The Husqvarna Svartpilen 701 is a motorcycle that blends modern design with raw performance. Designed for urban streets but powerful enough for open roads, this bike is a perfect fusion of minimalist styling and high-end engineering. In this full review and guide, we’ll take an in-depth look at everything this motorcycle has to offer — from design and performance to pricing and who it’s best suited for.
Introduction to the Husqvarna Svartpilen 701
The name Svartpilen, meaning “Black Arrow” in Swedish, is a nod to Husqvarna’s Scandinavian heritage. With its sharp lines, upright stance, and futuristic aesthetic, the Husqvarna Svartpilen 701 stands out in the middleweight segment. Built around a single-cylinder engine and trellis frame, it prioritizes agility and style.
This motorcycle caters to riders looking for something different — something that merges scrambler charm with naked bike aggression.
Design & Aesthetics
A Minimalist Urban Machine
The Husqvarna Svartpilen 701 is a design-forward motorcycle. Unlike many street bikes that aim for aggressive bulk, the Svartpilen focuses on clean lines, stripped-back components, and modern industrial styling. It features a dark matte color scheme with bronze accents, a round LED headlight, and a floating tail section.
Its styling is unconventional but sophisticated — a motorcycle that wouldn’t look out of place in a modern art gallery.
Build Quality and Finish
Every part of the Svartpilen feels premium. The aluminum handlebars, steel trellis frame, and finely stitched seat show Husqvarna’s attention to detail. While minimalist in looks, nothing about the build feels cheap or overly simplistic. The overall finish is robust and built to last.
Engine & Performance
Powertrain Overview
At the heart of the Husqvarna Svartpilen 701 is a 692.7cc single-cylinder engine, delivering a hefty 75 horsepower and 72 Nm of torque. It’s the same powerhouse used in the KTM 690 platform — offering refined performance with plenty of mid-range punch.
This engine is known for its responsiveness, torque-heavy character, and surprising smoothness for a big single.
On-Road Performance
When riding through city streets, the Svartpilen 701 feels nimble and light, with sharp throttle response and minimal lag. On open roads, it has enough grunt to cruise comfortably at high speeds, with power delivery that remains linear and predictable.
Cornering is confident thanks to the WP suspension and 17-inch wheels, and the Brembo brakes provide excellent stopping power.
Vibration & Refinement
While some single-cylinder bikes suffer from excessive vibration, the Svartpilen’s counter-balancer system significantly reduces engine buzz. At higher RPMs, vibrations are noticeable but not uncomfortable, making long rides more tolerable than many would expect from a big single.
Suspension, Handling, and Ergonomics
WP Suspension Setup
The bike comes with fully adjustable WP Apex suspension on both front and rear. This setup strikes a balance between everyday comfort and sporty handling. Whether navigating potholes or leaning into corners, the Svartpilen stays composed.
Lightweight Frame and Agile Handling
With a dry weight of just around 160 kg (about 352 lbs), the Husqvarna Svartpilen 701 feels featherlight compared to many middleweights. The trellis frame and centralized mass distribution make the bike agile, which is a big advantage for urban maneuvering.
Riding Position
The upright handlebars and relaxed footpeg position create a riding stance that is both commanding and comfortable. It’s not quite cruiser-relaxed, but it’s definitely more ergonomic than most sport bikes.
Features & Technology
Electronics and Aids
The Husqvarna Svartpilen 701 may have a retro-modern look, but it’s packed with technology. Key features include:
- Ride-by-wire throttle
- Switchable ABS (Bosch 9M+)
- Traction control
- Slipper clutch
- Quickshifter (up and down)
These features enhance the riding experience, especially for those who want sporty performance without sacrificing safety or comfort.
Display & Interface
The digital LCD display is minimal, showing basic info such as speed, gear indicator, fuel level, and trip data. While it lacks a full-color TFT screen or smartphone connectivity, it fits well with the bike’s minimalist theme.
Real-World Usability
City Riding
In city environments, the Svartpilen excels. Its light weight and upright riding position make lane-splitting and tight maneuvers a breeze. It also has plenty of power to handle highway merges and overtakes.
Weekend Rides
For longer weekend rides, the Husqvarna Svartpilen 701 is capable and fun. However, the minimalist seat and lack of wind protection may become a drawback during extended high-speed riding.
Fuel Economy
The bike averages around 55-60 mpg (approximately 4.3L/100km), which is respectable given the power output. The 12-liter (3.2-gallon) tank gives you a range of about 160-180 miles under normal riding conditions.
Pricing & Competition
Price Point
The Husqvarna Svartpilen 701 typically retails between $11,000 and $12,000 depending on location and dealership fees. While this places it at the premium end of the middleweight category, you’re paying for quality materials, standout design, and a unique riding experience.
Competitors
Competitors include:
- KTM 690 Duke
- Yamaha MT-07
- Ducati Scrambler Full Throttle
- Triumph Street Twin
What sets the Svartpilen apart is its styling and focus. It’s not trying to compete on raw specs alone, but rather on the full sensory experience of riding.
Who Should Buy the Husqvarna Svartpilen 701?
The Husqvarna Svartpilen 701 is perfect for:
- Riders who want a unique-looking, high-performance motorcycle
- Urban commuters who value style and agility
- Intermediate to advanced riders looking for a minimalist yet high-tech street bike
- People who want a premium machine without going into full liter-bike territory
It may not be ideal for absolute beginners due to its power and price, and long-distance touring riders may miss comfort features like a windshield or cushioned seat.
Conclusion
The Husqvarna Svartpilen 701 is a striking blend of form and function. It’s not just a motorcycle; it’s a statement. From its bold design and strong performance to its agile handling and thoughtful tech, it stands out in a sea of sameness.
For riders who want something different — a blend of scrambler charm, urban agility, and premium build — the Husqvarna Svartpilen 701 is hard to beat. While it may not suit every rider or every use case, those who “get it” will find a bike that’s endlessly rewarding, both in the garage and on the road.
