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I've come to the conclusion that every rider needs a dirt bike, a dual sport, an adventure bike, a street bike, a cruiser and a minivan and a truck & trailer to finally be happy.
I'd trade the minivan for a Class C motorhome ... about 23 feet long. You're self-contained with some conveniences and tow your dirt bike and dual sport to the Rally to enjoy the rides without being beat to death getting there.
Just set a rule that you take nothing over 400lbs off road. Problem solved. LOL Every single person looking for a dirt bike / dual sport that they can tour on will always be disappointed. Unless they don’t know any better. 😂
I agree. Seems like those two read the reviews for the bikes (Dork tends to really mimic Big Rock Moto), write the review, then find a bike they can ride once for video footage for the review. Seems the reviews are just ways to get a video out for the algorithm and product/advertising revenue. It's their 9-5 day job.
Rode my 701 from MN to West Virginia, then rode the eastern part of the tat. Turned for home down in Corinth Mississippi. Quiet backroads, dirt roads, forest roads, rocky hills, water crossings, 900+ miles of freeway, the bike handles everything.
Hey man, love your work. I actually watched a ton of your KLR stuff when I was thinking about getting my Gen 3. I do want to elaborate on a few points, though. I'm actually on my 2nd 690, I owned an SMCR, and now the Enduro R. I bought the bike for like $1500 off MSRP since its a year old. I totally get the mods thing, but i dont think that excuses KTM from charging $13K for a new bike you *have* to mod when they have LED blinkers, a better dash, and hard plastic grips already on the shelves at the factory. Also, the moron point was due to the fact that I bought at what I expect to be the end of a generational life cycle. With the Ducati Mono dual sport all but confirmed with all the stuff the KTM needs for less cash (I assume based on the sumo price), KTM is going to be forced to upgrade. Oh and my cases started leaking with 80 miles on the clock 😂 Keep the manual. Still love the bike though. Great video. 👍
Wow, thanks man! I really appreciate that!!! I'm a little embarrassed to admit I didn't realize the SMCR was a sumo 690 😅 for some reason I thought you were taking about a 610 or something. In regards to the lights and handguards, I totally agree that it's ridiculous that manufacturers put such junky equipment on bikes. I've just given up on caring for my own sanity 🤣. The dash is just ridiculous though! It'll be interesting to see what happens with the platform after a few other options hit the market, but my guess is KTM/Husky will still sell overpriced, over powered dual sports for lunatics like us! 😂. Ride safe and often brother!!!
@SwankyCatProductions hopefully with new competition they'll at least figure out the torque specs for their cases and keep the oil inside 🤣, but man do I love this dumb bike
As a 701 owner I agree with a lot of what you've said. I haven't lowered mine or ridden a lowered one but I feel comfortable and confident on it, even in corners. I do agree with the consensus that this bike can be a tough sell. The price new + the cost of all the upgrades make it hard to justify. I got an insanely good deal on a used one which is the only reason why I can afford one. I think that this bike is the unicorn platform. I'm not gonna call it the unicorn bike but I do think it's currently the best foundation to build a unicorn.
I've got a '17 690 with a Yenkro tower/fairing, Safari Tank, renazco seat, etc, etc. My 17 still has the full dash, which was something I really wanted. The fairing makes the bike easily capable of cruising at 80mph+. What almost all the reviewers miss on this bike is that it's NOT an adv bike, OR a dirt bike. It's a dual sport, and it does that really well. These are best bought used, after the previous owner has done all the farkles, then sold it because it wasn't the adv or dirt bike they expected. Then you get an amazing bike for short cash.
@@SwankyCatProductions definitely. Bought mine 3 years old, completely built, with 1250 miles on it. He spent a ton of time and money building it, only to never ride it
I had a 690 (basically the same) it was an amazing bike! The bike is more wild than mild. It is certainly set up for performance instead of comfort. Some like it the other way. To each their own. In 2019, they added a counter balancer in the head to help with the harsh vibrations. The newer versions are definitely smoother.
11k miles on my 701 with about every upgrade you can do, and it's an absolute weapon. In stock form definitely needed a few things to meet peoples expectations. I was a little surprised by dork's review, but I think the 690/701 deserves more time on the bike to really appreciate it, especially on more off-road terrain.
Ditto - I love my ‘21 701 and have pretty much every mod you can do to one. I first rode a ‘19 and was off put by the 2x4 seat and tallness coming from a 990. That ‘19 had fueling problems but the dealer let me ride it enough that it grew on me. I found a new ‘21 and built from there. 10k miles later still happy with it.
Almost every response I've seen is that it's not really the best out the door option, but after all the mods to make it yours, it's a great bike. I've had one on my list for a while. Still want one.
yo what year is it? 2018 has a recall for the camshaft decompressors mine just shot out of my engine on the highway im lucky the weight and spring shot out of the engine it still runs perfect waiting on the replacement decompression kit
Well said! I own a 2023 701 Enduro with many tasty bolt ons as well as the Rottweiler Air Intake with a Power Commander and Wings Exhausts. The bike kick ass...
It takes the right skills to appreciate this moto. They obviously don't have them. This bike is a beautiful thing. If you can't appreciate it, stick to the 300 crf's of the world. Put on your big boy pants to rally this thing. Proud owner of a 23 701. Yes, it needs to be tweaked and set-up for your body and riding style, but once you get there.... it's a beautiful thing. I also own a 1290 sas for touring. This is not a touring bike no matter what people say. It's just not, but for day tripping in the dirt. Nothing compares.
AWESOME COMBO !!!!!!! i did have at one time a 450EXC and an 1190r but currently only 1 bike a well set up husky 901 , i do miss the 1190 on the highway and the 450 sometimes off road bu
Nailed it. My current fleet is the 23 500 EXC-F for Off-roading, short trips, 23 690 SMC-R for track/twisties, and 23 1290 SAS for long hauls and BDRs. Gotta get the right tool for the job, or you will always be complaining about compromises!
Is it you or your ego that needs to ride this bike? If you like it then good for you, no one needs to tell others what to ride or call them names. And rally? No you can't cut off is at 450 sorry
@@HankRearden that is not my experience nor the experiences of any actual owners ive met honestly and ive met quite a few..... i might just be lucky i guess ? well and only meet other lucky people ?
@@ogregang3203 So am I unpopular or a bad rider? Make up your mind. Imagine clicking on a video from a guy named "Dork in the Road" and being surprised that he sucks. Absolute genius.
🤣 Haha yeah, you caught me! Thanks for understanding Ben! I actually totally get your 1st reaction. I wish I'd have elaborated on this more, but I felt really uncomfortable on mine for a long time. There's just such a disconnect between the odd sound it makes and the amount of power going to the rear wheel. It was like learning to ride/shift all over again. I do really think you'd have liked it better if it was lowered a bit though. While I've never ridden a stock one, the improvements I noticed dropping my XR only 1" have to carry over and I'll bet that's partly why I like mine so much now. All that being said, it is just an over priced dual sport for guys like me who miss there stupid fast sport bikes 🤣. Take care and ride safe my friend!!!
I just got a 2021 690 enduro r from a gentleman that had some circumstances come up and had to sell it. I’ve put about a 100 miles on it and am not disappointed at all! He did put several mods on it. I did order a lowering link for my short ass and some wheel weights so I can balance the tires for road running. He did put dampening handle bar risers on it and I have ZERO vibrations in the bars even running 70 with 80/20 tires on it. I was impressed. I’ll be putting under seat fuel tank on it, rage garage tower and the bike will be complete. I’m used to riding a street bike for the last 9 years with no windscreen so riding 65 doesn’t bother me one bit on the 690. They complain about putting mods on the bike but who buys a bike and doesn’t mod it?!
I think the people who don’t like it are mainly coming from the ADV world, and the people who love it are coming from mainly dirt experience. I’ve been riding dirt my whole life, I grew up on gnarly mountain trails, which I still ride, and wanted something that I could still ride aggressively, while allowing me to explore further and have less maintenance intervals. I just got mine two weeks ago and am in the process of fine tuning it, but it’s a monster and I’ve already thrown some SERIOUS terrain at it. It’s the absolute perfect bike for me.
I have a 2019 KTM 690 in the US with Nomad rally tower, bar risers, range extender tank and several other items that made a 4,200 mile ride a couple of weeks back superb. On and off road. At home in the UK I have a 2023 701 Enduro awaiting those same mods. Both engines are very smooth for the huge singles that they are. The power pulses from the 690 are way less smooth than the 701 which I believe is the difference in the cush drives which seems pretty limited on the KTM and softer cush rubbers and design of the 701. The bars on both have a tingling buzz over around 60mph and, for me, need bar damping. I’m no off-roader but the non road manners are excellent and the bikes are so light compared to the middleweight adventure bikes I’m used to, my KTM 890 no exception. Once the Husky is properly equipped the 890 will be moving on, great bike though it is. Just not for me. And that’s really the point. We all want different things and our priorities therefore dictate unless we have a bike for all eventualities (plus a trailer with each on hand). Sadly that lottery win never came. Enjoy your 701!!
