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Bid to halt motorcycle theft boom

A boom in motorcycle theft rates has prompted the National Motor Vehicle Theft Reduction Council to invite rider groups to partner with them to raise security awareness.

Australian motor vehicle theft rose 7% in the 12 months to September 2019, largely the result of a 12% boom in motorcycle thefts, the highest of all vehicle groups.

Despite accounting for just 5% of registrations, motorcycle thefts now account for one in six stolen vehicles, according to Council figures.

Theft boom

The sobering statistics also show that almost two in three motorcycles are stolen from the home, one in six motorcycle theft victims have previously been a victim of theft and more than half of all stolen bikes are never recovered.

Council Projects and Communications Coordinator Caitlin Hrambanis says there could be several reasons for the explosion on motorcycle theft rates:

  • The ease with which they are stolen;
  • A high demand for parts; and
  • The lack of security measures by riders.

“The NMVTRC is looking to liaise with motoring groups to look to disseminate theft prevention messages,” Caitlin says.

“We are hoping to improve motorcycle security awareness among riders.”

The council wants to partner with interested motorcycle groups to improve the security message to riders.

For more details, please contact Caitlin by clicking here.

Click here for tips on securing your motorcycle or scooter.

Stolen bikes

The most likely targets for thieves are newer models, with almost 30% stolen aged five years or younger.

Motorcycles with an engine capacity of 150cc or less are the top theft targets such as scooters and mini bikes, closely followed by motorcycles with an engine capacity of 251-500cc.

South East Queensland is a hot spot for motorcycle theft with Brisbane, Gold Coast, Moreton Bay and Logan in the top five local authority areas for bike theft.

Motorcycle thefts by council areas 

(To the end of September)

State/Territory

Local council

2018

2019

% change

QLD

Brisbane (City)

371

514

38.5%

QLD

Gold Coast (City)

233

288

23.6%

VIC

Melbourne (City)

237

231

-2.5%

QLD

Moreton Bay (Regional Council)

117

175

49.6%

QLD

Logan (City)

158

171

8.2%

WA

Stirling (City)

130

166

27.7%

NSW

Sydney (City)

149

159

6.7%

VIC

Darebin (City)

105

139

32.4%

NSW

Newcastle (City)

111

137

23.4%

WA

Broome (Shire)

83

136

63.9%

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Champion Sexton undergoes surgery following pit bike incident

Image: Supplied.

Defending 250SX East champion Chase Sexton has undergone surgery after breaking his collarbone in a pit bike incident last weekend.

The Geico Honda entry, who was understood to be targeting an attack at the 250SX West championship, will now defend his crown on the east coast as a result.

Sexton has stated he’ll be sidelined for a three-week period, bringing his return to riding around the time of Anaheim’s Monster Energy Supercross season-opener on 4 January.

“Unfortunately I had a mishap on Sunday riding 110s that led me to break my collarbone,” Sexton said in a statement. “This feels like deja vu to last year, but I’ve already gotten surgery to fix it and we are on the mend now. Off the bike for three weeks and then back at it trying to defend the 1E this year.”

Sexton signed a unique deal for 2020 and beyond, which will see him race the 250SX East championship with Geico Honda before graduating to the premier class with Team Honda HRC for the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship.


Source: MotoOnline.com.au

Alleged positive anti-doping test provisionally suspends Iannone

Image: Russell Colvin.

The FIM has revealed MotoGP World Championship contender Andrea Iannone has been provisionally suspended after allegedly returning a positive sample for a banned substance under the World Anti-Doping Code.

The Aprilia Racing rider is understood to have returned an adverse analytical finding of a non-specified substance under Section 1.1.a) Exogenous Anabolic Androgenic Steroids (AAS) of the 2019 Prohibited List.

The reading was collected in a urine sample from him at an in-competition test carried out by the FIM at the penultimate round of MotoGP in Sepang, Malaysia, at the beginning of November.

Iannone has the right to request and attend the analysis of his B sample, while his provisional suspension comes into immediate effect from 17 December 2019.

