Husqvarna 701 Enduro’s Top Speed & Modifications
The Husqvarna 701 Enduro is a versatile dual-sport motorcycle designed to conquer both urban streets and rugged off-road trails. Combining the agility of a dirt bike with the road-worthiness of an adventure tourer, this bike appeals to riders seeking an all-rounder that excels in various terrains. Whether you’re commuting through city traffic or exploring remote backcountry paths, the 701 Enduro promises an exhilarating ride with its powerful single-cylinder engine, lightweight frame, and advanced electronics.
Design and Engineering Marvels
The 701 Enduro’s design is a masterclass in sleek, modern aesthetics and functional engineering. Its bodywork is ergonomically sculpted to allow unrestricted movement, while the high-grip seat cover and redesigned headlight add a touch of style. Underneath the sleek exterior lies a chromium-molybdenum steel trellis frame, powder-coated for durability and precise handling.
Suspension duties are handled by the fully adjustable WP XPLOR-USD fork and WP XACT shock, both designed to provide a plush ride on rough surfaces. The shock features a new piston for improved comfort, and both the fork and shock settings can be adjusted by hand, allowing you to fine-tune the ride quality to suit your preferences and terrain.
Unveiling the Husqvarna 701 Enduro’s Exhilarating Performance
At the heart of the 701 Enduro’s performance lies a powerful single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, SOHC engine that produces a whopping 74 horsepower at 8,000 rpm and 73.5 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. This potent powerplant propels the 701 Enduro to an impressive top speed of 112 mph (180 km/h), making it a formidable contender on both highways and off-road trails.
While exact acceleration figures are not widely available, the 701 Enduro’s power-to-weight ratio promises thrilling acceleration, especially off the line and in the low-to-mid rev range, where its abundant torque shines.
Specifications at a Glance
- Engine Type: Single-cylinder, 4-stroke, liquid-cooled, 4 valves per cylinder, SOHC valve configuration, 12.7:1 compression ratio
- Displacement: 692.7 cc
- Bore x Stroke: 105 mm x 3.15 in
- Fuel System: Standard, Keihin brand, fuel injected
- Transmission: 6-speed
- Clutch: APTC(TM) slipper clutch, hydraulically actuated
- Final Drive: Chain
- Fuel Capacity: 3.4 gallons
- Curb Weight: 322 lbs (146 kg)
- Ground Clearance: 10.6 in
- Seat Height: 36.4 in
- Brakes: Brembo
- Tires: Continental TKC 80
- Electronics: Hitachi Astemo EMS with RBW, twin ignition
Riding the Husqvarna 701 Enduro: A Thrilling Adventure
Swinging a leg over the 701 Enduro is an invitation to embark on an exhilarating adventure. On the road, the bike’s lightweight and nimble handling make it a joy to maneuver through city traffic and tight corners. The torquey engine delivers robust acceleration, allowing you to confidently merge onto highways or overtake slower vehicles.
Venture off the beaten path, and the 701 Enduro truly shines. Its long-travel suspension and generous ground clearance enable it to tackle rough terrain with ease, soaking up bumps and obstacles with aplomb. The bike’s agility and responsive steering make it a willing dance partner on twisty trails, while the powerful brakes provide reassuring stopping power.
Comfort is a priority for longer journeys, with the upright riding position and ergonomic controls minimizing fatigue. However, some riders may find the seat firmness and footpeg vibrations tiring over extended periods.
Factors that Influence the Husqvarna 701 Enduro’s Top Speed
While the 701 Enduro’s top speed of 112 mph (180 km/h) is impressive, several factors can impact its ability to reach and sustain those velocities.
First and foremost, the bike’s engine power and gearing play a crucial role. With 74 horsepower on tap, the 701 Enduro has ample muscle to propel itself to triple-digit speeds. However, its off-road-biased gearing may limit its outright top speed potential.
Aerodynamics and weight distribution also come into play. The 701 Enduro’s upright riding position and tall windscreen create more wind resistance at higher speeds, potentially limiting its top-end performance.
Riding conditions and terrain can also affect the bike’s top speed capabilities. On smooth, well-maintained roads, the 701 Enduro can comfortably cruise at its top speed. However, on rougher surfaces or loose terrain, the bike’s suspension and traction may limit its maximum attainable speeds for safety reasons.
Finally, rider skill and experience play a crucial role in exploiting the 701 Enduro’s full performance potential. Skilled riders can better manage the bike’s power delivery and maintain stability at high speeds, while novice riders may find the bike’s top-end performance intimidating.
Owner Insights: Praises and Critiques
Owners of the Husqvarna 701 Enduro have a lot to say about their bikes, both positive and negative.
On the positive side, many owners rave about the bike’s torquey power delivery and agility, which make it a joy to ride both on and off-road. The fuel efficiency is another commonly praised attribute, with some owners reporting over 60 mpg in mixed riding conditions.
However, the 701 Enduro is not without its critics. Common complaints include the firm seat, which can become uncomfortable on longer rides, and vibrations from the footpegs and engine that can fatigue the rider. Some owners also lament the lack of creature comforts like a fuel gauge, TFT display, and adjustable clutch lever.