Well said! I'd sure like to get a rally tower on mine one of these days... perhaps I'll do that and just keep it 🤣. I definitely like it better off road than my old Tenere! So much more fun!
The bike everyone forgets is the Husky TR650. BMW motor, retuned for higher compression. Basically a G650 that goes harder and doesn’t look like a 90s van. And they are a steal, mostly because you have to be a competent mechanic and prepared for no off the shelf parts.
I have a 23 690 and it’s my favorite bike at the moment. (Have a 23 890 adv r, Duke R and 24 Husqvarna 300). That engine (uncorked) is mental fun, it handles fast two lane country roads like a motard and is blast on rougher two track jeep trails and forest service roads. Which is what I have to ride in my area… so it’s *my* unicorn for sure.
I own a 2022 KTM 690 enduro r, and it is absolutely a blast to ride! I'm not sure what Dork in the road was expecting? The newer 690s don't vibrate any more or less than any other big single cylinder motorcycles! Once the 690/701 is tuned properly they run absolutely Phenomenal! I've redden my 690 on many different off road adventures including many parts of the Oregon BDR, it's the bike I choose to use on most of my off road adventures. With that said it's not bike for beginners or for very technical single track, but for most off-road riding the 690/701 platform is a great option for a big dual sport motorcycle. I also own 2023 T7 and it also works very well for it designed too do, but it's no where close to the off-road capabilities of the 690/701 platform. To each their own. Everyone who rides a motorcycle should ride whatever bike they feel comfortable with. This is just my opinion.
I think you make valid points. You seem to think deeply about the nuances of riding and your musings remind me of Zack Courts’. His philosophical ramblings about the intricacies of riding are much more entertaining than whatever bike he happens to be on. I agree that are no bad motorcycles, but sometimes they do need a little help to realize their full potential. The XR is pretty badass lowered btw.
Thank you!!! I certainly do like overthinking things, but sometimes that really comes in handy! Dual sports especially seem to always need a few things to make them fit. I never thought lowering would be one of them, but man I like my XR so much more now! Even looks cooler I think!
Nice! More 701 content. I already commented on Dorks video. I think he'd really like the 690 if he put a few hundred miles on it. Took me a bit to really "get" my 701..
I have had my 2023 for 9 months and 2300 miles. No bike is perfect and either is the 701/690. It is not a highway cruiser. But it will run at 70 easily and it is a lot of fun on back roads and 50 MPH speed limit roads. It is very capable off road and with the Rottweiler Dongle can ride slow through the technical stuff no problem. It also has enough power to load up camping gear and me and ride without issue. I was looking at the 501 for more off road but decided I wanted the longer maintenance intervals. I also ride 6-8 hour days most weekends and it is not the most comfortable but is not bad and I have the stock seat. I think this is a great dual sport with good road capabilities. I have a review and many riding videos on my channel with more detail. This is a bike worth buying and has only been fun and extremely capable for me.
Well said! Mines got a fuel dongle as well, I really should've mentioned that in this video as I'll bet it does make a very noticeable difference. Unfortunately I've not had any experience without it, so I often forget about it 😂
I'm still waiting for a CRF500 rally. I think the Husky/KTM 700ish is just made for a very specific purpose unlike a lot of other bikes that have a more all around use. There is also the point of how many people will actually use enough of the power to make a difference between the 700s and all other cheaper dual sports/ADV bikes.
I have a heavily modified 22' KLR adventure and i love it.. i wish it had a bit more power and a 6th gear but, i wish i was 6'2" and 215 but im not 😂 its fine for what it is and i love the way i made it look.. enjoy your toy!!
Everyone has different likes, expectations, needs and wants of a motorcycle. What fits one person may not fit another. Much like the old bikes I have and ride, some people like the vintage bike while others want the modern cruiser, sport bike, adv, dual sport, etc. I think the 701 is cool, just haven't ridden one. Used to ride my dad's 83' Husqvarna wr250 in the woods. What a good dirt bike that was. I keep eyeballing the Norden though, I might have to get one.
Oh and by the way. I have 30 inch inseam and lowered mine at about 1500miles on it. Now with 54,000 miles on it, i have had zero issues with it. I vote to lower. People taht argue over it dont really makes sense. They say it effects the suspension....well yes. Thats true, it effects it about the same as running an empty gas tank versus a full has tank. With gear on board and no gear onboard. Two up or one up. Literally not one motorcycle is perfect suspension every time you ride it. Way more argument for it than against it. Therr is a reason its a multi-million dollar per year industry. It works.
Nice!!! That's some awesome data! Thank you! 100%, if you don't need the extra ground clearance, LOWER IS BETTER! It's not a mud truck, it's a motorcycle!
T7 is boring. Styling is awesome but otherwise doesn’t feel like it has much soul to me. Boring power delivery and average suspension. I had one for a couple of years. Would love to get a 701.
@@blade1535 i wanted really really bad to like the tenere 700 , i imagined aftermarket suspension aftermarket brake upgrades this and that but no matter how much money you throw at it your never going to change the fact that it weighs the same as an 890 but only 72hp and top heavy feel
Dork thought it was going to easily carry him three hours down the freeway in complete comfort which is an unrealistic expectation. He realized it really is just a thumper with a ton of power.
Hi there Swanky cat , purchased a new 701 back in March this year , never test ride one before the purchase and must say the right choice for me . Owned a Ktm 950/990s/1290/1200E /T7 & a 890r 2023 . All great bikes but the main decision was power and weight and the 701 has the great level for both technical off road and road sections . Mine is completely standard bar a 14tooth front sprocket & a new set of Michelin trackers to go on this week . Not lowered ( I have a 31ins leg measurement ) did not see the point as pre all the tall bikes I have been used to over the years . Amazing bike ,performs so well off road and easier to pick up . Everyone to there own conclusions in the biking world but loving every minute of it 💪👍
Hey! Nice! Yeah the 701 seems to be misunderstood fairly often, but if you want something lighter than an ADV bike, with an awesome power to weight ratio that can do everything from hwy to single track. The 701 is impossible to beat!
I had the early version (LC4 640) I have always loved this platform. For me its a KTm that breaks the mold of KTM dual sports in having great service intervals and solid reliability.
I could see the 690/701's selling a lot better if they came with a bigger tank and bigger seat. Great bike but it just sucks to have to throw cash at an already pricey bike.
This is why I have more than one guitar! They each bring something to the table. Bikes are the same. Saying that, have you thought about a Triumph Scrambler?
To each their own. Obviously this is an outstanding bike for you, the enthusiasm is epic. I’m only interested in people with passion for their bike. Perhaps those blokes are a bit wide sweeping in their disparaging comments.
I had a 2020 FE501, that I bought used with 225 miles on it. I tried to like it, but it was too much of a dirt bike. Engine response was very twitchy, and it was not good at all on the road. Sold it for more than I had into it and bought my current 2021 701 Enduro. The noise the engine makes doesn’t bother me in the least, but I always wear ear plugs when riding. I did put a fuel dongle on that keeps the 02 sensor but makes the bike run a little richer. With that and otherwise stock intake, exhaust and gearing, the bike runs great for me. I value the quietness of the exhaust more than I would another HP or two. I did not like the stock WP xplor forks. They were too harsh on smaller bumps and too weak on bigger ones. To fix that, I bought two adjustable base valves from earlier KTMs with normal Open Cartridge forks, and the necessary stock parts to make the left leg damper internals identical to the right one, which is a normal mid-valve with a rebound damping stack and a compression damping stack with float. I also replaced the left side damper’s hydraulic stop cone with one from the right side that doesn’t have the holes drilled in it. All of these parts cost me about $150, plus my own free labor, but now the forks work well, as they should have from the factory. Next up is addressing the shock. Is the 701 perfect for everyone? Of course not. All bikes need customizing to the owner. But, in my opinion, the 701 enduro it is the best, most capable, true dual-sport, light adventure bike you can buy, and believe me I have ridden a lot of them.
