Like big dogs… most big guys are very friendly. I’m a big guy… 5’-6” - 242 pounds, 13% body fat. I’m mean. It’s these motorcycle manufacturers doing… they purposely build every motorcycle I fall in love with, with a 3’ or taller seat height. I wish someone would tell them that these giants are like big dogs. I’m sure they must be afraid of them and these bike are all built as peace offerings…
I chose the 701 as the base bike for my ADV build... I have a heavyweight ADV bike (Ducati Multistrada) and love it but it's too heavy for more than light offroad. The 701 gives me a bike I can ride offroad with confidence yet is still quite comfortable on tarmac. I rode 2000 miles over 4 days last week in the Eastern US Mountains (60% onroad/40% offroad) and it was comfortable and VERY capable. This summer I'll be riding the Transamerica Trail (about 6000 miles on the trail and another 3000 or more getting to it and back) and this bike is IMO the perfect bike for that class of mixed tarmac/light/moderate offroad Adventure.
Probably the best review I've seen of this bike, great job! Husqvarna are working on their Norden 901 and I've heard they're also releasing it in a 700cc variant which should be using the same engine as this. Very exciting!
I've watched this video several times as I agonized over my next bike purchase. I started here with the 701LR, then became enthralled with the Yamaha T7 (put a deposit down), discovered the PR7 (put down a deposit after getting my other one back), and then sat on a Beta RRS 390 at the PR7 dealership and fell in love with it's power and weight (about 113kgs). Now, I"m back where I started with the 701LR. In a perfect world, I'd have a T7 for roads and easy trails, and the Beta for technical trails. The PR7, while a brilliant bike, isn't street legal in the US, and parts availability is a concern. Also, doing miles on the pavement, neither the PR7 (if I could get it plated) nor the Beta have ABS, which is a safety minus (I live in Seattle, which is like Scotland in the summer - rainy as hell). The 701 LR does both dirt and road well enough (if you truly need a windshield, get a car!) and has the motorcycle aesthetic I appreciate - it looks like a motorcycle. I know it has issues: clutch slave cylinder, electronics that can go awry, stock muffler will melt your gear, and maintenance is more costly than a Honda or Yamaha. Yet, it looks like a bike I could ride anywhere and still pick up after the 8th crash. The Honda 450L (now RL) is tempting, but it doesn't have ABS and it also needs some work to become truly quality (rather have the Beta then). Your sincere enthusiasm for the 701 mirrors my own after I sat on it. It just feels right to me, and bike taste is truly subjective. Thank you for your video!
Thanks for your buddy! Interesting story! For mainly technical trails we’re considering the GasGas EC300 but the 701 husky is a better road bike and all rounder
Ktm/husq did a wonderful job improving the 690. now you get superb suspensions, smooth engine with less vib, ( V4) and the ride by wire is very precise. Corner ABS is the ultimate safety. It is a very powerful bike but not a brutal one and it is very accessible for any driver. Pipe run hot so get a pant on it. the titanium akra save 5kg and had some nice still acceptable noise! Husky has a -3cm mod ( all spring change). The bike is easy on rocks and gravel and super stable on highway at 130 km/h. clutch is butter, brakes are super powerful. This is one of the most easier , predictable and versatile trail I drove ( compare to GS700/800 and KTM 750). Of course you have to appreciate minimalism and .....single cylinder! tractor noise, tractor power. So you can’t compare this one to any other one, it is unique in it’s league except of course it’s twin sister KTM690 2020 as it is now ( it was not ) similar. slight difference in fuel capacity . Last, the LR could be buy as an option for 2000€.
i have an 2018. Took them 3 years to recall it and finally fix the problem with faulty slave cylinder/clutch. Lost clutch summer 2018, 2019 and 2020. Could have asked for my money back but i love this bike too much.
Nice review. When i wanted a Husqvarna I was really in between this bike and the 501. The 701 seemed the more practical, but it is was wider in the front than the 501. Also there is the rear gas tank fill which seemed inconvenient if you had luggage strapped down. I'd rather be moving a tank bag for a petro fill-up. In the end, I went with my heart and I got the 501 to chuck about on the the single track trails. Bike is amazing, not great on paved roads, but that's not its primary duty. It easily out performs me and its worked perfectly on many 100+ mile enduro events. Just did a 400 mile camping trip on it, but you have to be careful about luggage weight limit. The 701 would be my choice for longer camping trips.
@@MrDarcy-OlMan also great job responding to all the comments! I really appreciate that your the same height as me which mades your reviews even more useful.
I really love my 2017 enduro model, it makes me smile every time I ride it. I'll be out on Sunday getting muddy and falling off, utterly brilliant bike and very easy to adapt as after market parts are easy to come by now. Had a KTM 990 Adventure before this which was a truly awesome machine, BUT a pig to control in the mud and heavy to pick up. The Husky 701 E is a better match for more technical stuff where you likely to go down, which is bound to happen - if your me !!!
I bought an LR back in may so I’ve had bit time to get a feel for it ,I’ve also owned the Ktm 690 r also .out of the 2 bikes this the one for me , it’s really easy bike to ride and comfortable , gearing is tall so not a lot of torque of the mark but this can fixed with a power commander , open up the air box , put on akropovic exhaust . Yep I love this bike
I've just sourced a 2020 701 LR in the UK with 4k spent on it including Rally tower with Baja Squadron lights. I think 10k for this beauty is worth every penny! Only 4k milage. I believe that there are only 27 registered in the UK.
Thanks for great review, the LR absolutely deserve it. When I first saw this being announced I sold every bike I had and preordered the LR. Reason why was that I felt like for the first time someone (being Husqvarna) built a factory motorcycle as a mix of the well known 690/701 and the GSA extra fuel capacity vehicle. And the first time I saw it out of the box, I’ll tell you the grin and the pure happy grunting laughter lasted for days! It’s not flawless tho, but it has so much great things going on that it really stands out from the rest. More about that on my channel, later... Done 12k km so far and I’m still greatly pleased to own one...
Great review, i've been looking mostly at the (205kg!) 2023 Tenere 700's but to get the suspension up to snuff (Ohlin's F/R), add what I want, gets it up close to €15k! I'm ~6' in my boots, 94kg. This bike brings me back to my Bultaco Alpina/Matador roots, my only concern was the 1+ hour motorway runs just to get to the TET here in Spain, sounds like this would work great. My ONLY concern is long term reliability and the dealer network here in Valencia.. Thanks!
