Hi Jason, I’m a long time KTM 525 EXC owner, and I just bought a Husky 701. Thanks for the great content, and I look forward to many more of your videos to come. You helped in me in making what I am sure will be a great choice. There were so many bikes to choose from.
I’m not sure. I haven’t done any research on the Rapidbike, but generally speaking I think if something was just as good, easier to instal, uninstall and just generally better, it would probably be a market leader.
I live in Colombia and looking for a great dual sport bike. You are a big guy I am a medium guy at about 5'10 and shrinking lol! We drive about an hour on twisties to get to the trails here. Do you think the bike would work for a guy my size with a shorter seat concept seat? From CO to Parker May this New Year be the best ever for you!
I line the 500 a lot also. For me, at 6’4” and around 240 lbs I like the extra size of the 701 but for trails like I just did in the San Juan mountains, I think the EXC would have been really cool. You know what they say, when in doubt, by another bike. 😂
Nice review I’ve had mine since 2022 but due to illness only done 150 miles here in the UK .I’m not fare from being able to start off-road riding again 🎉. With the power commander 5 do you still need to do the filter block off delete kit ect or leave it alone and just fit the power commander . I’ve subscribed as I think your style of video will help me a lot ,can you do a bolt on /taken off video if you haven’t already ( only just found your site ) 🏍🏍👍👍🎉🎉🎉
Thanks a bunch for subscribing, I greatly appreciate it. As I understand it you can plug in the PC 5 without making all the changes. You may get a check engine light, but Rottweiler also sells a dongle to turn off the light. Here is a link to the video I made on installing the air intake ua-cam.com/video/r8moRkvblck/v-deo.htmlsi=9jU2V4qH_j-49su4
Absolutely, here are the upgrades I made to the bike so far. 1. Tekmo header with Arrow exhaust 2. Power Commander VI 3 Dyno Auto Tune 4. Dirt Tricks 48 tooth rear sprocket 5. Super Lite front sprocket (stock 16 tooth) 6. DID gold chain 7. Vanashe Case Saver, Fuel filler, Foot pegs, shifter and brake pedal 8. BRP chain guide 9. Outback Motortech crash bars.
Certainly something to consider. However I’ve not heard of anyone actually needing a valve adjustment prior to 12000 miles. Not saying it doesn’t happen, I’ve just never heard of it. So if you are comfortable pulling the valve cover off to check them yourself you can save quite a bit of money.
@@upshiftingadventures4034 looking at forums it felt more like 50% needed adjustments, I'd feel comfortable stretching the intervals on a Yamaha, but on a KTM/husky, I'd rather follow the manual. I do the valves on my DR650 in 1h (including time to disassemble and reassemble, on this it seems like a 6h job…hydraulic valve lifters are so underrated (something my 1992 Honda Nighthawk had) :)
Great video Jason. I like so many others am a huge fan of the 500 exc. I’ve got a 15 500 exc which has been probably the best motorcycle I’ve owned in its class. Except for on the highway. I grew tired of not being able to go on longer trips with friends so I decided to get a 24 701 this last weekend. I did 200 miles on it in 2 days , and I really am enjoying it. It definitely needs a few modifications, but it seems to be exactly what I was after and more. Thanks for the great content.
A factor in bike choice I don't hear about much about in recent years is matching a riders height/size, and weight to the machine. I remember a couple decades ago listening to the old timers discuss the subject, and it was very common for their methodology to include your height/size, weight, and age in choosing a bike. I believe there is some merit in that ideology. For example, if you look at the 690/701 platform from a dirtbike and offroad perspective, someone your size at 6'4"/240lbs is well matched to the machine. Of course there are big people who ride small bikes, and lightweight riders who are extremely talented and perform amazing stunts on big machines. I suppose what I am getting at is while the 690/701 if often viewed as a light weight adventure bike, it could also just as easily be suited as a dirtbike for big dudes.
I totally agree. I just got back from Moab and ride my 701 on some pretty radical trails. It was much easier on the smaller bikes and some obstacles I wasnt able to complete but it was pretty capable overall.
I just bought a 2023 701 and the only thing I've added is Rally pegs. The one time I've tipped it over I thought it was pretty light to pick up. Then again I traded a KTM 1290 Super Adventure R in on it so that may be why it seems so light. Only 200 miles on it so far but I'm pretty happy with it other than I can't see past my shoulders with stock mirrors.
