Benelli TNT 1130

The Sport Evo makes an awful good impression in whatever situation and this translates into a great bike for riders who have a thing or two for performance, but still desire a bike that retains a comfy riding position. Once these two features are combined with the rider’s skills formed usually on super sports bikes, the result is a wonderful and long time collaboration that will definitely determine the rider to head at Benelli’s when a new bike is wanted.

After the company was revamped at the end of 2001, beginning of 2002, the first model that rolled out of the production line and has successfully been marketed was the Benelli Tornado Tre LE. Although the bike we’re talking about today doesn’t share that much features with the Tre LE, this last proves that heritage is a primordial issue and the maker started working right from where it abandoned.

A closer thing to it is the Tornado Naked Tre 1130. Introduced in 2004, this bike started the naked revolution in the Italian plant with an outstanding look and a 131.3 horsepower inline-triple engine fitted with DOHC and 12V.

A year later an even more exclusive and better performing naked bike was presented and it was called the Benelli Tornado Naked Tre 1130 Sport. The TnT Sport has further improved its performance so power and peak torque was even better.

The Sport Evo was introduced in 2007 and it represents the culmination of refinements that such a model could have ever received. The looks set it on a pedestal and once you swing a leg over it, there’s nothing to stop you from having the greatest riding experience as there are no drawbacks included in the package.

But what Triumph has to admit is that the Benelli is a great appearance in the city and a true companion when the road ahead stretches like it never intends to end. It is all a matter of attention to details and continuous attraction acting on the buyer’s eyes and soul. It all starts with the knitted headlight that makes it look like a bee for some and like a streetfighter for others, but it surely amazes everyone.

The small side fairing is sharp-looking and has the purpose of cutting through air like a knife while making the bike look corpulent and implicit able to remain stable at high speeds. A stylish gas tank further continues the lines of the bike and even though a bit tall, the handlebars are also there to cover that space and enhance a nice and comfortable riding position. The seat is fairly low (820mm above ground) and not as angled as on super sport bikes; it is more suitable for a sport-touring bike. Ending this perfect harmony is the rear end with those nice aerodynamic fins and the well blended in passenger seat. Underneath it, the exhaust creates a balance between the left and right side of the bike.

The Sport Evo will be easily identified thanks to its “evo” writing in the lower sides and “sport” on the passenger seat. Also contributing to that is the red and black combination realized with the intervention of the frame and rims which, no matter color scheme, can be found painted the same on the bike.

As soon as you get on the new Sport Evo you know that this won’t be your average riding experience because given to this bike’s versatility you really don’t know what feature of it will amaze you next. The engine pulls strongly at any rev range and the top quality chassis is the piece that completes the impeccable riding feel.

I immediately noticed that the seat is a perfect unit for it as it makes you feel like you’re one with the bike and not riding on top of it as you might expect from a motorcycle that you haven’t ridden before. The wide and tall handlebars don’t have your hands stretched and even though there are no scrappers on your riding suit the arrangement of the footpegs will surely have you willing to see if can touch the asphalt so why don’t wear them when going for a long ride?

Hit the starter button and bring to life the mighty 124 horsepower 1131cc inline-triple and while letting it worm up a little bit I suggest enjoying the wonderful bang that it produces and no vibrations would come near you while at idle and neither when pushing it strongly down the motorway.

Now that I was properly accommodated on top of a wormed up engine and with a clear route in my head I was good to go. In the urban jungle any bike in this category will perform excellent, but the Benelli is simply more than I can take. It delivers great torque from well down low and it is extremely easy to maneuver between cars on crowded streets and this helps a lot when taking it on a weekend trip.

Revving the engine shyly between stop signs isn’t the best performance of such a bike so I was on my way to the twisty paths of road on which I like to see the handling characteristics of a bike.

By the time I was approaching such an enjoyable sector of my short trip I was feeling well at home on the Tornado Naked Sport Evo. The bike’s easy and yet quick handling helped me take it through corners with the greatest ease and it really makes you feel like there’s nothing else that you would desire. Power is a twist of a throttle away and it would straighten out your ride immediately, while the powerful brakes will yet again prepare before the courageous lean over.

The fully adjustable front and rear suspensions will help a rider get even closer to its culminant point when riding a bike and I bet that it would happen on the same sector of road. The 50mm upside-down fork and tubular steel trellis swingarm keep it stable and safe around the corners proving that there can be no biggest expectancy from a bike in this category.

On the motorways I suggest approaching the naked aerodynamic position which involves the chin in the chest and the throttle kept opened with only the tip of your fingers. It has no point doing this if not rolling with high speed and in this case we’re talking about a top speed of over 160 mph. At this kind of speeds you can’t really talk about wind protection on a naked bike, but I have to say that it doesn’t feel like of a fully undressed Bandit or Hornet, the small fairing does complete with the goal of its creation.

An impressive Italian ride is all a rider can desire in a worm April day and I wasn’t about to become an exception. Awesome ride and top quality built bike.

Hall's bikes

This is Jon's '97 Honda Pacific Coast. These are wonderful bikes that never quite caught on. Honda made them first in '89, discontinued them after '90 only to restart production in '94. The last year for them was '98 and mine was the 111th bike built in 1997.

As I make changes, modifications or improvements I plan to document them here. Below is the list of what I have done so far. If it is worthy I will make a link and further explain what I have done and how I have done it.

The first change I did to my bike was to add a Hondaline backrest. Dot hated riding the bike without a backrest. It wasn't easy finding a backrest but I finally found a new one at a dealer on the internet.

After it became apparent I often fail to cancel my turn signal, I added a Signalminder from Kisan Technologies. Interestingly, all models of the PC prior to '97 came equipped with self canceling turn signals. Here is my review of the Signalminder as well as documentation of my installation.

I replaced the Honda tall windscreen with the original standard one. I did this to reduce air turbulence for the passenger. Dot had informed me that the back seat of the PC was not the nicest place to ride. It was suggested that the short windscreen was better for the passenger and since my bike came with it I put it on. If there is anything significant to report on this I will add it here. If you want to see what is involved with replacing the windscreen look at the installation of the Signalminder above.

This is Dot's Yamaha Virago 250. Starting to ride was Dot's idea and I knew she would need a bike that didn't intimidate her. I did some searching and this seemed to be a great choice. She is taking the MSF course the end of July so time will tell how well this works out.

TVS to Launch 100cc

TVS India in order to compete and make its position in the scooter segment is all set to launch a 100cc scooter from its Hosur facility near Bangalore, though the timeline has not been fixed.

Sources claim that TVS Bikes is reportedly considering a gearless scooter and will co-exist with the other two scooters - TVS Scooty Pep and TVS Scooty Streak which have engine displacement below 100cc at the moment.

The third largest two-wheeler maker of the India, TVS Motors Company has already taken a step ahead in improving its motorcycles portfolio in the TVS Apache RTR 180 in the premium segment and the 2009 model TVS Flame SR 125 in the executive segment and is yet continuing without resting. The company has lined up another bike in the executive segment, which will also be rolled out from Hosur facility, says a report that is not yet confirmed.

By the end of this fiscal year, TVS is also planning to launch its three-wheeler portfolio across the length and breadth of the country. Moreover, this three-wheeler is already retailed in states like Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra and a few others. Even four-stroke vehicle in petrol, LPG and CNG versions are also on the cards in the cities such as Delhi, Bangalore and Kolkata, where it is in great demand.

BMW IMME 1200

Nicolas Bubar (22) and Yves Dufeutrelle (24) are design students at the international school of design and they thought that a sports bike based on the BMW 1200 boxer would be good idea. Tell you what folks; it definitely was a good idea for the IMME 1200 would now be presented at the next Munich Motorcycle Show at BMW stands.

Nitin Khosa designed this amazing concept to satiate a thirty plus individual who was looking to redeem his attitude and youth with a stunning, aggressive, and evil looking bike. Khosa answered his cause by creating the Dacoit (a class of robbers in India who act in gangs and are usually armed and dangerous). The face of the bike depicts an evil figure whose eyes/headlights are peeping from underneath the hood.

The Embrio from Bombraider is a prototype, which could become a virtual reality somewhere around 2025 for this technology is too ultramodern considering the present generation bikes. It sports a single wheel and is powered by a hydrogen fuel cell, which creates power by mixing hydrogen and oxygen, creating only water as a by-product.

Harley Road King

Well then, first up sorry for the delay in getting these blogs to you, being a bit hectic at Kerrang would be an understatement, but i also had the fun of having some technology mishaps at home, and then to cap it all my housemate decided to take my mobile phone with him on holiday…….to Marbella……when it had all my notes and pictures on for these two bikes…..I wouldn’t mind but the phone came back from Marbella with a better tan than I have!

So what have I been up to the last week?? Well I have been conducting a very interesting experiment!!!

First up, having got everything now sorted, I will hopefully be going back to updating these Diaries in the way I intended, much more regularly, and focusing more on the adventures I have on bikes, and the enjoyment i get from them from just being a few review pieces!

Also my lovely Sponsors at Express Insurance have managed to sort me out not only with a handheld HD camera to film the Diaries, but also a rather cool on board camera for whichever bike I park my ass on, to allow you to actually hear, see and hopefully get a feel of what each bike is like to ride. I will endeavour to start the video Diaries next week having just got all the gear set up, and I cant wait to get cracking!

