Tag Archives: Learners

Tiger Sport 660 | New learner legal adventure-tourer from Triumph

2022 Triumph Tiger Sport 660

Triumph are set to release a learner legal but fully featured adventure machine on to the Australian market during the first quarter of 2022.

2022 Triumph Tiger Sport 660

The new Triumph Tiger Sport 660 pumps out 80 horsepower in overseas markets, but in Australia Triumph have chosen to only offer a LAMS variant tuned specifically to meet our learner requirements. That means 56 horsepower at 8750 rpm from the 660 cc triple, and 62 Nm at 6250 rpm. The wet weight with a full 17.2-litre fuel tank is 206 kg.

2022 Triumph Tiger Sport 660

It might be learner legal but it is still a fairly high-spec machine in other areas and, as such, will be priced from $14,690 Ride Away.

2022 Triumph Tiger Sport 660

Showa provides the suspension, which has 150 mm of travel at both ends. The monoshock offers hydraulically assisted pre-load adjustment, while the 41 mm forks are of the SFF specification.

2022 Triumph Tiger Sport 660

Ground clearance figures have not been quoted in the press material we have been supplied but it does look modest, and something more akin to a CB500X Honda or DL650 V-Strom, rather than a more hard-core Tenere 700. Rolling on five-spoke cast alloy 17-inch rims the Tiger Sport 660 would be classified at the soft-roader end of the adventure-touring spectrum.

2022 Triumph Tiger Sport 660

Nissin provide the stoppers, twin-piston calipers and a pair of 310 mm discs up front and a 255 mm disc at the rear, backed by switchable ABS. Two riding modes are offered, Road and Rain, which tailor the throttle response and mapping of the traction control intervention to the conditions at hand.

2022 Triumph Tiger Sport 660

There are plenty of creature comforts, with a comfortable stepped seat at a height of 835 mm for the rider. An optional low seat drops that further to 810 mm. Other nice touches include an adjustable windscreen, slip-assist clutch, smartly integrated pannier mounts for the optional luggage system and full LED lighting throughout.

2022 Triumph Tiger Sport 660

A nicely finished TFT screen can provide navigation and phone functionality when paired with the optional My Triumph connectivity system.

2022 Triumph Tiger Sport 660

A two-way quick-shifter, heated grips, USB charging point and tyre pressure monitoring are all available as optional extras.

2022 Triumph Tiger Sport 660

The optional luggage system is extensive with colour-matched panniers with a combined capacity of 57-litres and a 47-litre top-box capable of swallowing two full-face helmets.

2022 Triumph Tiger Sport 660

Riders can choose between three colour schemes: the contemporary Lucerne Blue and Sapphire Black, the vibrant Korosi Red and Graphite with distinctive sporty graphics, or a minimalist Graphite and Black option. It’s a handsome looking machine in any of those hues.

2022 Triumph Tiger Sport 660

At an almost 15k price point it might be a hard sell in the LAMS category, but it is likely to prove the most comfortable grown up touring option in the learner legal segment. And for some, that will make it well worth the asking price.

2022 Triumph Tiger Sport 660

2022 Triumph Tiger Sport 660 Specifications

2022 Triumph Tiger Sport 660 Specifications
Type 660cc Liquid-cooled, 12 valve, DOHC, inline 3-cylinder, 240° firing order
Bore / Stoke 74.04 mm x  51.1 mm
Compression 11.95:1
LAMS maximum power 56.3 PS / 55.5 hp (41.5 kW) at 8750 rpm 
LAMS maximum torque 62 Nm at 6250 rpm
Final Drive X-ring chain
Clutch Wet, multi-plate, slip & assist
Gearbox Six-speed
Frame Tubular steel perimeter frame
Swingarm Twin-sided, fabricated steel 
Front Wheel Cast aluminium, 17 x 3.5-inch
Rear Wheel Cast aluminium, 17 x 5.5-inch
Front Tyre 120/70 ZR 17 (58W)
Rear Tyre 180/55 ZR 17 (73W)
Front Suspension Showa 41mm upside down separate function cartridge forks, 150mm wheel travel
Rear Suspension Showa monoshock RSU, with remote hydraulic preload adjustment, 150mm wheel travel
Front Brakes Nissin twin-piston sliding calipers, twin 310mm discs, ABS
Rear Brakes Nissin single-piston sliding caliper, single 255mm disc, ABS
Instruments Multi-function instruments with colour TFT screen
Length 2071 mm
Width (Handlebars) 834 mm
Height Without Mirrors 1398 mm / 1315 mm (high / low screen position)
Seat Height 83 5mm
Wheelbase 1418 mm
Rake / Trail 23.1º 97.1 mm
Wet weight 206kg
Fuel Tank Capacity 17.2 litres
Fuel Consumption 4.5 litres / 100 km
Service interval 10,000 miles (16,000km) / 12 months
Available Q1 2022
RRP $14,690 RIde Away
2022 Triumph Tiger Sport 660
2022 Triumph Tiger Sport 660
2022 Triumph Tiger Sport 660