He is banned from participating in any motorcycling competition or activity until further notice. Under Article 7.9.3.2 of the World Anti-Doping Code, the premier class race winner may request lifting of his provisional suspension. Iannone has since made a statement on social media, indicating he’ll request and attend the analysis of his B sample.

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

Oxley Highway to reopen for one lane

The Oxley Highway will reopen to one lane of traffic by this weekend under strict speed management with the support of escort vehicles.

A 10km section between Ralfes Trail and the Gingers Creek store will be open to one lane of traffic with alternate flow under the control of escort vehicles from Transport for NSW.

Reopen Oxley Highway
One-lane section

The decision is a welcome relief for popular riders’ rest stop Gingers Creek Roadhouse owner Gary Hartas.

His cafe has been closed to business since the highway was shut by bushfires on 25 October 2019 between Walcha and Long Flat. He also lost the accommodation building to the bushfires.

Support fire-ravaged Gingers Creek rider cafe
Accommodation destroyed

Staff member Tiohnee Ford started a GoFundMe page to support Gary while no income has been coming in. It has raised more than $7000.

Highway reopen

Oxley highway work bushfire
Oxley in flames

While the highway will reopen, repair work is still underway and expected to continue for several weeks into 2020 under traffic control.

Riders should expect lengthy delays, which means sitting at lights for some time in the heat, so take water with you.

However, don’t be deterred. It is still worth it to ride the rest of the highway and to support Gary’s cafe which is a popular rest stop for riders.

These traffic arrangements will operate 24 hours a day and remain in place until the highway is fully reopen.

Traffic control and a reduced speed limit will be in place in other sections for the safety of workers and motorists.

As there is a risk of rocks or trees falling onto the road surface in the event of high winds or significant rainfall, Transport for NSW may close the highway again at short notice.

Oxley highway work bushfire
Burn-out retaining walls

Many roads in NSW and Queensland remain closed due to bushfires and subsequent damage.

The Cunningham Highway in South East Queensland, did temporarily reopen, but it has closed again.

For more information on road closures, click on these: Queensland TrafficNSW Live Traffic App, WA Main Roads, South Australia, Tasmania and VicRoads.

You can also check the various state fire services websites by going to this central MYFIREWATCH service, then click on the state/territory.

Bushfire survival guide:

By all means riders should head out into the country to spend their much-needed dollar in drought-stricken areas, but they should also be alert to the bushfire conditions.

The best survival tip for a bushfire is to avoid it.

Apart from the above, you can also check the automobile clubs’ websites for the relevant state, as well as transport department traffic sites.

Try searching the Facebook pages of local fire and police pages.

Of course, you can use your eyes to see where the smoke is and use your commonsense to gauge wind direction and potential fire direction.

However,  don’t think you can outrun a bushfire. They can spread faster than any motorcycle can go, often jumping roadways, reducing your chance of survival.

Bushfires Harley Softail

Follow directions

It is not only stupid, but also unlawful to disobey a police or emergency services direction.

If you are told not to go down a road or there is a roadblock, you must not got that way.

The same goes for flood situations.

Don’t start a bushfire

Take notice of total fire ban signs and warnings as you don’t want to start a bushfire.

Fines are hefty and police have been severe in punishing offenders. Don’t expect a good-natured warning!

Riders should also be aware they can accidentally start a fire by parking their bike on dry grass or leaves.

Firefighters say about 40% of all bushfires are accidentally started by humans dropping cigarette butts, campfires, discarding bottles, sparks from machinery and motorcycles.

The catalytic convertor, which is often underneath, is the hottest part of your bike and can easily spark a fire.

Adventure riders who travel off road should take special care.Bushfires BMW R 1200 GS

Caught in a bushfire

If you are caught in a bushfire, your phone (or EPIRB, beacon, etc) will be your best friend.

Work out where you are exactly and then contact police and emergency services to give them your location.

Park your bike behind a solid structure to block as much heat as you can.

Turn off your bike’s engine, but leave the lights and/or hazard lights on.

Stay near your bike, but not too close in case it goes up in flames.

Try to get down low, near a water source or below the level of the fire as they move faster uphill.

Also try to get upwind from a fire.

Dangers of bushfires

Dehydration motorcycle gear Riders dies of dehydration in heatwave dust storm

Riders are more vulnerable than motorists in cars because they have no air conditioning to regulate air and temperature.

