I have the same windshield. I moved it up so the bottom holes on the shield line up with the top holes in the fairing. Then drilled out on the sides and down about 3 inches lower than the lowest set of holes. It helped the wind grom shooting up my helmet.
Hi Ben, I had the exact same sentiments and surprise when I bought a 701 LR version some 6 months ago. To be honest and cut through the tape; all perfect specs on paper; weight, quality etc... but; it's too powerful -for me-. I wouldn't worry too much about longevity; 10k km oil change and a lot of clever modern engineering on a single cylinder (NO other manufacturer over the years has put in so much further R&D into a single)
Awesome bike, good move! A lot of what keeps me from heavily modifying my DR is the fact that I’d probably be paying more in total cost than I would if I just got the 701. I’m staying on the cheaper side of the mods until the OEM components are worn out.
I actually picked this up for a fairly reasonable price, but the DR is definitely the more sensible choice either way. Up until this point most of my bike choices have been reasonable, so I decided to finally go the other way. Can't say I'm disappointed so far!
If you want the best dual sport, 701/690 is unbeatable. The old DR doesn’t hold a candle to those two. I had a 2021 701 for two years and put 12000 miles on it without any issues. You won’t be disappointed.
in the UK the blue panel one has the old 690 engine without the second counterbalanced head. It's 67hp, not 74 and you need to check the rocker arms at every oil change and maybe even carry some with you as they go fast! mine collapsed 600 miles after the main dealer service at 6k where they actually checked the valve clearance.
That Husky looks like a whole lotta fun. Bought a new KLR last fall and have been watching the videos you post as i'm near you in Rapids and I"m sure I will end up on some of the same trails some day. 63 years old and I spent the last 40 years mostly on the highway so i'm looking forward to getting back into and playin in some dirt. Not sure if the KLR was the right choice but I have loved the 160 miles I put on it so far.
Holy Cow, Ben...a 701 Husky!! One of my fav bikes (that I do not own , LOL). Love to hear more about the professional lowering kit. Can't wait to see some ride videos this summer. Bike season is soon!
I've always sort of had them on my radar but didn't want to spend the money and wasn't sure Id be comfortable with such a tall seat. So when this popped up for a decent price and lowered, I couldn't pass it up! From what the previous owner said, the shop disassembled everything, did some cutting and swapping of internal parts and then the owner dropped the triple tree just a tad since they could only do so much internally on the front. I'm a little afraid it'll have a big impact on the awesome suspension these bikes have, but I doubt I'd be able to have the same confidence on it at stock height. We'll just have to wait and see! And I can't wait to test it out at Harrison Hills!!!
@@madbroindustries the only failure I have had was the clutch went out at 7k miles. Weak stock clutch springs. I have done preventative maintenance, clutch slave, fuel pump, fuel filters, valve check. Approaching 10k miles it runs perfect.
Nice choice! I’m picking up my 23 701 next week, I’m keeping my T7…. For now. Keen to see how much overlap there is and which one I end up choosing each time I head out. Love my T7, sure I’ll love the 701.
Nice video. Ya, the 701 was a bit of an adjustment process for me too. I have a '23 701. Added a Yosh can with Rottweiler's dongle and PC6 with their map. These run super lean down low and at part throttle where the rider spends most of their time. Post fueling and exhaust mods it pulls much stronger off idle, which is great when trail riding at low speeds or slowing down in a tall gear on the road. It used to lug below 50 in 6th, now it can smoothly jet off from 35 or so. Get the revs up and twist it's tail and ya better be hanging on, the power is stout, the quick shifter is awesome, and the exhaust note from the Yosh can is braapalicious 😆 Another good mod if the bike sees off road are wider pegs and a lower temp fan switch, as the stock pegs are much too narrow, which is more of a problem when riding off road and standing a lot, and the fan switch really lets it heat up when riding slow. It is better to just let the fan run a lot when riding off road, the charging system has no issue keeping up. It surprised me how good the XPLOR suspension is right off the showroom floor. After setting the sag and dialing the clickers I find it to be just fine. The springs and valving are no fooling around firm, with no typical dual sport mushiness. Out on the trail the suspension craves a load and it wants the rider to hit things at speed to make it move through it's stroke. I am an experienced dirt rider and I ride it like a dirt bike in some pretty challenging Colorado terrain at times. Ya gotta respect the bike's weight and that the TKCs aren't great in the dirt, but within it's parameters the 701 hauls the mail. I put a rim lock on the front wheel and am running a heavy tube and 21 PSI, that is much better in the dirt than higher pressures, but still high enough to protect the rim from rock damage. I don't worry about the rear too much, Mode 2, ABS and TC off, and let it spin to win. The TKC rear is getting trashed pretty fast. Speaking of TC off, I also put the "off road" dongle on it to remember the preferred map 2 and TC off settings after shut down. It still defaults to off road front ABS on, rear off, so I still have to turn the front ABS off every time while off road, but it is better than having to reset everything. These bikes aren't great for anything in particular, but they are able to do pretty much everything reasonably well, and they are just plain fun to ride. This big, fast, smooth and revvy thumper in a capable dual sport wrapper has a uniquely cool feel all its own.