@@upshiftingadventures4034I generally agree - especially since they loaded up the tune to match my mods. I felt like the PC6 is out now - we’re not supporting that anymore from both companies.
I don’t really worry about torque too much. Biggest thing is to use some loctite so they don’t back out on the trail. If I had to guess, I’d say I used about 55 pounds.
The rear abs is not on on map 2 and on my bike it stays on maybe cause of the fuell dongle... map 2 also allows wheelies and by taking off the tc controll everything is off and the front abs is usable but that can be taken of aswell
I’d have to disagree with you. When I am in map 2 my ABS is definitely still on unless I turn it off manually. My understanding is that map 2 changes the ignition curve to make the bike more suitable for off road riding. Map 2 also allows for some front wheel lift off in order to get over small obstacles. Turning off traction control allows for tire spin so that the bike is cutting power while ascending gravel or looses dirt and such, and also disables wheelie control. I could be wrong, but this is what I’ve encountered on my 701
@@upshiftingadventures4034 Indeed I am still here. Did about 50 miles on my 690 yesterday. I laughed when you talked about the steering stabilizer. Ive had some close calls on I-25 with death wobble. I bought the BPR stabilizer last week.
If you want ABS and TC off all the time, the rear ABS sensor can be removed, it's sending wire neatly rolled up and zip tied and the whole thing tucked under the seat. This disables front and rear ABS and TC full time. While at it, do the same with the stupid kickstand sensor, if that gets damaged it will disable the bike with no way to fix it. There is a small magnet on the kickstand, I removed that and used a bigger magnet that is the size of the sensor itself to make sure. Duct taped and zip tied it securely together, it lives under the seat next to the ABS sensor 😂
None that I’ve noticed. I’m super happy with them. With the TKC 80’s I had a very spongy feeling when taking left hand turns. That cleared up with the 606’s
lol, I like the Nope. I have an ES 700. I agree for the most part. I hate the TC and electronics though since I ride a lot of hilly sand. My engine is also very noisy when I stop and restart for about 20 seconds. It's really weird. I'm told it has a hydraulic cam chain tensioner. I'm waiting to get my first 800 miles so I can have the dealer check it out at the first service. What handguards are you using if I may ask? I bought the Gas Gas ones and they are really kind of crappy. The plastics are held on with a wood screw. Kind of dumb if you ask me.
Great bike for sure. I replaced the factory flags with a set of Cycra hand guards and I’m really happy with them but if I have to do it again I’d probably go with the Barkbusters VPS guards.
@@upshiftingadventures4034ok thanks, I'll have to have my dealer check mine out then. If I go for a ride then stop or kill the bike and immediately start it. The engine after the restart is super loud for about 20-30 seconds and sounds like it's coming apart.
Thanks for the video! Excellent production and review. So I have a Husky FE 501S and a Yamaha Tenere 700. I live in Wyoming. My favorite riding at 53 years old is BDR’S, trails in the Big Horn Mountains, Riding Utah in places such as the White Rim Trail, Lockhart Basin, and similar trails. Next year, I am riding the entire Colorado BDR. I will likely take the T7 for part of it (80%) and the 501 for the technical passes (20%). Two weeks ago, I was down in Escalante, Utah and road the Hole in the Rock, the 80 miles of Smokey Mountain Road down to Big Water, and the Cottonwood Canyon Road. Seems like the 701 might be the best bike for my riding. I would appreciate your thoughts and opinions?
It seems like the 701 could replace both bikes and allow for easier logistics. Depending on your fitness level I’d say the 701 is just as good as the FE except a little heavier and if you have to pick it up a few times you might notice the difference. I’m 52 and don’t notice the weight while riding but certainly while picking it up. Fortunately I don’t find myself lifting it off the ground too often. I’ve taken the 701 on most of what you’ve listed and it never lets me down.