So with all that excitement out the way, what about the bikes I have been riding for the last couple of weeks?? Well having become accustomed to the grandiose luxury of some rather nice Harleys over the last few months, and having documented at length the way in which they differ from other bikes i.e. it’s more a lifestyle thing, and how they attract so much attention, so I thought it would be good to take one and go head to head with something completely different for a week. So the other day I took delivery of the lovely shiny and very CHIPS looking Harley Davidson Road King AND I also picked up a rather cool looking, entry level Yamaha XJ6 with the idea being, here I would have one bike that's perfect for long cruising comfortable journeys, and one that is what most learners would be looking at for their first bike when they pass their test, and therefore an awesome commuter bike, and compare how they ride on a daily basis……I’m not comparing the bikes against each other as such, more like finding out what they work best for.

First up, what’s the tail of the tape??

Well cost wise the Harley weighs in at a whopping £15,050, which would make a large dent in anyone's wallet, and means it is priced above pretty much all else in terms of bikes, way above say the £12k Triumph Rocket 3, while the XJ6 is a meagre £5,555 otr, or £5,900 for the ABS version I had, and also comes at the moment with 0% finance over 36 months at Streetbike with only a £99 deposit………….now that is cheap!

Engine wise the XJ6 diversion has a retuned version of the Yamaha 600cc unit that is also in the Diversion model, and comes from an old R6 lump, while the Harley has a whopping 1584 twin cam plant at its centre, and both have newly designed frames and tweaked this and that, with the Road King knocking out 65 BHP, and the little Yamaha a whopping 77 BHP.

Bajaj Auto posts

Despite a slowdown in two-wheeler sales, Bajaj Auto Ltd. has posted a net profit of Rs 1.75 billion (US$41 million) in the first quarter of this fiscal.

Following a restructuring which split the manufacturing and financial services businesses into separate firms, Bajaj Auto relisted in May this year. The company’s net sales for the quarter amounted to Rs 23.11 billion.

Bajaj sold 620,095 motorcycles, scooters and three-wheelers in the first quarter of this fiscal, an increase of 8.5 percent over the same period last year. The company, which expects two-wheeler sales to be flat during 2008-09, plans to launch four new 125cc bikes, weaning consumers away from lower-capacity, lower-margin 100cc motorcycles.

Bajaj Auto Limited (BAL) has decided to produce its first four-wheeler light commercial vehicle – the PV1500 – at its manufacturing facility at Waluj, near Aurangabad. This LCV, which is expected to hit the market by mid-2009, will be designed and developed in-house, by BAL’s own technical and R&D team.

At one time, Bajaj used to produce various components for its two-wheelers at its Waluj factory. The sheds where these components used to be made are now not in use, since components are sourced from outside. The company may use these sheds to set up assembly lines for the PV1500.

With a payload capacity of one tonne, the PV1500 will go up against the Tata Ace. To source components for their first four-wheeler LCV, Bajaj is also likely to set up a vendor park at the Waluj, where suppliers will be encouraged to set up operations

Electrical Digital Superbike

Do you have a passion of bike riding? If yes then get here is the World’s first electric Digital Superbike.

This is the amazing Superbike it is fastest run on road you can easily drive this bike anywhere it has great features such as up to 120mph in just 7-8 seconds without leaving any carbon footprint it is loaded with 10 battery packs and hopefully win in world’s first zero emissions road race and three motors to participate.

This is the amazing model bike I really like this bike I have a great passion of bike it looks attractive it has except for the apparent iPhone on the console.


Do you have a passion of bike riding? If yes then get here is the World’s first electric Digital Superbike.

This is the amazing Superbike it is fastest run on road you can easily drive this bike anywhere it has great features such as up to 120mph in just 7-8 seconds without leaving any carbon footprint it is loaded with 10 battery packs and hopefully win in world’s first zero emissions road race and three motors to participate.

This is the amazing model bike I really like this bike I have a great passion of bike it looks attractive it has except for the apparent iPhone on the console.


Do you have a passion of bike riding? If yes then get here is the World’s first electric Digital Superbike.

This is the amazing Superbike it is fastest run on road you can easily drive this bike anywhere it has great features such as up to 120mph in just 7-8 seconds without leaving any carbon footprint it is loaded with 10 battery packs and hopefully win in world’s first zero emissions road race and three motors to participate.

This is the amazing model bike I really like this bike I have a great passion of bike it looks attractive it has except for the apparent iPhone on the console.


Do you have a passion of bike riding? If yes then get here is the World’s first electric Digital Superbike.

This is the amazing Superbike it is fastest run on road you can easily drive this bike anywhere it has great features such as up to 120mph in just 7-8 seconds without leaving any carbon footprint it is loaded with 10 battery packs and hopefully win in world’s first zero emissions road race and three motors to participate.

This is the amazing model bike I really like this bike I have a great passion of bike it looks attractive it has except for the apparent iPhone on the console.


Do you have a passion of bike riding? If yes then get here is the World’s first electric Digital Superbike.

This is the amazing Superbike it is fastest run on road you can easily drive this bike anywhere it has great features such as up to 120mph in just 7-8 seconds without leaving any carbon footprint it is loaded with 10 battery packs and hopefully win in world’s first zero emissions road race and three motors to participate.

This is the amazing model bike I really like this bike I have a great passion of bike it looks attractive it has except for the apparent iPhone on the console.

Harley Davidson

Harley Davidson Motorcycles In India
Harley Davidson has launched in Indian Market with a Bang.The Company has already started looking to expand its dealerships in India and has set up its base as Gurgaon.

Lets have a look at the kind of motorcycles that are being offered by them in India.

Harley-Davidson produces heavyweight motorcycles (651cc+) in the custom, touring, roadster and power cruiser market segments. The Harley-Davidson range of motorcycles is divided into five families. Each family includes a variety of models, so there’s truly a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle to suit any rider. In addition we offer an exclusive range of limited production custom motorcycles lovingly assembled by our Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO) team to be the last word in styling, luxury and performance.
Sportster®motorcycles are tough, no-nonsense, stripped down, ready-for-action street bikes. First introduced in 1957, they have remained true to their original raw styling for more than half a century with a trademark low seat height, peanut fuel tank and natural riding position. They are the most narrow,
nimble and agile bikes in the Harley-Davidson®family, with the most responsive handling.

2008 H-D Ultra Classic

The top of the luxury-touring segment has been ruled by an unlikely trinity comprised of Bavarian, Japanese and American manufacturers. While the Gold Wing , with its horizontally-opposed six, has long been the standard, BMW's sharp K1200LT, with its Inline Four, has also developed a devout following, especially in the European market. For the longest time this left one marque with the distinction of being the only American V-Twin alternative. Harley-Davidson long stood unopposed in the V-Twin luxo-touring niche with its Ultra Classic models. Then Victory shook things up last June with the release of its Vision Tour, also powered by a big bore American-made V-Twin. And so the competition for bagger buyers with the biggest bucks is now even more cutthroat.

But does Harley-Davidson really have anything to worry about? Though it's powered by a V-Twin, aesthetically the Ultra Classic Electra Glide and the Vision Tour will never be mistaken for twins. The Ultra Classic has earned its moniker by being just that - the epitome of classic-styling. It's like mama's cooking, warm and familiar and always the same. Harley buyers want their Bat-Wing fairing out front, they want that familiar shake at idle of the Twin Cam 96, and pay generously to hear the patented palpitations from dual crossover pipes. And there's the intangible allure of 'Harley Heritage' that goes along with ownership, a fierce loyalty that runs deep, a fan base that likes the security of sameness.

Don't think though that classic styling means antiquated engineering. On the contrary, the 2008 Ultra Classic has more technological goodies than any of its forebears. This includes Electronic Throttle Control, an Isolated Drive System, new Brembo brakes , ABS and sophisticated ESPFI. These aren't your carb-fed chuggers of old. With the 1584cc Twin Cam 96 providing its pulse, the '08 Ultra Classic is the best of both worlds, old school charm sprinkled with a generous portion of 21st Century technology. But it has lost its birthright as the only American V-Twin luxury-touring bike.

Victory Vision now owns a claim to that distinction as well. Victory entered the fray in 2008 with its 1731cc Freedom 106/6 V-Twin. Externally, the Vision shares more traits with its Japanese and European counterparts, with full-body sculpted fairing, less chrome and lots of buttons to push. Beneath the fairing, the Vision Tour is much different than the Ultra as well, with its engine serving as a stressed member of the frame, a frame that forgoes the typical cruiser arrangement for three large castings. It's got a long list of tech goodies aimed at the iPod generation - options like XM satellite, Victory Tourtech GPS, a 10-disc CD changer, and standard fare like communication systems and a plug-and-play port for the aforementioned Apple device. The gang from Minnesota strayed from any 'classic' conventions with its Vision, and has put all of its marbles in the modern-styled American V-Twin luxury-touring bag.


Since Victory introduced its Vision Tour in June last year, we couldn't wait to get our grubby mitts on one. But seeing as how the bike has already been featured in every motorcycle publication, we wanted to up the ante. Can you say "Comparo" time? So what better bike to do battle against than its foremost competitor, the 2008 Harley-Davidson Ultra Classic Electra Glide? In our clash of American V-Twin luxury-touring titans, we flogged the behemoths over the hills of Ortega Highway in So Cal, cruised the beaches of Malibu and took the road less traveled over the San Gabriel Mountains to determine which bike would earn the title of "Best American Luxo-Tourer." To borrow a line from Mills Lane, "Let's get it on!"

