Triumph has squeezed in a Thruxton RS to their Bonneville range, in between the Thruxton R and the Thruxton TFC.
That’s four in the Thruxton line and some 13 models in the entire Bonneville range; five with the 900cc engine and the rest with the 1200cc twin.
There is no word yet from Triumph Australia on when it will arrive or pricing, but expect it to cost more than the R at $21,100 (plus on-road costs).
The new Thruxton R has 5kW more power o 77kW and 112Nm of torque delivered 700rpm lower in the rev range.
That compares with the top-of-the-line Thruxton TFC with 79kW and 115Nm.
Triumph says it the RS model is 6kg lighter than the R.
It comes with hi-spec Brembo M50 radial mono bloc callipers, sticker Metzler Racetec RR tyres, Ohlins shocks, traction control, LED lighting and USB charger.
The three riding modes – Sport, Road and Rain – now adjust throttle map, ABS and traction control.
Styling is dark with black anodised whereas and engine covers and black Ohlines RSU twin shocks.
It comes in black or grey with silver trimmings.A range of custom accessories will be available, including the bubble fairing.
As expected, Suzuki has upgraded its V-Strom range with a 1050 flagship in honour of their legendary DR-BIG.
Not only is the flagship V-Strom bigger with 5kW more power to 79kW at 8500 revs, but it is also more techno.
Some of the hi-tech features include cruise, hill hold, slope and load dependent controls, ride modes and LED lighting.
It will come in two models, standard and XT for touring.
Suzuki Australia says V-Strom 1050 and XT are expected to arrive in the middle of 2020 with final specifications, colours and pricing confirmed closer to launch.
Here is the full V-Strom 1050 press release from Suzuki Australia
Powered by Suzuki’s highly acclaimed 1037cc, 90° V-twin, DOHC engine which has further evolved for MY20, boasting increased top-end power whilst also conforming to Euro 5 emissions standards. Thanks to new camshaft profiles and timing, peak horsepower has increased considerably from 74kW / 8,000rpm to 79kW / 8,500rpm (106hp). The highly refined engine begins with a deep rumble low in the rpm range, then progresses through the mid-range along a strong and linear torque curve then keeps building through the high rpm range in a smooth yet enjoyable manner.
The distinctive new styling incorporates elements of both Suzuki’s legendary DR-Z desert racer and the large off-road model DR-BIG. The distinguishing beak design first adopted by Suzuki stays true to Suzuki’s heritage while also modernising the design to be more aggressive and bolder for the new generation V-STROM.
The most technologically advanced production Suzuki motorcycle in company history, the latest generation V-STROM is the first to boast Suzuki’s new Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S). Combining an array of electronic aids and controls as well as several unique features only available on XT, further enhancing rider useability and convenience like never before.
An advanced cruise control system works in conjunction with the new ride-by-wire throttle system to maintain the set vehicle speed without the rider needing to operate the throttle, a welcomed feature for long-distance touring that assists in reducing rider fatigue. Cruising speed can be set from approximately 50km/h to 160km/h at fourth gear or above. A switch on the right handlebar can be pressed to put cruise control into standby,and the selector switch (up/down) on the left handlebars allows the rider to adjust the speed up and down accordingly.
Suzuki’s famous Drive Mode Selector (SDMS) is now available on a V-STROM for the very first time, offering riders the choice of three difference output characteristic modes. A-mode provides the sharpest throttle response, B-mode provides a slightly softer throttle response and C-mode provides the softest response of the three modes.
Another Suzuki first is the Hill Hold, Slope Dependent and Load Dependent control systems available on XT. Hill hold control automatically applies the rear brake when the motorcycle is stopped on an upward slope to prevent rollback when the brakes and clutch are released. Slope Dependent control constantly monitors posture and if required controls brake pressure to prevent rear wheel lift during downhill braking.
Load Dependent system supports optimal braking by compensating for varying load conditions such as the difference between riding solo or with a pillion and loaded luggage vs unloaded.
An updated traction control system now features three modes of control (previously two) inspiring greater confidence in diverse riding conditions. Mode 1 is for spirited riding with minimal level of intervention. Mode 2 is ideal for commuting and regular riding conditions and Mode 3 is best suited for poorer riding conditions such as wet or cold roads as it offers the highest level of intervention.
An upgraded Bosch inertial measurement unit (IMU) equipped on the XT model now works on 6-directions along 3-axis rather than the 5-axis of the previous system. This allows it to detect pitch, roll, and yaw movements based on the angular rate and acceleration. This new high-performance 6-direction IMU combines a 3-axis angular rate sensor (gyrometer) and a 3-axis acceleration sensor in a single compact unit.
The motion track brake system exclusive to XT combines information on the posture of the vehicle from the new IMU with the front and rear wheel speeds. This allows the ABS to activate not only in a straight line but also when the vehicle is leaning. When the brake lever or pedal is operated, this system instantly assesses the need of ABS operation by calculating the posture of the vehicle and front and rear wheel speeds. When judging the need of operation, ABS unit decreases braking pressure, and continues to control the increase/decrease of the pressure according to the traction available.