I had a chance to buy a 2020 Husky 701 Long Range but it got sold right underneath my nose. Now, I can't find one anywhere! Having fun on a new DRZ400 though so I'm not in a huge rush.
I was thinking about it. Any issues arise so far? Do you have any problems with the bike? Maintenance, etc. What are negatives and positives of the 701?
@@You-Toober I put just over 300 miles on it so far and it's been great. Blindingly fast! Feels like it's 100 pounds lighter than my dr650 and it's much more responsive. You can't go wrong. Buy one!
@@enduro51x92 The problem in my situation is that there are no Husqvarna dealers close to me (in New York, U.S.). Japanese dealers are much more numerous here in the States. So if there's a problem, i don't have to go through hoops to get to them. And while some Japanese bikes have there problems, overall they are very reliable. I don't really know anything about Husqvarna. But it's good the bike is working out for you!
Congrats on the 701 supermoto! Question: Any issues come up? Ex. maintenance or mechanical? Is the bike expensive to own? If you still have it, how is the bike so far?
Another very good review thanks. Duel tanks for me would suggest it’s designed for long rides , in the UK green lanes of any length are getting rare but over seas I could see a bigger market. I prefer trials to scrambler rubber for duel road/green lane use I had a CZ and my goodness it was a rumble ride on the road with knobbles. Husky’s have always as you know being an old mud plugger had a good reputation and to be honest I can’t think of another machine with this usability . IMHO most bigger capacity adventure bikes are huge lumps and lean more to road riding more than for off road . This Husky looks closer to off road with on road ability hence the just enough lighting to meet the law layout.
@@MrDarcy-OlMan adventure bikes don't really make sense when you live in the UK, everything has been developed and cut down. great up here in canada where we have long highway rides to get to offroad.
0xsergy yes very true. Off road trails in the UK are few and far between, and are often closed with barriers anyway, to stop vehicles making ruts. The Ramblers Association and stupid councils are intent on eliminating motorcycles and 4x4’s from the countryside
If you're happy to spend the money, this bike is a superb platform for a full rally build which would make it an unbeatable practical RTW off-road oriented application.
Hi. Not sure why you would need a full rally build to RTW, looks pretty set up as is, apart from Barkbusters, proper bashplate and soft panniers and your away. That's all I needed when I went, spent 4 1/2 years travelling around the world on KTM 640 ADV 2003.
I just started gazing at this bike and I can't stop looking and learning more about it. The power to weight ratio is phenomenal. Is this the dual sport unicorn everyone is searching for? The 2022s are priced very high.
Great review, Really love this bike. To pricey for my pocket right now , but who knows maybe one day. Awsome beard by the way. You get a sub for your possitive style. Good job.
I have used those Continental Twinduro semi on/off road tyres on my CCM Dual Sport and they work pretty well on dry green lanes and offer amazingly good road handling and grip on tarmac but they wear out very quickly and are rather expensive
I'm so annoyed they already discontinued this bike. Not all of us want the heavier parallel twin adventures. A lot of people are willing to sacrifice some power, for a bike they can pick up when they're out on their own. Me for one. But all the big singles have been taken from the EU market now (Suzuki DR, Kawasaki KLR...and so on). So it leaves you with the KTM 690 and standard Husky 701. Great, but you have to fit a secondary tank etc, because they have no fuel range. Then it starts that 'well, I've modified it. Should I tell my insurance' hassle. The 701 LR was perfect. It was the bike loads of people are trying to modify from the standard 701, without the agro! I'd have had one if it's still been here. Why did they pull it after like 1 year?? it's not even like they didn't sell many, so why keep making it...they still make the 701! They just had to mould a few extra fuel tank and the 701 LR could stay in the line up for customer choice. Why did they go to the effort if making a bike which everyone is making themselves, then pull it before anyone had chance to buy it? Please explain
I have one. I've been told they only made 500 bikes in total worldwide, just to get the front tank approved on a registered model. This way Husqvarna/KTM is the only company who can sell aftermarket fuel tanks legally, due to much stricter EU regulations coming (fuel spills due to overfilling and heating up). If this is right, I expect my 701LR to become a collector's item.
Such a shame this was discontinued, I was starting to think about one. This was the best possible "adventure" bike choice for people that actually get their bikes dirty. I can only hope they have a ultra lightweight (300lb/136kg) smaller displacement model (40 hp) coming with great suspension, cushy seat and a HUGE tank.
Great review thanks, I have a KTM 790 Adventure R which I love BUT having just returned from an off road trip I found its limits unfortunately this bike looks to be the answer providing it can be fitted with soft luggage which will be essential.
I'd like the 701SM. I like the jacket. I used to have a Bikers' Gearbox [remember them?] jacket just like this. I wish I hadn't sold it. Replaced it with a Crowtree Lancer 18 years ago. Still got it. I wonder if these Huskies are reliable.
Terrific review and praise for a great adv ready bike👍 . My biggest issue is simply it's not made in Japan. My lose I guess, but it's hard to feel confident with many Euro bikes....
The 690 cm3 engines exist since 2007, they are not known as fragile. I rode 35000 km on a '08 690 Enduro, now i ride a 2015 690 Enduro-R and i' ve had no problem at 36000 km.
Gotta agree Mid Coast, my 15yr old kdx still hauls my old ass through the trails and has seen many KTM, sherco, husky, gas-gas, etc fall by the wayside.
Sounds silly but I could of had a 690ktm enduro R but was so worried it would get stolen I never bothered I got a BMW F800gs instead it just draws much less attention to itself. Even my Honda XR250R gets loads of interest. Have got black exel rims all new plastics and the frame is powder coated blue chrome metallic. Got a full rebuild to as new condition
@@MrDarcy-OlMan had too do it really it's a 1996 first year oil in frame model. The wheels had rotted through and the frame had rust patches and the rear subframe was going to be beyond repair before long. Even got my own tank decals made after re spraying using Google images and coral draw made a big batch in blue and red versions.sold a load on e-bay at a good profit. £2 to print £30 a set
Thank you for your reviews. Because you’ve tested both the 790R and this 701, how does the 701 compare for vibrations in the handle bars and noise level? Thank you.