I have a KTM 500 EXC-F and can shred basically any type of trail terrain on the TKC 80s aired down a bit. Not sure why you think they’re bad couldn’t be that much different on a 701 or 690 enduro
Honestly I think I'm just used to tires like the D-Sports at this point, so anything less aggressive feels too slippery in the mud and snow. Also, I'm way too lazy to air down, so that's probably a pretty big factor 🤣
You ride what cha ride & it's you deciding what YOUR want/needs are, then ya, "Just Do It " ! At the stage I'm at in life I can't afford the Husqvarna/KTM's but I would want them for the maintenance requirements. Some of the top end checks are too often & expensive for my situation plus you gotta be without while the dealer does whatEVER it is that they do. I do think they are tough bikes, good looking & strong motors but it wasn't mine to decide.... Enjoy it. peace
i own a 2023 701 it is perfect for what is intended for 50 miles of highway all day on off road and single track it is exceptional . if there is something better please tell me ,
I’m glad you posted this. Dork in the Road usually does a good job. But, he rushed getting out his “impression” video without considering several things. The 690 is a bike designed by its manufacturer with expectations that it will be customized by the buyers. There’s no reason to make it more expensive with parts that are just going to be customized later. Dork in the Road should do an actual review on one that has been customized to do the type of riding he’d use the bike for.
I don’t know what to do. I have a 23 701 and your right 60mph is the sweet spot really on road. But off road this thing is just too much. I’m thinking 350s. 60 mph on road and can do single track
My previous bike was DRZ-400S. Moving back to Europe soon and planning on getting the KTM 690 Enduro R for the similar reasons what you said. Looking to get something that is still somewhat on the same ballpark with the DRZ-400S in weight (not 200kg+ behemoth), that would be OK for some longer adventures, but is also not a total slouch off-road/on trails. There is no perfect bike for all conditions, so you have to compromise. I would personally prefer to have something with a bit less weight, but the added weight vs. DRZ is not that huge I would think. I was thinking also about EXC 500, but the service intervals etc. scared me off from that. CRF-300L Rally might also be an option, but by the time you've fixed the suspension etc. you've spent also quite a bit off money for something that weighs in the same ballpark, but doesn't have all the modern goodies.
I spent some time on a 2017 690R. I loved the power of the bike! I ended up riding that bike more off road in the desert than dual sporting. I took it on a 500 mile d/s ride and I did not like it. Mostly just because of comfort on long stretches of hwy. I found the seat to be fine. Just the wind mostly. I am pretty sure I had the wrong helmet on that ride, which made it pretty bad with the wind. I ride dirt bikes mostly so it felt like a huge dirt bike to me. It could climb some pretty impressive hills. I wish that I could put this motor in my 23 KLR. That would be my unicorn. I agree about having a several motorcycles. I am currently using my 23 WR450F as my dual sport. It pretty much replaced my 690. I would not mind having another 690/701 in the garage though.
I have just under 20k miles on my 2020 690, and if I could have only one bike it would be it. Another confusion factor is that US TAT and BDRs are rather designed for big bikes, whereas the extensive TET trails in Europe are designed for much smaller bikes. So, for an "adventure bike" in Europe, the 690/701 is about the largest you can go, and anything twin cylinder or over 160kg probably ain't gonna cut it.
I have test rode '21 701 and an AJP PR7. I picked the AJP. Since I was really beginner in '21, not really sure why, (except the engine sound, stock seat, etc). The PR7 seemed more beginner friendly.
Price is the main obstacle to me even looking at a husky or ktm. Twice the power for twice the cash compared to Japanese thumpers just doesn’t fit in my life right now.
I find it so comical the comments that say that OBVIOUSLY, the people who dislike this bike are those who don’t have the skill to ride it! Lol, their way of thinking couldn’t be any more flawed! Coming from someone who raced the 125/250/500 class MX bikes from the 80’s and 90’s, which were all 2 stroke for me, I stopped racing around the time of the new technology in 4 strokes were introduced to the game, there is no bike that I can’t ride, and put through its paces! I’m not saying I can jump on any bike and dominate it, because it just doesn’t work like that, but at 51, I just choose not to ride a bike that feels like a box of rocks on an everyday basis. ! I would challenge any of these fools with their flawed mindset to a couple of rounds on the MX track, on the bike of their choice, and then we’ll see who’s lacking in experience and skill!
True. Bikes are only "fast" on a straight away. Just about everything else is the rider. I just like this bike because it reminds me of when I had a sport bike 🤣
You have the 2016, which does not have the counter balancer, sorry bro. The new motor with that option was in 2017, so that bike will have much less vibration.
@OffTheBeatenPage I mean, maybe it's a little attention grabbing, but it's how I feel about the bike after I bought it. I like it, but with updates definitely coming in the next few years buying one new doesn't make any sense.
Try the motoz tractionator s/t tires. Probably the best dualsport tires on the market. I'm rolling with the s/t front & i/t rear right now. The i/t's are getting chewed up pretty quickly but they are almost a Gummy tire.
2018 has the extra counterbalancer + extra 3 CCs and extra HP. The box of rocks sound is true too haha i thought something was wrong for the longest. Check your recalls
It's inherently unfair to compare a thumper to a multi-cylinder bike. You trade weight savings for on-road comfort. I have a 2000 KLX 300R and a 2006 KTM 640 Adventure -- the KLX motor is smoother but I wouldn't be inclined to undertake a BDR on it. The 640 Adventure will do a BDR nicely and, since 80%+ of BDRs are off-road, you don't notice the vibrations between the trail surface and the bike - which has great suspension, brakes, chassis and 7.5 gallons of fuel slung low. Since I'm not a YT influencer, I don't need to have the newest rig. BTW, I'm 5-9, 175 pounds and 66 years young.
I agree. If I had some extra money laying around, I would definitely buy a 701. Light enough for moderate off roading, powerful enough for the street, optional passenger pegs... Great all around bike. It's a huge single. It's going to vibrate so people should get over it.
@@ogregang3203 I sound silly? I've seen people do lots of things too. I was talking about what I would do with it. I have a dirt bike that I use for woods and single track riding. That's not really what a 701 is for. Can some do that stuff with it? Sure. Can I? No. If you can, good for you. Not sure why you're busting my balls about a comment that I made because I have an opinion about something.
I'm baffled by all the noise complaints... I don't notice it, nor do I care. It's just a quirk, as all bikes have. It's a great bike, with a great power to weight ratio. And it may "never be an adventure bike," but I've done many BDR-adventures and seen plenty of others doing the same with it... Although it definitely needs some updates (TFT, lighting, etc.), and it's not super comfy, it makes up for it with it's light weight.
This is the unicorn ADV hidden in plain sight. You can't define them by number of cylinders. The latest versions of this bike have very little vibes due to the dual balancers, gobs of power everywhere and sips gas if ridden conservatively. Put a shorty screen on it , change saddle if arse demands it, go ride everything.
As a Dork defender, you are way younger and lighter and maybe a better rider! The wheelie at the beginning shows me that this bike is for you. At Dorks age and skill level, it’s not for him. At 65, it is probably too much for me too!
I’m having the hardest time deciding what I want to do. Got a KLR 650 and I’m leaning pretty heavily towards the drz 400. I could maybe get convinced to a Dr 640, but dang…. The compromises make me sad.
It's a large freakin dirt bike end of story, anyone who doesn't grasp that needs a head wobble FTR it was never conceived to be an 'adventure bike' , although if arguing semantics we would say that any bike capable of travel is capable of being an adv. Personally i would rather suffer a little on road than suffer a lot off road which is why i choose dirtbikes with road capabilities
Great foundation for a lite adventure bike with an offroad focus EXCEPT FOR THE PRICE!! When you add the cost of the bike with the upgrades!! Just too expensive!
I never considered the klr as a dual sport due to the fact it's too much road bike,the klr would have been a entry level adv bike if it where to come out as a new model today.that said the 701 is a true dual sport that has a small grey area towards the adv segment due to its power, weight and aftermarket.its a blank canvas
@SwankyCatProductions ya know what would be cool and interesting is if you took all three of these bikes out on a short adv ride and overnighter,give us all a good metric on how they truly perform as a adv loaded down on a windy highway. Mpgs, top speed and acceleration would be great measurements. I'd recon that the average adv rider probably carries 60 lbs of gear on the bike .
It wasn't worth buying FOR THEM! Not every person wants or needs the same bike. What works for one persons riding style, terrain and ability might not be a good fit for someone else.
No swiss army knife bike out there......I really like a test that says ....for me, or my riding preference, or my riding style....those are the true test because my riding is different than yours. Keep the honest content coming. Garth
Ironically on your test route , I think my Versys 650 would have been in its element . Would have liked to see how this supposed off road weapon handled serious stuff.😊
On this ride? Or my dual sport test circuit? Either way I'd definitely agree, a Versys would definitely have gotten the job done. Here though, I'd take the 701 any day! ruclips.net/video/PzWAKdNUOwY/видео.html
I always though these 690/701 were unicorns, the perfect do it all bikes, but in a world where you can get a great used 390 adv for 5k or less.....that will tackle highways, offroad, singletrack nicely, fun to ride, lightweight, I cant seem to justify a 13k+ dual sport just because I want "more power". I also have a 2022 Beta 300 2T and a 2023 300 XCw, I guess because I already have great fast enduro bikes, I dont see the need for a crazy dual sport.
