2020 Suzuki V-Strom 1050XT in Orange and White. Images courtesy Suzuki.
Suzuki has announced updates for its lineup of big V-Stroms, including a nomenclature change from 1000 to 1050. The 2020 V-Strom 1050, V-Strom 1050XT and V-Strom 1050XT Adventure feature sharper styling with bold, bright paint schemes that reflect Suzuki’s historical race livery, and a few technological updates.
At the heart of each Strom is the tried-and-true 1037cc 90-degree V-twin that Suzuki says has been updated with more horsepower while still complying with worldwide emissions standards. Ride-by-wire with dual electronic throttle assemblies powers a revised traction control system with an additional ride mode (for a total of four), a new three-mode Drive Mode Selector that adjusts power delivery characteristics and the addition of Suzuki’s one-touch Easy Start System. There is also a new LCD instrument with mounting bar for a GPS and a new USB port.
2020 Suzuki V-Strom 1050 rolls on cast wheels and comes in Gray and Black.
The base V-Strom 1050 rolls on cast wheels, but the V-Strom 1050XT and 1050XT Adventure both include tubeless spoked wheels for more off-road endeavors. They also feature the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) with a new six-direction, three-axis IMU. The S.I.R.S. includes electronic cruise control and an updated cornering ABS and combined braking system that now includes Hill Hold Control and a Slope Dependent Control System that manages rear wheel lift when riding downhill.
Both the V-Strom 1050XT and 1050XT Adventure also come with a redesigned windscreen, hand guards and mirrors, a new height-adjustable two-piece seat, a centerstand, engine guards and more.
The 2020 V-Strom 1050XT will be available in two colors, Championship Yellow and Orange and White. The V-Strom 1050XT Adventure will be available in Glass Sparkle Black and includes quick-release aluminum panniers and heated grips. Pricing and availability on all three models is TBD.
Keep scrolling for more photos….
2020 Suzuki V-Strom 1050XT in Championship Yellow.2020 Suzuki V-Strom 1050XT Adventure in Glass Sparkle Black.
Ducati has announced its entire 2020 motorcycle lineup, which includes new models such as the Streetfighter V4 and V4 S and the Panigale V2, updates to its Panigale V4 and V4 S, a new version of the Multistrada 1260 S called the Grand Tour and the Scrambler Icon Dark.
After a four-year absence, the Streetfighter returns for
2020 and is now a naked version of the Panigale V4 with an upright handlebar. Its
1,103cc Desmosedici Stradale V4 makes a claimed 208 horsepower at 12,750 rpm
and 90 lb-ft of torque at 11,500 rpm. Features include “biplane wing”
aerodynamics, a full IMU-based electronics package with riding modes, fully
adjustable suspension (Showa Big Piston Fork, Sachs shock), a Sachs steering
damper, Brembo Stylema monoblock front calipers, Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II
tires, a TFT display and LED lighting. With its 4.23-gallon aluminum tank full,
the Streetfighter V4 is said to weigh 443 pounds.
The higher-spec Streetfighter V4 S gets Ducati Electronic
Suspension (DES) EVO, Öhlins suspension (NIX-30 fork, TTX 36 shock and steering
damper) with Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 control system and forged aluminum Marchesini
wheels, and claimed curb weight is 439 pounds.
Both the Streetfighter V4 and Streetfighter V4 S come in
Ducati Red with a dark gray frame and black wheels. Pricing and availability
are TBD.
2020 Ducati Panigale V2
2020 Ducati Panigale V2
The Panigale 959 has been renamed the Panigale V2, and it’s
powered by a Euro 5-compliant version of the 955cc Superquadro L-twin that
makes a claimed 155 horsepower at 10,750 rpm and 77 lb-ft of torque at 9,000
rpm. For 2020 the Panigale V2 gets all-new bodywork, a full IMU-based electronics
package with riding modes, fully adjustable suspension (Showa Big Piston Fork,
Sachs shock), a Sachs steering damper, Brembo M4.32 monoblock front calipers, Pirelli
Diablo Rosso Corsa II tires, a TFT display and LED lighting. With its 4.5-gallon
steel tank full, the Panigale V2 weighs a claimed 441 pounds. The only color
option is Ducati Red with black wheels; pricing and availability are TBD.
2020 Ducati Panigale V4 and V4 S
2020 Ducati Panigale V4
Introduced for 2018 as the first mass-produced Ducati to incorporate a 4-cylinder engine, the Panigale V4 and V4 S have been updated for 2020 with “a series of refinements [that] make for an easier, more user-friendly, less fatiguing ride while simultaneously making the bike faster not just on individual laps but over entire timed sessions.” Adapted from the Panigale V4 R, the V4 and V4 S get a new aerodynamics package for improved stability, modified Front Frame stiffness for better feel at full lean and new settings for the electronics, suspension and throttle-by-wire mapping.
The Panigale V4 and V4 S are powered by a version of the 1,103cc
Desmosedici Stradale V4 with “new rider torque demand control logic” that makes
a claimed 214 horsepower at 13,000 rpm and 91.5 lb-ft of torque at 10,000 rpm.
The Panigale V4 features a full IMU-based electronics package with riding
modes, fully adjustable suspension (Showa Big Piston Fork, Sachs shock), a
Sachs steering damper, Brembo Stylema monoblock front calipers, Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa
SP tires, a TFT display and LED lighting. With its 4.23-gallon aluminum tank
full, claimed curb weight for the Panigale V4 is 436 pounds.
The higher-spec Panigale V4 S gets Ducati Electronic Suspension (DES) EVO, Öhlins suspension (NIX-30 fork, TTX 36 shock and steering damper) with Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 control system, forged aluminum Marchesini wheels, a lithium-ion battery and sports grips. Claimed curb weight is 430 pounds.
