Surprise, surprise, the Italians have once again cast their vote for an Italian motorcycle as the most beautiful at last week’s EICMA motorcycle show in Milan.
Ducati’s Streetfighter V4 took out the award voted by visitors to the show, making it five wins in the past seven years, or 10 in 14 years.
Fellow Italian company MV Agusta spoilt the run last year when the Brutale 1000 Serie Oro took out the popular-vote title.
Ducati’s big victory run started in 2013 with the Monster 1200 S, followed by the Scrambler, Diavel and SuperSport. In 2012, it was the MV Agusta Rivale 800.
You get the picture!
Italian bikes win at an Italian show even though it is the biggest motorcycle show in the world and every manufacturer is represented.
Similarly, BMW usually wins the title at the biennial Intermot show in Cologne.
Now it’s your turn to vote.
Cast your vote below for the most beautiful bike of the EICMA show.
We have included production and concept bikes and listed them in alphabetic order.
The carbon AMB 001 weighs just 180kg and is powered by a turbocharged V-twin engine delivering 180 horsepower.
It is substantially different from their Super Sport 100 model which brought the company back to life in 2016. In fact, it looks much more like a “supersport” model than this does.
Brough Superior SS100
It’s not unusual for motorcycle and car companies to get together to build a motorcycle.
Apart from companies such as Honda and BMW that build both, we had the short-lived collaboration between MV Agusta and Mercedes AMG that spawned the “solarbeam” in 2015.
Mercedes-AMG solarbeam MV Agusta F3
Like the “solarbeam”, this collaborative bike will be a limited-edition model and very expensive.
Aston Martin Chief Creative Officer Marek Reichman the bike is “what we believe a cutting-edge motorcycle should be”.
“In addition to applying the skills we have developed for cars such as the ground breaking Aston Martin Valkyrie, we have also been able to bring our special expertise in the traditional craft techniques to this project,” he said.
Meeting stringent European emissions regulations has not reduced output from the updated 2020 Yamaha MT-07 Tracer.
The 689cc CP2 twin is updated with optimised fuel injection and ignition settings, revised air intake, optimised exhaust settings and a modified exhaust.
Cleverly the Japanese meet Euro5 without dropping any power.
The Japanese company has unveiled the new Tracer ahead of the EICMA motorcycle show in Milan tonight (5 November 2019).
Tracer comfort
It also comes with a more aggressive styling, especially in the front end.
Suspension has been upgraded with 41mm cartridge-type forks with preload and rebound damping adjustment and preload and rebound-adjustment is available on the rear shock.
Its touring ability gets a boost with a more comfortable contoured dual seat and new aerodynamic screen that can be adjusted over 60mm with one hand.
The handguards now offer more protection and have inbuilt compact LED indicators while the handlebars are 34mm wider.
It will be available in Icon Grey, Sonic Grey, or Phantom Blue.
There is no word on arrival in Australia yet, although it is expected to arrive at the end of the first quarter of 2020.
The current model costs $12,299 plus on-road costs.
Yamaha has painted their updated FJR1300 an attractive black and gold with gold wheels and plenty of black finishes was well as adding two more models.
The Japanese company has unveiled the models ahead of the EICMA motorcycle show in Milan tonight (5 November 2019).
The new models are the FJR1300AS and FJR1300 AE Ultimate Edition that both come with an electronically-adjustable high screen and wind deflectors, plus an adjustable seat, cowl and handlebars.
They are laden with features such as cruise, traction control, heated grips, 12V socket and adaptive cornering lights.
These models also come with panniers.
Only the AS model gets electronic clutch-less gear shift system.
The 1298cc inline four has also been updated to meet Euro 5 regulations.
There is no word on arrival in Australia nor pricing. The current FJR1300 costs $24,9999 (plus on-road costs) and $3000 more for the electronic suspension version.
