NEW MOTORCYCLE
The New Motorcycles 2015
1) Kawasaki H2/H2R
Without doubt, this supercharged machine—in track-only H2R form or as a street-legal H2 model—is
at the top of our must-ride list. Simply put, no other production
motorcycle is supercharged, and we absolutely need to feel the
otherworldly accelerative effects of that chain- and gear-driven blower,
which spins at 10 times the speed of the crankshaft and transforms this
new-from-the-ground-up Kawasaki into a bona fide 200-plus-mph machine. A
full suite of electronics will keep that front wheel on the pavement,
while top-notch suspension and brakes will undoubtedly do their best to
give these heavy H2s an agility that suitably complements their insane
straight-line abilities.
2) Ducati 1299 Panigale S
This is the first production Ducati to crack the 200-horsepower barrier, thanks to a 1285cc Superquadro V-twin engine that produces 205 horses at 10,500 rpm and 106.7 pound-feet of torque at 8,750 rpm. While the stroke is identical to the 1199’s, the bore of the 1299 has been increased to 116mm, which means the pistons now measure more than 4.5 inches across! Compared to the Panigale 1199, a bike we already love, the new 1299 has a half-degree less steering rake, for quicker response, and its swingarm pivot has been lowered 4mm for improved geometry with the drive sprocket. An 1199 is still available, but it’s only sold as the race-ready Panigale 1199R model.
This is the first production Ducati to crack the 200-horsepower barrier, thanks to a 1285cc Superquadro V-twin engine that produces 205 horses at 10,500 rpm and 106.7 pound-feet of torque at 8,750 rpm. While the stroke is identical to the 1199’s, the bore of the 1299 has been increased to 116mm, which means the pistons now measure more than 4.5 inches across! Compared to the Panigale 1199, a bike we already love, the new 1299 has a half-degree less steering rake, for quicker response, and its swingarm pivot has been lowered 4mm for improved geometry with the drive sprocket. An 1199 is still available, but it’s only sold as the race-ready Panigale 1199R model.
3) Yamaha YZF-R1
Yamaha knows how to build a superbike. Case in point: the all-new Yamaha YZF-R1, whose 998cc 4-cylinder engine is a technical marvel boasting a cross-plane crank, titanium connecting rods, big valves, higher 13.0:1 compression, and compact combustion chambers. Yamaha tells us this latest R1 was developed largely on the track, and parts such as its magnesium wheels, LED lights, and titanium exhaust prove that Yamaha has been serious about keeping weight in check. Fully fueled and ready to ride, the R1 tips the scales at a claimed 439 lb. The R1M, with Ohlins Electronic Racing Suspension, is also available, but Yamaha says fewer than 500 of these limited-edition models will be available.
Yamaha knows how to build a superbike. Case in point: the all-new Yamaha YZF-R1, whose 998cc 4-cylinder engine is a technical marvel boasting a cross-plane crank, titanium connecting rods, big valves, higher 13.0:1 compression, and compact combustion chambers. Yamaha tells us this latest R1 was developed largely on the track, and parts such as its magnesium wheels, LED lights, and titanium exhaust prove that Yamaha has been serious about keeping weight in check. Fully fueled and ready to ride, the R1 tips the scales at a claimed 439 lb. The R1M, with Ohlins Electronic Racing Suspension, is also available, but Yamaha says fewer than 500 of these limited-edition models will be available.
4) Honda RC213V-S
In our opinion, this Honda—effectively a street-legal version of Marc Marquez’s V-4-powered MotoGP racebike revealed at the big EICMA motorcycle show last fall in Milan—was designed to steal attention away from the likes of the Kawasaki H2, Yamaha R1, and Ducati 1299 Panigale. Well, it worked. Although a serious lack of actual information about this RC213V-S means we’re not totally convinced that Honda will actually build the bike, we really like what we see. Honda has a wonderful history with V-4s, and a seriously fast V-4 sportbike with a strong mechanical relationship to Marquez’s MotoGP machine would be nothing short of a blast to ride.
In our opinion, this Honda—effectively a street-legal version of Marc Marquez’s V-4-powered MotoGP racebike revealed at the big EICMA motorcycle show last fall in Milan—was designed to steal attention away from the likes of the Kawasaki H2, Yamaha R1, and Ducati 1299 Panigale. Well, it worked. Although a serious lack of actual information about this RC213V-S means we’re not totally convinced that Honda will actually build the bike, we really like what we see. Honda has a wonderful history with V-4s, and a seriously fast V-4 sportbike with a strong mechanical relationship to Marquez’s MotoGP machine would be nothing short of a blast to ride.
