2024 KTM 690 Enduro R VS. Husqvarna 701 Enduro: Which Reigns?

The 2024 KTM 690 Enduro R and Husqvarna 701 Enduro are two of the most compelling models in the middleweight dual-sport motorcycle segment. It’s a well-known secret that the two models share a platform and many technical components, but they still have differences in design, ergonomics and tuning to create unique riding experiences. This blog will take you deep into the specifications, performance, comfort and customization potential of these two popular models to provide you with a comprehensive purchase guide.

1. Price

Both motorcycles are similarly priced, reflecting their shared engineering heritage and premium components.

2024 KTM 690 Enduro R:

Around $11,999 MSRP.

2024 Husqvarna 701 Enduro: 

Typically priced between $11,999 and $12,999, depending on dealer and region.
Price differences are minimal, so your choice should focus more on features and riding preferences rather than cost alone.

2. Appearance Style & Color Scheme

KTM 690 Enduro R: 

Exhibits KTM’s signature bold and aggressive styling with sharp, angular bodywork and the iconic bright orange color scheme. Its rugged design emphasizes durability and off-road readiness, with aggressive graphics that highlight its adventurous spirit.

Husqvarna 701 Enduro:  

Features a cleaner, more refined aesthetic with a white, blue, and yellow color palette. The design is sleek and modern, with smoother lines and a longer seat that extends forward, blending form with function for improved rider grip and comfort.

3. Key Performance Parameters

4. Ergonomic Design & Seat Comfort

Ergonomics play a crucial role in rider comfort and control, especially for dual-sport motorcycles designed for both on- and off-road use.

Husqvarna 701 Enduro:

The seat is slightly longer and extends further forward, enabling riders to grip the bike better with their knees. This design helps prevent sliding over slippery plastics, especially during aggressive riding or long-distance travel. With CNC-machined triple clamps reducing flex and improving handling stability. The 701’s handlebars and controls are designed for a relaxed but confident riding posture, making it well-suited for extended rides on pavement and dirt alike.

KTM 690 Enduro R:

The seat is a bit shorter and more dirt-oriented, optimized for agile off-road maneuvering. The bike’s plastics are shaped for durability and aggressive riding but can feel a bit slippery under the knees compared to the Husqvarna. The KTM’s handlebars are vibration-damped, and the footpegs are designed to stay free of mud and debris, enhancing control in rough terrain. Riders often find the 690 more nimble in technical off-road conditions, though it may be less plush on long highway stretches.

5. Riding Style 

Both bikes are designed as versatile dual-sport motorcycles, but their tuning and ergonomics subtly shift their ideal use cases:

KTM 690 Enduro R:

★ Off-Road Focus: The KTM’s sharper throttle response, lighter frame tweaks, and aggressive ergonomics make it feel more at home on dirt trails and technical terrain. Its suspension is tuned for absorbing rough impacts and providing feedback for precise control. The 690’s slightly larger fuel tank extends range, which is beneficial for remote trail riding.

★ Trail Riding and Adventure: It excels in environments where nimbleness and quick handling are paramount, such as narrow trails, rocky paths, and single-track adventures.

★ Street Use: While capable on pavement, the KTM’s raw engine character and stiffer suspension can feel less comfortable during long highway rides or urban commuting.

Husqvarna 701 Enduro:

★ Balanced Dual-Sport: The 701’s smoother engine delivery, plush suspension, and ergonomic seat design make it a better choice for riders who split their time between dirt and road.

★ Long-Distance Touring: Its comfort-oriented setup and slightly longer seat make it more suitable for extended rides, including weekend tours and mixed-terrain journeys.
Commuting and Urban Riding: The bike’s refined electronics, including cornering ABS and traction control, improve safety and confidence in city traffic and twisty pavement roads.

★ Off-Road Capability: Though slightly heavier feeling and with a taller seat height, the 701 remains an excellent off-road machine, capable of handling challenging terrain with ease.

6. Most Common Modification & Suggestions 

Both motorcycles serve as excellent platforms for customization, allowing riders to tailor their bikes to specific needs and preferences.

KTM 690 Enduro R Modifications

★ Suspension Upgrades: Many riders upgrade to aftermarket suspension components or have their WP XPLOR forks and shocks revalved and resprung to better match their weight and riding style. This improves comfort and control on rough terrain.

★ Protection Gear: Adding sump guards, handguards, radiator guards, and reinforced brake levers protects the bike during aggressive off-road riding.

