T7 vs 701 (Yamaha Tenere 700 vs Husqvarna 701 Enduro)

[@biscuitsalive]

Couple of amendments / corrections: 1. I spelled dual sport as duel sport. XD sorry! 2. I wrote that the T7 has ADJUSTABLE suspension. It doesn’t. (But it is pretty decent.) 3. In hindsight I would lower the 701 below 450L on the off-road ability scale. (But still above DRZ due to better suspension/ lighter clutch etc.) .... but of course 450l has low speed flame outs and much shorter service intervals... so never a perfect bike is there. :(

[@Gwiedert]

T7 does have adjustable suspension. Rebound and compression in the front. Preload, rebound and compression in the rear.

[@axlsane427]

Simular. Componants

[@Sarj_ent]

Idk why or if the pricing was accurate on the 701 for your area but its 13k here in the states. Just wanted to throw that out there. Great video

[@biscuitsalive]

@@Sarj_ent yep since noticed that. Seems to be bumped up across the pond. Not sure why.

[@diraltmcallister3523]

@@biscuitsalive Import fees. Would honestly love to move across the pond myself and get Husqy bikes cheaper. Love em

[@jameshind6644]

I have owned both and currently have the 701. Your video is spot on and I would agree with your comments. The reason I changed was the weight and top heaviness of the T7 as I ride mostly off road. My first impression of the 701 was what a weapon, that 50kg weight difference really makes a difference.

[@fearlesswhetu4555]

Agree 100%. I’m doing the same. The T7 is just too heavy and too heavy off-road for me.

[@selcukcilek555]

Are bigger aftermarket fuel tanks available for the 701? Thanks.

[@selcukcilek555]

Just read that a LR version is available.

[@jameshind6644]

@@selcukcilek555 Rade garage aux tank 5.9l gives and extra 100km of range and replaces the airbox. Husky long range tanks from the lr model but very expensive or buy a used 701 long range model.

[@selcukcilek555]

@@jameshind6644 Thanks mate. That's exactly the extra tank I need. Much better that the bulky LR tanks. Rade has also a nice fairing kit for the 701. And detailed installing videos here on YT. Great help. Have a safe ride.

[@ianduplessis6457]

This is the best bike on bike comparison I have seen. Especially like the overlay of bike images. Good on ya. I personally am leaning towards the 701. Currently riding the DR650 and R1200GS

[@PeterR0035]

14:20 ❤ I loved your "compare profile proportions"! It's how 1 picture can tell a thousand words 😀 Thanks

[@Adventurist]

Great video. Sold my T7 because in certain situations I was just not able to get this thing up by myself. I'm no athlete by any means but I'm a 27yo dude and if I have trouble picking it up on a good day, I don't want to imagine having to do it in 35°C with luggage on top. 701 or 690 looks like an absolute beast for light weight travel.

[@glossblack1098]

When you stop half way up a steep rocky slope, then the 50 kg weight difference is really noticeable. I’m happy to give up a little road comfort for more capability in the dirt. Totally agree with your sliding scale. Cheers

[@andrewsoldan6050]

just don't stop and you'll be fine ;)

[@mtalbert33]

I love the weight of my 701.

[@neilsloper2791]

Fab comparison, just starting my 701 journey on a used 20k model and I genuinely couldn’t be happier!

[@maxflight777]

Thanks for making that post ! I purchased one today !

[@Duken4evr29]

'23 701 owner here, agree with the placement of the bike your graph. The 701 is great on two lane roads and at 65 MPH and below. The T7 is more of a pig while off road, but it will do it, and a T7 can pound out big miles on the road and at speed, tires of course are the big variable. The T7's are typical Yamaha and known to be some of the most reliable bikes out there. We have a guy in the States, "Long Haul" Paul Pelland, who rides his T7 extensively, last report from him shows his bike having about 135K miles on it, still going strong. The 701/690 are beefy dual sports, which is a cool niche if it works for you. For me it does as I have lots of cool 4x4 routes that can be quite challenging for 4x4s that are fun on my 701. I have no illusions about my 701 being anywhere near as bombproof reliable as a T7 though. The low end issues on the 701 mentioned can be fixed and quite a bit of low end "chugability" can be gained by fixing the fueling via a Wings box or Power Commander combined with an aftermarket can. The stock fueling is crazy lean low RPM and at part throttle all the way to the upper mid RPM.

[@Marlonlabrie]

Both amazing bikes! Great designs, great toys road and off-road! Got a 701 for almost a year and loves every bit of it!

[@ridelifenz]

This is a fantastic comparison video, nice one Mr. biscuit. I currently have the 701 and that weight saving is the win for me. i do wish it sounded like the t7 though..cause that is the sweetest sounding engine for sure. if I change my riding style and go to more easier touring then ill change for a t7. as for now the 701 does the trick and blows me away most days. cheers.

[@michaelhardt9808]

I own both, this is a great comparsion, 10 thumbs up 👍

[@frankyboi45]

This is the best comparison production ive seen... bikes aside, I wish every comparison ive looked for was made like this. Brilliant production!