I could not agree more, only HE MAN could deal with a massive advevture bike off road. I have been dreaming of winning the lottery and buying 2 LR701's and dropping them off at my mates house in Wales where we can ride them almost anywhere. The locals in Sussex would be calling the police as I turned off up a bridal path
It would be great if you could compare all three of the bikes that use this engine: the vitpilen, Svartpilen, and this husqvarna 701. It seems like an engine that makes incredible power for its weight but for some reason never got popular. I have a Africa Twin and Yamaha tw200 and this one bike seems to be the way to combine the best of both of those bikes with exception of two-up riding. Anyone have experience riding with a pilion?
Holy license plate batman! I really want this bike! I doubt parts for them will be around anywhere I will be. And also I don't know I need a 12000 dollar bike.
6000 mi between oil change... WOW... I'm in Glendale Arizona USA we do 3,000 for obvious reasons... Great stuff mate thanks for posting... Now I'm really in a quandary what bike I want LMAO.
Nice report! Thinking of purchasing one very soon. I'm looking at a 2018 model which does not have the extra crankshaft balanser. Do you know anything about it? I saw on another video on youtube that the counter balanser came on the later models. The earlier bikes didn't have it. He compared it even to an electric mc. The difference is quite noticeable it was said . I just wondered if you knew anything about it. Thanks!!
I preferred it. It's way better balanced and poised off road. The KTM was lovely on road, probably better in that respect, but the Husky was so much more fun.
Great review, many thanks. Did you take it on the motorway? If so was it hard work with comfort, lack of wind protection, gearing etc. I currently have a 2017 Africa twin DCT and a recently purchased yamaha tenere 700 and thinking of changing for this/ktm 690 enduro r.
Thanks John! Yes I rode it a few miles on the carriageway and it was very stable. The gearing was good at 70, obviously no wind protection but that just adds bulk imo. I totally loved this bike! Best one I’ve ridden all year hands down
I own a BMW R1200GSA and a Suzuki DR650. You really wont enjoy the 690 Enduro more than an hour at 70mph or more. There is zero wind protection, less than your T700, far less than the Africa Twin. But...keep it at 55-60mph and it is not too bad. We all have different needs for wind protection.
Thanks for the great review! One question: I'm 6,4ft (194cm) in height and wonder if this bike will suit me? Currently riding a XT 660 R which is perfect for me, but the lack of ABS on the roads is getting increasingly more concerning with every near-crash experience haha
I love the passion about this bike. I can tell how much you like this bike. I have a very silly stupid question, you mentioned that this bike has a map to be used for A2 license. I don't have any British license, so I have to start with CBT. I am too big and tall to go on a 125CC. Do you know if I can get something big and limit the power to be legal for 125cc?
I’m afraid you can’t, you can sinply do your cbt on a 125cc provided by the instructor. And then do your A license test straight after assuming you’re over the age of 24.
@@MrDarcy-OlMan Thank you. With COVID there is no availability for booking theory tests or DAS. So I guess I have to stick to 125cc until things changes.
Great review I am thinking of buying one very soon. I am about 5'9'' and think I can get away with the seat height just about. I guess if not I can get the lowering kit or maybe and aftermarket seat concepts will be slightly lower. Wondering too if the non LR version is lower. Anyone know if the bike comes with rear pegs and grab rails? I heard they do but most dealers don't fit them. Also any idea whether these sell for list or a discount in the UK? I see 690r's at discounts so wondered.
PS it now has a sort of "Drehzahlmesser" its really just a bunch of 8s on the this play.. like if you rev up it willl be: 8888 and then start to blink if you rev it too high :D
I did not think that the engine with a stressed member of the frame. I absolutely love the engine, but I am neither a fan of on-road nor off-road bikes using the engine as a stressed element.
Good video man !! I love this bike and i hope buy one , I live in México, so do you think that is a good bike to make a Trip until Alaska ???? Maybe would be 80% asfalt and 20 % off road round trip . Your point of view is very importante for me !! Thanks brother 👍🏻😎
The Himalayan is a good trail bike but I wouldn’t ride 100 miles on the motorway with it (despite Itchy thingy). This is something else! The seat felt fine tbh but it would need time to really tell 👍
@@MrDarcy-OlMan i'll tell you this much, it's far less viby at redline at 135 than my current DR650. and the dr650 has no vibes compared to the 690r. still my favourite highway cruiser, great bike if you're not looking for a ton of power.
1:29 into video, 67 mpg is not true. I have been ridning this for 2 years and in moderate speed in the forest/gravel roads its more like 47 mpg, not 67 mpg. Otherwise great video!
Great review, well spoken and summed up very well. Standard set up pretty good. A seat concepts seat or sunshine coast comfort seats be good. This would be my type of bike, some pannier frames, better seat, windscreen, 5/5 . Thanks
@@MrDarcy-OlMan weight wise its a winner. Plenty of power to satisfy the hunger of big bore bikes thru the trails and relax abit where sirens are. My mate has the 690, great bike but my 03 525 has more aggression. I love the aggression and not so tall gears. Mite test ride a demo of these. The big adventure bikes are nice but heavy in technical terrain. Thanks for the reply
I just read here that they're discontinuing? What the heck. Anyway, after a year and a bit in how is the bike and your opinion? Any quirks or surprises?
Gotta tell you the first thing that your going to want to do is remove and replace that cannister of a muffler unless you enjoy burning yourself on a muffler that gets hot enough yo just about light paper on fire, besides the damn thing weighs a ton!. Get a good aftermarket muffler from Arrow for about $350. U.S Dollars and enjoy better sound, a bit more power and best of all a muffler that let's the heat out and does not get a million degrees hot, the stock piece of shit is actually a catalytic convertor that is designed to run blistering hot, hot enough that very soon on your plastics will begin to melt and you will be imprinting life long scares from getting burned so switch it out as soon as you get the bike like I did and enjoy a better free flowing exhaust system that runs much much cooler!.
The LR's discontinued and there are very few enduro models on sale in the UK; not sure if those same extra tanks are available for retro fitting. With a decent screen, the 701/690 is the closest thing to a unicorn.
I never thought that anyone physical stature could match the height of the bike I would stilts or watch where u started and stopped on it but I think I still want one I could probably add some extra sag to the bike
So this is what Santa Claus does in the off season. I always wondered.
