Here's What’s Different Between The Husqvarna 250s And The KTM 250 Duke

Husqvarna has finally started its India innings, but not with the 401 twins that everyone was expecting the bike maker to unveil. Instead, we have received the smaller Svartpilen 250 and the Vitpilen 250. Just like how the 401s are based on the KTM 390 Duke, the 250s are based on the 250 Duke. So if you are confused whether you should join Team Austria or Team Sweden, we can help.

Design: 

This is where the three motorcycles are poles apart. While the KTM 250 Duke is a naked streetfighter, the Svartpilen 250 is a scrambler and the Vitpilen 250 is a cafe racer. The 250 Duke, being a KTM, is easily recognisable with the orange trellis frame. In comparison, the Husky twins have received a subtle colour scheme like silver and black. Apart from the visual difference, even the ergonomics are varied between the three bikes. The 250 Duke gets higher-set handlebars and slightly rear-set footpegs. The Vitpilen 250, being a cafe racer, gets lower-set handlebars and the Svartpilen 250 comes equipped with slightly raised handlebars. Now, we have already ridden the 250 Duke and here’s what we think, however, we will reserve our judgement on how the Husky twins will fare in the real world. 

Engine: 

Powering the three bikes is the same BS6-compliant 248.8cc single-cylinder motor that makes 30PS and 24Nm of torque, paired to a six-speed gearbox. So we have to test these bikes back to back to see which one tops the other. 

Underpinnings: 

The Swedish duo employ the same suspension and brake setup as their Austrian cousin. So, the front comes with a 43mm USD fork while the rear features a preload-adjustable monoshock. Anchoring these motorcycles is a 300mm disc up front and a 230mm disc at the rear, with dual-channel ABS offered as standard. When it comes to weight, it’s the 250 Duke that has a little edge over its Swedish cousins. The naked streetfighter tips the scale at 146kg(dry), whereas the Vitpilen 250 weighs 153kg and the Svartpilen 250 (154kg) is the heaviest of the lot. 

Price: 

Although Husqvarna has positioned the 250s as a premium alternative compared to the other quarter-litre motorcycles, the motorcycles are quite competitively priced. The Svartpilen 250 and the Vitpilen 250 retails at Rs 1.80 lakh (ex-showroom), making them Rs 20,576 more affordable than the KTM 250 Duke! However, these are introductory prices and expect Husqvarna to increase the price soon.