Source: MCNews.com.au

CFMOTO 650GT Review | Motorcycle Test

CFMOTO 650GT Review

By Wayne Vickers, Images by RBMotoLens


Having recently relishing the chance to throw a leg over the amazing value 650NK (review here), I had no hesitation when the opportunity arose to test the touring version – CFMOTO’s 650GT. This is essentially the full fairing version of that NK, it remains LAMS certified and very learner friendly.

CFMoto's 650 GT is the touring variant of their popular LAMS mid-capacity machines
CFMoto’s 650 GT is the touring variant of their popular LAMS mid-capacity machines

We get different styling (from Kiska again), which isn’t as hard edged as the naked version and I must admit looks pretty good from some angles, while the front ¾ in particular grew on me. It’s obviously been designed for and with panniers in mind and looks good with them fitted in the pics I’ve seen – however my test bike didn’t have luggage. The pannier set-up is available for $900.95 including brackets.

The 650GT shares the 650 cc parallel-twin engine with the NK, putting out an identical 41.5 kW (55 hp) of power and 62 Nm of torque. The tune feels the same to me and to be honest there’s no reason to change it.

The runs full fairings and an adjustable screen, bringing dry weight up to 213 kg
The runs full fairings and an adjustable screen, bringing dry weight up to 213 kg

It shares the same user-friendly low 795 mm seat height too, but gets extra weather protection, a larger 19-litre tank and more generous seating which does add a few kilos, tipping the scales at 213 kg dry.

That weight does take the performance edge off ever so slightly compared to the NK, which CFMOTO claim weighs in at 193 kg, but I still found myself developing plenty of grins.

An additional 20kg of weight does impact performance
An additional 20kg of weight over the NK does impact performance

It’s actually a pretty bloody good thing – and the extra fuel capacity and consumption will take you comfortably past the 300 km mark, so it ticks the mile hauler box too.

Ssurprisingly, I felt the suspension (which is also shared between the two), was better suited to this version. That little bit of extra weight taking what I felt was a little too firm on the NK into a much better all around proposition. It still struggles a bit with major hits, but felt noticeably more composed than its naked sibling.

Suspension on the 650 GT felt more sorted, which may play into the tall bars and upright seating position
Suspension on the 650 GT felt more sorted, which may play into the tall bars and upright seating position

That could also have been helped by the slightly more upright riding position due to the higher bars, which translates into a particularly comfortable ride. The seat is plenty comfortable too and offers a little more room to move around, while the pillion seat is also a much more practical set-up than the NK.

On the go, it’s got some cornering ability and I was pleasantly surprised at how well balanced the 650 GT felt at full lean. The bike tips in quite well and holds a line better than it ought to. I was easily able to get it to the edge of the tyre and the GT felt perfectly composed doing so.

The CFMoto 650 GT also feels well balanced at full lean
The CFMoto 650 GT feels well balanced at full lean

Sure, you have to wring the neck of the little twin to get anything like a genuinely sporty performance out of it – and one uphill section on the photo shoot reminded me that it’s no stump puller. But it’s totally fit for purpose and not pretending to be something it’s not.

Around the four to five grand rpm mark it is perfectly happy, in fact I’d say the sweet spot is somewhere between four and eight thousand revs. 

Gear ratios are well sorted on the CFMoto 650 GT
Gear ratios are well sorted on the CFMoto 650 GT, with good throttle feel

There’s no need to go any higher and the gear ratios are nicely spaced to keep you well within that zone too. The fuelling is fine and it has the same good throttle feel as its NK sibling.

That same hilly section on the photo shoot proved that the stoppers were pretty faultless. Dual 300 mm discs are found up front with twin piston calipers and a single 240 mm out the back – both ends coming with ABS.

Dual wave rotors and two-piston calipers are found on the front on the CFMoto 650 GT
Dual wave rotors and two-piston calipers are found on the front on the CFMoto 650 GT

Good lever feel, good power. I must have done 40 hard stops in fairly quick succession at either end of that section of road while snapper Rob clambered around getting the shots. Down one end it was a proper hard stop, downhill from third gear to standstill. They work just fine.