Haha yes
I’d say more Viking DNA than old Saint Nick...I see him holding a battle ax more than a sack of toys
@@robertpowers1045 n̊j̊ůs̊ůs̊i̊i̊
@@MrDarcy-OlMan ůj̊j̊ẘj̊ẘj̊ẘj̊k̊q̊k̊ẘk̊k̊ẘj̊j̊1̊j̊1̊i̊i̊i̊q̊i̊q̊i̊ẘk̊ẘk̊j̊ẘj̊i̊ẘi̊q̊i̊i̊1̊i̊ẘi̊ẘj̊j̊2̊i̊8̊q̊i̊q̊i̊q̊i̊
@@robertpowers1045 n̊n̊n̊ g̊ů h̊p̊ d̊o̊o̊ ůt̊ůt̊ẙ9 ẙů h̊h̊7̊k̊h̊f̊p̊ g̊p̊
The villagers must be scared shitless when this badass viking dude comes riding into their town!
Haha maybe 💪🏻💪🏻
Like big dogs… most big guys are very friendly. I’m a big guy… 5’-6” - 242 pounds, 13% body fat. I’m mean. It’s these motorcycle manufacturers doing… they purposely build every motorcycle I fall in love with, with a 3’ or taller seat height. I wish someone would tell them that these giants are like big dogs. I’m sure they must be afraid of them and these bike are all built as peace offerings…
Jesus ....the 14th Warrior, we found him and he does bike reviews!
You dwarf this large motorcycle. Never seen a man make a big bike look like a 80cc motocrosser like it. I enjoy your videos. Thanks.
Yes most bikes are too small tbh
I chose the 701 as the base bike for my ADV build... I have a heavyweight ADV bike (Ducati Multistrada) and love it but it's too heavy for more than light offroad. The 701 gives me a bike I can ride offroad with confidence yet is still quite comfortable on tarmac. I rode 2000 miles over 4 days last week in the Eastern US Mountains (60% onroad/40% offroad) and it was comfortable and VERY capable. This summer I'll be riding the Transamerica Trail (about 6000 miles on the trail and another 3000 or more getting to it and back) and this bike is IMO the perfect bike for that class of mixed tarmac/light/moderate offroad Adventure.
Awesome 💯👍🏼
It took me three years.. but I eventually bought one (not the LR version ) ..it’s bloody fantastic.
Your enthusiasm for it was well judged
Great sound. Great review as always.
hellride Thanks! What a bike! 👊🏼
@@MrDarcy-OlMan what a bike. What a ride indeed.
Probably the best review I've seen of this bike, great job!
Husqvarna are working on their Norden 901 and I've heard they're also releasing it in a 700cc variant which should be using the same engine as this. Very exciting!
Thanks buddy 👍🏼 That sounds great
I've watched this video several times as I agonized over my next bike purchase. I started here with the 701LR, then became enthralled with the Yamaha T7 (put a deposit down), discovered the PR7 (put down a deposit after getting my other one back), and then sat on a Beta RRS 390 at the PR7 dealership and fell in love with it's power and weight (about 113kgs). Now, I"m back where I started with the 701LR. In a perfect world, I'd have a T7 for roads and easy trails, and the Beta for technical trails. The PR7, while a brilliant bike, isn't street legal in the US, and parts availability is a concern. Also, doing miles on the pavement, neither the PR7 (if I could get it plated) nor the Beta have ABS, which is a safety minus (I live in Seattle, which is like Scotland in the summer - rainy as hell). The 701 LR does both dirt and road well enough (if you truly need a windshield, get a car!) and has the motorcycle aesthetic I appreciate - it looks like a motorcycle. I know it has issues: clutch slave cylinder, electronics that can go awry, stock muffler will melt your gear, and maintenance is more costly than a Honda or Yamaha. Yet, it looks like a bike I could ride anywhere and still pick up after the 8th crash. The Honda 450L (now RL) is tempting, but it doesn't have ABS and it also needs some work to become truly quality (rather have the Beta then). Your sincere enthusiasm for the 701 mirrors my own after I sat on it. It just feels right to me, and bike taste is truly subjective. Thank you for your video!
Thanks for your buddy! Interesting story! For mainly technical trails we’re considering the GasGas EC300 but the 701 husky is a better road bike and all rounder
I absolutely love your reviews. Great quality and professionalism. Keep it up, and safe riding✌😊
Thanks very much indeed 👍🏼
Ktm/husq did a wonderful job improving the 690. now you get superb suspensions, smooth engine with less vib, ( V4) and the ride by wire is very precise. Corner ABS is the ultimate safety. It is a very powerful bike but not a brutal one and it is very accessible for any driver. Pipe run hot so get a pant on it. the titanium akra save 5kg and had some nice still acceptable noise! Husky has a -3cm mod ( all spring change). The bike is easy on rocks and gravel and super stable on highway at 130 km/h. clutch is butter, brakes are super powerful. This is one of the most easier , predictable and versatile trail I drove ( compare to GS700/800 and KTM 750).
Of course you have to appreciate minimalism and .....single cylinder! tractor noise, tractor power. So you can’t compare this one to any other one, it is unique in it’s league except of course it’s twin sister KTM690 2020 as it is now ( it was not ) similar. slight difference in fuel capacity .
Last, the LR could be buy as an option for 2000€.
francois karm Excellent points Francois! What bike do you ride? 👍
It's my dream motorcycle, simple as that
i have an 2018. Took them 3 years to recall it and finally fix the problem with faulty slave cylinder/clutch. Lost clutch summer 2018, 2019 and 2020. Could have asked for my money back but i love this bike too much.
Oh no!
Nice review. When i wanted a Husqvarna I was really in between this bike and the 501. The 701 seemed the more practical, but it is was wider in the front than the 501. Also there is the rear gas tank fill which seemed inconvenient if you had luggage strapped down. I'd rather be moving a tank bag for a petro fill-up. In the end, I went with my heart and I got the 501 to chuck about on the the single track trails. Bike is amazing, not great on paved roads, but that's not its primary duty. It easily out performs me and its worked perfectly on many 100+ mile enduro events. Just did a 400 mile camping trip on it, but you have to be careful about luggage weight limit. The 701 would be my choice for longer camping trips.
toltod Very interesting story; thanks! I get your points; well summed up 👊🏼
@@MrDarcy-OlMan also great job responding to all the comments! I really appreciate that your the same height as me which mades your reviews even more useful.
toltod no problem bro 👍🏼
I really love my 2017 enduro model, it makes me smile every time I ride it. I'll be out on Sunday getting muddy and falling off, utterly brilliant bike and very easy to adapt as after market parts are easy to come by now. Had a KTM 990 Adventure before this which was a truly awesome machine, BUT a pig to control in the mud and heavy to pick up. The Husky 701 E is a better match for more technical stuff where you likely to go down, which is bound to happen - if your me !!!