I just bought a 2023 690 in January, love it so far, I’ve owned a bunch of different dual sports and just got rid of my Africa twin that I loved just to heavy off road, was a little worried about the Ktm from all the internet horror stories, people either love them or hate, so far loving the performance, great do all bike
@@SwankyCatProductions this will be my second year of T7 ownership, mostly country roads and commuting in SW Wi, a couple event trail rides at Sauk Prairie Rec Area in Baraboo. I’m hoping to travel to central and northern WI to ride some trails and camp up there. I grew up riding trail bikes in western PA.
Thank you Ben for allowing yourself to make an extravagant decision for once! It gives me hope that I can do the same 🙂 soon. I live at the foot of the mighty Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. I own both a 21 Afirica Twin AS ES DCT (Love this bike!). But I mostly solo ride. When exploring solo (with my Garmin SOS on board) I take my second bike a 230 CC, a '21 California Scooter Company TT250. I am considering the Husky 701 or KTM 690 as I exclusively begin my adventures on the roads/highways leaving from home (about 25-35 miles out from the woods and trails). I am considering a Beta 390 RR-S too, but agree with you that that may be too much road duty for a higher compression bike......hmmmm. I really don't want to do a DR-Z 400 which is the most common (nor the DR 650). I hope this might be the solution!
I've got zero regrets so far! It's not the most comfortable ride (compared to my KLR) but it's such a blast to ride and does pretty darn good at high speeds.
I leaned towards a 2014 500 exc and plan to pickup a T7 or KTM 990 for the road. For a bike in the middle of that, the 701 and 690 are hard to beat you are 100%.
Nice! Looks like a 17? That was the worst seat they made. I put a stock seat off a 2018 on mine, and it was night and day. Seat concepts is great too, but wasn't necessary for me, and I put 16000mi on my 17. The vibes were never an issue on mine once I balanced the wheels. I think you'll find the maintenance thing to be negligible. Look at the owners manual, 2k for oil changes. 2 qts is not a lot but it has 2 screens and 2 filters. The rest is just normal like maintenance and consumables like every dirt oriented motorcycle. The 2017 had 4cs forks which was my biggest complaint. I upgraded to a 2023 701 with xlor forks and it's night and day. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised once you get a real ride on it in the dirt. I've taken mine everywhere and have ridden mostly off-road from single track to light adv. I have ridden it at all the Wisconsin dualsports and single track. A lot of the 2 track and adv stuff I do is 2up and there simply isn't another motorcycle capable of that anywhere near the same weight and performance as the 690/701. Years ago dealer's couldn't sell them and now people are finally realizing what a great platform it is.
Had a 690 Enduro R which left me stranded in the woods a few times because sometimes she just didn’t want to start. Wanted to keep it but didn’t like the unpredictability.
I own DR650 and this Husky is light years ahead in power and technology plus has 6-speed for better highway cruising and shorter gearing down low off-road riding. If I lived where you do I might make such an investment but I think it is still too heavy and more money then I would spend. Probably opt for CR450L instead. Once you get over 300lbs for off-road it becomes a big pig and the 70 hp is basically unusable off-road.
Yeah it'll be interesting to see how it does off road around here. I'm use to a KLR and Tenere though so I think my view will be a bit skewed by that haha.