I prefer this version’s wet multi-plate clutch over the NK too. While it’s not a slipper clutch, it has a noticeably better take up and overall feel. And let’s face it, you just don’t need a slipper clutch on a 650 cc twin.

A tool-less height adjustable screen is also found on the 650 GT.
A tool-less height adjustable screen is also found on the 650 GT.

The front end is completely restyled with generous wind protection and a nice tool-less height adjustable screen that works well to provide a wind protection bubble. Despite having a different headlight setup compared to the NK, I found the headlights just as underdone.

The perimeter of the low beam was very well defined but too short and high beam didn’t have all that much power. In fact the glare of the nice LCD dash was overpowering until I found the brightness adjuster button, after which it was much better. That dash – also shared with the NK, is a ripper too. Clear and bright, easy to read, job done.

The CFMoto 650 GTs LCD dash
The CFMoto 650 GTs LCD dash

So it turns out that the headlights are really my only niggle on the GT. I found I preferred pretty much everything else about it over the NK. And I quite liked the NK!

But here’s the best part – the price. $8,490 ride-away, or $8,690 ride-away in states where new vehicles need 12 months rego. It’s frankly ridiculous. LAMS friendly bikes don’t come any better for that price and I’d comfortably wager that this is the best bang for your buck in the segment. Have I ever mentioned that riders have it pretty good right now..?

CFMoto 650 GT Review
Priced between $8,490 and $8,690 ride-away the CFMoto 650 GT is unbeleivable value

So if this type of bike is on your consideration list, you should have no hesitation in checking the CFMoto 650 GT out.

Why I like the CFMoto 650 GT:

  • The value factor is off the charts.
  • Improves on the already good NK in almost every way.
  • Surprisingly good through the corners.

I’d like the CFMoto 650 GT even more if…

  • Headlights could be better, especially low beam.
  • Umm? 
Headlights were the one area of criticism on CFMoto's 650 GT
Headlights were the one area of criticism on CFMoto’s 650 GT

2021 CFMOTO 650 GT Specifications
Engine Two cylinder, inline four-stroke, eight-valve, DOHC with counter balance
Capacity 649.3 cc
Bore & Stroke 83 x 60 mm
Compression Ratio 11.3:1
Fuel System Bosch EFI
Max Power Output 41.5 kW @ 9,500rpm (LAMS)
Max Torque 62 NM @ 7,000rpm
Gearbox Six-speed
Clutch Multiplate wet
Frame Tubular steel diamond frame employing engine as fully-stressed member
Front Suspension 38 mm KYB telescopic fork (max travel 120mm)
Rear Suspension Extruded steel swingarm with tubular steel bracing, cantilever KYB monoshock (max. travel 45mm)
Front Brake J.Juan Dual 300 mm discs with twin-piston calipers
Rear Brake J.Juan Single 240 mm disc with single-piston caliper
ABS Continental ABS
Wheels Front 17 x 3.5 cast alloy wheels
Wheels Rear 17 x 4.5 cast alloy wheels
Tyres Front 120/70 ZR17 Metzeler
Tyres Rear 160/60 ZR17 Metzeler
Length x Width x Height 2100 x 784 x 1340 mm
Wheelbase 1415 mm
Seat Height 795 mm
Min Ground Clearance 150 mm
Min Turning Diameter 5.6 m
Fuel Capacity 19L
Payload 150 kg
Dry Weight 213 kg
Colours Nebula White or Night Black
Warranty Three-Year Warranty

CFMoto 650 GT Gallery

Source: MCNews.com.au

WR250F gets new frame, cams, ports and better brakes for 2022

2022 Yamaha WR250F

The new model is fitted with a full power ECU and comes with ADR compliance so can be fully road registered in all states.
A free Off-Road Competition Kit is also offered for owners who wish to set up their WR250F to ride on closed courses.

Australia’s most popular 250 cc enduro bike has undergone a significant revamp for 2022 with camshaft and cylinder head changes, new frame, better brakes and a smoother running engine are the headline changes for the new model year. 

New YZ250F-spec exhaust cam for better drive and new YZ250F-spec intake port shape increases volume for improved flow rate and power delivery

Development input by a range of Aussie enduro riders and continual updates based on the hugely successful YZ250F MX weapon are the reasons why the WR250F has performed so strongly here in Australia.

