Powered by a 1,043cc inline-four developing an impressive 136bhp and 81lb/ft of torque. The all-new engine makes this the most powerful Z1000 so far and we expect it to turn the new generation model into also the fastest Z1000. The chances for that to happen are quite big because the new aluminum frame reduces overall weight, about which Kawasaki hasn’t yet mentioned a word. Yet they do brag about better mass centralization and the ZX-10R cast aluminum frame, which makes its way around the top of the engine, keeps overall width at a level that allows even female riders to ride the Kawasaki Z1000 easily
KTM has presented the first of 100 RC8R Akrapovic Race Replicas. Thanks to its integrated Club Race Kit, inclusive of an Akrapovic EVO4-exhaust system, modified cylinder head gasket and injection mapping, the 1190 RC8R Akrapovic Race Replica can now achieve 180 hp and is therefore one of the most potent of Superbikes on the market. And anyone who rarely lets off steam on a closed racing circuit can use the noble replica with the distinctive Akrapovic scorpion to ride with passion in normal traffic, with the normal stock exhaust system.
The two-cylinder bike, which has already been successfully deployed in the IDM, is already available as a series model. It represents a highly modern Superbike concept that is refined with high quality components, race-ready WP suspension elements and Brembo brake components. Every single unit of the 100 specially-numbered motorcycles is a lightning fast collector's item and proof of the strong cooperation between KTM and Akrapovic, the leading manufacturer of high-end.
BMW has finally pulled the wraps off its new S 1000 RR superbike, and let's just say we're anything but disappointed. First, the most important bits: 193 horsepower at 13,000 RPM, 82.5 lb-ft of torque at 9,750 RPM, 455.3 pounds with a full tank of gas. For those keeping track – which is probably just about anyone interested enough to read this post – those statistics are enough to give the big Beemer the most horsepower and best power-to-weight ratio of all literbikes intended for public consumption.
Technophiles and anyone else wanting to post the best lap times possible will also be pleased to know that the S 1000 RR will be available with factory ABS and an extremely advanced traction control system. There's also an HP Gearshift Assistant that will allow for full-power clutchless upshifts.
Surely the most controversial element of the bike's otherwise conventional styling will be the asymmetrical headlights, which are the only immediately noticeable link to the rest of BMW's motorcycle lineup. Expect U.S. sales to begin early in 2010 for what's expected to be a rather attractive price. Want to know more? Click past the break to see a video of the bike in action and BMW's official press release.
Some bikers like a fully faired sports bike, while some don’t. But almost all bikers agree Kawasaki Ninja 650R is a great, fun-to-ride middleweight motorcycle. The 2010 Kawasaki ER-6n simply leaves a little more of that torque, rev-happy 650 twin’s innovative inner beauty out where you can see it, revealing this soulful machine’s mechanical purity of purpose.
Kawasaki has recently launched their all-new 2010 Z1000 super naked and while the opinions of fans vary from "aggressive and powerful" to "it could have shown better build quality", nobody will ever call this motorcycle dulling. Kawasaki claims this is their stripped-down Ninja ZX-10R and while that’s an ostentatious way of putting things.
New in every aspect, the bike is now being powered by a 1,043cc inline-four developing an impressive 136bhp and 81lb/ft of torque. The all-new engine makes this the most powerful Z1000 so far and we expect it to turn the new generation model into also the fastest Z1000. The chances for that to happen are quite big because the new aluminum frame reduces overall weight, about which Kawasaki hasn’t yet mentioned a word.
Yet they do brag about better mass centralization and the ZX-10R cast aluminum frame, which makes its way around the top of the engine, keeps overall width at a level that allows even female riders to ride the Kawasaki Z1000 easily. Also, aerodynamics should be significantly improved
Mana 850 isn’t the first bike to employ a continuously variable transmission (CVT), but it is the first bike to add the feature of an electronically controlled semi-manual 7-speed sequential transmission, and a choice of three engine mappings, all made accessible at the push of a few buttons. But what might really generate the brouhaha is the fact that the 839cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, eight valve, single overhead cam, twin sparkplug per-cylinder, 90-degree V-Twin powering the Mana is sourced virtually unchanged from a scooter.
Aprilia have set up the CVT with three automatic settings and a pseudo sequential seven speed manual. The auto settings are touring (for good economy), sport (for maximum performance) and rain (for a softer power delivery for good traction in the wet), and they are interchangeable on the move with a handlebar switch. The pseudo manual option is controlled also via the handlebars or through the traditional left foot selector. There is no clutch lever.
