Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 Upgraded with Apollo Tramplr Tyres: Here’s Why

A tyre import ban has forced Bajaj to swap the fancy Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR for locally made Apollo Tramplr XR tyres on the new Husqvarna Svartpilen 401. The new Husqvarna model, equipped with Apollo Tramplr XR tires, is beginning to arrive at dealerships, replacing the original Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR dual-purpose tires.
The ban on importing specific tire sizes, if already produced locally, led Bajaj to opt for Apollo tires for the Husqvarna Svartpilen 401. While Apollo manufactures tires in the required size and specification, Bajaj was restricted from importing Pirelli tires for this model. However, the ban only affects OEMs, as private players can still import these tires in the aftermarket space.
This switch may disappoint enthusiasts who were looking forward to the performance of the Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 with the Pirelli dual-purpose tires. The Apollo Tramplr XR tires are considered more cost-effective, but the change does not reflect in a reduced price for the bike, as the premium Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires commanded a higher price.
The new regulation on tire imports raises concerns for other motorcycles using imported tires, like the KTM 390 Duke and RC 390 with Metzeler M5 Sportecs, and TVS Apache 310s with Michelin Road 5 tires. The government holds the authority to issue import licenses to manufacturers, indicating a shift in the decision-making process for importing tires in the automotive industry.