Great comparison! Bought my first set of Knox gear last year and happy to see Knox providing relevant content for customers/fans. I had a 640 LC4 and a 690 Enduro. Both great on road but both heavier offroad than I wanted. I think I'm going 4 stroke 250 next.
the wr is a little cheaper in price, no? i had a ktm lc4640 and it was a great balance between street n trail, so i think i would like the husky for myself personally
Actually, oil changes and valve checks on the Husky 701 / KTM 690 are at 6k mile intervals. Once you know the valves are all safely in spec you can easily stretch that out to 12k miles, but I would not go to 15k miles. Also, the WR250R is a different machine than the WR250F in this video. The “R” is a street legal dual sport and the “F” is an off-road only dirt bike. The Gas Gas 2-stroke is not street legal anywhere, so of these three, only the Husky 701 is a dual sport that is street legal.
Great video! I live in South Africa and now own a late 22model 701 Enduro, its a complete manageable beast! I'd advise anyone up for adventure to go for a Husqvarna 701 Enduro !
Great selection of bikes regardless of brands! I started on a 250 4 stroke, you learn clutch techniques riding slow and technical and as you progress have to ride them high in the rev range to have fun and they are FUN! I could still ride a 250 4 stroke and be more than happy. I do ride the GasGas 300 2 stroke, got mine the first year it was released and revamped. It does require respect, you are spot on there but it's a bike as you also said that you can happily ride low in the rev range and it will even save you due to the power if you are in 3rd gear and should have been in 2nd. The 300 2 stroke is a keeper for me but I am keen to hear what you guys say about the 701 as I have been considering one for long trips as 8hrs on the GasGas gives you serious monkey butt. One note - the GasGas suspension is not too soft, play with the clickers as I ride harder than most with MX experience while standing 181cm and weighing 90kg and still ride it at the MX track hitting doubles after adjusting the clickers. Granted I'm not racing, just playing around but it's a harder hit than vast majority will ever put on that suspension.
Thanks Mike! Yes, think if we were only riding the WR250f and nothing else, you can adapt your riding style to suit. Funny story about the 300 2 stroke, Mossy said he'd set off one time on it and was thinking, "oh its gone a bit sluggish", only to realise he'd set off in 6th gear!! 😂😉😜. Ridiculously flexible motor. Aaron KNOX
Had my 2020 WR250F for a few Months now, was de-restricted on purchase, have put a slow throttle on and a smaller front sprocket which makes the slow knarly stuff a bit better, but go too slow without slipping the clutch and you could still stall, was over Breast High and Longsleddale the other day and stalled a few times on both trails. 👍
It would be interesting in a dual sport shoot out to compare Husqvarna 501, (KTM 500 Exc) , Honda Crf300L with updated suspension, Honda Crf450L vs 701 enduro. Anyone know if the Husqvarna 501 Enduro is meant to be released at the same time as the Norden 501, KTM 490 Enduro / Adventure?
I loved my KDX250 two stroke when I was a kid. That was a long time ago. Been riding street for years. Recently I wanted to pick up a bike that would allow me to get back in the trails but I wanted the ability to ride it there. I chose the KTM 690 Enduro R and couldn’t be happier with it.
Used to ride dirt bikes, some desert pie plate races and such in Southern California, long before their was a KDX. Have been riding cruisers and baggers for decades and want to relive the younger years, a little bit :) Went from thinking the 890 R would be perfect. But now the 690 R is at the top of the list. No need to hurry/race to where the riding is, and want the easiest bike to ride in the dirt. Thoughts?
This was a fantastic video with lots of information and beautiful scenery (and bikes). Being an owner of a new 701 enduro myself I have to say it's the perfect do-it-all bike for my needs. I want the ability to cover a lot of distance on the road to get to places, but I also want a bike that isn't a 200kg ADV bike when things get rough.
The 701 is, in my view, the perfect dual sport. I've ridden the Portuguese TET on it, most of the French, bits of TET Spain and doing TET France and ACT Pyrenees on it in about 6 weeks, and no vans. I can ride roads, ride trails and ride nadgery trails with it. I'm of distinctly average talent, no MX or trials background to fall back on. My 2016 701 did the Nordic TET, largely gravel roads, at pace, managed to carry about 20kg of kit, but on the few technical bits of the Nordic TET, sailed through it. By the way, Knox, your mesh riding jacket is an excellent adventure armour layer. I put a windproof Adv Spec linesman without armour over it or a Klim waterproof. When the weather is warm, just the CE rated mesh armoured shirt with the abrasion resistant fabric.
@@TheIdlesurfer Thanks for sharing Andrew, I’m so happy the 701 continues to serve you well. Personally I guesstimated/knew it would be great for most of the riding that I do. The part that has impressed me the most is how hilariously fun this bike is on twisty backroads. I’m riding to Skog in Sweden in a month, I can get there 8 hours of straight highway or 15 hours of twisty back roads - guess which route I’m taking 😁
@Johannes Motorcycle Adventures we both know we are 701 fanboys, Johannes. This year my plan is Pyrenees, including Andorra and TET France from Spain's South East to Orleans. Next year may well be family in Finland but up the coast of Norway on the Tiger 900. The 701 might be a good all-rounder but Hook of Holland to Gothenberg by 701 is a bit much for the big hearted girl. Nordic TET is good for bigger bikes. Portuguese TET, not so much. 701 was perfect on that.
I’ve had four WR450’s. Still have two. I have a 2022 GASGAS EC300 on order. Can’t wait! The cable clutch on the WR’s is a killer as is the stiff suspension and the weight. I have a Rekluse on one and it’s amazing. Plan on using the WR’s for training and the GASGAS for competition up here in North Eastern Ontario Canada. At 63 years of age I’m looking forward to the new Red Head! Cheers! And thanks for the very interesting comparison.