Yeah it's definitely sort of an odd duck amongst the other bikes out there. It's really just a faster version of the other two bikes I've got now, the DR and XR which certainly don't make sense for everyone, but do filt the needs of guys like me.
Being an owner of a 23 ES 700, I actually agree with the dork on this one. Don't get me wrong, it's a fun hooligan bike, the motor is awesome. But, for me, the ergos suck. Takes all the fun out of off-road. But that's just my opinion.
I think I paid $6900 or so for mine about a year ago from a private party with 7,000 ish miles. Not sure if the 690 had the clutch slave cylinder issue or not but that's about the only big issue I'm aware of.
Haven't had a chance to ride one yet, but from what I gather it's an awesome lighter weight version that's more off road capable, but still able to tackle the hwy with relative ease.
@SwankyCatProductions, I’m curious about the maintenance of these bikes. The salesperson I met last week mentioned that you need to change the oil every ten hours, but when I researched it, I found that this typically refers to racing hours, like in full-throttle competition. However, this was what the salesperson told me, and he recommended the 701 model. I spoke with someone who rode the 501 and learned that he went 7,000 miles with only 12-15 oil changes instead of the expected 20. How often do you typically change the oil on your bikes, even if you have not ridden this specific model maybe you have had similar bikes to maintain and care for with a lot better knowledge about it than me? With winter approaching and the chance of snow soon, I'm reconsidering this aspect. What if you're caught in the rain at 37 degrees Fahrenheit and need to change the oil? Is it a significant concern in practical terms when owning a bike like this and want to get out of the country to feel freedom and travel in all sorts of terrains? I’m just starting to learn about these types of bikes. Would it be as simple as bringing a couple of liters of oil, finding some shelter like under a tree, and getting it done in 20 min, or are there other maintenance issues I should be aware of with riding bikes like these? Thanks for your insights!
I've come to the conclusion that we all have different preferences. And also that no matter what bike you buy you will be, in SOME FASHION, left wanting.
Check out my DRZ build. Its about as advernturey as you can get with a DRZ. Im about your build as well but older, more miles in seats. Been riding street since i was 14 years old. Im 54 now. Hard to believ over my lifetime of riding everything from crotch rockets to cruisers....my DRZ400 is my all time fav. Ungodly reliable. Will cruise at 80 mph all day with correct sprockets or do single track with the best of them with correct sprockets. If you want to spend little more, pay for a fishersaddlebags seat. Best seat for dual sports. All custom made up to a foot wide, thick or thin, foam density to match your weight and riding style. I still need one of those seats. But yeah. For some a 700ish cc dual sport is perfect. Some a GS1300 is perfect. So far. 54,000 miles with pretty much zero issues. The DRZ is my perfect bike. There is literally nothing but 2-up, that it cant do. I have ridden it on the freeway homw from Salt Lake City to north of Seattle, WA. 80mph passing semi trucks. All loaded to the gills. Have done WABDR. IDAHO BDR 2 times and about to run it this summer with my DRZ and my buddies new 2023 DRZ400SM. Videos to follow.
I hesitate to recommend the Crf450rl to anyone. Its expensive new and needs new tires, an ECU, Exhaust system, and evap delete system to make it run good. Ends up being another $2,000 on upgrades to have it “rideable” And I would know, bought one brand new and had it a year.
Different stroke for different folks, I guess. I've had mine for a year and a half and it's my favorite bike I've ever owned because it's the most versatile. All I've done is get crash protection, tires for the terrain I ride and how I use the bike (what bike comes with universally appropriate tires?), an AIM ECU, Seat Concepts seat, and springs for my weight.
The real question here is why give any credence at all to what those guys say? It appears that the value proposition for both channels is ignorance rather than expertise. I've seen both those guys be substantially wrong about bikes with which I have personal experience. There are plenty of RUclips presenters who have real expertise. These two are best ignored.
I mean, I have ridden over a hundred different bikes... I'm not the best, but I know what I like, and I love *MY* 690. Very important detail. I own mine. It's my second one too.
I love my 690 but if I could justify the expense....I'd have a 500exc and an 890r. For those guys that need one bike to do it all......the 690 platform is great.
Yeah definitely! I think most people who dislike these bikes just don't see the value in how versatile they are. Versatility comes with compromise, but there's very little these bikes can't do well. Maybe not the best bike for the job, but the best bike for all the jobs!
Keep it man! Of course i'm biased and not a youtuber lol but theres not alot out there on the 690/701/700 bikes, theres some though......dork's just upset honda didn't make that bike 😂
Have a 701 SM that I don't think I will ever sell. There's nothing in it's league besides maybe the new Ducati or a road legal YZ. It's definitely not an Adventure bike. But I am a MORON.
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I've come to the conclusion that every rider needs a dirt bike, a dual sport, an adventure bike, a street bike, a cruiser and a minivan and a truck & trailer to finally be happy.
I'd trade the minivan for a Class C motorhome ... about 23 feet long. You're self-contained with some conveniences and tow your dirt bike and dual sport to the Rally to enjoy the rides without being beat to death getting there.
Just set a rule that you take nothing over 400lbs off road. Problem solved. LOL Every single person looking for a dirt bike / dual sport that they can tour on will always be disappointed. Unless they don’t know any better. 😂
And a snowmobile, a personal watercraft, a SxS (UTV), and a ski 3:19 boat.
Correct lol
And if you live near the water, a flat/Jon boat, a party barge, a speed boat, and a pleasure/fish & ski... That should cover all the bases...
I only trust reviews from people that own them and ride them. Getting a press bike and making a vid doesn’t cut it for me personally. Solid video man.
I agree. Seems like those two read the reviews for the bikes (Dork tends to really mimic Big Rock Moto), write the review, then find a bike they can ride once for video footage for the review.
Seems the reviews are just ways to get a video out for the algorithm and product/advertising revenue. It's their 9-5 day job.
Rode my 701 from MN to West Virginia, then rode the eastern part of the tat. Turned for home down in Corinth Mississippi.
Quiet backroads, dirt roads, forest roads, rocky hills, water crossings, 900+ miles of freeway, the bike handles everything.
Sounds like an awesome adventure!
A lot of bikes can do that. What's your point? Can the 701 do that every summer for the next 10 or 15 years?
@@IRLtrollswhat’s your point?
The maintenance intervals are a big reason that I bought my 701 over the EXC-F, 501, or the Honda CRF45OL. I did put a rally tower on mine.
Hey man, love your work. I actually watched a ton of your KLR stuff when I was thinking about getting my Gen 3. I do want to elaborate on a few points, though. I'm actually on my 2nd 690, I owned an SMCR, and now the Enduro R. I bought the bike for like $1500 off MSRP since its a year old. I totally get the mods thing, but i dont think that excuses KTM from charging $13K for a new bike you *have* to mod when they have LED blinkers, a better dash, and hard plastic grips already on the shelves at the factory. Also, the moron point was due to the fact that I bought at what I expect to be the end of a generational life cycle. With the Ducati Mono dual sport all but confirmed with all the stuff the KTM needs for less cash (I assume based on the sumo price), KTM is going to be forced to upgrade.
Oh and my cases started leaking with 80 miles on the clock 😂 Keep the manual. Still love the bike though. Great video. 👍
Wow, thanks man! I really appreciate that!!! I'm a little embarrassed to admit I didn't realize the SMCR was a sumo 690 😅 for some reason I thought you were taking about a 610 or something. In regards to the lights and handguards, I totally agree that it's ridiculous that manufacturers put such junky equipment on bikes. I've just given up on caring for my own sanity 🤣. The dash is just ridiculous though! It'll be interesting to see what happens with the platform after a few other options hit the market, but my guess is KTM/Husky will still sell overpriced, over powered dual sports for lunatics like us! 😂. Ride safe and often brother!!!
@SwankyCatProductions hopefully with new competition they'll at least figure out the torque specs for their cases and keep the oil inside 🤣, but man do I love this dumb bike
As a 701 owner I agree with a lot of what you've said. I haven't lowered mine or ridden a lowered one but I feel comfortable and confident on it, even in corners. I do agree with the consensus that this bike can be a tough sell. The price new + the cost of all the upgrades make it hard to justify. I got an insanely good deal on a used one which is the only reason why I can afford one. I think that this bike is the unicorn platform. I'm not gonna call it the unicorn bike but I do think it's currently the best foundation to build a unicorn.