Love my 2023 690 , I’ve had several other dual sports and this is the king! Just got back from Colorado on the first of October, aspens we’re golden! The leaves here in the ozarks mountains should be peak in another week to 10 days
I have to agree with you, a great dual sportbike. I have 800 miles on my 2023, had it a month. So much fun on all surfaces and I am amazed what it will go thru and over. It handles everyrhing I find myself in which has been more than expected a number of times. And great at 60 to 70 when i need to get somewhere
Hi Jason, I’m a long time KTM 525 EXC owner, and I just bought a Husky 701. Thanks for the great content, and I look forward to many more of your videos to come. You helped in me in making what I am sure will be a great choice. There were so many bikes to choose from.
That’s great to hear. I’m glad I was able to help with decision. Let me know your thoughts once you’ve got some miles on it.
@@upshiftingadventures4034 Thanks again. I’ll do that.
Have you balanced your wheels ? Big difference on mine,I do it every tyre change,like butter after.
I haven’t done that but I will definitely give it a try on the next set of rubbers and see how it works out. Thanks for tip.
@@upshiftingadventures4034 it’s sweet !
4:50 Doesn't a Rapidbike EVO does the same as a PC6+Autotune, while being a snap to install and can be removed in 1 min of needed?
I’m not sure. I haven’t done any research on the Rapidbike, but generally speaking I think if something was just as good, easier to instal, uninstall and just generally better, it would probably be a market leader.
I agree with you about the gearing ! A bigger rear sprocket ✅
That seat is like divorce court. Painful!!
For sure. But the seat concepts seat fixes that right up
I live in Colombia and looking for a great dual sport bike. You are a big guy I am a medium guy at about 5'10 and shrinking lol! We drive about an hour on twisties to get to the trails here. Do you think the bike would work for a guy my size with a shorter seat concept seat? From CO to Parker May this New Year be the best ever for you!
Yes, I think it would be just perfect for you. If it is too tall with a new seat on it, you can always get a lowering link for it as well.
Wish I got this bike instead of a 2024 ktm 500excf 6days
I line the 500 a lot also. For me, at 6’4” and around 240 lbs I like the extra size of the 701 but for trails like I just did in the San Juan mountains, I think the EXC would have been really cool. You know what they say, when in doubt, by another bike. 😂
Such a cool bike! What's the difference between enduro vs supermoto 701?
The Super Moto is designed or setup for street riding
Nice review I’ve had mine since 2022 but due to illness only done 150 miles here in the UK .I’m not fare from being able to start off-road riding again 🎉. With the power commander 5 do you still need to do the filter block off delete kit ect or leave it alone and just fit the power commander . I’ve subscribed as I think your style of video will help me a lot ,can you do a bolt on /taken off video if you haven’t already ( only just found your site ) 🏍🏍👍👍🎉🎉🎉
Thanks a bunch for subscribing, I greatly appreciate it. As I understand it you can plug in the PC 5 without making all the changes. You may get a check engine light, but Rottweiler also sells a dongle to turn off the light. Here is a link to the video I made on installing the air intake ua-cam.com/video/r8moRkvblck/v-deo.htmlsi=9jU2V4qH_j-49su4
@@upshiftingadventures4034 thank you safe riding 👍
A parts list would be awesome if you had time sir. Nice video. Thanks.
Absolutely, here are the upgrades I made to the bike so far.
1. Tekmo header with Arrow exhaust
2. Power Commander VI
3 Dyno Auto Tune
4. Dirt Tricks 48 tooth rear sprocket
5. Super Lite front sprocket (stock 16 tooth)
6. DID gold chain
7. Vanashe Case Saver, Fuel filler, Foot pegs, shifter and brake pedal
8. BRP chain guide
9. Outback Motortech crash bars.
The 6000mile/10000km valve check is something to think about for someone who rides a lot, this can be 2 valve adjustements per year...
Certainly something to consider. However I’ve not heard of anyone actually needing a valve adjustment prior to 12000 miles. Not saying it doesn’t happen, I’ve just never heard of it. So if you are comfortable pulling the valve cover off to check them yourself you can save quite a bit of money.
@@upshiftingadventures4034 looking at forums it felt more like 50% needed adjustments, I'd feel comfortable stretching the intervals on a Yamaha, but on a KTM/husky, I'd rather follow the manual. I do the valves on my DR650 in 1h (including time to disassemble and reassemble, on this it seems like a 6h job…hydraulic valve lifters are so underrated (something my 1992 Honda Nighthawk had) :)
Great video Jason. I like so many others am a huge fan of the 500 exc. I’ve got a 15 500 exc which has been probably the best motorcycle I’ve owned in its class. Except for on the highway. I grew tired of not being able to go on longer trips with friends so I decided to get a 24 701 this last weekend. I did 200 miles on it in 2 days , and I really am enjoying it. It definitely needs a few modifications, but it seems to be exactly what I was after and more. Thanks for the great content.