[@MrHellga]

Very good comparison. Congrats! I owned a 701 and a 690 and loved them both.

[@Kevrek]

Fantastic video, your conclusions match my experience with the T7. One thing we need to give the T7 credit for is that for some of us it was our introduction to off road riding. Then we understood that the weight and top heaviness is a barrier for developing our skills. I recently bought a second hand crf300L, and I think it will help me push my skills a little bit further, without having the fear of heavy weight lifting during my rides.

[@biscuitsalive]

I did exactly the same. Went from T7 to 300L. My off road skills quickly grew. (Not to say I’m an expert now, but much more confident in the tricky stuff.) I’ve ended up on a KTM 350excf currently. Which is basically a 300l with- Less weight, more power, more nimble, and decent suspension…. But it has a painful service schedule. (Oil at 500 miles etc)

[@Kevrek]

@@biscuitsalive I still have the T7. I love that bike but it is so much work when riding it off road. I hope I will upgrade my skills and enjoy more of the T7. Where I live I have to travel at least one hour on highway to get to an off-road track. So the T7 is the way to go for the long term. (The guy I bought the 300L from, also had a T7 before that and he had the exact same story to tell about the weight, the dropping, the lifting etc 😂)

[@biscuitsalive]

@@Kevrek enjoy dude. I did love the T7. But it deff has its sweet spot of types of trails. Fast flowing non technical ones. (Unless you are Pol tarres that is.)

[@jasondunn8894]

Love your presentation style and you have supplied some really simple but important details. I think when considering my next bike it will be between these two👍

[@everydaybiker]

Hi. He has it spot on. If you're deciding between the two, I would say that the 701 is a total do it all. You can even throw super moto wheels on and properly carve corners. The only drawback, where the t7 absolutely smashes the 701, is on the highway miles... believe me, if you ride 500 miles in the 701 on the highway, you will know about it. Good luck.

[@ridelifenz]

Im lovin my 701, the feedback from the chassis is amazing, the power is insane but super smooth at the throttle. Mine can chug along at low revs no problem at all. And with a wings exhaust they have an awesome bark and you lose 3kg in weight! Great bikes. Nice vid. cheers from NZ.

[@VetJeeper]

That was useful to me! Looking between these two bikes right now! Great job!!

[@austinbauman3818]

The T7 was my dream bike for years. LAst year I was in Peru for a few months and rented a Honda XRE300 Rally to go up this steep dirt road that was covered in baseball sized rocks to this amazingly beautiful are (go to Peru if you have the chance, trust me). Totally easy to get up there with the light weight 300 and could get my feet down when my lack of skill reared its head. The next week I rode the T7 up that same hill and had zero confidence with its top heaviness on the steep climb. Ended upi dropping the bike 2 times and dropping the T7 from my dream bike list. Its a beautiful bike and great on the road, but too heavy for me when the going gets rough.

[@khaccanhle1930]

People continually miss the point of adventure bikes. ADV is NOT a dirt bike, it's not made for trails - it's a road bike with SOME ability to deal with unpaved surfaces. If you want to go off road, try a dual sport, or enduro. My friend tried to use his T7 for an entire year as a trail bike, it he could not keep up with the rest of us on our little 250 dirt bikes. Eventually, he got a KTM 350, and just uses the T7 for roads. I think his T7 handles quite well, but it's nothing compare to even a basic dual sport.

[@davidpoffenbarger3686]

Great video, loved your presentation. The overlay of the 701 on the T7 really drives home the differences even more than all the stats. Also the sliding scale at the end is about spot on from my experiences with some of these bikes. Currently I'm splitting time between an Africa Twin and a KTM 500EXC. Both excellent at what they do, but like most, I'm always looking for that unicorn bike. I was pretty keen on swapping my AT for a T7 for a bit, but the T7 has been entirely unavailable in California for long enough that I got over the urge. The T7 doesn't' seem to move the needle enough towards off road nirvana to make the change worthwhile. Well done and thanks!

[@biscuitsalive]

Thanks for your input. Looks like you have a nice combo. AT + EXC. doubt you need much more than that. :)

[@richardsimpson3792]

Nice one!

[@grahamsmith9788]

I reckon that edit must have taken quite a while Blake, very well presented, thanks for taking the time! 👍

[@Aphrotat]

15 minutes into the video. THAT IS CRAZY GOOD!!

[@Goestrip]

Finally someone comparing them ! too often we saw comparisons between the 790/890 and the T7, but your review is totally relevant ! the 701/690 are largely underappreciated unicorns . People underestimate the importance of lightweight. Did I skipped the part when you compare seat comfort? ;) Ride safe

[@biscuitsalive]

I didn’t chat about seats. Should have. Probably similar seat comfort on these. With T7 a bit better in comfort overall. But both could do with more comfy aftermarket seats in my opinion. (For longer trips certainly)

[@thomturner9298]

Thanks good comparison. I appreciate the time that went into this. Quality.