The biggest dangers for riders are from smoke inhalation, low visibility and eye irritation from smoke.

Carry water with you to flush out sore eyes and to ensure you stay hydrated.

Tips to avoid dehydration in a heatwave:

  1. Don’t drink too much alcohol the night before a ride. It has a diuretic effect which means it causes you to urinate more water than you take in which means you are losing fluid. And you can’t counteract that by drinking lots of water because most of it will go out in your urine. Obviously, don’t drink alcohol while you are riding!
  2. Start drinking water as soon as you wake and keep sipping water right up until you get on your bike. It takes about half an hour for water to reach your muscles. Guzzling water just before a ride is not good as it can make your stomach to cramp. The Royal Flying Doctor Service which has attended dehydrated riders in the Outback, recommends carrying 10 litres of water per day! Read their Outback riding tips here.
  3. Wear ventilated motorcycle clothing. Leathers may protect you better in a crash, but they create a “microclimate” which impairs your ability to lose heat. As a result you will produce more sweat to decrease your core temp. Instead, wear a flow-through jacket. There are heaps of options on the market. Make sure they have vents in the back so the air flows through. Also, loosen the sleeves so you get plenty of air on your wrists which have a lot of blood vessels close to the skin to effectively cool you down. However, be aware that a flow-through jacket cools you down because it is drying the sweat off your skin which can lead to dehydration. A set of Ventz up your sleeve will also keep you cool as air flows up your arms.However, don’t be fooled by your level of coolness as ventilation can also cause you to loose more water through evaporation. So you still need to keep drinking plenty of water.

    Ventz motorcycle jacket vents - pain heatwave dust storm
    BUY Ventz motorcycle jacket vents NOW

  4. Don’t be tempted to remove your jacket in the heat! Exposed skin may feel cooler, but that’s because the sweat is evaporating quicker, but that is just making you more dehydrated. And while your skin feels cool, you’ll be tricked into staying in the sun longer which leads to sunburn. That also leads to dehydration because your body needs water to repair and renew damaged skin.
  5. Get a Camelbak or other brand of water-dispensing unit so you can continue to take small sips of water while you are riding. I’ve seen riders on GoldWings and other big tourers with cup holders so they can take slurps from a water bottle. That’s obviously not as safe as the hands-free Camelback option, but anything is better than nothing. Some people don’t like Camelbaks because the water gets hot, but the temperature of the water doesn’t affect dehydration.Camelbak reduces dehydration heatwave dust storm
  6. Stop more often than usual and hang out in the shade or in an air-conditioned cafe. Since you are drinking lots of fluids, you will probably need to stop anyway!
  7. While you’re stopped, have a coffee, but take it easy. No need to swear off your favourite caramel latte, but avoid excess coffee. That also goes for caffeinated drinks such as Red Bull. High levels of caffeine have a diuretic effect just like alcohol.
  8. While having a coffee break, avoid having too many sweet cakes, donuts and muffins. Sugar can dehydrate you if it gets to very high levels in your blood. This can happen if you are a diabetic, take certain medications or have an infection or some organ diseases. Sugar causes your kidneys to produce more urine to eliminate the sugar, leading to dehydration. Likewise, don’t drink too many sugary drinks. Best to stick to plain water, real fruit juices with no added sugar or drinks such as Gatorade that replace salts and minerals lost in sweat.
  9. We’ve talked a lot about urine and it’s important that you monitor the colour. It should be a straw colour. If it’s too dark, you are dehydrated.
  10. Sweat also depletes your body of sodium and if it becomes too low, it can cause many of the same symptoms as dehydration. The average diet probably has enough sodium, but it’s good to have a little bit of salt on your meals or drink sports drinks that have a sodium supplement. However, beware of sports drinks with caffeine and sugar.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Segway Apex Electric Sportbike Concept Revealed in Beijing

Last month, personal mobility company Segway entered the powersports segment with an electric dirt bike and a range of off-road four-wheelers. What was missing at the time was a streetbike.

