Are you torn between the KTM 390 and the Husqvarna 401? You’re not alone. Both bikes pack a punch and offer thrilling rides, making it tough to choose the right one for your needs. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting out, understanding the differences can make all the difference in your experience.
Key Takeaways
- Engine Similarity: Both the KTM 390 and Husqvarna 401 feature a single-cylinder, 373cc engine, with the Husqvarna producing slightly more power (44 hp) compared to the KTM (43 hp).
- Unique Performance Styles: The KTM 390 excels in agility and sportiness, making it ideal for urban environments, whereas the Husqvarna 401 offers a relaxed ride suited for longer journeys.
- Distinct Designs: The KTM 390 boasts an aggressive and rugged look, while the Husqvarna 401 features a sleek and minimalist design, catering to different aesthetic preferences.
- Comfort and Ergonomics: The KTM is designed for a sportier riding position, enhancing quick maneuverability, while the Husqvarna emphasizes comfort with an upright seating posture.
- Fuel Efficiency and Range: Both motorcycles offer impressive fuel efficiency, with the KTM averaging 70 MPG and the Husqvarna 68 MPG, providing a good range for extended rides.
- Pricing: The KTM 390 is generally priced around $5,500, and the Husqvarna 401 starts at approximately $5,800, making both models competitively priced with similar features.
Overview of KTM 390 and Husqvarna 401
The KTM 390 and Husqvarna 401 are popular choices among riders due to their unique features and performance capabilities. Understanding their specifications and performance can help you make an informed decision.
Key Specifications
| Specification | KTM 390 | Husqvarna 401 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | Single-cylinder, 373cc | Single-cylinder, 373cc |
| Power | 43 hp | 44 hp |
| Torque | 37 Nm | 37 Nm |
| Weight | 165 kg | 167 kg |
| Seat Height | 830 mm | 835 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 13.5 liters | 12 liters |
Both motorcycles share a similar engine configuration, providing comparable power and torque figures. The slightly different weight and seat height may affect comfort and handling based on your riding style.
Performance Comparison
Both the KTM 390 and Husqvarna 401 deliver impressive performance on various terrains. The KTM 390 focuses on agility, offering sharp handling and quick acceleration. It performs well in urban environments and on twisty roads.
The Husqvarna 401, while also agile, emphasizes a more relaxed ride. It features a slightly different suspension setup that provides better stability at higher speeds. This bike excels on longer rides, offering comfort for both short and extended trips.
Acceleration for both models is brisk, with the KTM 390 often achieving a 0-60 mph time in about 5.5 seconds. The Husqvarna 401 is marginally quicker, with a similar time due to its similar power output.
Understanding these nuances allows you to select the motorcycle that best suits your riding preferences.
Design and Styling
Both the KTM 390 and Husqvarna 401 showcase distinct design philosophies that cater to different rider aesthetics and preferences.
Aesthetic Differences
KTM 390 boasts a bold, aggressive look highlighted by its sharp lines, vibrant orange accents, and rugged stance. This design reflects its performance-oriented nature and off-road capabilities. Meanwhile, the Husqvarna 401 presents a sleek, minimalist design with a blend of classic and modern elements. Its white, blue, and yellow color scheme offers a clean, stylish appearance that appeals to riders who favor a more subdued look. Each motorcycle’s design emphasizes its brand identity, ensuring that you choose one that aligns with your personal style.
Ergonomics and Comfort
Ergonomically, both models cater to different riding experiences. The KTM 390 features a slightly more aggressive riding position, which supports sporty handling and quick maneuvering. This position may feel more suitable for spirited rides and urban commuting. The Husqvarna 401, on the other hand, provides a more upright seating position that promotes comfort on longer journeys. Its seat is cushioned and designed for greater rider comfort, making it preferable for longer rides. Selecting the right bike based on ergonomics aligns with your unique riding habits and comfort preferences.
Handling and Ride Quality
Both the KTM 390 and Husqvarna 401 offer impressive handling and ride quality, tailored for different riding styles. Understanding their differences aids in selecting the right bike for your needs.
Suspension and Chassis
The KTM 390 features a lightweight trellis frame along with a well-tuned suspension system. It uses 43mm WP forks in the front and a WP monoshock in the rear, providing responsive feedback on the road. You’ll notice how it absorbs bumps effectively, enhancing cornering confidence. The Husqvarna 401, while similar, boasts a slightly different setup with its own WP suspension components. Its chassis offers stability, particularly in straight-line riding. You’ll find that both bikes handle bumps and potholes well, but the KTM leans towards sporty dynamics while the Husqvarna emphasizes comfort.
Ride Experience
When it comes to ride experience, the KTM 390 delivers an exhilarating performance. You’ll appreciate its sharp handling and nimbleness in city traffic or during spirited rides on winding roads. Accelerating quickly becomes easy, making it enjoyable for short bursts. The Husqvarna 401, on the other hand, provides a relaxed ride. Its moderate ergonomics and stability make longer journeys less taxing. You’ll feel comfortable even after several hours in the saddle. Both motorcycles cater to different rider preferences, so consider your typical riding scenarios when choosing.
Engine and Performance
Understanding the engine and performance of the KTM 390 and Husqvarna 401 is crucial for making an informed choice.
Power Output and Torque
Both the KTM 390 and Husqvarna 401 utilize a single-cylinder, 373cc engine. The KTM 390 generates 43 hp, while the Husqvarna 401 provides a slight edge with 44 hp. Torque figures are similarly close, with both bikes delivering around 37 Nm at 7,000 RPM. This similarity results in comparable acceleration times; the KTM 390 reaches 0-60 mph in approximately 5.5 seconds, with the Husqvarna 401 being marginally faster. The output differences may not be significant, but they affect the overall riding experience, especially in varied conditions.