Comparing the Husqvarna 701 Enduro to its Rivals
In the competitive dual-sport and adventure bike segments, the Husqvarna 701 Enduro faces stiff competition from several capable rivals.
When it comes to top speed, the 701 Enduro holds its own against bikes like the Honda CRF450RL and KTM 690 Enduro R, both of which are street-legal dirt bikes with similar performance capabilities.
However, the Yamaha Ténéré 700 and KTM 790 Adventure R offer more versatility and long-distance touring capabilities, albeit at the expense of some off-road prowess.
In terms of pricing, the 701 Enduro strikes a balance between affordability and performance, with an MSRP of around $12,999 in the United States.
Unleashing the Husqvarna 701 Enduro’s Full Potential
While the 701 Enduro is a potent machine straight from the factory, many owners choose to unleash its full potential through performance upgrades and customization options.
For those seeking even more power and acceleration, aftermarket exhaust systems, high-flow air filters, and engine tuning can extract additional horsepower and torque from the single-cylinder powerplant.
Comfort and ergonomics can be enhanced with upgrades like rally-style seats, lowering links, and handguards, allowing riders to tailor the bike to their specific needs and riding styles.
Protection is also a popular area for customization, with crash guards, skid plates, and engine case covers helping to safeguard the 701 Enduro from the rigors of off-road riding.
Pros and Cons of the Husqvarna 701 Enduro
Like any motorcycle, the Husqvarna 701 Enduro has its strengths and weaknesses.
Pros:
- Potent single-cylinder engine with abundant torque
- Lightweight and agile handling
- Impressive fuel efficiency
- Capable off-road performance
- Competitive pricing
Cons:
- Firm seat can cause discomfort on long rides
- Footpeg and engine vibrations
- Lack of some modern convenience
Alternatives to Consider
While the Husqvarna 701 Enduro is a compelling choice for those seeking a versatile dual-sport machine, it’s worth considering some alternative options as well.
In the adventure bike segment, the Yamaha Ténéré 700 and KTM 790 Adventure R offer more long-distance touring capabilities, with features like larger fuel tanks, windscreens, and luggage options. However, they may not be as nimble or capable off-road as the 701 Enduro.
For riders prioritizing off-road performance, the Honda CRF450RL and KTM 690 Enduro R are excellent street-legal dirt bikes with similar power and agility to the 701 Enduro.
Ultimately, the Husqvarna 701 Enduro is best suited for riders who value a balanced combination of on-road and off-road performance, without the need for extensive touring amenities. Its lightweight, agile nature, and potent single-cylinder engine make it a thrilling choice for adventurous souls seeking a versatile all-rounder.
Pricing, Availability, and Support
The Husqvarna 701 Enduro is available through authorized dealerships across the United States, with an MSRP of around $12,999 for the 2024 model year.
Husqvarna offers a 24-month limited warranty on the 701 Enduro, covering defects in materials and workmanship. Additionally, owners can take advantage of a free warranty extension for one or two more years by having their bikes serviced at authorized dealers.
Common issues reported by owners include clutch slave cylinder problems, brake fluid leaks, and cramped ergonomics. However, many of these can be addressed through regular maintenance and aftermarket upgrades.
Husqvarna also offers a 24-month warranty on all official Spare Parts and Technical Accessories used on the 701 Enduro, providing peace of mind for those who choose to customize their bikes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the top speed of the Husqvarna 701 Enduro?
The Husqvarna 701 Enduro has a claimed top speed of 112 mph (180 km/h).
How much horsepower does the 701 Enduro produce?
The 701 Enduro is powered by a single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, SOHC engine that generates 74 horsepower at 8,000 rpm and 73.5 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm.
Is the 701 Enduro street-legal?
Yes, the Husqvarna 701 Enduro is a dual-sport motorcycle that is street-legal for both on-road and off-road riding.
What is the fuel capacity of the 701 Enduro?
The 701 Enduro has a fuel capacity of 3.4 gallons (13 liters).
Can the 701 Enduro’s power be restricted for A2 license holders?
Yes, Husqvarna offers an engine map that can restrict the 701 Enduro’s power output from 74 hp down to 40.2 hp, making it suitable for riders with an A2 license.
What is the recommended maintenance schedule for the 701 Enduro?
Husqvarna recommends changing the oil and oil filter every 6,000 kilometers (approximately 4,000 miles), as well as regular maintenance for items like spark plugs, brake fluid, coolant, and valve clearances.
Conclusion
The Husqvarna 701 Enduro is a thrilling and capable dual-sport motorcycle that excels in both urban environments and off-road adventures. With its potent single-cylinder engine, lightweight and agile handling, and impressive fuel efficiency, the 701 Enduro offers an exhilarating riding experience for those seeking a versatile all-rounder.
While it may lack some modern conveniences and creature comforts, the 701 Enduro’s performance, off-road prowess, and competitive pricing make it a compelling choice for adventurous riders who value the thrill of exploration over luxury amenities.
Whether you’re carving through city streets or tackling rugged trails, the Husqvarna 701 Enduro promises to deliver an unforgettable ride, combining power, agility, and a touch of Swedish engineering excellence.