Well, Segway (and its parent company, Ninebot) has plans to fill that gap, revealing today an electric sportbike concept called the “Segway Apex.” Details are sparse, with Ninebot only claiming the Apex can “achieve a maximum speed of 125 mph and acceleration from 0-60 mph within only 2.9 seconds, making it the fastest product developed by Segway-Ninebot ever.”

Ninebot also calls the Apex a “super scooter,” though that may be a translation quirk for the Chinese company. You only have to look at the Apex to know it’s more motorcycle than scooter with its upside-down fork, dual front brakes and Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa tires.

We can also confirm that Segway has filed a trademark application in Europe for “Segway E-Sportbike,” though in our opinion, Apex is a much better name.

Ninebot also revealed an electric scooter concept, though it wasn’t presented under the Segway brand.

Begin Press Release


Segway-Ninebot Reveals Electric Bikes, Completing its Intelligent Mobility Product Lines

Segway-Ninebot unveiled its brand-new electric bikes in a launch event held in Beijing, China. Over 700 guests and journalists gathered for the debut of two smart scooters, Ninebot eMoped and Ninebot eScooter, along with two conceptual models, Ninebot eScooter T and Segway Apex.

“Three years ago, Segway-Ninebot decided to redefine the industry with innovations in intelligence. Today, we are introducing our electric bikes with ‘true intelligence’, with the goal of providing our customers with cutting-edge technologies and smart functions that make their rides more comfortable and convenient”, said Luke Gao, the Chairman and CEO of Segway-Ninebot.

Ninebot eScooter and eMoped have multiple intelligent features. Ninebot AirLock keyless system and Ninebot RideyGo can lock and unlock the vehicle automatically. The smart Battery Management System enables intelligent parallel connections, fast charging and state of health (SoH) check, and provides 20 protections for the battery, such as short circuit protection. Aided by GPS, BDS and base stations, you can keep track of your eScooter and eMoped at any time, accurately detect the abnormalities and get instant messages to your phone. In addition, the eScooter and eMoped utilize over-the-air updates to wirelessly upgrade the functionality.

“Not all devices that connect to apps are intelligent. Truly intelligent products should be easy to operate and even able to do the operations automatically”, commented Cid Wang, co-founder and President of Segway-Ninebot.

Ninebot eScooter: Go Smarter, Ride Farther

Ninebot eScooter is a smart electric scooter that can meet mid-to-long distance urban mobility needs. It features a vigorous power train. The top model, E200P, is able to achieve a maximum speed of 62mph and acceleration from 0-25 mph within 3 seconds, with a range of 125 miles under dual-battery mode. Large disc brakes, front and rear, and Maxxis semi-slick sport tubeless tires give it outstanding controllability and road adaptability.

The structure of eScooter has been optimized to offer a more comfortable and steady riding experience. Other features include large seat trunks that can easily fit a full-size helmet, light-sensing intelligent matrix LED headlights, backlight spectrum interactive dashboard, and high water resistance to adapt to various weather conditions.

The eScooter also provides customization options, where customers can choose from 100,000 body panel colors and seat cushion options to build their own dream vehicle.

Ninebot eMoped: the Halo Smart Electric Bike

Ninebot eMoped is a chic electric bike featuring a colorful appearance and various smart functions. It is quite compact at 5.25 ft in length and weighing only 121 lbs, making it easy for riders to even transport it in an elevator up to their apartments. The newly designed lithium battery can be removed and taken out single-handedly. Customers are also able to customize their eMopeds with up to 100,000 color combinations to choose from.

It features a 48V brushless motor, with a rated capacity of 400w and maximum torque of 40 lb-ft, enabling it to achieve top speed of 16mph. Three models of the eMoped come with different range options: 22-28  miles,  34-40 miles, and 47-53 miles.

Other features include user-friendly digital dashboard, simple operations that could be controlled with just 2 buttons, and a reliable braking system with front disc brakes and rear drum brakes.

Two Concept Scooters: Ninebot eScooter T and Segway Apex

Two concept scooters were also presented in today’s launch demonstrating Segway-Ninebot’s R&D strength and its vision for futuristic smart city transportations.

