Husqvarna and KTM are really close to start shipping the all-new 701 Supermoto, or at least this is what we understand watching the first official teaser on the dedicated microsite. It looks like building microsites for certain upcoming models is the latest fad, and frankly, we sort of enjoy this, as they are easier to watch and usually reveal relevant information.
After the initial 701 Concept introduced by Husky late in 2013, we got to see the Husqvarna 701 in the flesh at EICMA in November, but even then, the info was scarce. We also got news that things are progressing and the launch is imminent, but this is the first piece of official footage ahead of the moment so many have been eagerly waiting for.
The teaser is as extreme as the bike promises to be and shows a 701 Supermoto equipped with spiked tires getting ready for some crazy drift action on an equally extreme surface. Keeping close to its Swedish roots, Husqvarna takes the 701 to a frozen lake in the North, having it around a circuit improvised on the ice surface.
A snow plow clears the surface of the frozen lake and reveals what looks now like the layout of a supermoto circuit. Action is cut short as the bike takes off in a blizzard of ice shards, but we know there's more to come soon.
A heavyweight supermoto beast
Surely, some might argue that a 700cc supermotard is a bit too much on the heavy side. However, a 67 hp single-cylinder powerplant (expected to be confirmed) with a slipper clutch and WP suspensions are most likely going to provide a blasting riding experience, at least to the bolder, more daring riders.
We want more of this bike, and we know we're not the only ones. No word on pricing so far, and we still don't know whether KTM will send this machine across the pond to the USA. Mattighofen has a history of being very picky...
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