[@maxflight777]

I utterly love my 701. Its way better than I expected !

[@everydaybiker]

Great video, having owned a T7 and currently running a 701, everything you said was spot on...... there is only one thing, when using the 701 for adv travle, the rear filler cap becomes a massive pain if you've not accomodated for it in your packing. Range im getting on tar is about 260km till the empty light unless youre on a fast road 130kmph plus, then it really starts to drink fuel. Trail riding, im getting 170km. Thanks again for the video

[@biscuitsalive]

I’ve heard others say the same thing. (Filler cap position) But it was ok for my saddle bags. And I was never a fan of a big tail bag as it makes swinging leg over tricky.

[@Archyblade]

Hey did you convert your 701 enduro to a super moto? I can see on your profile picture that it has SM tyres. Can you tell me more about the suspension, did you change something brakes. brake rotors, wheel size, sprockets and so on. Thanks!!

[@everydaybiker]

@Archyblade hey. How's it going? Yes, I did/do. Conversion wise. There is very little. On the suspension, I have 85knm spring at the rear, that is just due to my weight and luggage. And then set the suspension to sport settings, you need to dial it after, but the standard sport will get you most of the way there. Sm wheels from a 690sm with Michelin road 6 tyres. Brakes, changed the pads to sintered and got an abs dongle, dot 5.1 fluid. Change the rear sprocket to 48 teeth. That's it. I ride it as an enduro in the summer with a 13/48 and sm in the winter with 15/48. Very easy to do, can definitely recommend it. When i change it, its just wheels, front sprocket, and suspension settings, takes maybe an hour and half. If I can help in any other way. Give me a shout.

[@neptunetriton]

Pretty good summary and exactly why I went with the 701 Long Range over the T7 or 890R when I moved on from my 990. The LR model of the 701 closes the gap even further with extra range and wind protection on the highway due to the large front tank. Makes for a cracking lightweight ADV bike!

[@jonasbaine3538]

LR Hard to find used now

[@arkus9905]

How would you compare the reliability of the 701 compared to the 990? And how many miles have you got? I‘m considering a similar move but not sure if it’s as much of an allrounder as the 990 is for me, as on wet roads my complete back of the jacket and helmet got dirty. Not too good for riding to work.

[@neptunetriton]

@@arkus9905 I put about 68,000 miles on my 990 before I sold it and never had any major problems with it, just little fiddly things that needed to be replaced along the way as they wore out. My 701 LR has about 10,000 miles on it currently and I've had zero problems with it as well. The 990 was a great bike, but not the easiest to work on and I got tired of dealing with the weight off road, especially loaded up with camping gear.

[@larrydykes7643]

Well done comparison/contrast of two very important bikes.

[@ArMy-g5v]

Really liked your comparison of T7 vs 701. Visoulised very smart ..👍👍

[@biscuitsalive]

Apologies for a couple of typos in there. I know it’s “dual sport” not “duel sport”. But I forgot to proof read. :/

[@MichaelShaw206]

Believe the same analysis would apply to the Tuareg 660 and the Honda CRF 450L. I sold the former and bought the latter because the weight difference between the two. My use is best served by the lighter bike although the Tuareg was wonderful when falling over wasn't a problem. I'm hoping the new Kove 450 Rally is decent compromise between the two.

[@biscuitsalive]

Yep I almost bought a 450L. The service intervals on 701 won me over on that decision. And yes Tuareg is pretty comparable to the T7 by most accounts. (Bit lower COG on Tuareg)

[@slasha86]

I rode the T7 for several days and own a 701 Enduro. The T7 is a very well rounded, comfortable bike, which i could ride 8 hours without feeling tired. The 701 on the other hand is much more nimble and agressive, but i would never take her to the autobahn!

[@biscuitsalive]

Have you crashed both? I think that’s when you really sus a bike out, few small tumbles on tricky terrain. Then you soon get your head round what you’ve been sitting on.

[@AwesomePlayers]

Very nicely done video. Really enjoyed it.

[@biscuitsalive]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@jessearias6610]

Great job man. But where would you place the XR-DR-KLR and desert x on your list there. Looking for my first bike here sometime soon. Please and thank you

[@biscuitsalive]

@@jessearias6610 the 650s seem to be solid and reliable by all accounts. No doubt they can go anywhere the 701 can go. But older tech so less power and less refined for fast roads, and bit of a lump to pick up in some situations. But pretty indestructible.

[@biscuitsalive]

@@jessearias6610 desert x looks like a beast. Bit heavier than the T7 isn’t it. So going to be along those lines and further away from the 701. I’ve always had a sweet spot for the desert sled Ducati personally. Almost bought one twice. There is a bunch in that middle Weight ADV bike sector that are worth considering. Norden 890 adv Africa twin Desert x t7 etc. Personally I don’t think I will ever buy another bike heavier than 200kg again. Not for the riding I do. Way too many slippy muddy, steep sections where I ride to deal with a bike that heavy again. Remember it’s not just about picking it up when you crash. It’s also just getting up steep loose hills, the bike has to haul its heavy ass up as well as you. So if you lose momentum, you can end up stuck and not able to get enough traction to get going again. And that’s when the heavy bikes just get me frustrated. If I was a better rider then maybe it wouldn’t be such an issue. But I’m a very average rider so the lighter bikes just means I can make mistakes with less consequences.