5) Ducati Multistrada 1200S
We already know the Multistrada pretty well, but the new 1200S for 2015 has something special up its sleeve: DVT. This stands for Desmodromic Variable Timing, and we’re told it works wonders with the powerband of Ducati’s 1198cc Testastretta V-twin. In short, by minimizing valve overlap at low rpm and by increasing it at higher rpm, the latest Multistrada has the best of all worlds: excellent low-end torque, broad midrange power, and a superior top end any time that ride-by-wire throttle is whacked and kept open. We’re sure DVT makes for a fun ride, and the 2015 model has been enhanced by upgraded electronics and semi-active Sachs suspension, which is standard on the 1200S model.
We already know the Multistrada pretty well, but the new 1200S for 2015 has something special up its sleeve: DVT. This stands for Desmodromic Variable Timing, and we’re told it works wonders with the powerband of Ducati’s 1198cc Testastretta V-twin. In short, by minimizing valve overlap at low rpm and by increasing it at higher rpm, the latest Multistrada has the best of all worlds: excellent low-end torque, broad midrange power, and a superior top end any time that ride-by-wire throttle is whacked and kept open. We’re sure DVT makes for a fun ride, and the 2015 model has been enhanced by upgraded electronics and semi-active Sachs suspension, which is standard on the 1200S model.
New Motorcycles We’re Dying to Ride in 2014.
Well, it’s that time of year again, when Christmas becomes a fast-fading memory and we all start crafting New Year’s resolutions. But rather than making a list of commitments we’ll struggle to keep, we thought it would be a lot more fun to look ahead and create a list of the 10 motorcycles we most look forward to riding in 2014. By this, we mean production machines we haven’t ridden yet, but need to get on as soon as possible. Without further do, our list:
BMW R nineT
It’s clear that BMW’s designers have had lots of fun with the naked R nineT roadster, and we want so see if the bike’s dynamics back up those great looks. The R nineT, which celebrates the 90th anniversary of BMW Motorrad, goes after a hipper, more contemporary crowd with its stripped looks, rich textures, and black wheels, plus an available brushed-aluminum tail section that transforms this new German into a café racer of sorts. We’re glad BMW has chosen to power the R nineT with the air- and oil-cooled version of the company’s 1170cc boxer engine because it’s more in character with this elemental machine than the liquid-cooled flat-twin found in other BMWs such as the R1200GS. On sale in March.
Ducati Monster 1200
For 20 years, the Monster has been a huge success for Ducati, growing continually more powerful along the way. And now there’s an all-new Monster 1200 on the horizon continuing that tradition. It’s called the 1200, and its powered by the liquid-cooled 11-degree Testastretta 1198 engine that makes 135 hp in the base model and 145 in the 1200 S. Yes, that’s the Diavel engine, and it’s mounted in a bike that’s much bigger than before, with a wheelbase 2.4 in. longer than the Monster 1100 Evo’s. Claimed weight of the big new 2014 Monster, fitted with a huge 4.6-gallon fuel tank, is 460 pounds. The Monster 1200 costs $13,495; the S goes for $15,995.
Harley-Davidson Street 750 and 500
As Harley’s first all-new model in 13 years, the Street is hugely important, a bike aimed at the young urban buyers from around the world who were described by one exec as Harley’s “path to the future.” Streets for the US market are built in Harley’s Kansas City plant, and they’re powered by an all-new liquid-cooled 60-degree V-twin with chain-driven single overhead camshafts that operate four valves per cylinder. Called the Revolution X and smoothed by a single balance shaft, this powerplant helps keep the seat height and center of gravity low, which is important because the Street—which weighs 480 pounds gassed up and ready to ride—is positioned as a first bike, one with significantly more suspension travel than a Sportster. But will it sound like a Harley?
MV Agusta Turismo Veloce 800
With regard to MV Agusta’s new sport-touring bike, boss Giovanni Castiglioni says there was no point in copying the BMW GS example. “To us, a BMW GS is like a Range Rover. With the new Turismo Veloce 800, we aspired to create a Porsche Panamera.” To accomplish this, MV designed a new frame and powered it with the company’s familiar 798cc triple, which is controlled by the latest MVICS electronics offering eight levels of traction control and three riding modes. With its trick TFT dash, standard quickshifter, and hard bags (on the Lusso model), the new Turismo Veloce, which has claimed weights of 428 lb. (base) and 456 lb. (Lusso), really looks like a sportbike tailor-made for a weekend trip up California’s Highway 1.
