Husqvarna is virtually synonymous with ripping off-road, but the brand is so much more than a motocross heavyweight. With the updated 2023 701 Enduro, the Swedish-origin Austrian company doubles down on two-wheeled adventure travel. The large-displacement single-cylinder 701 features advanced technology and the latest electronic rider aids to create an unparalleled experience both on- and off-road.
The 701’s lightweight trellis frame is made of high-grade chrome-moly steel that is paired with a self-supporting rear subframe and integrated fuel tank. Designed to deliver the best possible weight distribution, agility, and stability, the 701 also features a dedicated mounting frame to install side and rear bags. Though it gets close to 200 miles on a tank, the Husky only holds 3.4 gallons, and you’ll definitely want to add some fuel storage to this bike for long-haul overlanding.
The 701’s 692.7 cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine cranks out 74 hp at 8,000 rpm and 73.5 Nm of torque. Reliability, durability, and efficiency are a given with Husqvarna’s motors, but the icing on your 701 cake is a long 6200-mile service interval, meaning fewer mid-trip oil changes and more gas money in your pocket.
The 701 Enduro features nearly ten inches of travel all around. On the front, the 48 mm WP XPLOR upside-down fork is fitted with springs on both sides but separate damping functions. The clicker settings can be easily and quickly adjusted via the dials on the top of the fork tubes— the red dial on the right alters rebound damping, while the white dial on the left is for compression damping. The rear WP XPLOR shock is completely adjustable for rebound and high and low-speed compression damping to ensure unbeatable all-terrain capability.
With ride-by-wire electronics and the latest technology in braking systems, the 701 balances simplicity with modern features. The Bosch cornering ABS gives maximum braking performance and safety and lean-angle sensitive traction control reacts within milliseconds. Both systems can be completely switched off, giving you full control for off-road riding. The 701’s Easy Shift function comes standard and lets you seamlessly shift up or down without using the clutch.
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For 2023, the 701 is sporting flashy new graphics and comes equipped with an intelligently designed LCD dashboard. A USB port ensures a constant charge for your devices and the RPM display and gear selection indicator are clearly visible at a glance. From the handlebars, you can quickly personalize your machine by selecting from two ride modes and turning traction control on or off.
The 2023 Husqvarna 701 is priced at $12,999 and is slated to hit dealerships in the US later this month. Given its combination of enduro-focused features, long service intervals, and plenty of power, the 701 is an ideal bike for your next adventure. Whether you’re eyeing a BDR or a round-the-world trip, pack your gear and just add gas.
