From a firearms manufacturer to a global icon in the motorcycle industry, the story of Husqvarna is filled with innovations across a variety of fields. As we approach 2024, marking the manufacturer’s 325th anniversary, SM Sport highlights the rich history of Husqvarna.
Presentation of Husqvarna Brand
Husqvarna is a Swedish brand today recognized for two divisions: forestry and gardening tools and motorcycles. Though the brand has distinguished itself in a multitude of products, innovation, engineering, and passion are the common threads that link each creation.
I. The Beginnings of Husqvarna Motorcycles
As Europe was in an era of wars and transformations, Husqvarna was born in 1689 in the city of the same name. The factory was set up near waterfalls, and the brand began to make its mark in the production of firearms.
II. Evolution Through the Decades
By the end of the 19th century, the need for firearms decreased, giving rise to the opportunity to diversify. Throughout its history, Husqvarna has leveraged its engineering expertise to develop various products:
- Sewing machines
- Wood stoves
- Meat grinders
- The first Swedish typewriter
- Bicycles
In 1903, a new era began: Husqvarna produced its very first motorcycle.
The manufacturer would eventually join the Swedish Electrolux group in 1977, be acquired by BMW in 2007, and then by the manufacturer KTM in 2013.
III. Innovation and Technologies
Regardless of the field, Husqvarna has always stood out for its avant-garde technologies.
For example, the brand applied noise reduction technologies to chainsaws and designed the first automatic chain brake to improve safety. Then, it developed the first fully robotic lawnmower, Rider, powered by solar energy.
In the realm of motorcycles, the brand has significantly contributed to the establishment of motocross. Husqvarna even exported this sport to the United States. Famous riders like Malcolm Smith and Steve McQueen have ridden Husqvarnas!
Its innovative solutions have always been user-focused, promising a more pleasurable, safe, and high-performance experience.
IV. Husqvarna in the World of Competition
From its inception, the Swedish brand has fiercely measured up to its rivals. In the 1920s and 1930s, its road motorcycles stood out in several races like the Tourist Trophy.
From 1960 to 1963, the brand designed impressively performing 2-stroke and 4-stroke engines, earning it 5 titles at the FIM World Championships.
Between 1960 and 1970, the story of Husqvarna motorcycles reached a golden age with the development of its off-road expertise. In these two decades, the models scooped up awards:
- 14 world motocross champion titles
- 24 European champion titles
- 11 Baja victories
In 1982, the MC 258 model won the 250 cc category of the Paris-Dakar rally. At that time, Husqvarna set the standard for off-road performances, combining off-road capabilities, lightness, and maneuverability.
In 2011, the brand once again participated in the world enduro championships, where it continues to shine. In total, the brand counts 82 world titles to date.
V. Iconic Models
Some models have marked the history of Husqvarna, including the Silverpilen (“Silver Arrow”) of 1955. This model was then a true pioneer in the motocross category.
The Husqvarna Cross 400 manufactured from 1971 to 1976 was another icon. After a line of heavy motorcycles, it heralded the arrival of a lightweight steel frame and a powerful single-cylinder engine. Its red color and appearances in several films with Steve McQueen helped make it an iconic model.
VI. Husqvarna Today and Tomorrow
Since its acquisition by KTM in 2013, Husqvarna has bounced back and developed an impressive number of high-quality motorcycles. The last ten years were notably marked by the arrival of the 701 Supermoto models in 2015, marking a return in the road category.
In 2018, the “pilen” made a comeback: after the iconic Silverpilen, it is now the Vitpilen 401 and Svartpilen 401 that carry the torch, premium road motorcycles.
In 2019, motocross entered the electric segment with the battery-powered EE 5. Moreover, the brand has also developed the Husqvarna range of electric bicycles for mountain or enduro!
Then, Husqvarna produced its first twin-cylinder motorcycle in the travel segment, the Norden 901, followed in 2023 by the Norden 901 Expedition. This latest combines on-road performance with unlimited off-road exploration! Discover all Husqvarna motorcycles.
Today, the brand is preparing to go further and conquer new markets. One thing is certain, Husqvarna’s innovation and design continue to win over many fans.
Husqvarna: the Best in Enduro?
In the category of enduros, Husqvarna has carved out a prime spot, so much so that many enthusiasts award it first place. With their quality suspension, powerful engines, and constant innovations, Husqvarnas continue to stand out.
The battle between Husqvarna and KTM continues to divide. One thing is certain, both brands share many similarities and rank among the best motorcycles in the industry. It’s all a matter of preference!
Your Husqvarna motorcycle awaits you at SM Sport in the Quebec region. Our expert team will guide you based on your selection criteria!