[@maxflight777]

Nicely narrated and crafted comparison ✅

[@57lieu]

Glad I stumbled upon your video. Great comparison. Thanks.

[@TheRealGOAT6]

Great vid. I'm currently on a V-Strom 1000, and looking for something more capable offroad. I keep changing my mind on what I think would be best for me, but this week I'm looking at the T7 and 701, so your video was very helpful.

[@biscuitsalive]

Deff try both out before you buy. And if possible, try picking both up. That may be a decider. I’m currently on a older DRZ400E. (Due to needing some spare cash) but I have to say it is great! As long as you don’t need to cruise at 60mph plus for very long. :)

[@ronhamelin]

Also consider the Tenere World Raid. Better on and off road than the t7

[@TheRealGOAT6]

@@ronhamelin unfortunately not available in Canada

[@MrBigPipesYT]

Yeah, it's going to come down to weight for off-road. I prefer more weight on the road to an extent but the Husky probably gains more ground off-road than it loses on-road compared to the T7.

[@paul.vanhout57]

Well done comparison and insights. I have rode a T7 on a 2100 mile Africa trip and own a 2019 690. I can't think of any of your points that I disagree with.

[@Aphrotat]

Really good video, just left a comment hoping the algorithm will hype it to others.

[@701aroundtheworld]

Excellent video. BTW the low rev power delivery can be eliminated by using an Twin foam airfilter (oil). You immediately feel a smoother engine with approx 5% more power or less fuel consumption. The negative is, that the engine is a bit louder. Cheers, Ronald!

[@geoffball9547]

Excellent video with very useful information. On your last graph you located the bikes very well. Another suggestion is to list each bike on a colored horizontal bar scale reflecting the range from street to technical. My guest from your video is the 701 would have the greatest usable range.

[@biscuitsalive]

Good suggestion. Thanks.

[@bobbybecker8834]

Good comparison. I went from a 701 to a T7. Like you mentioned the 701 is still big compared to an enduro bike. The on road comfort is what made me do the switch and the T7 is actually capable of doing the same stuff the 701 can but feels worlds better on road. I wanted to mention that in the states the 701 is 2000 dollars more than the t7

[@biscuitsalive]

Yikes. Didn’t know the 701 was more over there. Thanks for input. Deff T7 is better value then, with that awesome engine etc.

[@armored-clown]

Yeah in my area 701s are $3k more than a T7. Totally not worth getting the 701

[@fluffycat087]

Nope when the going gets tough the T7 is just pure lard. The 701 way more capable off road and can get you there on road. It's chonky compared to my 450 exc for sure but it's more comfortable on the road. Use these bikes Mainland NZ.

[@bobbybecker8834]

@@fluffycat087 on paper, yes. Riding them I couldn't tell much of a difference I actually like the t7 more as long as you keep it upright

[@marcelfacd]

@@bobbybecker8834 With all respect, but then you probably rode them to the supermarket....it;s a huge difference, especially the weight distribution in twistys and the suspension of the T7 sucks as it is.

[@motorbikediaries]

Nice comparison. I’ve a T7 and I put it through a lot and struggle with the weight a lot at times too. Back in December I debated selling the T7 and getting a 701 or upgrading the suspension on the T7. I ended up doing the later, I’ve had a few issues with the suspension since. Think it’s sorted now but still, think I should have gone with the 701 😂. Lots of videos on my own channel if you’re bored. Cheers

[@biscuitsalive]

Nice. I was actually already subscribed to you. :)

[@motorbikediaries]

@@biscuitsalive Ahh nice one man, appreciate that. Keep an eye out, something tells me there will be a new bike before the year is out 😂

[@gufra9835]

I sold my beloved KTM 690 for the T7. Think about this switch so often, in the end, the tarmac portion ist too big on my journeys. But: I changed the whole suspension to Touratech extreme! And I'm so glad about... Cheers from Europe, Guenther

[@fingerscrossed2317]

What is the difference with that 🤔??

[@gufra9835]

@@fingerscrossed2317 Difference between bikes or suspension? Bikes: KTM 690 at least more real offroad oriented, T7, 2 cylinders, more weight, more street (tarmac, gravel) oriented! Suspension: after market, like Touratech always better than origine ones, mpo. Otherwise changing makes no sence...

[@PeterR0035]

Fantastic and great objective video, THANKS! ♥

[@michaelp9759]

Great assessment with the chart, spot on imo

[@maxflight777]

I don't have any snatchiness with the low rev power delivery ! 2023 bike .. runs beautifully.