6200mi Not so bad in my book. I only do (no trips) 2000mi or so a year. I ride full-time, and year-round with a short ride to work. It never snows and rarely rains here. "The basic service interval for the 701 Enduro is every 10000 km (6200 miles) or annually, at which point you change the oil and filter, clean the oil screens, and do a host of other annual checks. Every 10000 km / 6200 miles (but not necessarily annually), you also should do a valve clearance check and change the air filter. Luckily the valve clearance check isn’t too involved, as there’s just one piston and the valves are easy to read and adjust. Spark plug changes are every two valve services, but while you have the plugs out for the valve service you should inspect them and check the gap. Finally, keep you brake fluid and coolant up to date, every two and four years respectively."
Cool to see you on a husky! I’m not gonna lie and pretend that I fully trusted my first KTM but just know that most of what you read is squeaky nails and I’ve seen more KLR smoke top ends than any other DS and people still call them reliable and even the T7 groups prove that those break also. Enjoy the the bike! Euro bikes are so much more fun!
I was very happy with my Dr650. For a larger dual sport/lighter adv bike I'd go for the DR. It's got a lot of character. That being said that doesn't mean the 701 isn't awesome!
Concur. DR650 bullet proof and plenty of grunt off road. 14T counter sprocket, bigger gas tank, and some suspension work and you don’t have to pay KTM/Husky prices when you drop it.
Thanks man! Same here, never thought I'd buy one but when this popped up at a good price and lowered so I could actually touch the ground, I couldn't pass it up!
Congratulations, I thought about buying one but also worried about maintenance, but honestly doing 3k miles on that bike, compared to a T-7 is more of a challenge.... For me and my use , I would trailer it to where I can ride, it would just be too much on my old bones to have to ride it an hour to and from, nevermind the thrashing session.. best of luck with it!😊 She's a beauty!
The hour will feel like 5 minutes. You will have adrenaline rush and your puckerhole will feel tight all the time and you will step off the bike 20 years younger. And oil changes a little bit more often? Thats what everyone should do anyway. Go get it!!
Sweet bike..I love the platform I had a chance to test ride a 690 but I'm not a big fan of the frame design.. no engine protection especially for an off road bike
@@SwankyCatProductions nice can’t wait, I subscribe because of your KLR reviews, I had an 08 for a few years then let it go with all the mods 685 big bore and so forth, Got the itch for this 3rd gen model
It looks like I missed some videos. 😂 I did not see this one coming. I like the selection though. To me, the 690/701/700 is the perfect BDR type ride build platform. With some added fuel capacity and tuned out fueling/throttle, they seem like a great fit for technical rocky BDR sections. Motorcycle Travel Channel dude certainly makes good use of his. Looking forward to your videos and reviews on it.
I would much rather have the Doctor then the 701. The only time I would think the opposite is if I lived in a major city and I turned the bike into a SM .
The “higher strung smaller bore counterparts” that you refer to don’t actually need all the maintenance you seem to be so against. The higher performance dual sports are actually very reliable. I think you have talked yourself into not getting one for reasons that don’t actually exist. The only reason not to get a higher performance dual sport is if you can’t afford it. But once you experience how fun they are - especially compared to the old design pigs the japanese call dual sports, you will do everything you can to afford one. Good luck
Yeah I suppose that could be true. The most important thing is to ride what you like and enjoy it. All bikes need work sooner or later, the rides in-between are the important part.
My DR650 was great, taking me places *I* wouldn't take a big bike. I loved it. However, mine wasn't especially reliable, stranding me outback twice, and needing a new top end in between. One owner, fully serviced, 45k km. 🤷 Don't get me wrong, it's a good bike, I loved it, but legendary reliability? Yeah nah. DRs and KLRs don't make much power because they're ancient, air cooled designs, not specifically for reliability. If Suzuki or Kawasaki invested in more than annual paint changes, their versions would also make more power. In comparison, a 690/700/701 is exciting and scary - yeah baby! 😎 Recent models have reportedly fixed known weaknesses. I guess I'll find out. 🤔
I've got almost 1000km on my KLR and I love it, love the looks, love how it rides... But it's fuckin heavy. I biffed it while sidehilling and muscling around that 500lbs is a pain in the dick. Want a lighter bike. I'm kinda waffling between trading it in on a FE501 or a 701. Also kinda waiting on reviews of the new DRZ400, if it's got more power and what's goin on with it before I decide.
