From the Webike Community's My Bike, the "Owner Review Summary" introduces various motorcycles based on the voices of owners who actually ride or have ridden them. This time, here's what the owners have to say about Husqvarna「Vittpillen 701!」.
To be honest, the Husqvarna "Vittpillen 701" is this kind of bike!
The Vittpillen 701 is a sport naked from Husqvarna. Husqvarna is a long-established Swedish motorcycle manufacturer that began producing motorcycles in the early 1900s. The company has earned a strong reputation in the world of motocross and enduro, and its machines have won world championships. However, in the 1980s, the motorcycle division was sold to the Kajba Group. Later, it was further sold to BMW, and after a series of twists and turns, it is now one of the brands owned by KTM.
Since becoming part of KTM, Husqvarna has basically shared its machine platform with existing KTM models, and the Vittpillen 701 was also developed based on KTM's 690 DUKE sports naked.
Although the Vittpillen 701 and 690DUKE are sibling models, they differ in many ways. The first major difference is the design. The Vittpillen 701 debuted in 2018, boldly incorporating the neoclassical taste that has been a global trend since that time, with a form that is full of character and has no resemblance to anything else. Although the design itself is modern, the mix of retro and modern is exquisite. In particular, the later models with spoked wheels have a strong retro feel and are a must-see for neo-classic fans.
The engine is based on the 692cc DOHC liquid-cooled 4-valve single-cylinder for the 690 DUKE, but the compression ratio has been improved and the intake and exhaust systems have been modified to slightly increase power. The engine has a truly enjoyable, bouncy acceleration that is typical of a big-single engine. The chassis is also derived from that of the 690 DUKE, but the caster angle has been raised and the wheelbase shortened to provide quicker handling.
Although the Vittpillen 701 was developed from the 690 DUKE material, it is a bike with a different character than it appears.
The difference is evident just by sitting astride the machine. The riding position of the Vittpillen 701 is more unique than it looks. The handlebars, which are integrated into the top bridge, are low, flat, and wide in a supersport-like configuration. The seat is also thin, giving it the appearance of a racing machine. However, the step position is low and the leg bend is like that of a naked or tourer.
Although this riding position may feel strange when you are not used to it, you will be surprised at how easy it is to control the machine when you ride it. The supersport-like handlebars make it easy to apply front wheel load, and the rider's lower body can relax, allowing the rider to be more proactive in controlling the machine. Winding roads are a joy, and city driving is agile as well. However, the seat lacks cushioning and the upper body leans forward to a certain extent, so long-distance touring requires preparation.
Such is the Vittpillen 701, which unfortunately is no longer in production after the 2020 model year. Since there are not many originally registered units, the used car market price is high. However, it is not at a premium and is a relatively affordable model. It is unique in both appearance and ride. If you are a rider who values individuality and does not want to be the same as others, this is a car that you should definitely recommend to your loved ones.
How do Webike users feel about Vittpillen 701?
VITPILEN 701
Average price of the new model: -
Used model price: (approx.) 9749 USD
Number of reviews: 6
Data as of August 22, 2023
Average owner satisfaction is 3.64 out of 5 (35 people rated).
It should be noted that the evaluation for looks, handling, and driving exceeded 4 points.
Among these, the looks of the car received a perfect score of 5 points.
On the other hand, loadability received a low score of 1.62 points. There is almost no space under the seats, and there seems to be only a small space for documents and an ETC unit. However, there were a few negative comments about load ability. It may be that many owners are willing to accept a little inconvenience for the sake of beautiful design.
Wittpillen 701, Quick Summary
Advantage
It is quite well equipped with a TRACTION CONTROL, a quick shifter, ON/OFF compatible ABS, etc.
Almost no one else in the market
Fuel economy of 23km/l in town and 30km/l on highways
Acceleration is so good that it almost leaves me behind lol
Disadvantage
Leaning forward, hard to-knee grip
Poor foot grounding
Lots of electrical problems
Vittpillen 701 Owner's Voice
Here are some of the most impressive voices among the many reviews.