The battle began escaping L.A. on the 405. No lane-splitting here. A trip to the scales saw the 'svelte' Ultra Classic Electra Glide tip the scales tank empty at 815 lbs, while the portly Vision made the needle climb to 850 tank empty lbs. With the Vision's handlebar width in the area of 44 inches, this dynamic duo amply takes up a lane on its own. But sit back in the ultra-plush leather bound comfort of the Electra Glide Classic Comfort-Stitch Seat and worries are few. The Ultra Classic's seat is one of the most comfortable I've sat on. Victory put in a good effort itself, with 4-inches of rider comfort in a cleanly-constructed leather saddle. But the Vision's saddle rubs on the inner thighs if you're doing a lot of shifting, which was inevitable in the stop-and-go grind of the L.A. freeways. The Ultra Classic provided more cush for the tush, and since these bikes are built with membership in the Iron Butt Association in mind, our point for best posterior protection goes to the Harley.

Squeezing in the light action of the Ultra Classic's cable-actuated clutch, kick it down into gear, roll on the electronically-controlled throttle and feel it clunk into first. In fact, the first three gears of the 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission were pretty clunky. This was especially noticeable during slower takeoffs. It's not so bad if you can open it up quickly, but not so good running light to light.

Try to use the same amount of grip pressure on the Victory's clutch lever and you'll come up short. The hydraulic clutch has a heavy lever pull. Ease it out and it doesn't engage until the end of the lever throw, which sacrifices some in launching the bike. Kick it into the first of the six gears on the constant mesh overdrive transmission and you'll also be greeted with a clunk, but nothing to the degree of the Ultra Classic, and mainly in first gear.

One of the first things we noticed was that these two bikes do not build power in the same manner. On the Ultra Classic, you get a strong initial hit, with more than 70 lb-ft of torque coming on early at 2000 rpm. Keep it in the 2000-3500 rpm range, and you'll get the most out of the pushrod-activated valves. Venture much out of this range, and the engine has a very electric, characterless power delivery. The ECT also has a slight pause in roll-on acceleration, and try not to drop rpm too low in sixth gear. I let the bike drop down to 62 mph at 2200 rpm in sixth and waited with the throttle wide until it built back up to cruising speed.

And though the Victory's clutch engagement late in the throw cost it a little off the line, a short first gear makes up for it in the big bike's launch. The 106 cubic-inch Freedom engine is also pushing out almost 10 more ft-lb of torque than the Twin Cam 96. It's going to give you more power, longer. Sixth-gear on the Vision Tour is very tall and allows for low rpm at freeway cruising speed without as much sacrifice in power. The direct relationship between the Vision's throttle in setting the engine's single overhead camshafts into motion is more responsive than the Harley's ETC activating its pushrods. The one detractor from an otherwise stellar performance by the Vision's powertrain was when its tranny popped out of gear when accelerating hard in the upper rpm range, but this only happened on a couple of occasions and was definitely the exception instead of the norm.

2008 Victory Vision

Touring bikes are not my passion and highly futuristic designs not my cup of tea. So, when I had several pictures of the new Victory Vision stare at me, I became speechless (translate by what am I going to write about this one). Victory Motorcycles presents the new Vision model as the most progressive American luxury-touring bike ever built. This high tech V-Twin cruiser is the result of more than 6 years of research and development and the Vision models will be available in September. Insiders of the industry know that (thanks to the baby boomers) the “Bagger” segment is the fastest growing. The most valued too, in terms of dollars spent. In addition to its very 21st century look that I let you appreciate or hate, the Vision has an impressive list of features. 50-degree Freedom V-Twin (size undisclosed). Exhaust mufflers nestled in slots under the shell saddlebags. Electric windshield and adjustable side wind deflectors. 6-gallon gas tank (minimum 200 miles range) with incorporated stereo controls. Satellite radio. GPS. MP3 support. Heated grips and seat. 65.6 wheelbase. 26.5” seat height. 29-degree rake. 5.4” of trail Front suspension looks to be the same 43mm fork from the Vegas line.

And of course a price well above 20 K for the 2 versions (Vision Street & Vision Tour with Top Case. Production is supposed to start in June and it’s only at this date that all definitive specifications will be released. My head is spinning. Is the Vision the future of American touring? Maybe. You will tell me what you think. At least I am going to know how many bagger riders read this Blog. But first, go to the special website Polaris/Victory created for its new touring bikes. Victory Vision Experience. It is worth looking at the pictures.

Allianz Super Bike

All the participants represent the premium market segment: luxurious yachts, super bikes and expensive cars.

This is the fourth time that Allianz Super Car&Bike will be held in Moscow. According to its organizers, over the last few years the exhibition has become well-known for its presentation of the world's best super-premium and sports automobile, motorbike, and yacht producers in the boldest and most unusual way. Since its establishment, Allianz Super Car&Bike has discovered 25 new elite brands for Russia.

This year almost all the international automobile, motorbike and yacht leaders will participate in the show. These are both well-known and elite brands that only the most versed and well-off people may be familiar with. This year Mercury, Mercedes, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lexus, and Audi will be presenting their exclusive models. Caparo Ò1, Gilet Vertigo, Mosler, Gumbert and Koeningsegg will also bring their elite super cars that are known mainly to true automobile connoisseurs.

The event will be held on May 22 - June 1, 2008 and will be open both during the day for the exhibition itself and all through the night when guests will be invited to hot parties. These will all take place at the 'Pokrovsky Bereg' beach club, a huge area on the embankment of the Moscow River where a unique stage will be set up both on the beach and on the river for a yacht show specially for the launch of Allianz Super Car&Bike.

The Moscow Festival of Speed will also be held as part of the exhibition where various high-speed and even super-speed means of transport will be showcased.

Brembo S.p.A. is another participant worthy of special attention. It will remind drivers of the importance of effective acceleration and deceleration. The A1 Alarm Service tuning company will introduce its tuning center which performs cutting-edge technology of the world's tuning leaders Brabus, Techart, AC Schnitzer, Overfinch, and Startech. Various car tuning packages for Mercedes, Porsche, BMW, Range Rover, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep cars and so on will be introduced during the exhibition.

A premier show of a new topical blockbuster Speed Racer is also scheduled as part of the event and visitors to the Allianz Super Car&Bike exhibition will get a chance to watch it one day ahead of the rest of the country. The sponsor of the premier show is Yokohama, one of the world's top tire manufacturers.

Harley-Davidson

Most motorcycles are, by definition, luxury items. In the United States, a very small percentage of motorcycle riders use their bikes as daily transportation, instead choosing to take the “cage” for the various day-to-day trips that are a necessary part of life. This being the case, as fewer people have reserves of money left over to spend on discretionary items in a recession, sales of Harley-Davidson’s Big Twin models are suffering.

Enter the new Iron 883, which is based on the Sportster underpinnings and features a fuel-injected 883cc V-twin powerplant. Besides the smaller displacement engine, the rest of the bike mimics the bobbed look of its larger sibling, the Nightster 1200, right down to the blacked-out color palette, front fork gaiters, solo saddle and side-mounted license plate holder. This cost cutting has allowed Harley to place a $7,899 price tag on its Iron 883, neatly undercutting the Nightster by a full $2,000.

KTM LUXURY BIKES

KTM Sportmotorcycles has a deeply rooted motorsport tradition, building race-ready motorcycles for competitive and recreational riding. More than 130 world championship titles, victories at Dakar and countless national championships are proof of the company’s great technical expertise. Recently, the company has entered into the streetbike category with a variety of sporting and adventure-touring road-going machines.Austrian engineer Hans Trunkenpolz opens a metal-working shop in Mattighofen, Austria. The name of the business is Kraftfahrzeuge Trunkenpolz Mattighofen. The company’s first motorcycle is developed – the R100.
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
The 990 Super Duke R has to be the hottest bike available manufactured in series. In this case, the KTM engineers did their utmost to develop a “machine” that would exploit to the fullest every last inch of leeway in road traffic certification: Fully adjustable 48 WP forks, ultralight mono-seat tail section, chromium molybdenum tubular trellis frame weighing a mere 9 kg as well as an additional steering damper for extreme circuit times. Out of the rut and into the race.

2010 kawasaki bike

The new Kawasaki motocross bikes are here. As expected, the KX450F gets minor refinements as the R&D team recovers from the massive overhaul in 2009, but the KX250F isn’t the big news we were hoping for. It still received a list of changes, but, I’ll go ahead and spoil it right here, it still has a carburetor. Thanks to slower sales and an abundant inventory supply of KX65 and KX100 models, both 2-stroke machines are on a production hold for 2010. Kids who want fresh greenery will have to look for the KX85 which gets aesthetic upgrades. Read on for the specifics of each Kawasaki dirt bike model.

The 2010 Kawasaki KX450F is an updated version of the bike that won our 2009 450 Motocross Comparison.
2010 Kawasaki KX450F
Last year’s version blew the doors off with all-new fuel injection, but for 2010 the KX450F isn’t changed as radically. This burly beast is only refined for the new year with adjustments you can’t see from the outside. Inside the motor is a new bridged-box piston. It shaves seven grams and has a 6mm-shorter skirt. Kawi claims it increases performance at the top of the rev range. The intake cam timing is advanced two degrees and ECU settings are tweaked. Kawi says the piston design has been proven through use in the race team bikes along with a wedge-shaped crank which is already in use. By offsetting 60% of the crankshaft’s reciprocating weight, it acts as a counterbalance to smooth the engine delivery and vibrations.

The bike gets 40mm trimmed off the single-piece head/mid-pipe and the friction plates in the clutch get 75% more material. Denso radiators are 10mm taller and 7.6mm wider which brought about new shrouds. The bodywork mounts to a chassis that features a new steering stem shaft with the goal of decreasing rigidity. The Kayaba fork gets a different spring rate and revised damping to ease the initial stroke. The same goes for the rear end where the shock mounts to revised linkage ratios.