The WR250F was once a fairly laid back trail bike, but in recent years the model has taken on a distinctly sharper edge, largely to counter the increased level of competition from European machinery that continued to push the envelope of engine performance. Thus, today’s WR250F is more about blasting through the bush, rather than plodding through the bush, Yamaha have you covered there with the WR250R.

New engine balancer reduces vibration and improves drive at low to mid-range. New gearbox cam shift design for smoother gear shifting

By using the current model YZ250F as a starting point, Yamaha’s experienced development team – including Kiwi race team manager and Yamaha legend Josh Coppins – claim they have come up with an enduro weapon that turns, stops and goes better than ever before.

New Control Filled aluminium frame based on YZ250F and tuned for off-road riding.

Sporting a new aluminium bilateral beam frame, more power with a smoother delivery, slicker gear shifts and stronger braking, the MY22 is improved in all the major areas.

Industry-leading KYB speed-sensitive dual chamber forks and rear shock with revised settings to suit MY22 chassis

The MY22 WR450F continues with the radical updates received in 2021 that gave the bike a lighter, more balanced feel with easier to control power delivery.

New front brake 270mm rotor with 16% increased surface without any extra weight
Larger front caliper pistons – 22.65 mm to 25.4 mm – with 30% increased rigidity

The 2022 Yamaha WR250F will be available in Australia for $14,899 Ride Away in Team Yamaha Blue from this December, 2021.

New multi-function meter with integral fuel and engine warning lights.
Also features odometer, tripmeters, clock, timer and accumulated fuel consumption meter indicator

2022 Yamaha WR250F at a glance

  • New YZ250F-spec exhaust cam for better drive
  • New YZ250F-spec intake port shape increases volume for improved flow rate and power delivery
  • New YZ250F-spec throttle body joint improves power delivery
  • Improved cam chain tensioner design
  • New engine balancer reduces vibration and improves drive at low to mid-range.
  • New gearbox cam shift design for smoother gear shifting
  • New Control Filled aluminium frame based on YZ250F and tuned for off-road riding
  • New engine brackets tuned specifically for MY22 WR250F
  • Industry-leading KYB speed-sensitive dual chamber forks and rear shock with revised settings to suit MY22 chassis
  • New YZ250F-spec footpegs, bars, holders and front axle with sealed bearing front wheel
  • New Dunlop Geomax E91 tyres with new profile, overall weight saving and better performance over a wide range of conditions. Front 90/90-21 and rear 140/80-18 sizes
  • New multi-function meter with integral fuel and engine warning lights. Also features odometer, tripmeters, clock, timer and accumulated fuel consumption meter indicator
  • New stronger chain guide bracket
  • New front brake 270mm rotor with 16% increased surface without any extra weight
  • Larger front caliper pistons – 22.65 mm to 25.4 mm – with 30% increased rigidity
  • New front brake pads with 25% increased surface area
  • New exhaust heat guard design to avoid snagging
  • New stronger muffler bracket

The 2022 Yamaha WR250F In More Detail 

The new model’s liquid-cooled, four-stroke, electric start engine features an all-new cylinder head with a larger and improved intake port shape and new exhaust camshaft profile straight from the MXGP dominant YZ250F.

The new model is fitted with a full power ECU and comes with ADR compliance so can be fully road registered in all states.
A free Off-Road Competition Kit is also offered for owners who wish to set up their WR250F to ride on closed courses.

These mods, along with other refinements like revised engine balancer and gear shift cam help to produce stronger mid to top-end power and increased peak power, while retaining strong low-end torque.

Tuned specifically for the 2022 WR250F, the updated lightweight aluminium, bilateral beam frame and new engine mounts have been redesigned with all-new flex characteristics to improve bump absorption, traction, and cornering performance.

Rear shock with revised settings to suit MY22 chassis

Settings on the industry-leading, fully adjustable KYB coil spring-type fork with enhanced speed-sensitive damping have been revised to suit the new machine and off-road conditions. And the link-type rear suspension features a KYB shock with revised damping characteristics to match the updated chassis.

Industry-leading KYB speed-sensitive dual chamber forks and

Other chassis components such as the top triple clamp, handlebar mounts, and front axle have also been redesigned to complement the new frame – and like the frame these changes are based on the winning YZ250F.

New Dunlop Geomax EN91 ISDE-winning tyres have been specified for improved performance over a wide variety of terrain.

New front brake pads with 25% increased surface area

Improved braking performance is achieved with a newly engineered lighter front brake caliper with larger surface area brake pads and redesigned front 270 mm disc. A new speed sensor ring sends information to an all-new user-friendly multifunction meter that houses both engine and low fuel warning lights.

