Are you torn between the Husqvarna 701 and the KTM 690? You’re not alone. Many riders face the tough decision of picking the perfect bike for their adventures. With both models boasting impressive features and performance, it can be hard to know which one truly fits your needs.
Imagine hitting the trails, feeling the thrill of the ride, but unsure if you made the right choice in your bike. This article will help you weigh the pros and cons of each model, making your decision easier. By the end, you’ll have a clearer understanding of which bike suits your riding style and preferences, ensuring you hit the road with confidence.
Key Takeaways
- Engine Performance: Both the Husqvarna 701 and KTM 690 feature similar 693 cc single-cylinder engines, delivering approximately 75 and 74 horsepower respectively, emphasizing strong mid-range torque and smooth power delivery.
- Weight and Handling: The Husqvarna 701 is lighter at around 350 lbs, enhancing maneuverability, while the KTM 690 weighs approximately 360 lbs but offers superior stability due to its suspension.
- Suspension and Comfort: Both bikes utilize WP suspension systems, with the Husqvarna offering longer travel for better off-road capability, whereas the KTM provides adjustments for varied rider preferences and conditions.
- Technology Features: The Husqvarna includes a ride-by-wire throttle and ABS, while the KTM features a full-color TFT display and cornering ABS, highlighting each model’s focus on safety and user-friendly controls.
- Design and Ergonomics: The Husqvarna offers a narrow seat height of 35.4 inches, great for taller riders, while the KTM’s wider seat and lower height of 34.6 inches cater to a broader range of riders, enhancing comfort on longer rides.
- Price Considerations: The Husqvarna 701 is priced around $11,000, reflecting its premium features, while the KTM 690, starting around $10,500, provides strong value for performance-driven riders.
Overview of Husky 701 and KTM 690
The Husqvarna 701 and KTM 690 both cater to adventure riders looking for powerful, lightweight machines. Each model comes with distinct characteristics that make it suitable for various riding styles.
Engine and Performance
- Husqvarna 701: This bike features a 693 cc single-cylinder engine that produces about 75 horsepower. It’s optimized for strong mid-range torque, making it excellent for both off-road and on-road use.
- KTM 690: The KTM 690 also sports a 693 cc engine, delivering similar power at approximately 74 horsepower. Its engine is known for its smooth delivery, offering a balance between power and control.
Weight and Handling
- Husqvarna 701: The Husqvarna 701 weighs around 350 lbs, providing nimble handling. Its lightweight design aids maneuverability in tough terrains, enhancing the overall riding experience.
- KTM 690: The KTM 690 is slightly heavier at approximately 360 lbs. Despite the extra weight, its superior suspension system offers excellent stability, making it confident in various conditions.
Suspension and Comfort
- Husqvarna 701: The bike features a WP suspension setup, with 48 mm forks in front and a rear monoshock that enhances ride comfort. It’s built for aggressive terrain handling but remains comfortable for longer rides.
- KTM 690: The KTM 690 utilizes a similar WP suspension setup but may offer slightly more rebound adjustment, catering to riders who want fine-tuned performance on diverse surfaces.
Technology and Features
- Husqvarna 701: Equipped with a ride-by-wire throttle and multiple riding modes, it provides versatility to adapt to your riding style. It also includes ABS, offering increased safety on varied terrains.
- KTM 690: The KTM 690 features a full-color TFT display that provides essential riding data. It also includes ride modes and cornering ABS, making it suitable for both on-road and off-road adventures.
- Husqvarna 701: The price typically starts around $11,000, reflecting its premium features and technology. It’s considered a great investment for riders prioritizing performance and style.
- KTM 690: Pricing for the KTM 690 usually hovers around $10,500. It offers solid performance, appealing for riders looking for value without compromising capabilities.
Both the Husqvarna 701 and KTM 690 are superb choices, each with its unique set of advantages. Your decision may hinge on personal preferences regarding handling, comfort, and features tailored to your riding adventures.
Design and Build Quality
The design and build quality of both the Husqvarna 701 and KTM 690 impact their performance and appeal. Let’s examine their key aspects.
