Time flies doesn’t it? It’s already been almost two years now since Husqvarna created a stir by releasing images of its first adventure travel machine — the Norden 901. After receiving a resoundingly positive reception for its new concept, Husqvarna announced they’d be moving forward with building the bike. Since then, details have been scarce about the new model’s specs and features but we do know it will be based on the KTM 890 Adventure platform. Other than that, we’ve seen different spy shots floating around the Internet showing it being tested and we know from an interview with KTM Group Head, Stefan Pierer, we can expect it to be released as a 2022 model. 

Now Husqvarna appears to be ramping up its teaser marketing in preparation for an imminent launch announcement. This week the Swedish-born brand started a new video series about the origins of the Norden 901 that takes viewers on a behind-the-scenes look at the journey the company took to develop its first adventure bike.

In this first episode, we meet the two Kiska designers — Italian Marcello Basilio and Frenchman Jules Fontvielle — who were responsible for transforming the Norden 901 from a vision into reality. Both united in their love for 80’s rally bikes, Jules and Marcello were the perfect mix of passion and flair to bring the Norden 901 to life. The video goes on to explore how the Norden’s inspiration came from Rally and Motocross bikes, and how they integrated both classic and modern designs to create a completely new statement. “We even took inspiration from the lightweight FC motocross range and tried to apply that philosophy to a bigger bike,” says Marcello.

The team wanted the Norden to be simple, progressive and approachable. Something instantly recognizable. “We have a typical ultra-modern round light. It’s simple in itself. But it’s rich of detail. Enough to give you a completely new feeling,” adds Marcello. All the while, the Kiska duo ensured function was followed by aesthetics, and they achieved a design that is truly Husqvarna, inspired by the rugged beauty of Scandinavia.

No details have been released on what’s next for future episodes, but we expect the series will give an inside look at everything from engineering to final production, and hopefully reveal other details about the bike that have been obscured from the public so far. 

If you are a fan of the Norden 901, keep an eye out for the next episode to drop soon, or better yet, subscribe to Husqvarna’s YouTube channel to get notified. Stay tuned for more!

Update: Episodes 2-5 Released

Author: Rob Dabney

Rob Dabney started a lifelong obsession with motorcycles at the age of 15 when he purchased his first bike – a 1982 Honda MB5. Through his 20’s and 30’s he competed in off-road desert races, including the Baja 250, 500 and 1000. Eventually, his proclivity for exploration led him to dual sport and adventure riding. Rob’s never-ending quest to discover what’s around the next bend has taken him on Adventures in Latin America, Africa, Europe, Asia, and throughout the American West. As a moto journalist, he enjoys inspiring others to seek adventure across horizons both near and far.