Ninebot eScooter T has the same appearance and specifications as Ninebot eScooter E100, with additional features of self-balancing and remote control. Customers can control the scooter with a smartphone app and tell it to travel to designated points, such as a parking garage. It won’t fall down even if it gets struck during the tour.

Segway Apex, on the other hand, is a super scooter that can achieve a maximum speed of 125 mph and acceleration from 0-60 mph within only 2.9 seconds, making it the fastest product developed by Segway-Ninebot ever.

Recently Announced

On November 5th, 2019, Company unveiled its first electric dirt bike, namely “Segway Dirt eBike” at The SEMA Show, Las Vegas in the U.S., which is currently available for pre-order on Indiegogo (See the related link below). On the same date, Segway announced three new off-road vehicles including ATV, UTV, and SSV, at EICMA in Milan, Italy, demonstrating a strategic move into a new market segment of powersports.

About Segway-Ninebot

Segway-Ninebot is a global enterprise in the fields of intelligent short-distance transportation and service robots. In 1999, Segway was established in Bedford, NH, the US, which is the world leader in commercial-grade, electric, self-balancing personal transportation. Ninebot is an intelligent short-distance transportation equipment operator integrating R&D, production, sales, and service, established in Beijing, 2012.

As Segway and Ninebot completed their strategic combination in 2015, Segway-Ninebot came into being. Today, the company’s businesses are all around the world and have subsidiaries in Beijing, Seattle, Bedford, Amsterdam, Seoul, Singapore, Munich, Changzhou, and Tianjin, selling products in more than 80 countries and regions. With world-renowned intellectual property, Segway-Ninebot will create more products that will lead the users and the entire industry into the future.

 

The post Segway Apex Electric Sportbike Concept Revealed in Beijing appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

How double demerit points can affect you

Double demerit points apply from Friday (20 December 2019) in NSW, the ACT and Western Australia, affecting licensed riders not only in those states, but also Queensland.

The penalty period lasts until January 1 (inclusive) in NSW and ACT and January 5 in WA where one rider copped a hefty 14 demerit points and $1200 fine over the Western Australia Day long weekend in June 2019.

Traffic Enforcement Group officers tweeted the above photo of the fine after nabbing the rider at more than 120km/h in an 80km/h zone in Ravenswood.

Police noted on the fine that the rider told them: “She (his bike) was flooding and gurgling; just gave it a blat”.

His licence was suspended for three months.

Double points danger

Riders from Victoria, Tasmania, Northern Territory and South Australia passing through NSW, ACT or WA during any declared holiday period do not cop the double demerits.

Police cops speed speeding sensation annual demerit

However, Queensland riders should note that in certain circumstances they do apply.

The law in Queensland is that double points do apply to speeding offences of 21km/h or greater over the speed limit and seatbelt offences if they occur more than once within a 12 month period.

Lawyer Stephen Hayles of Macrossan and Amiet Solicitors says he has been asked by clients about the system after copping a fine in an applicable state.

“For example if you commit two speeding offences of driving 21km/h over the speed limit in a 12 month period, you will be allocated four demerit points for the first offence and four demerit points for the second offence plus an additional four demerit points,” he says.

“This means that you will have accumulated 12 demerit points within a 12 month period and you risk having your licence suspended.”

How demerit points are recorded

NSW police blitz demerit

Double points apply in NSW and ACT over the Australia Day weekend, Easter, Anzac Day, Queen’s Birthday, Labour Day and Christmas/New Year.

In WA, the double points apply on Australia Day (unless it falls on a week day), Labour Day, Easter, Anzac Day (unless it falls on a week day), Western Australia Day, Queen’s Birthday, and Christmas/New Year.

If a rider in another state commits a traffic offence in a state during a double-demerit period, the offence is recorded as a double demerit offence on their traffic history in the state where the offence happened.

The state licensing authority will then report the offence to the transport department in your state who will record the offence on your traffic history.

However, the double points will only apply in Queensland under the circumstances described above.

Choice of penalty

Stephen says that if you have committed a traffic offence recently and you receive a Queensland Transport notice that you have accumulated your allowed demerits, you will have a choice of a good driving behaviour period or a licence suspension for a period.