KTM has released a video of the 1290 Super Duke R it will reveal tomorrow night (5 November 2019) at the EICMAmotorcycle show in Milan, possibly with blind spot alert and adaptive cruise control.
It will be one of a host of other new models form the Austrian manufacturer.
What we do now is the KTM 1290 Super Duke R will feature a new chassis using the engine as a stressed member of the frame with a bolted-on rear sub-frame.
There is also a new smoked screen, restyled fuel tank, upgraded seat and re-routed exhaust for a larger radiator.
That is presumably to increase water cooling and reduce emissions without losing horsepower.
In fact, some expect horsepower will be boosted from the 1301cc V-twin, liquid-cooled engine’s current 130kW output.
It will, of course, come with high-spec components such as KTM-owned WP suspension and Brembo brakes.
We will have all the news from ECMA tomorrow night, so stay tuned to your phone, computer or tablet!
Aston Martin will spread its wings on a motorcycle for the first time when Brough Superior reveal a new motorcycle at the EICMA motorcycle show in Milan, next week.
So far all we have is the above basic artist doodle from the English auto makers.
However, we can see that it is substantially different from their Super Sport 100 model which brought the company back to life in 2016. In fact, it looks much more like a “supersport” model than this does.
Brough Superior SS100
It’s not unusual for motorcycle and car companies to get together to build a motorcycle.
Apart from companies such as Honda and BMW that build both, we had the short-lived collaboration between MV Agusta and Mercedes AMG that spawned the “solarbeam” in 2015.
Mercedes-AMG solarbeam MV Agusta F3
Like the “solarbeam”, this collaborative bike will be a limited-edition model and should be quite expensive.
It will be unveiled on 5 November 2019.
Aston/Brought release
Here is he official joint release from Aston Martin and Brough:
Brough Superior, the eponymous performance motorcycle brand created by George Brough in 1919 and resurrected by enthusiasts long after his death is, like Aston Martin, a luxury brand with great heritage. Both Brough Superior and Aston Martin place huge importance on developing a brand that customers are proud to be part of and products that strike the perfect balance between performance and design.
Both masters of craftsmanship who use the finest materials to breathe life into their designs, as independent companies they also revel in their ability to offer bespoke design and engineering solutions so a collaboration between the two brands is virtually guaranteed to produce something very special.
The first new motorcycle is the combined vision of Aston Martin Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer Marek Reichman and Brough Superior CEO Thierry Henriette, who are both motorcycle enthusiasts.
Reichman said: “This is a fascinating and very popular project for myself and my team. The opportunity to collaborate with Brough Superior has given us the chance to bring our own unique views on how beauty and engineering can combine to create a highly emotive piece of vehicle design. We’re excited about the end result and can’t wait to see the reaction the motorcycle receives when it is revealed next year.”
Henriette commented: “Aston Martin and Brough Superior are two luxury automotive manufacturers sharing the same passion for exclusive design and performance, the idea of developing a motorcycle in a frame of a close partnership came naturally.”
It’s motorcycle show season with a host of new 2020 models soon to be revealed at the biggest motorcycle show on the planet, EICMA, in Milan in November and the Tokyo Motor Show starting Thursday (20 October 2019).
We expect the usual new models, updates, concepts and, of course, a host of electric motorcycles and scooters.
However, Ducati, Kawasaki and Honda will jump the queue with unveilings on Wednesday ahead of show season.
2020 bikes
Here’s our rundown on what to expect at the shows for 2020:
Ducati
Ducati Streetfighter V4
We are kickstarting with Ducati who will steal the show on Wednesday night (23 October 2019) when it reveals its 2020 models including seven new models.
Their big-ticket item is the 208hp Streetfighter V4weighing in at just 178kg dry. There may also be a Multistrada with the V4 engine.
Two other models we’ve heard of are the Multistrada 1260 S Grand Tour and a blacked-out Scrambler Icon Dark.
We may also see an updated Panigale 959.