New front brake 270mm rotor with 16% increased surface without any extra weight – Larger front caliper pistons – 22.65 mm to 25.4 mm – with 30% increased rigidity

Riders can adjust their engine performance straight from their smartphone using the onboard wireless connectivity through the free of charge Yamaha Power Tuner app. Once settings are dialled-in, you can choose between two user-defined ECU maps on the fly via the handlebar mounted dual-mode engine map switch.

Yamaha Power Tuner app

Features such as electric start, advanced fuel injection and a front-positioned intake with rear-positioned exhaust layout delivers the widest spread of power while maintaining reliable performance and balance for excellent mass-centralisation.

New engine balancer reduces vibration and improves drive at low to mid-range. New gearbox cam shift design for smoother gear shifting

When combined with a lightweight, sharp-handing chassis and industry leading suspension package, the new WR250F continues to offer the fastest way across tight and technical terrain while also providing the widest smile possible.

$14,899 inc GST ride away

The new model is fitted with a full power ECU and comes with ADR compliance so can be fully road registered in all states. A free Off-Road Competition Kit is also offered for owners who wish to set up their WR250F to ride on closed courses. The WR250F is also LAMS compliant for new riders.


Australian off-road kit (include)

All WR250F AND WR450Fs come with full ADR compliance and so can be road registered to ride in Australian state forests where permitted. Each bike also comes with a free off-road kit for closed course competition use which includes:

  • Lightweight LED tail light/and licence plate holder
  • High quality braided steel front brake line
  • Competition larger diameter GYTR exhaust muffler outlet
  • Full power/full movement throttle stopper screw
  • Brake snake rear foot brake protection
  • Wiring connector for rear brake light
  • Barkbuster handguard set – not pictured in global images shown
  • Front and rear brake line Banjo bolts
  • Tail light undercover
  • Original side stand bolt, engine stop switch, engine start switch
  • Communication Control Unit
  • CCU map switch
  • 5 x 100mm zip ties for speedo sensor line attachment to brake line
2022 Yamaha WR250F

2022 Yamaha WR250F Specifications

  • Engine type Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 4-valve
  • Displacement 250cc
  • Bore x stroke 77.0 x 53.6mm
  • Compression ratio 13.8 : 1
  • Fuel delivery Fuel Injection
  • Starter system Electric
  • Lubrication system Wet sump
  • Transmission system Constant mesh 6-speed / return
  • Final Transmission Chain
  • Frame Aluminium bilateral beam
  • Front suspension 48mm KYB fully adjustable inverted twin chamber speed sensitive 310mm travel
  • Rear suspension KYB fully adjustable link type 317mm travel
  • Front brake Single hydraulic disc, 270mm
  • Rear brake Single hydraulic disc, 245mm
  • Front tyre 90/90-21 Dunlop Geomax EN91
  • Rear tyre 140/80-18 Dunlop Geomax EN91
  • Overall length 2175 mm
  • Overall width 825 mm
  • Overall height 1270 mm
  • Seat height 955 mm
  • Minimum ground clearance 320 mm
  • Wet weight (including full oil and fuel tank) 115 kg
  • Fuel tank capacity 7.9L
  • Colour Team Yamaha Blue
  • Warranty Three months, parts only
  • Availability From Dec 2021
  • Ride Away Pricing* WR250F – $14,899 inc
    *Pricing correct at time of publication 29 Sept 2021.
2022 Yamaha WR250F
2022 Yamaha WR250F
2022 Yamaha WR250F
2022 Yamaha WR250F
2022 Yamaha WR250F
2022 Yamaha WR250F

Source: MCNews.com.au

Benelli’s TNT 600i four returns to the LAMS category

Benelli TNT 600i LAMS


Benelli have re-introduced their 600 cc LAMS offering, the naked TNT 600i, which has been missing from the line-up for a number of years. It had previously been called the BN 600S and offers an updated four-cylinder option in a category dominated by parallel twins.

Benelli TNT 600i LAMS

The TNT 600i features the Benelli in-line four-cylinder engine, with liquid-cooling and DOHC. Maximum engine power is 54 hp (44 kW) at 11,170 RPM, with maximum torque of 51 Nm at 10,500 rpm. It has wet sump lubrication, wet multi-plate clutch, and a six speed gearbox with final chain drive.

Benelli TNT 600i LAMS

The ABS braking system boasts dual 320 mm diameter semi-floating rotors at the front with radial four-piston callipers.