A revised ECU tunes the motor and FI.
2010 Kawasaki KX450F Specs:

Engine: Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke Single with DOHC and four valve cylinder head
Displacement: 449cc
Bore x stroke: 96.0 x 62.1mm
Compression ratio: 12.5:1
Fuel Injection: 43mm Keihin Throttle body
Ignition: Digital DC-CDI
Transmission: Five-speed
Rake / trail: 26.7 degrees / 4.6 in.
Front suspension / wheel travel: 48mm inverted, Kayaba AOS with DLC coated sliders, 22-position compression and 20-position rebound dampening adjustment / 12.4 in.

This is the disappointing news for 2010, but the KX250F is still going to be one fast motocross bike. We'll just have to see if any of the other OEMs put fuel-injection on their 250F machines.
2010 Kawasaki KX250F
We were hoping the trickle-down effect would happen fast enough for this year’s bike to trade its carburetor for digital fuel injection, but it wasn’t to be. Try not to be too disappointed, though. We had to remind ourselves that the ’09 was a damn fine machine, and a list of improvements aimed at bettering the handling characteristics is a good thing.

Kawi’s quarter-liter gets a bridged-box piston design like the KX450F as well as the wedge-shaped crank web and larger radiators. But, unlike its big brother, the exhaust pipe is longer out of the head and shorter in the middle for boosted low-end grunt. Crankcases are thicker and the tranny is beefed up as well with bigger dogs on third and fourth gears.

Suspension and chassis changes are just like the 450 except that the KX250F uses Showa components. The steering stem has less rigidity and the suspension tuning aims at leveling the bike’s stance so that there is less pressure on the front wheel. That doesn’t necessarily equate to quicker handling in the hypothetical world, but we’ll wait and see how this thing turns at the press launch.

Sure seems like there’s a lot in common with the 450F, and the price hike is no different. If this is the bike for you, the 2010 model rings in at $6999 - an extra 500 bucks over the ’09. Keep your fingers crossed for some First Rides on the KX450F and KX250F in August and September.

Special Report- Honda and Bajaj

Eying a big potential for luxury bikes in India, where tastes are changing from mass-market machines to high-end bikes, Honda and Bajaj are looking at launching new sportsbikes in the country in the next couple of months.

There had been a sudden surge in the number of International Sportsbikes brands entering the Indian market, over the past two years. Initially the trend was set by Kinetic with the launch of the 250cc, v-twin-powered Hyosung Comet in India back in 2005. Then it was Yamaha, which launched the Yamaha R1 in India and the MT-01 cruiser in 2007. Soon later followed by the Italian motorcycle giant Ducati, who launched an array of superbikes costing up to almost 50 lakhs, and finally Suzuki joined the superbike bandwagon in late-2008, with its Hayabusa superbike and the Intruder cruiser
Keeping with that trend, Honda and Bajaj don’t want to be left behind. Honda now intends to provide some competition to the Yamaha R1and the Suzuki Hayabusa by launching the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade in India, in the first quarter of this year, and following will be a naked version of the bike (pictured below).

Honda also plans to launch the Honda CB1000R in India alongside it. Both bikes are expected to be priced at around Rs 9.5-10.5 lakhs, making them slightly cheaper alternatives to the R1 and the Hayabusa

YAMAHA LAUNCHES

Yamaha Motor India Pvt. Ltd. (YMI) has rolled out two of its flagship models, the Super Sports YZF - R1 and the Torque Sports MT01 priced at Rs. 10.5 lakh each (ex-showroom) in the Indian market. With the ride of these two legendary machines into the country, the Japanese bike major is all set to provide Indian riders a chance to experience true ‘Art of Engineering’, which lies at the heart of Yamaha’s creations. Yamaha’s latest offerings combine technological superiority with artistic brilliance, to bring to life motorcycles that not only excite but astound.

YMI is the first two wheeler company to introduce this genre of super sports and torque sports performance bike in India. YZF - R1 and MT01 have gained immense popularity globally and have been instrumental in successfully demonstrating the technology superiority of Yamaha worldwide. The introduction of these machines, illustrates company’s aim of enriching Indian bikers riding experience and elevating the current biking paradigm.

“The rising number of big bikes enthusiasts coupled with increasing income levels makes India one of the most important markets for Yamaha”, says Tomotaka Ishikawa, CEO & MD, Yamaha Motor India. He adds, “With YZF - R1 and MT01, we aim to enrich Indian biker’s riding experience by adding a lifestyle quotient that would establish Yamaha’s credential as a technology superior and cool brand. The company is committed to provide international quality and lifestyle attributes of Yamaha brand to Indian consumers.

Signifying the launch of YZF - R1 and MT01 models as the first step towards the establishment of Global Yamaha image in India, Mr. Ishikawa further added that “the company is all geared to the challenge, to rebuild Yamaha brand in India and with the launch of YZF - R1 and MT01, Yamaha unleashes its strategic intent to offer superior product in India in times to comes, which would appeal to the Indian motorcycling trends.

The company is looking at refining the motorcycling culture in India by bringing in technologically advanced and visually appealing machines. Yamaha believes that building motorcycles is both a technological and an artistic endeavor. It pursues a level of performance that transcends mere specifications. The goal is to produce technologically superior motorcycles that should have a deep and intangible emotional appeal. Creating such machines is the essence of Yamaha-ism. It is what defines the company and this is what we call the “Art of Engineering"

Suzuki GSX-R

Yamaha has unveiled the 2008 Yamaha R1 - and although the motorcycle has not been radically changed, it does come in a choice of three new colour schemes.

Yamaha has given the new 2008 Yamaha YZF-R6 a complete workover and despite the motorcycle looking pretty similar to the current Yamaha R6, it gets a new frame and swingarm, reworked 599cc engine, new slipper clutch, improved front brakes and more aerodynamic bodywork.

This is the all-new 2008 Yamaha YZF-R125 motorcycle which will go head to head with the top-selling Honda CBR125R. The Yamaha YZF-R125 uses an all-new liquid-cooled 124cc, four-valve, short-stroke single cylinder engine, which is claimed to be the most powerful 125cc four-stroke motorcycle available. It has a six-speed gearbox and fuel injection, and a Yamaha YZF-R6 style stubby exhaust with twin catalysts is fitted.

Yamaha’s iconic660 Tenere Paris-Daker replica motorcycle is making a return for 2008 with an all-new design.

The Yamaha 500cc-liquid cooled parallel twin scooter gets a new frame, a larger fuel tank, four-piston monoblock brake calipers from the Yamaha FZ6 motorcycle (fitted with ABS as standard), and a larger underseat storage area. The bodywork has also been restyled for a sharper look close to the 2008 Yamaha YZF-R6 motorcycle.

Twin Touring Bikes

Anyone who regularly reads motorcycle magazines has already seen numerous sketches of these not very secret motorcycles from Victory. Now, in conjunction with the New York International Motorcycle Show, Victory has formally unveiled the Victory Vision Tour and the Victory Vision Street, two brand new luxury touring bikes with a completely new style. They will be available from dealers this fall.

When you visit the Victory website you're greeted with this not too subtle comment, "We're not rewriting American history, we're writing its future." Hmm ... I wonder what other American manufacturer they're hinting at? Victory has definitely staked out new territory in the V-Twin touring market with this aerodynamic design which they say offers superb weather protection and from the appearance of the bike I would have no reason to doubt it. Features include six speeds, six gallon forward positioned gas tank, optional electrically adjustable windshield, adjustable rear suspension and all put together in what is a distinctly American style. This is no Gold Wing or BMW.

The Victory Vision comes in two flavors, Tour, with 6750 cubic inches of storage space and Street with 3370 cubic inches of capacity. Seat height is a low 26.5 inches and the seating position is relaxed with a lot of room to move around thanks to integrated floorboards.

Interesting is the lack of specifics on engine displacement, with some time left before it shows up on the showroom floor, it may be a decision that is not yet final.

Overall, this looks like a very clean and new design. It remains to be seen which potential customers will be won over to the Victory Vision, ... Harley or Honda? Or both?

Polaris press release follows:

In a highly anticipated world unveiling, Victory Motorcycles, a division of Polaris Industries Inc. (NYSE:PII), today launched its new Victory Vision™ family of luxury touring motorcycles at the International Motorcycle Show in New York City. The new bikes, the Victory Vision Street™ and Victory Vision Tour,™ boast Victory’s own thunderous V-Twin engine, unmatched comfort and breakthrough styling - redefining what it means to be an American touring bike.

“We spent nearly six years researching and developing this bike, and more than 28,000 miles riding with customers and are confident that the Victory Vision will fulfill the dreams of people looking to tour on an American Luxury touring bike,” said Mark Blackwell, vice president of Victory Motorcycles and International Operations. “The Victory Vision is perhaps the most pure example of what riders have been asking for: a modern, American V-Twin touring bike.”

A powerful combination of style and comfort, the Victory Vision bikes have four inches of cushion in their seats, a relaxed, feet-forward riding position, the best aerodynamic wind protection and airflow management for all weather riding, ample storage space with modern American styling. The new bikes will be available to riders across the country beginning in fall 2007.

“This is a proud day for Polaris and Victory Motorcycles as we launch a family of motorcycles that 30 years from now people will look back and say, ‘Those bikes fundamentally changed the design of American motorcycles,” said Tom Tiller, CEO, Polaris Industries. “We launched Victory Motorcycles in 1998 with the belief that an American company could design and build the best motorcycles in the world – while not the biggest, we are confident based on feedback from our buyers Victory is the best.”

