120 year anniversary

120 years of staying true to a pioneering vision

A pioneer of motorcycle development from as early as 1903, Husqvarna Motorcycles has maintained uninterrupted production of its machines ever since, becoming one of the longest running and most revered global motorcycle brands.

Throughout its 120-year-history, the brand has experienced several transformations. Since being acquired in 2013 by the KTM Group, known today as PIERER Mobility AG, Husqvarna Motorcycles has enjoyed its most successful era to date, selling more than 360,000 motorcycles worldwide. Looking ahead, the brand is focused on increasing growth, reaching new markets, and the continual development of a wider motorcycle range.

Where do we come from?

Husqvarna, originally a metal-working company, was founded in 1689 in the Swedish town of Huskvarna to produce muskets for the nation’s army. The production of motorcycles began in 1903 by introducing the first motorised bicycle.

During the 1920s and 1930s, Husqvarna Motorcycles built competitive street motorcycles and by entering prestigious road racing events such as the Isle of Man TT, the brand quickly established itself in Europe. Through the years that followed, multiple, high-performance 2-stroke and 4-stroke engines were developed and between 1960 and 1963, five FIM World Championship titles were won with Husqvarna machinery across both the 250 cc, and 500 cc categories.

After helping to establish the sport of motocross in Europe, Husqvarna Motorcycles paved the way in taking the sport to the USA. Among the high-profile Husqvarna Motorcycles riders from the successful 1960s and 1970s era were Torsten Hallman, Malcolm Smith, and Hollywood actor Steve McQueen.

In 1977, the brand joined Sweden’s Electrolux Group and six short years later, Husqvarna’s 500 cc, 4-stroke motocross model set the benchmark for offroad performance. The exceptionally light and easy-handling motorcycle was revolutionary and the machine of choice for many competitive racers. In 2007, Husqvarna Motorcycles was briefly acquired by the BMW Group before joining PIERER Mobility AG in 2013.

Since the acquisition, Husqvarna Motorcycles has introduced an impressive range of both on and offroad models. Every machine is expertly assembled with a devotion to detail, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, and designed with inspiration taken from the brand’s rich heritage. Over a dozen high-tech, class-leading motorcycles cater for the enduro, motocross, and street sectors, alongside the premium travel machines allowing for unlimited, global expeditions.

1689

Where it all started

On the Swedish king’s command, a weapons factory was founded in the town of Huskvarna.

1903

The two-wheeled journey begins

Husqvarna produced its first motorcycle in 1903 – which at the time was a motorised bicycle – and has maintained uninterrupted production of its machines ever since.

1955

The pioneers of motocross

The iconic Silverpilen from 1955. Meaning “silver arrow” in Husqvarna’s native Swedish, it was a pioneering Husqvarna model, purpose-built for offroad use.

1960

Building the legend

The glorious 1960s and 1970s! A golden-age dawned for Husqvarna, just as offroad motorcycling was booming in growth and popularity. By storming to 14 Motocross World Championship Titles, 24 European European Championships, and 11 Baja victories, Husqvarna quickly became the ultimate offroad motorcycle racing brand of the era.

1987

The Italian adventure

When Husqvarna Motorcycles was bought by Cagiva MV Agusta in 1987 – plans were set to relocate to Italy by 1988. The core Husqvarna development team chose to remain in Sweden instead, breaking away and launching “Husaberg” in 1988.

2013

Two halves become one again

In 2013, KTM Group (Husaberg’s owner) bought Husqvarna Motorcycles, marking the reunion of two halves of the original Husqvarna brand of the 60s and 70s! The Husqvarna Motorcycles brand returned to its glorious origins with state-of-the-art technology and the iconic Swedish blue, yellow and white colour scheme.

2015

A new generation of street production models

When the 701 Supermoto production models arrive at dealers, the brand once more takes a pioneering step forward as it formally re-enters the street segment. As the pure essence of Supermoto, the motorcycle combines understated design with high performance to continue Husqvarna’s long and successful Supermoto heritage.

2018

Rebirth of the pilen

The Vitpilen 401 and Svartpilen 401 production models are officially launched, adding a premium street line-up to the existing model portfolio.

2019

Breaking new ground

With electric mobility becoming an ever-present reality, Husqvarna Motorcycles enters the market with the revolutionary, battery-powered EE 5 mini-crosser.

2020

West meets east

Husqvarna Motorcycles becomes available in India, South East Asia, and Latin America, launching into these markets with a collection of 200 cc and 250 cc street motorcycles in a bid to bolster sales and further grow the brand.

2021

Go north

Husqvarna Motorcycles introduces its first ever twin-cylinder motorcycle, the Norden 901. This marks the brand’s exciting expansion into the growing travel segment.

2023

Explore further

Two years after a successful entry into the travel segment, the brand releases the Norden 901 Expedition – a highly capable touring machine designed to offer endless exploration both on and offroad.

2023

120 year anniversary

Husqvarna Motorcycles celebrates 120 years of brand heritage and production, a rich racing history, and its highly regarded position as one of the longest running motorcycle manufacturers in the world.