GasGas 700 Vs. Husqvarna 701 Vs. KTM 690: The Ultimate Showdown

by Jhon Lennon 64 views

Alright, adventure enthusiasts, dual-sport die-hards, and off-road fanatics! Let's dive deep into a comparison that's been brewing in the motorcycle world: the GasGas 700, the Husqvarna 701, and the KTM 690 Enduro. These bikes are the cream of the crop when it comes to single-cylinder, big-bore dual-sports, and choosing between them can feel like picking a favorite child (don't worry, we won't judge!). This article will break down the strengths and weaknesses of each bike, helping you decide which one best suits your riding style and needs. We'll examine everything from engine performance and suspension capabilities to comfort, features, and overall value. So, grab your helmets, and let's get started on this exciting ride!

Unveiling the Contenders: A Closer Look

Before we pit these three titans against each other, let's get acquainted. The GasGas 700 is the relative newcomer, making waves with its aggressive styling and promise of KTM-derived performance. Then there's the Husqvarna 701, a familiar face with a loyal following, known for its refined handling and Swedish-inspired aesthetics. Finally, we have the KTM 690 Enduro, the veteran of the group, boasting a reputation for its raw power and off-road prowess. Each bike shares a similar recipe: a potent, single-cylinder engine, long-travel suspension, and a go-anywhere attitude. However, subtle differences in design, components, and tuning create distinct personalities. Understanding these nuances is key to making the right choice.

The GasGas 700

The GasGas 700, often viewed as the rebellious sibling of the KTM family, enters the fray with a bold red aesthetic. GasGas has successfully integrated KTM's proven technology with its own unique flair. Its engine, a variant of the KTM 690's, delivers a punchy power delivery, ideally suited for both on-road and off-road escapades. The suspension, designed to tackle the gnarliest trails, promises a smooth ride even in the roughest terrain. Its agile handling, coupled with a lightweight frame, makes it feel surprisingly nimble, whether navigating tight single tracks or carving through winding roads. Many riders are drawn to the GasGas 700's promise of high performance at a competitive price point, with its focus on a purist riding experience. It's a bike for riders who value a thrill and aren't afraid to get their hands dirty. The GasGas 700 has quickly captured the hearts of adventure motorcycle enthusiasts, establishing itself as a formidable competitor in the dual-sport market, with its blend of power, agility, and value. The GasGas 700 is a fantastic choice for experienced riders looking for performance without excessive frills.

The Husqvarna 701

The Husqvarna 701, with its sleek white and blue livery, exudes a sense of premium refinement. While sharing the same core engine platform as the KTM 690, the Husqvarna 701 distinguishes itself through its specific tuning and features. The engine's power delivery is often considered to be more linear and smoother, offering greater control across various terrains. The Husqvarna 701 shines on the road, with its comfortable ergonomics and enhanced features, such as advanced rider aids. It boasts a chassis tuned for both off-road and on-road comfort. The Husqvarna 701 is a favorite for riders looking for a dual-sport that can handle extended highway sections and provide a more refined overall experience. It often appeals to those who prioritize versatility and comfort on their adventures. Its elegant design also lends it a unique style, setting it apart from its orange and red rivals.

The KTM 690 Enduro

The KTM 690 Enduro is the workhorse of the trio, a bike steeped in off-road heritage. Its aggressive orange bodywork signals its intent: to dominate the trails. Its engine, known for its immediate response and robust torque, provides the punch required to overcome tough obstacles. The KTM 690 Enduro's suspension is tuned to be exceptionally compliant, making it capable of handling jumps, rocks, and everything in between. The KTM 690 Enduro offers a pure, unadulterated off-road experience. This bike is all about business. If your goal is to conquer challenging trails and prioritize off-road performance above all else, the KTM 690 Enduro is the ideal choice. It is a favorite amongst off-road enthusiasts seeking raw performance and unmatched capability, offering a thrilling and responsive ride that keeps the legacy of KTM's off-road excellence alive and well.

Engine and Performance: Power on Tap

Let's talk about what makes these bikes tick: their engines. All three bikes share a similar displacement, around 690-700cc, single-cylinder engine. However, the KTM 690 Enduro and Husqvarna 701 share a very similar engine, while the GasGas 700 is also closely related, often sharing the same or very similar specifications. While horsepower figures are very close, how the power is delivered varies. The KTM 690 often has the most aggressive throttle response, offering immediate power for technical riding. The Husqvarna 701 frequently has a smoother power delivery, making it less tiring on long rides, and more suited to on-road use. The GasGas, with its KTM roots, tends to fall in between these two. The main difference lies more in the ECU mapping and gearing than in the raw engine components. It is worth noting that all three engines are known for their reliability, though single-cylinder engines do produce a fair amount of vibration. The KTM 690 and Husqvarna 701 typically feature a balance shaft to mitigate these vibrations. You can expect a top speed in the neighborhood of 100 mph (160 km/h) on all three, with each excelling in acceleration and mid-range torque crucial for off-road riding. The GasGas 700 and KTM 690 typically exhibit slightly more aggressive throttle responses for experienced riders. The Husqvarna 701, often tuned for a more linear power delivery, provides enhanced rideability. Each of these bikes offer thrilling performance. This will translate into what sort of riding you will be doing, and you may find yourself preferring one style of power delivery over another.