Victory Vision

Victory says that it's okay if at first you look at this bike and ask yourself: "What the heck is that?" The Minnesota-based company describes its new Vision as "the most progressive American luxury-touring bikes ever built," and it's difficult to argue that point.

This is certainly no Electra Glide. In fact, the Victory Vision surely ranks up there with the unforgettable Honda Rune as the most forward-looking cruisers ever to have entered mass production. Victory reps boast that the Vision will be considered a landmark in the evolution of the motorcycle.

Victory Motorcycles is treading bold new ground in the luxury-touring market with this dramatically styled V-Twin cruiser. It's the culmination of more than six years of research and development after the initial market exploration in 2000. Twenty design sketches and hundreds of thousands of development miles later, the production Vision will arrive at dealers in autumn of 2007.

The Vision makes good business sense in a few key aspects. First is the bourgeoning popularity of the "bagger" segment. It's not only the fastest growing market among cruisers, it also represents the greatest value in terms of dollars spent.

The other significant market condition in favor of the Vision is the relative dearth of competition in the luxury-touring class. Beyond the aforementioned Electra Glide, the iconic Gold Wing and a few BMWs is an opportunity for a cushy touring mount brimming with comfort and convenience technology. And no one ever said a cruiser-based entry to the class had to look like a 40-year-old Harley.


Central to the design theme is the sculpting along the engine's forward cylinder that mimics the curves of Victory's distinctive scalloped fuel tank created by Victory's inspired designer Michael Song. In profile, the 50-degree Freedom V-Twin sits cozily inside the bodywork, like "a jewel in the setting." Similarly, the twin exhaust mufflers are nestled tidily in scooped slots under the locking, hard-shell saddlebags. The bike's nose has a bit of BMW R1200RT in it, while the shapely curves of the taillight area are like nothing else we've ever seen.

The Vision is actually two motorcycles based on the same platform. The full-boat version is called the Vision Tour, and its distinguishing feature is the generously sized topcase that is missing from its little brother, the Vision Street. The Tour version's 6,750 cubic inches of storage doubles that of the Street's. Both have roomy floorboards and low-maintenance belt drives.

Wind protection and airflow management, augmented by adjustable side wind deflectors, are claimed to be outstanding. A convenient electrically adjustable windscreen is optional. A 6.0-gallon fuel tank guarantees a 200-mile minimum range and also provides a location for the main stereo controls.

The Ultimate Triton

I am one of the most bike enthusiasts for whom the difference between fast and slow, comfort and pain, safe and unsafe matters a lot. This is where the CP Project One comes in to fit the best part of the best bike builders as well as of enthusiasts. It would not be an overstatement to call their recent work: Triton which is a dream bike for all enthusiasts.
This gorgeous Triton was built by the extraordinarily talented Daniel Delfour, one of France’s leading motorcycle builders and is the brainchild of Vincent Prat from Southsiders MC and French designers Frank Charriaut. Actually, there is a story behind ‘CP Project #1′. It was totally inspired by a trip to the 2008 Legend Of The Motorcycle event held in California; Delfour’s exquisite Norton Ala’verda caused a stir there, so the three friends made plans for a sequel.
The design was to create a low-slung and very slim motorcycle, all in black. A leading French fashion house was on board by this point, and the tightly imposed specifications proved to be a challenge. Frank, Delfour carved multi-part moulds for the bodywork in plywood, balancing the shapes and volumes of the tank and seat until the styling came together as a whole. Its featherbed frame is spacious whereas a Triumph 750 Bonneville engine is compact.
Its engine was rebuilt to original specifications by using a TR7 single-carburetor head instead of using the fussier stock twin-carb item. From French master builder Momo (who not only painted the bodywork in a black flake and the frame in gloss black), the visual finishing touches came, but created the exhaust system and heat guards also.
The finished motorcycle was then handed over to Benoit Gerry from Studio Ze for the first image captures. I hope you would like Triton.

The world’s most expensive chopper of price $22.7 million would definitely annoy any chopper lover. For the delight of any adventure lover, its price tag includes a 45-meter luxury transoceanic yacht also. The House of Thunder, Lubek, Germany custom bike builders have taken the term ‘boys toys’ to a new level. They claim to have built the world’s most expensive chopper at the price of £14.2 million. The House of Thunder collaborated with Turkey-based Yacht manufacturer Sunrise Yachts.
This incredible 45 metre yatch with a rear garage that houses two jet skis, a rescue-boat and a custom Harley-Davidson, built and painted to match the boat’s livery. This bike is based on a stock Harley Rocker with hand-fashioned fenders, a cleaned-up frame and fuel tank. It also includes the features of a foldable handlebar allowing the bike to be lifted out and in of ‘parking position’ in the small garage in the rear of the boat.
Eric Vauth of House of Thunder had said that they will still build their normal custom bikes for their customers but this is a completely new market and they always welcome new impulses for markets.
So, the World’s most expensive chopper comes with a free yacht. What do you say?

KTM RC8

The 2008 KTM RC8 [1280 X 1024 Size Wallpaper]


The KTM 1190 RC8 is the first 1000 cc Super Bike from KTM. The international launch of the RC8 is expected to happen around March.


The RC8 has a 1148cc, 8-valve, DOHC, 75-degree V-twin engine, which makes an impressive 155 horsepower and 120Nm of torque. The bike has a dry weight of 188 Kgs, sports a six-speed gearbox and Keihin's Electronic Fuel Injection.

Watch the Promotional Video of the RC8 (which gave me goose bumps) on You Tube..

The RC8 is priced at 10,695.00 GBP (Great Britain Pounds) in the U.K, which is equal to around Rs. 8,20,000. Visit the Official KTM RC8 website for more details on the RC8.

According to KTM, the Duke 690 is the most powerful street-legal "Single" cylinder bike of all time.

The Duke 690 has a single-cylinder, 654cc, liquid-cooled engine that makes 65bhp at 7500rpm. Compared to multi cylinder super sport bikes, 65 horsepower certainly doesn't sound like much. But the 690 Duke weighs just 148 kilos (as heavy as a Pulsar 220/ Karizma..!!).

The KTM 690 Duke gets a steel tube trellis frame, six-speed gearbox, and 17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels. Top speed is around the region of 190km/h.

The Duke 690 is priced at 6,195.00 GBP (Great Britain Pounds) in the U.K, which is equivalent to Rs. 475,000. Visit the Official KTM Duke 690 site for more details

The Duke 690 was also displayed at the Auto Expo 2008. The Bajaj guys present there told that the Duke 690 and the RC8 (which wasn't kept there for display) would be the bikes from KTM that should make it to the Bajaj Probiking Showrooms soon..

Question remains what will be the Indian Sticker Price.

But for those kind of guys who want "Exclusivity" and have deep pockets, these radically styled KTM bikes should just fit the bill perfectly for them..!!

Passionate Bike

Bajaj Pulsar


Bajaj Motor Bikes An extremely popular bike on the Indian roads,the Bajaj Pulsar currently offers four varieties the Bajaj Pulsar 150 cc,the Bajaj Pulsar 180 cc,the Bajaj Pulsar 200 cc,and the Bajaj Pulsar 220cc. Bajaj Pulsar bikes range in on road prices from around Rs. 62,500 to Rs. 90,500.


Pulsar 180 Cc DTS-I

Bajaj Pulsar 180 cc DTS-I is a cool, mean machine using Digital Twin Technology Ignition (DTSI-i), Twin Spark Plugs, Ignition with Digital CDI and a third generation Throttle Responsive Ignition Control System. This bike is now available at a showroom price of around Rs. 59,300 with an on road price of around Rs. 67,000 at Ahmedabad including supplementary statutory charges. Currently, Delhi has the lowest, and Bangalore the highest on-road prices for Bajaj Pulsar 150 cc. Bajaj Pulsar 180 cc bike prices vary upon the two-wheeler dealer's location.

Pulsar 200cc DTS-I

Bajaj Pulsar 200cc DTS-i has a dash of style, speed and technology. Having an international sports bike look, Bajaj Pulsar DTS-I has a split seat and several parameter indicators (oil/fuel/temperature etc), Nitro shockers, a third generation Throttle Responsive Ignition Control System and chiseled rear looks. The Pulsar 200cc DTS-i is mean machine to ideally take on a long winding road. New bikes in this series have a showroom price ranging from around Rs. 68,000 to Rs. 74,500, which inclusive of all charges like insurance, octroi, RTO, etc. Currently, Delhi has the lowest, and Bangalore the highest on-road prices for Bajaj Pulsar 150 cc. Bajaj Pulsar 180 cc bike prices vary upon the two-wheeler dealer's location.
Bajaj Pulsar 220

Styling:

On the first look of the bike, it looked like a cheetah ready to pounce on me. The head lamp is designed in such a way that it adds a life to the bike. It is nothing short of a face of a robot. Look at the tell tale lights, doesn’t it look like eyes? This is the second bike in India after Karizma which has isolated handle bars (like the real sports bikes). Such bikes position itself as a unique category, a higher status of machines.



The tanks are adopted from the original Pulsar and has a scratch pad near the seat. The tail part is nothing new. It just looks like the other Pulsars and it disappoints me a little bit. Someone looking just the tail wouldn’t be able to differentiate whether it is a Pulsar 220, 200, 180 or 150.



Performance And Handling:

The bike has great agility. It has a tendency to ‘jump off’ when you twist the throttle which gives a great adrenaline pump. If you really want to whip the engine to its limits, the Indian city roads will disappoint you.

