[visordown.com] - Husqvarna 701 Concept headed for production

[Ninjette Newsbot]

HUSQVARNA is weeks away from unveiling a new big-capacity single-cylinder street bike, the firm has just said in a press release.

Few clues have been given to exactly what the new model will be, but given the firm last year unveiled this supermoto concept based on KTM's 690 SMC, it seems extremely likely it's going to be a production version of that.

Revealed at last year's Eicma Milan motorcycle show as the '701 Concept', it's powered by KTM's 690cc single but offering a claimed 75hp, nine more than the 690 SMC. It's also got the KTM's steel trellis frame.

It's been given updates including a major restyling though, with the fuel tank moved rearward and the exhaust covered by bodywork. Suspension is from WP.

Swedish marque Husqvarna has been owned by KTM since March 2013.

The new Husqvarna street bike is due to be unveiled at the 2014 Eicma Milan show in November 4.

The firm's release said: 'Husqvarna is pleased to announce the unveiling of three exciting new models at the Italian motorcycle Expo EICMA – models that will give a clear understanding of the future of the brand.

Known today for their off-road models and racing successes, Husqvarna first achieved fame during the early part of the 20th Century thanks to their commitment to street based motorsport. Now, with 111 years of heritage in both street and offroad motorcycling, Husqvarna makes its return to the street segment with a new large displacement, single-cylinder model as well as two fascinating and very modern concept models.

Expanding Husqvarna’s motorcycle offerings, the new large displacement, single-cylinder model street bike will offer premium characteristics while maintaining the Swedish tendency towards functional design. True Husqvarna, and faithful to the brand’s core values, this new model being unveiled at EICMA will show state-of-the-art technology and a rich sense of heritage.

The two exciting concept models will offer a clear glimpse of the future direction of the Husqvarna brand within the street market. The prototypes will showcase lightweight construction and functionality, premium quality hardware and uncompromised design.'

Husqvarna's press release on the 701 Concept last year said: 'The concept bike, which is clearly identifiable as a Husqvarna, showcases innovative ideas and incorporates all the major design features of a premium product. The bike gives a visual indication of the direction of Husqvarna design, the philosophy that future Husqvarna’s will follow, where the surfaces of the bodywork are understated, focusing on simplicity.

Technically, Husqvarna 701 is characterised by a big 690cc single cylinder 4-stroke engine, which produces 75hp and outstanding torque, harnessed within a lightweight Chromoly steel trellis frame and suspended by the latest WP fork and shock technology. The high performance exhaust gives the Husqvarna a soulful voice, while the latest Brembo radial brakes deliver eye-popping stopping power.

Husqvarna’s 701 embraces the 110-year heritage of the Husqvarna brand and projects it towards the future




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