Both the Panigale V4 and Panigale V4 S come in Ducati Red
with a dark gray frame and black wheels. Pricing and availability are TBD.
2020 Ducati Multistrada 1260 S Grand Tour
2020 Ducati Multistrada 1260 S Grand Tour
Joining Ducati’s adventure bike family for 2020 is the Multistrada 1260 S Grand Tour, a special version with enhanced style and touring capability. Powered by the 1,262cc Testastretta DVT L-twin that makes a claimed 158 horsepower at 9,500 rpm and 95 lb-ft of torque at 7,500 rpm, the Grand Tour features riding modes that adjust power, throttle response, ABS and traction control settings, a full suite of IMU-based electronics (cornering ABS and traction control, cornering lights, wheelie control), semi-active Ducati Skyhook Suspension Evolution, an up/down quickshifter, hill hold control, cruise control, Brembo M50 monoblock front calipers, a TFT display and the Ducati Multimedia System. The rider’s seat height is adjustable, and the Grand Tour comes standard with a centerstand, hard saddlebags, heated grips, a keyless gas cap and a tire-pressure monitoring system.
The 2020 Ducati Multistrada 1260 S Grand Tour comes in Sandstone Grey with Ducati Red trims, red frame and black wheels with Ducati red trims. Pricing and availability are TBD.
Returning for 2020 are the Multistrada 950, Multistrada 950 S, Multistrada 1260, Multistrada 1260 S, Multistrada 1260 S D|Air, Multistrada 1260 Pikes Peak and Multistrada 1260 Enduro.
2020 Ducati Scrambler Icon Dark
2020 Ducati Scrambler Icon Dark
Joining the Icon, Full Throttle, Café Racer and Desert Sled
in Ducati’s 803cc air-cooled Scrambler lineup is the Icon Dark, a matte black
version with a black frame and black seat with gray piping. All Ducati
Scramblers are Euro 5 compliant without any loss in performance, and cornering
ABS is standard equipment.
Other returning Ducati models for 2020 include (pricing and availability are TBD):
For 2020, Honda has updated its Africa Twin platform–now designated CRF1100L–with a larger, more powerful engine, new electronics and more.
Back in 2016 Honda launched a reboot of the Africa Twin, a
legendary, ’80s-era, Dakar-inspired dual-sport that never made it to the U.S. Sharing
the “CRF” model designation with Honda’s line of off-road bikes made it clear
that the all-new CRF1000L Africa Twin was designed to be just as capable off
the pavement as on it.
2020 Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin in Matte Black Metallic
Powered by a snappy 998cc parallel twin, the Africa Twin shared
DNA with Honda’s Dakar competition bike, the CRF450R Rally, with a semi-double
cradle frame, 21-inch front/18-inch rear spoked wheels with tube-type tires, extra-long
suspension travel (9.1 inches front, 8.7 inches rear) and nearly 10 inches of
ground clearance. It was offered as a standard model with a 6-speed manual
transmission with an assist-and-slipper clutch, or as a DCT model with Honda’s
Dual Clutch Transmission with automatic and manual modes.
The 2020 Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES with factory accessories including aluminum luggage, engine protection bars and more.
For 2018, Honda introduced a more touring oriented version
called the Africa Twin Adventure Sports, which benefited from engine updates, a
lightweight lithium-ion battery, throttle-by-wire with riding modes, an extra
inch of suspension travel, a 1.4-gallon larger fuel tank (6.4 gallons), a taller
windscreen, a taller handlebar and other cosmetic, ergonomic and functional
changes.
There’s been buzz for a while now something new coming down
the pike, and today Honda announced the new 2020 CRF1100L Africa Twin and
CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES. Both get a larger, more powerful
engine, a more advanced suite of electronic rider aids and other updates. The
standard Africa Twin is geared more toward off-road performance, while the
Adventure Sports ES is designed to deliver more comfort and confidence for
long-distance touring.
With an 86cc bump in displacement and intake and exhaust updates, the parallel twin that powers the CRF1100L Africa Twin is said to be 6% more powerful than its predecessor.
The liquid-cooled, DOHC parallel twin powering both Africa
Twin models gets an 86cc bump in displacement, to 1,084cc, which, along with along
with improved intake and exhaust systems, results in a claimed 6% increase in horsepower.
The frame has been updated for optimized handling, the rear subframe is now made
of aluminum construction and is detachable, and the CRF450R-style aluminum swingarm
is lighter and more rigid.
Both 2020 Africa Twins get a six-axis IMU, new rider aids, a full-color TFT touchscreen display and standard cruise control.
A six-axis inertial measurement unit (IMU) enables new rider
aids including wheelie control, cornering ABS, rear-lift control, DCT cornering
detection and cornering lights. A new 6.5-inch TFT color touchscreen display is
compatible with Apple CarPlay, and cruise control is standard on both models.
2020 Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin
2020 Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin in Matte Black Metallic
The 2020 Honda Africa Twin features a shorter, fixed
windscreen and a 5-gallon fuel tank. It will be available in March 2020 in
Matte Black Metallic for $14,399 with a 6-speed transmission or $15,199 with
DCT.
2020 Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES
2020 Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES in Pearl Glare White/Blue
The 2020 Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES features new Showa
Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment suspension (EERA), tubeless wheels,
heated grips, an accessory socket, a larger skid plate, an aluminum rear rack
and a 6.5-gallon tank. It will be available in March 2020 in Pricing Pearl
Glare White/Blue for $17,199 with a 6-speed transmission or $17,999 with DCT.
Tubeless wheels on the 2020 Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES responds to a common complaint about the standard Africa Twin. Many touring riders appreciate the convenience of quick roadside flat repairs.
Suzuki has announced new and returning models for its 2020 motorcycle lineup. New models include the modern interpretation of the iconic Katana sportbike, which we test rode in Japan and reviewed last spring, and the V-Strom 650XT Adventure.
