Husqvarna Vitpilen 701
The Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 has a top speed of 175 km/h, produces 74 hp and weighs 157 kg. Motoryk rates it 7.8/10.
The Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 was introduced in production form in 2018, following a concept debut at EICMA 2014, as part of Husqvarna's revival under KTM Group ownership. It shares its platform with the KTM 690 Duke, using the same 693cc single-cylinder engine, but wrapped in a minimalist, neo-retro 'White Arrow' design inspired by Husqvarna's Swedish heritage. It is notable for bringing a cafe racer aesthetic to a modern, high-performance single-cylinder platform, and received updates including a Euro 5 compliant engine revision around 2021.
74 hp
Power
73 Nm
Torque
157 kg
Weight
175 km/h
Top Speed
4.5–5.5 L/100km (typical real-world average)
Fuel
Naked
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
KTM 690 DNA
The Vitpilen 701 shares its LC4 690cc single-cylinder engine with KTM, meaning parts are widely available and mechanics familiar with KTM bikes can easily service it. This shared platform generally supports long-term reliability when maintained properly.
Watch the Cam Chain
The LC4 engine is known for cam chain tensioner wear, which can produce a rattling noise on cold starts — inspect service records carefully before buying used. Early attention to this issue prevents much costlier engine damage down the road.
Strong Resale Value
The Vitpilen 701's distinctive Swedish café racer styling and limited production numbers help it hold resale value better than many competitors in its class. Low mileage examples in good condition are consistently sought after on the used market.
Generations & Specs by Year
Debut production model; 693cc LC4 single-cylinder engine, trellis frame, minimalist cafe racer styling.
Updated Euro 5 compliant engine, revised electronics package, refined ergonomics and updated color schemes.
Used Buyer Review
"A head-turning urban weapon that punishes neglect and highway abuse equally."
$5,500-$8,500 usedThe Vitpilen 701 is genuinely one of the coolest-looking bikes you can buy used under six grand, and the LC4 single thumps with real character. That 692cc engine pulls hard from low revs and sounds properly agricultural in the best possible way. But go in eyes open — these aren't exactly pampered machines. Check the throttle body carefully, inspect for oil weeps around the head, and always ask for service records because the LC4 needs its valve clearances checked religiously. Day-to-day riding is surprisingly practical. The clip-ons look aggressive but the riding position is manageable for most people. Where it falls apart is anything over 70mph for extended periods — the single-cylinder vibration gets tiresome fast, and that small tank will have you stopping every 120 miles. The WP suspension is decent but not plush. Buy one that's been dealer-serviced and hasn't been dropped. Cosmetic damage on these is expensive to fix because those bodywork panels aren't cheap. Worth every cent for the right rider.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
Rough idle, hesitation, or stalling at low RPM
Clunking rear end, check linkage play by hand
Check dipstick, blue smoke, valve stem seals
Warning lights on dash, scan with KTM dealer tool
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
Solid if maintained, neglect kills it fast
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Husqvarna Vitpilen 701
Moto Guzzi V7 Iii Racer
Husqvarna Vitpilen 401
Kawasaki Z900rs Cafe
Yamaha Xsr 700
Husqvarna Vitpilen 801
Compare Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 vs Moto Guzzi V7 Iii Racer
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 vs Husqvarna Vitpilen 401
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 vs Kawasaki Z900rs Cafe
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 vs Yamaha Xsr 700
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 vs Husqvarna Vitpilen 801
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
More Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 Guides
More from Husqvarna
View all Husqvarna models →Community Reviews
Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Husqvarna Vitpilen 701? +
Throttle body/fuel injector clogging issues: Rough idle, hesitation, or stalling at low RPM (moderate) | WP suspension linkage bearing wear: Clunking rear end, check linkage play by hand (moderate) | LC8 engine oil consumption: Check dipstick, blue smoke, valve stem seals (moderate)
Is the Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 a good motorcycle? +
A head-turning urban weapon that punishes neglect and highway abuse equally. Rating: 7.8/10. Best for: City riders wanting Swedish cool over practicality. Avoid if: You regularly cover long highway touring distances.
What is the horsepower of the Husqvarna Vitpilen 701? +
The Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 produces 74 hp @ 8,000 rpm, with 73 Nm @ 6,500 rpm of torque. Top speed: 175 km/h.
Is the Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 good for beginners? +
Not really — the Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 is better for experienced riders. City riders wanting Swedish cool over practicality Avoid if: You regularly cover long highway touring distances
Is the Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 reliable? +
The Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 has no widely-reported critical reliability issues. 4 minor issues are documented — see the Common Problems section above.
Is the Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 good for daily use? +
City riders wanting Swedish cool over practicality Fuel: 4.5–5.5 L/100km (typical real-world average).
How fast is the Husqvarna Vitpilen 701? +
The Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 reaches a top speed of 175 km/h, producing 74 hp at 157 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Husqvarna Vitpilen 701? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Husqvarna Vitpilen 701, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/husqvarna/vitpilen-701/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
