vaughanboyce3702]

The 790 is notorious for poor reliability...

[@johnDukemaster]

No it is not. It is notorious for having that reputation spread by keyboard warriors.

[@thecornishbiker9323]

Needs the 990 engine too

[@joeblow5037]

Is it a Chinese engine?

[@TheLightningII]

At minimum the the block is made in China. It's known that several components are made in India. Not sure if the engine is assembled in China or Austria. Shouldn't make a difference anyway. The factory is China is overseen by KTM engineers.

[@splodge5714]

A Chinese 790 twin for £10,500!! I'll take my money elsewhere.

[@bangkokbill4035]

Hoosse-kvar-nar. Svart peel-en. Sorry to be a pedant!

[@ZANGI3F]

potato, potato

[@bobbydemosthenis3385]

Xsr900 eats it alive

[@trroland1248]

Is it made in China by CF Moto? 😒

[@stesrad]

Not convinced on reliability... Is the 790 Chinese engine ?... Is the 890 Chinese engine ?.. so is there a realistic comparison... If it's Chinese I'm out !

[@bradsmede]

The CFMoto Chinese built LC8c hasn't had the cam problems the Austrian one has so seems they're doing something right

[@stesrad]

@@bradsmede Yes probably so but I was told of warranty issues with crank related parts... Most probably a metallurgy issue. Being an engineer I have worked with Chinese steel and let's just say it can be interesting ! On principle I don't agree with this outsourcing practice as it can cause quality concerns.

[@williamclarke2020]

One question...is it built in China?

[@TheLightningII]

The engine block is. The 801 is assembled in Austria.

[@williamclarke2020]

@@TheLightningII What's your opinion of the 801? Cheers

[@splodge5714]

A Chinese 790 twin. No thanks.

[@paulred158]

I had been hoping for a new Nuda, this although very attractive in its own way is not it, glad I spent my money on a gen 1 tuono ‘racing’ instead

[@z33tanner]

10k for a CFMOTO with Husky badges, dont support KTM's involvement with China.

[@ehiggins7476]

Help us do it. Don’t buy anymore electronics for the rest of your life. Only buy Iphones, Androids, Google, phones, tablets ,laptops, PC’s, audio equipment, cameras, made in USA or Europe. I’m sure we can accomplish what you want.

[@TheLightningII]

The 790 was designed and originally built in Austria before assembly was moved to China for the 790 Duke and 790 Adventure only. This bike will be built in Austria. The engine block and maybe some other small components are made in China, that's it.

[@natural9743]

KTM has quality control in china