Husqvarna's Vitpilen 701 and Svartpilen 701 share quite a few similarities, and since coming to market in 2018 and 2019, respectively, have lived up to the hype generated by their unique looks. Since both are still relatively new to the market, it comes as no surprise that both get minor updates for the 2020 model year.
The Vitpilen 701 gets a set of CNC-machined footrests along with a new blue and white color scheme. There’s also a pair of sharp-looking 17-inch spoked wheels on the new edition and a new pillion seat cover.
The 692cc single has proven to be a lot of fun in the saddle, with instant acceleration that pulls all the way to redline. The chromoly steel trellis frame and WP suspension work together in harmony to provide a firm, yet forgiving ride. The fit and finish were a high point during our first encounter with the machine, and the new colorway looks quite striking compared to the previous silver and black.
Similarly, the Svartpilen 701 gets new CNC-machined footrests, a fresh coat of paint, and new 18-inch front and 17-inch rear spoked wheels.
Altered ergos and styling give the Svartpilen 701 its own feel and character, despite sharing much of its internal construction with the Vitpilen 701. Our tester recently described it as making "a strong case as the best single-cylinder streetbike currently in production", so we forgive Husqvarna for leaving well enough alone for the time being. Plus, the bronze and black 2020 colorway is quite fetching.