Julian Clayton We agree 100% Ride safe; ride muddy 👊🏼
I bought an LR back in may so I’ve had bit time to get a feel for it ,I’ve also owned the Ktm 690 r also .out of the 2 bikes this the one for me , it’s really easy bike to ride and comfortable , gearing is tall so not a lot of torque of the mark but this can fixed with a power commander , open up the air box , put on akropovic exhaust . Yep I love this bike
roy munn Excellent! Yes I thought it perhaps needed a lower 1st gear for chugging along over very rough ground. Superb bike
How is it on interstate? What speed does it comfortably cruise at? Debating on 790r or 701LR to replace 1190 adv.
Rein Hart I had it at cruising speed and it was fine.
I've just sourced a 2020 701 LR in the UK with 4k spent on it including Rally tower with Baja Squadron lights. I think 10k for this beauty is worth every penny! Only 4k milage. I believe that there are only 27 registered in the UK.
Wow really! 👍🏼
utterly superb video sir.
Thanks for posting
hey bro that is a wonderful review.thank you so much..
Glad you liked it!
Really wasnt expecting such glowing performance from what I would consider as a premium but outlier brand
Yes it’s very good indeed 👍🏼
Another top class review ☝🏻
Andrew Hills Thanks Andrew 👍
Thanks for great review, the LR absolutely deserve it.
When I first saw this being announced I sold every bike I had and preordered the LR. Reason why was that I felt like for the first time someone (being Husqvarna) built a factory motorcycle as a mix of the well known 690/701 and the GSA extra fuel capacity vehicle. And the first time I saw it out of the box, I’ll tell you the grin and the pure happy grunting laughter lasted for days!
It’s not flawless tho, but it has so much great things going on that it really stands out from the rest. More about that on my channel, later... Done 12k km so far and I’m still greatly pleased to own one...
Awesome! Yes we love it too. We will check out your videos too.
Great review, i've been looking mostly at the (205kg!) 2023 Tenere 700's but to get the suspension up to snuff (Ohlin's F/R), add what I want, gets it up close to €15k! I'm ~6' in my boots, 94kg. This bike brings me back to my Bultaco Alpina/Matador roots, my only concern was the 1+ hour motorway runs just to get to the TET here in Spain, sounds like this would work great. My ONLY concern is long term reliability and the dealer network here in Valencia.. Thanks!
I had a chance to buy a 2020 Husky 701 Long Range but it got sold right underneath my nose. Now, I can't find one anywhere!
Having fun on a new DRZ400 though so I'm not in a huge rush.
Enjoyed the review, thanks. This is an interesting bike that could be right up my alley.
AzMtnThumper Thank you! It’s a fabulous bike for sure
Love mine l only have the enduro but what a bike and good video ps wings exhaust is much better than the standard
Terry Atkins Awesome! Good to know about the exhaust 👍🏼
Ok this is a dreambike ! thought it would be a rough thumper but it seems very smooth. great review cheers mate.
Marco Habanero It certainly is! Thanks buddy
it is smooth AND powerfull, all depends on your right hand ;)
JCF69700 💯👊🏼
Best money I've ever spent! If your on the fence, BUY IT! I rode a DR650 for 10 years and the HUSQVARNA 701 blows it away in every category.
Yes absolutely. What a great bike 👍🏼👍🏼
Hahaha... Dr 650...
I was thinking about it.
Any issues arise so far? Do you have any problems with the bike? Maintenance, etc.
What are negatives and positives of the 701?
@@You-Toober I put just over 300 miles on it so far and it's been great. Blindingly fast! Feels like it's 100 pounds lighter than my dr650 and it's much more responsive. You can't go wrong. Buy one!
@@enduro51x92 The problem in my situation is that there are no Husqvarna dealers close to me (in New York, U.S.). Japanese dealers are much more numerous here in the States. So if there's a problem, i don't have to go through hoops to get to them. And while some Japanese bikes have there problems, overall they are very reliable. I don't really know anything about Husqvarna.
But it's good the bike is working out for you!
Really enjoyed this review!
Mark Rivers Thanks Mark 👍🏼
Great review. Just picked up a 701 super moto and I also have a husky fc350 track bike as well
Thanks! That’s a good garage!
MrDarcy & the Ol'Man great channel man. Very underrated!!! you should have a few million subs.
King Vlx Thanks! Slowly but surely 👍🏼
Congrats on the 701 supermoto!
Question: Any issues come up? Ex. maintenance or mechanical? Is the bike expensive to own?
If you still have it, how is the bike so far?
Another very good review thanks.
Duel tanks for me would suggest it’s designed for long rides , in the UK green lanes of any length are getting rare but over seas I could see a bigger market.
I prefer trials to scrambler rubber for duel road/green lane use I had a CZ and my goodness it was a rumble ride on the road with knobbles.
Husky’s have always as you know being an old mud plugger had a good reputation and to be honest I can’t think of another machine with this usability .
IMHO most bigger capacity adventure bikes are huge lumps and lean more to road riding more than for off road .
This Husky looks closer to off road with on road ability hence the just enough lighting to meet the law layout.
Lee B Yes I agree 100% with your points. I’m not keen on adventure bikes really, but this has got unique qualities
@@MrDarcy-OlMan adventure bikes don't really make sense when you live in the UK, everything has been developed and cut down. great up here in canada where we have long highway rides to get to offroad.
0xsergy yes very true. Off road trails in the UK are few and far between, and are often closed with barriers anyway, to stop vehicles making ruts. The Ramblers Association and stupid councils are intent on eliminating motorcycles and 4x4’s from the countryside
If you're happy to spend the money, this bike is a superb platform for a full rally build which would make it an unbeatable practical RTW off-road oriented application.
Keyboard Dancers Yes you could be right 👍🏼💯
Hi. Not sure why you would need a full rally build to RTW, looks pretty set up as is, apart from Barkbusters, proper bashplate and soft panniers and your away. That's all I needed when I went, spent 4 1/2 years travelling around the world on KTM 640 ADV 2003.