Frame and Chassis
Both bikes feature a lightweight frame made from high-tensile strength steel. The Husqvarna 701 incorporates a trellis frame, which enhances rigidity and offers impressive handling. This design effectively supports the bike’s aggressive off-road capabilities. The KTM 690 also uses a trellis frame but with a slightly different geometry, offering better stability at high speeds and over rough terrain. The result is a solid foundation that contributes to each bike’s maneuverability and durability in various riding conditions.
Ergonomics and Comfort
Ergonomics play a crucial role in ride quality. The Husqvarna 701 comes with a narrow seat that allows for easy movement during rides, catering to your off-road adventures. Its seat height stands at 35.4 inches, which may suit taller riders well. The KTM 690, on the other hand, features a slightly wider seat that provides comfort on longer rides. With a seat height of 34.6 inches, it caters to a broader range of rider heights.
Both bikes offer adjustable handlebars, allowing you to customize the cockpit for your comfort. The Husqvarna’s handlebars provide a more aggressive riding position, ideal for aggressive maneuvers. The KTM’s setup allows for a more relaxed stance, making it suitable for a mix of street and off-road usage.
Engine Performance
Engine performance plays a crucial role in the riding experience of both the Husqvarna 701 and the KTM 690. Understanding how each bike performs can guide your decision based on your riding style.
Power Delivery
Power delivery greatly influences ride responsiveness and handling. The Husqvarna 701 showcases a 693 cc single-cylinder engine that produces around 75 horsepower. This engine is designed for strong mid-range torque, which aids in pulling smoothly from lower RPMs. Riders commonly appreciate the immediate throttle response, making it ideal for both technical trails and highway merging.
The KTM 690, on the other hand, features a similar 690 cc engine delivering approximately 74 horsepower. This engine excels in providing smooth power delivery across the power band. You’ll notice that it offers a linear acceleration, making it suitable for varied terrains without overwhelming the rider.
Both engines utilize a lightweight design, ensuring that you get a connected feel with the bike. Considering your riding preferences, you’ll find that the Husqvarna offers more aggressive power on-demand, while the KTM suits more mellow, controlled conditions.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency can impact your riding adventures, especially on longer trips. The Husqvarna 701 typically achieves around 50-60 miles per gallon, thanks to its efficient engine tune and lightweight build. This allows for extended rides without frequent stops at the pump, making it attractive for adventure touring.
In comparison, the KTM 690 offers similar fuel efficiency, averaging about 45-55 miles per gallon. This slightly lower range may come from its power delivery characteristics and heavier suspension setup. While both bikes provide reasonable fuel economy, the Husqvarna stands out for longer distances between refueling.
When selecting between the Husqvarna 701 and KTM 690, consider how engine performance and fuel efficiency align with your riding goals, preferences, and typical terrain.
Suspension and Off-Road Capability
The suspension systems on the Husqvarna 701 and KTM 690 play a crucial role in their off-road performance and overall ride quality. Each bike offers unique characteristics to enhance your riding experience.
Front and Rear Suspension
The Husqvarna 701 features a WP Xplor 48 front fork with 12 inches of travel and a WP mono-shock in the rear providing 12.6 inches of travel. This setup balances comfort and responsiveness, making it agile on rough trails. The adjustable features allow fine-tuning for different rider weights and riding conditions.
In contrast, the KTM 690 uses a WP APEX 48 front fork, providing 9.5 inches of travel and a WP mono-shock in the rear with a slightly shorter 9.4 inches of travel. While this offers a more planted feel on hardpack surfaces, it sacrifices some flexibility in rocky terrains. The suspension can also be adjusted, ensuring you can tailor it to your preferences.
Terrain Handling
Both bikes excel in different terrain qualities. The Husqvarna 701 performs exceptionally well on technical trails and rocky landscapes, thanks to its longer suspension travel and nimble handling. Its lighter weight promotes easier maneuverability, which proves beneficial in tight situations.
The KTM 690 shines in varied terrain conditions, particularly in more rugged environments. Its stability during high-speed runs makes it a favorite for riders who tackle faster trails. While it may not be as nimble as the Husqvarna in tight spots, its planted feel ensures confident handling on uneven surfaces.
Overall, both models showcase excellent suspension systems designed for off-road adventures. Your choice between the Husqvarna 701 and KTM 690 may depend on the type of terrain you prefer and your personal riding style.
Technology and Features
The technology and features on the Husqvarna 701 and KTM 690 significantly enhance your riding experience. Each bike brings unique elements to the table, catering to different preferences and styles.