I've got a '17 690 with a Yenkro tower/fairing, Safari Tank, renazco seat, etc, etc. My 17 still has the full dash, which was something I really wanted. The fairing makes the bike easily capable of cruising at 80mph+. What almost all the reviewers miss on this bike is that it's NOT an adv bike, OR a dirt bike. It's a dual sport, and it does that really well. These are best bought used, after the previous owner has done all the farkles, then sold it because it wasn't the adv or dirt bike they expected. Then you get an amazing bike for short cash.
100% agreed!!! Ugh, yeah I should have tried to find one with all that already done.
@@SwankyCatProductions definitely. Bought mine 3 years old, completely built, with 1250 miles on it. He spent a ton of time and money building it, only to never ride it
I had a 690 (basically the same) it was an amazing bike!
The bike is more wild than mild. It is certainly set up for performance instead of comfort. Some like it the other way. To each their own.
In 2019, they added a counter balancer in the head to help with the harsh vibrations.
The newer versions are definitely smoother.
To each his own. I enjoy the reviews and opinions...but at times it seems like we're trying to debate what kind of music is "best"
11k miles on my 701 with about every upgrade you can do, and it's an absolute weapon. In stock form definitely needed a few things to meet peoples expectations. I was a little surprised by dork's review, but I think the 690/701 deserves more time on the bike to really appreciate it, especially on more off-road terrain.
Ditto - I love my ‘21 701 and have pretty much every mod you can do to one. I first rode a ‘19 and was off put by the 2x4 seat and tallness coming from a 990. That ‘19 had fueling problems but the dealer let me ride it enough that it grew on me. I found a new ‘21 and built from there. 10k miles later still happy with it.
Almost every response I've seen is that it's not really the best out the door option, but after all the mods to make it yours, it's a great bike. I've had one on my list for a while. Still want one.
@MotoCampNerd agree. Although I just rode my buddies new 2024 690 and I forgot how light a stock one feels! But that stock seat....absolutely awful!
yo what year is it? 2018 has a recall for the camshaft decompressors mine just shot out of my engine on the highway im lucky the weight and spring shot out of the engine it still runs perfect waiting on the replacement decompression kit
@@Merc399 yep! Same here. I have a few videos on my channel. It had the recall done but still happened and had to replace the camshaft assembly.
Well said! I own a 2023 701 Enduro with many tasty bolt ons as well as the Rottweiler Air Intake with a Power Commander and Wings Exhausts. The bike kick ass...
It takes the right skills to appreciate this moto. They obviously don't have them. This bike is a beautiful thing. If you can't appreciate it, stick to the 300 crf's of the world. Put on your big boy pants to rally this thing. Proud owner of a 23 701. Yes, it needs to be tweaked and set-up for your body and riding style, but once you get there.... it's a beautiful thing. I also own a 1290 sas for touring. This is not a touring bike no matter what people say. It's just not, but for day tripping in the dirt. Nothing compares.
AWESOME COMBO !!!!!!! i did have at one time a 450EXC and an 1190r but currently only 1 bike a well set up husky 901 , i do miss the 1190 on the highway and the 450 sometimes off road bu
Nailed it. My current fleet is the 23 500 EXC-F for Off-roading, short trips, 23 690 SMC-R for track/twisties, and 23 1290 SAS for long hauls and BDRs.
Gotta get the right tool for the job, or you will always be complaining about compromises!
Is it you or your ego that needs to ride this bike?
If you like it then good for you, no one needs to tell others what to ride or call them names.
And rally? No you can't cut off is at 450 sorry
Few people own the 690/701 long term.they’ll tell you how great they are but the wear owners down. Hot potato bike if there ever was one.
@@HankRearden that is not my experience nor the experiences of any actual owners ive met honestly and ive met quite a few..... i might just be lucky i guess ? well and only meet other lucky people ?
I said it wasn't worth purchasing FOR ME. But...you knew that...get your clicks fellow Ben. ;)
You are not as a popular “influencer” as you think. Your idea of adventure riding is riding on flat dirt roads.
@@ogregang3203 So am I unpopular or a bad rider? Make up your mind.
Imagine clicking on a video from a guy named "Dork in the Road" and being surprised that he sucks. Absolute genius.
I mean I have no money to purchase either but if anybody has a 650L or a 701 they could give me for free, I'd greatly appreciate it.
@@DorkintheRoad Alright, you got me on that one 😂😂
🤣 Haha yeah, you caught me! Thanks for understanding Ben! I actually totally get your 1st reaction. I wish I'd have elaborated on this more, but I felt really uncomfortable on mine for a long time. There's just such a disconnect between the odd sound it makes and the amount of power going to the rear wheel. It was like learning to ride/shift all over again. I do really think you'd have liked it better if it was lowered a bit though. While I've never ridden a stock one, the improvements I noticed dropping my XR only 1" have to carry over and I'll bet that's partly why I like mine so much now. All that being said, it is just an over priced dual sport for guys like me who miss there stupid fast sport bikes 🤣. Take care and ride safe my friend!!!
I just got a 2021 690 enduro r from a gentleman that had some circumstances come up and had to sell it. I’ve put about a 100 miles on it and am not disappointed at all! He did put several mods on it. I did order a lowering link for my short ass and some wheel weights so I can balance the tires for road running. He did put dampening handle bar risers on it and I have ZERO vibrations in the bars even running 70 with 80/20 tires on it. I was impressed. I’ll be putting under seat fuel tank on it, rage garage tower and the bike will be complete. I’m used to riding a street bike for the last 9 years with no windscreen so riding 65 doesn’t bother me one bit on the 690. They complain about putting mods on the bike but who buys a bike and doesn’t mod it?!
More than you think !
I think the people who don’t like it are mainly coming from the ADV world, and the people who love it are coming from mainly dirt experience. I’ve been riding dirt my whole life, I grew up on gnarly mountain trails, which I still ride, and wanted something that I could still ride aggressively, while allowing me to explore further and have less maintenance intervals. I just got mine two weeks ago and am in the process of fine tuning it, but it’s a monster and I’ve already thrown some SERIOUS terrain at it. It’s the absolute perfect bike for me.
I have a 2019 KTM 690 in the US with Nomad rally tower, bar risers, range extender tank and several other items that made a 4,200 mile ride a couple of weeks back superb. On and off road. At home in the UK I have a 2023 701 Enduro awaiting those same mods. Both engines are very smooth for the huge singles that they are. The power pulses from the 690 are way less smooth than the 701 which I believe is the difference in the cush drives which seems pretty limited on the KTM and softer cush rubbers and design of the 701. The bars on both have a tingling buzz over around 60mph and, for me, need bar damping. I’m no off-roader but the non road manners are excellent and the bikes are so light compared to the middleweight adventure bikes I’m used to, my KTM 890 no exception. Once the Husky is properly equipped the 890 will be moving on, great bike though it is. Just not for me. And that’s really the point. We all want different things and our priorities therefore dictate unless we have a bike for all eventualities (plus a trailer with each on hand). Sadly that lottery win never came. Enjoy your 701!!
Well said! I'd sure like to get a rally tower on mine one of these days... perhaps I'll do that and just keep it 🤣. I definitely like it better off road than my old Tenere! So much more fun!
The bike everyone forgets is the Husky TR650. BMW motor, retuned for higher compression. Basically a G650 that goes harder and doesn’t look like a 90s van. And they are a steal, mostly because you have to be a competent mechanic and prepared for no off the shelf parts.
Huh, interesting I'll have to keep an eye out for those!
I have a 23 690 and it’s my favorite bike at the moment. (Have a 23 890 adv r, Duke R and 24 Husqvarna 300).
That engine (uncorked) is mental fun, it handles fast two lane country roads like a motard and is blast on rougher two track jeep trails and forest service roads. Which is what I have to ride in my area… so it’s *my* unicorn for sure.
I own a 2022 KTM 690 enduro r, and it is absolutely a blast to ride! I'm not sure what Dork in the road was expecting? The newer 690s don't vibrate any more or less than any other big single cylinder motorcycles! Once the 690/701 is tuned properly they run absolutely Phenomenal! I've redden my 690 on many different off road adventures including many parts of the Oregon BDR, it's the bike I choose to use on most of my off road adventures. With that said it's not bike for beginners or for very technical single track, but for most off-road riding the 690/701 platform is a great option for a big dual sport motorcycle. I also own 2023 T7 and it also works very well for it designed too do, but it's no where close to the off-road capabilities of the 690/701 platform. To each their own. Everyone who rides a motorcycle should ride whatever bike they feel comfortable with. This is just my opinion.
It's all the tinkering those bikes need .
