Riding the Husqvarna 701 Supermoto

Most parts on the Supermoto mirror those on the Enduro, but the riding experience is completely different. The core changes between the two machines are the brakes, suspension and wheels and they combine to provide you with a road-going hooligan machine. Without knowing it, that mischievous voice you keep locked away appears from nowhere and eggs you on to ride harder and faster, prompting wheelies out of every roundabout and general fooling around.

It’s a bad influence, but so much fun. In essence, it is the epitome of a supermoto. But where this model varies from a lot of its motocross-origin siblings is that it’s much more refined. The seat is huge and comfy, the rubber-mounted handlebars aren’t excessively vibey and the riding position is surprisingly spacious and considered.

Another difference between the models is the gearing, with the Supermoto’s being taller. Triple figure speeds were achievable, albeit not instantly, though the bike’s low-down injection of oomph deserves complimenting. In a road context, 145kg suggests a relatively lightweight machine and while 50ft-lb of torque isn’t a mind-blowing figure, it equates to a lively pickup from a standing start.

Whenever the bike was upright, I didn’t hold back from thrashing the motor, which delivered smooth and linear power throughout every gear. On the opposite end of the scale, the bike’s braking was also impressive and I was pleased to note the ABS wasn’t too keen to kick in. Although it’s fitted to both models, the morning’s ride on the Enduro hadn’t highlighted the advantages of the 701’s slipper clutch, which I found of massive use on Tarmac.

This machine won’t suit everyone, but it will be the must-have motorcycle for those who enjoy going for back lane blasts, or insist on being the first away from the traffic lights in town.

Engine: 690cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, sohc Peak power: 67bhp (49kW) @ 7500rpm Peak torque: 50ft-lb (68Nm) @ 6000rpm Transmission: 6-speed Frame: Steel trellis-type Tank capacity: 13 litres Wheelbase: 1480mm Suspension – Front:

Rear:

Brakes – Front: WP 48mm units with adjustable compression and rebound. 215mm of travel. Fully adjustable WP monoshock with 250mm of travel.

Brembo four-pot radial caliper and 320mm disc. Rear: Brembo single piston floating caliper on 240mm disc. Dry weight: 145kg Seat height: 890mm Price: £7999 Contact: www.husqvarna-motorcycles.com