Husqvarna 701: Enduro Vs. Supermoto Showdown

Hey there, fellow motorcycle enthusiasts! Ever found yourself staring longingly at a Husqvarna 701, dreaming of ripping through trails or carving up the asphalt? Well, you're not alone! The Husqvarna 701 is a seriously cool bike, but it comes in two distinct flavors: the Enduro and the Supermoto. Choosing between them can be a tough call, so let's dive deep and see which one deserves a spot in your garage. This comprehensive comparison will help you figure out which Husqvarna 701 is the perfect match for your riding style and needs. We'll be looking at everything from performance and handling to comfort and versatility, so you can make an informed decision. Buckle up, guys, because it's going to be a fun ride!

Enduro vs. Supermoto: What's the Difference?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let's clarify the fundamental differences between these two bikes. The Husqvarna 701 Enduro is designed for off-road adventures. Think gnarly trails, rocky climbs, and exploring the great outdoors. It's built to handle rough terrain with its long-travel suspension, knobby tires, and a focus on agility. The Supermoto version, on the other hand, is all about street domination. It's essentially a dirt bike modified for the road, boasting sticky tires, powerful brakes, and a suspension tuned for pavement. It's the king of cornering, perfect for those who love to carve up twisty roads and maybe even hit the track. So, the key difference boils down to the intended environment: dirt versus street. The Enduro excels in the wild, while the Supermoto thrives in the urban jungle and on the track. Understanding this basic distinction is the first step in deciding which bike is right for you. Keep in mind that while both bikes share the same powerful 692.7cc single-cylinder engine, their setups are vastly different, leading to unique riding experiences. The Husqvarna 701 models are a testament to the versatility of the platform, offering riders two distinct paths to adventure and excitement. It is interesting to see how the same engine, when paired with different components, can result in two such unique and specialized motorcycles. Each bike has its own personality, and the choice depends on where you want to have the most fun.

Performance: Engine and Power Delivery

Alright, let's talk about the heart of the beast: the engine. Both the Husqvarna 701 Enduro and Supermoto are powered by the same impressive 692.7cc single-cylinder engine. This liquid-cooled, four-stroke engine is known for its strong performance and responsiveness. It pumps out around 74 horsepower and a healthy dose of torque, which translates to plenty of fun in both on-road and off-road scenarios. The engine's character, however, is slightly different between the two models. The Enduro might have a slightly more relaxed power delivery, optimized for off-road traction and control. The Supermoto, on the other hand, might feel a bit more eager, with a more direct throttle response that's perfect for quick bursts of acceleration on the street. However, the differences are subtle, and the core performance is very similar. Both bikes offer thrilling acceleration and a top speed that's more than enough for everyday riding and track days. The engine's versatility is a key selling point. It provides enough power to keep things exciting, whether you're climbing hills, cruising on the highway, or shredding corners. The engine's robust design also contributes to its reliability, making the Husqvarna 701 a motorcycle that you can count on for years of enjoyment. The power delivery is smooth and predictable, making it accessible to riders of various skill levels. This, combined with the bike's light weight, makes for an exhilarating riding experience, no matter which version you choose. The engine's versatility is a key factor in the popularity of the Husqvarna 701 models, providing a thrilling ride in both on-road and off-road scenarios. You really can't go wrong with the engine in either bike, it's a gem!

Handling and Suspension: Where They Truly Differ

Now, this is where the rubber meets the road (or the dirt)! The handling and suspension are the biggest differentiators between the Husqvarna 701 Enduro and the Supermoto. The Enduro is built for off-road dominance, so it boasts long-travel suspension, usually around 250mm of travel front and rear. This allows it to soak up bumps, rocks, and ruts with ease, providing a smooth and controlled ride even on the most challenging terrain. The Enduro's suspension is also designed to handle jumps and drops, making it a capable off-road machine. The Supermoto, however, has a much stiffer and lower suspension setup. The travel is significantly reduced, usually around 200mm or less, and the suspension is tuned for the pavement. This results in incredibly precise handling, allowing you to lean into corners with confidence and feel connected to the road. The Supermoto's suspension is also designed to handle the forces of hard braking and aggressive cornering. The differences in handling extend to the tires as well. The Enduro comes with knobby tires, designed to provide maximum grip in loose dirt and mud. These tires are less effective on the road, where they can feel squirmy and less grippy compared to street tires. The Supermoto, on the other hand, is equipped with sticky street tires that offer incredible grip on the pavement. These tires allow you to lean further, brake later, and accelerate harder out of corners. The steering geometry also plays a role in handling. The Enduro typically has a more relaxed steering angle for stability off-road, while the Supermoto has a steeper angle for quicker turn-in and agility on the street. So, the handling is tailored to the intended environment of each bike. This difference makes the decision between the two relatively straightforward. If you plan to spend most of your time off-road, the Enduro is the clear winner. If you're a street rider who loves to carve up corners, the Supermoto is the bike for you.