I think you make valid points. You seem to think deeply about the nuances of riding and your musings remind me of Zack Courts’. His philosophical ramblings about the intricacies of riding are much more entertaining than whatever bike he happens to be on. I agree that are no bad motorcycles, but sometimes they do need a little help to realize their full potential. The XR is pretty badass lowered btw.
Thank you!!! I certainly do like overthinking things, but sometimes that really comes in handy! Dual sports especially seem to always need a few things to make them fit. I never thought lowering would be one of them, but man I like my XR so much more now! Even looks cooler I think!
Nice! More 701 content. I already commented on Dorks video. I think he'd really like the 690 if he put a few hundred miles on it. Took me a bit to really "get" my 701..
I have had my 2023 for 9 months and 2300 miles. No bike is perfect and either is the 701/690. It is not a highway cruiser. But it will run at 70 easily and it is a lot of fun on back roads and 50 MPH speed limit roads. It is very capable off road and with the Rottweiler Dongle can ride slow through the technical stuff no problem. It also has enough power to load up camping gear and me and ride without issue. I was looking at the 501 for more off road but decided I wanted the longer maintenance intervals. I also ride 6-8 hour days most weekends and it is not the most comfortable but is not bad and I have the stock seat. I think this is a great dual sport with good road capabilities. I have a review and many riding videos on my channel with more detail. This is a bike worth buying and has only been fun and extremely capable for me.
Well said! Mines got a fuel dongle as well, I really should've mentioned that in this video as I'll bet it does make a very noticeable difference. Unfortunately I've not had any experience without it, so I often forget about it 😂
it is always a compromise between on road prowess & comfort vs off road ability
I'm still waiting for a CRF500 rally. I think the Husky/KTM 700ish is just made for a very specific purpose unlike a lot of other bikes that have a more all around use. There is also the point of how many people will actually use enough of the power to make a difference between the 700s and all other cheaper dual sports/ADV bikes.
I have a heavily modified 22' KLR adventure and i love it.. i wish it had a bit more power and a 6th gear but, i wish i was 6'2" and 215 but im not 😂 its fine for what it is and i love the way i made it look.. enjoy your toy!!
Everyone has different likes, expectations, needs and wants of a motorcycle. What fits one person may not fit another. Much like the old bikes I have and ride, some people like the vintage bike while others want the modern cruiser, sport bike, adv, dual sport, etc. I think the 701 is cool, just haven't ridden one. Used to ride my dad's 83' Husqvarna wr250 in the woods. What a good dirt bike that was. I keep eyeballing the Norden though, I might have to get one.
Oh and by the way. I have 30 inch inseam and lowered mine at about 1500miles on it. Now with 54,000 miles on it, i have had zero issues with it. I vote to lower. People taht argue over it dont really makes sense. They say it effects the suspension....well yes. Thats true, it effects it about the same as running an empty gas tank versus a full has tank. With gear on board and no gear onboard. Two up or one up. Literally not one motorcycle is perfect suspension every time you ride it. Way more argument for it than against it. Therr is a reason its a multi-million dollar per year industry. It works.
How much did you lower it? How much did it cost? I have the same inseam and want to lower mine
Nice!!! That's some awesome data! Thank you! 100%, if you don't need the extra ground clearance, LOWER IS BETTER! It's not a mud truck, it's a motorcycle!
I own a 701. I am a moron.
I wanted to buy a Tenere 700 at the time but I couldn't find one.
The 701 has been fun!
I own a t7 and love it. I want a 701 also. I think they are badass
you got a 120 pound lighter bike with the same horsepower and ten times better stock suspension than a T7 !! well done
T7 is boring. Styling is awesome but otherwise doesn’t feel like it has much soul to me. Boring power delivery and average suspension. I had one for a couple of years. Would love to get a 701.
@@blade1535 i wanted really really bad to like the tenere 700 , i imagined aftermarket suspension aftermarket brake upgrades this and that but no matter how much money you throw at it your never going to change the fact that it weighs the same as an 890 but only 72hp and top heavy feel
Very true!
My 890 suspension is far better than my T7 suspension was even after new springs and race tech gold valves
@justsomedude445
I dont have a dog in this fight. I bought the 501s and I LOVE IT. It does vibrate and mine sounds like a box of rocks too.
Way more vibes on the 701 than 500.
@@HankRearden i thought the other way around but I havent ridden them.
Dork thought it was going to easily carry him three hours down the freeway in complete comfort which is an unrealistic expectation. He realized it really is just a thumper with a ton of power.
I think it all too often gets talked up like it's this awesome adventure machine and while it certainly is, it is NOT an adventure bike.
Hi there Swanky cat ,
purchased a new 701 back in March this year , never test ride one before the purchase and must say the right choice for me . Owned a Ktm 950/990s/1290/1200E /T7 & a 890r 2023 . All great bikes but the main decision was power and weight and the 701 has the great level for both technical off road and road sections . Mine is completely standard bar a 14tooth front sprocket & a new set of Michelin trackers to go on this week . Not lowered ( I have a 31ins leg measurement ) did not see the point as pre all the tall bikes I have been used to over the years .
Amazing bike ,performs so well off road and easier to pick up . Everyone to there own conclusions in the biking world but loving every minute of it 💪👍
Hey! Nice! Yeah the 701 seems to be misunderstood fairly often, but if you want something lighter than an ADV bike, with an awesome power to weight ratio that can do everything from hwy to single track. The 701 is impossible to beat!
I had the early version (LC4 640) I have always loved this platform. For me its a KTm that breaks the mold of KTM dual sports in having great service intervals and solid reliability.
Nice! Yeah I definitely like that part of it! Has longer valve check intervals than my XR!
I could see the 690/701's selling a lot better if they came with a bigger tank and bigger seat. Great bike but it just sucks to have to throw cash at an already pricey bike.
This is why I have more than one guitar! They each bring something to the table. Bikes are the same. Saying that, have you thought about a Triumph Scrambler?
To each their own. Obviously this is an outstanding bike for you, the enthusiasm is epic. I’m only interested in people with passion for their bike. Perhaps those blokes are a bit wide sweeping in their disparaging comments.
You are absolutely spot-on with your analysis!
I got about 13,000 mi on this platform. Between three different 690s.
You know, with a Honda or Yamaha you could put that many miles on a single bike 😆
I had a 2020 FE501, that I bought used with 225 miles on it. I tried to like it, but it was too much of a dirt bike. Engine response was very twitchy, and it was not good at all on the road. Sold it for more than I had into it and bought my current 2021 701 Enduro.
The noise the engine makes doesn’t bother me in the least, but I always wear ear plugs when riding. I did put a fuel dongle on that keeps the 02 sensor but makes the bike run a little richer. With that and otherwise stock intake, exhaust and gearing, the bike runs great for me. I value the quietness of the exhaust more than I would another HP or two.
I did not like the stock WP xplor forks. They were too harsh on smaller bumps and too weak on bigger ones. To fix that, I bought two adjustable base valves from earlier KTMs with normal Open Cartridge forks, and the necessary stock parts to make the left leg damper internals identical to the right one, which is a normal mid-valve with a rebound damping stack and a compression damping stack with float. I also replaced the left side damper’s hydraulic stop cone with one from the right side that doesn’t have the holes drilled in it. All of these parts cost me about $150, plus my own free labor, but now the forks work well, as they should have from the factory. Next up is addressing the shock.
Is the 701 perfect for everyone? Of course not. All bikes need customizing to the owner. But, in my opinion, the 701 enduro it is the best, most capable, true dual-sport, light adventure bike you can buy, and believe me I have ridden a lot of them.
I have a KTM 500 EXC-F and can shred basically any type of trail terrain on the TKC 80s aired down a bit. Not sure why you think they’re bad couldn’t be that much different on a 701 or 690 enduro
They’ll say ‘mud’ but if you’re riding mud that’s too much for TKCs then it’s not worth it on any tire. Moto tires are 90% fashion.
Honestly I think I'm just used to tires like the D-Sports at this point, so anything less aggressive feels too slippery in the mud and snow. Also, I'm way too lazy to air down, so that's probably a pretty big factor 🤣
Your getting bigger man you are doing so well now man congrats.
You ride what cha ride & it's you deciding what YOUR want/needs are, then ya, "Just Do It " ! At the stage I'm at in life I can't
afford the Husqvarna/KTM's but I would want them for the maintenance requirements. Some of the top end checks are too
often & expensive for my situation plus you gotta be without while the dealer does whatEVER it is that they do. I do think
they are tough bikes, good looking & strong motors but it wasn't mine to decide.... Enjoy it. peace
i own a 2023 701 it is perfect for what is intended for 50 miles of highway all day on off road and single track it is exceptional . if there is something better please tell me ,
I’m glad you posted this. Dork in the Road usually does a good job. But, he rushed getting out his “impression” video without considering several things. The 690 is a bike designed by its manufacturer with expectations that it will be customized by the buyers. There’s no reason to make it more expensive with parts that are just going to be customized later. Dork in the Road should do an actual review on one that has been customized to do the type of riding he’d use the bike for.
