In a world filled with identikit A2-licence bikes, the 2020 Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 stands out. It’s not just another beginner-friendly machine; it’s a bold design statement, a high-specification urban tool, and a characterful motorcycle all rolled into one. If you’re looking for a bike that turns heads, delivers a thrilling ride, and is packed with premium features, this “Black Arrow” is a compelling choice.
First, let’s talk about the looks. The Svartpilen 401 is simply stunning, blending rugged scrambler aesthetics with futuristic, minimalist design. It’s what many call “neo-retro,” but it feels more unique than that.
The 2020 model retains the iconic shape: a sculpted fuel tank with a practical luggage rack, a slim, one-piece seat, and a distinctive round LED headlamp encircled by a protective cage. The spoked wheels, shod in knobbly-looking Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tyres, and the upright, scrambler-style handlebars complete the look. The dark colour scheme, accented with bronze engine cases and subtle yellow highlights, gives it a premium, moody appearance that looks far more expensive than it is. It’s a bike that gets attention and questions at every petrol stop.
Beneath the unique styling lies the proven heart of the KTM 390 Duke—a fantastic 373cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine. For 2020, this DOHC motor is as lively as ever, pumping out a healthy 43 bhp and 37 Nm of torque. This makes it perfectly compliant for A2 licence holders whilst offering more than enough poke to put a massive grin on your face.
It’s a “thumper” in the best sense of the word—characterful, punchy, and eager to rev. The ride-by-wire throttle ensures a crisp and immediate response, making it an absolute joy to squirt through city traffic or blast down a winding country lane. It feels energetic and alive, a refreshing change from the often-tame feel of competitor bikes.
This is where the Svartpilen 401 truly shines. Weighing in at only 152 kg (dry), the bike feels incredibly light and flickable. The steel trellis frame provides a stiff, responsive chassis, while the high-quality suspension from WP (a 43mm APEX USD fork and rear monoshock) soaks up bumps and keeps the bike planted. For 2020, Husqvarna blessed the 401 with adjustable suspension, allowing you to fine-tune the ride to your liking—a premium feature for this class.
Combined with the powerful ByBre (Brembo’s sibling brand) four-piston radial caliper biting a 320mm disc, the Svartpilen stops with confidence and control, all backed up by a Bosch ABS system. This combination of low weight, quality suspension, and strong brakes makes it an urban warrior’s dream, capable of carving through traffic and diving into corners with razor-sharp precision.
What really sets the 2020 model apart are its significant, sales-positive upgrades. The headline feature is the inclusion of an Easy Shift (quickshifter) as standard. This allows for clutchless up-and-down shifts, making the ride more engaging and sporty. It’s a feature typically reserved for more expensive, high-performance bikes and is a massive selling point for the Svartpilen.
Furthermore, Husqvarna listened to feedback and updated the 2020 model with a new, extended subframe. This translates to a slightly longer and more comfortable seat, making life much better for pillion passengers and adding to the bike’s everyday practicality.
The 2020 Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 is a phenomenal package. It offers a unique and desirable style that sets it apart from every other bike in its category. It backs up those rugged good looks with a lively engine, superb handling, and a list of premium components (WP, ByBre, Ride-by-Wire) that competitors struggle to match.
With the 2020 additions of a standard quickshifter and improved pillion comfort, it’s not just a style icon; it’s a practical and thrilling ride. For the A2 licence holder in the UK, or even an experienced rider looking for a light, fun, and stylish second bike, the Svartpilen 401 is one of the most exciting and value-packed options on the market. It’s a bike you’ll buy with your head, but love with your heart.
No corner of the UK is too far for the delivery team and it’s partners at Mallory Motorcycles. We proudly deliver to all major cities, towns, and even remote areas across the entire nation, including:
Mallory Motorcycles Ltd is registered in England and Wales (Company Registration number 13948787). Registered Address Unit 2 Griffon Road, Derbyshire DE7 4RF. Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (number 1037062). Mallory Motorcycles Ltd is a credit broker and not a lender. We can introduce you to a limited number of finance lenders and for such introductions we will receive commission. The commission payment can be either a fixed fee or a fixed percentage of the amount you borrow. The lenders we work with could pay commission at different rates. The commission we receive will not affect the amount you repay under the credit agreement. All finance is subject to status. Terms and conditions apply. Applicants must be 18 years or over.