Why the hell would you train on a wr then ride 300 ec in competition that doesn't make sence to me one bit , doesn't matter what year the wr is there the biggest heap of shit that Yamaha ever brought out and you cut my wisit and i will bleed blue , i remember when Yamaha brought out its first big bore 4 stroke 426 and i brought one and set it up for the bush , it wasnt too bad but I soon sold it because it was the biggest pain in the ass to start when it was hot and following that there were 6 yz450fs with a couple ktms and crfs thrown in amongst them but a yz450f set up properly is a awesome enduro bike , im waiting on the new 23 yz450f to come out mid december here in oz and i can see it being one of the best bush bikes ive ever owned , was going to go the 300ec for something different but a lot of people i spoke to said the 2019 and 2020 ec 300s were better than the new one ... if Yamaha pulled there head in and brought out a yz300x i would have ordered one of those instead
Can you please make a video covering the US/UK names of all the different variants of “dirt bikes” and what the differences are between the “sport” or use case they’re used in “motocross cs enduro vs flat track” etc. and the differences between the bikes used in them and any lessons that potential buyers should take away and consider when buying for mixed road/off use
I have the EX300 which is another 5kgs lighter than the EC300, the EX also has better brakes and suspension. I love the EX and wouldn't change a thing on it, it's perfect right out of the box.
Thinking about getting the EX 250F 4 stroke. Do you think the EX 300 needs wider tires? Looks like I’m video the tires that come stock are to skinny. Also I feel like gas gas doesn’t give enough protection on the exhaust just my opinion?
Fantastic review really well done! I have owned the Wr and the Gas gas 300 both fantastic bikes, however….. you are limited in distance and maintenance is more constant with pistons on the gas gas 80 hours but let’s be realistic 150 hours and the tpi oil pump again 80 but more like 150 if not racing, the big adventure bikes are not for me but this 701 is ideal, I’m 41 and enjoy riding the green lane/byways but I’m limited in distance and comfort, this 701 is can do it all service intervals every 6200 miles, tank distance over 300 miles, practicality as a commuter or a play day bike, this video has convinced me I need a husqvarna 701 in my life!
What a great comparison. Enjoyed every minute of the review and got a lot of positive feedback on what I am actually after at the moment. Last bike was 2010 Z1000 which I loved and modified a lot and after 10 years off motorcycles want to get back on something adventurers…)
A 500EXC is the best of both worlds. Similar power to the 701 (I'd say it's faster since it has a better power-to-weight ratio) and similar weight to the other two.
What a great - and rarely seen comparison - with a very surprising conclusion! Spec sheet warriors would have thought the WR would have been better than the Husky off road given its weight. And yet, that elusive clutch feel and fueling component seemed to make the difference. Really great content as always!!👍
Thanks, really appreciate it! I think everyone would agree, the 701 Enduro is the ultimately the least capable pure off road bike out of the three, but the reality is that its more than enough for our trails and we haven't found much it cant do! Its just a brilliant machine! Thanks, Aaron KNOX
I picked up a '23 EC250, and love the thing. Kept away from the 300 because frankly Im not a pro, but like challenging enduro trails. Thinking I also need an ES700 these days for longer hauls.
Brilliant thanks for the test Moss is a legend from my youth ,, still enjoying the reviews and what great areas you have on the door step ☺️,, great variations of bikes ,,top class stuff☘️☘️☘️☘️☘️👍 from northern Ireland
Great video! As a 690 rider, I'm pretty excited about your conclusions. All my friends have big ADV bikes and 500's. I can only have one bike right now, so I chose the "tweaner". From time to time I wonder if I should just give up on the adv side of things and get a 500. This helps remind me that I'm only giving up a little to get a lot...
Thanks Dave. Yes its a bike that surprises us every time we ride it, and apart from the competition or really hard type work, there is nothing it cant do! Aaron KNOX
Put a Rekluse clutch in the WR. Surely that would help your issues? Also a different exhaust with less back pressure will help with your engine braking issues. Come back with a video after you do that and the effects.
That may be an option, but at the same time, the other bikes run great as stock and the WR should run better without this sort of modification. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
Funny what the guy said on the wr250f that you have to put money on it to have a ready to race bike, what he is not telling is how much cost the bike compare to a gasgas? And how much cost the parts and how reliable is the gas gas? Personnaly i would choose the yamaha just for that. A trail bike has to be reliable.
Note: the Wr250f throttle sensors are why they stall badly. A yamaha dealer can reset them. You cant on the app. The 22/23s had this rectified. Suspension - dial the compression down a few clicks. Also google traction disc. They are a clutch weight. I have one on my 23. Harder to stall and smoother power off the bottom. The WR is a good bike with these changes. Iam coming off a 2 stroke KTM. The rest is the rider and terrain type you ride.
I am 70 years old and 190 cm in height by 73 Kg. As a comfort queen from Europe I am in search for a durable and comfortable bike and I stumbled upon YOGE, but I am not sure since the bike is Chinese made. Yes, my bud needs some comfort to get on streets to places to ride a while on dirt roads. Light is key to pick it up after a crash.For street riding with my partner I still prefer my Yamaha FJR 1300 A . Anyone here with a cool suggestion?
Great video filmed on lanes I ride regularly! Over the last 5 years I've been trail riding ive had a variety of bikes now. WR450F, WR250F and a 300 2t. My current bike is a 2009 570 Husaberg and it's the best trail riding bike I've ever had. Nice smooth engine with loads of torque to lug it up technical bits and is very stall resistant. Plenty of power so it's not stressed on the road too. I'll never sell it!
The WR250 needs to be opened up to run properly and stop stalling. The YZ250FX, which is a race version of the WR, runs great from the factory. I own the 2020 690 and it is a road bike, IMO. It does nothing good offroad except cruising smooth gravel. It is overweight, stiff, a slow-turning. On the road, it's pretty good but still slow to turn. The motor is the reason you want the 690. Wheelies are effortless. The 300 is good for nothing but extreme trail riding. I had the KTM version. Weak power on the bottom compared to a four-stroke and light-switch power delivery mid-to-high.
I have the 701 SM version as I am mostly just a road rider, so the more road bias setup suits me better for my needs. That said I have been known to go off on gravel roads and light trails once every blue moon and even with the smaller 17 inch road tires, it's been fantastic there. Great platform with enough punch to have fun with on the streets and still go off and get dirty if that's your thing also.
