Thats the Rest they used because nothing want to buy From 2018 to 2019 😂😂 they put the Rest of the Spares and let do the Thailand Guys a few Bikes! 😂😂 Shit over shit! 😂
Bro, no lie, I've been sleeping on this channel. Just now fixing that problem. Cant wait to get through more of your videos man! Love the quality level. Subscribed.
Same! Ive been sleeping on too much Motorcycle content. I think I'm subscribed to you chase, but TH-cam hasn't been showing me much Motorcycle content. I searched for a video about this bike and I'm glad I picked this one because these dudes are pretty chill. Subscribed.
I came from riding sports bikes and was wanting something different so after testing a vitpilen 701 i just went ahead and bought it. It's been my favorite bike with a lot of character. Keep her above 3k rpms only use the quick shifter on high revs and take it through the curves because that's where it shines.
You notice the latest update (get it if you havnt) reduced the vibration and increased the reliability of the quick shifter? Changed the character of my bike in a good way
As much as most of us love the precision, tech and power of the hyper bikes like the Brutale I think you nailed it. At some point , especially on the street, how much do you need? The Vitpilen seems to get you to that GRIN in a way that isn't based on pushing the envelope but more on simplifying and refining what makes a moto fun. So well said!!
It is now late 2022 and it has been discontinued. I just got the 2022 401 version. It is such a sweet bike to ride and just like the 701 it is so beautiful.
They should do a 1290 version of this, that would be great. Clip-ons and more sporty position in general would be probably better than ergonomics of super duke which is really nice bike in other ways.
Recently got the youngest sibling - Vitpilen 250. Even that one is quite fun to ride. Aggressive riding posture yet comfortable. And the good thing that in initial revs it doesn’t scare you as if it is seeking permission to charge on the speedo and at over 5500 rpm it starts rushing.
Styling is great - very futuristic. Seeing one up close they are tiny. I am 5'10 and this felt small and light weight so 75HP would be put to good use. They are expensive and suffer from reliability problems. Once they get that sorted it will be a fantastic bike.
I was actually smiling while you were riding it. Haha. I love it when a bike gives you the giggles. I had it when i test rode the Speed Twin and that's what convinced me to buy it. Great video mate!
yeah in fact the problem is that is impossible to find an aftermarket exhaust that looks better or at least as good as the stock one....that's a first.
I really like that new 2020 white and blue-paint scheme. Nothing wrong with the original silver/white as it is a good homage to the old original Silverpilen, but the new scheme pops a bit more
Every bike I want is for it’s practically and ability to fill a slot in the old tool box so to speak. This is honestly one of very few modern bikes that not only performs the way I want it to, but flat out just LOOKS beautiful. What a modern unique work of art. I usually could care less about how a vehicle looks, but this bike makes me want to start a bike “collection” rather than a tool shed ha.
I've got my Svartpilen 401 as my daily driver in the city, and it's absolutely gorgeous and perfect. I simply love that bike. I tested the Vitpilen 701 too - hilariously awesome to drive, but not my choice for a daily :)
@@The_Waraba I personally don't like the posture - too far forward, not pretty comfortable, but then that's okay since it's a sport bike instead of a scrambler :) also the 701 engine in my opinion is too strong/too performance oriented to be city-suitable. I feel like the 701s should be ridden outside the city, so it wouldn't be as usable for me on a daily basis. the 401 engine and gearbox feel absolutely perfect in the city
@@danielhahn55 You have a point. I was planing to buy a 401 Svartpilen too for my daily commute inside the city to work. My issue is once or twice a week I need to do a 1h30 trip on the highway. And I don’t know if the 401 is safe on the highway. That’s why I’m thinking now Svart or Vit 701
@@The_Waraba thank you, I take care in having an educated opinion :D huh, that's a tough one. I'd absolutely recommend the Svartpilen for that, you'll love it inside the city. but that 1h30 trip might be an issue. it definitely is safe for that, but going that long at highway speeds without a tall windscreen will hurt your neck. but that's an issue with every bike that doesn't have a windscreen. I don't recommend going on the highway - especially that long - with that bike. it maxes out at about 110 km/h, which it'll keep effortlessly though. (keep in mind, highway speed is 130km/h where I live) I suggest making it a 2h trip and taking smaller roads where you travel at around 80-90km/h max, and it will be freaking awesome.
@@danielhahn55 Thank you for your time and consideration ! When you say you dont recommend being too long on the highway with that bike, you mean the 401 Svartpilen ?
As a 401 svartpilen owner, I absolutely love my 401 for the city commute, punchy, much low end torque and it feels like a lil supermoto! Ive ridden the 701 and it is really good! For me i feel the Vitpilen is made for riding twisty corners, it is just planted, svartpilen 701... was not happy, with all the hype about a flat tracker inspired... it looked to plasticity, but with the 2020 models they got it right, only issue i had with the 701 was a leaky clutch slave cylinder when i had the bike as a loner. But if i have to choose.. ill keep my 401 and get the 701 Svartpilen as a Sunday ripper and yet my back wont be broken after a 200km ride ..... but i love both 701’s ... maybe call me a fence sitter
Hi Riaan, How is the reliability of the 401?, I'm thinking to get the new 2022, but the only thing it stops me is the reliability, I hate to have issues with a bike!, I can't bear that,is beyond my comprehension how they can sell you something that brakes down...