@@SwankyCatProductions 2016, thanks. I'm considering one myself from that year. Have you noticed or did already comment on the vibration? Is it excessive or noticeable beyond what you would expect? They say they changed the motor starting 2017, but looking at side-by-side comparison pictures it looks like the motor is identical from the outside. The 2017 is first year of additional counterbalance? Some say the 2016 vibration is terrible and others say , it's fine and they don't even notice much? My intent is casual Trail and adventure riding two up with the girlfriend on the back and some light luggage, perhaps some overnight camping. So needs to be able to also travel on the interstate. And I don't really want a twin-cylinder bike that if I fall over I'm not able to pick it up by myself
I’ve never seen a 701 make it to 30,000 miles. I’ve seen a few in the high teens and one hit 20,000 and then exploded and left the owner stranded. I can’t take these bikes seriously and most of the guys that ride the 701 are usually weekend warriors that just want to look the part with Mosko moto bags and Klim gear. Sadly adventure riding is turning into a “lifestyle” like Harley Davidson. Everyone wants to a “me too” adventure bike now instead of a black street glide
Well, in the maintenance topic: - yes, I do check oil level regularly and I am adding about 250ml over every 5k km. - I change oil every 5k km (vs factory recommend 10k km) - I am cleaning suspension from mud after extremely muddy rides - just to protect the fork seals. - valve checks every 10k km are annoying, that's true. But I let Husky service do it and I still pay for the service less than I used to paid for regular 10k service intervals at BMW dealer with F850Gs. And that is it. So, not too much of work compared to the level of joy it provides 😊
Lol because you like to be stranded when something breaks, and no one on the trails will have tools to help you when it breaks down. Good luck out there, you do have gobs of power but more power can be more problems.
More money than brains. I hope you have maintenance issues, reliability issues, and parts shortages. Husky and KTM are overpriced crap. Report back in 10k miles and tell me how much you love it.
Have had a 690 for a few years now with zero issues. Also have a KLR and always laugh at the difference between the big singles. One wants to lug the other wants its neck wrung.
I rode mine from Portland to Tuktoyaktuk on the Arctic Ocean and back last year. No issues.
That’s 5,000 miles round trip. I hope you didn’t have an issues lol
@@IRLtrolls had to replace chain on return trip.
I have the same windshield. I moved it up so the bottom holes on the shield line up with the top holes in the fairing. Then drilled out on the sides and down about 3 inches lower than the lowest set of holes. It helped the wind grom shooting up my helmet.
Hi Ben, I had the exact same sentiments and surprise when I bought a 701 LR version some 6 months ago. To be honest and cut through the tape; all perfect specs on paper; weight, quality etc... but; it's too powerful -for me-. I wouldn't worry too much about longevity; 10k km oil change and a lot of clever modern engineering on a single cylinder (NO other manufacturer over the years has put in so much further R&D into a single)
Very impressive! The Klr and T7 are good bikes and all, but the fact you have a serious bike now has put you at the top of my watch list.
Thanks Ron! Yep, this is a definite first for me. The Tenere is a pretty aggressive bike but the Husky is on a whole nother level!
Awesome bike, good move! A lot of what keeps me from heavily modifying my DR is the fact that I’d probably be paying more in total cost than I would if I just got the 701. I’m staying on the cheaper side of the mods until the OEM components are worn out.
Sweet bike! You can buy 2 DR650's for one 701. The 701 mainanace also swayed me to the DR 650.
I actually picked this up for a fairly reasonable price, but the DR is definitely the more sensible choice either way. Up until this point most of my bike choices have been reasonable, so I decided to finally go the other way. Can't say I'm disappointed so far!
Maintenance is really not bad, 11000 on my 2020 and happy so far.
If you want the best dual sport, 701/690 is unbeatable. The old DR doesn’t hold a candle to those two. I had a 2021 701 for two years and put 12000 miles on it without any issues. You won’t be disappointed.
in the UK the blue panel one has the old 690 engine without the second counterbalanced head.
It's 67hp, not 74 and you need to check the rocker arms at every oil change and maybe even carry some with you as they go fast! mine collapsed 600 miles after the main dealer service at 6k where they actually checked the valve clearance.
@@matthewallison6823 nonsense
That Husky looks like a whole lotta fun. Bought a new KLR last fall and have been watching the videos you post as i'm near you in Rapids and I"m sure I will end up on some of the same trails some day. 63 years old and I spent the last 40 years mostly on the highway so i'm looking forward to getting back into and playin in some dirt. Not sure if the KLR was the right choice but I have loved the 160 miles I put on it so far.