The big bore bikes are so awesome until you get into sand and the super technical stuff. Those trails are what we’d call hard pack in Michigan and the EC300 and WR250f would be leagues better than the 701. That’s why you gotta have more than one bike!
it might be worth having a look at gpx they do some great bikes for the price, they do a 250, 300 and 450 4t and a 250 and 300 2t all road legal and around the £5k mark.
2 stroke! They handle hard enduro. They can go on long trips. They are no stranger to sand rips. They’re fast as hell and super playful. Guess it just depends what you need. But my money is for the 2 stroke.
I have a 2020 WR 250F brand new in twenty, twenty uncorked it turned up the idol never have had a stalling problem I was just out for six hours on Good Friday never stalled once.
very good comparison, but not fair. cause there is an reliability issue with 2 stroke engines. As you said yamaha can run 2000 hours without any issues, but gasgas not, you'll need to do an overhaul the engine 20 times more than yamaha. In terms of 701 that I am personaly having, It's capable machine, but a little bit heavy, especially when you beneath it. For 701 you'll need to eat good breakfest, and make more gym, than with other bikes mentioned in the video, in the same situation.
just got back from the hospital.....nursing more broken bones wired up in another op.....riding a 300exc on a motocross track,,,,or rather falling off.......im 51...maybe its time to grow up.......at least a little bit......
Out of the three chosen yeah 701, but given other options KTM 500 exc , soo much lighter will still manage roads fine. Had a 2020 690 ER now use the 500 for everything the 690 did but with a bigger smile, even camping off it while riding trails.
I'm torn between the ec300 and 701 enduro for my next bike. I absolutely like the gas gas, but wonder if the lack of road manners to get to trails, along with the crazy maintenance/ servicing would make it feel like more of a chore compared to the 701. Just wary of losing some of the agility.
Depends on the terrain really tbh. If it is more gnarly, choose a proper enduro bike, theyre lighter and easier to ride there. If you are on trails like the ones in this test, the 701 is awesome and will be better on the road and if you are planning some long distance stuff. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
I have a local MX track and quarry near me which are only about 7 miles road ride away, so would suit the gas gas. However, I would like something I could ride over to Wales and the lakes on, do the trails and come back, which sounds more a 701 lol. Very torn
out of interest how reliable is the husky? I used to work in MX and KTMs would be the only bikes we'd be picking up and pushing back to the paddock. Especially compared to the Japanese bikes! Also what tyre's do you have on the 701. Asking because it fits the bill just worried about reliability issues. Great vid as usual.
Many thanks, actually, its been great... although we had to have the clutch slave cylinder replaced under warranty as is famous with these bikes. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
Thanks James. At the moment there isn't any fuel rich maps that I can find nor on the Yamaha website. Hopefully taking it to a dyno shop to get it done properly and will report back. Thanks Aaron Knox
@@KnoxArmour I had the 2015 wr and used the gytr tuner to manually adjust my map. Isn't that bike Bluetooth now? Use the app to play with the fuelling and ignition. More fuel fattens up the bottom end and retarding then ignition does the same. You can okay about with the tuner app to your hearts content without fear of damaging the bike at all. The bottom end sounds lean, which makes the bike snatchy and liable to stall. The g2 throttle tamer is a new twist grip with a much more sympathetic cam to better open the butterflies from closed. Totally transforms the bike IMHO
Great content guys and riding some of my local lanes. My only question is why are you riding off the legal trail and encouraging others to do the same? I'm a big fan of your videos but this is what will end up getting us all banned from doing what we love! I'm referring to the riding in the quarry area and surrounds on the Old Coach Road near Keswick.
Hi, many thanks. I don't think at any point we encouraged people to ride off legal trails as you have said... In terms of that specific area, we go on a regular basis and its generally used for that sort of riding. There are often groups of trials riders practicing there, it was the training area used by Jonny Walker for many years and its one of those areas that is more open, similar how North Side in Workington has been for many many years. Hope that helps. Aaron KNOX
@@KnoxArmour Hi Aaron, I totally appreciate what you’re saying. I guess I’m looking at it as many of the anti trail riding organisations will, thus showing riding off the legal route is the sort of thing they will jump on! Just saying. Otherwise a good video, thanks.
Check out TRF. They've just launched an interactive map with all of the routes on it. You need to pay to be a member but its worth its weight in gold. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
Good luck. It all depends what you want to do. If you want to ride more long distance on the road, with a bit of lighter trail riding, 890r. If you want to do more rough terrain like in this video, the 701 is better. The 890r would have just about made the terrain we rode in this video, but it would have been a real challenge and much more risky. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
Ha yes! Well its definitely not an official recommendation, so don't take it as such. But Ed at RedTread always has a big fleet of WR250f's, he knows them inside out and rides them for huge mileage every day. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
Good question. We bought the 250 because we wanted a slightly easier to manage enduro bike. The 250 in the 2020+ models is basically the MX bike with some small changes, meaning the power is really strong. The 450 is a fair animal with a lot more torque and power, which suits well for more open trail riding, but harder enduro stuff, it can be a bit too much. Since this video, we have got the 250f dialled in much more and its much better now. Hope that answers, Aaron KNOX
Yes all legal road bikes. WR is uncorked... Its a look at some of the different options that people would consider when looking at a trail bike, nothing more. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
IMO why use a butter knife when you can use a scalpel, that's why I choose the EC300. I have a ES700 and one thing no review tells you is it's seat to bar height is not good for standing. That is unless you are real short. But if you are, you won't be able to touch the ground. I have my bars raised 30mm and it's still about two inches shorter than my 300. It makes it feel funny to ride off road when you have to stand. Also the electronics on this bike are infuriating. If you kill it or get a flame out while riding singletrack resetting the abs, tc is a total pain in the butt. And it resets everything if it dies every time. You literally have to start the bike, put it in gear, move forward, stop, hold the tc button for exactly 5 seconds or so and then it will disable. A stupid feature that will no doubt frustrate the crap out of anyone when they get stuck on a steep uphill. You might think well the tc has to help you climb a hill right. Nope, all it does is cut power when it detects slippage. So while your in the middle of that steep climb on sand or rock get ready to lose so much power your bike basically comes to a stop. Why they don't have toggle switches baffles me. This is supposed to be a high performance machine, not some watered down street bike. This is why I choose the EC300 in this group. Two strokes are simple, easy to work on, and oil changes are a breeze. The wr could be fun but off-road on anything technical it's no match for the two strokes.