BMW R1200RT
Just about everything is new with BMW’s big boxer-powered tourer for 2014. Most important, the main frame is stronger, and the rider triangle formed by the handlebars, seat and footpegs has been lowered nearly an inch (20mm) to make it easier for shorter riders to reach the ground. Moreover, new bodywork with the power-adjustable windscreen is said to offer riders much better weather protection. Perhaps more significant, the air- and liquid-cooled 1170cc boxer has been fitted with a heavier crankshaft and alternator that smoothens the powertrain and makes the bike harder to stall. Neat tech: Hill Start Control is available, which will keep your R1200RT from rolling backward while you’re starting on an uphill slope. San Francisco riders, take note.
KTM RC390
While we’re still not certain if KTM will ever import the RC390 into the US, that just makes us all the more eager to ride this race-ready little bike as soon as possible. Just check out the specs: With a claimed dry weight of only 324 pounds and a liquid-cooled 373cc four-stroke single that puts out 43 horsepower, this electric-start KTM should be a kick to ride on twisty roads or a track, aided by aggressive chassis geometry, WP suspension, and good brakes that feature a radially mounted four-pot front caliper with a 300mm disc. With its one-piece trellis frame that’s stiffer than the 390 Duke’s, plus a steering-head angle decreased to 23.5 degrees for quicker response, KTM’s RC390 is like a Moto3 racebike for the street.
Honda Valkyrie
To get back into the heavyweight cruiser category, Honda has stuffed the latest version of its 1832cc liquid-cooled horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine into an all-new aluminum twin-spar frame and created the Valkyrie, a bike that should accelerate like a scalded cat because it weighs 150 pounds less than a Gold Wing. Like the Rune before it, the 2014 Honda Valkyrie features a single-sided swingarm, and its seat is only 28.8 inches off the pavement, helping it appeal to shorter riders. The Valkyrie has a modern look, thanks in part to an LED headlight, taillight, and turn signals, plus digital LCD instruments. Accessories include short and tall windscreens, plus saddlebags. Look for the Valkyrie to arrive in April.
Ducati Superleggera
Yeah, we know that only 500 are being built, but the Ducati Superleggera (super lightweight in Italian) may well be the ultimate sportbike. At $65,000, it ain’t cheap, but it’s a technological tour de force that weighs a claimed 342 lb. dry, or 390 lb. in wet, ready to ride, form. The Superleggera’s 1198cc V-twin, said to have more than 200 horsepower, has had its crankshaft significantly reduced in mass, and titanium intake valves are now employed. Titanium is also used for the exhaust, and even for the coil spring that winds around the Öhlins TTX36 shock. Moreover, lightweight magnesium is used liberally on the bike, most noticeably in the pyramidal structure that acts as front section of the frame and airbox. Although the Superleggera is an extreme bike that’s essentially custom-built, it’s backed by Ducati’s two-year, unlimited-mileage warranty.
Motus MST-R
As a pair of big American-made sport-tourers powered by a longitudinally mounted pushrod V-4, the Moti are loaded with torque: a claimed 120 pound-feet that peaks at only 5800 rpm. This means these Alabama-built bikes can tackle the twisties without needing to be shifted all the time, while also being able to cruise on the highway with the engine spinning a claimed 3,000 rpm in top gear at 70 mph. With Brembo brakes, Ohlins suspension, and OZ wheels, the new Moti boast some big-name hardware, and the company tells us the bikes have a range of 250 miles. The standard MST has a claimed 160 hp; the MST-R, the one with the red valve covers, 180. We hope to ride a production Motus soon.
Honda CBR1000RR SP
While Honda’s CBR1000RR hasn’t been the fastest or most advanced literbike for the last few years now, we’ve always liked it. And this SP version will likely make us like it more, courtesy of Öhlins suspension, Brembo front brakes and racier ergonomics brought about by new clip-ons and footpegs. This Honda may not have traction control, but its engine is essentially blueprinted, thanks to pistons and connecting rods are hand picked for best balance. That, together with a new cylinder head and exhaust, is good for an undisclosed bump in horsepower and torque. While it’s strange to see a Honda sporting Brembos, Öhlins and Pirelli tires (Diablo Supercorsa SCs), this SP, estimated at $17,000, could either be a swan song for the CBR or a prelude to an RC of some sort.----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
KTM 690 Duke 2013
For 2013, the 690 Duke returns with a host of upgrades aimed to keep the Single at the top of Mattighofen’s standard-bike throne. A redesigned cylinder head has dual-spark ignition (firing one or both sparkplugs as needed), while a revised ride-by-wire engine-management system improves fuel economy. Additionally, modifications to the intake and exhaust help increase output to a claimed 70 horsepower. A slipper clutch reduces rear-wheel hop during high-rpm downshifts.