Kawasaki proudly announces the release of the new 2009 ER-6n sports bike. Featuring a host of changes including a revised, quick revving 649cc engine, new sharper styling, new rider friendly seat and reduced vibration, Kawasaki is confident that the new ER-6n will be not only widely accepted but thoroughly enjoyed by the Australian motorcycling community.
When the ER-6n first made its debut three years ago, it offered the market a unique combination of performance, accessibility and stunning good looks. More mature, the new ER-6n improves on this combination while maintaining the key character of its predecessor.
The most apparent change is the sharper, more aggressive new styling. The curved lines of the original ER-6n’s unique design are replaced by angular, edged contours. The overall image of the new ER-6n is more active: all lines move forward, giving the bike a crouching appearance. The characteristic trellis frame and offset laydown rear shock remain, but the frame has been completely redesigned with even greater attention to detail giving the new bike an even higher quality finish.
Honda Motor Co. and Yamaha Motor Co. have set launch dates for electric motorcycles, the Nikkei business daily reported today.
Yamaha aims to launch electric motorcycles by 2010 with a range of 60 miles on a single charge, comparable to those with 50cc engine displacements, the paper said.
There was no information regarding the Yamaha's battery.
Honda, the world's largest motorcycle maker, will launch lithium-ion battery electric motorcycles in 2011, targeting fleet customers such as Japan Post Service, which likely would consider replacing its 90,000 gas-powered motorcycles with electric models.
Neither officials at Honda nor Yamaha would provide additional details, including prices.
A Honda Cub Concept fuel-cell motorcycle is pictured above.
According to French magazine, Motorevue we could see a totally new Kawasaki Z1000 in the works for next year. The report goes that early presentations could occur in the coming autumn motor shows.
The new four cylinder Kawasaki Z1000 would be more agressive and sports oriented, thanks to the latest generation motor from the ZX-10R. The image is an interpretation of what Motorevuew thinks the bike would look like
Honda Motor has updated the popular model Silverwing 600, he built it into a version of Gran Turismo.
New Honda Silverwing GT 600 2010 model year will be in European showrooms in autumn this year.
A new, very well-read dashboard. New will be a powerful double front headlight. Will increase the progress of the suspension. The braking system will default ABS fitted as option - CBS.
There will also be a parking brake and proprietary system for protection against thieves from Honda called HISS. Engine that will be 4-stroke 2-cylinder with electronic injection, a capacity of 37 kW at 7 000 rpm.
Yamaha is developing a 3-cylinder scooter T-Max 750, which will become competitor to the Gilera GP800. Engine capacity of 750 sm.kub. the addition of 3 cylinder to the 500-cubic power unit model T-Max 500. Tranmission and the suspension will be finalized in the light of a more powerful engine.
Sharper and lighter than anything that calls itself competition: 120 Nm torque, 155 HP at 10,000 rpm and withs less than 200 kilos fully tanked.
Nonetheless, thanks to innovative solutions and meticulous detail work, we've achieved unsurpassed rideability - on the street and on the racetrack, in every situation - of life or riding.
2009 KTM 1190 RC8 (Lowered) - Specifications
Engine type 2-cylinder, 4-stroke, V 75° Displacement 1148 cc Bore x stroke 103 x 69 mm (4.06 x 2.72") Performance (homologated) 113.8 kW @ 10000 rpm Max. torque 120 Nm @ 8000 rpm Compression ratio 12.5:1 Starter/Battery Electric Starter/12 V 11.2 Ah Transmission 6 gears, dog clutch engagement Fuel Mixture Generation Keihin EFI (throttle body 52 mm (2.05")) Control 4 V/DOHC Lubrication Pressure lubrication with 2 Eaton pumps Engine lubrication Motorex, fully synthetic, SAE 10W-50 Primary drive 40:76 Final drive 17:37 Cooling Liquid cooled Clutch Wet multi-disc clutch, operated hydraulically Motor Management Keihin EMS
Frame Chromium-Molybdenum trellis frame, powder-coated Subframe Aluminium 7020 Handlebar Aluminium stump handlebar Front suspension WP-USD Ø 43 mm Rear suspension WP-Monoshock Suspension travel front/rear 120/125 mm (4.7/4.9") Front brake 2 x Brembo four piston, radially bolted caliper, brake disc 320 mm (12.6") Rear brake Brembo two piston, fixed caliper, brake disc 220 mm (8.66") Rims, front/rear Cast aluminium wheels 3.5 x 17"; 6 x 17" Tires, front/rear 120/70 ZR 17; 190/55 ZR 17 Chain X-ring 5/8 x 5/16" Main silencer Stainless steel underfloor silencer with regulated catalytic converter Steering head angle 66.7° Trail 90/92 mm (3.54 / 3.62") Wheel base 1430 mm (56.30") Ground clearance (unloaded) 110 mm (4.33") Seat height 805/825 mm (31.69/32.48") Tank capacity approx. 16.5 liters/3.5 liters reserve (4.36/0.92 gal) Weight (no fuel) approx. 184 kg (405.6 lbs)
The KTM RC8 was already the most impressive all-new litre-class superbike launched in recent years, and for 2009, KTM have upped the ante with a higher performance version – the 1190 RC8 R – which is now being shown at the EICMA in Milan.