I kept looking at the rocks you were riding over. In several spots I noticed what appeared to be foundations of buildings. I also noticed largee chunks of rocks with perfectly flat surfaces…like they were broken up flat slabs. Since I had just watched a video on the Bosnian pyramids it just made me wonder. What is below the ground you were riding on? Will have to do some more investigating. Thanks for the great video!
Good question. Unfortunately, most off road oriented bikes are quite tall, the 701 is the same. Having said that, it just takes getting used to. Mossy is about 5'7" and managed no probs. Hope that helps, Aaron KNOX
So, basically what this review and most all reviews are saying, is that it doesn't matter what you buy. You'll acclimate to it and it will work for your needs. There are an infinite number of comparison videos all over You Tube, and they never just come out and say what they think is best, and these are people who get paid to do this. No knock on them, but if they are professionals who get paid to ride and review equipment and they are unsure about what is best for such a specific task, then what are the mere mortals to think who don't have the opportunity to test every moto that hits the market. The only thing these videos do is make most peoples choice even more difficult because if you were leaning in a certain direction coming into it, this did not clear anything up...
Thanks for the comment. A few things, 2 of them are our own bikes which we personally own ourselves, both of which have good and bad points... I think we did come to a conclusion actually, 701 first, gasgas 2nd, WR250f 3rd. I think we did a good and honest job of covering all aspects of it. Thanks Aaron KNOX
You do know the gasgas is a KTM? As is the 701 basically a 690, entertaining vid and a strange comparison, which probably makes it. As a long time off-road rider I cannot forgive KTM, for the death of husaberg, Husqvarna and now gasgas.
It's a pity that badge engineering has got into motorcycles. Not that the bikes aren't good but the individuality isn't really there and how does it make sense to compete against yourself with so many similar models. Maybe it makes no difference in overall sales....who knows?
It make great business sense, as long as people buy, but I really liked the old brands, even the sometimes crazy ideas that didn't work well, along with some brilliant ones that did. Husqvarna, Husaberg and gasgas rip
Thanks for the excellent video. Would a recluse clutch solve the Yamaha complaints - stalling and engine braking? I have never ridden a bike with one so I really don't know if it is a viable fix.
Yes and everyone could really tell the difference with the EC300, not just its spec sheet weight, but the lack of engine braking and how that played into the lightweight feel. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
Its not biased... and the point of the piece was to test the different options of bikes that people often used when doing trail riding and compare them.. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
Great comparison! Bought my first set of Knox gear last year and happy to see Knox providing relevant content for customers/fans. I had a 640 LC4 and a 690 Enduro. Both great on road but both heavier offroad than I wanted. I think I'm going 4 stroke 250 next.
Many thanks for your support and kind words! Yes, the 250 on the WRf is more than enough for most people, in fact its genuinely fast! Aaron KNOX
the wr is a little cheaper in price, no? i had a ktm lc4640 and it was a great balance between street n trail, so i think i would like the husky for myself personally
Don't forget the service intervals on the enduro bikes vs 10-15k intervals on a 701
Isn't the wr250r 16600 miles?
Exactly. Plus, they don't have a key so poor security.
Actually, oil changes and valve checks on the Husky 701 / KTM 690 are at 6k mile intervals. Once you know the valves are all safely in spec you can easily stretch that out to 12k miles, but I would not go to 15k miles.
Also, the WR250R is a different machine than the WR250F in this video. The “R” is a street legal dual sport and the “F” is an off-road only dirt bike. The Gas Gas 2-stroke is not street legal anywhere, so of these three, only the Husky 701 is a dual sport that is street legal.
@@1wheeldrive751Isn’t WR250F a street legal one and YZ250F is the one that isn’t?
I Love my Honda XR250cc . That is a bulletproof bike it can do whatever you want it to do .
Have a go at tightening the positive tension on the throttle cable. Made massive difference on the wr450 throttle control. Smoothed it out tons.
Great video! I live in South Africa and now own a late 22model 701 Enduro, its a complete manageable beast! I'd advise anyone up for adventure to go for a Husqvarna 701 Enduro !
Great selection of bikes regardless of brands! I started on a 250 4 stroke, you learn clutch techniques riding slow and technical and as you progress have to ride them high in the rev range to have fun and they are FUN! I could still ride a 250 4 stroke and be more than happy. I do ride the GasGas 300 2 stroke, got mine the first year it was released and revamped. It does require respect, you are spot on there but it's a bike as you also said that you can happily ride low in the rev range and it will even save you due to the power if you are in 3rd gear and should have been in 2nd. The 300 2 stroke is a keeper for me but I am keen to hear what you guys say about the 701 as I have been considering one for long trips as 8hrs on the GasGas gives you serious monkey butt. One note - the GasGas suspension is not too soft, play with the clickers as I ride harder than most with MX experience while standing 181cm and weighing 90kg and still ride it at the MX track hitting doubles after adjusting the clickers. Granted I'm not racing, just playing around but it's a harder hit than vast majority will ever put on that suspension.
Thanks Mike! Yes, think if we were only riding the WR250f and nothing else, you can adapt your riding style to suit. Funny story about the 300 2 stroke, Mossy said he'd set off one time on it and was thinking, "oh its gone a bit sluggish", only to realise he'd set off in 6th gear!! 😂😉😜. Ridiculously flexible motor. Aaron KNOX
Had my 2020 WR250F for a few Months now, was de-restricted on purchase, have put a slow throttle on and a smaller front sprocket which makes the slow knarly stuff a bit better, but go too slow without slipping the clutch and you could still stall, was over Breast High and Longsleddale the other day and stalled a few times on both trails. 👍
It would be interesting in a dual sport shoot out to compare Husqvarna 501, (KTM 500 Exc) , Honda Crf300L with updated suspension, Honda Crf450L vs 701 enduro. Anyone know if the Husqvarna 501 Enduro is meant to be released at the same time as the Norden 501, KTM 490 Enduro / Adventure?