I don’t know what to do. I have a 23 701 and your right 60mph is the sweet spot really on road. But off road this thing is just too much. I’m thinking 350s. 60 mph on road and can do single track
My previous bike was DRZ-400S. Moving back to Europe soon and planning on getting the KTM 690 Enduro R for the similar reasons what you said. Looking to get something that is still somewhat on the same ballpark with the DRZ-400S in weight (not 200kg+ behemoth), that would be OK for some longer adventures, but is also not a total slouch off-road/on trails. There is no perfect bike for all conditions, so you have to compromise. I would personally prefer to have something with a bit less weight, but the added weight vs. DRZ is not that huge I would think. I was thinking also about EXC 500, but the service intervals etc. scared me off from that. CRF-300L Rally might also be an option, but by the time you've fixed the suspension etc. you've spent also quite a bit off money for something that weighs in the same ballpark, but doesn't have all the modern goodies.
I spent some time on a 2017 690R. I loved the power of the bike! I ended up riding that bike more off road in the desert than dual sporting. I took it on a 500 mile d/s ride and I did not like it. Mostly just because of comfort on long stretches of hwy. I found the seat to be fine. Just the wind mostly. I am pretty sure I had the wrong helmet on that ride, which made it pretty bad with the wind. I ride dirt bikes mostly so it felt like a huge dirt bike to me. It could climb some pretty impressive hills. I wish that I could put this motor in my 23 KLR. That would be my unicorn. I agree about having a several motorcycles. I am currently using my 23 WR450F as my dual sport. It pretty much replaced my 690. I would not mind having another 690/701 in the garage though.
I have just under 20k miles on my 2020 690, and if I could have only one bike it would be it. Another confusion factor is that US TAT and BDRs are rather designed for big bikes, whereas the extensive TET trails in Europe are designed for much smaller bikes. So, for an "adventure bike" in Europe, the 690/701 is about the largest you can go, and anything twin cylinder or over 160kg probably ain't gonna cut it.
Huh, that is really interesting! Definitely always important to buy the right bike for the job!
How much is your bike lowered?
I have test rode '21 701 and an AJP PR7. I picked the AJP. Since I was really beginner in '21, not really sure why, (except the engine sound, stock seat, etc). The PR7 seemed more beginner friendly.
My friend was considering one of these, a leftover 2023, but ended up getting a new DR650. I thought I might get a shot to try riding one.
The DR makes waaay more sense. The 701 is just too much fun though 😂
👍🏻👊🏻 I have a 701 SM and a 701 Enduro , along with 5 other bikes. 701s and 690s are my favorite.
Nice!!!
You could write many many books FULL of stuff Spite is WRONG about. Least deserving moto-content creator out there.
Price is the main obstacle to me even looking at a husky or ktm. Twice the power for twice the cash compared to Japanese thumpers just doesn’t fit in my life right now.
I find it so comical the comments that say that OBVIOUSLY, the people who dislike this bike are those who don’t have the skill to ride it! Lol, their way of thinking couldn’t be any more flawed! Coming from someone who raced the 125/250/500 class MX bikes from the 80’s and 90’s, which were all 2 stroke for me, I stopped racing around the time of the new technology in 4 strokes were introduced to the game, there is no bike that I can’t ride, and put through its paces! I’m not saying I can jump on any bike and dominate it, because it just doesn’t work like that, but at 51, I just choose not to ride a bike that feels like a box of rocks on an everyday basis. ! I would challenge any of these fools with their flawed mindset to a couple of rounds on the MX track, on the bike of their choice, and then we’ll see who’s lacking in experience and skill!
Exactly. I’ve see guys shred on 500 pound bikes. It’s more skill than bike. Period
True. Bikes are only "fast" on a straight away. Just about everything else is the rider. I just like this bike because it reminds me of when I had a sport bike 🤣
You have the 2016, which does not have the counter balancer, sorry bro. The new motor with that option was in 2017, so that bike will have much less vibration.
Yeah, that's why I was so surprised that they still said the newer ones vibrate so much.
Spite said HE was the moron for loving such a stripped down expensive bike; it was for clickbait and now getting taken out of context
I mean, I am a moron 😂. I decided to buy a 72K mile vmax for $700 because I hate myself apparently lol.
I think it's pretty obvious this title is also just for clicks and there's no actual hard feelings from anyone
@OffTheBeatenPage I mean, maybe it's a little attention grabbing, but it's how I feel about the bike after I bought it. I like it, but with updates definitely coming in the next few years buying one new doesn't make any sense.
@@spitescorner if so than so am i , one happy moron that is
I'm torn, debating selling my bike and switching to this. I just don't feel good riding hundreds of highway miles on my 501.
I've never been on one, so I can't say for sure. But the 701 motor sure seems to be ok with 70mph+.
The LC4 got a second counter balance shaft in 2019. I have 2019 690.
Try the motoz tractionator s/t tires. Probably the best dualsport tires on the market. I'm rolling with the s/t front & i/t rear right now. The i/t's are getting chewed up pretty quickly but they are almost a Gummy tire.
Nice! Yeah hard to go wrong with Motoz!
2018 has the extra counterbalancer + extra 3 CCs and extra HP. The box of rocks sound is true too haha i thought something was wrong for the longest. Check your recalls
It's inherently unfair to compare a thumper to a multi-cylinder bike. You trade weight savings for on-road comfort. I have a 2000 KLX 300R and a 2006 KTM 640 Adventure -- the KLX motor is smoother but I wouldn't be inclined to undertake a BDR on it. The 640 Adventure will do a BDR nicely and, since 80%+ of BDRs are off-road, you don't notice the vibrations between the trail surface and the bike - which has great suspension, brakes, chassis and 7.5 gallons of fuel slung low. Since I'm not a YT influencer, I don't need to have the newest rig. BTW, I'm 5-9, 175 pounds and 66 years young.
I agree. If I had some extra money laying around, I would definitely buy a 701. Light enough for moderate off roading, powerful enough for the street, optional passenger pegs... Great all around bike. It's a huge single. It's going to vibrate so people should get over it.
lol at “moderate off-roading”. I’ve seen people shred on 500 pound bikes. It’s more about rider skill. You sound silly.
@@ogregang3203 I sound silly? I've seen people do lots of things too. I was talking about what I would do with it. I have a dirt bike that I use for woods and single track riding. That's not really what a 701 is for. Can some do that stuff with it? Sure. Can I? No. If you can, good for you. Not sure why you're busting my balls about a comment that I made because I have an opinion about something.
@@heynow3788 lol ok fine, sorry about busting your balls. 😂
Well said!
I'm baffled by all the noise complaints... I don't notice it, nor do I care. It's just a quirk, as all bikes have. It's a great bike, with a great power to weight ratio. And it may "never be an adventure bike," but I've done many BDR-adventures and seen plenty of others doing the same with it... Although it definitely needs some updates (TFT, lighting, etc.), and it's not super comfy, it makes up for it with it's light weight.
Definitely! It sure sounds good when you really get on it!!!
Honestly just makes me wish Honda would finally make a modern version of the 650, XR700L water cooled with EFI
Ugh, I KNOW!
This is the unicorn ADV hidden in plain sight. You can't define them by number of cylinders. The latest versions of this bike have very little vibes due to the dual balancers, gobs of power everywhere and sips gas if ridden conservatively. Put a shorty screen on it , change saddle if arse demands it, go ride everything.
As a Dork defender, you are way younger and lighter and maybe a better rider! The wheelie at the beginning shows me that this bike is for you. At Dorks age and skill level, it’s not for him. At 65, it is probably too much for me too!
I’m having the hardest time deciding what I want to do. Got a KLR 650 and I’m leaning pretty heavily towards the drz 400. I could maybe get convinced to a Dr 640, but dang…. The compromises make me sad.
Drz isnot fuel injected...as soon as u raise elevation,it will start bogging down badly..maybe look at klx300 or crf300 rally.
I rode a 690 for a day and thought it was awesome. For the 12k price you got a lot of bang for your buck
It's a large freakin dirt bike end of story, anyone who doesn't grasp that needs a head wobble
FTR it was never conceived to be an 'adventure bike' , although if arguing semantics we would say that any bike capable of travel is capable of being an adv.
Personally i would rather suffer a little on road than suffer a lot off road which is why i choose dirtbikes with road capabilities
Great foundation for a lite adventure bike with an offroad focus EXCEPT FOR THE PRICE!! When you add the cost of the bike with the upgrades!! Just too expensive!
look at what you get for that price
I never considered the klr as a dual sport due to the fact it's too much road bike,the klr would have been a entry level adv bike if it where to come out as a new model today.that said the 701 is a true dual sport that has a small grey area towards the adv segment due to its power, weight and aftermarket.its a blank canvas
Agreed!