With its new Keihin engine management system, the RC8 R’s 1195cc v-twin has been tweaked to produce 165bhp at 10,250rpm and 123Nm of torque at 8,000rpm. And for those who want still more KTM are offering an optional racing kit that’ll boost power to 180bhp. With its new orange-black-and-white paintjob, high-spec fully adjustable WP suspension, Brembo brakes and lightweight cast aluminium wheels, the RC8 R weighs 183kg dry, and looks flat out fantastic.
A REVOLUTIONARY DESIGN PROJECT HAS LED TO A TRULY UNIQUE MOTORCYCLE AND APRILIA'S RETURN TO THE SUPERBIKE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP.
APRILIA RSV4
Coming from a unique sporting heritage, Aprilia is proud to present the RSV4, the bike destined to mark the company’s return to the Superbike World Championship in 2009. This extraordinary machine has been conceived, designed and developed for competition use entirely by Aprilia Racing. With its 65° V four, 999 cc engine, the RSV4 is a truly revolutionary machine. As riders have come to expect from Aprilia, it is totally innovative in styling and technology. V-four engine architecture, total electronic engine management, and an exceptionally light and compact chassis are just some of the features that make this bike unique in the world of motorcycling.
The road-going version of the RSV4 also benefits from the extraordinary technical know-how that Aprilia Racing has accumulated over two decades of success in MotoGP, and is packed with advanced racing solutions. In short, the RSV4 stands alone as an exclusive, genuine, and in many ways unique racing replica.
With 31 world championship titles, 250 MotoGP wins and 8 Superbike victories in the last sixteen years, Aprilia is a legend in modern motorcycling. Aprilia motorcycles have dominated circuits all over the world thanks to unconventional technical solutions, experimentation and innovation and, sometimes, by revolutionising technology thought to be unchangeable.
With this unique sporting heritage behind them, Aprilia is proud to present the RSV4, the bike with which Aprilia will return to the Superbike World Championship in 2009. This extraordinary machine has been conceived, designed and developed entirely by Aprilia Racing for competition use.
The RSV4 will make its debut in the 2009 Superbike World Championship. With four cylinders, 999 cc and top of the class power in the race-ready version, this revolutionary machine is packed with innovative design and manufacturing solutions of the sort we have come to expect from Aprilia. A V-four engine with total electronic management, and an exceptionally light and compact chassis are just some of the features that make this bike unique in the world of motorcycling. The revolutionary design of the Aprilia RSV4 comes directly from Europe's biggest and most successful racing team.
The road-going version of the RSV4 also benefits from the extraordinary technical know-how that Aprilia Racing has accumulated over two decades of success in MotoGP, and is packed with advanced solutions from GP racing. In short, the RSV4 stands alone as a exclusive, genuine, and in many ways unique racing replica.
The Aprilia RSV4 is powered by the most revolutionary and most powerful engine ever developed by Aprilia. This 65° V four unit is based on an architecture that is unique in the world of supersport motorcycles, and features refined engineering combined with prestigious materials and advanced electronic management solutions.
The new engine uses multi-mapping ride-by-wire technology, a solution that opens up new horizons in engine control, and offers virtually infinite opportunities for power delivery and traction control (present as standard on the racing version).
The choice of a narrow V layout has led to the development of an incredibly narrow engine. This in turn has permitted weight to be centralised and chassis performance dramatically improved (thanks to a short wheelbase and long swingarm). The narrow V-four configuration permits a longer stroke to be used, with clear benefits in terms of improved engine breathing. High engine speeds can therefore be reached without having to extend the width of the crankcase. This is fundamentally important to aerodynamics and manoeuvrability (two characteristics for which Aprilia motorcycles have always been universally acclaimed).
