Ups
- Upgraded with higher-spec Xplor suspension
- A comprehensive directory of standardised apparatus.
- What are the key areas where minimal value improvements can have a significant impact on overall performance?
Downs
- Included baggage not very sturdy
- Windscreen mounted and never adjustable
- To mount bags securely and efficiently in various scenarios, separate attachments are required.
Verdict
With so many options available in the adventure-bike category, choosing the right one can be truly daunting. While mid-range engines with multiple cylinders strike an ideal balance between power and lightness, rendering them particularly captivating options. The Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition is a premium iteration of its predecessor, designed specifically for adventurous riders seeking a reliable companion for extended excursions.
Overview
The Husqvarna Norden 901 takes to the open road, its distinct design a testament to the company’s close connection with sister brand KTM, whose 890 Adventure models serve as the foundation for the Norden’s architecture. While the Norden 901 shares its engine and chassis with KTMs, Husqvarna has taken a distinct approach to styling, swapping the sharp angles found on KTMs for more relaxed, fashionable lines that evoke memories of classic Paris-Dakar bikes from the ’80s and ’90s. With its unmistakable Husqvarna aesthetic, the motorcycle boasts a prominent spherical LED headlight positioned high above the front wheel, accompanied by integrated fog lamps and a sharply raked windscreen.
Husqvarna aimed to create a refined character for the Norden, designing the bike to be less aggressive and more suitable for everyday adventurers. Introducing the Expedition model, Husqvarna built upon the Norden 901’s success by preserving its best qualities and amplifying its appeal with adventure-focused enhancements.
While the Expedition shares some similarities with the Norden 901 in terms of its componentry. The Adventure 890 R features the same robust Xplor suspension found on KTM’s 890 R, coupled with a rugged skid plate for added protection. It also boasts touring amenities such as an additional protective windscreen, centre stand, and luggage as standard.
Updates for 2023
The Norden 901 Expedition marks its debut in 2023 as an entirely new model, drawing heavily from the standard Norden 901, which entered the market in 2022 without undergoing any significant revisions since its launch.
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This significant milestone marks a seamless transition to WP Xplor suspension, effectively elevating performance and capability. The Comfort and Consolation Package features a range of upgrades, including heated handgrips and rider seat, as well as enhancements like a taller windshield, centerstand, soft luggage capacity, and an optional Connectivity Unit that enables seamless Bluetooth connectivity between your smartphone and the motorcycle. Enhanced protection originates from a robust, high-strength aluminum skid plate designed to withstand harsh conditions.
Pricing and Variants
The Norden 901 Expedition starts at a reasonable $15,799, representing a moderate price bump from its predecessor, the Norden 901, which had a starting MSRP of $14,499. The bike is available in a single colour option.
Competitors
As the middleweight ADV segment matures in terms of reputation, manufacturers have responded by offering diverse solutions to the same challenge, resulting in a multitude of options across a broad range of possibilities.
The Yamaha Ténéré 700 ($10,499) joins forces with the KTM 890 Journey ($13,949), BMW F 850 GS ($12,595), and the renowned Husqvarna Norden 901 ($14,499) in this esteemed household.
Here are the improved text: Ducati’s DesertX at $17,695 presents a commendable challenge with significant off-road capabilities, in contrast, Triumph offers a range of Tiger 900 options priced between $14,995 and $17,395.
The KTM 890 Adventure R and BMW F 850 GS Adventure models epitomize the essence of aggressive off-road travel with a starting price of $15,199 for the former and $13,595 for the latter.
Listed MSRP serves as the starting point for pricing, with values subject to change based on various options.
Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Efficiency
The Expedition’s ability unit is identical in every respect to its counterpart at the Norden base. The engine is an identical 889cc LC8c parallel twin, also powering KTM’s 890 Adventure and 890 Adventure R. The liquid-cooled DOHC eight-valve engine generates a claimed 105 horsepower at 8,000 rpm and 74 pound-feet of torque. with a peak torque of 1,400 Nm at 6,500 rpm.
The final KTM 890 Adventure R we tested on Cycle World The dyno produced 86.5 horsepower at 8,320 revolutions per minute (RPM) and 58.1 pounds-force-feet. producing a whopping 123 lb·ft of torque at 6,870 rpm on the rear wheel? Services should be performed every 9,500 miles.
Blake Conner, Editor-at-Large at Giant, declared: “The LC8c engine, shared by both the orange bikes and the Norden 901, is unequivocally a superior adventure-bike powerplant,” he asserted in his comprehensive review of the expedition-ready motorcycle. The key to success lies in striking a perfect balance between performance on paved roads and capabilities when venturing off the beaten path. What adventures await at this fascinating destination! I look forward to exploring the captivating landscapes, immersing myself in the local culture, and indulging in delectable cuisine. The allure of this enchanting place beckons me to create unforgettable memories and stories to share with others. Will I discover hidden gems, marvel at breathtaking vistas, or uncover the secrets of a bygone era? As you accelerate on the highway, the Norden’s potent engine makes it feel surprisingly sporty and swift, its power effortlessly surging forward as you shift into second gear and take off with reckless abandon. By quickly executing a gear change – typically dropping from sixth to fifth or even fourth gear – the motorcycle is coaxed into its natural rhythm, enabling a more spirited acceleration ahead.