All other returning models for 2020 are unchanged except for colors and pricing.
Based on the GSX-S1000 naked sportbike and powered by a liquid-cooled,
DOHC, 999cc in-line four that’s a modified, street-tuned version of the
GSX-R1000 K5 (2005-2008) engine, making 147 horsepower at 10,000 rpm and 80
lb-ft of torque at 9,500 rpm (claimed), the new Katana is based on the Katana
3.0 Concept created by Italian designer Rodolfo Frascoli.
Read about the history of the original, Hans Muth-designed 1981 GSX1100S Katana and the evolution of the new model in our First Ride Review. The 2020 Suzuki Katana will be available in Metallic Mystic Silver or Solid Black. Pricing starts at is $13,499 and it will be in dealerships in November.
2020 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT Adventure
2020 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT Adventure
Replacing the V-Strom 650XT Touring for 2020 is the V-Strom 650XT Adventure, which is equipped with tubeless spoked wheels, aluminum panniers, an accessory bar, a handlebar cross-brace, mirror extensions and a centerstand. Powered by a 645cc 90-degree V-twin, it is mechanically unchanged from the 2018 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT we last tested.
The 2020 Suzuki V-Strom XT Adventure will be available in
Pearl Vigor Blue and base MSRP is $10,399.
The rest are returning models….
2020 Suzuki Burgman 200
2020 Suzuki Burgman 200
For 2020, the Suzuki Burgman 200 scooter is available in
Pearl Brilliant White and base MSRP is $4,999.
2020 Suzuki Boulevard C50
2020 Suzuki Boulevard C50
For 2020, the Suzuki Boulevard C50 cruiser is available in
Candy Daring Red or Glass Sparkle Black and base MSRP is $8,299.
2020 Suzuki Boulevard C50T
2020 Suzuki Boulevard C50T
For 2020, the Suzuki Boulevard C50T touring cruiser is
available in Metallic Oort Gray No. 3 and base MSRP is $9,599.
2020 Suzuki Boulevard M109R B.O.S.S.
2020 Suzuki Boulevard M109R B.O.S.S.
For 2020, the Suzuki Boulevard M109R B.O.S.S. muscle cruiser
is available in Pearl Glacier White/Glass Sparkle Black or Metallic Oort
Gray/Glass Sparkle Black and base MSRP is $15,199.
2020 Suzuki DR-Z400S
2020 Suzuki DR-Z400S
For 2020, the Suzuki DR-Z400S dual-sport is available in Solid
Black and base MSRP is $6,799.
2020 Suzuki DR-Z400SM
2020 Suzuki DR-Z400SM
For 2020, the Suzuki DR-Z400SM supermoto is available in Solid
Iron Gray or Solid Special White No. 2 and base MSRP is $7,399.
2020 Suzuki DR200S
2020 Suzuki DR200S
For 2020, the Suzuki DR200S dual-sport is available in Solid
Iron Gray and base MSRP is $4,649.
2020 Suzuki GSX-R600
2020 Suzuki GSX-R600
For 2020, the Suzuki GSX-R600 sportbike is available in Pearl
Glacier White or Glass Sparkle Black and base MSRP is $11,399.
2020 Suzuki GSX-R750
2020 Suzuki GSX-R750
For 2020, the Suzuki GSX-R750 sportbike is available in Pearl
Glacier White/Glass Sparkle Black or Metallic Mat Black No. 2/Glass Sparkle
Black and base MSRP is $12,499.
2020 Suzuki GSX-R1000
2020 Suzuki GSX-R1000
For 2020, the Suzuki GSX-R1000 sportbike is available in Metallic
Mat Black No. 2/Glass Sparkle Black or Pearl Glacier White/Glass Sparkle Black and
MSRP is $15,599.
For 2020, the Suzuki GSX-R1000R track-ready sportbike is
available in Metallic Triton Blue or Glass Sparkle Black/Pearl Mira Red and base
MSRP is $17,699.
2020 Suzuki GSX-S750
2020 Suzuki GSX-S750
For 2020, the Suzuki GSX-S750 naked sportbike is available
in Metallic Mat Black No. 2 and base MSRP is $8,499.
For 2020, the Suzuki GSX-S750Z ABS naked sportbike is
available in Pearl Glacier White/Glass Sparkle Black with red accents and
wheels and base MSRP is $8,899.
2020 Suzuki GSX250R
2020 Suzuki GSX250R
For 2020, the Suzuki GSX250R entry-level sportbike is
available in Metallic Diamond Red or Pearl Glacier White/Pearl Nebular Black
and base MSRP is $4,599.
2020 Suzuki GSX250R ABS
2020 Suzuki GSX250R ABS
For 2020, the Suzuki GSX250R ABS entry-level sportbike is
available in Metallic Crystal Blue/Pearl Nebular Black and base MSRP is $4,899.
2020 Suzuki Hayabusa
2020 Suzuki Hayabusa
For 2020, the Suzuki GSX1300R Hayabusa sportbike is available in Candy Daring Red or Metallic Thunder Gray and base MSRP is $14,799.
2020 Suzuki SV650
2020 Suzuki SV650
For 2020, the Suzuki SV650 standard is available in Metallic
Mystic Silver with blue frame and wheels and base MSRP is $7,099.
It’s seldom (if ever) easy to pick a Motorcycle of the Year…not that anyone ever feels sorry for us and our “but we had to ride so many motorcycles” tale of woe. For example, we took our initial ride on the first of this model year’s crop of Contenders, the Yamaha Niken, way back in May of 2018. We can’t even remember what we had for dinner last Tuesday, but fortunately Yamaha jogged our memories of the bike by unveiling the tour-ready GT version of its three-wheeled LMW (Leaning Multi-Wheel) in April 2019.