@SwankyCatProductions ya know what would be cool and interesting is if you took all three of these bikes out on a short adv ride and overnighter,give us all a good metric on how they truly perform as a adv loaded down on a windy highway. Mpgs, top speed and acceleration would be great measurements. I'd recon that the average adv rider probably carries 60 lbs of gear on the bike .
It wasn't worth buying FOR THEM! Not every person wants or needs the same bike. What works for one persons riding style, terrain and ability might not be a good fit for someone else.
No swiss army knife bike out there......I really like a test that says ....for me, or my riding preference, or my riding style....those are the true test because my riding is different than yours. Keep the honest content coming. Garth
Just found your channel.
Keen for more 701 footage.
Recently bought a 23 701 here in New Zealand's South Island
Welcome! Seeing as I can't seem to talk myself into selling mine, there'll undoubtedly be a few more videos here and there!
Husqvarna doesnt mess around all of their bikes going back decades are top of the line as well as KTM which this bike pretty much is.
Yeah, they're definitely much more performance minded than the Japanese bikes!
Really enjoy your honesty and transparency-great reporting….again
Thank you!!!
Ironically on your test route , I think my Versys 650 would have been in its element .
Would have liked to see how this supposed off road weapon handled serious stuff.😊
On this ride? Or my dual sport test circuit? Either way I'd definitely agree, a Versys would definitely have gotten the job done. Here though, I'd take the 701 any day!
ruclips.net/video/PzWAKdNUOwY/видео.html
I always though these 690/701 were unicorns, the perfect do it all bikes, but in a world where you can get a great used 390 adv for 5k or less.....that will tackle highways, offroad, singletrack nicely, fun to ride, lightweight, I cant seem to justify a 13k+ dual sport just because I want "more power". I also have a 2022 Beta 300 2T and a 2023 300 XCw, I guess because I already have great fast enduro bikes, I dont see the need for a crazy dual sport.
Yeah it's definitely sort of an odd duck amongst the other bikes out there. It's really just a faster version of the other two bikes I've got now, the DR and XR which certainly don't make sense for everyone, but do filt the needs of guys like me.
@swanky cat did the handlebar risers add vibration? I've heard that they do.
Possibly, but not enough that it ever crossed my mind.
@@SwankyCatProductions Cool. I'm a big guy, think I might try those risers. Appreciate the reply.
Being an owner of a 23 ES 700, I actually agree with the dork on this one. Don't get me wrong, it's a fun hooligan bike, the motor is awesome. But, for me, the ergos suck. Takes all the fun out of off-road. But that's just my opinion.
Yeah, it's definitely not the most comfy thing on the road. Fun though! Haha.
Hey swanks, i found a 2015 enduro r from a dealer. OTD is around 7k. Is this a find? What should I look for?
I think I paid $6900 or so for mine about a year ago from a private party with 7,000 ish miles. Not sure if the 690 had the clutch slave cylinder issue or not but that's about the only big issue I'm aware of.
You’re speaking hundred percent truth. The so-called other two, are just motorcycle tourist passing through.😎😎
Haha I appreciate that, but I think they're good guys and they know their stuff!
501s vs 701 ?
what is your take on this?
Haven't had a chance to ride one yet, but from what I gather it's an awesome lighter weight version that's more off road capable, but still able to tackle the hwy with relative ease.
@SwankyCatProductions, I’m curious about the maintenance of these bikes.
The salesperson I met last week mentioned that you need to change the oil every ten hours, but when I researched it, I found that this typically refers to racing hours, like in full-throttle competition. However, this was what the salesperson told me, and he recommended the 701 model.
I spoke with someone who rode the 501 and learned that he went 7,000 miles with only 12-15 oil changes instead of the expected 20. How often do you typically change the oil on your bikes, even if you have not ridden this specific model maybe you have had similar bikes to maintain and care for with a lot better knowledge about it than me?
With winter approaching and the chance of snow soon, I'm reconsidering this aspect. What if you're caught in the rain at 37 degrees Fahrenheit and need to change the oil? Is it a significant concern in practical terms when owning a bike like this and want to get out of the country to feel freedom and travel in all sorts of terrains?
I’m just starting to learn about these types of bikes.
Would it be as simple as bringing a couple of liters of oil, finding some shelter like under a tree, and getting it done in 20 min, or are there other maintenance issues I should be aware of with riding bikes like these?
Thanks for your insights!
I've come to the conclusion that we all have different preferences. And also that no matter what bike you buy you will be, in SOME FASHION, left wanting.
100% agree!
A CRF450L? If you think your XR650 has a small tank. Wait till you see how small the tank is on the CRF450L!
It’s not for everyone
You have to be in pretty good shape and experienced enough to enjoy it🍻🍻
Lmao! Just because I choose not to, doesn’t mean I can’t!
Check out my DRZ build. Its about as advernturey as you can get with a DRZ. Im about your build as well but older, more miles in seats. Been riding street since i was 14 years old. Im 54 now. Hard to believ over my lifetime of riding everything from crotch rockets to cruisers....my DRZ400 is my all time fav. Ungodly reliable. Will cruise at 80 mph all day with correct sprockets or do single track with the best of them with correct sprockets. If you want to spend little more, pay for a fishersaddlebags seat. Best seat for dual sports. All custom made up to a foot wide, thick or thin, foam density to match your weight and riding style. I still need one of those seats. But yeah. For some a 700ish cc dual sport is perfect. Some a GS1300 is perfect. So far. 54,000 miles with pretty much zero issues. The DRZ is my perfect bike. There is literally nothing but 2-up, that it cant do. I have ridden it on the freeway homw from Salt Lake City to north of Seattle, WA. 80mph passing semi trucks. All loaded to the gills. Have done WABDR. IDAHO BDR 2 times and about to run it this summer with my DRZ and my buddies new 2023 DRZ400SM. Videos to follow.
NICE! I'll have to get back on a DRZ at some point. I was so new to dirt riding when I got mine back in the day that I feel like I owe it a revisit!
I hesitate to recommend the Crf450rl to anyone. Its expensive new and needs new tires, an ECU, Exhaust system, and evap delete system to make it run good. Ends up being another $2,000 on upgrades to have it “rideable”
And I would know, bought one brand new and had it a year.
Different stroke for different folks, I guess. I've had mine for a year and a half and it's my favorite bike I've ever owned because it's the most versatile. All I've done is get crash protection, tires for the terrain I ride and how I use the bike (what bike comes with universally appropriate tires?), an AIM ECU, Seat Concepts seat, and springs for my weight.
That's funny you say it doesn't have Japanese quality I went from a 701 to a Yamaha tenrey and I thought the same thing But the other way around.
Hardly experts in the field, ride what you want.
I love your bike, i hope to have one by next year...
The dork said more bike than he needed in a dual sport.
Yep, and it certainly is. Still fun though. I was just giving him crap, no hard feelings between us.
The real question here is why give any credence at all to what those guys say? It appears that the value proposition for both channels is ignorance rather than expertise. I've seen both those guys be substantially wrong about bikes with which I have personal experience. There are plenty of RUclips presenters who have real expertise. These two are best ignored.
Agreed!
I mean, I have ridden over a hundred different bikes... I'm not the best, but I know what I like, and I love *MY* 690. Very important detail. I own mine. It's my second one too.
I love my 690 but if I could justify the expense....I'd have a 500exc and an 890r. For those guys that need one bike to do it all......the 690 platform is great.
Yeah definitely! I think most people who dislike these bikes just don't see the value in how versatile they are. Versatility comes with compromise, but there's very little these bikes can't do well. Maybe not the best bike for the job, but the best bike for all the jobs!
Nice thorough review. Keep it up…literally. 👍
Thanks man! Will do!
Keep it man! Of course i'm biased and not a youtuber lol but theres not alot out there on the 690/701/700 bikes, theres some though......dork's just upset honda didn't make that bike 😂
Haha yeah I don't think I'm going to be able to let it go 🤣
How do you afford all of these?
It's not too hard, I just don't spend money on anything else 🤣.
Have a 701 SM that I don't think I will ever sell. There's nothing in it's league besides maybe the new Ducati or a road legal YZ. It's definitely not an Adventure bike. But I am a MORON.
It's not really fair to compare a Husqvarna with 11 more cc's to a KTM 690.
Actually the 690 has a couple more CCs than the 701.
Where in the USA are you ? There’s no one around All those open roads !
I don’t mind my 690
And for me has been that “unicorn”
Nice!