A chrome-moly trellis frame, aluminum subframe, WP suspension and Brembo brakes should make the Duke fun for the daily commute, backroad riding or even track days. Another bonus: The seat height has been lowered by more than an inch (34.0 to 32.9 in.) to accommodate a wider range of riders.
The $8999 machine will be available in two colors, black or white.
MOTO GP
WEATHER EFFECTS DUCATI TEST AT JEREZ
Ducati Corse Press Release:
Just a few days after the Ducati Desmosedici GP13’s official unveiling at Madonna di Campiglio, the Ducati Development Team was already busy at Jerez for the first of a number of tests planned for the coming weeks in preparation for the new season.
The three-day test, which started on Saturday at the Andalusian circuit, concluded today. The team, with new test rider Michele Pirro and regular Franco Battaini, worked on the development of the GP13, which will return to the track in two weeks in Sepang at the hands of Ducati Team riders Andrea Dovizioso and Nicky Hayden.
Unfortunately, the bad weather that has hit Southern Spain in recent days prevented the team from completing its scheduled work program, as track time was limited for both riders.
Bernhard Gobmeier was present at the track for the first time in his new role as Ducati Corse General Manager. “Unfortunately we had some bad luck with the weather, and for two days we were able to do almost nothing,” Gobmeier said. “It rained almost the whole time. Today we squeezed three days of work into about five hours, which obviously required skipping some of the steps we had planned. Anyway, some interesting and positive results emerged, in terms of both the chassis and electronic strategies that we tried. If nothing else, we established a clear line to follow in our next test at Jerez. Anyway, I was very pleased to see how concentrated the guys on the test team worked. Everybody was very motivated.”
Michele Pirro, the 26-year-old Italian from San Giovanni Rotondo, added, “The big problem was the weather. That’s always a risk with Jerez in January. Fortunately, we were able to do some laps this afternoon and gather some important data for developing the bike. It was nice to get back on the track after two months.”
The next test, which will be attended by the Ducati Team riders, will take place at Sepang (Malaysia) 5-7 February, and will be the first of three pre-season tests organized by IRTA, with the season-opening MotoGP race scheduled for the first weekend of April in Qatar.
For more information: www.ducati.com
NEW YZF R4 250 cc 2012
Suzuki GSX-R750 2012 NEWS
Suzuki GSX-R750 2012 model delivers superb engine performance,
crisp handling and light weight motor bike with a 750cc, 16 valve,
4-stroke, DOHC engine, 6 speed close-ratio transmission, 4 into 1 Suzuki
Exhaust Tuning (SET) valve, Suzuki Dual Throttle Valve (SDTV) fuel
injection system, electric starter, 4.5 gallons fuel capacity, 130mm
ground clearance, 810mm seat height, 1390mm wheelbase, weighs 419lbs,
chrome-nitride-coated upper compression and oil control rings,
pentagonal ventilation holes, lightweight Showa Big Piston front-Fork
(BPF) suspension, etc.
Specifications:
Engine: 750cc, 16 valve, 4-stroke, DOHC
Transmission: 6-speed close-ratio
Bore & Stroke: 70.0 mm x 48.7 mm
Compression ratio: 12.5 : 1
Injection: Suzuki Dual Throttle Valve (SDTV) injection system
Starter: Electric
Weight: 419lbs
Seat height: 810mm
Fuel capacity: 4.5 gallons (18 liters)
Front tires: 120/70ZR17M/C (58W), tubeless
Rear tires: 180/55ZR17M/C (73W), tubeless
Front brakes: Twin disc brakes, 310mm, full float
Rear brakes: 4 piston Brembo monoblock calipers
Specifications:
Engine: 750cc, 16 valve, 4-stroke, DOHC
Transmission: 6-speed close-ratio
Bore & Stroke: 70.0 mm x 48.7 mm
Compression ratio: 12.5 : 1
Injection: Suzuki Dual Throttle Valve (SDTV) injection system
Starter: Electric
Weight: 419lbs
Seat height: 810mm
Fuel capacity: 4.5 gallons (18 liters)
Front tires: 120/70ZR17M/C (58W), tubeless
Rear tires: 180/55ZR17M/C (73W), tubeless
Front brakes: Twin disc brakes, 310mm, full float
Rear brakes: 4 piston Brembo monoblock calipers
R1 superbike
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