Brakes: Stopping Power Matters

Stopping power is crucial, regardless of whether you're on the street or in the dirt, and both the Husqvarna 701 Enduro and Supermoto are equipped with excellent braking systems. The Supermoto typically gets an advantage here, often featuring a larger front disc brake and a more powerful caliper designed for maximum stopping power on the road. This is essential for the aggressive braking required in supermoto riding and on the track. The Enduro also has powerful brakes, but they are often tuned for a more progressive feel, which is beneficial for off-road riding. Off-road, you need to be able to modulate the brakes to avoid locking up the wheels, and the Enduro's brakes are designed to provide excellent feel and control in various conditions. Both bikes come equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), which is a valuable safety feature, especially for less experienced riders. The ABS is often switchable on the Enduro, allowing you to turn it off for off-road riding, where locking the rear wheel can be beneficial for sliding and maneuvering. The Supermoto might have a more advanced ABS system optimized for street riding. The brakes on both bikes are more than capable of handling the power of the engine and ensuring a safe and controlled riding experience. Regardless of which model you choose, you can be confident that you'll have ample stopping power at your fingertips.

Comfort and Ergonomics: Long Rides and Everyday Use

Let's talk about comfort, guys! The Husqvarna 701 Enduro is designed with off-road riding in mind, so its ergonomics are geared towards standing up on the pegs for extended periods. The seat is typically thinner and firmer to allow for better movement and control off-road. The riding position is upright, providing excellent visibility and leverage. The Supermoto, on the other hand, has a slightly more aggressive riding position, but it's still comfortable enough for street riding. The seat is usually a bit more padded, and the handlebars might be positioned slightly lower. Both bikes are relatively tall, which might be a consideration for shorter riders. The Enduro's suspension, while great for off-road, can feel a bit harsh on the street. The Supermoto's suspension is tuned for the pavement, so it provides a smoother ride on the road. The Enduro is arguably more versatile, as it can be used for both on- and off-road adventures, but it might not be the best choice for long highway rides. The Supermoto is ideally suited for street riding, and while it can handle some light off-road use, it's not its forte. Overall, the comfort level depends on how you plan to use the bike. If you plan to spend a lot of time off-road, the Enduro is the better choice. If you're primarily a street rider, the Supermoto will likely be more comfortable. However, both bikes can be used for commuting and everyday riding, but the Supermoto might be a bit more practical for urban environments.

Versatility: Can You Do It All?

So, can you have your cake and eat it too? Well, kinda! The Husqvarna 701 Enduro is arguably the more versatile of the two. It can handle both on- and off-road riding, making it a great choice for those who want to explore different types of terrain. It's a capable commuter, and it can even handle some light touring duties. However, the Enduro is not as specialized as the Supermoto for street riding. The knobby tires and long-travel suspension can make it feel a bit less planted and confident on the pavement. The Supermoto, on the other hand, is a beast on the street. It's perfect for carving up corners, hitting the track, and enjoying the thrill of riding on the open road. While the Supermoto can handle some light off-road use, it's not its primary purpose. The street tires and stiffer suspension are not ideal for rough terrain. Ultimately, the choice depends on your priorities. If you want a bike that can do a bit of everything, the Enduro is a good option. But if you're looking for a pure street machine that excels in cornering and performance, the Supermoto is the way to go. Consider where you'll spend most of your riding time. If it's predominantly on the street, then the Supermoto is the clear winner. However, if you're keen on exploring trails and venturing off the beaten path, the Enduro is the more suitable choice.

Conclusion: Which Husqvarna 701 Is Right for You?

Alright, guys, let's wrap this up! Choosing between the Husqvarna 701 Enduro and Supermoto comes down to your riding style and what you value most in a motorcycle. Here's a quick recap to help you decide:

• Choose the Enduro if: You love off-road adventures, exploring trails, and want a versatile bike that can handle both on- and off-road riding. You prioritize comfort and the ability to stand up on the pegs. You don't mind a slightly less aggressive feel on the street.
• Choose the Supermoto if: You're a street rider who loves carving up corners, hitting the track, and enjoying the thrill of pavement performance. You want a bike with incredible handling, powerful brakes, and a more aggressive riding position. You prioritize on-road performance and agility. Think about where you will ride the most. The majority of your riding will determine which bike to get. If it's primarily on pavement, then the supermoto is the winner. If it's trails and more offroad, then the Enduro is the bike for you.

Both bikes are excellent choices, offering a unique and exciting riding experience. Ultimately, the best Husqvarna 701 is the one that best suits your needs and preferences. Whichever one you choose, get ready for some serious fun! Happy riding, and stay safe out there!