In the interim, Royal Enfield released a pair of highly anticipated 650 twins, designed, tested and engineered at its brand-spanking-new R&D facility in England and built at one of its sprawling factories in India. Triumph showed off its truly off-road capable yet still pleasantly retro Scrambler 1200 XC and XE. Harley-Davidson, meanwhile, was creating a lot of very different noise with its LiveWire electric motorcycle, but as a 2020 model it’s not eligible for this year’s award. The rightful successor to the dearly departed V-Rod, the dragbike-inspired FXDR 114, is a 2019 contender though. At the decidedly non-dragbike-inspired end of the motorcycle spectrum, Honda, which celebrates its 60th anniversary in the U.S. this year, brought us two absolutely adorable throwback models designed to both tug at Boomer heartstrings and appeal to vintage-loving Millennials, the Monkey and the Super Cub. Indian tapped into another vein of nostalgia and good ol’ Americana with its FTR 1200 S flat-track replica, one of the best-performing American bikes we’ve ridden in a while. Meanwhile BMW managed to improve once again on its bestseller by introducing the R 1250 GS, and Suzuki did the same with its venerable V-Strom 650 XT Touring.
So no, it’s never easy. That said, one machine stood out above the rest as our pick for the 2019 Motorcycle of the Year, and not just because it’s capable of scrabbling to the top of a mountain—then carrying you and your stuff comfortably home again. Our choice, as always, goes to a machine that succeeds best at its intent and could be considered a game-changer in its category. We celebrate all new motorcycles, as they each represent the opportunity to get more people on two wheels, experiencing this great adventure we know and love. Congratulations to all the manufacturers, and thank you for keeping our passion alive!
BMW’s big GS
gets ShiftCam variable valve timing that broadens the powerband, increases fuel
efficiency and decreases emissions, a full-color TFT display, updated
electronics and a bump in displacement (and power) from 1,170 to 1,254cc, making what was already arguably one of the
best all-around motorcycles even better.
Harley-Davidson FXDR 114
2019 Harley-Davidson FXDR 114 (Photo by Kevin Wing)
The V-Rod is dead, long live
the V-Rod! Well, sort of. The newest member of the Softail family is a long,
lean power cruiser that channels the spirit of the VRSC V-Rod, with a 114ci
Milwaukee-Eight V-twin, raked-out cartridge-style USD fork, 33 degrees of lean
angle and a 240-section rear tire wrapped around a solid-disc rear wheel.
Honda Super Cub
2019 Honda Super Cub C125 ABS (Photo by Drew Ruiz)
Sixty
years ago, the original Super Cub proved that motorcycles needn’t be feared by
the masses, and this new version continues to make good on that promise, with a
4-speed semi-automatic gearbox, 244-pound wet weight, timeless styling and
modern conveniences like keyless ignition and ABS on the front brake.
The FTR 1200 S is a light, fast, agile street tracker
inspired by Indian’s championship-winning race bike. It’s also a breath of
fresh, young air in the cruiser orthodoxy that’s dominated American-made
motorcycles for decades, and features include a liquid-cooled, DOHC V-twin and
a six-axis IMU-based electronics package.
Royal Enfield 650 Twins
2019 Royal Enfield Continental GT (left) and Interceptor 650 (right)
The Interceptor 650 and Continental GT are completely new,
the first global models for India-based Royal Enfield and the first to be
designed, tested and engineered at its new facility in England. Powered by an
air/oil-cooled 648cc parallel twin, both bikes manage to evoke the simple
pleasure of riding for riding’s sake.
While we haven’t yet ridden
the 2019 version, we’ve spent many thousands of miles aboard Wee Stroms, and
this is the best-equipped one yet. With tubeless spoked wheels, locking side
cases, hand guards, a centerstand, cruise control, ABS, Easy Start and Low RPM
Assist, it’s ready to take on almost any adventure for just $9,999.
Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC/XE
2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE (Photo by Kingdom Creative)
Most modern scramblers talk the talk, but don’t walk the
walk of off-road capability. Enter the Scrambler 1200, a full-on adventure bike
with minimalist, retro styling—and a 21-inch front, nearly 10 inches of Öhlins
suspension travel on the up-spec XE model, multiple riding modes, switchable
ABS and traction control.
They’re a bold, groundbreaking move from Yamaha, and they nearly snagged our top honor. The Niken and Niken GT, based around the Tracer 900—a fantastic bike in its own right—work surprisingly well, with ridiculous front-end grip that must be experienced to be believed and that lovely 847cc in-line triple at their hearts.
And the winner is….
KTM 790 Adventure
2019 KTM 790 Adventure (Photo by Sebas Romero & Marco Campelli)
It’s no secret that adventure
bikes are exploding in popularity, as riders discover the utility and versatility
of their combination of upright seating position, decent ground clearance and
suspension travel, wind protection, the ability to carry luggage and, to
varying degrees, venture off-pavement. ADV bikes have been getting increasingly
bloated, however, bigger, more powerful—and heavier—each model year. Hard-core
ADV-ers have been clamoring for years, begging for a bike that returns
adventure riding to its truly adventurous roots. Something lightweight and
trail-capable, yet with enough elemental protection, power and luggage capacity
to comfortably travel cross-country, and modern fuel injection and electronic
rider aids wouldn’t hurt.
At long last, KTM answered
the call, and what an answer it is. The 790 Adventure and its even more
off-road-oriented R sibling manage to check all the boxes: light weight at a
claimed 417 pounds dry, a state-of-the-art 799cc liquid-cooled, DOHC LC8
parallel twin that produces a claimed 95 horsepower and 65.6 lb-ft of torque
delivered low in the rev range for optimum grunt, and spoked tubeless wheels in
21-inch front/18-inch rear sizes. The standard, more touring-oriented model has
a still-respectable 7.9 inches of travel from its WP Apex suspension and a
fairly accessible, adjustable seat height of 32.7/33.5 inches. Multiple riding
modes (Street, Offroad and Rain) adjust throttle response and lean-angle
sensitive Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC) settings, and power reaches the
rear wheel by way of an assist-and-slipper clutch, a 6-speed transmission and
chain final drive. The more off-road-oriented R model gets a Rally ride mode,
fully adjustable WP Xplor suspension with 9.4 inches of travel and a 34.6-inch
rally-style seat.