Kawasaki
2020 Kawasaki Z-H2
On the same day, Kawasaki will unveil their naked supercharged Z H2. It will be interesting to see if it has the same power as the H2 or whether it is “retuned”.
The Ninja 400 engine is expected to be added to the baby Versys, we could see a W800 scrambler version and there could be updates to the Ninja 650 and Ninja 1000.
Rather than a new model, the big news could be confirmation of the rumours that the big green machine has gobbled up Italian icon, Bimota, for which it has historically supplied engines.
Honda
2020 Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin
Honda will also show its 2020 fleet on Wednesday, including the already revealed Honda CRF1100 Africa Twin.
Their big news will be the new CBR1000RR with a host of electronics to be competitive in the 2020 World Superbikes series.
Honda usually has some interesting concepts and the rest may just be updates of existing production models.
Triumph
Thruxton TFC
The British invasion will include a Thruxton RS to bridge the gap between the ‘R’ and the ‘TFC’ and we expect a Bobber version to join their exotic TFC range.
BMW
The Bavarian promises six new models highlighted by the reveal of the production version of their first cruiser in 15 years, the 1800cc boxer-powered R 18 (spy photos at the top of this page and below).
BMW R 18 spy photo
We also expect to see the F 850 RS based on the Concept 9cento, an updated S 1000 XR sport tourer, the new S 1000 R streetfighter and perhaps more R nineT versions.
BMW 9cento
KTM
The Austrian manufacturer has been defying the sales slump with some clever new models in recent years and should continue the trend.
We expect a new 1290 Super Duke R with winglets as this teaser video suggests.
KTM is tipped to announce a range of entry-level 490cc twin-cylinder motorcycles, a range of 890cc models and a 790 Supermoto.
Perhaps we’ll see yet more limited-edition models such as the Brutale 1000 Serie Oro to challenge Ducati Streetfighter V4 in a horsepower brawl.
RMK
RMK E2
This Finnish motorcycle company will unveil an electric motorcycle with up to 300km of range and a hub-less rear wheel housing the motor.
Suzuki
After years of teasing, we expect to see a turbo model, perhaps even a turbo Hayabusa or Katana, but probably more likely something in the mid-range engine capacity.
There will also be updates for the V-Strom 1000, new colours, new graphics and maybe a concept or two, probably electric.
Some have suggested a smaller version of the recently released Katana.
Indian
2020 Indian Challenger
The American company is expected to unveil its Challenger bagger believed to be powered by a liquid-cooled 1770cc engine called the Powerplus.
Yamaha
The R1 and R1M will have an update and we should see at least one new variant of the popular MT range.
Moto Morini
2020 Moto Morini adventure bike
The Italian manufacturer has hinted at an adventure bike with unknown engine capacity.
Moto Guzzi
The popular V85 TT adventure bike and V7 could be joined by more variants.
WP APEX suspension 74hp LC4 single – PASC slipper clutch
Arriving in Australia March 2019
The KTM 690 SMC R returns in 2019 and promises to bring the KTM Ready to Race approach to the street. A lightweight, agile, punchy single-cylinder, with premium chassis components, backed up by new performance-enhancing electronics and a lot more grunt that is now delivered via a much smoother power delivery. That’s what KTM are claiming their 690 SMC R will bring to the table when it lands in Australian showrooms from March.