Holy Cow, Ben...a 701 Husky!! One of my fav bikes (that I do not own , LOL). Love to hear more about the professional lowering kit. Can't wait to see some ride videos this summer. Bike season is soon!
I've always sort of had them on my radar but didn't want to spend the money and wasn't sure Id be comfortable with such a tall seat. So when this popped up for a decent price and lowered, I couldn't pass it up! From what the previous owner said, the shop disassembled everything, did some cutting and swapping of internal parts and then the owner dropped the triple tree just a tad since they could only do so much internally on the front. I'm a little afraid it'll have a big impact on the awesome suspension these bikes have, but I doubt I'd be able to have the same confidence on it at stock height. We'll just have to wait and see! And I can't wait to test it out at Harrison Hills!!!
Sweet bike! Welcome to the 690/701 club!
Thanks!!!
Amazing work. Love the headlight. Not too sure about the fuel. tank filler neck. BMW need to offer something similar as an option.
I've had my 690 for six years now. Zero issues for me in that time. The stock seat does suck big time so comfort xl is a good option.
6 years? Wow thats awesome. Did you have to change out anything that gave you issues?
@@madbroindustries the only failure I have had was the clutch went out at 7k miles. Weak stock clutch springs. I have done preventative maintenance, clutch slave, fuel pump, fuel filters, valve check. Approaching 10k miles it runs perfect.
Nice choice! I’m picking up my 23 701 next week, I’m keeping my T7…. For now. Keen to see how much overlap there is and which one I end up choosing each time I head out. Love my T7, sure I’ll love the 701.
Nice video. Ya, the 701 was a bit of an adjustment process for me too.
I have a '23 701. Added a Yosh can with Rottweiler's dongle and PC6 with their map. These run super lean down low and at part throttle where the rider spends most of their time. Post fueling and exhaust mods it pulls much stronger off idle, which is great when trail riding at low speeds or slowing down in a tall gear on the road. It used to lug below 50 in 6th, now it can smoothly jet off from 35 or so. Get the revs up and twist it's tail and ya better be hanging on, the power is stout, the quick shifter is awesome, and the exhaust note from the Yosh can is braapalicious 😆
Another good mod if the bike sees off road are wider pegs and a lower temp fan switch, as the stock pegs are much too narrow, which is more of a problem when riding off road and standing a lot, and the fan switch really lets it heat up when riding slow. It is better to just let the fan run a lot when riding off road, the charging system has no issue keeping up.
It surprised me how good the XPLOR suspension is right off the showroom floor. After setting the sag and dialing the clickers I find it to be just fine. The springs and valving are no fooling around firm, with no typical dual sport mushiness. Out on the trail the suspension craves a load and it wants the rider to hit things at speed to make it move through it's stroke. I am an experienced dirt rider and I ride it like a dirt bike in some pretty challenging Colorado terrain at times.
Ya gotta respect the bike's weight and that the TKCs aren't great in the dirt, but within it's parameters the 701 hauls the mail. I put a rim lock on the front wheel and am running a heavy tube and 21 PSI, that is much better in the dirt than higher pressures, but still high enough to protect the rim from rock damage. I don't worry about the rear too much, Mode 2, ABS and TC off, and let it spin to win. The TKC rear is getting trashed pretty fast.
Speaking of TC off, I also put the "off road" dongle on it to remember the preferred map 2 and TC off settings after shut down. It still defaults to off road front ABS on, rear off, so I still have to turn the front ABS off every time while off road, but it is better than having to reset everything.
These bikes aren't great for anything in particular, but they are able to do pretty much everything reasonably well, and they are just plain fun to ride. This big, fast, smooth and revvy thumper in a capable dual sport wrapper has a uniquely cool feel all its own.
Congrats Ben👊 looking forward to seeing what you have planned. I've looked at theses as well
Thank you! Yeah they've always been on my radar and when this one showed up I couldn't pass it up!