I own a Karizma, and when I drive the Pulsar 220, I feel as if the bike is light as a feather. There are both pros and cons to this. On my Karizma, I feel more safe and stuck to the road with the heavy solid feeling, but Pulsar 220 seems to be ‘flying’ which is good, but does not give me a safe feeling. The details may be different, but this is what I feel, and you would perhaps feel the same if you test the two bikes. The maximum power is 3 PS more than Karizma, but the top speed is nearly the same – 126 kmph.

Features:

No doubt that the Pulsar places itself on par with other high end bikes. The features in the dashboard are nothing short of spectacular. With orange backlit digital console, it displays the speed, fuel level and ODO meter is incorporated below the speedometer. Like the bikes from Honda, Pulsar 220 has single indicator for the signal. The tachometer dial and the digital console perfectly blends with each other

Verdict:

In the test rides, the Pulsar 220 is a little faster than the Karizma, but we have to wait for Karizma Fi, a new version of Karizma that is to be launched soon. Bajaj Pulsar 220 is a great bike overall compared to the other bikes in India, but taking into account the international bikes, its stands no chance against them. Hopefully we can see lot of new technology coming up in Indian bikes in the coming years. If you want a high performance bike, wait a little longer for the new Karizma and then make the decision.

Pros: Pickup, aggressive looks, Pulsar branding

Cons: Not so pleasant engine sound

Bajaj Pulsar 220 Specifications:

Engine: 220 cc single, 2 valve, 4 Stroke, EFI, air cooled with oil cooler
Compression ratio: 12.8:1
Top speed: 135 km/h (84 mph) (estimated)
Power: 20 PS (20 hp/15 kW)
Torque: 19.13 N·m (14 ft·lbf)
Transmission: 5 speed manual sequential
Suspension: Front: 37 mm telescopic hydraulic type 130 mm (5.1 in) travel
Rear: Ellipitical section swingarm with twin hydraulic gas-charged shock absorbers; 101 mm (4 in) travel
Brakes: Front: 260mm disc
Rear: 230 mm disc
Tires: Front: 90/90-17 tubeless
Rear: 120/80-17 tubeless
Dimension: L 2,035 millimetres (80.1 in) W 750 millimetres (30 in) H 1,140 millimetres (45 in)
Weight: Approx. 150 kilograms (330 lb)



YAMAHA YZF R15 150cc

Reviewing Yamaha YZF R15 150cc is something which I have been waiting for. Today I had a test drive of this (great?) bike and I can’t wait to share it with you. Yamaha YZF R15 costs Rs.1,08,000 on-road and is a 150cc sports bike that has been launched in India.

I went to the showroom today morning, as I was parking my Karizma in the parking lot, I couldn’t help but stare on the glaring bike that was visible through the glass in the showroom. I had a good study on it and here’s what I have to share with you…

This bike is perhaps one of the best looking bikes in India. The design has been cloned from its dad, the Yamaha YZF R1. Except for a few minor changes including single silencer which does not fit under the seat as R1, it is almost R1 when looked from a distance. The dual head lamps, the rear view mirrors, shape of the tank, seating position all add up to a ‘WOW’ effect. This bike is definitely a head turner where ever you go.



To add to its looks, Yamaha did not include the center stand. This is perhaps the only bike in India which does not have a center stand. And another thing to notice is that the bike has no safety guard!

The handle bars are curved as it is in high-end sports bikes and adds to the grandeur of the sitting posture. Well, the rear part looks a bit disappointing because compared the front the rear looks too small and does not fit in with the whole bike’s look. I wished that Yamaha could provide some big manly tires, but I will justify this point in the performance review part below.

APRILIA RS 125

Here are the details of the 2010 Yamaha V-Max VMX17


Unlike any other motorcycle available today, the 2010 Yamaha VMAX is truly in a class of its own. The awesome acceleration and muscular beauty combines with sporty handling and Yamaha's latest electronic engine management technologies to offer an incredibly exhilarating riding experience.

The 2010 Yamaha VMAX has always been the untimate muscle bike, and the 2010 VMAX is the awesome result of its evolutionary journey. The unique features of this iconic beast are richly blended with advanced sportbike technology and forward-thinking style. It all ads up to a machine with immense performance and visual power.

There's only one VMAX.

ALSO SEE

1. PLAYBOY CBR1000RR REPLICA

2. 2010 SUZUKI GSR250

As per Autobloggreen.com Yamaha has filed patents for a new series of motorcycle-size turbodiesel engines in both inline-four and twin-cylinder configurations. Previously, established brands have not even so much as expressed an interest in diesel engines.

Yamaha would have to contend with packaging issues in placing a diesel engine in a motorcycle chassis as well as the physical size of an engine that’s made to withstand the high pressures and torque inherent in a compression ignition engine. Yamaha’s patents seek to set an arrangement of components particularly the intercooler, which is placed atop the engine under a “dummy tank” with the actual fuel tank moved below the bike’s saddle. So, are we ready to cruise on open American roads in the coming few years astride a turbo-diesel Yamaha big bore bike? Feel free to share!

Was just surfing through my list of favourite motorcyling website, when i read this interesting news on Faster and Faster
According to the above mentioned website, Yamaha France (see) is offering four (yes, just FOUR) MotoGP replicas of the YZF-R1. These will be sold in Rossi and Lorenzo colors and the sticker price is, well, USD 26,600!! The price is quite steep but you do get a Rossi / Lorenzo replica helmet free as well. Worth it? Well, I would say rather go in for a Busa and a GSX-R750!

Yamaha has just confirmed that the popular Fazer 250, that is being in many countries abroad will also be launched in the UK market as the YBR 250. Yamaha already sells the smaller YBR 125 and the this bigger 250 will prove to be a success as well.
The YBR 250 will make around 21bhp with 20.5Nm of torque : enough for city commutes and the occasional highway run. The bike has an estimated top speed of around 85mph / 136km/h.


Engine: 125cc
Power: 15bhp (restricted
Power: 30bhp (de-restricted)
Top speed: around 75mph for 15bhp
Top speed: around 95mph for 33bhp
Cost: £3799 (UK)

So, we thought 125cc bikes were boring? Get hold of the Aprilia 125 and de-restrict it, freeing all the 33 horses, and 125cc biking will never be the same again.


The Aprilia RS125 has remained the best fun 125cc bike for ages now. It was first launched way back in '95 and still remains an average teenagers' dream bike. Looks like a biggie, handles like a track bike and the engine can be de-restricted to 30bhp which means it can tease cars on the road as well! It’s a tad expensive to buy and run thanks to pricey two-stroke motorcycle oil, but, if you can afford it, the Aprilia RS125 is worth every penny.

Suzuki Launches

The roads will wonder who passed by. Get ready to renew your faith in the physics of design. The two most renowned, four stroke, liquid cooled massive demons of power, steel and style are ready to burn the Indian roads with digital fuel injection and the most enviable wave of tractable power and responsive torque.

Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of one of the world’s leading two-wheeler manufacturers Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan, bowled the Indian bike freaks with the launch of its most awaited bikes, Hayabusa and INTRUDER M1800R.

Celebrated as the pioneers and leaders in the field of land crusader manufacturing, Suzuki has again proved its metal in the Indian market one more time with this launch. The entire focus of the launch was to deliver dazzling technology and performance to exhibit that they have now raised the bar in the motorcycle industry with superior technology and innovation.

These bikes have been reigning the international market for long were desperately seek in India. Both Hayabusa and INTRUDER are seen as ultimate machines and are known for their powerful engines and style. Launch of both the bikes in each other’s company unanimously was thrilling and electrifying.

Launching the charismatic bikes Mr. Atul Gupta, Vice President (Sales and Marketing) said, “Suzuki has been delivering superior technology which has been proven worldwide. We now intend to showcase the same in India. With the launch of the two bikes, Suzuki is all set to support the craziest and sportiest young enthusiasts who are looking for these mean machines.”

Speaking on the launch Mr. Katsumi Takata, Joint Managing Director, Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt. Ltd. said, “This launch is in line with our aim to deliver outstanding technology and performance to the Indian market. We are pleased to offer exciting riding experience to pro-bikers.”

The launch of these bikes has proven to be worth a wait in the Indian market, as the bikes epitomize power, style and technology as one and that’s Suzuki. The launch drew the maximum attention of the people in hoards. Quite predictable, as none would have missed the chance to see the legends coming face to face.

The bikes have been launched in 7 cities – Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Pune, Mumbai and Ahmedabad.

Suzuki Hayabusa

Suzuki introduced the sportbike Suzuki GSX1300R, popularly known as the Hayabusa, in 1999. Since its inception the Suzuki Hayabusa was widely regarded as the fastest production motorcycle in the world until major Japanese motorcycle manufacturers voluntarily imposed speed regulators in their bikes.

The Hayabusa derives its name from the Japanese term for the Peregrine Falcon, the fastest creature on the planet with speeds in excess of 300 km/h in its hunting dive. The Hayabusa's 4-stroke, four-cylinder liquid-cooled 1299cc engine enables it to generate an enormous peak power of 175 bhp at 9800 rpm and reach from 0-100 km/h in three seconds flat.

