Swedish motorcycle manufacturer Husqvarna launched its 701 Enduro and Supermoto models at wholesaler Puzey’s Biker’s Warehouse, in Gauteng, last month. The range will spearhead the new range of Husqvarna road motorcycles.

The company, which was acquired by Austrian motorcycle company KTM from rival BMW in 2013, added the 701 Enduro and Supermoto as its flagship bikes in the new international range for 2016. The 701 range will be the first roadworthy offering from the Husqvarna range and boasts the ability to face different types of terrain.

“Husqvarna exceeded sales targets in 2015 and, we believe, especially since we have a range of new models coming out in the next few years, that we will continue to surpass our sales targets,” said Husqvarna South Africa brand manager Fred Fesham during the launch.

He pointed out that the 701 Enduro would appeal to riders who preferred adventure and rally biking in offroad conditions, while the Supermoto would appeal to riders who wanted to take the motorcycles out on the track.
Both models use a chain-driven 690 cc engine and can provide comfortable commuting abilities through a relaxed riding position and tailored suspension.

The 701 range will be followed by a range of Café racer-styled road motorcycles in early 2017. Husqvarna plans to expand its street model range by adding remakes of the legendary Silverpilen motorcycle.
According to Fesham, the Svart and Witpilen 401 motorcycles would also be available in on- and off-road models, as well as engine sizes ranging from125 cc to 690 cc.

“The 701 range marks a new beginning for Husqvarna and, with the Witpilen (White Arrow) and Svartpilen (Black Arrow) 401 motorcycles on the way, we hope to retain our form in the markets,” he indicated.

Motorsport and Adventure

Husqvarna’s motorsport division delivered sterling results last month, which led to its market success.

“Husqvarna’s 113-year history is entrenched in motorsport success and that ethos was highlighted in our first attempt at the toughest race on earth, the 2016 Dakar Rally. We could not have asked for a better result for Husqvarna factory racer Pablo Quintanilla, who came third overall,” Fesham said.

Further, Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing supercross rider Jason Anderson won the opening race of the AMA supercorss season at Angel Stadium, in Anaheim, California, in the US. Anderson’s victory marked a career first for him and Husqvarna in the 450SX Class.

Husqvarna’s 701 Enduro will also be pushed to the limits in April, when Puzey’s Biker’s Warehouse CEO, Mike Puzey, will attempt to ride cross the width of Africa on one of the motorcycles. Puzey and a concession of riders will start in Mombasa, Kenya, and finish their 3 500 km one-month journey in Kinshasa, in the Democratic Republic of Congo.