2019 KTM 790 Adventure (left and right) and 790 Adventure R (center) (Photo by Sebas Romero & Marco Campelli)
A defining characteristic of
the 790 Adventure is its rally racer-inspired, 5.3-gallon horseshoe-shaped gas
tank, which keeps the bike’s center of gravity low, creates less bulk between
the knees for stand-up riding and makes air filter, battery and fuse access
easy, plus it does double-duty as engine protection in case of a tip-over.
On paper the 790 Adventure is
impressive, and riding it is confirmation; the seat is flat, spacious and
comfortable, the wide handlebar is six-position adjustable and the long-travel
suspension soaks up road irregularities at high and low speeds. Bosch 9.1 MP
cornering ABS backs up powerful brakes and many useful features are standard,
such as an aluminum skid plate, a 12V dash socket and an underseat USB port.
Cruise control, a centerstand, a quickshifter, heated grips and TPMS are
optional.
At long last, the empty slot
between a street-legal enduro and an open-class ADV tourer has been filled, and
that sound you hear is the cheering of all those riders looking for a bike to
rule both mountain and highway.
Congratulations KTM, for the 2019 790 Adventure, Rider’s Motorcycle of the Year!
The Honda CB500X is back with more off-road chops for 2019, including a 19-inch front wheel in place of the old 17. (Photos by Drew Ruiz)
For reasons that remain a mystery, Honda waited until the 2016 model year and the introduction of its very capable CRF1000L Africa Twin to get serious about joining the adventure bike party. Sure, there were short-lived tryouts late in the last century (e.g., the original Africa Twin, Transalps and NX650 models), but these were well ahead of the explosion in ADV-bike understanding and popularity, and the 1998-2013 semi-ADV Varadero was never brought to the U.S.
But just prior to the new Africa Twin, Honda dipped a toe in the ADV pond by calling its ruggedly styled new-for-2013 CB500X an “adventure sport” motorcycle, and despite its 17-inch wheels at both ends and 4.7/5.5-inch suspension travel, quite a few riders took that description at Honda’s word.
Slightly increased suspension travel and a beefier shock in back help allow the CB500X to tackle rougher sections reasonably well.
Subsequently our March 2014 issue tour test to Tombstone, Arizona, included some dirt roads, where the CB500X’s light weight and decent ground clearance helped it do OK (absent deep sand or ruts). The bike’s lower price and seat height has since endeared it to beginning and smaller riders, some of whom want to sample the ADV experience without spending a lot of money—call them the “Adventure Curious.”
The CB500X’s ADV role got a boost when a UK-based outfit called Rally Raid Products created an “adventure kit” for it that includes spoked tubeless wheels with a 19-inch front, longer travel suspension, an ABS cutout switch, taller handlebars and more, and sold lots of them.
For this 5-foot-10-inch rider, standing up requires bent knees to reach the handlebar, which is higher for 2019 but not by much.
Honda has been paying attention to all of this, of course, the result of which is a new 2019 CB500X that incorporates several updates to make it more adventure capable as well as some solid upgrades to its performance and user friendliness. Chief among them is a new 19-inch front wheel that improves bump absorption, front-end feel off-road and high-speed handling, and longer suspension travel (up 0.4-inch front and rear, with an upgraded shock from its larger sportbikes) that reduces bottoming and increases ground clearance.
Unfortunately, seat height is up 0.8-inch as a result, so Honda has narrowed the seat front to make the ground an easier reach–with my 29-inch inseam I can still plant the balls of my feet on the ground. Steering rake and wheelbase are slightly longer for more stability, yet the bike’s turning radius is 8 inches smaller, and new 7-spoke cast wheels are shod with Dunlop Trailmax Mixtour tires that have an aggressive tread pattern and deep grooves.
Stock tires are new Dunlop Trailmax Mixtours, a 90/10 on/off-road radial with aggressive tread for dirt roads and good grip on-road. Jonathan Livingston approves of the bike’s refreshed styling, too.
At 471cc the CB500X twin is in that size and price sweet spot that makes it both a great ride for beginners and a nice first or second bike for commuting and short trips. There’s power aplenty for most riding, with a screaming 8,200-rpm redline and a flat torque curve that makes it very responsive throughout most of the powerband. Grabbing a handful of throttle in top gear on the interstate doesn’t inspire much urge without a downshift, but the bike cruises along nicely at 75 mph with little vibration and (based on our 2013 model test) should get great fuel economy.
Changes to the parallel-twin engine for 2019 (which also apply to the CB500R and CB500F) like a new intake tract design, fuel injectors, valve timing and muffler give it a claimed 3-4 percent more midrange power and a racier exhaust note, and help it meet looming Euro 5 emissions regs. More dogs on the transmission gears improve shifting, and a new assist-and-slipper clutch reduces lever effort by 45 percent, adapts to the load for better hookup under heavy acceleration and reduces engine braking when downshifting.
Updates to the liquid-cooled, 471cc DOHC parallel twin boost midrange power and improve power delivery, and it gets an improved transmission with assist-and-slipper clutch.
Although the Grand Prix Red CB500X can be had with ABS, that’s it for electronic rider aids, and the optional ABS is not switchable (but the fuse box and ABS fuses are readily accessible under the locking seat). For 2019 the bike gets an adjustable brake lever, a revised hydraulic ratio for the rear brake and upgraded ABS modulators that improve braking in low-traction situations (on the ABS version).