“When considering whether to agree to a good behaviour driving behaviour period and a licence suspension, it is important that a licence holder understands that accepting a suspension of their licence may preclude them from making an Application for a Special Hardship Order or an Application for a Restricted (Work) Licence for the next five years,” he warns.

If you are unsure about how many demerit points you have, you can search your record online at your state’s transport department website or call them and request a copy of your traffic history.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

New Product Spotlight: Leatt 5.5 Flexlock Boots

The South African company continues to broaden its product range with the all-new Leatt 5.5 Flexlock Boots.

Begin Press Release: 


Moto 5.5 FlexLock Boots

Leatt presents the Next Step in Premium Protective Gear

CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA, December 12, 2019 – Leatt has finally released the long-awaited ALL-NEW 5.5 FlexLock Boots as part of their Twenty/Twenty GPX range. When it comes to your riding kit, a quality pair of boots is one of the top pieces of gear you can invest in. As key points of contact to your bike, it’s essential that your feet, as well as your ankles and shins, stay comfortable and protected.

Leatt 5.5 Flexlock Boots

Three years of development and testing with our pro athletes from all over the world has resulted in the creation of the exceptional 5.5 FlexLock boot. A real head-turner when it comes to looks and style, the boots are available in white and black, red and blue, and plain black.

Leatt 5.5 Flexlock Boots

When riding your bike hard, the superior durability and support provided by Leatt’s brand-new 5.5 FlexLock boots will be evident. Featuring a SlideLock system for an outstanding first-class fit and a low-profile toebox for easy gear shifting, these boots have all the features and benefits any rider will ever need.

Designed to optimize grip and maneuverability for landing those big jumps, while staying connected to your bike. CE tested and certified, the interior is cushioned with impact foam for a protective yet snug, soft and comfortable feel. An incredible FlexLock system that’s proven to reduce ankle forces by up to 37% and knee forces by up to 35% upon impact when compared to an industry leading competitor boot.

Leatt 5.5 Flexlock Boots

Extensive research, advanced design and high-tech materials make these boots the next step in premium protective gear. Leatt is thrilled to now offer head-to-toe protection!

Strap into a pair of ALL-NEW Leatt 5.5 FlexLock boots for fluid, seamless and confident movement, as you shrug off dirt, debris and impact with ease. Learn more at www.Leatt.com.

US retail $389.99 / EU retail €389.00 / UK retail £330.00

Leatt 5.5 Flexlock Boots
Leatt 5.5 Flexlock Boots
Leatt 5.5 Flexlock Boots

 

Shop for the Leatt 5.5 Flexlock Boots here


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The post New Product Spotlight: Leatt 5.5 Flexlock Boots appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

These Are The Best Small Standard Motorcycles For Beginners And Experienced Riders

Small-bore bikes are everywhere these days, and small-bore standards are available from many of the major manufacturers. These are sub-500cc bikes designed with upright ergos, neutral ride positions, and mid-mount controls, designed to be effective in just about any street riding scenario. This segment is ideal for new riders looking for cost-effective, approachable bikes. And as the available options grow, features get more and more sophisticated, making many of these machines amenable to riders with more experience as well. Below are seven of our favorite small-bore standards currently available, each one a fine choice for riders seeking comfort, versatility, and affable manners on the road.

2020 Ducati Scrambler Sixty2

The Ducati Scrambler Sixty2 has unmistakable style.
The Ducati Scrambler Sixty2 has unmistakable style.Ducati

The Ducati Scrambler line is immensely popular and includes an entry-level option for those not yet comfortable with the idea of an 803cc machine. The Scrambler Sixty2 is a gentler choice, powered by a 399cc air-cooled L-twin. It retains the hip look of the line and has ergos that are great for riders of all sizes. The Showa fork and Kayaba rear shock (fully adjustable) provide a smooth ride and its 403-pound weight is easy to handle on the go. “You become almost instantly comfortable with the little machine even in low gears,” our reviewer explained when the bike first debuted back in 2017. It’s a little spendy compared to the other bikes on the list at $7,995, but it’s worth the cost if you’re looking to get a well-built, eye-catching, easy-to-handle motorcycles.

