VOLUME 58 ISSUE 2 JANUARY 12, 2021 P73
Focusing only on
dirt? The Husky
is the choice,
and that massive
tank surprisingly
has little effect
on performance.
IN PRACTICE
We'll admit that these two are
slightly odd motorcycles to stick
together in a comparison test,
but despite appearances and
certain specs, they are aimed
at roughly the same riders. At
first glance you'd be forgiven
for thinking the Husqvarna was
going to walk this test, and for
some riders it might, but you
need to consider all the terrains
ADV riders undertake on a given
expedition.
A big single-cylinder motor may
be great for tight single track, but
what about on the roads required
to get to said single track? And a
twin might be better for off-road
touring, but what of its chops
when the terrain gets really tech-
nical?
Considering the massive
105mm stroke, the Husqvarna's
motor is remarkably close to
vibration free. Old, large capac-
ity singles used to rattle the
rider's teeth out, whereas now
the Husqvarna is an exercise in
smoothness. Part of this in due to
the ride-by-wire throttle compared
to the Yamaha's old cable sys-
tem, allowing the 701 rider to dial
in minute throttle applications that
work well for really tight terrain.
Get the Husky's single re-
ally spinning in the higher revs
and you'll get a fair bit of puls-
ing through the bars and pegs,
but by that stage all the decent
power is gone. Keep the single
low in the revs, let it chug from
corner to corner—or over rock to
rock—and you'll be sweet.
