POSEURS NEEDED

The 401s give the impression of being purists’ bikes; simple, effective and free from anything unnecessary

At their official launch, the assembled press quickly learned of the alternative philosophy behind the new Austrian-built Husqvarnas. Husky’s PR man told us that the 401s are “unique motorcycles, which shouldn’t be looked at using the normal parameters. These are imaginative machines for the fashion conscious set, and not a bike built for sheer performance. They represent Husqvarna’s vision for the future, and are the first in its new Street Range”. He went on to stress the 401s’ simple, progressive, and clean design, labelling them as “urban progressive roadsters, built to endure the demands of urban exploration”.

His marketing-speak and references to the needs of a new and expanding bike market began to trigger a bit of cynicism in me. Being a bit old school I was worried the announcements might well be a case if getting the excuses in early for stylish, but ultimately poorly performing motorcycles. Still, as it’s my job