Husqvarna’s upcoming cafe racer Vitpilen 701 has been spotted on test in Spain.
Founded in 1903, Husqvarna Motorcycles is one of the oldest motorcycle brands in the world. It was acquired by KTM in 2013 post which market expansion plans were revealed under the KTM-Bajaj partnership. An enduro and supermoto manufacturer until then, the takeover resulted in Husqvarna exploring new grounds with its Vitpilen and Svartpilen series. It is certain that the motorcycles are nearing final stages of production and the Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 has been spied again on test.
The spyshots, clicked in Spain, reveal intricate details of the production-spec version which isn’t vastly different from the concept showcased at the 2015 Milan Motorcycle Show. The slim tank, clip-on handlebars and rear-set footpegs are quick to give away its cafe racer identity while the rear indicators and licence plate holder now sit lower down on the tyre hugger mounted on the swingarm. This positioning allows for a neat tail section.
All-LED lighting setup and the upswept muffler gives a touch of modernity to the motorcycle. The Vitpilen 701 employs the Duke 690’s engine which churns out a respectable 72 BHP of power along with 70 Nm of torque in the Katoom. This fuel-injected, single-cylinder motor comes mated to a 6-speed gearbox and uses a slipper clutch as well. The partly exposed frame is also shared with the Duke 690. Upside down front forks from WP Suspension can also be seen on the test mule while the rear-end gets a mono shock.
Equipped with disc brakes at either end, the Vitpilen 701 gets a double-channel ABS for efficient and safer braking action. The Swedish manufacturer is likely to showcase the production-spec Vitpilen at the EICMA this month while production is slated to start by late 2018. Bajaj-KTM officials recently confirmed that production of the less-powerful 401 range will be shifted to the Chakan facility, while the 701 range will be launched soon after but will be produced in Austria.
Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 Images
– Undisguised test mule spotted in Spain
– Vitpilen 701 is essentially a KTM Duke 690 in a cafe racer form
– Reveals upside down suspension, disc brakes and other styling bits
– Expected to be showcased at 2017 EICMA
Images Source – SoyMotero.net