Posted by motorsport on 10:18 AM
Whether it’s simply coincidence, a barometer of the still-weak world economy or a sign of changing OEM methodologies, we’re not exactly sure, but that no significant updates made their way into the crop of Japanese literbikes for 2010 is a matter of fact.
The past year saw two all-new models (the R1 and GSX-R1000) continue the typical two-year development cycle from Japan. Prior to 2010, each new model year generally saw at least one model from the Big Four receive heavy revision. This year is something of a dry spell. But, hey, at least there are a couple changes in the liter class. In the 600cc supersport arena there’s nothing...
Posted by motorsport on 10:12 AM
If you’ve been paying attention lately, you’ll have seen evidence of a new teaser marketing campaign in advance of Kawasaki’s upcoming 2011 ZX-10R literbike. A trickling of info, photos and an all-too-brief video have been served up at Kawasaki-Challenge.com since the site launched on June 21. The site’s latest dollop of 10R news came last week when a race version of the 2011 ZX-10R took part in track testing at the Suzuka Circuit in Japan on July 7 and 8. The non-stock Ninja was ridden on the first day by test rider Hidemichi Takahashi, followed up on day two by Kawasaki’s former World Superbike star rider, Akira Yanagawa. Precious...
Posted by motorsport on 10:09 AM
BMW's motorcycle division hasn't enjoyed the worldwide performance reputation of its automotive sector, but that all changes with the incredible S1000RR, introduced to journalists last week at the equally impressive Portimao race circuit.
BMW Motorrad hits the literbike market hard with its race replica, as the S1000 employs class-leading power, a stout chassis beyond reproach, and a techie electronics package second to none. This bike is the real deal. We've been teased with details of the bike for well over a year. Our first glimpse came in April of 2008 when I wrote the S1000RR Preview, and then we brought new insight...
Posted by motorsport on 10:05 AM
With apologies to one of the greatest bands ever, this time around in Andalucía it was an Italian bombshell that was stealing hearts. Ducati’s new Superbike-based Streetfighter truly is the bomb.Unlike nearly every naked bike we can think of, Ducati has created a stripped-down, super-sporting roadster without excuses – no tuning for torque, and no dumbed-down suspension.The Streetfighter’s engine is ripped nearly unchanged from the 1098 sportbike, differing only in shorter intake tracts that knock off a scant 5 hp. The result is a claimed 155 hp at 9500 rpm, aided by a midrange-inducing exhaust valve. The use of the 1198’s Vacural...
Posted by motorsport on 10:00 AM
With an impressive exhibition presence of approximately 400m2, stand D-040 in hall 8 of Cologne’s INTERMOT 2010 show now plays host to exciting new arrivals in the Superbike family in addition to new colours and updates for both the Streetfighter and Monster range. With new models, accessories and apparel, the Italian motorcycle manufacturer from Bologna is showing a wide range of new 2011 products at this major international show.“We decided to consolidate our presence here in Cologne because we believe in the importance of this exhibition event, which opens the European motor show season,” stated Gabriele Del Torchio, President of...
Posted by motorsport on 8:00 AM
You want performance? You want style? Then you want a Honda CBR1000RR. Designed to be the ultimate streetbike, it’s been refined to perfection on World Superbike tracks across the globe. In addition to its powerful engine and refined chassis the CBR1000RR showcases state-of-the-art features no other sportbike can match, like our electronically controlled Combined ABS and the revolutionary Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD). The result is one of the most awesome literbikes on the planet, but also one that’s so refined it’s a joy to ride. And after all, isn’t that exactly what you’d expect from a Honda? Stop That!The CBR1000RR (along...
