2018 Husqvarna 701 Enduro: Honest Review

Hey guys, let's dive into a comprehensive review of the 2018 Husqvarna 701 Enduro. This bike has been making waves in the dual-sport and adventure riding community, and for good reason. It's a machine that promises a blend of off-road prowess and on-road comfort, but does it live up to the hype? We'll break down everything you need to know, from its engine performance and handling to its ergonomics and overall reliability. Whether you're a seasoned adventure rider or someone looking to upgrade their current dual-sport, this review aims to give you a clear picture of what the 701 Enduro brings to the table. By the end, you should have a solid understanding of whether this bike is the right fit for your riding style and needs. We'll cover the key aspects that make this bike stand out, and also point out some areas where it might fall short, ensuring you get a balanced perspective. So, buckle up and get ready for an in-depth look at the 2018 Husqvarna 701 Enduro!

Overview of the Husqvarna 701 Enduro

The Husqvarna 701 Enduro is a unique blend of a dirt bike and an adventure bike, designed for riders who want to tackle challenging off-road terrain without sacrificing the ability to comfortably cruise on the pavement. At its heart, it boasts a powerful 693cc single-cylinder engine that delivers a punchy and responsive performance. This engine is known for its robust torque, making it ideal for navigating technical trails and powering through soft terrain. The bike's lightweight chassis and long-travel suspension further enhance its off-road capabilities, allowing riders to confidently tackle obstacles and maintain control in demanding conditions. However, the 701 Enduro isn't just about off-road performance. It also features a comfortable seat, decent wind protection, and a smooth-running engine that make it suitable for longer road rides. This versatility is what sets it apart from more specialized dirt bikes and makes it an attractive option for riders who want a do-it-all machine. The bike's advanced electronics, including ride-by-wire throttle, multiple riding modes, and traction control, add an extra layer of sophistication and safety, enhancing the overall riding experience. Overall, the Husqvarna 701 Enduro is a well-rounded package that offers a compelling combination of performance, versatility, and technology, making it a standout choice in the dual-sport market. It's a bike that's equally at home carving through twisty mountain roads as it is tackling rugged off-road trails, making it a true adventure companion.

Engine and Performance

The engine is where the 2018 Husqvarna 701 Enduro truly shines. Its 693cc single-cylinder, four-stroke engine is a powerhouse, delivering around 74 horsepower and a significant amount of torque. This translates to a bike that's incredibly responsive and fun to ride, whether you're navigating tight trails or cruising on the open road. The engine's power delivery is smooth and linear, making it easy to control in a variety of conditions. The ride-by-wire throttle provides precise control and allows for different riding modes, which can be adjusted on the fly to suit the terrain and your riding style. The engine's robust torque is particularly noticeable at low and mid-range RPMs, making it easy to pull out of corners and climb steep hills. Despite being a single-cylinder engine, it's surprisingly smooth, thanks to a well-designed counterbalancer that minimizes vibrations. This makes longer rides more comfortable and reduces fatigue. The engine is also relatively fuel-efficient, allowing for a decent range between fill-ups. The bike's six-speed gearbox is well-matched to the engine's power characteristics, providing smooth and precise shifts. Overall, the engine and performance of the 2018 Husqvarna 701 Enduro are among its strongest assets, providing a thrilling and versatile riding experience that's sure to put a smile on your face. It's a bike that's equally capable of tackling challenging off-road terrain and cruising comfortably on the highway, making it a true all-rounder.

Handling and Suspension

When it comes to handling, the 2018 Husqvarna 701 Enduro is a surprisingly nimble and agile machine, especially considering its size and engine displacement. The bike's lightweight chassis and well-tuned suspension contribute to its excellent handling characteristics. The long-travel WP suspension soaks up bumps and irregularities with ease, providing a smooth and controlled ride, even on rough terrain. The front forks are fully adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune the suspension to your weight and riding style. The rear shock is also adjustable, offering further customization options. The bike's narrow profile and relatively low center of gravity make it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, while its stable chassis inspires confidence at higher speeds. The brakes are powerful and responsive, providing ample stopping power when needed. The bike's ABS system can be disabled for off-road riding, allowing you to lock up the rear wheel for controlled slides. Overall, the handling and suspension of the 2018 Husqvarna 701 Enduro are well-balanced and contribute to its versatility. It's a bike that's equally at home carving through twisty mountain roads and tackling challenging off-road trails. Whether you're a seasoned adventure rider or a beginner, you'll appreciate the bike's predictable and confidence-inspiring handling. The suspension's ability to soak up bumps and irregularities makes for a comfortable and controlled ride, even on the roughest terrain, while the bike's nimble handling makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.