Benelli TNT 600i LAMS

The alloy 17-inch rims are fitted with 120/70 and 180/55 rubber, in keeping with the full size bike theme. Sharp lines characterise the new Tornado Naked TNT 600i, enhanced by an LED headlight and colour TFT dash.

A TFT dash is an eye catching feature

The exposed chassis consists of a steel trellis main frame, accompanied by sturdy aluminium plates in the swingarm pivot area, to guarantee rigidity and stability.

The Benelli TNT 600i LAMS funs a monoshock with preload adjustability

The TNT 600i also runs 50 mm USD forks, alloy swingarm and adjustable monoshock with spring preload.

The Benelli TNT 600i runs undertail dual exhausts

The TNT 600i is expected to arrive in Australia & New Zealand in early September in either Alpine White or Midnight Black, and is set to be competitively priced with a two-year unlimited kilometre warranty, including two-years of premium road-side assist.

Benelli TNT 600i LAMS Specifications
Benelli TNT 600i LAMS Specifications

Source: MCNews.com.au

Showcasing Kawasaki’s Stockman and KLX150BF SE

Kawasaki Stockman 250 & KLX150BF SE


Kawasaki have a range of motorcycles designed specifically for use on the farm. The KLX150BF SE is also a viable option for a new rider thanks to LAMS compliance, while the Stockman 250 is primarily for working properties.

2021 Kawasaki Stockman 250

The Stockman 250 is the utilitarian of the pair, being non-road registerable, so for use on private property only, featuring a 250 cc air-cooled four-stroke engine that is a no fuss, reliable powerplant.

2021 Kawasaki Stockman 250

Making the Stockman 250 particularly ready for farm and work duties is the standard inclusion of a front rack, ideal for strapping down items. Hand guards protect the levers and riders digits.

2021 Kawasaki Stockman 250

On the rear of the Stockman is a larger rear rack rated to carry a fairly hefty 20 kg of load. Providing further protection to the bike is a set of engine guards, ensuring the rugged machine can easily deal with the rigours of farm life and doesn’t need to be babied.

2021 Kawasaki Stockman 250

Dual side stands also offer the flexibility to leave the bike almost anywhere easily. A nine-litre fuel tank and great fuel effeciency offering a generous range.

2021 Kawasaki Stockman 250

The Stockman 250 runs a stainless steel exhaust, LCD display, disc brakes, a 21-inch front and 18-inch rear with knobby tyres and comes with a toolkit mounted opposite the exhaust.

2021 Kawasaki Stockman 250

Forks are 36 mm telescopic units, and the rear shock offers stepless spring preload and 18-way rebound adjustment.

2021 Kawasaki Stockman 250

The Stockman 250 weighs 133 kg all up with an 830 mm seat height and comes in Lime Green with a 12-month warranty. It’s available for $6,299 RRP plus delivery and associated costs.

2021 Kawasaki KLX150BF SE

In comparison the 2021 Kawasaki KLX150BF SE offers a road registerable, LAMS compliant machine, with a higher-spec despite running a smaller capacity 144 cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine.

2021 Kawasaki KLX1250BF SE

The KLX150 BF runs full size 21 and 18-inch front and rear wheels respectively, alongside petal disc brakes. Lightweight aluminium rims are used with a black alumite finish.

Inverted 35 mm forks allow for 175 mm of travel and are gold finished, while a gas charged rear shock allows for five preload levels and offers 192 mm of travel.

2021 Kawasaki KLX1250BF SE

The dash is a simple analogue design, with a halogen headlight, Fat bar handlebars and MX style throttle grips. The ‘bars are also rubber mounted to minimise vibrations, with separate upper triple clamp and handlebar clamps allowing for different ‘bar fitment.

A flat seat design makes for easy movement on the bike, but the height is taller at 870 mm, while simple single-mount handguards are fitted, as well as engine and frame guards.

The KLX150BF runs a 6.9 L fuel tank, which with the bikes meagre fuel use, should offer a significant range and is covered by a 24-month unlimited kilometre warranty.

2021 Kawasaki KLX1250BF SE

The bike weighs in at 118 kg fully fueled at the kerb, in Neon Green/Ebony and makes for an ideal option for those after a LAMS machine for a new rider. Priced at $4,399 plus on road costs, in Sydney that equates to $5,255 ride-away, making for an easy entry point into registered riding.

For more information check out the Kawasaki Australia website (link).

Source: MCNews.com.au

Peugeot Brings the Kisbee 50 to Scooter Riders

Updated and Ready to Go

The Peugeot Motorcycles’ scooters are fantastic little machines. The Kisbee 50 is one of the company’s offerings. It was recently upgraded for 2020. The company added some more power and some additional features for the little 50cc scooter. 