The monobloc cylinder block features integrated liners for maximum rigidity and consistent efficiency. The air intake trumpets are variable in length. Each bank of cylinders has a servomotor dedicated exclusively to the operation of their two throttle bodies. The aperture of the four butterfly valves, and therefore the volume of air inducted, can therefore be controlled independently. This solution opens up new horizons in electronic engine and power management, resulting in truly advanced integral traction control. A cassette type gearbox and a slipper clutch demonstrate the racing character of this engine.
The Aprilia RSV4 has been designed and developed with competition in mind, and naturally offers all the adjustments normally found on racing machines. In particular, this most powerful Aprilia ever made stands out for its complete range of chassis adjustments. The variable geometry frame not only allows you to change parameters like headstock angle (thanks to interchangeable steering bushings), but even lets you adjust swingarm and engine position. Racing technology has been used for all aspects of construction. The RSV4's aluminium frame and swingarm are constructed from a clever mix of thick-walled parts and variable section sheet.
All components are naturally of the highest calibre. They include an Öhlins fork, rear monoshock and steering damper, Brembo monobloc brake calipers and forged aluminium wheels.
The styling of the Aprilia RSV4 has followed the same approach as the rest of the design. The RSV4's racing character is clear from every component, and from the absence of solutions chosen only for appearances. As a result the overall design of the RSV4 and the advanced technology of its component parts merge into a uniquely harmonious whole that is superbly functional on the racetrack - the natural habitat of this latest Aprilia.
The fairing has been developed in the wind tunnel. Minimal in size, it in no way detracts from the stunning technology of the engine. The frame/engine system is fully visible and bulges like muscles beyond the fairing.
The triple headlight cluster makes the RSV4 instantly recognisable and unique from the very first glance.
The superbly lightweight tail slopes upwards to emphasise the dynamic nature of the Aprilia RSV4. Even when stationary, the bike simply exudes a desire for speed and competition.
2009 Aprilia RSV4 - Press Release Specifications
Engine Aprilia 65° cc longitudinal V four stroke. Liquid cooled. Double overhead camshaft; four valves per cylinder. Bore and stroke 78 x 52.3 mm. Displacement 998.9cc Compression ratio 12.8:1 Max. power at crank 180 HP (132 kW) at 12,500 rpm Max. torque at crank 115 Nm at 10,000 rpm Fuel system Variable height intake trumpets. Airbox with aerodynamic side intakes. 4 throttle bodes, 8 injectors, ride-by-wire fuel management. Multimapping
Ignition Electronic digital ignition integrated in the fuel management system.
Exhaust 4 into 2 into 1. Lambda probe oxygen sensor. Single lateral silencer. Integrated exhaust valve and catalytic converter. (Euro 3.)
Lubrication Wet sump. Two pumps (lubrication and cooling). Oil cooler.
Dimensions Overall length: 2,050 mm Overall width: 715 mm (at handlebars) Overall height: 1,165 mm Wheelbase: 1,424 mm Dry weight 179 Kg. Fuel tank 17 litres.
BMW has unveiled the newest generation of this line of powerful inline-four machines. The new K bikes sport a larger displacement, now with 1,293 cc, and an array of new enhancements and features. The 2009 K 1300 S, the most powerful street legal BMW, now offers 175 hp and the torque has been bumped by 7.5 ft-lb to a very impressive 103 ft-lb at 8250 rpm.
2009 BMW K 1300
New for 2009 are three K1300 models. The K 1300 S with 175 hp, the K 1300 R with 173 hp and the K 1300 GT with 160 hp. The new K bikes feature updated transmission and clutch assembly, plus smoother engine performance and new switchgear.
The DN-01 could offer enormous appeal to current car drivers looking to make the switch to motorcycles, but waiting for the right machine to come along to prompt them to do so. By offering them things they’re used to (automatic transmissions and storage space) combined with an image that adapts traditional outsider opinion of what a motorcycle should look like into a package that doesn’t scream “I have back hair,” the DN-01 could be the right bike for a lot of new riders. Combine all that with its sensible engine capacity and incredibly low seat height and you have an upmarket product that’s appealing and accessible in ways never before possible on two wheels. Do it Honda.
Honda DN-01
The Honda DN-01 combines the user friendliness of a scooter with the image of a performance cruiser and totally original, futuristic looks. Its unique selling point is the Human Friendly Transmission, a CVT programmed to work like a six-speed manual or a full automatic.
Honda DN-01
The Honda DN-01 combines the user friendliness of a scooter with the image of a performance cruiser and totally original, futuristic looks. Its unique selling point is the Human Friendly Transmission, a CVT programmed to work like a six-speed manual or a full automatic.
