Husqvarna released details of the 2020 Svartpilen 701 and Vitpilen 701 at the 2019 EICMA Show in Milan, including various minor tweaks to the visual package and rider controls. Sure, neither is all new or groundbreaking for the new model year, but Husky is aiming to improve on an already-proven platform.
Both the Svartpilen 701 and Vitpilen 701 will be equipped with spoked wheels as standard equipment, as well as receive CNC-machined rearsets for the 2020 model year. Both changes, although mostly visual, add a premium touch to the platform. Likewise, striking new liveries and graphics add to the attention-getting appearance.
The main components of the Svartpilen and Vitpilen, however, will remain identical. This includes the 692cc single-cylinder engine good for 68.7 hp at 8,410 rpm and 48.8 pound-feet of torque at 6,870 rpm on the Cycle World dyno. The lightweight trellis frame and Brembo braking componentry stay, as will the WP Apex suspension.
While nothing about the Svartpilen 701 or Vitpilen 701 makes them a ground-up redesign, both remain exciting motorcycles. Both aesthetically and with performance in mind.