When developing the original Norden 901, Husqvarna’s engineers had a clear objective in mind: to construct the quintessential adventure travel machine with an ideal blend of substance and style. They began with the rugged KTM 890 Adventure platform as its foundation, then enhanced it with a selection of premium touring amenities and other refinements. While the standard Norden delivered on its promise for many, it still left some adventure riders yearning for more. And that’s the aim of the Norden 901 Expedition — satisfying that yearning.

At its core, the Expedition is the same 899cc parallel-twin LC8c engine putting out 105 horsepower and 74 ft-lbs of torque, positioned in a steel trellis frame, riding on 21″/18″ tubeless spoke wheels. As before, a full suite of advanced electronic rider aids, cruise control and integrated fog lights are managed through a crisp 5” TFT display using convenient handlebar thumb controls. And it continues to feature top-shelf equipment like a quick shifter, powerful Brembo brakes, and premium finish details. So what’s been improved?

To start, the lower-spec WP APEX suspension has been set aside, replaced by WP’s XPLOR suspension featuring a 48mm USD fork (previously 43 mm) and a PDS rear shock that is now fully adjustable. The suspension travel has also been increased by about an inch to 9.45″ front and rear. It’s the same level of componentry found on the KTM 890 Adventure R, yet with its own unique damping and spring rate settings tuned more for comfort rather than all-out performance. Ground clearance is boosted as well from 9.9″ to 10.6″, contributing to a 0.8″ increase in seat height.

What’s more, many of the original Norden’s ‘optional’ accessories are now included on the Expedition model like heated grips, heated pilot seat, center stand, pannier racks, and soft panniers. Plus there are optional electronic upgrades that are now standard like the Bluetooth ‘Connectivity Unit’ that lets you connect your phone and a headset for turn-by-turn directions, music playlists, phone calls, and more. The ‘Explorer Pack’ is also now included that gets you the ‘Explorer’ ride mode with 9-stage adjustable traction control and configurable throttle response settings. Other unique upgrades include a tall touring windscreen, heavy-duty skid plate, new seat cover, and a fresh set of premium graphics to match. 

Was it enough? After two days of testing in the desert and mountainous terrain of South Africa, we experienced everything from deep sand to boulder fields and some epic canyon carving thrown in for good measure. After several hundred miles of varied testing, we give a rundown of its performance on both dirt and street. We also put in some highway miles to explore its long-haul versatility.

Is it a significant improvement over the standard 901? How well does it handle serious off-road terrain? Will it satisfy those who wanted more from the original 901? We have answers to all your burning questions and more.

Thanks for checking out the video and let us know your thoughts and questions in the comments below. For those of you who don’t mind a little reading, you can also check out our full review article of the 2023 Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition here.

Photos by Sebas Romero and Marco Campelli

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.