[@maxflight777]

I swapped the standard exhaust for a Wings. It's a huge mistake, the Wings meant it was too loud for trails, oh and it lost power too! I'm refitting the standard one ( despite its weight and bulk)

[@rememberitsallagame]

Really enjoyed the format, top content 😉

[@seanholland9576]

I’ve got a 701, it is ridden regularly with my mate on a T7, as you say, similar but the weight makes a big difference over a days hard riding. The fuel cap tends to go wrong causing snapped or bent keys. I’ve added extra tank, rally kit and suspension mods. It is very very capable off road, on the road it’s a pretty economical ride. Well worth a try if you’re starting adventure riding from scratch.

[@biscuitsalive]

I’ve heard about the fuel cap thing. Thanks for the other input tho

[@anonymousanonymous8306]

Also fantastic as a motard. Takes me about 45 minutes to swap everything over, have done many track days on it.

[@mikejenson6406]

Great video, many thanks for your hard work. I'm considering a Gas Gas ES 700 which is the sameish as the 701.

[@biscuitsalive]

Yep. Not much in it. My mates got es700. Main diff is looks. And tend to be cheaper than 701

[@matthewmeyers2411]

Great comparison, thanks for your time!

[@chrisvantassel8867]

Add the Rottweiler intake and the Coober piggyback chip on your 701 and it will outperform the T7 in many more places. I converted mine to a rally bike as well so now it has better wind protection and great hwy power now. I have had many many ADV bikes and ditched them all for this setup.

[@maxw576]

Which rally setup/ screen did you use? How is the helmet buffeting? I'm looking for singing that will help with higher speeds. I'm 6' 1" . TIA

[@chrisvantassel8867]

@@maxw576 Rade Garage, protection is pretty good to be honest, the new tower is carbon fiber which is nice

[@codforlife]

Fantastic, no fluff review!

[@shutupandance]

Great comparison, great video

[@mattiasmyrman]

Excellent video, wow!

[@rtacconi]

this is a very good comparative between the two bikes much better than many pro magazines and channels :-) I have a T7 and for gravel and easy offroad is fine but not for real offroad especially when you are alone and you have to pick up the bike. Plus, offroad with a big bike is not fun for me.

[@biscuitsalive]

I agree. Unless you are a extremely gifted rider. All that weight just adds stress off road.

[@maxflight777]

18:42 LOVE your chart here ! best wishes

[@maxflight777]

You really put this well ! thanks for making the video

[@wandersofp]

Pretty accurate. Not sure I would rate the 701 on the same level as a 450L, coming from a 701 owner. I would slot it just below a DRZ in capability off-road- longer wheelbase, heavier, doesn't lug at low rpms as well. The rear gas cap has a tendency to break off keys, I would recommend replacing it. The magic of the 701 is the weight, power and suspension - its quicker than some big adv bikes on pavement and most definitely off pavement as well in the hands of a good rider. Comfort is the big tradeoff.

[@biscuitsalive]

Do you know what. I was thinking the same thing, in hindsight I would put it below the 450. But I would put it above DRZ. Better suspension and lighter clutch etc makes it easier to ride off road than the DRZ. But I agree I should have slot it in a bit below the 450L (Plus weight is about the same as DRZ and probably lower COG too) In my head I was thinking about lots of people that swapped from 450l to 701 because of its easy to stall at low speed etc. where I don’t think the 701 is that easy to stall. So that brings it up a bit for the slow technical stuff.

[@mikeisland7382]

@@biscuitsalive Where the 701 destroys the 450L is in it's ability to carry a occasional passenger. While there isn't much room on the 690/701 there is a factory foot peg option which is very important on a dual sport. The 450L is an amazing bike but there is physically no room for a passenger.

[@biscuitsalive]

@@mikeisland7382 wouldn’t even have occurred to me about a passenger. But certainly that would be a deal breaker for some riders I bet.

[@anonymousanonymous8306]

utter madness, I've owned many drzs,, they are nowhere near as capable offroad as the 701.

[@SB-Kiwi]

Excellent comparison and insight. Thanks 👍🏽

[@TorbjørnHaseth]

Hi , i had a sx 250 and my son a sx 125 , its less than 5 kilo difference , same year same brakes ++++ . the difference in breaking was big , the 125 won by far handling to ... less than 5 kilo difference . So 50 kilo difference is massive , i " never " filled full tank to save weight when i rode , the tank was 7,2 liter . so you really feal weight when riding . Great bikes , just think what kind of riding you will be doing , and what you want from the bike .

[@PowrAl]

Would love to see you get a Kove 450. Looks the dogs bollocks and could be that unicorn we are all looking for.

[@biscuitsalive]

Yep. Looks good. A mates got one on order so keen to try it soon.

[@PowrAl]

@@biscuitsalive Can't wait to watch that vid. So happy you can ride one. Found the US guys are all connected to the importer and may be biased. I now feel a bit conflicted. I do want one from what I've seen and I'm sure you'll make my mind up.

