If you’re anything like me, you’ve got a soft spot for Husqvarna motorcycles. These beauties, with their light, agile frames and KTM-produced engines, are like the love children of speed and style. And let me tell you, I’m still kicking myself for not grabbing that dealer-special, heavily-discounted Vitpilen 701 when I had the chance.
But enough about missed opportunities. Let’s talk about something that will make any Husqvarna lover’s heart race: the WP XPLOR PRO suspension setup for the Norden 901. Buckle up, folks, because this ride is about to get wild!
The Norden 901: Already a Star
First things first, the Norden 901 is already a fabulous piece of machinery. Whether you’re tearing up the tarmac or hitting the trails, this bike doesn’t disappoint. With its powerful engine, rugged design, and versatility, the Norden 901 is a dream come true for adventure riders. But, as with anything in life, there’s always room for improvement, right? Enter WP and their suspension wunderkind setup.
Meet WP XPLOR PRO: The Game Changer
Now, what do you do when you think your bike’s suspension isn’t up to the task? Simple. You call in the experts. WP, with their knack for suspension wizardry, decided that the stock Norden 901 setup needed an upgrade. And who better to approve this than KTM enduro rider Chris Birch? The result? The XPLOR PRO setup, a suspension system designed to take your off-road adventures to a whole new level.
What Makes XPLOR PRO So Special?
So, what’s all the fuss about? The XPLOR PRO setup isn’t just a minor tweak; it’s a complete overhaul. Let’s break it down:
- Front Fork Magic: The front fork features WP’s Cone Valve technology, offering progressive damping and full adjustability. This means you can dial in exactly what you want, tailored to your weight and riding style. Fancy, huh?
- Rear Shock Sorcery: The rear shock doesn’t lag behind. With the same progressive damping and full adjustability, it ensures your wheel stays in contact with the ground, providing maximum traction. Plus, adjusting it on the go is a breeze, so you can make changes even in the backwoods.
- Two Versions, Double the Fun: WP offers both a standard and a long-travel version. The latter increases your travel and bike height, giving you more ground clearance. Perfect for those gnarly trails!
The Price of Perfection
Now, let’s talk numbers. The WP setup will set you back $3,599 for the forks and $2,800 for the shock. Ouch, right? Considering a Norden 901 itself costs around $14,000, you’re spending nearly a third of the bike’s price on suspension alone. But if you’re a die-hard off-road enthusiast, it might just be worth every penny. After all, having the dopest Norden 901 around is priceless, especially with Chris Birch’s stamp of approval.
Why Go for the XPLOR PRO?
You might be wondering, “Why should I shell out this much for a suspension upgrade?” Well, if you’re serious about off-road riding, the difference is night and day. The XPLOR PRO setup transforms your bike’s handling, making it more responsive and capable on rough terrains. Plus, it’s not just about performance; it’s about confidence. Knowing your bike can handle whatever the trail throws at it lets you push your limits and truly enjoy the ride.
Installation and Compatibility
Worried about compatibility? Don’t be. The XPLOR PRO setup works for both the Norden 901 and the KTM 890 Adventure. So, if you see both models listed when ordering, that’s why. Installation is straightforward, but unless you’re a seasoned mechanic, you might want to let the pros handle it. After all, we’re talking about precision engineering here.
Real-World Impact
Let’s hear it from the riders themselves. Those who’ve made the switch to XPLOR PRO rave about the improvement. The bike feels more planted, the suspension absorbs bumps like a dream, and the overall ride quality is vastly improved. It’s not just marketing hype; the difference is tangible.
Conclusion: Is It Worth It?
At the end of the day, the decision to upgrade to WP’s XPLOR PRO setup depends on your riding style and priorities. If you’re an off-road junkie who lives for the thrill of conquering challenging terrains, this upgrade is a no-brainer. Yes, it’s pricey, but the performance boost and the confidence it provides are invaluable.
So, there you have it. The WP XPLOR PRO setup isn’t just an upgrade; it’s a game-changer. It takes the already impressive Norden 901 and elevates it to new heights. If you’re serious about off-road riding, don’t think twice. Embrace the upgrade, and get ready to unleash the beast within your bike. Happy riding!
