2023 KTM 390 Duke vs 2024 Husqvarana Svartpilen 401: Key Differences

The Huskies are back and this time with fresh underpinnings, new features, and an evolved design. Just like before, most of these changes trickle down from its KTM counterpart. And for the first time in India, Husqvarna is offering the Svartpilen in its 401 guise. This means the same new 399cc, single-cylinder mill as the 390 Duke with the same output, built on the new trellis frame suspended by WP Apex 43mm USD fork and offset monoshock with both preload and rebound adjustability options. 

So, what’s the difference?

Design

Right from the offset, both the Husqvarna and KTM have their own unique approach towards this segment. The Husky further cements its neo retro chic scrambler credentials with a more rugged appeal, replete with dual purpose tyres. The KTM 390 Duke remains the loud, in-your-face radical, aggressive naked with equally polarising colour options. 

Features

The Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 also debuts a new 5-inch TFT instrument cluster, which is the same unit as found in the KTM 390 Duke, however the layout is different. On the Husky, smartphone connectivity is offered as an option but the Duke gets it as a standard fitment. 

Additionally, the KTM 390 Duke will leave you impressed with the additions of launch control, and the whole six-axis IMU gadgetry for cornering ABS. Just like the Duke, the new Svartpilen also gets two ride modes, and cornering ABS, but misses out on launch control. 

Tyres

Sticking to its rugged appeal, the Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 also comes equipped with premium dual-purpose Pirelli Scorpion STR tyres, unlike the road-biased Metzeler M5 Sportec H-rated tyres available with the KTM.

Aesthetically Different-Sized Fuel Tank 

The fuel tank shapes in both the KTM 390 Duke and Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 have always been unique in appeal. Both have their aesthetics on point, with the KTM looking more aggressive with slashed edges and extra overhangs. On the other hand, the utilitarian-looking Husqvarna Svarpilen’s tank might have grown in size but it continues to be smaller at 13.5-litres compared to the Austrian's 15-litres tank. 

Ergonomic Difference

However, despite the same underpinnings, the Husqvarna Svartpilen gets a longer wheelbase at 1368mm, compared to the KTM’s 1354mm. It also weighs heavier at 171.2 kg (kerb weight), compared to the KTM’s 168.3 kg kerb weight. This in turn has affected the Svartpilen’s ground clearance which is 5 mm lower at 177mm, compared to the KTM which stands 183mm off the ground. 

Price

With the different approaches to the segment, both the Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 and KTM 390 Duke will have unique riding experiences. While their applications within city limits will not be vastly different from one another, the way each one delivers on their fun quotients is what will make the key purchase decision.