‘Head says Honda, heart says Husky’

At 26, I’m the closest to the A2 demographic in our road test trio. And my youthful palate had me leaning towards the Svartpilen before even swinging a leg over. It’s just different, and cool, and is undoubtedly the ultimate millennial machine. And despite initially disappointing, it grew on me throughout the test and come lunchtime I was ready to drop the flag and declare it the winner. However, while the Husqvarna brings the excitement factor with its peppy engine and agile chassis, it’s very much a one trick pony. The firm seat is insufferable before too long, and the lack of wind protection, combined with the upright riding position, leaves you exposed. The Honda, however, covers many bases – you could as comfortably commute year-round on it as you could strap on a tail bag and go for a tour. Reader Andi summarised it perfectly: “It’s easy to say that the Honda is boring to ride but it just gets on and does everything well. Nip to the shops or nip to France the CB will be happy. The 401 is a different animal, it makes you grin every ride. It reminds me of a 125cc two-stroke, you just thrash it everywhere and still aren’t going too far over the speed limit.”

And as for the BMW? I wouldn’t discount it if I was a nervous or short rider on a tight budget – it’s by far the gentlest, most reassuring and, at £4785, is a whole grand cheaper than the Honda.

LIKES

● Husqvarna is big on fun ● The Honda has the smoothest engine ● BMW badge has cachet and it’s good on back roads

DISLIKES

● Honda’s soft back end ● Husqvarna is a bit harsh if you have distance to cover ● The BMW runs out of puff if you want to keep up