I have the 701 and a beta 300 2stroke....it s all true what you said, especially about the 701...fantastic all around Bike.
Thanks so glad you agree! Aaron KNOX
I loved my KDX250 two stroke when I was a kid. That was a long time ago. Been riding street for years. Recently I wanted to pick up a bike that would allow me to get back in the trails but I wanted the ability to ride it there. I chose the KTM 690 Enduro R and couldn’t be happier with it.
I loved my KDX as well.
Used to ride dirt bikes, some desert pie plate races and such in Southern California, long before their was a KDX. Have been riding cruisers and baggers for decades and want to relive the younger years, a little bit :) Went from thinking the 890 R would be perfect. But now the 690 R is at the top of the list. No need to hurry/race to where the riding is, and want the easiest bike to ride in the dirt. Thoughts?
This was a fantastic video with lots of information and beautiful scenery (and bikes). Being an owner of a new 701 enduro myself I have to say it's the perfect do-it-all bike for my needs. I want the ability to cover a lot of distance on the road to get to places, but I also want a bike that isn't a 200kg ADV bike when things get rough.
So glad you think so! Thats cool, enjoy your 701 Enduro! Aaron KNOX
The 701 is, in my view, the perfect dual sport. I've ridden the Portuguese TET on it, most of the French, bits of TET Spain and doing TET France and ACT Pyrenees on it in about 6 weeks, and no vans. I can ride roads, ride trails and ride nadgery trails with it. I'm of distinctly average talent, no MX or trials background to fall back on. My 2016 701 did the Nordic TET, largely gravel roads, at pace, managed to carry about 20kg of kit, but on the few technical bits of the Nordic TET, sailed through it. By the way, Knox, your mesh riding jacket is an excellent adventure armour layer. I put a windproof Adv Spec linesman without armour over it or a Klim waterproof. When the weather is warm, just the CE rated mesh armoured shirt with the abrasion resistant fabric.
@@TheIdlesurfer Thanks for sharing Andrew, I’m so happy the 701 continues to serve you well.
Personally I guesstimated/knew it would be great for most of the riding that I do. The part that has impressed me the most is how hilariously fun this bike is on twisty backroads. I’m riding to Skog in Sweden in a month, I can get there 8 hours of straight highway or 15 hours of twisty back roads - guess which route I’m taking 😁
@Johannes Motorcycle Adventures we both know we are 701 fanboys, Johannes. This year my plan is Pyrenees, including Andorra and TET France from Spain's South East to Orleans. Next year may well be family in Finland but up the coast of Norway on the Tiger 900. The 701 might be a good all-rounder but Hook of Holland to Gothenberg by 701 is a bit much for the big hearted girl. Nordic TET is good for bigger bikes. Portuguese TET, not so much. 701 was perfect on that.
Do you k do what they meant at 17:09 when they said the “extra ballast” makes it more comfortable? What’s an extra ballast?
I’ve had four WR450’s. Still have two. I have a 2022 GASGAS EC300 on order. Can’t wait! The cable clutch on the WR’s is a killer as is the stiff suspension and the weight. I have a Rekluse on one and it’s amazing. Plan on using the WR’s for training and the GASGAS for competition up here in North Eastern Ontario Canada. At 63 years of age I’m looking forward to the new Red Head! Cheers! And thanks for the very interesting comparison.
Many thanks, glad you enjoyed it! Best of luck on your EC300! Aaron KNOX
Why the hell would you train on a wr then ride 300 ec in competition that doesn't make sence to me one bit , doesn't matter what year the wr is there the biggest heap of shit that Yamaha ever brought out and you cut my wisit and i will bleed blue , i remember when Yamaha brought out its first big bore 4 stroke 426 and i brought one and set it up for the bush , it wasnt too bad but I soon sold it because it was the biggest pain in the ass to start when it was hot and following that there were 6 yz450fs with a couple ktms and crfs thrown in amongst them but a yz450f set up properly is a awesome enduro bike , im waiting on the new 23 yz450f to come out mid december here in oz and i can see it being one of the best bush bikes ive ever owned , was going to go the 300ec for something different but a lot of people i spoke to said the 2019 and 2020 ec 300s were better than the new one ... if Yamaha pulled there head in and brought out a yz300x i would have ordered one of those instead
63! Awesome. I’m 49 with a 5 year old son; I have a lot of riding ahead of me.
Can you please make a video covering the US/UK names of all the different variants of “dirt bikes” and what the differences are between the “sport” or use case they’re used in “motocross cs enduro vs flat track” etc. and the differences between the bikes used in them and any lessons that potential buyers should take away and consider when buying for mixed road/off use
I have the EX300 which is another 5kgs lighter than the EC300, the EX also has better brakes and suspension. I love the EX and wouldn't change a thing on it, it's perfect right out of the box.
Thinking about getting the EX 250F 4 stroke. Do you think the EX 300 needs wider tires? Looks like I’m video the tires that come stock are to skinny. Also I feel like gas gas doesn’t give enough protection on the exhaust just my opinion?
I ride an XC300 and wish this video had a 500 4T. I don't think I could ever go to a heavy 701 but the 500s interest me. Good video though!
Fantastic review really well done! I have owned the Wr and the Gas gas 300 both fantastic bikes, however….. you are limited in distance and maintenance is more constant with pistons on the gas gas 80 hours but let’s be realistic 150 hours and the tpi oil pump again 80 but more like 150 if not racing, the big adventure bikes are not for me but this 701 is ideal, I’m 41 and enjoy riding the green lane/byways but I’m limited in distance and comfort, this 701 is can do it all service intervals every 6200 miles, tank distance over 300 miles, practicality as a commuter or a play day bike, this video has convinced me I need a husqvarna 701 in my life!
I think you’ve just helped me decide between and enduro bike and 701
What a great comparison. Enjoyed every minute of the review and got a lot of positive feedback on what I am actually after at the moment.
Last bike was 2010 Z1000 which I loved and modified a lot and after 10 years off motorcycles want to get back on something adventurers…)
Thanks, glad you think so! Aaron KNOX
Very enlightening comparison between the capabilities and designs of the 3 bikes. Thank you.
