2022 Husqvarna Norden 901 First Look

Two years after it debuted at EICMA as a concept model, the Husqvarna Norden 901 adventure-tourer is now ready for production, arriving in U.S. dealerships this month with a $13,999 base price.

The 2022 Husqvarna Norden 901 shares much in common with its corporate cousin, the KTM 890 Adventure, including a similar chromium-molybdenum steel frame, steel trellis subframe, saddle-shaped fuel tank design and liquid-cooled 889cc DOHC Parallel-Twin.

Where the Norden differs is its rally-inspired bodywork compared to the KTM’s more dirtbike-inspired styling. The front fairing integrates the circular LED headlight and fog lights while keeping a slim profile for aerodynamic efficiency.

The openings on either side are much larger than on the KTM, redirecting hot air from the radiator while also improving stability at high speeds. The low-slung fuel tank provides some additional protection from cold air, dirt or water spray for the rider’s legs. With a 5.0 gallon capacity, it’s a bit smaller than the 890 Adventure’s 5.3 gallons, but Husqvarna claims it is enough to provide a range of 248 miles.

The two-piece seat is height-adjustable, ranging from 33.6 to 34.4 inches. The shape is narrow towards the front, which should make for an easier reach to the ground. Heated seats are available as an accessory.

Husqvarna claims a peak output of 101 hp at 8000 rpm and 73.8 lb-ft. at 6500 rpm, the same numbers claimed by the 890 Adventure. Husqvarna claims the engine weighs 117.7 pounds (not including oil) and can go 15,000 km (9,320 miles) between service intervals.

A power assist slipper clutch (PASC) helps improve rear wheel stability during hard braking and downshifting while also reducing hand effort and lever vibration. A rally-derived “Easy Shift” quickshifter comes standard, offering seamless up- and downshifts without needing to use the clutch when traversing the six-speed gearbox.

The Norden 901 offers three selectable ride modes, Street, Offroad and Rain, each optimizing throttle response and cornering traction control for different needs. A fourth, “Explorer” mode is available as an optional add-on, offering customizing settings.

The Bosch 9.7 MP Cornering ABS optimizes braking control while accounting for lean angle which comes in handy with street riding, but when hitting the dirt, the Norden 901 offers an Offroad mode that ignores lean angle and deactivates ABS for the rear wheel.

Other electronic features include cruise control, smart phone connectivity and motor slip regulation (MSR) which moderates engine drag torque during downshifts or abrupt throttle closure. A full-color 5″ TFT display provides all the necessary vehicle data and electronic settings.

Husqvarna outfitted the Norden 901 with J.Juan brake components, with dual four-piston radial-mount calipers and 320mm discs up front and a two-piston floating caliper with 260mm disc at the rear. The tubeless wheels come fitted with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires.

With an MSRP of $13,999, the 2022 Husqvarna Norden 901 comes with a $900 premium over the KTM 890 Adventure, but just $200 less than the 890 Adventure R. If you’re looking for a more off-road focused machine with beefier suspension, the Adventure R might be worth the small price difference. But if you prefer the rally-inspired looks, the Norden 901 may be more up your alley.