Nice job with the review, had mine since 2019, bikes come and go in my life, but this is a keeper so much fun on the country lanes, never feel intimidated, a joy to ride.
@@lashmeliodas58 Hi, this bike was plagued with recalls, but they were all minor fixes, nothing to do with overall reliability. I expect mine to give me many years of enjoyment!!
That sounds like a lot of fun. Which exhaust did you go for? The stock one looks so good - one of the best designed out there, visually. But it's begging for a louder one.
@@motobob Akraprovic end can, then leovince decat, with bad winners mount to keep the belly pan shrouds and the look. well done for the awesome content
That tank and tail are the most beautiful thing. I know it doesn't but it could ride like a potato and I would still love it. Vain and shallow but the absolute truth.
I share the love you have for the bike. I'm so amazed by mine, 7k down and no issues at all. Also got a great dealer, which always helps a lot. The dash is meeeh, but I fitted a black cover over it (Wunderkind accessory), so it helps with that strange plastic disc not fitting the front end at all. but I really don't get the point of "not readable"... what is everybody complaining about, coming from a GSR I can read it just perfectly fine and are you rather keeping your eyes on the road or on the dash?! I fitted downward bar end mirrors as well, helps to keep that straight line from the side - end to end. And yeah, the stock Mickey Mouses are kinda crap anyhow. The big single is such a pleasure, blips and blows cheerfully - and it is for sure packs a punch, 75 hp / 72 nm at 170kg is plenty of fun material. oh and what a surprise, below 2-3k revs it kicks and complains ... yeah well it's a *S I N G L E*, what are people expecting? :D The qs is a gimmick honestly, sometimes it wants and sometimes it doesn't ... but I don't count that as an error, thanks to the hydraulic clutch lever it's also great fun to shift "normally" ps. tank leaking risk and the clutch slave cylinder issue are known and addressed issues, got the later with mine serviced with no charge... I don't think any and all manufactures would acknowledge such errors without charging you a lot. so stop blaming that there are issues that get covered by the manufacturer...
@@noirceur_ I got mine like a month ago from a KTM dealer, was the "sales floor" test model and had about 4500 km down but still as good as new. As I'm from Germany it was at 6100€ (offer was 7300€ but I got 1200€ as trade-in for my old Suzuki). actually a very resonable price, considering it once was listed for nearly 11000€ over here :D
@@LuGer212 ahhhhh I gotcha. Yea for some reason all of the KTM/Husqvarna dealerships here have massive factory rebates from Husqy to get the Svartpilen and Vitpilen models sold. My bill of sale even says $11,999 (MSRP) - $5,100 (rebate) + $1,200 (dealer fees) = $8099 cash price. So that's what I paid for a brand new, never ridden 2019 Vitpilen 701. It was so crazy but all of the Vitpilen and Svartpilen 701s around me in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Wisconsin, Minnesota, New York, all the dealership had this same rebate (or at least VERY close on the rebate price). I got it a month ago and already put 1000 miles of scenic back roads up here in Northern Michigan. Absolutely lovely bike and the only one I've seen ANYWHERE in the states. It gets so many questions that it's almost annoying haha. Drive safe mate!
I don't normally like modern looking bikes but the 401 and 701 are very attractive. I say this as I drive what I considered to be a modern-looking bike myself a 2001 GS 1150. I miss my v Star 1100 custom that was the best bike I ever had that required no maintenance besides oil changes and brake pads.
Such a good looking bike! Love the styling and that blue color looks so good! And I think it doesn’t need more power. Just run it to the revlimiter and get a rush, But still keep your license.. btw I like the Rob & Tim show videos! You guys should make some longer videos together. That would be fun to watch. Like the ones from Zach Courts and Ari Henning or 44 Teeth.. some adventure type videos! Anyway keep it up! Cheers
Having riden one myself, i totally agree with the fun factor. This bike also had me smiling the whole ride. Even if it was only for 45 mins. The only downside for me is that you look rather silly on the bike if you’re a bit tall (6,3). But totally agree with the vid.
Horsepower is overrated. Used to have motorcycles with lots of power that try to kill you coming out of every corner. I compare this bike to a car, the Toyota GT86. It's not about power, but about the driving experience. The fact that you can give it in almost every situation full throttle makes it so much fun.
The Vitpilen 701 is the genuine spiritual descendant of the original BSA Goldstar...a stripped back, aggressive, beautiful sporting big single...lovely.
I've seen a custom one with a small Motogadget dash and it looked perfect! Although not sure how much work it would be to convert, especially given that you need the buttons on the dash and messages to turn the ABS and TC on and off
Enjoy the cafe racer positon whilst you're young and you can ! I had a go on a Thruxton RS , with even lower clip ons over a standard Thruxton, lovelly bike, but my just over 50 year old neck, back and wrists could only handle 20 mins at a time on it.
Huskys are the best!! But still when I show pics is these to someone and talk about its price they are like you could get more features in others but it's not the features its weight and nimbleness and the simplicity of them
I remember when I was a kid in the 70s in France they were all kinds of incredible motorcycles I had never seen before that were not imported to the states .👍👌😂
The biggest marketing con the motorcycle industry has ever pulled is to convince people more power automatically equals better ( closely followed by BMW convincing people the GS is the best all round bike in the world - but that's another story ! ) There's a sweet spot around 60 - 100 BHP that allows a bike to gel with 99% of all roads and make riding a thoroughly satisfying experience .... Its often a very expensive journey to realise that .