Suspension and Handling: Soaking Up the Bumps

Suspension is where these bikes truly separate themselves. The KTM 690 Enduro, the Husqvarna 701, and the GasGas 700 all come equipped with high-quality, long-travel suspension, designed to handle the rigors of off-road riding. They often feature fully adjustable forks and shocks, allowing riders to fine-tune the suspension for various terrains and riding styles. The KTM 690, with its focus on raw performance, typically has slightly firmer suspension settings, making it more stable at higher speeds and on rough terrain. The Husqvarna 701, often prioritizing comfort, can have a plusher feel, making it well-suited for both on and off-road use. The GasGas 700, in true KTM fashion, finds a sweet spot, providing a blend of performance and adjustability. The handling characteristics of each bike are also noteworthy. The KTM 690 often feels the most nimble, thanks to its aggressive geometry, allowing for quick direction changes. The Husqvarna 701, with its refined chassis, offers a balanced feel, inspiring confidence in various conditions. The GasGas 700 aims for a similar level of agility as the KTM. These bikes are intended to tackle rough terrain, and good suspension is essential. Consider the kind of terrain you anticipate riding, and prioritize the suspension setup that suits your needs. For riders, the capability to make adjustments for different environments may be essential.

Features and Technology: Modern Conveniences

While these bikes are built for adventure, they are equipped with modern features. All three typically include digital instrument panels providing crucial information like speed, engine RPM, and trip data. ABS is typically standard, though often it can be disabled for off-road riding, where locking up the rear wheel is sometimes desirable. The Husqvarna 701 often stands out in this department, incorporating advanced features like ride modes, traction control, and a quickshifter, enhancing the riding experience and overall versatility. KTM and GasGas may include similar options, though sometimes these features can be optional. As for the KTM 690 Enduro and GasGas 700, they usually offer a more basic, but still functional, feature set. The KTM 690 and GasGas 700 are still very good, reliable options. Think about what conveniences are important to you. If you appreciate advanced rider aids, the Husqvarna 701 might be the best option. If you prefer a simpler, more direct approach, the KTM 690 Enduro or GasGas 700 may be the better fit.

Comfort and Ergonomics: Saddle Time Considerations

When it comes to comfort, these bikes cater to the dual-sport rider. All three feature upright riding positions, offering good visibility and control. The seat height is relatively tall on all three, so shorter riders may need to take that into consideration. The Husqvarna 701 tends to have the most comfortable seat, making it ideal for longer rides. The KTM 690 Enduro and GasGas 700 have slightly firmer seats, which are great for off-road riding but can become less comfortable on longer road sections. Ergonomics also play a role. The Husqvarna 701 typically offers a more spacious riding position, while the KTM 690 can feel slightly more compact. The GasGas 700 will be more similar to the KTM. Consider how much time you intend to spend in the saddle. For riders prioritizing comfort for long-distance travel, the Husqvarna 701 might be the best option. For shorter rides or more aggressive riding, the KTM 690 or GasGas 700 could be the better fit.

Price and Value: The Bottom Line

Price is always a factor. The KTM 690 Enduro often has a competitive price point, providing excellent value for its performance. The Husqvarna 701, with its premium features and refined finish, typically comes with a slightly higher price tag. The GasGas 700 often offers a similar price as the KTM, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious riders. The value proposition goes beyond the initial price. Consider the cost of maintenance, the availability of aftermarket parts, and the potential resale value. KTM and Husqvarna have established dealer networks and strong aftermarket support. GasGas is growing quickly. Think about your long-term needs and the overall cost of ownership when making your decision. Factor in the features and the intended usage to find the best value.

Which Bike Should You Choose?

So, which dual-sport is right for you? Here's a quick summary:

  • Choose the KTM 690 Enduro if: You want raw power, aggressive off-road performance, and a bike ready to tackle the toughest trails. You're looking for a tried-and-true workhorse. You are prioritizing off-road focus and a no-frills experience.
  • Choose the Husqvarna 701 if: You seek a more refined riding experience, with a focus on both on-road and off-road comfort. You value advanced features and a more versatile machine. You enjoy long rides and a premium feel.
  • Choose the GasGas 700 if: You want a blend of KTM performance, but with a unique style, and a competitive price. You are after an agile, capable machine.

Ultimately, the best way to choose is to test ride each bike if possible. Feel the bikes, and see which bike appeals to you the most. Remember that choosing the right bike is a personal decision based on your riding style, needs, and budget. Each of these bikes are fantastic options, and you'll have a blast regardless. Ride safe, and enjoy the adventure!