The Hayabusa's roaring success prompted other motorcycle manufacturers to come up with similar speed merchants like the BMW K1200S and the Kawasaki ZX-14

Suzuki Hayabusa Technical Specifications
Specs Engine 1299cc, 4-stroke, four-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 16-valve, TSCC
Bore x Stroke 81.0 x 63.0mm
Compression Ratio 11.0:1
Fuel System Keihin/Denso Fuel Injection
Lubrication Wet sump
Ignition Digital/Transistorized
Transmission 6-speed, constant mesh
Final Drive #530 chain
Overall Length 2140mm (84.3 in.)
Overall Width 740mm (29.1 in.)
Overall Height 1155mm (45.5 in.)
Seat Height 805mm (31.7 in.)
Ground Clearance 120mm (4.7 in.)
Wheelbase 1485mm (58.5 in.)
Dry Weight 217kg (478 lbs.) 218kg (480 lbs.) CA. model
Suspension Front Inverted telescopic, coil spring, fully adjustable spring preload, 14-way adjustable rebound damping and 13-way adjustable compression damping
Suspension Rear Link-type, gas/oil damped, fully adjustable spring preload, 22-way adjustable compression & rebound damping
Brakes Front Dual hydraulic disc
Brakes Rear Single hydraulic disc
Tires Front 120/70-ZR-17
Tires Rear 190/50-ZR-17
Fuel Tank Capacity 21 L (5.5 gal.) 19.0 L (5.0 gal.) CA. model
Color Black, Red, Blue

The Yamaha YZF-R1 bike, launched in 1998, revolutionized the sportbike landscape by successfully combining the awesome power available previously in the true liter class (1,000cc) with the lightweight and responsiveness that a 600-class chassis affords.

Over the years, despite maintaining its distinctive sharp look, the R1 has undergone technical upgradations to keep pace with the times. The 2006 edition features a short-stroke 998cc DOHC, 20-valve, liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder engine that produces a peak power of 175 bhp.

The dual-valve fuel injection system uses motor-driven secondary throttle valves and 32-bit ECU for responsive, instantaneous power delivery. The refurbished Deltabox V frame, revised forks and a 20mm longer swingarm facilitate superb handling in the R1.

In 2006, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Yamaha racing in America, Yamaha released a Limited Edition yellow/white/black YZF-R1 in original Yamaha

Bajaj to launch

Bajaj Auto Limited (BAL), one of the leading motorcycle manufacturer of India is currently working on high capacity bikes to be launched under Bajaj Brand. It currently markets bikes up to 220cc and is developing a 250cc and a 300cc bike to tap the high-end domestic bike market.

The new upgrade of Pulsar is also being developed by the company. According to a company official, BAL has already approached an Europe-based motorcycle design consultancy to work out new designs for the bikes and is also taking help from its Austrian bike company, KTM, in which BAL has a stake.

BAL GM (marketing) Amit Nandi said: “The new launches are part of the long-term plan to develop bigger bikes under the Bajaj banner. We are working on that. We have the capability and technology to develop products on our own, which will be leveraged to develop products across different segments.”

Unlike Hero Honda, which is dependent on its Japanese partner Honda Motor Co for technology, Bajaj Auto has developed its own technology over the years. So the company is working on new bikes based on its patented DTSi technology and also its indigenously developed fuel injection (FI) technology.

“Development of new models does not cost much in our business. It’s not a billion-dollar investment,’’ said BAL CEO (two-wheelers) S Sridhar. He said the company has the technology to develop products for a niche market. Since it does R&D on its own, it can cut development and manufacturing expenses.

Besides the new-generation motorcycles, the company is also developing new low-cost two-wheelers, which will be launched under a new brand. The segment and the characteristic of such bikes are yet to be worked out. The company said that “it will not be in the entry-level 100cc segment”. The company will also launch a new gearless scooter in the 100-150cc engine capacity next year.

Yamaha India

Globally, Yamaha Motorcycles has a performance oriented brand image and is known for their technological excellence. But thats not the case for Yamaha India with their damp and not so exciting current line-up of bikes. Realizing the power and growth potential of the Indian 2-wheeler market, Yamaha is bent on re-establishing themselves in India, only this time aiming for the brand image rather than going after mass market sales. As part of their strategy YMI recently launched the world class YZF R1 and MT01, furthermore Yamaha will be launching 3 new bikes in India in 2008.

Sports oriented, Yamaha YZF R15 is a track ready, made for India bike inheriting from the Yamaha R1. The new single cylinder, 4-stroke, 150cc engine has 4-valves, is liquid cooled and will have Fuel Injection. The bike also has front and rear disc brakes. R15 will be launched in India some time in June-July of 2008. Though price and performance specs are not available at this time, current speculation is it’ll be priced around Rs 90,000 and the power output will be around 18 bhp.

IMO The best looking among the 3, the Yamaha is a mean-looking naked street bike, again made for India inheriting from the European FZ1. FZ will share R15’s 150cc single cylinder engine but will be air-cooled, no further specs available right now. Yamaha FZ 150 will to be launched in India by November 2008.

Current Yamaha Gladiator will be available in two new variants – Type SS (Stylish & Sporty) & Type RS (Racing Sports) and these bikes will have the 125 cc engine block. Yamaha says SS & RS have 26 improved features to make them dynamic and best performing bikes in their class. Gladiator Type SS / RS are to be commercially launched in India by the end of February 2008.

Super spots Yamaha

Yamaha motorcycles India is officially the first to bring in their super bikes to India – the YZF R1 and the MT 01 have been launched with an ex-showroom price tag of 10.5 lakhs and bookings are open at their authorized dealerships in four cities.

I have come across many people looking for the changes specific to the 2008 model. The Yamaha YZF-R1 for 2008 and 2007 are the same – the only difference being, ‘08 R1 has new graphics. Check out the image below the post comparing the two models.

more images & details after the jump.

Currently in its sixth avatar, the 2007 Yamaha R1 has undergone some considerable changes. According to many bike reviews around the world the the race ready ‘07 R1 is very close to its grand prix equivalent – the YZF-M1. R1’s short stroke 998cc 16-valve engine produces 180 horsepower at 12,500 rpm and 112.7 Nm torque at 10,000 rpm. Thats without induction and with induction these figures go up to 189 bhp and 118.3 Nm. With its redline starting at 13,750 rpm it can be revved all the way upto 14,500 rpm.

YMI claims R1’s top speed is 285 km/h (177 mph) but others say it can do 300 kmh (186 mph). Although Yamaha doesn’t give us the other performance figures like the 0-60 sprint and quarter mile drag times, bikers world over have posted different times on these and we can suffice it to say that 0-60 mph (0-100 kmph) takes a little under 3 seconds. A standing quarter mile takes about 10 secs at 146 mph (235 km/h).

‘07 R1 has many new cutting edge features like YCC-I (Yamaha Chip Controlled Intake), YCC-T (Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle) and Slipper Clutch that were previously used only in professional racing. Here’s a brief idea of what each of the upgrades in the specifications does to make it a true sports bike.

YCC-I (electronically controlled variable length intake system): On an engine with short length intake funnels, power output is stronger at high revs, while low-end and mid-range power is better when it has longer intake funnels. With YCC-I, the on board computer monitors the engine speed and keeps the 140mm long funnel setup until it reaches 10,400 rpm. Past 10,400 rpm it switches to short funnel setup by cutting down the funnel length to 65mm. The result is best of both worlds – a higher power output all across rev range.
YCC-T (fly-by-wire throttle control): Continuously monitoring various engine and throttle parameters, the on board computer releases a precise amount of fuel and air required by the engine and does that fast. The result is a more responsive throttle which aids in faster corner exits.
Slipper Clutch: On a bike with normal clutch, when you enter a corner too fast and downshift or decelerate the engine revs too high and engine braking is hard which might lead to loss of traction or cause the bike to hop. In this situation, a slipper clutch senses this and avoids it by partially disengaging. This results in better corner entry speeds and a more controlled ride.
Engine: The biggest change is the new engine now has a more flexible 4-valves per cylinder setup. Many of its internals have been redesigned and the compression ratio is higher.
Chassis: Re-engineered chassis with new frame and swing arm is more rigid and makes the R1 feel more compact. Feeling like the R6, the bike is more agile can handle better.
Brakes: Front 310mm discs have 6 pot calipers (versus 4 pistons on 2006 R1) for better braking.
Its the result of all these things working together thats getting all the riders excited and justifies the raving reviews R1’s been getting all over the world.

With an ex-showroom price of 10.5 lakhs R1’s on road price in Bangalore works up to Rs 12 lakhs. Check out this Indian Yamaha R1 thread on xbhp for a complete walk through of the buying process in India. Bookings are currently open at the following 5 Dealerships in India

Ahmedabad – Planet Automobiles
Bangalore – Bangalore Wheels & Orion Motors
Chennai – Ambal Motors
Delhi – Delhi Scooters

