Favourite Motorcycles 2024 – Husqvarna Vitpilen 401

For 2024 the Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 still remains on my list of favourite motorcycles. My last encounter with the 401 was memorable due to it’s features, build quality and just simple physical presence at the showroom and on the road. However there has been changes and it’s not quite as highly rated as the model which I recommended in 2022. 

I am just referring to the updated styling and they entails rather than the updated engine, frame and other mechanical changes made to the 401 for the 2024 model. It maybe due to the changes that have technically made the Vitpilen 401 a better motorcycle but reduced it’s design appeal that caused me to like it less.  

The 2024 Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 technical upgrades include a slightly larger engine displacement, requisite changes to the airbox, cams, cam covers, fuel injection, slipper clutch, quick shift, new frame, more modes and larger display, lights and the list goes on. I think this is a pretty substantial update and the same as the KTM 390 Duke which it is based on. Regardless the Vitpilen 401 is still LAMs or learner permit suitable so bonus points. 

The physical looks was what drew attention to this motorcycle in the first place. It was like seeing the Honda CB400, the proportions and build just make it such a good looking motorcycle. The 2021 Vitapilen 401 was in the similar vein until this update. It just looks a little odd compared to the original. 

Is the Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 still worth buying? Yes but not as much as the original design package from 2021. Is that the price of progress and was the original Vitpilen such a flawed model that made all these changes absolutely essential?