Agreed. Looking forward to seeing what the Triumph Trident looks like when the final bike is released. Then we’ll have a great single, triple and inline 4 in that market. I’d argue the XSR700 is the best looking twin too
Agreed, but I’ve owned both and I like the Vitpilen much more. I’ve found it much more fun to ride and it’s gets way more attention. On the other hand you can’t beat Honda reliability.
When the truck came out at 4:36 I thought it’s over 😂 maybe because I am watching from Italy and forgot for a moment you drive on the other side of the road! 😂😂😂 I got immersed in the POV and panicked ahaha Anyway 701, a dream bike. I’m thinking to go with the 401 first for a few years and after upgrade! 💪🏼
AT the price my first thought is the R9T pure ?.. Different seating but a wonderful roadster .The Husky has better forks I would guess but that 1200 boxer and shaft drive still calls .. Your thoughts ? I know you liked the R9T family ...
Great video, I’ve been waiting for this one. I’m always leaning towards a triumph for the next bike. But this is a serious contender for the style I’m after.
Great intro showing the beautiful lines of the bike the awesome tail section ..... then you had spoil it by starting it up OMFG sounds like a LAWN mower 🤣🤣🤣
I was totally gonna get this back in may, if not for the open recall for a leaky gas tank and the cost of insurance being nearly 15% of the bikes cost for each year.
MOTOBOB Yeah it has basically the same engine as the ktm 390 platform. Not really surprised if they are very similar. The weight is also almost identical, although the extra power would be nice. :)
I love the bike, and I'm seriously considering buying it, however, 1st think I change is a full exost (since that the original sound is rabbis) and the mirrors.
HONEST OPINION. I think the design deserved a better sounding engine. Don't get me wrong, I own a 390 Duke, it really takes some time to love the sound of the Duke. I'm thinking a potential competitor for the mt07s or the mt09s naked, but different. But i would love to have this in my garage though :)
3,000 Miles on mine, Leaking oil, Gas tank leak(recall), Front brake issues and two screws that fell out. Sold it and took the lost, I loved the bike when it worked, but F me that gas leak and no dealers knowing what's happening made me regret my purchase.
@@USAKilikk there was a bulletin for recall - gas tank related -- late resolution ""Today (13 July 2020), Husqvarna Australia has announced that replacement tanks are now available. The old tanks were likely to leak “due to possible unevenness in the area of the sealing surface between the tank and fuel pump as well as tank and fuel level sensor”, they say. “The improved tanks have an increased wall thickness to correct this deviation.”
I'd far prefer a smaller, lighter, torquey bike that you can ride at 95% then any amount of 100bhp + monsters. And I'd definitely have the svartpillen instead of the vitpillen!
Great vid! Would you ever consider switching the Street twin for the svart or vit as your daily commuter? I have a similar situation with sense urban traffic and wondering if it's worth a trip to my local Husqvarna dealer to try em out! Also considering the Street twin, xsr700, sv650 and niu ngt.
NIU is cheap to run but doesn't compare to the rest in terms of thrills. But the 4 bikes you've mentioned are tricky to choose from - the Street Twin will be the heaviest but also will feel cushy because of it. The Husky very light so fun but not as smooth. ZSR and SV somewhere in between. Definitely go and test if you can - it's the only way to know which one is right for you!
Stunning bike that would be improved by risers and cast wheels. You won't think the hydraulic clutch is good when the slave cylinder goes at 10,000 miles. It is a KTM. Who gives this a 'thumbs down'?
Tried one, a really hard seat. The pressure on the handlebar is rather high. I do not want to own one. The svartpilen is so much better but i would buy something else
Nice vid Rob, the bike has some nice design details but the overall package looks odd and I personally don't think the bike flows. Whilst the rear light cluster looks great, the rear wheel numberplate/mudguard hugger is awful and have never been a fan of that look. A very subjective looking bike but I can see why others love it.
Cheers DG. Afraid we'll be seeing more and more swingarm plate holders over the coming years... I don't mind them but if you don't like them then you'll be looking for a tail tidy conversion! :)
It's not a fun bike to ride slow, don't buy one ever if you deal with a lot of constant traffic. This bike was made for wide open roads and tight twisties, track or street. They are gear limited stock to about 120mph and it can get there fast enough for just about anyone. It's like a faster supermoto that can't handle jumping very well, they handle like an adv bike mostly on dirt but a lot lighter and faster. A lot of people kit them out into a dual sport with scorpion knobies and bar lifts like the svartpilen which makes them a bit more comfortable at slower speeds. You can throw this bike into sharp turns like nothing else and even if the back tire breaks free it will be stable if you stay on the throttle, that's how it is similar to a supermoto it just doesn't have the suspension travel of such. Take it in dirt with the traction control off and if anyone was behind you they will wish they weren't, imagine most 450cc modern dirtbikes roost then add another 250cc. This is the largest single cylinder four stroke engine you can buy. Oh last but not least when they are new they have a rev limiter engaged and you can't remove the traction control or abs until the fist 1000 miles I think it was, kinda lame, they backfire like crazy on downshift braking which is pretty cool.