In the cockpit there’s a new tapered handlebar for ADV looks that is slightly (0.3 inch) higher and rubber-mounted to minimize vibes; a 0.8-inch taller, two-position windscreen and a new full-featured LCD display with a larger screen and thinner bezel that includes gear and adjustable upshift indicators. The CB500X also looks more adventure-y thanks to a restyled fuel tank, all-LED lighting and a new shroud design that directs radiator heat away from the rider’s legs.
Handlebar and windscreen are both taller for 2019, and the CB500X gets a larger new LCD display.
Besides weight, displacement and cost, the chief difference between the CB500X and its 300- and 650-class ADV bike competitors is probably ergonomic. Those bikes have genuinely sit-up riding positions with tall handlebars and lowish footpegs, and though it’s closer to them now the X still retains some street bike feel, particularly for larger riders.
The bar is taller for 2019 but it’s still low by ADV standards, and the footpegs are a bit high, so it takes more effort to stand up, and standing up off-road creates a long reach to the grips. On the other hand, that wide handlebar and more tucked-in seating position works even better on the pavement now, and the upgrades to steering, suspension and brakes as well as the additional power make the bike serious fun on a twisty road. Wind protection from the taller screen is quite good, and vibration can only be felt in the grips and footpegs at higher rpm.
For the press ride Honda equipped the bikes with Bridgestone Battlax Adventurecross AX41 knobbies, just one of many good ADV tire choices enabled by the larger front wheel.
Honda set up a brilliant ride for the press in the mountains around Julian, California, with a mix of dirt and pavement that showed off the bike’s capabilities very well. Rather than the stock Dunlops, Honda hedged its bets by equipping the bikes with Bridgestone Battlax Adventurecross AX41 tires, an aggressive ADV knobby that works surprisingly well on the street and provided reassuring traction on the dirt bits.
Clutch pull and shifting are indeed butter now, and with the slipper clutch, more linear power delivery and new ABS and brake settings the bike is quite easy to control on loose surfaces and stops hard when needed. Although damping settings are fixed, spring preload is adjustable at both ends, and other than some rear tire chatter when accelerating over washboard the suspension performs quite well for a bike in this price range. It was a warm day yet I didn’t notice any engine heat, and though the new display suffers from glare when the sun is directly behind it is otherwise highly functional.
Revised ergonomics are fine for smaller statured riders off-road, and work especially well on the street.
The accessories list for the CB500X includes heated grips, a centerstand, locking panniers, hand guards, a rear carrier and more, and outfits like Rally Raid will continue to carry ADV upgrades for the new bike as well as for previous model years. At 433 pounds gassed and ready to ride, weight-wise the ABS version is right in between the 300- and 650-class ADV bikes, and the CB500X’s seat is still lower than the 650-and-larger machines, so it’s a good choice for someone who wants interstate touring capability in a smaller, more affordable machine that is also ready for the adventure curious.
Chassis Frame: Diamond-shaped tubular-steel w/ engine as stressed member, box-section steel swingarm Wheelbase: 56.9 in. Rake/Trail: 27.5 degrees/4.3 in. Seat Height: 32.7 in. Suspension, Front: 41mm stanchions, adj. for spring preload, 5.3-in. travel Rear: Pro-Link single shock, adj. for spring preload, 5.9-in. travel Brakes, Front: 320mm disc w/ 2-piston floating caliper & ABS (as tested) Rear: 240mm disc w/ 1-piston floating caliper & ABS (as tested) Wheels, Front: Cast, 2.50 x 19 in. Rear: Cast, 4.50 x 17 in. Tires, Front: 110/80-HR19 Rear: 160/60-HR17 Wet Weight: 433 lbs. (as tested) Load Capacity: 383 lbs. (as tested) GVWR: 816 lbs.
Performance Fuel Capacity: 4.6 gals., last 0.7 gal. warning light on MPG: 87 AKI min. (low/avg/high) NA Estimated Range: NA Indicated RPM at 60 MPH: 4,750
Honda CB500X accessories include a centerstand, locking panniers, hand guards, tank pads, a light bar, tank bag and heated grips.The single 310mm floating front wave rotor and 2-piston caliper provide good stopping power up front.Larger front wheel and additional suspension travel raised seat height, so Honda narrowed it in front to make it easier for those of us shorter of leg to reach the ground.
This handy guide includes all new or significantly updated street-legal motorcycles for the 2020 model year. Organized in alphabetical order by manufacturer, it includes photos and links to details or, when available, first rides and road test reviews about each bike. This guide is updated regularly as more new/updated models are announced, and when we’ve had a chance to ride them and report our impressions.
Receiving updates similar to those that other models in the
R family received for 2019, the BMW R 1250 R roadster gets a larger 1,254cc
boxer twin with ShiftCam variable valve timing and valve stroke and updates to
its electronics package. It also gets a mild style refresh with a TFT display,
a DRL option for the halogen headlight and new color options. Although originally
announced as a 2019 model, the R 1250 R didn’t make it to the U.S. in time. BMW
says it will be available as a 2020 model with an MSRP starting at $14,995.
Receiving updates similar to those that other models in the
R family received for 2019, the BMW R 1250 R roadster gets a larger 1,254cc
boxer twin with ShiftCam variable valve timing and valve stroke and updates to
its electronics package. The RS also gets a style refresh that drops the
asymmetrical, winking look of the S 1000 RR in favor of a sporty twin-LED
headlight assembly, and an LED DRL (daytime running light) is an option.
Although announced as a 2019 model, the R 1250 RS didn’t make it to the U.S. in
time. BMW says it will be available as a 2020 model with an MSRP starting at
$15,695.