Instrumentation and Controls
Both models offer advanced instrumentation and user-friendly controls. The Husqvarna 701 includes a multifunctional LCD display that provides essential information like speed, gear position, and fuel levels. The ride-by-wire throttle allows for precise throttle control, enhancing your handling on varied terrains.
The KTM 690 features a full-color TFT display, offering excellent visibility in various lighting conditions. This display includes information on speed, gear selection, and riding modes, allowing you to monitor performance easily. Controls on the KTM are ergonomically designed, providing comfort during long rides, with intuitive buttons for quick adjustments.
Safety Features
Safety features play a crucial role in rider confidence and vehicle stability. The Husqvarna 701 comes equipped with an advanced ABS system that includes off-road capabilities, allowing for controlled braking on loose surfaces. Multiple riding modes, such as ‘Off-road’ and ‘Street,’ enable you to adjust performance based on your surroundings and riding style.
The KTM 690 stands out with its cornering ABS, which enhances safety during aggressive cornering. You’ll find multiple ride modes here too, offering flexibility for different conditions. Both bikes emphasize rider safety through these technologies, ensuring a seamless riding experience.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Husqvarna 701 and the KTM 690 ultimately comes down to your personal riding style and preferences. Both bikes have their unique strengths that cater to different types of riders. If you prioritize nimbleness and technical performance on challenging trails the Husqvarna might be your best bet. On the other hand if you value stability and comfort for longer rides the KTM could be the way to go.
Take your time to consider what features matter most to you. Whether it’s the engine’s performance suspension quality or the technology onboard both bikes are designed to elevate your riding experience. Whichever you choose you’re in for an exciting adventure. Happy riding!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between the Husqvarna 701 and KTM 690?
The Husqvarna 701 features a 693 cc engine with 75 horsepower, while the KTM 690 has a 690 cc engine producing about 74 horsepower. The Husqvarna is lighter at 350 lbs, offering nimble handling, whereas the KTM weighs 360 lbs but has superior suspension for stability.
Which bike is better for off-road riding?
The Husqvarna 701 excels in technical off-road conditions due to its lighter weight and longer suspension travel (12 inches front/12.6 inches rear). The KTM 690, however, offers better stability on hardpack surfaces, making it more suitable for rugged environments.
How do the riding features differ between the two bikes?
The Husqvarna 701 includes a ride-by-wire throttle, multiple riding modes, and advanced ABS. In contrast, the KTM 690 features a full-color TFT display, cornering ABS, and user-friendly controls, providing comfort during longer rides.
What is the price difference between the Husqvarna 701 and the KTM 690?
The Husqvarna 701 starts at approximately $11,000, reflecting its premium features and performance. The KTM 690 is priced around $10,500, making it a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality.
Which bike offers better fuel efficiency?
The Husqvarna 701 achieves around 50-60 miles per gallon, making it more attractive for longer rides. The KTM 690 averages about 45-55 miles per gallon, which is slightly less but still respectable for adventure riding.
How does the seat design differ between the Husqvarna 701 and KTM 690?
The Husqvarna 701 has a narrow seat that caters to off-road movement and features a taller height. On the other hand, the KTM 690 provides a wider seat for comfort on long rides, accommodating a broader range of rider heights.
What type of suspension do both bikes have?
The Husqvarna 701 features a WP Xplor 48 front fork with 12 inches of travel, while the KTM 690 has a WP APEX 48 front fork with 9.5 inches of travel. The Husqvarna’s longer suspension allows for better agility on rough trails.
Which bike has a better throttle response?
The Husqvarna 701 is noted for its immediate throttle response and strong mid-range torque, making it ideal for technical trails. The KTM 690 provides smooth, linear acceleration, suitable for various terrains, but may lack immediate responsiveness.
Are both bikes suitable for tall riders?
Yes, both bikes have adjustable handlebars and specific seat designs that can accommodate tall riders. The Husqvarna’s taller seat and the KTM’s wider seat provide options for varied rider heights and preferences.
How does the build quality of both bikes compare?
Both the Husqvarna 701 and KTM 690 feature lightweight frames made from high-tensile strength steel. The Husqvarna incorporates a trellis frame for off-road capabilities, while the KTM’s frame geometry enhances stability at high speeds.