[@Michael_Shay]

Great comparison, it's such a toss up between these two bikes. The sound of the 701/690 just really bothers me. The rational part of my brain acknowledges that it's not a big deal, but at the same time it just makes me feel like something is broken when it's not. Overall, I still think light is right, unless the weight is down low like an 890adv

[@biscuitsalive]

I’ve heard 701s coming past me on the road that sound good. Clearly with some aftermarket exhaust. too loud for my taste (most of them) But no, it’s never going to sound as good as a T7 or twin engine IMO.

[@mrt4755]

thank you everyone comapares the T7 to 890/790 Tuareg 660 transalp ect i dont know why ppl leave the KTM 690 husky 701 and gas gas 700 out of the conversation

[@advinjapan]

Great review, been thinking about the T7 for a while but now you’ve got me on Husky. Btw, soooo much easier to pick up the bike facing away, like you’re doing a hack squat.

[@biscuitsalive]

Depends on the bike. (Facing away) If bike falls very flat. It’s too low to get a grip. You can’t get under it to lift. (Legs bent all the way with bum on floor, so much harder.) For GS type bikes I agree. For T7 I just can’t lift it with back to bike. Tried. I need to face bike and push across. Or use handlebar lift.

[@advinjapan]

@@biscuitsaliveYes, it is situational. But the best way to prevent injury to the back is to lift facing away from the bike when possible. Facing towards the bike makes it hard to keep the back neutral. If you’re finding it hard, working those quads and hams with hack squats and deadlifts at the gym or at home will make it much easier. I’ve lifted way heavier than T7 in the same way and I’m not that big (160). Cheers!

[@IgWannA2]

The main difference between these two bikes is the weight. The 701 is 155kg wet and the T7 is 205kg. That 50kg is a huge difference especially off road. 155kg is still not light for an off-road bike, not compared to 140kg of a CRF300L and certainly not compared to around 110kg (wet) of a competition enduro bike, but there's no way a T7 is as capable as the 701 off road, unless you're Pol Tarres. The 701 does require more frequent valve clearance checks (every 6000 miles) compared to the T7 (25,000 miles).

[@biscuitsalive]

Tell me you didn’t watch the video without telling me you didn’t watch the video XD Didn’t I say all of that in the video? Including statement about pol tarres etc.

[@IgWannA2]

@@biscuitsalive what kind of an arsehole reply is that

[@anonymousanonymous8306]

I just finally checked mine at 15k, they all needed adjustment. I'm pretty sure no 701 ever needed valves adjusted at 6k.

[@vernlochtefeld1626]

Excellent review

[@CykloGamonie]

Great video - thank you for making it. I 100% agree with you. I moved from F850GS, through CRF250Rally now to 701 Enduro and I believe I have finally found my happy place. In regards to the 701 exhaust, you might want to consider Wings - with Silent Kit is as silent as stock, much less hot and it sounds nice. Please drop by my channel - recently I have talked through my 701 mods. Cheers!

[@biscuitsalive]

Thanks, yes everyone has said to get the wings exhaust ... but I also have heard the low rev power was MORE jerky with the wings... and smoother with stock exhaust... :/ which has me still undecided. (I need more research on exhaust I think)

[@CykloGamonie]

@@biscuitsalive so I believe you must have watched the videos by Johannes? :) I have to admit my bike stalled twice already while engine was cold in the morning since I changed the pipe to Wings. But just a tiny bit more throttle solves the problem. I will check that on trails soon too. Cheers.

[@martincooke6230]

@@biscuitsalive Can't tell any difference stock to Wings. I have 02 delete.

[@marcelfacd]

@@CykloGamonie That's weird, I had the stalling problem with stock and it improved a lot since changing to Wings, actually runs a lot smoother! I have a 690 though, the same as a 701 but maybe the ECU programming is a little different between them?

[@maxflight777]

15:41 Ha I own an exciting, 2024 road legal Red MOTO Honda CRF 450RX ! It has 10HP more than a KTM 450EXC, It’s very fast round an actual MX track , my nearest is in Lisbon. the CRF 450RX weighs just 105KG , , but … it’s awful on roads, even for 12 km of tarmac !! (5speed close ratio box 🤦‍♂️)

[@Speedytrip]

I rented a 701 in Colorado and loved it, it was just such a fun bike to ride. Great suspensions, light, nimble, very hooligan bike. I tried the MT-07 and absolutely LOVED the engine, then tried the T7 and somehow it really didn't feel half as hooligan just kind of felt heavier than it should have felt. I currently have a DR650 and love it, but if I could find a used 701 LR, I'd seriously consider it. Is the valve job on the 701 comparable to the DR, or its much more complicated? Thanks!

[@vladimirp.8629]

Good review brother ☝️🤨👍🏻

[@paulcoverdale8312]

Doesn’t the 701 have the KTM engine with cam issues??

[@flyingmaui]

Great comparison!