More power (205 hp), less weight (434 lbs), updated
technology and a new up-spec Motorsport version. The 2020 BMW S 1000 RR is at
the pointy end of the sportbike spear. Pricing starts at $16,995 and bikes will
be in dealerships in summer 2019.
Harley-Davidson’s new LiveWire electric motorcycle is seriously sporty, shockingly fast and whisper-quiet–everything a typical Harley isn’t. And that’s just the way Milwaukee wants it. It’s propelled by a liquid-cooled electric motor that makes a claimed 105 horsepower and 86 lb-ft of torque, drawing power from a 15.5 kWh battery that offers, according to H-D, a range of 146 miles in the city and 95 miles of combined stop-and-go and highway riding. Single-speed transmission offers twist-and-go convenience, and styling, ergonomics and components are the sportiest offered on any Harley-Davidson. MSRP starts at $29,799.
The 2020 Suzuki Katana features styling cues that pay direct homage to the 1981 original, and it’s built around the potent GSX-S1000 999cc inline-four. It features ABS, traction control, Easy Start and Low RPM Assist, as well as a twin-spar aluminum frame, braced superbike-style swingarm, KYB suspension, dual front Brembo monoblock four-piston calipers, 310mm floating rotors and a model-specific LCD panel. We got a chance to ride the new Katana in Japan last March, but pricing and availability are TBD.
Announced in the fall of 2018, we’re still waiting to see the
new Ténéré 700 (T7, for short) in the flesh–Yamaha says it will be coming to
the U.S. in the second half of 2020 as a 2021 model. We know it will be
powered by the 689cc CP2 parallel twin used in the MT-07, housed in a new
tubular steel double-cradle frame. Other details include a 62.6-inch wheelbase,
9.5 inches of ground clearance, a fully adjustable USD 43mm fork with 8.3
inches of travel and a remote preload-adjustable rear shock with 7.9 inches of
travel.
Yamaha has updated its flagship sportbikes, the YZF-R1 and the track-ready YZF-R1M, for 2020, with both featuring refinements to their CP4 crossplane crankshaft engines, an augmented electronic rider aids package, enhanced suspension and redesigned bodywork. MSRP is $17,300 for the YZF-R1 and $26,099 for the YZF-R1M (the latter is available in limited quantities through Yamaha’s online reservation system).
The first new model from Zero Motorcycles since 2016, the 2020 SR/F’s streetfighter look and steel trellis frame blur the styling lines between gas and electric motorcycles. Powered by a new ZF75-10 IPM (Interior Permanent Magnet) motor and ZF14.4 lithium-ion battery, it delivers a claimed 140 lb-ft of torque and 110 horsepower. It also features Bosch’s Motorcycle Stability Control System and Zero’s new Cypher III operating system. Pricing starts at $18,995.
Last August we took delivery of a 2018 Suzuki V-Strom 1000XT ($13,299), with the XT identifying it as slightly tarted up with tubeless spoked wheels and a Renthal Fat Bar handlebar, for just $300 over the base model. We put it into a comparison test with its ’lil brother, the V-Strom 650XT, and the decision was very close, but the 1000’s extra power and superior suspension and brakes (including cornering ABS) beat out the 650’s lower weight and seat height and more agile handling (see Rider, November 2018 or ridermagazine.com).
Our 1000XT was outfitted with some useful Suzuki accessories, including side cases (29-liter left, 26-liter right), a 55-liter top case, a 15-liter ring lock tank bag, an accessory bar and a centerstand, for an as-tested price of $15,712. For 2019, the XT has been replaced by the XT Adventure ($15,299), which includes the accessory bar, centerstand, heated grips and 37-liter aluminum panniers, and it comes in a sweet Pearl Vigor Blue/Pearl Glacier White paint scheme with matching blue rims.
After our comparison test, contributor Ken Lee loaded up the Strom and did a 1,400-mile, two-up tour with his wife around California’s Sierra Nevada (see Rider, May 2019 or ridermagazine.com). Then he did a solo 800-mile freeway blast up to Oregon and back. Since then we’ve used the Strom primarily for commuting and day rides. We’ve logged 4,253 miles and averaged 38.4 mpg (low 32.3, high 47.6), for an estimated range of 204 miles.
The V-Strom has been a solid workhorse and our complaints are few. The accessory tank bag doesn’t snap into its ring lock like it should, so we have to open the bag, put our hand on top of the ring and push hard to make it lock—a hassle when the bag is full of gear. And on long trips we’ve wished for cruise control, which ought to be standard on touring motorcycles in this price range. Otherwise, though, the V-Strom gets high marks for competence, dependability, value and versatility, whether it’s used as a commuter, sport-touring bike or 80/20 adventure tourer.
Rider magazine traveled to Morocco to test the new KTM 790 Adventure and 790 Adventure R. (Photo by Sebas Romero)
KTM’s all-new 2019 790 Adventure and 790 Adventure R are middleweight ADV bikes that are powered by a 95-hp, 799cc parallel twin, weigh just 417 lbs dry and are highly capable off-road. The 790 Adventure is aimed at general adventure-touring enthusiasts while the up-spec 790 Adventure R is aimed at more demanding off-road riders. Rider magazine tested them both in Morocco. Click on the player below to watch our video review, or the link below to read our full evaluation.
Is this the perfect commuter? The Honda NC750X has a lot going for it: upright, comfortable seating, decent elemental protection, a user-friendly personality and, of course, a locking “frunk!” Photos by Kevin Wing.
I’m just going to come right out and say it: Honda’s NC750X is the best commuter bike out there right now. Don’t worry, I’m wearing my flame-retardant suit and a fire extinguisher is standing by. But I can also back up my bold claim, if you’ll bear with me.