Thanks so much. Awesome to hear. I hope you get many many miles of great riding on the 701.
A factor in bike choice I don't hear about much about in recent years is matching a riders height/size, and weight to the machine. I remember a couple decades ago listening to the old timers discuss the subject, and it was very common for their methodology to include your height/size, weight, and age in choosing a bike. I believe there is some merit in that ideology. For example, if you look at the 690/701 platform from a dirtbike and offroad perspective, someone your size at 6'4"/240lbs is well matched to the machine.
Of course there are big people who ride small bikes, and lightweight riders who are extremely talented and perform amazing stunts on big machines. I suppose what I am getting at is while the 690/701 if often viewed as a light weight adventure bike, it could also just as easily be suited as a dirtbike for big dudes.
I totally agree. I just got back from Moab and ride my 701 on some pretty radical trails. It was much easier on the smaller bikes and some obstacles I wasnt able to complete but it was pretty capable overall.
I just bought a 2023 701 and the only thing I've added is Rally pegs. The one time I've tipped it over I thought it was pretty light to pick up. Then again I traded a KTM 1290 Super Adventure R in on it so that may be why it seems so light. Only 200 miles on it so far but I'm pretty happy with it other than I can't see past my shoulders with stock mirrors.
Highway Dirtbikes handguards are the beefiest set you'll find, and have a trick flip out mirror option. You can kill two birds with one stone.
It would’ve been a unicorn if it was made by Honda or Suzuki
Hmm, not sure how maker would influence the status of the bike, but I think that it could certainly be called a Unicorn. Thanks for watching. Cheers.
Love mine - many of the same mods. I had the PC 5 and it failed so i removed it. Neither Rottweiler nor PC were willing to fix it.
That’s a bummer. I’ve had pretty good luck with mine. I’m surprised about Rottweiler, they usually have great customer service.
@@upshiftingadventures4034I generally agree - especially since they loaded up the tune to match my mods. I felt like the PC6 is out now - we’re not supporting that anymore from both companies.
Oil pressure light 😂
Great bike I have the super moto version ❤
Yeah, I am super happy with it.
Try Pirelli MT 21's , they are magic on and off road!
Good tip. Thanks, I’ll look in to those
When you installed the crash bars, do you recall the torque spec on the bolts? I have a set to install Thanks
I don’t really worry about torque too much. Biggest thing is to use some loctite so they don’t back out on the trail. If I had to guess, I’d say I used about 55 pounds.
I see 342 lbs wet, not over 400 lbs...
Yes indeed but I’m fairly sure I stated 400 loaded down with gear.
@@upshiftingadventures4034you carry 60 pounds of gear?
@beer3029 yeah. A lot.
@@beer302960lbs isn't a whole lot when you're traveling dude.
Its a good bike only if you dont put luggage on it.
Agree
Great vid! Mind if I ask who your suspension guy is?
Hitchcock industries in Denver
The rear abs is not on on map 2 and on my bike it stays on maybe cause of the fuell dongle... map 2 also allows wheelies and by taking off the tc controll everything is off and the front abs is usable but that can be taken of aswell
I’d have to disagree with you. When I am in map 2 my ABS is definitely still on unless I turn it off manually. My understanding is that map 2 changes the ignition curve to make the bike more suitable for off road riding. Map 2 also allows for some front wheel lift off in order to get over small obstacles. Turning off traction control allows for tire spin so that the bike is cutting power while ascending gravel or looses dirt and such, and also disables wheelie control. I could be wrong, but this is what I’ve encountered on my 701
@@upshiftingadventures4034 have readen my manual and have had the bike for 2years euro5
Just found your channel. I love my KTM 690 SMCR with knobbies. Its me, PATSOC.
What’s up bro. Of course it’s PATSOC, I knew as soon as I saw the handle 😂😂😂. Still in Colorado?
@@upshiftingadventures4034 Indeed I am still here. Did about 50 miles on my 690 yesterday. I laughed when you talked about the steering stabilizer. Ive had some close calls on I-25 with death wobble. I bought the BPR stabilizer last week.