2019 KTM 690 SMC R
2019 KTM 690 SMC R Features
Dynamic LC4 single-cylinder 4-stroke engine
690cc displacement
55 kW (74 hp) @ 8000rpm
73.5 Nm @ 6500 rpm
Electronic fuel injection, ride by wire, two balancer shafts
PASC slipper clutch
Fuel capacity approx – 13.5 litres
Dry weight approx – 146 kg
Six-speed transmission with Quickshifter+ for clutchless up and downshifts
Ultra lightweight chrome-molybdenum steel frame
Sharper, slimmer bodywork in the latest KISKA design
Two ride modes
Cornering ABS with advanced Supermoto ABS mode
Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC)
Die cast aluminum swingarm and linkage type rear suspension
Fully adjustable WP APEX shock absorber
Fully adjustable WP APEX 48 upside-down fork with separate damping circuits
Optional low chassis kit for 40mm lower seat height
Brembo brake system
2019 KTM 690 SMC R – Image by Rudi Schedl
Street Weapon
Powering the KTM 690 SMC R is a new generation LC4 engine, with the single-cylinder engine now dishing up 74 hp and 73.5 Nm of torque – and KTM boasting a smoother and more sophisticated power delivery than ever.
Along with improved power, torque and consumption from the updated engine, the fun now goes further with the new KTM 690 SMC R thanks to a fuel tank capacity increased by 1.5 litres to 13.5L total. The completely redesigned fuel tank also acts as a load bearing part of the chassis; stiffer in construction to help provide optimal feel and handling.
2019 KTM 690 SMC R
Fresh bodywork is sharper and slimmer than the previous model, developed alongside the latest generation of KTM offroad motorcycles to aid with easier handling. Adjustable levers feature on the rubber-mounted, lightweight tapered handlebars that can be placed in four different positions.
The new ergonomics continue with an improved seat that KTM claim increases comfort while aiding control and grip in extreme riding situations. To make the Supermoto more accessible than ever, a 40 mm seat height reduction is also possible via the official KTM PowerParts low chassis kit (standard seat height 890 mm). All this has been done while maintaining extreme lean levels with handlebar-scraping cornering ability, if the rider is up to the challenge!
2019 KTM 690 SMC R – Image by Rudi Schedl
The suspension was specially developed by WP and KTM for the 690 SMC R. Up front are fully adjustable WP APEX 48 USD forks, sprung in both legs but with separated damping in each tube; rebound handled on the right and compression on the left, with 30 clicks of adjustment available for each. The forks are mounted in forged triple clamps with an offset of 35 mm, adjustable to 33 mm.
2019 KTM 690 SMC R
Helping to put the torque on the tarmac is a fully adjustable WP APEX shock absorber connected to the single-piece cast swingarm via a linkage.
2019 KTM 690 SMC R – Image by Rudi Schedl
On the braking side of the equation a high quality Brembo four-piston radial caliper bites a 320 mm disc up front and helping to push the Bridgestone S21 rear tyre into opposite-lock corner entries is a Brembo two-piston caliper working hard on a 240 mm rear disc.
2019 KTM 690 SMC R
Getting the most from the KTM 690 SMC R’s performance in all situations is assisted by a suite of rider assistance systems. Two ride modes – Street and Sport – are joined by cornering ABS, lean angle-sensitive motorcycle traction control, motor slip regulation (MSR) and Quickshifter+ (up & down), with the familiar Supermoto ABS mode aiding rear slides backed up by front-end confidence.
Moto Guzzi’s V7 is one of the brand’s most celebrated and well-known models, with the third generation currently on offer in the form of the V7 III. Recently the 2019 Stone and Stone Dark Pack variations were updated for the new year model and presented at EICMA.
2019 Moto Guzzi V7 III Stone
The V7 III family is made up of seven versions – the Stone, Special and Racer; joined by V7 III Rough, V7 III Milano and V7 III Carbon, which introduce a series of special parts capable of giving each one a very different connotation and a unique character.
2019 Moto Guzzi V7 III Stone
V7 III Limited, made in only 500 numbered units, represents the most recent news in a range which, for 2019, offers aesthetic upgrades on the V7 III Stone, available from next spring also in the “Night Pack” variation, characterised by full LED lights and new specific stylistic details.
2019 V7 III Stone
The 2019 Model Year of the eclectic V7 III Stone forsakes any chromium detail to embrace matt black paint, paired with a saddle that has a passenger grab strap. The headlight frame is also not chrome, but black.