@@dereckrandell2458 Icing on the cake!
Dereck Randell That’s an impressive tour! 👍🏼
I hear a 401 is in the works. I hope they offer it as a LR too. Thx for your review.
Mark Phipps Yes that would be nice! We appreciate your support 👍
Awesome review chaps 👍🏻
Thanks buddy 👍
Excellent review. Very thorough.
Thanks David. Much appreciated.
This bike is insane
Yes it’s awesome!
Pity HQ couldn't have concealed the brake pipes behind the headlight instead of them flapping about above the speedometer... Nice review BTW.
Yes that’s true for most bikes I guess. Thanks for the support! 👍💯
I just started gazing at this bike and I can't stop looking and learning more about it. The power to weight ratio is phenomenal. Is this the dual sport unicorn everyone is searching for? The 2022s are priced very high.
It’s got the feeling of a proper enduro with the longer legs for the road
Great review, Really love this bike. To pricey for my pocket right now , but who knows maybe one day. Awsome beard by the way. You get a sub for your possitive style. Good job.
Thanks buddy! Welcome aboard
I have used those Continental Twinduro semi on/off road tyres on my CCM Dual Sport and they work pretty well on dry green lanes and offer amazingly good road handling and grip on tarmac but they wear out very quickly and are rather expensive
Yes that’s the trouble with knobblies.
I'm so annoyed they already discontinued this bike. Not all of us want the heavier parallel twin adventures. A lot of people are willing to sacrifice some power, for a bike they can pick up when they're out on their own. Me for one. But all the big singles have been taken from the EU market now (Suzuki DR, Kawasaki KLR...and so on). So it leaves you with the KTM 690 and standard Husky 701. Great, but you have to fit a secondary tank etc, because they have no fuel range. Then it starts that 'well, I've modified it. Should I tell my insurance' hassle. The 701 LR was perfect. It was the bike loads of people are trying to modify from the standard 701, without the agro! I'd have had one if it's still been here. Why did they pull it after like 1 year?? it's not even like they didn't sell many, so why keep making it...they still make the 701! They just had to mould a few extra fuel tank and the 701 LR could stay in the line up for customer choice. Why did they go to the effort if making a bike which everyone is making themselves, then pull it before anyone had chance to buy it? Please explain
I honestly didn’t know this till I just read your post. I really don’t know why. Perhaps to get people to choose the new adventure bike. Shame really.
I have one. I've been told they only made 500 bikes in total worldwide, just to get the front tank approved on a registered model. This way Husqvarna/KTM is the only company who can sell aftermarket fuel tanks legally, due to much stricter EU regulations coming (fuel spills due to overfilling and heating up).
If this is right, I expect my 701LR to become a collector's item.
Such a shame this was discontinued, I was starting to think about one. This was the best possible "adventure" bike choice for people that actually get their bikes dirty. I can only hope they have a ultra lightweight (300lb/136kg) smaller displacement model (40 hp) coming with great suspension, cushy seat and a HUGE tank.
I’m buying one soon waiting for my taxes then I’m pulling the pin . Thankyou for the review
Awesome! It’s a great bike!! 👍🏼💯
Great review thanks, I have a KTM 790 Adventure R which I love BUT having just returned from an off road trip I found its limits unfortunately this bike looks to be the answer providing it can be fitted with soft luggage which will be essential.
Thanks buddy! There is a luggage option isn’t there. Great bike
I like that it has 2 tanks. Good review 👍.
Nathan Henry Yes it’s pretty unique. You don’t even notice the rear tank! 👍🏼
You convinced me to buy one
Awesome 👍🏼
Great review!
Thanks Phil 👍🏼
I'd like the 701SM.
I like the jacket. I used to have a Bikers' Gearbox [remember them?] jacket just like this. I wish I hadn't sold it. Replaced it with a Crowtree Lancer 18 years ago. Still got it.
I wonder if these Huskies are reliable.
Haha yes! I think they’re pretty reliable from experience; they’ve been going a long time!
Great as usual, any comparison to the 690 enduro would be appreciated 🍻👍🏻👍🏻
Thanks buddy
I’d trade my wife and sister for one!!
The large side panels make it nice for packing soft bags
Joseph Winkler Send is a photo and we’ll see 🤣
Very good review.
Thank you
Ricardo Cuetara Thank you 👍🏼
Agree 100%. Absolutely love mine.
Awesome 👍🏼
Great video and wonderful motorbike. Thanks
Jesus Baltasar Muro Barroso Thanks Jesus! 💯👍🏼
Terrific review and praise for a great adv ready bike👍 . My biggest issue is simply it's not made in Japan. My lose I guess, but it's hard to feel confident with many Euro bikes....
Thanks bro! I wouldn't worry about the EU thing; they've been building dirtbikes for decades!
The 690 cm3 engines exist since 2007, they are not known as fragile. I rode 35000 km on a '08 690 Enduro, now i ride a 2015 690 Enduro-R and i' ve had no problem at 36000 km.
JCF69700 that’s good
Gotta agree Mid Coast, my 15yr old kdx still hauls my old ass through the trails and has seen many KTM, sherco, husky, gas-gas, etc fall by the wayside.
Sounds silly but I could of had a 690ktm enduro R but was so worried it would get stolen I never bothered I got a BMW F800gs instead it just draws much less attention to itself. Even my Honda XR250R gets loads of interest. Have got black exel rims all new plastics and the frame is powder coated blue chrome metallic. Got a full rebuild to as new condition
Chris Hart Haha that’s an interesting reason for getting a bike! Sounds like good mods 👊🏼
@@MrDarcy-OlMan had too do it really it's a 1996 first year oil in frame model. The wheels had rotted through and the frame had rust patches and the rear subframe was going to be beyond repair before long. Even got my own tank decals made after re spraying using Google images and coral draw made a big batch in blue and red versions.sold a load on e-bay at a good profit. £2 to print £30 a set
Chris Hart brilliant! 80’s/90’s bikes seem to be fetching good money these days
excellent review - I want one!! thank you
Thanks! Yes what a bike!
Very informative review.
Cool looking bike- good review
indi skies Thank you! Yes great machine!