Soko ga nuketa gomibako (2020 Model)
| Motive for purchase, intended use, and comparative models | I was hesitant to buy an XSR900 when I switched from a YZF-R1 but was attracted by the one-of-a-kind design and the big single. |
|---|---|
| Advantages/Satisfactory points | Big single engine One-of-a-kind design not found in domestic cars Almost no one else in the market Fuel economy of 23km/l in city driving and 30km/l on highways Light vehicle weight of 157kg |
| Disadvantages/Dissatisfactory points | The tank capacity has been reduced in response to the recall, so the range is short, and the fuel gauge is sketchy and unreliable due to many meter malfunctions. |
| Advice for prospective buyers | Since the 20-year model of VITPILEN701 has been discontinued, it is a good time to buy if you can find a body you can afford when you want one. Especially, there are less than 40 units of the 20-year model VITPILEN in Japan due to Corona's influence. |
Sugi (2020 Model)
| Motive for purchase, intended use, and comparative models | To return to public roads after 20 years of blanks I prioritized the lightness for easy handling over the horsepower that I could not use. I bought this model because I thought it was suitable for the last big single in a panic because I had a feeling that big singles were going to become extinct in the future. |
|---|---|
| Advantages/Satisfactory points | I think the actual car has a better design than the picture or photo. The blue color was also more beautiful than the picture. The riding performance is sufficient for my needs. |
| Disadvantages/Dissatisfactory points | Weak electrical system, such as noise on the LCD meter while riding. Low oil capacity and short oil change intervals. Cheap surface treatment of bolts. Unique position. |
| Advice for prospective buyers | Do not think about loading luggage. If you have a Husq dealer in your neighborhood, don't hesitate to buy one. It is a fun and beautiful ride. |
Gong (2018 Model)
| Motive for purchase, intended use, and comparative models | I decided on it because it looked cool and it was easy to ride after a test ride. |
|---|---|
| Advantages/Satisfactory points | It stands out everywhere I go and I am often approached. Fuel economy is also good. Acceleration is so good that it almost leaves you behind. |
| Disadvantages/Dissatisfactory points | It is a foreign car after all, so problems do occur. Currently, I am waiting for parts for a clutch that is scuffing. There are a few of my friends who are experiencing this problem, although it has not been recalled. The tank capacity is low, so you need to check the fuel station for a long ride. Leaning forward, hard to get a knee grip. Foot grounding is poor. |
| Advice for prospective buyers | If you can ride a bike with a reasonable expectation that problems will occur within a year or two, I would recommend it, but if you want a bike that will not break down like a Japanese car, I would not recommend it at all. |
Check out 701 competitors in Wittpilen 701
The Wittpillen 701 has a sibling model that shares much of its bodywork. That is the Svartpillen 701.
While the Vittpillen 701 has a low handle with an integrated top bridge, the Svartpillen 701 is given an authentic bar handle. While the Vittpillen 701 has a café racer flavor, the Svartpillen 701 is said to be inspired by flat trackers. One of the reasons for this is the tires, which Svartpillen 701 uses a block-patterned tread design.
Turning to the standard motorcycle class, there is a little brother model, the Vittpillen 401. This model was developed based on KTM's 390 DUKE, and although the base machine is different, the design concept is similar. The riding position is similar, and the ride quality is also similar, but the Vittpillen 401 is more nimble due to its lighter weight.
Of course, in terms of power, the larger-displacement Vittpillen 701 has the advantage; both Vittpillens have their own charms that are hard to dismiss.
Now, if you are interested in the reviews of the rivals, check here!
Average owner satisfaction and number of reviews are as of August 22, 2023.
HUSQVARNA SVARTPILEN 701
Average owner satisfaction rating: 3.50 (12 persons)
Average price of new model: -
Average price of used model: (approx.) 9627 USD
Number of reviews: 2
HUSQVARNA VITPILEN 401
Average owner satisfaction rating: 3.58 (36 persons)
Average price of new model: (approx.) 5253 USD
Average price of used model: (approx.) 4385 USD
Number of reviews: 8