2019 Moto Guzzi V7 III Stone
The front mudguard is painted to match the fuel tank and the logo on the side panels has been completely renewed, as has the eagle that decorates the tank, now done in a burnished finish.
2019 Moto Guzzi V7 III Stone
The total “dark matt” look characterises the new V7 III and distinguishes it from the other versions, but that is not the only difference. V7 III Stone rolls on alloy wheels and has single circular display instrumentation. The front mudguard is further shortened to enhance the essential nature of this model.
2019 Moto Guzzi V7 III Stone
In addition to Nero Ruvido, V7 III Stone is available in two new and attractive satin finish colour schemes , Grigio Granitico and Rosso Rovente.
2019 V7 III Stone ‘Night Pack’
In 2019 the V7 III Stone will also be available in the Night Pack variation, characterised by significant styling and functional changes, the first of which is the implementation of new LED lights which ensure high lighting power for the headlight, turn indicators and taillight.
2019 Moto Guzzi V7 III Stone Night Pack
This version, aesthetically defined by the low positioning of the headlight and the instrument cluster, boasts a new rear mudguard, short and sleek, on which the brake light bracket is integrated, as well as the licence plate holder, which is also revamped.
2019 Moto Guzzi V7 III Stone Night Pack
The dedicated saddle is heat welded and enhanced by the embroidered Moto Guzzi logo. V7 III Stone Night Pack will be available in the classic Nero Ruvido livery and in the Bronzo Levigato and Blu Pungente variations. Unfortunately though, on present indications the 2019 Moto Guzzi V7 III Stone Night Pack will not be in Australia until the second half of 2019.
2019 Moto Guzzi V7 III Stone Night Pack
2019 Moto Guzzi V7 III Stone Specifications
ENGINE
Type
Air-cooled, four-stroke longitudinally mounted V-Twin, OHV, 2-valve with ally pushrods and rockers
Displacement
744cc
Bore & Stroke
80 x 74mm
Compression Ratio
N/A
Max. Power Output
38 kW (52 hp) at 6200rpm
Max. Torque
60 Nm at 4900 rpm
Oil Capacity
N/A
FUEL SYSTEM
Carburation
Weber-Marelli EFI
Fuel Tank Capacity
21 L(inc reserve)
Fuel Consumption
5.5 l/100 km
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Starter
Electric
Battery Capacity
12V 330W 14 Amph
ACG Output
N/A
DRIVETRAIN
Clutch Type
Single disc, dry with cush drive
Transmission Type
6 speed
Final Drive
Shaft
FRAME
Type
Double cradle tubular frame in ALS steel with detachable elements.
CHASSIS
Dimensions (L x H)
2185mm x 1100mm
Wheelbase
1445 mm
Caster Angle
26.4°
Trail
106 mm
Seat Height
770 mm
Ground Clearance
130 mm
Kerb Weight
209 kg
SUSPENSION
Type Front
40mm hydraulic telescopic fork, 130mm travel
Type Rear
Die cast light alloy swingarm with two shock absorbers, adjustable spring preload
KTM’s 690 Enduro R returns for 2019 with a promise of more refinement in what is designed as a dedicated long distance enduro motorcycle. Versatile enough to tackle both the road and trails, while offering an engaging and fun experience no matter what the terrain.
2019 KTM 690 Enduro R
In the new for 2019 690 Enduro R KTM engineers set out to make all the best parts even better and the 690 Enduro R is now powered by another generation of the LC4 with more horsepower and torque, an impressive 74 horsepower and 73.5 Nm, and now delivered in a more refined manner thanks to ride-by-wire technology and dual balance shafts.
2019 KTM 690 Enduro R
Sharper and slimmer, the new bodywork features a redesigned seat and enhanced ergonomics, alongside the lightweight chassis coupled with fully-adjustable WP XPLOR suspension for a competent package for experienced riders yet confidence inspiring for those new to dirt. Better still 690 Enduro R retains its sure-footed reputation for street riding – increasing versatility as daily ride.