2020 Honda CB300R ABS

For a lightweight, mild-mannered ride experience, the Honda CB300R is unmatched.
For a lightweight, mild-mannered ride experience, the Honda CB300R is unmatched.Honda

Honda’s CB300R ABS is a 286cc single-cylinder standard that unites modern streetfighter aesthetics with performance capabilities squarely aimed at new riders. The engine produces mild, easy-to-manage power, and the bike utilizes a clutch that’s smooth and reliable. It’s a feather-light machine that tips the scales at 317 pounds (with ABS) and it handles effortlessly. It’s got a decent suspension package for an entry-level bike and provides a notably smooth ride on slightly rough roads. It also has a cockpit well-suited to the full-size rider, so even if you’re coming to bikes later in life, you won’t feel cramped on the 300R.

2020 Husqvarna Svartpilen 401

Ride the future on the Husqvarna Svartpilen 401.
Ride the future on the Husqvarna Svartpilen 401.Husqvarna

The Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 is the most distinctive-looking bike on this list, blending standard ergos with unique lines to make a bike that will turn heads wherever you go. It’s got a 373cc single-cylinder engine that puts out 44 hp, trellis frame, WP suspension, ByBre braking components, Bosch ABS, and loads of additional upgrade items to make it truly unique. Its road-going chops are enough to keep even experienced riders satisfied.

2020 Kawasaki Z400 ABS

New riders and experienced riders alike will find joy on the Kawasaki Z400 ABS.
New riders and experienced riders alike will find joy on the Kawasaki Z400 ABS.Kawasaki

The latest Kawasaki Z400 ABS brings you into the 21st century with its naked sport aesthetic and modern refinements aimed to maximize usability. It’s powered by a 399cc parallel-twin engine, has ABS, a slipper clutch, and well-balanced mass resulting in a machine that’s extraordinarily easy to handle. “Every component of the Z400 conveys lightness,” one reviewer claimed during his first ride aboard the 2019 edition. And yet, its 43 hp and 24 pound-feet of torque provide a remarkably spirited ride. For new riders, this well-mannered machine provides an ideal entry point to the world of motorcycles. For more-experienced riders this bike can provide an exhilarating experience when pushed to its full potential.

2020 KTM 390 Duke

The KTM 390 Duke is one of our favorites in the segment.
The KTM 390 Duke is one of our favorites in the segment.Jeff Allen

The KTM 390 Duke shares the same engine architecture as the Svartpilen 401, but has been around long enough to establish itself as a leader in the category. The mill provides a spirited ride and its lightweight build makes it a breeze to handle. Adjustable WP suspension, ByBre brakes, and Bosch ABS contribute to its flickable, composed manners on commutes or when ripping in the twisties. Its cockpit was a little cramped for taller riders during this naked bike comparison, but the positive note about the ergos is that they provide a racier feel. When compared against the Vitpilen 401 and CB300R, the KTM “offers the best overall bang for the buck.”

2019 Suzuki TU250X

The Suzuki TU250X embodies the nostalgic UJM aesthetic.
The Suzuki TU250X embodies the nostalgic UJM aesthetic.Suzuki

The 2019 Suzuki TU250X is a true beginner’s bike. The 249cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled motorcycle carries on the UJM tradition with its classic styling, and its mechanical simplicity is great for riders who are just learning the ropes in the garage. It’s not going to win any races, but its smooth power delivery, stable feel, and forgiving transmission are confidence-inspiring to less-experienced riders. The TU250X is by no means the most exciting small-bore standard on this list, but as a neutral, approachable machine it represents the core idea of what this segment is all about.

2020 Yamaha MT-03

The Yamaha MT-03 is new to the States in 2020.
The Yamaha MT-03 is new to the States in 2020.Yamaha

Yamaha has enjoyed a lot of success in the standard segment with its MT line, and in 2020 adds a small-bore MT-03 to the roster in the States. It shares the same 321cc parallel twin as the YZF-R3, which has become a favorite platform in the small-bore segment for us over the years. It’s a balanced engine that provides a surprisingly sporty ride while maintaining the fuel economy and manageable delivery riders expect from the entry-level ranks. It also provides some upspec pieces compared to others in this realm, including USK KYB forks, and preload adjustable rear shock.

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

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