Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 Review – Performance & Riding Experience
Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 Review – Performance & Riding Experience
Blog Article
The Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 is a unique and stylish café racer that blends retro aesthetics with modern technology. Designed for riders who appreciate minimalism and performance, the Vitpilen 701 offers an exhilarating riding experience. In this review, we will explore its performance, handling, comfort, and overall riding experience.
Design and Aesthetics
One of the standout features of the Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 is its design. The bike boasts a clean, minimalist look with a futuristic touch. The round LED headlamp, sculpted fuel tank, and sleek rear end give it an aggressive yet refined stance. The unique trellis frame adds to its lightweight appeal, making it look like a true café racer with a modern twist. The attention to detail in the design makes it one of the most visually appealing motorcycles in its segment.
Engine Performance
At the heart of the Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 lies a 692.7cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that delivers an impressive 75 horsepower and 72 Nm of torque. This engine is derived from the KTM 690 Duke and is known for its punchy power delivery. The lightweight construction, combined with the power output, ensures an engaging and thrilling ride.
The throttle response is sharp, and the powerband is broad, making acceleration smooth and linear. The bike's quick-shifter allows clutchless upshifts, enhancing the riding experience, especially on open roads. While it lacks a twin-cylinder setup, the single-cylinder engine makes up for it with its raw and responsive character.
Handling and Ride Quality
The Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 is designed for nimble handling, and it excels in this department. Weighing just 157 kg (dry weight), the bike feels incredibly light and agile, making it ideal for urban riding and twisty roads. The trellis frame, coupled with WP suspension, ensures excellent stability and feedback.
The 43mm WP Apex USD forks at the front and the WP monoshock at the rear offer a perfect balance between comfort and sportiness. The suspension setup is slightly on the firmer side, which helps during aggressive cornering but can feel stiff on rough roads.
The Brembo braking system, with a 320mm front disc and a 240mm rear disc, provides excellent stopping power. The Bosch ABS system ensures safety and confidence in emergency braking situations. The bike's Pirelli Diablo Rosso III tires further enhance grip, making cornering a joyful experience.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Despite its aggressive café racer styling, the Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 offers a reasonably comfortable riding posture. The clip-on handlebars are positioned slightly lower, giving a sporty stance without putting excessive strain on the wrists. However, taller riders may find the seat height of 830mm a bit challenging, especially in stop-and-go traffic.
The seat, while stylish, is relatively firm and may not be ideal for long rides. The bike is best suited for short, spirited rides rather than extended touring. That said, the overall riding ergonomics are well-balanced for those who enjoy an engaging and connected riding experience.
Technology and Features
The Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 is equipped with modern technology that enhances both performance and safety. Some notable features include:
- Ride-by-wire throttle for precise power delivery
- Slipper clutch to prevent rear-wheel lockup during aggressive downshifting
- Quick-shifter for seamless gear changes
- Bosch ABS for enhanced braking safety
- Minimalist digital instrument cluster providing essential riding data
While it may not have advanced electronics like traction control or multiple riding modes, the bike's simple yet effective features cater to purist riders who value a raw riding experience.
Fuel Efficiency and Practicality
With a 12-liter fuel tank, the Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 offers decent fuel efficiency for a performance-oriented motorcycle. On average, it delivers around 20-25 km/l, depending on riding style and conditions. While it may not be the most fuel-efficient bike in its category, the balance between performance and mileage is commendable.
In terms of practicality, the Vitpilen 701 is more of a stylish urban machine than a touring companion. It lacks storage options, and the firm seat makes long rides less comfortable. However, for city riding and weekend canyon runs, it is a perfect choice.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unique and eye-catching design
- Lightweight and agile handling
- Powerful and responsive engine
- High-quality WP suspension
- Quick-shifter and slipper clutch enhance riding experience
- Excellent braking performance
Cons:
- Firm seat limits long-distance comfort
- Limited practicality for touring
- Slightly high seat height for shorter riders
- No traction control or ride modes
Conclusion
The Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 is a motorcycle designed for riders who appreciate a blend of style, performance, and simplicity. Its powerful single-cylinder engine, sharp handling, and aggressive design make it a standout choice in the café racer segment. While it may not be the most practical bike for long journeys, it excels in delivering an engaging and thrilling riding experience.
For those who seek a unique and fun motorcycle that offers a balance between raw performance and modern features, the Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 is an excellent choice. Whether carving through city streets or attacking twisty mountain roads, this bike promises an unforgettable ride.
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