When the original NC700X debuted in 2012, we proclaimed it “the bike many of you have been asking for…and more” (Rider, November 2012 and here). Base price was just $6,999, with the (then) newfangled DCT automatic ABS version coming in at $8,999, and it checked all the boxes: excellent fuel economy, accessible size, appealing ADV styling, comfortable seating, surprisingly decent handling and a locking storage compartment large enough to hold a full-face helmet.
Smooth, liquid-cooled parallel twin is canted forward 55 degrees for a low center of gravity.
In 2014 the European market got a revised model, its 670cc parallel twin bored out to 745cc and dubbed the NC750X…but here in the States we were stuck with the 700 until last year, when Honda finally dropped it in favor of the 750.
So now we have the NC750X, which has matured into its role as a class-bending, do-it-all machine that hits the sweet spot in terms of price, functionality, style and fun. Base price is now $7,999 for the six-speed manual with LED head- and taillights and colorful LCD instrument, with the DCT ABS model, now featuring Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC, a.k.a. traction control), priced at $8,699.
Footpegs are positioned directly under the rider, making standing up easy. Reach to the bars is comfortable and natural. Rider shown is 5 feet 9 inches tall.
Honda has nearly perfected its three-mode (Drive, Sport and manual) DCT dual-clutch automatic transmission, and honestly for just $700 and roughly 30 extra pounds the DCT model is the way to go, especially since it’s the only way to get the HSTC and combined ABS, which applies front brake when the rear is applied as well as preventing lock-up. But EIC Tuttle must think I’m tough, so a base model, bone stock 2018 NC750X is what I tested, logging more than 1,400 commuting, canyon carving and errand-running miles.
It’s today’s everybike: an attractive, fuel-efficient, do-it-all commuter, canyon carver and even light tourer, at a great price.
On paper the NC750X is nearly identical to its predecessor, with the primary difference being the squarer bore and stroke (77 x 80mm vs. 73 x 80), which adds a few ponies and ups the rev ceiling to 7,500. The liquid-cooled, dual-counterbalanced, 270-degree, SOHC parallel twin cranks out power well into the midrange. Not to say it’ll ripple the blacktop on a holeshot, but it’s enough for a one-up rider to stay interested on a weekend fling through the twisties, and despite a surprisingly aggressive snarl it pulses pleasantly with no buzzy vibes. It’s also impressively fuel-efficient. On a mixture of high-speed (read: 75-80 mph) freeways and surface streets, I averaged nearly 69 mpg over 1,400 miles, meaning I was filling up the 3.7-gallon tank with regular every 250 miles or so.
Backlit LCD instrument includes bar tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, clock and switchable tripmeters/odometer and fuel consumption.
The other major upgrade is the two-level HSTC, available only on the DCT ABS model, that allows the rider to choose between low intervention that allows some rear wheel spin (on gravel or dirt, for example) or high intervention for slippery roads. On our test bike my hands and right foot substituted for traction control and ABS, and fortunately the NC750X is easy and forgiving to ride.
That “just enough” power (51 peak horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 48 lb-ft of torque at 4,700 per the Jett Tuning dyno) never feels out of control and throttle response is smooth. A single 320mm wave-style front brake disc necessitates “combined” braking during anything resembling sporty riding, but I’m in the habit of using both front and rear anyway and found brake performance to be more than adequate for my one-up riding habits. As an added bonus, the front brake lever is now adjustable!
Dyno results on the 2018 Honda NC750X, as tested on the Jett Tuning dyno.
Now take a few steps back; at 478 pounds ready to ride the NC750X is essentially a three-quarter-size ADV bike, and this is a major component of its class-bending capabilities. The rider is perched on a 32.7-inch seat, which is comfortable enough for long commutes or day rides, narrow enough for 29-inch-inseam legs to reach the ground and high enough to allow an excellent view of traffic. Reach to the handlebar is also comfortable, and it’s not so wide as to require a yoga pose for full-lock turns. The windscreen does a good job of deflecting air and the LCD instrument is easy to read even in direct sunlight.
Handling potholes, railroad tracks and other pavement irregularities are a 41mm non-adjustable fork with 5.4 inches of travel, and a Pro-Link rear shock with spanner-adjustable preload and 5.9 inches of travel. For just about any type of “normal” riding, including gravel roads and tackling the twisties, I found the suspension to be surprisingly good; it only felt out of sorts when hitting hard bumps while leaned over in a turn.
The trade-off for the convenient frunk is the not-so-convenient fuel filler under the rear seat. Hard saddlebags and a rear trunk are Honda accessories.
Lastly, while it’s easy for us grizzled gearheads to become jaded about styling, I must mention that my NC750X tester received numerous compliments from strangers, including one sportbike rider at my gym and a car full of young people who cruised slowly past and called out, “Rad bike!” I’ll admit, it felt good!
Speaking of styling, other testers have complained about having to remove luggage like a tail bag to use the NC’s unorthodox fuel filler under the passenger seat, but there’s an upside: a waterproof 22-liter locking front trunk (endearingly known as the “frunk”), so as a commuter/errand-runner I never found it to be an issue.
Not only does the frunk hold a full-face helmet, I managed to stuff all manner of–well, stuff–in there. Groceries, a gym bag, my 13-inch laptop in a protective sleeve, extra gloves and layers, a combination of the above…you’d be surprised at what you can shove inside. And if you really need more space or want to go touring, Honda sells accessory hard saddlebags and a rear trunk. I only wish my tester’s frunk was fitted with the optional 12V accessory outlet.
All hail the frunk! Locking, waterproof “frunk” easily held my full-face modular helmet when parked, and all manner of items in between.
Going back to our original 2012 review, I think we can amend our statement to say the updated NC750X is the motorcycle many riders–and soon-to-be riders—have been waiting for. It’s a bike built for today’s motorcyclist: affordable, fuel efficient, with integrated storage and available DCT, and ready to do it all, from commuting to canyon carving to touring. And it looks good doing it.
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