While the LC8c’s off-road capabilities are undeniable, even surpassing those of some larger engines, it still manages to deliver without leaving you craving more. In today’s era of advanced electronics, maximizing engine performance simply requires finding the sweet spot of throttle input that suits your driving style. The versatility of this bike makes it an outstanding choice for a broad range of cyclists. Experienced riders will likely revel in unleashing the bike’s full potential through aggressive throttle inputs, unimpeded by electronic intervention, while less skilled riders may find solace in a more conservative approach and increased traction control.
Chassis/Dealing with
The Norden 901 Expedition features a robust chromoly-steel chassis, cleverly harnessing the power of its engine to provide structural reinforcement. The lawn mower is prepared for use at 25.8 levels, featuring a 4.2-inch path width. The bike features an out-of-the-box design with a robust die-cast aluminum swingarm, which leverages the innovative linkless PDS shock technology for unparalleled performance and control. A pair of tubeless wheels, measuring 21 inches by 2.5 inches for the front and 18 inches by 4.5 inches for the rear, are equipped with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires in sizes 90/90-21 and 150/70-18.
What sets the Expedition apart from its typical counterpart is the incorporation of exclusive off-road-oriented WP Xplor suspension configurations at both the front and rear ends. The entrance features an upgraded WP Apex 43 fork on the lower mannequin, exchanging its original 43mm stanchion for the more substantial Xplor 48 fork boasting 48mm stanchions for added performance and stability. The Xplor fork’s primary function is to control preload, whereas its counterpart, the Apex, regulates both compression and rebound settings. On the rear, the Apex shock is replaced with a more versatile Xplor shock unit, allowing for a smoother ride and better handling characteristics. While the Apex unit features preload and rebound damping as standard on a typical mannequin, its Xplor counterpart boasts an unparalleled level of adjustability, permitting riders to fine-tune settings for preload, compression, and both high- and low-speed rebound damping.
The journey capabilities of the new Expedition model will significantly improve, with ride heights increasing from 8.7 inches at the front and 8.5 inches at the rear to a uniform 9.4 inches at all four corners. The upgraded design boosts the Expedition’s floor clearance by 0.7 inch to an impressive 10.6, while simultaneously lengthening the wheelbase a mere 0.6 inches from its previous 59.5-inch mark to 60.1 inches.
“With its impressive weight of over 500 kilograms when fully fueled, the Expedition demonstrates exceptional hauling capabilities.” While its sibling, the 890 Journey, boasts a similar design, the Norden’s saddle-shaped gasoline tanks effectively place their considerable weight at a lower elevation. When navigating sandy terrain, this design feature proves particularly effective, rendering the bicycle surprisingly light in comparison to its numerical specifications.
On rugged terrain, a mushy and plush approach is often the most effective strategy. Here are just a few sections on our South African adventure: Exploring the rugged terrain of rocky outcrops and narrow canyons requires a strong sense of momentum to conquer the steep, beat-up trails and ledgy ascents that characterize this incredible climbing destination. The team’s decision to opt for a softer suspension setting on their bikes proved a wise one, as it helped to cushion the impact of unexpected bumps and jolts, thereby minimizing the risk of unwanted dismounts. While choosing a lane by the most crucial rocks may not seem like a monumental task, it’s actually quite significant in Expedition mode as the tracks can absorb hits effectively. If necessary, it’s acceptable to plough straight into other rocks to preserve momentum, rather than losing it. Despite all the obstacles, is there really any point in continuing down this path if we’re not going to make a meaningful impact?
As well-established as the reputation of Pirelli tires are, most For riders planning to venture into sandy terrain, an extra-aggressive knobby entrance tire is well worth considering.
Brakes
A Brembo-sourced J.Juan brake setup features radial-mount four-piston calipers at the front, paired with 320mm discs, while the rear utilizes a twin-piston caliper and 260mm rotor.
Bosch’s 9.1MP Cornering ABS leverages an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) to detect the motorcycle’s lean angle, seamlessly adjusting its intervention when toggling between modes. While in Offroad mode, the anti-lock braking system (ABS) disables its rear-wheel function, allowing it to fully lock up if necessary, while simultaneously deactivating the lean-sensing technology and reducing ABS intervention.
The EPA’s Gasoline Guzzler Calculator helps you determine how much you’ll spend on gas annually based on your vehicle’s actual miles per gallon (MPG).
Input your car’s MPG and the number of miles you drive daily, and the calculator will provide an estimate of your annual fuel cost.
Gasoline mileage figures are currently unavailable for the Norden 901 Expedition.