The 2020 paint scheme and spoked wheels has just elevated this bike into a different level. Droool
Agreed!
true
But the 690 Duke was SO much better looking. :(
Thats the Rest they used because nothing want to buy From 2018 to 2019 😂😂 they put the Rest of the Spares and let do the Thailand Guys a few Bikes! 😂😂 Shit over shit! 😂
“It’s more fun to ride a slow bike fast, then a fast bike slow”. I owned a Duke 690 for three years, loads of fun with these singles.
Agree
This bike's fast tho? I mean there's many 300cc and below out there
I owned a 690 too, soo much fun and the right amount of power for street use
It's even more fun to ride a fast bike faster than anything else on the road.
I used to think that but ruding a fast bike fast is something else. Glad I have 2 different bike styles to ride.
Bro, no lie, I've been sleeping on this channel. Just now fixing that problem. Cant wait to get through more of your videos man! Love the quality level. Subscribed.
Welcome aboard! 🛳🎉
Same! Ive been sleeping on too much Motorcycle content. I think I'm subscribed to you chase, but TH-cam hasn't been showing me much Motorcycle content. I searched for a video about this bike and I'm glad I picked this one because these dudes are pretty chill. Subscribed.
Bro? Bro? Brooo?
Oooh a genuine TH-cam motovlog celebrity shoutout!
Bro, you've made it.... Chase sees you!
I came from riding sports bikes and was wanting something different so after testing a vitpilen 701 i just went ahead and bought it. It's been my favorite bike with a lot of character. Keep her above 3k rpms only use the quick shifter on high revs and take it through the curves because that's where it shines.
what you think of the vibration?
You notice the latest update (get it if you havnt) reduced the vibration and increased the reliability of the quick shifter? Changed the character of my bike in a good way
@@MrsGondee What update do you talk about? The 2020 Model?
Had my Vit 701 from new for over a year, love the whole feel to the bike, a real thumper (no problem after 4K)
As much as most of us love the precision, tech and power of the hyper bikes like the Brutale I think you nailed it. At some point , especially on the street, how much do you need? The Vitpilen seems to get you to that GRIN in a way that isn't based on pushing the envelope but more on simplifying and refining what makes a moto fun. So well said!!
It is now late 2022 and it has been discontinued. I just got the 2022 401 version. It is such a sweet bike to ride and just like the 701 it is so beautiful.
They should do a 1290 version of this, that would be great. Clip-ons and more sporty position in general would be probably better than ergonomics of super duke which is really nice bike in other ways.
Agree! There have been rumours of a 901 Svartpilen based on the 890r and hopefully the Vitpilen sibling isn’t neglected either...
Woah, i love the Hydraulic press Channel!
They'll do 501 and 900 or 1200 for next year i believe
@@outlawd3 I really, really wish they name the 901 nuda instead of vitpilen. The 901 svart could just be the norden
1290cc single thumper holy sheeeet! that would be nuts.
Recently got the youngest sibling - Vitpilen 250. Even that one is quite fun to ride. Aggressive riding posture yet comfortable. And the good thing that in initial revs it doesn’t scare you as if it is seeking permission to charge on the speedo and at over 5500 rpm it starts rushing.
Styling is great - very futuristic. Seeing one up close they are tiny. I am 5'10 and this felt small and light weight so 75HP would be put to good use. They are expensive and suffer from reliability problems. Once they get that sorted it will be a fantastic bike.
Not unreliable, just 2 or three recalls, easily sorted at service time. Unique bike, don’t see many around.
That color looks stunning! ✨
It really pops in the sun
I was actually smiling while you were riding it. Haha. I love it when a bike gives you the giggles. I had it when i test rode the Speed Twin and that's what convinced me to buy it. Great video mate!
Yeah I got that with the Speed Twin too! It's that sort of power level on the road that does it for me I reckon
This thing has pretty good looking stock exhaust!
yeah in fact the problem is that is impossible to find an aftermarket exhaust that looks better or at least as good as the stock one....that's a first.
It sounds good too
Paul Vela mv agustas also have that problem. Mvs and huskies are some of the most beautiful bikes on sale rn
37 dislikes from the flies stuck on the headlight
I really like that new 2020 white and blue-paint scheme. Nothing wrong with the original silver/white as it is a good homage to the old original Silverpilen, but the new scheme pops a bit more
The Husqvarna ikon is the view from the front of a gunbarrel. They started out making guns and canons. Really nice bike indeed!
Swedish: Vit (Pronounced Veet meaning white) and pilen pronounced peelen meaning the arrow ( pil=arrow) en=the. HOPE i CLEARED THAT UP.
So "The white arrow"? And the Svartpilen is the black arrow right?
Thanks for that
@@finethehuman1821 100%
As the ex owner of a KTM 690 Duke R, this one certainly makes me sit up and take notice.
Every bike I want is for it’s practically and ability to fill a slot in the old tool box so to speak.
This is honestly one of very few modern bikes that not only performs the way I want it to, but flat out just LOOKS beautiful. What a modern unique work of art. I usually could care less about how a vehicle looks, but this bike makes me want to start a bike “collection” rather than a tool shed ha.
You said it brother stunningly Beautiful is the husqvarna 701
I've got my Svartpilen 401 as my daily driver in the city, and it's absolutely gorgeous and perfect. I simply love that bike. I tested the Vitpilen 701 too - hilariously awesome to drive, but not my choice for a daily :)
Why ?