Fuel Efficiency
When considering fuel efficiency, both models stand out. The KTM 390 boasts an average of 70 MPG (miles per gallon), making it a cost-effective choice for daily commuting. The Husqvarna 401 follows closely with around 68 MPG. Such efficiency allows for longer rides between fuel stops, catering to both urban and long-distance riders. Both models have a fuel tank capacity of around 3.5 gallons, providing a range of approximately 245 miles for the KTM and 238 miles for the Husqvarna, ensuring you can enjoy extended journeys without frequent refueling.
Technology and Features
Both the KTM 390 and Husqvarna 401 come equipped with advanced technology and features, enhancing the overall riding experience.
Instrumentation and Controls
Instrumentation on both models includes a full-color TFT display, providing clear visibility in various lighting conditions. The display shows vital information such as speed, RPM, gear position, fuel level, and trip information. Controls are intuitive and easy to navigate, allowing you to access features without distraction. Both bikes feature ride-by-wire throttle systems, enabling smoother power delivery and better throttle response.
Safety Features
Safety features play a crucial role in rider confidence. Both the KTM 390 and Husqvarna 401 come with ABS as standard, preventing wheel lock-up during hard braking. The traction control system on each model enhances stability on slippery surfaces. The lightweight chassis and responsive braking systems further contribute to safety, ensuring you maintain control under various riding conditions. Additionally, the bikes utilize premium tires that provide excellent grip and stability, improving overall safety on both urban roads and highways.
Pricing and Value
Pricing plays a significant role when choosing between the KTM 390 and Husqvarna 401. Both bikes cater to similar markets, yet their pricing strategies differ slightly.
Price Comparison
The KTM 390 typically retails around $5,500 while the Husqvarna 401 starts at approximately $5,800. Few cents separate their sticker prices, making it essential to evaluate the features each model offers for the price. Both models include a modern TFT display, lightweight construction, and advanced safety features. You might find promotions that influence out-the-door pricing; checking local dealerships for the best deals is wise.
Value for Money
Value for money hinges on how well the motorcycles meet your needs. The KTM 390 emphasizes sportiness, equipped with agile handling and quick acceleration, which may appeal to riders seeking thrill in city riding. Conversely, the Husqvarna 401 offers a more comfortable, stable ride, ideal for longer journeys. Both bikes provide impressive fuel efficiency—around 70 MPG for the KTM and 68 MPG for the Husqvarna—helping you save at the pumps. Prioritize your riding style and intended use to determine which motorcycle provides better value.
Conclusion
Choosing between the KTM 390 and the Husqvarna 401 ultimately comes down to your personal riding style and preferences. If you crave agility and sportiness for urban adventures the KTM 390 might be your best bet. On the other hand if you’re looking for comfort during longer rides the Husqvarna 401 could be more suited to your needs.
Both bikes offer impressive performance and advanced features making either a solid choice. Take the time to consider how you plan to ride and what aspects matter most to you. Whichever you choose you’re sure to enjoy the thrill of the ride.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between the KTM 390 and Husqvarna 401?
Both motorcycles feature a 373cc engine but differ in performance and design. The KTM 390 is known for aggressive handling and urban agility, while the Husqvarna 401 offers a more relaxed ride and better stability for longer journeys.
Which motorcycle is better for new riders?
While both bikes are suitable for new riders, the KTM 390’s sportier design and responsive handling may appeal more to those seeking excitement. Conversely, the Husqvarna 401 offers a comfortable seating position, which can be beneficial for beginners.
How do the specifications of these motorcycles compare?
The KTM 390 produces 43 hp, while the Husqvarna 401 delivers 44 hp. They both generate approximately 37 Nm of torque and feature similar fuel capacities, but slight differences in weight and seat height could impact comfort and handling preferences.
Which motorcycle has better fuel efficiency?
The KTM 390 averages around 70 MPG, making it slightly more fuel-efficient than the Husqvarna 401, which averages approximately 68 MPG. Both bikes have a fuel tank capacity of about 3.5 gallons, suitable for longer rides.
What are the safety features of the KTM 390 and Husqvarna 401?
Both models are equipped with standard ABS and traction control systems that enhance stability and rider confidence. Additionally, they feature lightweight frames and premium tires for improved grip on various road conditions.
How do the designs of the KTM 390 and Husqvarna 401 differ?
The KTM 390 has a bold, aggressive look with sharp lines and vibrant orange accents, appealing to performance-oriented riders. In contrast, the Husqvarna 401’s sleek, minimalist design caters to those who prefer a more subtle aesthetic.
Which motorcycle is better for long-distance rides?
The Husqvarna 401 is designed for comfort on longer journeys, thanks to its more upright seating position. It offers stability at higher speeds, making it a better choice for extended rides compared to the sportier KTM 390.
What is the price range for the KTM 390 and Husqvarna 401?
The KTM 390 typically retails around $5,500, while the Husqvarna 401 starts at approximately $5,800. Evaluating the features each model offers for the price is essential for potential buyers.
How do I choose between the KTM 390 and Husqvarna 401?
Consider your riding style and preferences. If you prefer sportiness and agility for city riding, the KTM 390 may be the better fit. If comfort and stability for longer journeys are more important, the Husqvarna 401 could be the ideal choice.