For 2020, the bike comes with electronic fuel injection, a new piston design, lighter con-rod, and three-chamber exhaust. All of these things help the little two-stroke make 4.6 hp and the best torque in its class of 4.6 Nm. The bike has a CVT, so it’s a twist-n-go affair.

Kisbee-Hero

The bike comes with a 6.8-liter fuel tank, a front disc brake, and a rear drum brake. The scooter also has 12-inch alloy wheels, a contoured seat that can ride two-up if needed, and a slew of new colors, including Rogue Cherry Red, Satin Flash Silver, Icy White, and Matte Black. 

Bikes from British golden era at auction

The bike is offered with a two-year unlimited kilometer warranty. It’s also learner-approved, which should help it attract more riders. Peugeot is selling the bike at $2,990. Click here to see it on Peugeot’s website.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Video: Is a $2000 Amazon Dual Sport Worth It?

The chads over at Bikes and Beards are back with another video overview of cheap amazon bikes. Funny enough, I say “cheap Amazon bikes”, but this one happens to be the most expensive model available on the site emptying your wallet with a $2000 cost-to-own. That’s still really cheap in terms of new bikes, as you’re looking at a $4k minimum barrier to entry if you’re looking to pick up a new dual-sport ride.

For an inexpensive bike, you’re definitely getting what you pay for. To put things into perspective, I recently picked up a 2001 Yamaha WR426F used for $2000 CAD. With the Hawk DXL coming straight from China, corners will be cut anywhere to save on costs to provide potential customers with the cheapest bike possible. When shopping for a dual-sport bike catered to offroad riding the last thing you want is cheap parts such as shifters and rims etc, but those are easy to replace in the event they snap or break anyways.

Previously, they unboxed and tested a different version from Amazon by the same manufacturer and it wasn’t quite as bad as you might think. This is the DXL version of the “Hawk” bike they reviewed in the last video, bringing a fuel injection system to the ride providing quite a bit more power. The bike requires full assembly to save money on the packaging/shipping which is odd to me because if you’re experienced enough with bikes to assemble one from (almost) scratch you probably aren’t going to be in the market for a cheap $2000 motorcycle anyways.

After assembling the motorcycle and giving an overview of the cheaper parts used on the bike, Sean gave it a quick test ride around the block to see its capabilities. He says the bike has much more power than the cheaper version, which is hopeful seeing as how the non-DXL version was lacking in power and overall performance. The only real problem that came up on the first impression ride was a frequent stalling issue which I’m sure he will cover and remedy in the upcoming videos.

Be sure to keep up to date with the series as he has a video planned to put the Hawk DXL up against more traditional production bikes in the same category to really illustrate the difference in cost-to-performance.

Travis Pastrana recreates Evel Knievel stunts

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

CFMoto 300SR price announced

The first fully faired sports model from Chinese motorcycle manufacturer CFMoto, the 300SR, has arrived in Australia.

Importers Mojo Motorcycles say the 300SR is available in Nebula Black or Turquoise Blue for $5790 ride away with a three-year warranty.

In fact, all CFMoto bikes purchased from until the end of the year receive the extended warranty up on the standard two-year factory unlimited km warranty.

The main rivals to the 300SR are the Honda CBR300R at $5749, KTM RC390 ($5995), Suzuki GSX250R ($5790) and Yamaha YZF-R3 ($6299).

CFMoto 300SR featuresCFMoto 300SR

The novice sports bike has low handlebars and an aggressive riding stance and is powered by a 300cc single-cylinder engine with 21kW (29hp) at 8750rpm and 23.5Nm of torque at 7250rpm.

It features all LED lighting and a new colour TFT display with Sport and Eco modes and auto-adjust screen brightness that matches ambient light.

The display offers integrated functions such as rpm, gear, speed and even mobile phone connectivity.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Stylish learner legal retro twin from Yamaha gets new look

2020 Yamaha XSR700

2020 Yamaha XSR700

Yamaha dealers are now taking deliveries of the learner legal 2020 Yamaha XSR700 in an eye-catching new Dynamic White colour scheme.

2020 Yamaha XSR700

Designed to reflect iconic models from Yamaha’s 65-year heritage, the XSR700 is a popular model in Yamaha’s ‘Sport Heritage’ range and is certainly one of the most attractive learner legal motorcycles on the market.