Thank you for your reviews. Because you’ve tested both the 790R and this 701, how does the 701 compare for vibrations in the handle bars and noise level? Thank you.
I didn’t particularly notice any vibrations but the Husky being single cylinder would be more so.
Nice bike. Thanks for vid!
I love this bike! Thanks buddy 👍🏼
Coming from a T7 at almost 5’8’” … still very tempting.
Yea it’s awesome
Ha, I love my Roland Sands jacket wax cotton. Good on ya Brother!!
👍🏼👍🏼💪🏻
Just found your channel, good review.
Welcome aboard! Thanks buddy
Husty 250 4 stoke has 2 rider Rider modes is sudible for any thing you throw at it . Job done .
Yes! Nice and simple!
Question it, would you take it down the motorway with bags and a weeks worth of luggage?
darkiee69 That’s a good question and everyone will have a different answer. It has optional extra paniers so yes is the answer, 👍🏼
@@MrDarcy-OlMan My question was more directed toward Roland and his 250.
I have no doubt that the 701 will do it without any problems.
@@darkiee69 OK sorry bro I didn't read the thread
nice review. With some mods that bike is the real do it all
It sure is
Great bike with a great sound...
Wise comments.
Thank you kindly! It's simply awesome!
I could not agree more, only HE MAN could deal with a massive advevture bike off road. I have been dreaming of winning the lottery and buying 2 LR701's and dropping them off at my mates house in Wales where we can ride them almost anywhere. The locals in Sussex would be calling the police as I turned off up a bridal path
It would be great if you could compare all three of the bikes that use this engine: the vitpilen, Svartpilen, and this husqvarna 701. It seems like an engine that makes incredible power for its weight but for some reason never got popular. I have a Africa Twin and Yamaha tw200 and this one bike seems to be the way to combine the best of both of those bikes with exception of two-up riding. Anyone have experience riding with a pilion?
Holy license plate batman!
I really want this bike!
I doubt parts for them will be around anywhere I will be.
And also I don't know I need a 12000 dollar bike.
Yes what a bike! 💯👍🏼👍🏼
I like the bike, but the muffler sound is ridicolous: prrrt, prrrrt. Also there is some extra mechanical noise, IMO (at 13:17)
Yes absolutely fabulous bike. It would be better with a different end-can for sure.
6000 mi between oil change... WOW... I'm in Glendale Arizona USA we do 3,000 for obvious reasons... Great stuff mate thanks for posting... Now I'm really in a quandary what bike I want LMAO.
Yea pretty good for an enduro! Haha good luck 👍🏼
@@MrDarcy-OlMan Thanks for taking the time to get back to me... Stay safe, Stay well
It looks great, but how do you strap any luggage to it? Is there an optional backpack for that purpose?
Yes they do an accessory side bag set and carrier. 👍🏼
Nice report! Thinking of purchasing one very soon. I'm looking at a 2018 model which does not have the extra crankshaft balanser. Do you know anything about it? I saw on another video on youtube that the counter balanser came on the later models. The earlier bikes didn't have it. He compared it even to an electric mc. The difference is quite noticeable it was said
. I just wondered if you knew anything about it. Thanks!!
Good choice! Sorry we haven't experience of the older model but it will probably have more vibration being such a big cylinder
@@MrDarcy-OlMan Thanks !
@danielhehir1 - only 2016’s had the older LC4. 2017+ has the updated motor. 1000rpm extra revs till redline, slightly less vibes and 7hp more.
@@zipdoa Yes, I have learned that now. The bike goes like a banshee. Power that never quits. Thanks for the reply :-)
How do you feel it compares to the KTM 790 just tested? Granted they are both different but they look like they are the best options for dirt.
I preferred it. It's way better balanced and poised off road. The KTM was lovely on road, probably better in that respect, but the Husky was so much more fun.
Have you heard of the AJP PR7? IMHO, it might be somewhat comparable to this Husky...
No but I'm looking now. It looks awesome! I'll see if we can get one.
Great review, many thanks. Did you take it on the motorway? If so was it hard work with comfort, lack of wind protection, gearing etc. I currently have a 2017 Africa twin DCT and a recently purchased yamaha tenere 700 and thinking of changing for this/ktm 690 enduro r.
Thanks John! Yes I rode it a few miles on the carriageway and it was very stable. The gearing was good at 70, obviously no wind protection but that just adds bulk imo. I totally loved this bike! Best one I’ve ridden all year hands down
@@MrDarcy-OlMan sounds great, only thing stopping me is the questionable reliability record..
@@jojitsu56 It will have a warranty so go for it!
I own a BMW R1200GSA and a Suzuki DR650. You really wont enjoy the 690 Enduro more than an hour at 70mph or more. There is zero wind protection, less than your T700, far less than the Africa Twin. But...keep it at 55-60mph and it is not too bad. We all have different needs for wind protection.
KTM 690 Enduro needs this model👍
Thanks for the great review! One question: I'm 6,4ft (194cm) in height and wonder if this bike will suit me? Currently riding a XT 660 R which is perfect for me, but the lack of ABS on the roads is getting increasingly more concerning with every near-crash experience haha
It’s about as big as bikes of the like come, although it’s not huge
@@MrDarcy-OlMan Thanks for the info! I'll have to give it a test ride I guess. Stay on top, cheers
I love the passion about this bike. I can tell how much you like this bike. I have a very silly stupid question, you mentioned that this bike has a map to be used for A2 license. I don't have any British license, so I have to start with CBT. I am too big and tall to go on a 125CC. Do you know if I can get something big and limit the power to be legal for 125cc?
I’m afraid you can’t, you can sinply do your cbt on a 125cc provided by the instructor. And then do your A license test straight after assuming you’re over the age of 24.
@@MrDarcy-OlMan Thank you. With COVID there is no availability for booking theory tests or DAS. So I guess I have to stick to 125cc until things changes.
@@jokage yes that’s true
When this guy referred to a 5’10’’ person as a shorter rider, my 5’5’’ ego was destroyed. Good review though.
Haha sorry! It’s all relative 👍🏼
Great review I am thinking of buying one very soon. I am about 5'9'' and think I can get away with the seat height just about. I guess if not I can get the lowering kit or maybe and aftermarket seat concepts will be slightly lower. Wondering too if the non LR version is lower. Anyone know if the bike comes with rear pegs and grab rails? I heard they do but most dealers don't fit them. Also any idea whether these sell for list or a discount in the UK? I see 690r's at discounts so wondered.