A 500EXC is the best of both worlds. Similar power to the 701 (I'd say it's faster since it has a better power-to-weight ratio) and similar weight to the other two.
What a great - and rarely seen comparison - with a very surprising conclusion! Spec sheet warriors would have thought the WR would have been better than the Husky off road given its weight. And yet, that elusive clutch feel and fueling component seemed to make the difference. Really great content as always!!👍
Thanks, really appreciate it! I think everyone would agree, the 701 Enduro is the ultimately the least capable pure off road bike out of the three, but the reality is that its more than enough for our trails and we haven't found much it cant do! Its just a brilliant machine! Thanks, Aaron KNOX
The WR is a beginner bike
I picked up a '23 EC250, and love the thing. Kept away from the 300 because frankly Im not a pro, but like challenging enduro trails. Thinking I also need an ES700 these days for longer hauls.
Brilliant thanks for the test Moss is a legend from my youth ,, still enjoying the reviews and what great areas you have on the door step ☺️,, great variations of bikes ,,top class stuff☘️☘️☘️☘️☘️👍 from northern Ireland
Great video! As a 690 rider, I'm pretty excited about your conclusions. All my friends have big ADV bikes and 500's. I can only have one bike right now, so I chose the "tweaner". From time to time I wonder if I should just give up on the adv side of things and get a 500. This helps remind me that I'm only giving up a little to get a lot...
Thanks Dave. Yes its a bike that surprises us every time we ride it, and apart from the competition or really hard type work, there is nothing it cant do! Aaron KNOX
Put a Rekluse clutch in the WR. Surely that would help your issues? Also a different exhaust with less back pressure will help with your engine braking issues. Come back with a video after you do that and the effects.
That may be an option, but at the same time, the other bikes run great as stock and the WR should run better without this sort of modification. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
Weird, my 2021 wr is very stall resistant. I think I’ve only stalled it twice in the year I’ve owned it.
Funny what the guy said on the wr250f that you have to put money on it to have a ready to race bike, what he is not telling is how much cost the bike compare to a gasgas? And how much cost the parts and how reliable is the gas gas?
Personnaly i would choose the yamaha just for that. A trail bike has to be reliable.
Note: the Wr250f throttle sensors are why they stall badly. A yamaha dealer can reset them. You cant on the app. The 22/23s had this rectified. Suspension - dial the compression down a few clicks. Also google traction disc. They are a clutch weight. I have one on my 23. Harder to stall and smoother power off the bottom. The WR is a good bike with these changes. Iam coming off a 2 stroke KTM. The rest is the rider and terrain type you ride.
Do remember the 2022 is a new WR250f, and probably should have been the bike you rode to compare these.
5:37 I didn't recognize him with the hat on but I instantly recognized that voice from 44Teeth.
I am 70 years old and 190 cm in height by 73 Kg. As a comfort queen from Europe I am in search for a durable and comfortable bike and I stumbled upon YOGE, but I am not sure since the bike is Chinese made. Yes, my bud needs some comfort to get on streets to places to ride a while on dirt roads. Light is key to pick it up after a crash.For street riding with my partner I still prefer my Yamaha FJR 1300 A . Anyone here with a cool suggestion?
Great video filmed on lanes I ride regularly!
Over the last 5 years I've been trail riding ive had a variety of bikes now. WR450F, WR250F and a 300 2t.
My current bike is a 2009 570 Husaberg and it's the best trail riding bike I've ever had. Nice smooth engine with loads of torque to lug it up technical bits and is very stall resistant. Plenty of power so it's not stressed on the road too. I'll never sell it!
The WR250 needs to be opened up to run properly and stop stalling. The YZ250FX, which is a race version of the WR, runs great from the factory. I own the 2020 690 and it is a road bike, IMO. It does nothing good offroad except cruising smooth gravel. It is overweight, stiff, a slow-turning. On the road, it's pretty good but still slow to turn. The motor is the reason you want the 690. Wheelies are effortless.
The 300 is good for nothing but extreme trail riding. I had the KTM version. Weak power on the bottom compared to a four-stroke and light-switch power delivery mid-to-high.
Excellent, thanks. I’ll ha e to check out those trails myself….
Thanks, yes all the trails we used are available on Cumbria County Council website. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
Nice one! I had to get a 2T Husky te300i after trying to use crf450 in tight woods.
KTM890R for it all that you have shown. Serious bit of kit, off road too.
Great video. I love the 690 ER/701. Great bikes for the riding you described and for BDRs in the U.S.
Thanks Richard, glad you think so! Aaron KNOX
Absolutely brilliant, thanks gents
I have the 701 SM version as I am mostly just a road rider, so the more road bias setup suits me better for my needs. That said I have been known to go off on gravel roads and light trails once every blue moon and even with the smaller 17 inch road tires, it's been fantastic there. Great platform with enough punch to have fun with on the streets and still go off and get dirty if that's your thing also.
Same also good for track days it's a do it all bike 👍
I have the Husqvarna 501. It has the advantages from the 701 (but on the road) and the weight of the WRF250.
Sure 501 is a great bike! Aaron KNOX
Loved my 701e, but not sure I’m parting with my TX300i for another one. Those 300s are freakishly easy to manage given what they can do.
Totally agree!
Love this channel !
The big bore bikes are so awesome until you get into sand and the super technical stuff. Those trails are what we’d call hard pack in Michigan and the EC300 and WR250f would be leagues better than the 701. That’s why you gotta have more than one bike!
Agree, the 701 hits its limits on more enduro type terrain. Hence why, in the end, we sold it and bought the FE350. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
try out the ktm 500 exc-f six days 23... absolute weapon. great vid 👍
it might be worth having a look at gpx they do some great bikes for the price, they do a 250, 300 and 450 4t and a 250 and 300 2t all road legal and around the £5k mark.
30 seconds in an can't wait love the lineup of bikes all 3 slightly different enduro the full on 300 the big 701 an then the little 250 great idea
Thanks glad you think so! Aaron KNOX
I live in Maine in the United States, is a WR 250 F street legal
Did you guys consider change gears? 14 teeth front Sprocket ??
