2020 Is Shaping Up To Be A Great Year For Motorcycles

Autumn is always an exciting time in the motorcycle industry. It’s true that news of some models to come is released before the big bike shows, but EICMA and Intermot always leave us feeling stoked on the year to come. And 2020 looks to be no different. True, there are loads of existing models that are only getting a face-lift or minor modifications, but there are some that are getting extensive overhauls. And in some cases, we’re seeing models that will be brand-new to the market. These are the bikes we can’t wait to ride.

2020 Aprilia RS 660

The Aprilia RS 660 might be one of the most eagerly anticipated bikes of the year.
The Aprilia RS 660 might be one of the most eagerly anticipated bikes of the year.Aprilia

Aprilia is introducing an entirely new line with the RS 660, utilizing a fresh 660cc parallel-twin engine that is half the RSV4 mill. It promises 100 hp and comes with a sophisticated electronics suite. Sleek, race-inspired bodywork and an RSV4-inspired chassis will undoubtedly contribute to a quick, nimble-handling machine. The middleweight sportbike realm hasn’t exactly been a hotbed of activity of late, so seeing a brand-new model from the premium Italian marque is an exciting prospect. So too is the impending line of 660cc-powered machines yet to come from Aprilia.

BMW F 900 R And F 900 XR

A pair of new 900-level bikes from BMW are high on our to-ride list in 2020.
A pair of new 900-level bikes from BMW are high on our to-ride list in 2020.BMW

In addition to updates to the S 1000 XR and S 1000 RR, BMW will be offering a new pair of 895cc parallel-twin machines that we can’t wait to sample. The F 900 R and F 900 XR replace the 800 level platforms of last year and look to be well positioned to balance optimal handling characteristics with spirited power output. The R will be a welcome option to road riders who want to shred corners while the XR will handle touring duty for riders who like to spend a few days or more on the road. In both cases, we’re eager to see if and how the step-up in performance translates to an improved ride experience.

2020 Ducati Streetfighter V4

The new Ducati Streetfighter V4 promises to be a massively enjoyable machine.
The new Ducati Streetfighter V4 promises to be a massively enjoyable machine.Ducati

Ducati takes its incredible new 1,103cc V-4 engine, which we sampled during our ride of the new Panigale V4 S, and plants it in the naked Streetfighter V4. Higher bars, more neutral riding position, up-spec suspension and braking components, winglets, and a gorgeous look all contribute to making this a really enticing ride. We love the way the Tuono V4 makes use of the RSV4-inspired engine, and hope for a similar experience aboard the new Streetfighter V4.

Harley-Davidson Streetfighter

How will Harley-Davidson stack up to the existing stock of nakeds with its Streetfighter? We’re eager to find out.
How will Harley-Davidson stack up to the existing stock of nakeds with its Streetfighter? We’re eager to find out.Harley-Davidson

Harley-Davidson has made its intention to break out of its cruiser rut abundantly clear. From the LiveWire electric bike to the forthcoming Pan America, there’s a whole new roster of bikes to expand the brand. One, Harley’s new Streetfighter, is on deck to go into production in 2020 and we can’t wait to see how the bike stacks up to other nakeds in the segment. The 975cc V-twin will likely be plenty punchy, but the real question is how well the chassis fares when pushed to the limit. Technical details are sparse at the moment, so this bike remains a bit of a mystery at the moment, which is why we’re all the more excited to finally swing a leg over.

2021 KTM 890 Duke

The KTM 890 Duke addresses some gripes we had with the 790 and appears to be a much more capable machine.
The KTM 890 Duke addresses some gripes we had with the 790 and appears to be a much more capable machine.KTM

KTM responds to the suspension and braking gripes riders had of the 790 Duke with the new 890 Duke. The new machine comes equipped with Brembo binders and WP Apex suspension, and adds 16 more horsepower over the 790 with a revised mill. The caveat is that this will be a 2021 model, but will be available starting fall of 2020. As soon as we’re able, we’ll get our hands on one to see the effect of the revisions. We expect this to be one of the best Duke models yet.

Triumph Tiger 900

The Triumph Tiger 900 is likely to be an even better version of an already well-appointed motorcycle.
The Triumph Tiger 900 is likely to be an even better version of an already well-appointed motorcycle.Triumph

Triumph leaves behind the 800-level Tiger for a more torquey 888cc triple in the Tiger 900. The platform has proven a quite capable adventure rig in the past, described by our testers as an “egalitarian ADV” for its well-rounded capabilities on and off road. Updates to the instrumentation, suspension, and weight distribution signal an even more refined feel over the outgoing model and we’re chomping at the bit to confirm the improvements.

2020 Yamaha MT-03

For entry-level riders the Yamaha MT-03 is likely to be an enticing prospect.
For entry-level riders the Yamaha MT-03 is likely to be an enticing prospect.Yamaha

Yamaha’s new MT-03 finally comes to the States in 2020 and is a welcome addition to the fairly expansive selection of entry-level machines now available. That’s because the YZF-R3 parallel twin engine has been such a blast. That 321cc mill will also power the MT, and so we already know it will be fully capable of logging comfortable highway miles, providing decent pull (for the segment) when rolling on during corner exit, and yield commendable mpg results. The styling is on point for the line as well, and gauging by the success of the larger models in the line, the MT-03 has a bright future ahead.

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

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