Ergonomics and Comfort

The ergonomics of the 2018 Husqvarna 701 Enduro are designed to strike a balance between off-road control and on-road comfort. The bike features a relatively tall seat height, which can be a challenge for shorter riders, but it provides ample legroom and a commanding view of the road. The seat itself is firm but supportive, providing decent comfort for longer rides. The handlebars are wide and offer a comfortable reach, allowing for good control and leverage. The footpegs are positioned in a neutral location, making it easy to stand up and ride off-road. The bike's slim profile makes it easy to move around on the seat and shift your weight as needed. The wind protection is minimal, but it's adequate for short to medium-length rides. For longer trips, you may want to consider adding an aftermarket windscreen. The bike's controls are well-placed and easy to reach, and the instrument panel is clear and informative. Overall, the ergonomics and comfort of the 2018 Husqvarna 701 Enduro are well-suited for a variety of riding conditions. While it may not be the most comfortable bike for long-distance touring, it's certainly adequate for day trips and weekend adventures. The bike's tall seat height and firm seat may not be for everyone, but most riders will find it to be a comfortable and versatile machine. The ability to easily stand up and ride off-road is a major plus, as is the bike's slim profile, which makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.

Reliability and Maintenance

When considering any adventure or dual-sport bike, reliability is a paramount concern. The 2018 Husqvarna 701 Enduro has generally proven to be a reliable machine, but like any motorcycle, it's not without its potential issues. The engine is known for its durability, but regular maintenance is crucial to keep it running smoothly. This includes regular oil changes, air filter cleaning, and valve adjustments. The bike's electronics are generally reliable, but some owners have reported occasional issues with the ABS system or the fuel injection. The suspension components are also durable, but they will eventually need to be rebuilt or replaced. The bike's overall build quality is good, but some of the plastic components can be prone to scratching or cracking. The seat can also wear out over time, especially if it's exposed to the elements. Overall, the reliability of the 2018 Husqvarna 701 Enduro is good, but it's important to keep up with regular maintenance and address any issues promptly. With proper care, this bike should provide many years of trouble-free riding. It's also worth noting that Husqvarna has a good reputation for customer service and parts availability, which can be a major plus if you ever need to repair or replace something. By staying on top of maintenance and addressing any potential issues early on, you can ensure that your 701 Enduro remains a reliable and enjoyable adventure companion for years to come.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced perspective, here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of the 2018 Husqvarna 701 Enduro:

Pros:

• Powerful and responsive engine
• Excellent handling and suspension
• Versatile performance, both on and off-road
• Lightweight and agile
• Stylish design

Cons:

• Tall seat height may be a challenge for some riders
• Minimal wind protection
• Firm seat may not be comfortable for long-distance touring
• Can be expensive compared to some other dual-sport bikes
• Some plastic components may be prone to scratching or cracking

Final Verdict

So, what's the final verdict on the 2018 Husqvarna 701 Enduro? Overall, this is a fantastic bike that offers a unique blend of performance, versatility, and style. It's a true adventure machine that's equally at home carving through twisty mountain roads and tackling challenging off-road trails. The engine is powerful and responsive, the handling is excellent, and the suspension is well-tuned. While it may not be the most comfortable bike for long-distance touring, it's certainly adequate for day trips and weekend adventures. The tall seat height may be a challenge for some riders, but most will find it to be a comfortable and versatile machine. If you're looking for a dual-sport bike that can do it all, the 2018 Husqvarna 701 Enduro is definitely worth considering. It's a bike that's sure to put a smile on your face every time you ride it. Just be sure to keep up with regular maintenance and address any potential issues promptly to ensure that it remains a reliable and enjoyable adventure companion for years to come. Whether you're a seasoned adventure rider or a beginner, you'll appreciate the 701 Enduro's well-rounded performance and its ability to tackle a wide range of riding conditions.