Great! You won't regret it. Check out the specs on Husqvarnas website and compare the two. Hopefully someone will know about the other points.
KTM has a loweringkit for the 690 Enduro, lowers it 4cm, the main reason I finally got the bike, I'm 172cm ;)
@@randersson3672 Thanks I will look into the kit.
Yes they come with rear pegs and grab bars but most people would remove those straight away.
@@Samuel_E81 Thanks Sam, I think they are dealer fit so can ask dealer whether or not to fit them on new bike once delivered.
i got me one :) can t wait until it finaly stands at the dealer! should be one more week... time goes slow
PS it now has a sort of "Drehzahlmesser" its really just a bunch of 8s on the this play.. like if you rev up it willl be: 8888 and then start to blink if you rev it too high :D
Awesome
Great! Good luck with that 💯
its very nice but that price a that seat height..oh well. I only have a 32 inch inseam on a good day so i stick with my beta alp 200.
It does compress quite a bit when you sit on it though
Reliable for long highway cruising with single cylinder ?
There’s no reason why not. Not as smooth as multiple cylinders but at sensible rpm it would be fine
I did not think that the engine with a stressed member of the frame. I absolutely love the engine, but I am neither a fan of on-road nor off-road bikes using the engine as a stressed element.
Pandemic Apocalypse Yes it’s quite common now. I get what you’re saying 👍🏼
Yea, don’t stress man.
Lower center of mass, higher ground clearance, lighter weight, better handling.
Harder to remove engine...
What's not to like?
Good Stuff, how's the vibes on the freeway? thanks
Thanks buddy! Not bad at all!
Great sound, looks a fun bike to ride 👍
Jo Jo Yes 100% 👍👍
Good video man !! I love this bike and i hope buy one , I live in México, so do you think that is a good bike to make a Trip until Alaska ???? Maybe would be 80% asfalt and 20 % off road round trip . Your point of view is very importante for me !! Thanks brother 👍🏻😎
Thanks buddy. Wow that’s a long way. It’s definitely a more off road focused bike but it would certainly do it.
@@MrDarcy-OlMan thanks friend !!!!!! 😎
Adventure, what about the RE Himalayan. And faults, that seat doesn't look good for 310 miles. Great review of a bike that's missed everyones radar.
The Himalayan is a good trail bike but I wouldn’t ride 100 miles on the motorway with it (despite Itchy thingy). This is something else! The seat felt fine tbh but it would need time to really tell 👍
@@MrDarcy-OlMan i'll tell you this much, it's far less viby at redline at 135 than my current DR650. and the dr650 has no vibes compared to the 690r. still my favourite highway cruiser, great bike if you're not looking for a ton of power.
0xsergy That’s good 👍🏼
A suggestion, for dirt riding you need much better boots than that.
Yes I know. I sold all my MX gear a while back and am slowly getting new stuff. 🤞
Nice review 👍
Thanks buddy 👍🏼
1:29 into video, 67 mpg is not true. I have been ridning this for 2 years and in moderate speed in the forest/gravel roads its more like 47 mpg, not 67 mpg.
Otherwise great video!
Official figures. Plus it’s in UK imperial gallons which differs from US gallons
Hello! What do you think about new Yamaha tenere?
Looks really nice! We haven't ridden it yet though but I'm sure it's good, having had Yamaha MX bikes in the past.
@@MrDarcy-OlMan is it possible to compare these two motorcycles or they are in different classes due to the weight of the Yamaha?
Deniss Rudniks We’d like to but Yamaha aren’t obliging at the moment
Is it showing the fuel? Or only light ? And what about the RPM?
Tbh I was so blown away at how good this bike was that I didn’t even look at the display!
MrDarcy & the Ol'Man thanks for reply 👍
Great review, well spoken and summed up very well.
Standard set up pretty good.
A seat concepts seat or sunshine coast comfort seats be good.
This would be my type of bike, some pannier frames, better seat, windscreen,
5/5 .
Thanks
Thanks my friend! Best bike I've ridden all year hands down!
@@MrDarcy-OlMan weight wise its a winner.
Plenty of power to satisfy the hunger of big bore bikes thru the trails and relax abit where sirens are.
My mate has the 690, great bike but my 03 525 has more aggression.
I love the aggression and not so tall gears.
Mite test ride a demo of these.
The big adventure bikes are nice but heavy in technical terrain.
Thanks for the reply
Muppet yes; I’m not keen on ‘adventure’ bikes because of the weight and road bias
@@MrDarcy-OlMan I agree, I will admit there alot better than sports bikes for long trips with all the carrying capacity though.
I just read here that they're discontinuing? What the heck. Anyway, after a year and a bit in how is the bike and your opinion? Any quirks or surprises?
Yes shame. I only had it for a few hours for the review so I can’t answer that question 👍🏼
Gotta tell you the first thing that your going to want to do is remove and replace that cannister of a muffler unless you enjoy burning yourself on a muffler that gets hot enough yo just about light paper on fire, besides the damn thing weighs a ton!. Get a good aftermarket muffler from Arrow for about $350. U.S Dollars and enjoy better sound, a bit more power and best of all a muffler that let's the heat out and does not get a million degrees hot, the stock piece of shit is actually a catalytic convertor that is designed to run blistering hot, hot enough that very soon on your plastics will begin to melt and you will be imprinting life long scares from getting burned so switch it out as soon as you get the bike like I did and enjoy a better free flowing exhaust system that runs much much cooler!.
Marti woodchip Yes I agree! Great advice
Grande máquina, like
sim muito
These bikes seem very rare not many for sale in the uk would like to take a look at one in the flesh
💯👍🏼
The LR's discontinued and there are very few enduro models on sale in the UK; not sure if those same extra tanks are available for retro fitting. With a decent screen, the 701/690 is the closest thing to a unicorn.
I'm pretty sold now - but it's not available in the States. Bugger!
Ronald Boe oh no that’s a shame ! What a bike!
They sell the kit to convert a regular 701 to the LR version, which may be an option for you.
Fall 2020 for USA.
Rein Hart great news!
I never thought that anyone physical stature could match the height of the bike I would stilts or watch where u started and stopped on it but I think I still want one I could probably add some extra sag to the bike
You can get a lowering kit for it actually 👍🏼