2019 KTM 690 Enduro R
The new electronic systems on the 690 Enduro R also delivers the most from this machine in all situations. Two ride modes – Offroad and Street – produce different characteristics of throttle response and motorcycle traction control (MTC), while cornering sensitivity for the ABS and traction control also make its debut on this bike.
2019 KTM 690 Enduro R – Image by Fabian Lackner
2019 KTM 690 Enduro R Features
Dynamic LC4 single-cylinder 690cc 4-stroke engine
74 hp (55 kW) @ 8000 rpm
73.5 Nm @ 6500 rpm
Electronic fuel injection, ride by wire, two balancer shafts
PASC slipper clutch
Six-speed transmission with Quickshifter+ for clutchless up- and downshifts
13.5 litre fuel capacity
146 kg dry weight
Ultra lightweight chrome-molybdenum trellis frame
Sharper, slimmer bodywork in the style of the latest KTM competition bikes
Optional low chassis kit for 40 mm lower seat height
Two ride modes (Street, Offroad), lean angle sensitive cornering ABS
Motorcycle traction control (MTC) with advanced offroad mode
Stainless steel exhaust with catalytic converter
High-quality die cast aluminum swingarm and linkage type rear suspension
Fully adjustable WP XPLOR shock absorber
Fully adjustable WP XPLOR upside-down fork with separate damping circuits
Quality Brembo brake system
2019 KTM 690 Enduro R
74hp LC4 engine
At the heart of the 690 Enduro R is the latest version of the LC4 engine; a powerplant with origins 30 years ago in Hard Enduro KTM machines, which has since benefited from constant evolution, including experience learned from racing single-cylinder engines on and off-road in world championship competition.
The 690 Enduro R also ties into KTM’s commitment to producing high performance ‘monos’ with their distinctive character and abilities. More power and torque were logical progressions – 74hp and 73.5Nm – but this comes complete with refined delivery; improved smoothness, better response and fuel efficiency.
2019 KTM 690 Enduro R – Image by Fabian Lackner
High end chassis with WP suspension
Under the new seat and fresh bodywork – both optimised for style and better movement on the bike – is an all-new chassis. Designed to be confidence-inspiring with ease of handling, the powder coated chromium-molybdenum-steel trellis frame is joined by an enlarged fuel tank capacity of 13.5 litres (+1.5 l), offering better than ever range.
2019 KTM 690 Enduro R
Equipped with lightweight, CNC milled hubs mated to high-end 21in and 18in rims fitted with grippy and enduring Mitas E07 tires, both ends of the KTM 690 ENDURO R are fully adjustable WP XPLOR suspension, with performance akin to competition offroad bikes, while also offering strong road performance.
2019 KTM 690 Enduro R
Specially adapted from the EXC range, the WP XPLOR fork provides a split-damping system and is bolted to the main chassis’ lightweight sections of chrome-molybdenum steel tubes via highly rigid forged triple clamps. The WP XPLOR shock absorber, connected to the single-piece cast swingarm by linkage, produces a progressive suspension character and high resistance against bottoming out.
2019 KTM 690 Enduro R – Image by Fabian Lackner
Top shelf electronics
Allowing riders to get the most from the 690 Enduro R multi-terrain machine is an array of top-level electronic systems, including lean angle sensitivity braking and traction functions, and two different ride modes – Street and Offroad. These can be switched from the handlebar to provide different behavior from the throttle response and traction control systems.
2019 KTM 690 Enduro R
Offroad ABS allows rear wheel lock-up and reduced ABS on the front wheel, while motor slip regulation (MSR) is an engine brake control designed to prevent rear wheel lock-up – even on low grip surfaces – perfect for street riding. The addition of the Quickshifter+ produces clutchless up and downshifting through the six speed transmission.