2 stroke! They handle hard enduro. They can go on long trips. They are no stranger to sand rips. They’re fast as hell and super playful.
Guess it just depends what you need. But my money is for the 2 stroke.
I have a 2020 WR 250F brand new in twenty, twenty uncorked it turned up the idol never have had a stalling problem I was just out for six hours on Good Friday never stalled once.
Beta 399rr enduro is the perfect bike for that riding.
Essentially the same bore a nd strike as Drz400 with good suspension.
Just bought a husky fe 350, that would have been awesome too 😀 Aaron Knox
Not one word about the electronic modes on the 701, or doesn't the UK version have this?🕊
very good comparison, but not fair. cause there is an reliability issue with 2 stroke engines. As you said yamaha can run 2000 hours without any issues, but gasgas not, you'll need to do an overhaul the engine 20 times more than yamaha. In terms of 701 that I am personaly having, It's capable machine, but a little bit heavy, especially when you beneath it. For 701 you'll need to eat good breakfest, and make more gym, than with other bikes mentioned in the video, in the same situation.
Ive got a 21 ec300 and I'm badly wamtingba 701/690 to brother it
just got back from the hospital.....nursing more broken bones wired up in another op.....riding a 300exc on a motocross track,,,,or rather falling off.......im 51...maybe its time to grow up.......at least a little bit......
Out of the three chosen yeah 701, but given other options KTM 500 exc , soo much lighter will still manage roads fine. Had a 2020 690 ER now use the 500 for everything the 690 did but with a bigger smile, even camping off it while riding trails.
Great watch as per usual!! Where are these trails?
Many thanks! These are all legal trails in the Lake District, Cumbria. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
Great video aaron! Im looking for a new set of handroid mk4s in white and red xl. Is there any special deals available just now? Cheers
Thanks Andy! Not at the moment, but feel free to get in touch with the sales team. Thanks!
Have you still got the 701 and is it for sale? Cheers
I'm torn between the ec300 and 701 enduro for my next bike. I absolutely like the gas gas, but wonder if the lack of road manners to get to trails, along with the crazy maintenance/ servicing would make it feel like more of a chore compared to the 701. Just wary of losing some of the agility.
Depends on the terrain really tbh. If it is more gnarly, choose a proper enduro bike, theyre lighter and easier to ride there. If you are on trails like the ones in this test, the 701 is awesome and will be better on the road and if you are planning some long distance stuff. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
I have a local MX track and quarry near me which are only about 7 miles road ride away, so would suit the gas gas. However, I would like something I could ride over to Wales and the lakes on, do the trails and come back, which sounds more a 701 lol. Very torn
@@RiggerbeeOffRoad haha, like all riders, we need 10 different bikes basically! :)
I wish you had the 450L in the mix there. Be curious how you found that
Sure it would have been great tbf. 👍 however the 701 is hard to beat for trail riding and for lots of fun. Aaron Knox
Lucky enough to have both a 300 XC and a 701. That pretty much covers it!
Yes that'll do!
out of interest how reliable is the husky? I used to work in MX and KTMs would be the only bikes we'd be picking up and pushing back to the paddock. Especially compared to the Japanese bikes! Also what tyre's do you have on the 701. Asking because it fits the bill just worried about reliability issues. Great vid as usual.
Many thanks, actually, its been great... although we had to have the clutch slave cylinder replaced under warranty as is famous with these bikes. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
The gas gas is worth it over the Yamaha just for the fit and finish and the swing arm that’s not a box pipe/angle iron
Husqvarna 🤩
these bikes are cool. The Husqvarna by far is the best
Anyone else noticed they only rode these bikes on the road?
Add a fuel rich map and a g2 throttle tamer and you're golden..
Thanks James. At the moment there isn't any fuel rich maps that I can find nor on the Yamaha website. Hopefully taking it to a dyno shop to get it done properly and will report back. Thanks Aaron Knox
@@KnoxArmour I had the 2015 wr and used the gytr tuner to manually adjust my map.
Isn't that bike Bluetooth now?
Use the app to play with the fuelling and ignition. More fuel fattens up the bottom end and retarding then ignition does the same. You can okay about with the tuner app to your hearts content without fear of damaging the bike at all. The bottom end sounds lean, which makes the bike snatchy and liable to stall.
The g2 throttle tamer is a new twist grip with a much more sympathetic cam to better open the butterflies from closed. Totally transforms the bike IMHO
bought my 3rd 701e today
Great content guys and riding some of my local lanes. My only question is why are you riding off the legal trail and encouraging others to do the same? I'm a big fan of your videos but this is what will end up getting us all banned from doing what we love! I'm referring to the riding in the quarry area and surrounds on the Old Coach Road near Keswick.
Hi, many thanks. I don't think at any point we encouraged people to ride off legal trails as you have said...
In terms of that specific area, we go on a regular basis and its generally used for that sort of riding. There are often groups of trials riders practicing there, it was the training area used by Jonny Walker for many years and its one of those areas that is more open, similar how North Side in Workington has been for many many years. Hope that helps. Aaron KNOX
@@KnoxArmour Hi Aaron, I totally appreciate what you’re saying. I guess I’m looking at it as many of the anti trail riding organisations will, thus showing riding off the legal route is the sort of thing they will jump on! Just saying.
Otherwise a good video, thanks.
@@moto-7 fair point and take on board. Many thanks, hope yo see you on the trails 😀
Does anyone know of a good resource for finding maps of these kind of roads in the UK? i live in the welsh border area, any groups out there? thanks
Check out TRF. They've just launched an interactive map with all of the routes on it. You need to pay to be a member but its worth its weight in gold. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
My issue is, I want to upgrade my bike from crf250 to enduro 701 or 890 adv r. But, still I havent decided yet. I am so confused. 🤦🏻♂️
Good luck. It all depends what you want to do. If you want to ride more long distance on the road, with a bit of lighter trail riding, 890r. If you want to do more rough terrain like in this video, the 701 is better. The 890r would have just about made the terrain we rode in this video, but it would have been a real challenge and much more risky. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
Good video and content , shame you ruined it with music , couldn't hear the bikes at all ! No point doing bike videos if you can't hear them
I think a rekluse clutch would solve most of your issues on the wr250
701 sounds like a very nice compromise.