[@chriscooperCRF300]

So I think you're saying buy a 300L then K tech suspension kit, live with less power because it nice and smooth 😆 I have a T7 and I do love it, but slow technical stuff is terrible, top heavy with a rubbish turning circle (lock to lock) Great video, lots of effort 👍🏼

[@alexmoreno8156]

I currently own a Tuareg 660. But I've realized I want something lighter and more off road capable, while still being able to ride down the highway at 70 mph.

[@Speelbird]

Nice Video! I owned some Africa Twin Adventure Sports before but the Weight was a Mess... Best Regards from a 701 Fanboy :)

[@travelwithevora]

Thank you for that :) These two bikes are on top of my list for my World tour next year.. I'm still unsure and the sound makes it even harder :'D but it was very helpful. Would you trust the 701 on a very long trip?

[@biscuitsalive]

I think so yes. Any bike can have an potential issue. But I would trust the Yamaha engine more than the 701 engine. You could go Honda 450l though, if you wanted more off road capability, as long as you can handle the short service intervals that is. But I bet the Honda is more reliable than the 701 given they are both serviced as the books recommend.

[@Twistsquishbang]

I have sold my 690/701 and gone with the T7 waiting for it to arrive can’t wait!! I did test drive the T7 and it is a different bike altogether, for me I needed a bike to commute on that can easy take a pillion, but can do off road also let’s face it the u.k trials are not that challenging, and despite its weight the T7 comes alive off-road I would say more planted than my 690/701 it’s off-road capability is limited by the rider and sure Pol Tarres has proven time and again what is possible with the T7 also the T7 is stone reliable and will travel the globe and back, I would not attempt this on my 690/701 no way!!! something would break or fall off before even crossing the channel, it’s a very high compression engine working on very high tolerances and the lack of support and sheer arrogance of ktm dealers was the final straw to move away from the Orange brand

[@Jonathan-ez8tq]

You usually get far less discount on a T7 but on the husky you need to add +/- 1000 to make it more « adventure » like so it comes out pretty close

[@Aphrotat]

I am 12minutes in the video. It is phenomenal.

[@titaniumquarrion9838]

I’m amazed the amount of consideration “exhaust note” seems to get in reviews and even buyer consideration these days. I’d never even considered it to be a “thing”. The 701 sounds perfectly fine to me - like the dual sport thumper it is. Then again I can’t ever recall getting on any bike and giving a f#%k what it sounded like unless it was stupidly noisy and would damage hearing. I’d also note the higher 701 exhaust is a benefit for water fording when the T7 is submarining. IMO the 701 has it all over the T7. In fact I’d say it is in facts true unicorn with a windshield and comfy seat fitted. An OEM windscreen is super cheap and very easy to fit for onroad 100-110kph travel though unless regularly doing over 90km for prolonged periods hardly essential.

[@alexshaffer3819]

I was wondering if the T7 has a removable rear sub frame as I think the 701 has. I would think if that's so, then that would be a critical point to mention, being that the T7's muffler hanger is attached directly to the rear frame and is susceptible to damage.

[@biscuitsalive]

@@alexshaffer3819 I don’t think so. But never tried to remove it so not certain. I know one of the issues with the exhaust hanger is that it’s part of the main frame, and not removable. And it’s weak so brakes. So could in theory be a easy way to write bike off. Which is a design flaw for sure.

[@jagoutube]

Great comparison and well thought out/presented! I would be really interested in your thoughts on the Cabellero 500 - why so road orientated on your chart? Have you tried ld the Rally/Explorer edition with better suspension? My hardcore off reader head says 690/701 but my hipster/practical head says Caballero is more style and fun? and capable enough off road? Thanks v much!

[@biscuitsalive]

Hi. I had the Caballero rally. It is fun off road. But it does get overheated in proper off road stuff. Prefers higher speeds to keep it cool. Also the suspension isn’t quite up to the job when it gets more serious terrain. Also also. Not having a 21/18 wheel set up will mean your front wheel will drop down into holes more. And not roll over stuff quite as well as a bigger wheel.

[@Mo0shii]

depends on the ride, abroad tours i would pick the T7.

[@PA-Tammy]

Siting here thinking wow I should dump a bike or 2 and get a 701. But with a XT1200 CRF1000 EXC525 KLX650 WR250F and a PW50 what would I do with the 701 that I can't do now.. Love the vid tho..

[@biscuitsalive]

yep, sounds like you have everything covered. :)

[@Enduro_BALLISTIC]

T7 is more for roads and time to rime off roads (light off roads) you cant hide +50kg, 701 is more for dual sport and like more off road and like shorter on road trips (not long traveling on high way)....all what you need is just decide what you are ride more and have to choose the right one. I prefer 701/690 because ride 70% off road and 30% on roads but 5 times / month ride only roads till 500km and for this I prefer 701/690.

[@nathanboeger978]

Great review! I don't understand why KTM or Husky don't take their 300cc 2 stroke bikes and make a model with a sturdy rear frame. One you can mount serious luggage. I know you can get some aftermarket stuff but they can only hold 7-10 kg. That bike would be ideal. That is the obvious unicorn bike - at least for me.