@canklemedkits3772 be interested to hear what you think of the BPR
Can you completely dissable ABS both front and rear, or only the rear ABS?
Only the rear.
On my 2020 701 you can disable front and rear abs OR leave abs on for both. I added an abs dongle that allows me to disable rear abs only.
If you want ABS and TC off all the time, the rear ABS sensor can be removed, it's sending wire neatly rolled up and zip tied and the whole thing tucked under the seat. This disables front and rear ABS and TC full time.
While at it, do the same with the stupid kickstand sensor, if that gets damaged it will disable the bike with no way to fix it. There is a small magnet on the kickstand, I removed that and used a bigger magnet that is the size of the sensor itself to make sure. Duct taped and zip tied it securely together, it lives under the seat next to the ABS sensor 😂
Any issue with the front 606 ? Such as uneven ware.
None that I’ve noticed. I’m super happy with them. With the TKC 80’s I had a very spongy feeling when taking left hand turns. That cleared up with the 606’s
lol, I like the Nope. I have an ES 700. I agree for the most part. I hate the TC and electronics though since I ride a lot of hilly sand. My engine is also very noisy when I stop and restart for about 20 seconds. It's really weird. I'm told it has a hydraulic cam chain tensioner. I'm waiting to get my first 800 miles so I can have the dealer check it out at the first service. What handguards are you using if I may ask? I bought the Gas Gas ones and they are really kind of crappy. The plastics are held on with a wood screw. Kind of dumb if you ask me.
Great bike for sure. I replaced the factory flags with a set of Cycra hand guards and I’m really happy with them but if I have to do it again I’d probably go with the Barkbusters VPS guards.
@@upshiftingadventures4034 gotcha thanks. Any engine noise issues?
No, not really.
@@upshiftingadventures4034ok thanks, I'll have to have my dealer check mine out then. If I go for a ride then stop or kill the bike and immediately start it. The engine after the restart is super loud for about 20-30 seconds and sounds like it's coming apart.
Yeah, that’s probably not right 😂
What rear rack do you have installed?
I have the Tusk rack on mine. If you’re not familiar with them they are an in house brand of Rocky Mountain ATV MC. Made in America.
You sum it up well.
Thank you. I appreciate your watching the video.
Hell Yeah! I rode my 701 at Sand Flats, Moab (nothing flat about that place), and highways in between.
It’s an awesome ride! 🤘
I went down one tooth in the front and still rides smooth at 70 while giving a bit more pull at the bottom. I still get 55mpg.
Great video
Thanks. Really appreciate tgat
Thanks for the video! Excellent production and review. So I have a Husky FE 501S and a Yamaha Tenere 700. I live in Wyoming. My favorite riding at 53 years old is BDR’S, trails in the Big Horn Mountains, Riding Utah in places such as the White Rim Trail, Lockhart Basin, and similar trails. Next year, I am riding the entire Colorado BDR. I will likely take the T7 for part of it (80%) and the 501 for the technical passes (20%). Two weeks ago, I was down in Escalante, Utah and road the Hole in the Rock, the 80 miles of Smokey Mountain Road down to Big Water, and the Cottonwood Canyon Road. Seems like the 701 might be the best bike for my riding. I would appreciate your thoughts and opinions?
It seems like the 701 could replace both bikes and allow for easier logistics. Depending on your fitness level I’d say the 701 is just as good as the FE except a little heavier and if you have to pick it up a few times you might notice the difference. I’m 52 and don’t notice the weight while riding but certainly while picking it up. Fortunately I don’t find myself lifting it off the ground too often. I’ve taken the 701 on most of what you’ve listed and it never lets me down.
Love my 2023 690 , I’ve had several other dual sports and this is the king! Just got back from Colorado on the first of October, aspens we’re golden! The leaves here in the ozarks mountains should be peak in another week to 10 days
Fantastic. That’s the beauty of these bikes.
I have to agree with you, a great dual sportbike. I have 800 miles on my 2023, had it a month. So much fun on all surfaces and I am amazed what it will go thru and over. It handles everyrhing I find myself in which has been more than expected a number of times. And great at 60 to 70 when i need to get somewhere
Yup, it’s one hell of a bike