Ergonomics: Consolation and Utility
According to Conner, a crucial aspect where Husky excelled in achieving stability was the thoughtful consideration of both the workspace and ergonomics. “With extended periods away from the tarmac, you’ll find yourself spending a fair amount of time standing on the pegs.” The bars’ placement is generally well-suited, with the ability to adjust them to six distinct positions offering 30mm of travel in both forward and backward directions. While standing, the commanding view afforded by the taller touring windscreen poses no issue; yet, when seated, the obstructed visibility caused by its imposing height becomes a significant hindrance. If planning to use the vehicle off-road frequently, we would likely store the accent catalog in a more prominent location to facilitate easier access during such use. As you drive along the highway, the windshield provides a reassuring barrier against the gusts of wind, while the strategically placed air vent, situated roughly three-quarters of the way up, effectively minimizes turbulence – even when wearing an off-road helmet for added protection.
The Ford Expedition’s rugged reputation was matched by its reliable performance on our test route. Seated comfortably, the bars’ design provides a sense of relaxation, while the seat itself offers moderate support without being overly firm, with adjustable height settings allowing for optimal positioning at either 34.4 inches in its lower position or 35.2 inches in its higher setting. The Expedition arrives standardly equipped with a heated rider seat and grip controls. As the seat adjusts to the downward position, knees bend slightly less than 90 degrees, allowing for extended periods of comfort in the saddle.
Electronics
Is the Husky’s mind like a complex Bosch engine control system that manages throttle inputs via advanced electronics? The system allows riders to select from four unique modes: Road, Rain, Off-road, and Explorer. In this customizable mode, riders have the flexibility to personalize traction control, throttle response, peak power delivery, and ABS settings according to their unique preferences. The Cornering MTC (Traction Control) system features a lean-angle-sensitive design, with nine levels of graduated intervention to manage rear-wheel slippage. The MTC also features advanced wheelie management capabilities, which are adjustable based on the selected riding mode. The advanced Motor Slip Regulation system skillfully regulates engine braking electronically, seamlessly integrating with the slipper clutch to ensure a smooth and refined riding experience. A notable benefit of the ride-by-wire system in the Expedition is the standard availability of cruise control functionality.
All the vehicle’s exterior lighting features are upgraded to LED technology, comprising a single high-intensity headlight, a pair of precise fog lamps, and sleek flip indicators. A 5-inch TFT display serves as the rider’s gateway to the bike’s menu systems and information screens.
Guarantee and Upkeep Protection
Husqvarna’s road fashion products come with a limited two-year warranty, subject to certain conditions.
High quality
While the Norden 901’s Match and End modes appear impressive, it’s crucial to verify their performance against its sibling models from KTM, as this insight can help identify potential mechanical issues during aggressive or extended riding.
Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition: The Ultimate Adventure Bike
• Engine: 893cc single-cylinder, 4-stroke DOHC with balanced actuation
• Power: 94 horsepower at 8,500 rpm
• Torque: 74.3 lb-ft at 6,000 rpm
• Transmission: 6-speed
• Seat Height: 34.65 inches
• Ground Clearance: 9.06 inches
• Wheelbase: 58.11 inches
• Dry Weight: 442.1 pounds
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 5.3 gallons
• Suspension: WP USD front fork, WP monoshock rear suspension
| MSRP: | $15,799 |
|---|---|
| Engine: | The DOHC, liquid-cooled parallel twin features a sophisticated 4-valve-per-cylinder design for maximum power and efficiency. |
| Displacement: | 889cc |
| Bore x Stroke: | 90.7 x 68.8mm |
| Compression Ratio: | 13.5:1 |
| Transmission/Ultimate Drive: | 6-speed/chain |
| Claimed Horsepower: | 105.0 hp @ 8,000 rpm |
| Claimed Torque: | 74.0 lb.-ft. @ 6,500 rpm |
| Gasoline System: | EFI-equipped engines with twin 46mm Dell’Orto carburetors |
| Clutch: | PASC slipper clutch; cable actuation |
| Engine Administration/Ignition: | Bosch EMS w/ ride-by-wire |
| Body: | Chromoly-steel |
| Entrance Suspension: | WP Xplor 48mm inverted fork, fully adjustable; 24 cm journey |
| Rear Suspension: | The WP Xplor PDS shock offers total adjustability and features a length of 9.4 inches. journey |
| Entrance Brake: | Radially mounted four-piston brake calipers partner with a substantial 320-millimeter rotor and advanced Bosch anti-lock braking system (ABS). |
| Rear Brake: | Two-piston floating caliper, 260mm disc with Bosch anti-lock braking system. |
| Wheels, Entrance/Rear: | Tubeless aluminum spoked wheels, measuring 21 inches by 2.5 inches. / 18 x 4.5 in. |
| Tires, Entrance/Rear: | Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR (90/90R21 150/70R18) |
| Rake/Path: | 25.8°/4.2 in. |
| Wheelbase: | 60.1 in. |
| Floor Clearance: | 10.6 in. |
| Seat Peak: | 34.4–35.3 in. |
| Gasoline Capability: | 5.0 gal. |
| Claimed Dry Weight: | 473 lb. |
| Contact: | husqvarna-motorcycles.com |