@@The_Waraba I personally don't like the posture - too far forward, not pretty comfortable, but then that's okay since it's a sport bike instead of a scrambler :)
also the 701 engine in my opinion is too strong/too performance oriented to be city-suitable. I feel like the 701s should be ridden outside the city, so it wouldn't be as usable for me on a daily basis.
the 401 engine and gearbox feel absolutely perfect in the city
@@danielhahn55 You have a point.
I was planing to buy a 401 Svartpilen too for my daily commute inside the city to work.
My issue is once or twice a week I need to do a 1h30 trip on the highway. And I don’t know if the 401 is safe on the highway. That’s why I’m thinking now Svart or Vit 701
@@The_Waraba thank you, I take care in having an educated opinion :D
huh, that's a tough one. I'd absolutely recommend the Svartpilen for that, you'll love it inside the city.
but that 1h30 trip might be an issue. it definitely is safe for that, but going that long at highway speeds without a tall windscreen will hurt your neck. but that's an issue with every bike that doesn't have a windscreen.
I don't recommend going on the highway - especially that long - with that bike. it maxes out at about 110 km/h, which it'll keep effortlessly though.
(keep in mind, highway speed is 130km/h where I live)
I suggest making it a 2h trip and taking smaller roads where you travel at around 80-90km/h max, and it will be freaking awesome.
@@danielhahn55 Thank you for your time and consideration !
When you say you dont recommend being too long on the highway with that bike, you mean the 401 Svartpilen ?
I really wasn’t into this bike at first but this color, and those wheels😍
Not really into blue bikes normally but I think this one looks awesome. Has a really nice metallic flake that looks great in the sun too
As a 401 svartpilen owner, I absolutely love my 401 for the city commute, punchy, much low end torque and it feels like a lil supermoto! Ive ridden the 701 and it is really good! For me i feel the Vitpilen is made for riding twisty corners, it is just planted, svartpilen 701... was not happy, with all the hype about a flat tracker inspired... it looked to plasticity, but with the 2020 models they got it right, only issue i had with the 701 was a leaky clutch slave cylinder when i had the bike as a loner. But if i have to choose.. ill keep my 401 and get the 701 Svartpilen as a Sunday ripper and yet my back wont be broken after a 200km ride ..... but i love both 701’s ... maybe call me a fence sitter
Hi Riaan, How is the reliability of the 401?, I'm thinking to get the new 2022, but the only thing it stops me is the reliability, I hate to have issues with a bike!, I can't bear that,is beyond my comprehension how they can sell you something that brakes down...
Nice job with the review, had mine since 2019, bikes come and go in my life, but this is a keeper so much fun on the country lanes, never feel intimidated, a joy to ride.
How's the realizability?
@@lashmeliodas58 Hi, this bike was plagued with recalls, but they were all minor fixes, nothing to do with overall reliability. I expect mine to give me many years of enjoyment!!
@@r008ter good to know, God speed bro.
Such a lovely bike! Gets better every time you look at it!
THAT color, this bike, and the new 401's are exactly why I'm stoked for the 901 when it drops later this year. Can't wait to see you review it.
I think the new 901 is horrible, the ruined all the original flare that the 701 had… so,sad
Yeah, I feel that. I really wanted a new Vitpilen, but I ended up buying an older Hayabusa instead.
@@ZAIBYR Ye thats a crazy bike, have fun on it!
@@julo737Thank you. I love it.
Ah im so glad you like the vitpilen ! i wish you could ride my modified one, exhaust and powercomander and carbon fiber really brings it alive
That sounds like a lot of fun. Which exhaust did you go for? The stock one looks so good - one of the best designed out there, visually. But it's begging for a louder one.
@@motobob Akraprovic end can, then leovince decat, with bad winners mount to keep the belly pan shrouds and the look. well done for the awesome content
The giggle with joy @5:42 says it all....
That tank and tail are the most beautiful thing. I know it doesn't but it could ride like a potato and I would still love it. Vain and shallow but the absolute truth.
Every dealer I speak to says that how a bike looks is a massive part of most purchasing decisions. Makes sense to me - bikes are a passion thing!
@@motobob That 701 has some eclectic charm to it
Impressively soulful
i have a 690 duke and what a sweet single it is. been thinking about the 890 duke but would like to see a 901 as i like the looks.
Really good vid, love the drone/aerial shots and involving Tim 👍
Cheers WJV! Appreciate the support
I prefer Svartpilen 701, riding position feels better to me, but like the color scheme on Vitpilen, hard choice :)
Under 900cc you can use more of the power more of the time in all the gears. Singles and twins are grunt fun.
Agreed!
Modern classic work of art
I share the love you have for the bike. I'm so amazed by mine, 7k down and no issues at all. Also got a great dealer, which always helps a lot.
The dash is meeeh, but I fitted a black cover over it (Wunderkind accessory), so it helps with that strange plastic disc not fitting the front end at all. but I really don't get the point of "not readable"... what is everybody complaining about, coming from a GSR I can read it just perfectly fine and are you rather keeping your eyes on the road or on the dash?!
I fitted downward bar end mirrors as well, helps to keep that straight line from the side - end to end. And yeah, the stock Mickey Mouses are kinda crap anyhow.