Re WR 250
2000 hours - that seems a bit Incredible.
At an average of just 10kph, that’s 20’000 ks.
Ha yes! Well its definitely not an official recommendation, so don't take it as such. But Ed at RedTread always has a big fleet of WR250f's, he knows them inside out and rides them for huge mileage every day. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
What about the Honda crf300l or 300l rally
Another great option probably! Aaron KNOX
Why not a WR450F instead of the WR250F?
Good question. We bought the 250 because we wanted a slightly easier to manage enduro bike. The 250 in the 2020+ models is basically the MX bike with some small changes, meaning the power is really strong. The 450 is a fair animal with a lot more torque and power, which suits well for more open trail riding, but harder enduro stuff, it can be a bit too much. Since this video, we have got the 250f dialled in much more and its much better now. Hope that answers, Aaron KNOX
Legal?
2T is legal?
The WR is corked to be Forestry legal.
Uncork it, get back to me.
Is this an apples vs oranges comparo?
I think so.
Yes all legal road bikes. WR is uncorked... Its a look at some of the different options that people would consider when looking at a trail bike, nothing more. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
IMO why use a butter knife when you can use a scalpel, that's why I choose the EC300. I have a ES700 and one thing no review tells you is it's seat to bar height is not good for standing. That is unless you are real short. But if you are, you won't be able to touch the ground. I have my bars raised 30mm and it's still about two inches shorter than my 300. It makes it feel funny to ride off road when you have to stand. Also the electronics on this bike are infuriating. If you kill it or get a flame out while riding singletrack resetting the abs, tc is a total pain in the butt. And it resets everything if it dies every time. You literally have to start the bike, put it in gear, move forward, stop, hold the tc button for exactly 5 seconds or so and then it will disable. A stupid feature that will no doubt frustrate the crap out of anyone when they get stuck on a steep uphill. You might think well the tc has to help you climb a hill right. Nope, all it does is cut power when it detects slippage. So while your in the middle of that steep climb on sand or rock get ready to lose so much power your bike basically comes to a stop. Why they don't have toggle switches baffles me. This is supposed to be a high performance machine, not some watered down street bike. This is why I choose the EC300 in this group. Two strokes are simple, easy to work on, and oil changes are a breeze. The wr could be fun but off-road on anything technical it's no match for the two strokes.
I kept looking at the rocks you were riding over. In several spots I noticed what appeared to be foundations of buildings. I also noticed largee chunks of rocks with perfectly flat surfaces…like they were broken up flat slabs. Since I had just watched a video on the Bosnian pyramids it just made me wonder. What is below the ground you were riding on? Will have to do some more investigating. Thanks for the great video!
Thanks Mike. A lot of the trails we have are rock bed like that. Its just part of the mountain structure I think. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
Where would the Honda crf300l fit into this?
Well I think. Probably somewhere between the 701 and the pure enduro models. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
How tall of a rider do you think you need to be for the 701
Good question. Unfortunately, most off road oriented bikes are quite tall, the 701 is the same. Having said that, it just takes getting used to. Mossy is about 5'7" and managed no probs. Hope that helps, Aaron KNOX
So, basically what this review and most all reviews are saying, is that it doesn't matter what you buy. You'll acclimate to it and it will work for your needs. There are an infinite number of comparison videos all over You Tube, and they never just come out and say what they think is best, and these are people who get paid to do this. No knock on them, but if they are professionals who get paid to ride and review equipment and they are unsure about what is best for such a specific task, then what are the mere mortals to think who don't have the opportunity to test every moto that hits the market.
The only thing these videos do is make most peoples choice even more difficult because if you were leaning in a certain direction coming into it, this did not clear anything up...
Thanks for the comment. A few things, 2 of them are our own bikes which we personally own ourselves, both of which have good and bad points... I think we did come to a conclusion actually, 701 first, gasgas 2nd, WR250f 3rd. I think we did a good and honest job of covering all aspects of it. Thanks Aaron KNOX
You do know the gasgas is a KTM? As is the 701 basically a 690, entertaining vid and a strange comparison, which probably makes it. As a long time off-road rider I cannot forgive KTM, for the death of husaberg, Husqvarna and now gasgas.
It's a pity that badge engineering has got into motorcycles. Not that the bikes aren't good but the individuality isn't really there and how does it make sense to compete against yourself with so many similar models. Maybe it makes no difference in overall sales....who knows?
It make great business sense, as long as people buy, but I really liked the old brands, even the sometimes crazy ideas that didn't work well, along with some brilliant ones that did. Husqvarna, Husaberg and gasgas rip
Husky😍😍😍😍
"Trail" seems to mean different things in different countries.
Thanks for the excellent video. Would a recluse clutch solve the Yamaha complaints - stalling and engine braking? I have never ridden a bike with one so I really don't know if it is a viable fix.
Thanks Rich. And yes, great idea, would probably solve the issue. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
Why reupload?
Because we made a mistake on the first one 😉. Aaron KNOX
Lightweight is king.
Yes and everyone could really tell the difference with the EC300, not just its spec sheet weight, but the lack of engine braking and how that played into the lightweight feel. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
This is adorable.
701 wins by far.
Hello exc 500???? The answer to it all!!!!! O
Maybe, but we don't own one of those! Aaron KNOX
A Husqvarna TE-250 or 300 to match the gasgas, or a FE 250 or 350 to match the Yamaha would be a fairer comparison.
We have the bikes we have and own. I think the point was they are all justifiable choices for doing trail riding. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
701 :)
I am old but if I was younger I would disagree on most of this. However since I am not a yank I will go with it lol
why not compare equal machines instead of a biassed review?
Its not biased... and the point of the piece was to test the different options of bikes that people often used when doing trail riding and compare them.. Thanks, Aaron KNOX
drop the music
701 ain't no trail bike. Junior Adventure bike maybe
Guess you've got to ride it to make a judgement... its blown us away everything we've ridden it on challenging terrain. 😀 Aaron Knox
I ride mine in single track all the time. They are surprisingly capable even in technical terrain.