Great choice , I’m predicting this will be your new Favourite 👍🍺🍾
I just bought a 2023 690 in January, love it so far, I’ve owned a bunch of different dual sports and just got rid of my Africa twin that I loved just to heavy off road, was a little worried about the Ktm from all the internet horror stories, people either love them or hate, so far loving the performance, great do all bike
How many miles on it so far
@@keithquinn5624 right at 1200 miles, getting ready to replace the rear tire, the rocky roads here in the ozarks and the horsepower is hard on tires
Nice choice! As a fellow T7 owner in WI I’m interested to follow along on the 701 review and mods you perform! 😁
Thanks pondhawk! Where do you usually ride your T7?
@@SwankyCatProductions this will be my second year of T7 ownership, mostly country roads and commuting in SW Wi, a couple event trail rides at Sauk Prairie Rec Area in Baraboo. I’m hoping to travel to central and northern WI to ride some trails and camp up there. I grew up riding trail bikes in western PA.
Sweet bike man! Power to weight ratio is Awesome. Looking forward to seeing more on this bike!
Thanks! Yeah it's definitely a new experience for me!
Thank you Ben for allowing yourself to make an extravagant decision for once! It gives me hope that I can do the same 🙂 soon. I live at the foot of the mighty Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. I own both a 21 Afirica Twin AS ES DCT (Love this bike!). But I mostly solo ride. When exploring solo (with my Garmin SOS on board) I take my second bike a 230 CC, a '21 California Scooter Company TT250. I am considering the Husky 701 or KTM 690 as I exclusively begin my adventures on the roads/highways leaving from home (about 25-35 miles out from the woods and trails). I am considering a Beta 390 RR-S too, but agree with you that that may be too much road duty for a higher compression bike......hmmmm. I really don't want to do a DR-Z 400 which is the most common (nor the DR 650). I hope this might be the solution!
I've got zero regrets so far! It's not the most comfortable ride (compared to my KLR) but it's such a blast to ride and does pretty darn good at high speeds.
Dream bike. I had to settle with the FE 501, working out well for multi day trips. Feels good.
Those actually look really interesting to me too. Now that I've got a 701 I find myself wanting to try their other models.
I leaned towards a 2014 500 exc and plan to pickup a T7 or KTM 990 for the road. For a bike in the middle of that, the 701 and 690 are hard to beat you are 100%.
What made you chose a 500 over a 450 exc? I'm still unsure which to chose, I plan on having a double mount : enduro and supermoto
I highly recommend swapping out the seat for a Seat Concepts XL if you need more comfort.
I actually just got the standard comfort model. Soooo much better!
The torque hit from a big single is something everyone should experience. Honda xr650l is what I roll on. Would love to have the Gas Gas cousin!!
Nice! Looks like a 17? That was the worst seat they made. I put a stock seat off a 2018 on mine, and it was night and day. Seat concepts is great too, but wasn't necessary for me, and I put 16000mi on my 17. The vibes were never an issue on mine once I balanced the wheels.
I think you'll find the maintenance thing to be negligible. Look at the owners manual, 2k for oil changes. 2 qts is not a lot but it has 2 screens and 2 filters. The rest is just normal like maintenance and consumables like every dirt oriented motorcycle.
The 2017 had 4cs forks which was my biggest complaint. I upgraded to a 2023 701 with xlor forks and it's night and day. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised once you get a real ride on it in the dirt. I've taken mine everywhere and have ridden mostly off-road from single track to light adv. I have ridden it at all the Wisconsin dualsports and single track. A lot of the 2 track and adv stuff I do is 2up and there simply isn't another motorcycle capable of that anywhere near the same weight and performance as the 690/701. Years ago dealer's couldn't sell them and now people are finally realizing what a great platform it is.
Had a 690 Enduro R which left me stranded in the woods a few times because sometimes she just didn’t want to start. Wanted to keep it but didn’t like the unpredictability.
I own DR650 and this Husky is light years ahead in power and technology plus has 6-speed for better highway cruising and shorter gearing down low off-road riding. If I lived where you do I might make such an investment but I think it is still too heavy and more money then I would spend. Probably opt for CR450L instead. Once you get over 300lbs for off-road it becomes a big pig and the 70 hp is basically unusable off-road.
Yeah it'll be interesting to see how it does off road around here. I'm use to a KLR and Tenere though so I think my view will be a bit skewed by that haha.
Looks like it should be a good bike. Looking forward to seeing how you make out on it. Thanks
Thanks, I can't wait!
6200mi Not so bad in my book. I only do (no trips) 2000mi or so a year. I ride full-time, and year-round with a short ride to work. It never snows and rarely rains here.