The big single is such a pleasure, blips and blows cheerfully - and it is for sure packs a punch, 75 hp / 72 nm at 170kg is plenty of fun material. oh and what a surprise, below 2-3k revs it kicks and complains ... yeah well it's a *S I N G L E*, what are people expecting? :D
The qs is a gimmick honestly, sometimes it wants and sometimes it doesn't ... but I don't count that as an error, thanks to the hydraulic clutch lever it's also great fun to shift "normally"
ps. tank leaking risk and the clutch slave cylinder issue are known and addressed issues, got the later with mine serviced with no charge... I don't think any and all manufactures would acknowledge such errors without charging you a lot. so stop blaming that there are issues that get covered by the manufacturer...
Thanks for the info LG! Enjoy :)
I got mine brand new for only $8100 due to dealer rebates going on here in the states. When and where did you get yours from?
@@noirceur_ I got mine like a month ago from a KTM dealer, was the "sales floor" test model and had about 4500 km down but still as good as new. As I'm from Germany it was at 6100€ (offer was 7300€ but I got 1200€ as trade-in for my old Suzuki). actually a very resonable price, considering it once was listed for nearly 11000€ over here :D
@@LuGer212 ahhhhh I gotcha. Yea for some reason all of the KTM/Husqvarna dealerships here have massive factory rebates from Husqy to get the Svartpilen and Vitpilen models sold. My bill of sale even says $11,999 (MSRP) - $5,100 (rebate) + $1,200 (dealer fees) = $8099 cash price. So that's what I paid for a brand new, never ridden 2019 Vitpilen 701. It was so crazy but all of the Vitpilen and Svartpilen 701s around me in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Wisconsin, Minnesota, New York, all the dealership had this same rebate (or at least VERY close on the rebate price). I got it a month ago and already put 1000 miles of scenic back roads up here in Northern Michigan. Absolutely lovely bike and the only one I've seen ANYWHERE in the states. It gets so many questions that it's almost annoying haha. Drive safe mate!
I don't normally like modern looking bikes but the 401 and 701 are very attractive. I say this as I drive what I considered to be a modern-looking bike myself a 2001 GS 1150. I miss my v Star 1100 custom that was the best bike I ever had that required no maintenance besides oil changes and brake pads.
It’s like the old grey import 400s of the 90’s, bikes are more fun when you can wring they’re neck and use all the power.
Great review 👌🏻
My top 4 bikes in the garage
1. BMW NINE T - 2 cilinder
2. VITPILEN 701 - 1 cilinder
3. Z900RS - 4 cilinder
4. XSR900 - 3 cilinder
I go looking for your reviews because they are well edited, detailed, and you like bad ass looking bikes.
Thanks RR! 🙏
Such a good looking bike! Love the styling and that blue color looks so good! And I think it doesn’t need more power. Just run it to the revlimiter and get a rush, But still keep your license..
btw I like the Rob & Tim show videos! You guys should make some longer videos together. That would be fun to watch. Like the ones from Zach Courts and Ari Henning or 44 Teeth.. some adventure type videos! Anyway keep it up!
Cheers
Cheers mate - would love to do some rides like that but tbh it’s finding the time atm. Maybe next summer!
Having riden one myself, i totally agree with the fun factor. This bike also had me smiling the whole ride. Even if it was only for 45 mins. The only downside for me is that you look rather silly on the bike if you’re a bit tall (6,3). But totally agree with the vid.
Fortunately/unfortunately I don’t have that problem 😂
Bet that would sing with a wings exhaust. My KTM 690 Enduro with Wings exhaust is the best sound I have ever heard.
Horsepower is overrated. Used to have motorcycles with lots of power that try to kill you coming out of every corner.
I compare this bike to a car, the Toyota GT86.
It's not about power, but about the driving experience.
The fact that you can give it in almost every situation full throttle makes it so much fun.
I remember seeing one at excel, stunning looking bike, great vid.
Cheers mate! That feels like a while ago now... imagine that! A motorcycle show!
Same!
The Vitpilen 701 is the genuine spiritual descendant of the original BSA Goldstar...a stripped back, aggressive, beautiful sporting big single...lovely.
Beautiful bike. Heres hoping we get a 901 version of Svartpilen and Vitpilen based off of the duke 890r as rumoured
Now that would be awesome...
They are working on with twin cylinders 490cc and up - nice
EICMA next year perhaps
You’re right; the dash looks really naff,
but the rest looks great ... 🤷🏻♂️
I've seen a custom one with a small Motogadget dash and it looked perfect! Although not sure how much work it would be to convert, especially given that you need the buttons on the dash and messages to turn the ABS and TC on and off
Looks great but there are so few dealers in the USA.
Bob. A good informative video. By the sound of it, you're in love but each to his own!!
If I lived in the country rather than in London, I’d be tempted
Enjoy the cafe racer positon whilst you're young and you can ! I had a go on a Thruxton RS , with even lower clip ons over a standard Thruxton, lovelly bike, but my just over 50 year old neck, back and wrists could only handle 20 mins at a time on it.
Wow I'm in the states that's beautiful I've never seen a Husqvarna road motorcycle 👀👀
Huskys are the best!! But still when I show pics is these to someone and talk about its price they are like you could get more features in others but it's not the features its weight and nimbleness and the simplicity of them
I’m in Australia & I’ve still got the Husky Nuda 900R! Still love for its twin & mortard handling. Haven’t ridden the 701 but I will.😎👍🏻
Hi .. how is the nuda ?? I m interested to buy one...;)
@@mariuspetre1613 Honestly if you can find one & it’s been well looked after, go for it! They are a weapon! 😈👍🏻😎
@@andrewd7586 thank you!!
