Aspirations have grown in size, so have the engines but that doesn’t mean that the 250cc motorcycle segment is obsolete now. It might not be as thriving as before but relevance? Oh, this segment still has it. Keeping the flame alive and flickering are offerings like the Husqvarna Vitpilen 250. One might argue that it is just the KTM 250 Duke in saner, more mature clothes and that argument would stand corrected but is there more to this Husky? Does it have what it takes to deliver the kill while moving around swiftly in a tuxedo? Especially when it has lost some of its edge? Many questions were raised and put to rest when we had this gorgeous Swedish flicka.
A Bit Diluted Than Before
The previous iteration of the Husqvarna Vitpilen 250 was a thoroughbred cafe-racer, in its design and intent both. The new one, however, has ditched the niche route and has now chosen a path which would lead to pleasing the masses. While it still looks authentically Husqvarna because of its distinctive styling and symmetrical lines, the older one was still unapologetic. However, I can see why Husqvarna has taken this route. The older version might have appealed to enthusiasts but it didn’t find that many takers and a good business model runs on minting money, not winning hearts. It was compact, aggressive and used to feel a little tall for shorter riders.
This story is from the November 2024 edition of BBC TopGear India.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the November 2024 edition of BBC TopGear India.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Mi5 SILENT, POSH AND LETHAL!
With its reimagined design language, BMW has done what it does best-divided opinion with the kind of fervour usually reserved for debates about pineapple on pizza.
A VIRAL ESCAPE
The last time I visited Hampi in Karnataka was back in 2021, just as the world began to shake off the COVID-19 travel bans.
FROM UNDERDOG TO CHAMPION
Thierry Neuville's Journey to WRC Glory
Max Verstappen: FOUR-TIME CHAMP UNDER THE VEGAS LIGHTS
From dominance to resilience, Verstappen cements his legacy while Mercedes shines in Sin
VOLKSWAGEN VIRTUS GT PLUS SPORT: SEXY+SPORT
Volkswagen has a knack for keeping their loyal and enthusiastic customers grinning from ear to ear. The German manufacturer has almost become synonymous with build quality, safety and performance.
BE GE AND XEV 9E Sexy and Ballsy!
Starting a review can be quite a challenge, especially when it's hard to pinpoint the flaws!
CAPTURING THE ESSENCE
Chilly, cold mornings and Mumbai is a rare combination that we seldom see in this part of our beautiful country.
BATTLE OF TWO GOLIATHS
When Luxury Meets Performance, Who Takes the Crown?
THE E-MPV THAT DARES TO DREAM BIG
The MPV market, dominated for aeons by Toyota's Innova, has always felt like a rather predictable place. It's the type of vehicle you buy not out of passion but practicality-like a pair of orthopaedic shoes.
IMPRACTICAL YET IRRESISTIBLE
Exactly ten years ago, I took my first international trip. It was to Bahrain, a country of endless desert and skyscrapers, where my aunt and uncle lived. Among their friends and neighbours, one particular gentleman, upon learning I was a budding petrolhead, took an entire day off work to take me around the city’s showrooms to see some “normal” Middle East traffic.