Ducati 1098 R

DUCATI 1098 R
The lightest, most powerful twin-cylinder bike ever and true competition-level traction control system supplied as standard for maximum track performance.
The 1098 R is the ultimate Superbike. The most advanced, most powerful twin-cylinder motorcycle ever built, with the highest torque-to-weight ratio in the sport bike category. It is the product of a team of designers and engineers focussed on one objective only – to win.
The ‘R’ is a race bike, pure and simple. Its competition specification and superior components together with advanced electronics and race-proven chassis technology deliver a level of performance that empowers you with confidence and capability.
World Superbike rule changes mean that the road-going ‘R’ version is closer than ever to the factory race bike. The 1098 R is not a replica – it’s the real deal. An incredible 180 hp L-Twin Testastretta Evoluzione engine in a race-winning Trellis chassis set-up tips the scales at an unbelievably lightweight 165 kg (364 lbs) and comes with a race kit that introduces Ducati Corse’s world championship winning traction control system.
Once again, Ducati raises the bar and sets the world standard for sport bikes while turning the heads and racing the hearts of enthusiasts throughout the world.
1098 Technology: Trademark Ducati features like the high tail section, compact front end, twin under-seat silencers and single-sided swingarm are just some of the features that turned the 1098 models into an instant award-winning success. When launched in November 2006, the 1098 and 1098 S introduced a number of ‘firsts’ for Ducati and production sport bike design. It was the first production motorcycle to have the amazing stopping power of Brembo Monobloc brakes, the first to have a data acquisition system integrated as standard equipment and the first to use an ingenious construction method for its weight-saving single-sided swingarm. More ‘firsts’ for a road-going Ducati included the direct application of MotoGP technology, like the power producing GP6-derived elliptical throttle bodies and the use of the information-rich instrumentation originally developed for the World Championship-winning Desmosedici GP7.
The ‘R’ version of the 1098 is not only the flagship of the Superbike family, but also the platform on which the very latest Ducati Corse technologies are expressed in street bike form. The 1098 R takes all the original 1098 features, reduces weight even further and adds an extra 20 horsepower, traction control, sand-cast crankcases, titanium valves and con-rods, TTXR rear suspension and much more to produce the most awesome performance ever seen in this category.
The 1098 R comes with a race kit, which is intended for track use only, boosting power output from 180 to approximately 186 hp. The kit consists of a 102dB carbon fibre slip-on muffler kit by Termignoni and a dedicated ECU. The ECU not only has reconfigured mapping to suit the racing mufflers, but also initiates the system dialogue that controls the DTC (Ducati Traction Control) system. The 1098 R is the first ever production bike to be fitted with a true competition-level traction control.
1098 R Testastretta Evoluzione power
The 1098 R engine represents the finest twin-cylinder technology in the world. It produces 180 hp (132.4 kW) @ 9,750 rpm and 99.1 lb-ft (13.7 kgm) of brute torque @ 7,750 rpm in standard mode and an astonishing 186 hp when using the supplied race kit, which is intended for track use only.
The specification of this engine underlines its no-compromise race technology. To help contain the massive ‘R’ power output, the crankcases and cylinder heads have been sand-cast produced, a process that improves the molecular quality of the casting, increasing strength while ensuring that intricate shapes are achieved with absolute accuracy. Confirming the 1098 R’s race specification by minimising weight and increasing performance, the crankshaft connecting rods are made in titanium saving 130 g over the stock 1098 rods while reducing their reciprocating forces and improving crankshaft acceleration. Cam belt covers moulded in carbon fibre and cam covers cast in magnesium alloy complete the lightweight package. The result is a weight saving of 5.6 kg (12.34 lbs) over the 999 R engine and 2.2 kg (4.8 lbs) less than the 1098.
The increased capacity of 1198.4 cc is the product of a larger bore and stroke of 106 x 67.9 mm and is fed through four titanium valves per cylinder and compressed to a ratio of 12.8:1. The valves, which are chrome nitride (CrN) coated, have been increased in diameter by approximately 5% to 44.3 mm for the inlet and 36.2 mm for the exhaust. They are actuated by rocker arms that are super-finished for reduced friction and fatigue, and double overhead camshafts with radical profiles that achieve approximately 16% more lift than the standard 1098.
These incredible valve performances are only possible because of Ducati’s unique Desmodromic system, where valve closure is activated mechanically. At high rpm it would be almost impossible for the valve to follow the steep closure profile of the cam lobe if it were relying upon a normal valve spring, but with the Desmo system the valve is mechanically closed with the same accuracy as it is opened, enabling steep cam profiles and radical cam timings. This system is used on every single Ducati motorcycle including the world-beating Desmosedici MotoGP bike.
The pistons utilise the same design developed for the Desmosedici in the Ducati MotoGP program by using a distinctive double-ribbed undercrown to achieve high strength with minimal piston wall surface area and, therefore, less friction. In this way, the 106 mm RR58 alloy components are able to operate reliably at high rpm while delivering incredible performance.
The 1098 R elliptical throttle bodies have been increased 6.5% in size compared to the 1098, a diameter now equal to 63.9 mm. For the first time on a road-going Ducati, twin injectors are used on each cylinder. The first centrally mounted injector feeds through a 4-hole nozzle while the second offset injector feeds through a 12-hole nozzle ensuring progressive and fluid power delivery throughout the rev-range. With this configuration the system has the capacity to provide much heavier fueling when used in competition.
The gearbox shares the same ratios as the 1098 and 1098 S, except for 3rd, 4th and 6th gear, which has a higher ratio so as to be able fully exploit the speed gained from the supplied race kit or additional performance modifications. Also with performance in mind and because of its high resistance to fatigue, the gears are machined from the same high-strength steel used in Ducati Corse race applications with 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th gears being subjected to a shot-peening treatment that further ensures their strength and reduced fatigue. The dry, multiplate ’slipper’ clutch reduces the destabilising effect of aggressive downshifting and helps provide the fine control required when used under extreme track conditions.
The 2-1-2 exhaust system, which complies with Euro 3 emission standards, is formed in 52 mm-57 mm diameter tubing with a wall thickness of 0.8 mm (.030 in) and terminates with Ducati’s trademark twin under-seat mufflers beautifully formed in super lightweight titanium and stainless steel.
Chassis
The 1098 R chassis and suspension components are the results of detailed study and a performance first priority approach to development. The goal was to achieve even more weight saving while building in strength and rigidity to manage the incredible power of the new 180 hp engine. The result is an impressive 16 kg (35 lbs) overall vehicle weight reduction compared to the 999 R and an impressive 6 kg (13 lbs) over the already lightweight 1098 S.
Trellis frame
Developed in cooperation with Ducati Corse, the 1098 R Trellis frame features main section tubes in ALS 450 with a diameter of 34 mm and 1.5 mm thickness to achieve a total weight of just 9 kg (19.8 lbs) and an extremely high strength-to-weight ratio. Race-proven with hundreds of victories, the Trellis design remains the chosen engineering solution by Ducati Corse and a feature of every Ducati motorcycle.
Front subframe
As with all the models in the Superbike family, the front subframe is produced in magnesium alloy to reduce the weight to just 0.61kg (1.3 lbs). While its construction ensures secure, rigid support for the headlamp, instruments and fairing, the weight-saving around this high, forward position contributes considerably to overall ‘feel’ and control of the machine.
Rear subframe
Underlining its competition intention, the 1098 R is designed as a true ‘monoposto’ with no provisions to carry a passenger. By producing the rear subframe in aluminium alloy it has enabled a 50% weight reduction (compared to biposto models) to 1.3 kg (2.8 lbs).
Single-sided swingarm
The 1098’s unique single-sided swingarm is made up of main operational components in aluminium castings so as to ensure strength around the pivot points, wheel hub and suspension links, with fabricated aluminium sections used to fuse the construction into a single, beautifully engineered component. For the ‘R’ model, the swingarm is finished in black to denote its racing status as well as to contrast sharply against the ‘racing gold’ wheels.
Rear Suspension
Working together with the single-sided swingarm and an efficient linkage is a fully adjustable Öhlins TTXR single shock. Used for the first time on a Ducati production bike,
this exclusive shock gives top performance while enabling considerable weight-saving over similar components produced with traditional technology.
The TTXR uses twin tube technology and offers totally separate damping adjustment in compression and rebound. It uses experience gained in MotoGP to minimise friction and reduce the risk of cavitation under extreme conditions. A vitally important feature of the rear suspension system is the ability to adjust rear ride height independent of spring pre-load and other suspension settings, critical when seeking the perfect set-up for personal riding style or track conditions.
Front Suspension
The front the of new 1098 R boasts fully adjustable 43 mm Öhlins with low friction Titanium Nitride sliders feature radial Monobloc caliper mountings. The unique look of these mountings further endorses the no-compromise racing specification of the 1098 R. The Öhlins set-up offers superior road holding, delivers precise feedback, and enables every rider to be more confident and in control. The Öhlins package is completed with a control-enhancing, fully adjustable steering damper.
Control
Brembo Monobloc calipers
The 1098 R is also equipped with Brembo’s Monobloc caliper racing technology. The M4 calipers use four 34 mm pistons and two large surface pads for maximum stopping power. The calipers are machined from a single piece of alloy compared to the bolt-together construction of conventional ones. The Monobloc design has much higher rigidity and resistance to distortion during extreme braking and gives a much more precise feel at the brake lever. The massive 330 mm discs and Monobloc caliper technology combined with the legendary stability of Ducati’s Trellis frame and the 1098 R’s lightweight 165 kg (364 lbs) now makes world championship level brake performance available for the road.
Super lightweight wheels
One of the most effective ways to improve the handling and performance of a motorcycle is to reduce its unsprung weight by using superior lightweight wheels. The 1098 R uses lightweight Marchesini Y-shaped spoke wheels created from forged then machined alloy and finished in ‘racing gold’. Both front and rear wheels achieve a lower moment of inertia and unsprung weight to enhance the 1098 R’s change of direction and braking performance.
Fairing and finish
Wind-tunnel development has enabled excellent aerodynamic penetration, allowing the rider to take a perfect racing stance, effortlessly. Great care has been taken in the design of the air supply ducts so to ensure efficient air-flow through radiator and oil coolers as well as provide ample air delivery to the airbox feeding the powerful Testastretta Evoluzione engine. The fairing belly-pan, tank lower side panels, seat assembly and front fender in carbon fibre are contributing factors to the overall performance of the machine.
In true ‘R’ style, the red bodywork sports white background number plates on the tail section and nose fairing. The front and rear Marchesini wheels are finished in ‘racing gold’, exactly the same as the F08 official factory race bikes and the fairing belly-pan, front fender and side panels are left in a contrasting natural carbon fibre finish.
Finally, the small red, white and green tricolore graphic, neatly shaped between the twin headlamps in the nose fairing, proudly underlines the Italian design, style and precision race engineering of this motorcycle.