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Husqvarna 701 Supermoto Hits the Track, Looks Pretty Vicious

Even though seeing the Husqvarna 701 Supermoto shod with spiked tires and riding on a makeshift track the surface of a frozen Swedish lake was a neat stunt, watching proper tarmac action is even more rewarding.
Husqvarna 701 Supermoto 6 photos
Photo: Youtube capture
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Some argued that the 701 Supermoto is too heavy for proper track action, but this video proves that the bike is on par with the competition machines. It would definitely be thrilling to see it pitted against the 450cc bikes and see who's who, and we're sure that such a showdown is only a matter of time.

Those mentioning the weight factor should consider that this Husky was not engineered as a thoroughbred race machine, and is a street-legal bike intended for daily rides, commuting, and track fun now and then.

Is 701's weight really an issue?

Whether its 145 kg (320 lb) dry weight is an issue or not we'll see when it goes shoulder to shoulder with other rivals. Considering that this bike will spend most of the time on the street, we'd rather say it will be a very fun machine and a lightweight one compared to the other bikes in the city.

We also estimate that the extra displacement the 701 Supermoto has compared to the traditional 450-class is a boon for the urban street hooligan and will make up pretty well for the extra bulk.

As for the 701 Supermoto being, in fact, a KTM 690 SMC R with a Husqvarna bodywork and specific branding, we know this might sound a bit disappointing to die hard Husky fans, but it's definitely a much better perspective, at least for now, than not having road-going Huskies at all.

KTM might choose to individualize Husqvarna's future models to retain the traditional fanbase, but it's hard to believe that the engines for the two ranges will be entirely different. Until then, however, enjoy the Husqvarna 701 Supermoto hitting the tarmac apex.

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