I dont know what version of this R1. While Yamaha is naturally tight-lipped about its upcoming new bikes, we’re confident we’ll be seeing the debut of an all-new R1 flagship this fall. Not surprisingly, Yamaha wants to keep this news confidential, so we don’t yet have official pictures of such a machine, but we’ve come up with some images that suggest what the ground-up redo of the new R1 might look like.
In 2008, Yamaha’s YZF-R1 reached the 10-year anniversary of its introduction. In 1998 the 150-horsepower R1 was nothing less than revolution. While being more vicious than the rest, it left the 143-horsepower 1998 Kawasaki ZX-9R for dead. Honda and Suzuki were nowhere near and got caught with their pants down. It took three full years for the others to catch up, and only Suzuki managed to take away the literbike crown with the all-new GSX-R1000 in 2001.
The new-generation YZF-R1 is more closely linked to our MotoGP winning M1 than ever before. For 2009 this legendary motorcycle is equipped with an all-new 998cc inline four-cylinder engine with a crossplane crankshaft that runs with an uneven firing interval of 270º - 180º - 90º - 180º. This innovative new design ensures superb throttle linearity, giving a feeling that the rider’s throttle hand is directly connected to the rear tyre. The new engine feels and sounds smoother than ever, and emits an unforgettable growl from the exhaust. Pushing out 182 PS at 12,500 rpm with 115.5 Nm of torque at 10,000 rpm, this MotoGP-inspired engine is without a doubt the most technologically advanced powerplant ever seen on a Yamaha supersport bike. And for the ultimate in feel and controllability, the new-generation R1 runs with an all-new Deltabox chassis offering an idealized rigidity balance.
Yamaha's Tesseract looks like something from the "Transformers" movie. It's not clear whether it would even be classified as a motorcycle, even if it made it to market, which is unlikely.
YamahaTesseract
By now, you’ve probably seen Yamaha’s four-wheeled concept bike Tesseract. But you haven’t seen it in motion. The company has an excellent Tokyo show mini-site up with movies and specs for all its concepts. We challenge you to watch the Bobby animation and tell us you don’t want one.
Yamaha’s Tesseract looks like it wound up on the cutting room floor from the “Transformers” movie. It has another one of those dreamweaver hybrid powerplants; the jury is out whether it would even be classified as a motorcycle. Would it look quite as cool with air bags, seatbelts and impact-resistant bumpers? I don’t think so. It’s kind of a grown-up version of one of those scooters for the “help-I’ve-fallen-and-can’t-get-up crowd.” Perfect for cruising supermarket aisles. A lot of showgoers cooed over the retro-classic Yamaha Sakura. A standard-style bike with an 1,100cc V-twin would generate a lot of showroom traffic, methinks.
Anyone that has been around Bikes or ATVs has seen and heard a Two Brothers exhaust at one time or another.. And they sound pretty sweet. The Two Brothers exhaust for the 250R was one of the first exhausts to hit the market for back in January, and so far I haven’t heard anything but good things about them.
Coming in three slip-on styles Aluminum, Titanium, and Carbon ranging from $400 - $500 they have a model to fit every ones budget and style. Interestingly enough, on their dyno chart they have a full exhaust on it, but I can’t find any information about it anywhere. So, perhaps it’s foreshadowing for things to come?
The Dyno charts do show some nice gains for a slip on with 1-2 horsepower gains over 4000RPM’s all the way to redline. Power aside, the one really nice feature for this exhaust is the available addition of a removable silencer that will reduce output 2-3db. Honestly tho, you know your neighbors are already jealous — So why not rub it and and keep the silencer out? But, if you’re neighbors are pains in the asses… It’s a nice option to have available to you.
The KTM RC8 vs the Yamaha R1? Bring it on!! Pics: Motorevue
In their latest issue, French magazine Motorevue would be doing a full-blown shootout between the hot new KTM 1190 RC8 and the mighty Yamaha R1. Pitting French-spec (?) 100bhp versions of the two machines against each other, Motorevue came to the conclusion that while the R1 remains unbeaten for top speed, the RC8 holds many advantages over the Japanese bike. According to MR, the RC8 has less demanding ergonomics, is more stable at high speeds, offers more cornering precision, and that its wonderfully unconventional styling has more ‘character.’
Here are Motorevue's figures for the two bikes:
KTM 1190 RC8 Top speed: >230km/h Power: 104.9bhp (measured at the crank) Dry weight: 188kg Price: 16,250 euros
Yamaha YZF R1 Top speed: >230km/h Power: 114bhp (measured at the crank) Dry weight: 172kg Price: 13,590 euros
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