★ Foot Pegs: Wider, more aggressive foot pegs improve rider stability and comfort on technical trails.

★ Rally Fairings and Navigation Towers: For adventure riders, rally-style fairings and GPS mounts improve wind protection and navigation capabilities.

Husqvarna 701 Enduro Modifications

★ High-Performance Exhausts: Brands like Arrow, Akrapovic, and Wings offer slip-on and full exhaust systems that reduce heat output and improve power, addressing the OEM exhaust’s tendency to run hot.

★ Fuel Range Extensions: Auxiliary fuel tanks or larger aftermarket tanks (e.g., Carbon Fox side tanks or under-seat auxiliary tanks replacing the airbox) extend range for rally or adventure riding.

★ Air Filter Upgrades: High-flow air filters improve engine breathing and performance.

★ USB Power Ports: While the 701 comes standard with a USB port, some riders add additional power outlets for charging devices.

7. Practical Tips Before Your Test Ride

★ Test Both Bikes in Their Intended Riding Positions
Both bikes are designed primarily as off-road and dual-sport machines, but their riding postures differ subtly. The KTM 690 Enduro R is best experienced standing up on the pegs, as it has a narrow seat and aggressive ergonomics meant for active off-road riding8. Try standing as well as sitting during your test ride to feel how the bike handles weight shifts and terrain changes. The Husqvarna 701 Enduro, with its longer seat and more plush ergonomics, offers a bit more comfort for sitting, especially on longer rides, so test both sitting and standing to see which suits your style better.

★ Pay Attention to Suspension Behavior at Different Speeds
The KTM 690 Enduro R’s suspension is tuned more aggressively for off-road performance, which can feel stiff or harsh at slow speeds or on smooth pavement6. During your test, ride both slow technical sections and faster stretches to assess how comfortable and controlled the suspension feels. The Husqvarna 701 Enduro tends to have a slightly more plush suspension setup, making it more comfortable on long road rides and rougher surfaces. Testing both bikes under varied conditions will reveal which suspension better matches your riding style.

★ Consider Weight and Maneuverability in Tight Spaces
Both bikes weigh about 146 kg (dry), but riders often report the KTM feels a bit more nimble and lighter on its feet, especially in tight off-road conditions. When test riding, try slow-speed maneuvers, tight turns, and quick direction changes to see which bike feels easier to handle. This can be a deciding factor if you plan to do a lot of technical trail riding.

★ Inspect and Ask About Maintenance and Known Issues
Before or after your test ride, ask the dealer about common maintenance concerns and any known issues with the models. For example, the KTM 690 Enduro R has some known quirks such as the need for frequent oil changes if ridden hard, and potential clutch lever or valve clearance checks around 8,000 miles. Being aware of these will help you understand the ownership experience and factor that into your decision.

8. FAQ

Q1: What are the key engine differences between the KTM 690 Enduro R and Husqvarna 701 Enduro?

A1: Both motorcycles share the same 692.7 cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke engine producing about 74 hp and 73.5 Nm torque. The Husqvarna’s engine is tuned for a slightly smoother and more refined power delivery, aided by twin spark plugs and advanced electronics. The KTM’s engine feels more aggressive and raw, favoring off-road responsiveness.

Q2: Which bike offers better fuel range?
A2: The KTM 690 Enduro R has a marginally larger fuel tank (13.5 liters vs. 13.0 liters on the Husqvarna), providing a slight edge in range, particularly useful for remote trail riding.

Q3: How do the electronics compare?
A3: Both feature Bosch 9.1 MP ABS with cornering capabilities, traction control, and ride modes for street and off-road. The Husqvarna includes a USB charging port as standard, which the KTM lacks.

Q4: Are there warranty differences?
A4: Warranty terms vary by region and dealer. KTM generally offers long service intervals (up to 10,000 km), which can reduce maintenance frequency and cost.

Conclusion

Choosing between the 2024 KTM 690 Enduro R and Husqvarna 701 Enduro ultimately depends on your riding priorities.

Opt for the KTM 690 Enduro R if you seek a nimble, aggressive dirt bike with iconic styling and a slightly larger fuel tank for extended off-road adventures.

Choose the Husqvarna 701 Enduro if you want a more refined, comfortable dual-sport with smoother power delivery and ergonomic features tailored for longer rides and mixed on/off-road use.

Hope you can find the one you love and enjoy the journey, happy riding!