Talk all you want about the looks of this bike, it's so innovative it deserves to go on about.
This bike is a surprise. As ever Svartpilen/vitpilen? Good video 👏👏👏
I remember when I was a kid in the 70s in France they were all kinds of incredible motorcycles I had never seen before that were not imported to the states .👍👌😂
The biggest marketing con the motorcycle industry has ever pulled is to convince people more power automatically
equals better ( closely followed by BMW convincing people the GS is the best all round bike in the world - but that's
another story ! )
There's a sweet spot around 60 - 100 BHP that allows a bike to gel with 99% of all roads and make riding a
thoroughly satisfying experience .... Its often a very expensive journey to realise that .
I'm simping on this beauty
WTF is simping! I speak english, never heard of it. lol
@@sscbkr48 Simping: A male overly catering to the exaggerated emotions of a woman.
It's an informal term.
This and the Honda CB650R (and the other sizes of the neo cafes) are some of my favorite looking bikes
Agreed. Looking forward to seeing what the Triumph Trident looks like when the final bike is released. Then we’ll have a great single, triple and inline 4 in that market. I’d argue the XSR700 is the best looking twin too
Agreed, but I’ve owned both and I like the Vitpilen much more. I’ve found it much more fun to ride and it’s gets way more attention. On the other hand you can’t beat Honda reliability.
Along with the Suzuki SV650X and Yamaha XSR
Wonder if we’re ever gonna get a 901 or 1301. With the motors out of the 890 and 1290 duke
Hope so! Especially as the 901 Norden is in the works
@@motobob would be amazing!
Genuine excitement ! That’s what bikes should make you feel like 👍 I’m just interested what middle weight naked bike would you have ?
This would be great for country lanes, but for a bit more flexibility I might be tempted to pay a couple of grand more for a street triple rs
When the truck came out at 4:36 I thought it’s over 😂 maybe because I am watching from Italy and forgot for a moment you drive on the other side of the road! 😂😂😂 I got immersed in the POV and panicked ahaha
Anyway 701, a dream bike. I’m thinking to go with the 401 first for a few years and after upgrade! 💪🏼
AT the price my first thought is the R9T pure ?.. Different seating but a wonderful roadster .The Husky has better forks I would guess but that 1200 boxer and shaft drive still calls .. Your thoughts ? I know you liked the R9T family ...
If Huskie ever makes a Vitpilen 800 (from the 790), I will buy two.
or the 890?
@@TH-cam_Globetrotter indeed.
It would be interesting to see the LC8c parallel twin this husky.
That’d be fun indeed
Great video, I’ve been waiting for this one. I’m always leaning towards a triumph for the next bike. But this is a serious contender for the style I’m after.
Definitely a different vibe than the Triumphs. They're more weighty, more refined. This is light and nippy. Try both before you buy!
@@motobob I'm 165cm tall,, will it be a problem for me to ride this bike??
Subbed,brilliant channel passed my das October 2020 put a deposit down on the trident 660 whats your thoughts on the 660
Great intro showing the beautiful lines of the bike the awesome tail section ..... then you had spoil it by starting it up OMFG sounds like a LAWN mower 🤣🤣🤣
Needs the akra slip-on accessory
I was totally gonna get this back in may, if not for the open recall for a leaky gas tank and the cost of insurance being nearly 15% of the bikes cost for each year.
Gotta say, love my vitpilen 401. Perfect starter bike in my opinion. But can’t wait to tryout the 701 once. Anyone owned both?
I've ridden the 390 Adv which is the same motor as the 401 right? Has a very similar feel to it tbh - just more power on the 701
MOTOBOB Yeah it has basically the same engine as the ktm 390 platform. Not really surprised if they are very similar. The weight is also almost identical, although the extra power would be nice. :)
Nice man! I was looking forward to you doing a review on one of these!
Can't wait for the 801
Why 801 when we can get the 901
Gorgeous bike , looking for my second bike after owning a sv650 , I would buy this if it had more power
I love the bike, and I'm seriously considering buying it, however, 1st think I change is a full exost (since that the original sound is rabbis) and the mirrors.
Its well shot. Good quality
Well I recognise all those road! Its a cool bike but the 690SMCR makes more sense to me.
Yeah that road through Fyfield is brilliant - any other recommendations for similarly good bends round there?
@@motobob all those B roads going North are great, between the M11 and A134.
India just received the 250cc Vitpilen and I so much love the look of that bike too. I wanted to buy it but it doesn't suit my purpose.
Let’s hope the 401 comes soon to India..250 is too less
That's a good looking Thumber
HONEST OPINION. I think the design deserved a better sounding engine. Don't get me wrong, I own a 390 Duke, it really takes some time to love the sound of the Duke. I'm thinking a potential competitor for the mt07s or the mt09s naked, but different. But i would love to have this in my garage though :)
They're making a v2 version for next year, I want 😩
A close friend suffered too much from this bikes reliability. Leaking oils, falling screws and finally leaking fuel in 3k km. He gave it back.
