World Exclusive: KTM 490 parallel-twin based Husqvarna 501 series under development

The Husqvarna 401 series shares its underpinnings and engine with the KTM 390 Duke. Now, Indian Autos Blog has learnt that the Swedish motorcycle brand will borrow more engine platforms and underpinnings from the Austrian manufacturer.

Also Read: Husqvarna 401 Indian launch rescheduled to 2020, high-end KTMs lined-up too

KTM is already working on its new 490 cc parallel-twin engine that will power its Duke, RC, Adventure, Supermoto and Enduro models. The same motor will also power Husqvarna products that will arrive under the 501 series. The Husqvarna 501 series will comprise classics (Vitpilen and Svartpilen? Maybe), a naked roadster, an adventure tourer/explorer, supermoto and enduro products.

KTM CEO Stefan Pierer had confirmed the 490 cc engine in December last year. The new motor will be manufactured by Bajaj Auto in India. The new powerplant from the Austrian brand will feature liquid-cooling, 8-valves, DOHC setup. KTM may also give it a 435-degree firing order – a feature that we have seen on the 790 Duke – for a V-Twin like character.

The performance numbers will be considerably higher than the 373.2 cc single-cylinder, DOHC, 4-Valve, liquid-cooled engine on the KTM 390 series. The 490 cc parallel-twin could deliver close to 55-60 hp of maximum power. For reference, the 373.2 cc single-cylinder mill makes 43 hp. The parallel-twin motor will employ a six-speed transmission with slipper and assist clutch. A ride-by-throttle will most definitely be part of the package. Do note that Husqvarna already has the FE 501 motorcycle listed under the Enduro range, but the vehicle uses a single-cylinder engine.

In terms of design, the retro-style vehicles under the 501 series will most likely draw inspiration from the Vitpilen and Svartpilen motorcycles. Thus, we expect to see a scrambler and a café racer in the list of upcoming products. Husqvarna does not have a naked roadster in its list, and thus it’s difficult to comment about styling cues for the 501 model. The Swedish brand already has a comprehensive Enduro and Supermoto portfolio, and the upcoming 501 will most likely draw design cues from those models. Lastly, the Husqvarna’s 701 Nomad Adventure could be used as the stencil for the 501 Explorer (adventure tourer) motorcycle.

The hardware specifications on the complete range will most likely include WP sourced suspension setup that will comprise inverted forks at the front and a mono-shock at the back. We expect the braking setup to include single discs on both wheels. The safety net will include switchable ABS.

Also Read: Upcoming KTM 250 Adventure seen in clear spy shot

We expect to hear more details at the upcoming EICMA motorcycle show in Milan, Italy.