"The basic service interval for the 701 Enduro is every 10000 km (6200 miles) or annually, at which point you change the oil and filter, clean the oil screens, and do a host of other annual checks.
Every 10000 km / 6200 miles (but not necessarily annually), you also should do a valve clearance check and change the air filter.
Luckily the valve clearance check isn’t too involved, as there’s just one piston and the valves are easy to read and adjust.
Spark plug changes are every two valve services, but while you have the plugs out for the valve service you should inspect them and check the gap.
Finally, keep you brake fluid and coolant up to date, every two and four years respectively."
This is the exact bike I wanted/want , but settled on the klr cause it was half the price.
Half the price twice the weight half the performance!
Cool to see you on a husky! I’m not gonna lie and pretend that I fully trusted my first KTM but just know that most of what you read is squeaky nails and I’ve seen more KLR smoke top ends than any other DS and people still call them reliable and even the T7 groups prove that those break also.
Enjoy the the bike! Euro bikes are so much more fun!
Nice choice!
Change your clutch fluid it that thing, good luck and looking forward to your video's.
I was very happy with my Dr650. For a larger dual sport/lighter adv bike I'd go for the DR. It's got a lot of character.
That being said that doesn't mean the 701 isn't awesome!
Concur. DR650 bullet proof and plenty of grunt off road. 14T counter sprocket, bigger gas tank, and some suspension work and you don’t have to pay KTM/Husky prices when you drop it.
If you could only have 1 bike, what would it be?
Nice 😊
…like you I’m scared of the non Japanese bikes. But I want a Norden 901 soooooooooo Bad !
Thanks! I'll let you know how my experiment goes!
Now we’re talking I’ve always wanted one congrats
Thanks man! Same here, never thought I'd buy one but when this popped up at a good price and lowered so I could actually touch the ground, I couldn't pass it up!
Congratulations, I thought about buying one but also worried about maintenance, but honestly doing 3k miles on that bike, compared to a T-7 is more of a challenge.... For me and my use , I would trailer it to where I can ride, it would just be too much on my old bones to have to ride it an hour to and from, nevermind the thrashing session.. best of luck with it!😊 She's a beauty!
The hour will feel like 5 minutes. You will have adrenaline rush and your puckerhole will feel tight all the time and you will step off the bike 20 years younger. And oil changes a little bit more often? Thats what everyone should do anyway. Go get it!!
Ps im 48
Sweet bike..I love the platform I had a chance to test ride a 690 but I'm not a big fan of the frame design.. no engine protection especially for an off road bike
Yeah it definitely needs a different skid plate! I've got something in the works for that...
Sweet bike Ben.
Thanks man!
The XR650 R is a awesome machine!! Just my 5 cents worth.
Very nice Bike! So you done with the KLR?
Thanks! Nope, I've got some stuff planned for it yet.
@@SwankyCatProductions nice can’t wait, I subscribe because of your KLR reviews, I had an 08 for a few years then let it go with all the mods 685 big bore and so forth, Got the itch for this 3rd gen model
It looks like I missed some videos. 😂 I did not see this one coming. I like the selection though. To me, the 690/701/700 is the perfect BDR type ride build platform. With some added fuel capacity and tuned out fueling/throttle, they seem like a great fit for technical rocky BDR sections. Motorcycle Travel Channel dude certainly makes good use of his. Looking forward to your videos and reviews on it.
I'm pretty excited to see how it handles all my off-road spots, especially the single track!
@@SwankyCatProductions I bet it does great.
I just bought one two weeks ago
My buddy has one he says it's too big for the trail 😞
How tall are you mate? I'm 5'7 looking to get a 701 but know I'd have to lower it.
I would much rather have the Doctor then the 701. The only time I would think the opposite is if I lived in a major city and I turned the bike into a SM .
Bars are bit low in purpose.. hen you stand to not to stand like a tree.. but to be in attack position.. like in enduro off-road track needed.. ;)
That definitely makes sense, off road it's the perfect "attack position".
The “higher strung smaller bore counterparts” that you refer to don’t actually need all the maintenance you seem to be so against. The higher performance dual sports are actually very reliable. I think you have talked yourself into not getting one for reasons that don’t actually exist. The only reason not to get a higher performance dual sport is if you can’t afford it. But once you experience how fun they are - especially compared to the old design pigs the japanese call dual sports, you will do everything you can to afford one. Good luck
Yeah I suppose that could be true. The most important thing is to ride what you like and enjoy it. All bikes need work sooner or later, the rides in-between are the important part.