Curious what would your friend intend to get next
3,000 Miles on mine, Leaking oil, Gas tank leak(recall), Front brake issues and two screws that fell out. Sold it and took the lost, I loved the bike when it worked, but F me that gas leak and no dealers knowing what's happening made me regret my purchase.
@@USAKilikk there was a bulletin for recall - gas tank related
-- late resolution
""Today (13 July 2020), Husqvarna Australia has announced that replacement tanks are now available.
The old tanks were likely to leak “due to possible unevenness in the area of the sealing surface between the tank and fuel pump as well as tank and fuel level sensor”, they say.
“The improved tanks have an increased wall thickness to correct this deviation.”
@@USAKilikk Where was the oil leaking from? I had the fuel leak but fixed now. Nothing else seems to be a problem so far.
Well that's a boner kill.
Hey so I've been very interested in one of these how are they on long rides? Like 1hr plus??
You should go for svartpilen it's ergonomics are for longer rides , this is a cafe racer
In love with my 701. No problem till 4000 km, then the clutch broke. It’s a dangerous problem. Husqvarna knows that problem.
Why didn’t they fix.?
How has it been since? Any more problems? Really thinking about getting one, but these reliability issues scare me!
@@blob2092 the re is not more problems. It’s a special bike. Husqvarna gives you a extender warranty till 10 years ir 80000 Km.
I love this bike too... except the stupid meter.
It is functional, but the one on xsr700 looks better, and is easier to read.
When are you making Vitpilen 1000 cc with 200 HP naked sports bike? Time is up now to upgrade Vitpilen.
Nice bike, good review👍🏻. If I hadn’t just bought a Honda CB1000R I would absolutely give this a second look!
CB1000R a better all rounder if you're doing motorway etc. But if all you do is sunday runs and don't need 140hp+ then this is a great option
Absolutely. I do a fair amount of motorway riding during a “normal” year, trying to get to motorcycle rally’s up & down the country.
gotta love that moment of panic as a canadian when you think he is about to have a head on with a truck. btw we drive on the correct side of the road.
I'd far prefer a smaller, lighter, torquey bike that you can ride at 95% then any amount of 100bhp + monsters. And I'd definitely have the svartpillen instead of the vitpillen!
Did he pause the camera on his boots just to freak out Mr.Fish? ;) great video, nice bike
Haha maybe...
Not ease to a non native speaker, but it's pronounced more like veet-peelen :) Oh, and nice vid!
Great vid! Would you ever consider switching the Street twin for the svart or vit as your daily commuter? I have a similar situation with sense urban traffic and wondering if it's worth a trip to my local Husqvarna dealer to try em out! Also considering the Street twin, xsr700, sv650 and niu ngt.
But would also like to be able to use it on weekends and an occasional evening for some pure joy riding
NIU is cheap to run but doesn't compare to the rest in terms of thrills. But the 4 bikes you've mentioned are tricky to choose from - the Street Twin will be the heaviest but also will feel cushy because of it. The Husky very light so fun but not as smooth. ZSR and SV somewhere in between. Definitely go and test if you can - it's the only way to know which one is right for you!
I'd like you to find a customized XSR700 with some farkles for a review.
TIA...
Dude, you just read my mind....love that bike.
I tried to like it, I just couldn't get past the shape of that gas tank...ended up buying an FTR1200
Dream part 2 after vitpilen 250 succeeded 😅
Nice 1 Bob.
Looks rad. Then it starts up. Go Cart.
Stunning bike that would be improved by risers and cast wheels. You won't think the hydraulic clutch is good when the slave cylinder goes at 10,000 miles. It is a KTM.
Who gives this a 'thumbs down'?
Fair point re the clutch! Cable easy to maintain
@@motobobother than added maintenance,
is the hydraulic clutch significantly better in use vs old cable pull?
Tried one, a really hard seat. The pressure on the handlebar is rather high. I do not want to own one. The svartpilen is so much better but i would buy something else
Nice vid Rob, the bike has some nice design details but the overall package looks odd and I personally don't think the bike flows. Whilst the rear light cluster looks great, the rear wheel numberplate/mudguard hugger is awful and have never been a fan of that look. A very subjective looking bike but I can see why others love it.
Cheers DG. Afraid we'll be seeing more and more swingarm plate holders over the coming years... I don't mind them but if you don't like them then you'll be looking for a tail tidy conversion! :)
It's not a fun bike to ride slow, don't buy one ever if you deal with a lot of constant traffic. This bike was made for wide open roads and tight twisties, track or street. They are gear limited stock to about 120mph and it can get there fast enough for just about anyone. It's like a faster supermoto that can't handle jumping very well, they handle like an adv bike mostly on dirt but a lot lighter and faster. A lot of people kit them out into a dual sport with scorpion knobies and bar lifts like the svartpilen which makes them a bit more comfortable at slower speeds. You can throw this bike into sharp turns like nothing else and even if the back tire breaks free it will be stable if you stay on the throttle, that's how it is similar to a supermoto it just doesn't have the suspension travel of such. Take it in dirt with the traction control off and if anyone was behind you they will wish they weren't, imagine most 450cc modern dirtbikes roost then add another 250cc. This is the largest single cylinder four stroke engine you can buy. Oh last but not least when they are new they have a rev limiter engaged and you can't remove the traction control or abs until the fist 1000 miles I think it was, kinda lame, they backfire like crazy on downshift braking which is pretty cool.
Does it come with a neck scarf or do you have to provide your own?