[@biscuitsalive]

Yep I didn’t touch on subframe did i. Dealbreaker for lots of riders. I do strap saddle bags to most of my bikes but don’t carry that much.

[@matthewallison6823]

yeah if you add a lot of luggage to a 701 you need to support the tail section as the whole back is a plastic fuel tank mounted on bushes.

[@jimtitt3571]

Guess you've never ridden one on the road, they are appalling like all tuned 2 strokes. Steady-speed cruising doesn't exist, it's either a jerky horrible mess or accelerating to warp speed (and imminent destruction). I've both a 200 EXC and a 300EXC and geared up like mad about 50mph is the tolerable limit for short periods. 60hr piston changes as well. And we don't talk about the fuel consumption! The 350EXC or 500EXC are the ones to go for.

[@Gwiedert]

Road comfort is why I choose the T7. Although at this point I would choose the T7 over a 701 because of the reliability.

[@biscuitsalive]

I would agree. Although the 701 has been around much longer than the T7 and very few issues reported on long term reliability. (But yes I have little doubt that Yamaha CP2 engine would out last the big single on the husky)

[@anonymousanonymous8306]

I'm at 16k miles with no problems, use as a real dirt bike, a light tourer, a track spanked motard and a general dual sport in both dirt and motard configuration.

[@crispincurtis8585]

What did you think of the Fantic?, was it a mod'd Yamaha like others I've seen?

[@MJLangdon175]

With bikes like the 450R how many miles would you go without servicing, if you were using it on road with some green lane? The servicing hours are the only thing stopping me getting the bike I really want.

[@michaelmartin5975]

The best comparison is how available is it. I live in central Georgia USA. I never seen a Tenere for sale. 701 is available.

[@biscuitsalive]

It was the other way around when I bought my T7. They don’t deliver many 701s to dealers even now. Partly why second hand ones hold their value so well.

[@selegaso]

Very well done report. Which of the two would you recommend for 20/80 off-road/street use? I only ride alone and no motorways, just a bit of gravel and small back roads. Day trips up to about 300km.

[@biscuitsalive]

Hmmm. Well as you only ride alone and don’t do motorways. I would prob say 701. Unless you are a very big strong guy that is. If you can easily pick up T7 when you are sliding around in mud etc. then that maybe for you. But as you ride alone the 701 may give a bit of peace of mind, as self rescue is much more easy without that extra 50kg or so to pick up.

[@biscuitsalive]

Bare in mind who’s is giving you advice. I’m 5,8” 47 year old of average/small build. I’ve got mates that are over 6foot and stocky and they throw the T7 around like it’s a dirt bike. So your stature and ability will play a big role choosing between these two bikes.

[@selegaso]

@@biscuitsalive Okay, thanks for your advice. I am 6'1", 57 years old and rather slim in build. So I have a lot of respect for bikes like the T7 or the KTM 890 😀

[@andrewsoldan6050]

I would add one negative to 701 - it has road bike frame which is very noticeable while off-road.

[@TheWanderingGeezer]

I went with the T7 for reliability and dealer support.

[@Juuul89]

Great video! Honestly for me it could have been 10 seconds long, the 701 is 50kg lighter, done and done.

[@biscuitsalive]

Yep i agree. But it’s also fun looking at the things in common, and things each bike is good at too.

[@Juuul89]

@@biscuitsalive True, that's why I started with "Great video!" :D because it's a great video. Keep it up

[@IRQ1Conflict]

Another great bike to compare would be the Aprillia Tuareg 660.

[@MrHappy-oq7ot]

You need a two axis graph because for instance the 701 is both better on road and off road from crf300l

[@Leanda-h8s]

Great comparison. I wonder if with 5´8 and, as you say, short legs the 701 ist not too high for you - or did you lower it also?

[@biscuitsalive]

@@Leanda-h8s no I didn’t lower the 701. As it’s lighter and narrower, I felt fine with the high seat. As long as you can dab a toe down on the slow stuff that’s normally enough on the lighter bikes. Where as you need a proper flat foot strong leg catch on the T7 when it starts to tip in slow technical stuff.

[@selegaso]

Most have reported on their experience after switching from the T7 to a 701. What about those who switched from the 701/690 to the T7? Are you satisfied or do you regret the move?

[@biscuitsalive]

The grass is always greener. But happy at moment. Will prob go lighter for next bike so further away from T7

[@queenslander954]

The Husky is a good bike but don’t forget to mention the 701 problems , like fuel pump issues , overheating , starting problems , the recall to fix the leaking fuel lines , gearbox problems .. ect ect

[@biscuitsalive]

I’m on a bunch of 701 groups/forums and haven’t heard much in the way of issues. Complaints about a false neutral. I’m aware of. And the clutch slave cylinder recall. Not heard about much else.

[@biscuitsalive]

Also. Are many of those issues on older models. I hear they tweaked models from 2019 to resolve a few issue.

[@stahl_gaming]

T7 if you want more road and soft/medium off road...701 if you want more off road also pretty good for long trips and -50 kg is a huge different compared with T7