2020 Yamaha XSR700

Styling cues include an aluminium fuel tank, front and rear aluminium fenders, two-texture leather seat, vintage-style headlight and taillight, circular instrumentation and brushed aluminium around the front fender, radiator and headlight.

2020 Yamaha XSR700

Just like Yamaha’s top-selling MT-07LA, the learner approved XSR700 is unique to the Australian market; built by the factory to meet Australian Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS) guidelines.

655 cc mill especially designed for the Australian LAMS market

Heritage by nature but modern by design. Power is provided by a 655cc twin-cylinder engine, mounted in a lightweight and slim steel trellis frame with the engine as a stressed member. A 270-degree engine crank provides rich and linear torque delivery right across the rev range.

2020 Yamaha XSR700

The XSR700 is tuned to just slide under the llearner power restrictions but delivers great torque that is sure to continue to excite long after the L-plates are ditched.

2020 Yamaha XSR700

Model specifications of the 2020 model are unchanged from the 2019 XSR700 and ride away pricing is $12,899 including GST.

2020 Yamaha XSR700

2020 Yamaha XSR700 Specifications

  • Engine – 655 cc parallel twin, DOHC, 4-valve
  • Bore x Stroke – 78 x 68.6 mm
  • Compression Ratio – 11.01:1
  • Induction – EFI
  • Gearbox – Six speed
  • Fuel Capacity – 14 litres
  • Front Suspension – Forks, 130 mm travel
  • Rear Suspension – Monoshock, 130 mm travel
  • Brakes – 282 mm twin disc (F), 245 mm disc (R)
  • Tyres – 120/70-17 (F), 180/55-17 (R)
  • L x W x H – 2075 x 820 x 1130 mm
  • Wheelbase – 1405 mm
  • Seat Height – 835 mm
  • Ground Clearance – 140 mm
  • Wet Weight – 186 kg
  • Warranty – 24 months
  • Price – $12,899 ride away
2020 Yamaha XSR700
2020 Yamaha XSR700
2020 Yamaha XSR700
2020 Yamaha XSR700
2020 Yamaha XSR700
2020 Yamaha XSR700

Source: MCNews.com.au

Surge in new motorcyclists seeking rider training

Good news for motorcycling!

Amongst all the doom and gloom of the plague there is actually some really good news for motorcycling. June motorcycles sales broke recent records for a number of brands, thanks for the early superannuation withdrawal Scomo!

On top of that good news, motorcycle training provider Stay Upright is reporting a more than 20 per cent increase in customers compared to the same period last year. Their rider training figures are most up in NSW, with most of that increase coming since May 1, when in-person motorcycle rider training resumed following closures across the state due to COVID-19.

Annaliesse Cawood, General Manager of Stay Upright, believes the spike has potentially been fuelled by the pandemic as people look to reduce expenses by downsizing to two-wheeler vehicles, given they are cheaper to purchase and operate than cars. They also offer more flexibility in terms of mobility and there are no problems with social distancing on a motorcycle!

Stay Upright Motorcycle Rider Training

In NSW, the State Government supports motorcycle riding by subsidising learner licencing. Therefore, the initial L-plate training sessions are relatively inexpensive ($96 in NSW), and many people have looked at getting a motorbike licence now as they suddenly have the time to do it,” Cawood said. “But having a learning licence does not equate to riding experience.

Unlike four-wheel vehicles, riders on their L-Plates are free to ride on public roads by themselves immediately following the awarding of their learner licence,” Cawood said. “New, inexperienced riders are particularly vulnerable. Car and truck drivers need to be aware of blind spots with more people expected to ride and drive back to work rather than catching public transport.

Stay Upright Motorcycle Rider Training

Drivers need to remember to check their blind spots – motorcycle riders are trained to avoid driver blind spots, but it helps if drivers are also looking out for them.

Places such as empty car parks are a great way to gain experience with the basics of what they’ve learned in their initial training,” Cawood said. “Riders are responsible for their ongoing training and experience building. Regular riding is critical to riders becoming more comfortable on the road.”

However, the biggest precaution road users can take at this time is increasing their awareness,” Cawood said. “We have become accustomed to emptier-than-usual roads, but this quickly going to change, and road users need to readjust their awareness to pre-pandemic levels.”

Stay Upright Motorcycle Rider Training
About Stay Upright

Stay Upright is Australia’s first and largest motorcycle rider training and safety company. Founded in 1981 by Warwick Schuberg, the ex-Head of the NSW Police Rider Training Unit, the organisation was the first to offer rider training to the Australian public.

For more information, visit www.stayupright.com.au.

Source: MCNews.com.au