What year is it?
I'm waiting for Japanese brands to launch a motorcycle like this.
if they don't I think I'm going to buy the KTM 690.
Yeah I really wish they would too!
My DR650 was great, taking me places *I* wouldn't take a big bike. I loved it. However, mine wasn't especially reliable, stranding me outback twice, and needing a new top end in between. One owner, fully serviced, 45k km. 🤷 Don't get me wrong, it's a good bike, I loved it, but legendary reliability? Yeah nah.
DRs and KLRs don't make much power because they're ancient, air cooled designs, not specifically for reliability. If Suzuki or Kawasaki invested in more than annual paint changes, their versions would also make more power.
In comparison, a 690/700/701 is exciting and scary - yeah baby! 😎 Recent models have reportedly fixed known weaknesses. I guess I'll find out. 🤔
I've got almost 1000km on my KLR and I love it, love the looks, love how it rides... But it's fuckin heavy. I biffed it while sidehilling and muscling around that 500lbs is a pain in the dick. Want a lighter bike. I'm kinda waffling between trading it in on a FE501 or a 701. Also kinda waiting on reviews of the new DRZ400, if it's got more power and what's goin on with it before I decide.
y does husky and ktm insist on making their bike so tall im 5’11 and even then they seem needlessly high up
Haha yeah I'm not sure I could even ride mine if it was stock height!
Price can buy 2 dr650 for the price of the 701
New, yes. Used, maybe. I bought mine for less than the price of a new DR though.
Mor powa baby!
Uh huh!!!
What year is it?????
2016
@@SwankyCatProductions 2016, thanks. I'm considering one myself from that year. Have you noticed or did already comment on the vibration? Is it excessive or noticeable beyond what you would expect?
They say they changed the motor starting 2017, but looking at side-by-side comparison pictures it looks like the motor is identical from the outside. The 2017 is first year of additional counterbalance?
Some say the 2016 vibration is terrible and others say , it's fine and they don't even notice much?
My intent is casual Trail and adventure riding two up with the girlfriend on the back and some light luggage, perhaps some overnight camping. So needs to be able to also travel on the interstate.
And I don't really want a twin-cylinder bike that if I fall over I'm not able to pick it up by myself
I’ve never seen a 701 make it to 30,000 miles. I’ve seen a few in the high teens and one hit 20,000 and then exploded and left the owner stranded. I can’t take these bikes seriously and most of the guys that ride the 701 are usually weekend warriors that just want to look the part with Mosko moto bags and Klim gear.
Sadly adventure riding is turning into a “lifestyle” like Harley Davidson. Everyone wants to a “me too” adventure bike now instead of a black street glide
Why people do not choose the 701…maybe the price man…..reliability and lot of maintenance.
Well, in the maintenance topic:
- yes, I do check oil level regularly and I am adding about 250ml over every 5k km.
- I change oil every 5k km (vs factory recommend 10k km)
- I am cleaning suspension from mud after extremely muddy rides - just to protect the fork seals.
- valve checks every 10k km are annoying, that's true. But I let Husky service do it and I still pay for the service less than I used to paid for regular 10k service intervals at BMW dealer with F850Gs.
And that is it. So, not too much of work compared to the level of joy it provides 😊
Found a dr650 in great condition...2000dollars😂 thats why but if monwy wasnt an issue...you're right
Two DR 650 for the price of one 701
I actually didn't pay all that much for mine. My new KLR was actually more expensive and most used DR's here are selling for 5 or 6 thousand.
Lol because you like to be stranded when something breaks, and no one on the trails will have tools to help you when it breaks down. Good luck out there, you do have gobs of power but more power can be more problems.
True! Over a year in now though and so far so good!
Ben Jammin be jammin!🙃
Hahaha
The only reason why I dont want a 701 is because they are just too tall.
not the same thing
More money than brains. I hope you have maintenance issues, reliability issues, and parts shortages. Husky and KTM are overpriced crap. Report back in 10k miles and tell me how much you love it.
1st lol
Have had a 690 for a few years now with zero issues. Also have a KLR and always laugh at the difference between the big singles. One wants to lug the other wants its neck wrung.
What year is the bike?