This latest ABS system allows the rider to select from 2-levels of intervention. Mode 1 provides minimal intervention and is suitable for flat dirt roads, whilst Mode 2’s intervention timing is earlier than Mode 1 and is ideal for normal tarmac roads.
A newly added Combined Brake System automatically applies pressure to the rear brake to help stablise the motorcycle when the front brake pressure rises to a certain degree.
An updated windscreen design compliments the new exterior design. Developed utilising wind-tunnel testing, the new screen can be finely adjusted without tools to one of 11 positions across a 50mm vertical range.
The instrument panel presents all required information on a full LCD screen using a clean and intuitive layout with information displayed in order of priority. Included in the display are the speedometer, tachometer (full pixel digital display), gear position indicator, odometer, trip meter (A, B), instantaneous fuel consumption, average fuel consumption, driving range, fuel level indicator, engine coolant temperature indicator, ambient air temperature indicator, clock, voltage meter, service reminder, SDMS mode, traction control mode, cruise control indicator, ABS mode, hill hold indicator, engine rpm indicator light,frost indicator light, turn signal indicator light, high beam indicator light, traction control indicator light, ABS indicator light, and neutral indicator light.
A USB port is located left side of the instrument panel. It can be used as a power source for charging a smartphone, navigation system, or other similar device.
The lightweight and compact chassis is the core factor in achieving the V-STROM’s comfortable and enjoyable character. The narrow width of its V-twin engine allows the motorcycle to maintain a slim body shape even with a 20L fuel tank present, allowing the rider to easily reach the ground with their feet.
Utilising a cast aluminium twin-spar frame featuring the optimal rigidity balance for exceptional stability and handling performance. The frame supports everything a rider requires to embark on their next big adventure from straight line stability to smooth and natural cornering with high levels of traction.
The 43mm KYB inverted front fork features adjustable compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload and can be tailored based on rider preference and usage.
The V-STROM 1050XT also sports a completely new seat design that allows the seat height to be adjusted an additional 20mm higher than the standard position. The KYB rear shock features adjustable spring preload via an external hand dial to easily facilitate adjustments between riding solo, with pillion or fully loaded with luggage.
TOKICO Monobloc radial mounted front brake calipers handle stopping duties matched with dual 310mm floating discs provide strong braking performance with remarkable feel.
The footrests are constructed of tough steel and have been redesigned to make it easier for the rider to stand on flat dirt, and are also wider than the previous version.
Protection and convenience on the XT is taken to the next level with an aluminium under cowling and accessory bar guarding underneath and side of the engine whilst stronger hand guards have been employed to protect rider’s hands from wind, rain and flying stones. The lightweight centre stand is well balanced and is useful when performing maintenance tasks and loading luggage.
Wire-spoked aluminium rims are fitted as standard on the XT model offering improved road absorption whilst the standard model is equipped with 10-spoke cast aluminium wheels. Both variants are shod with Bridgestone Battlax Adventure A41 tyres.
A vertically stacked LED headlight and LED rear combination light deliver excellent visibility and stylish looks, the XT also features LED indicators as standard equipment.
Other niceties include Suzuki’s Low RPM assist system which monitors and automatically raises the idle speed when taking off from a stop or when riding slowly through traffic and
Suzuki’s Easy Start System which provides ultra-convenient one-touch engine starting.
BMW Motorrad has revealed a surprise with the launch of the new “Dynamic Roadster” F 900 R and F 900 XR with more capacity and tech.
Most punters had been expecting an F 850 RS, but BMW has turned up the wick with these adventure sport models.
Here is the full official BMW press release on the new models.
BMW F 900 R Dynamic Roadster
Self-confident, sporty, active, focused on a dynamic experience – this is how fans of the BMW F 900 R could be described. The new dynamic roadster by BMW Motorrad conveys a sense of freedom and a modern lifestyle.
At the emotional level, sports-style and aggressive design meets inspiring performance in terms of engine output, torque and sound.
In addition, there are aspects such as a wide range of potential uses, a high level of suitability for everyday riding and ergonomics that make the F 900 R of equal interest to experienced sports riders and newcomers.
BMW F 900 XR
“XR” stands for an uncompromising mix of sportiness and touring capability. Having established this family with the BMW S 1000 XR, BMW Motorrad is now expanding it with the addition of a mid-range model. The design style and vehicle concept clear refer to the kinship with the “big sister”.
The F 900 XR also demonstrates easy mastery of the Adventure Sport segment’s key qualities: sporty riding dynamics combined with upright, GS‑like ergonomics, outstanding long-distance and passenger suitability and a design that conveys a powerful sense of character.
The new F 900 XR also benefits from the technology transfer from the upper class: Adaptive Cornering Light, Keyless Ride or Intelligent Emergency Call are all unique features in the mid-range.
In addition to sporty riders, the XR is also aimed at newcomers and motorcycle returnees due to its easy accessibility, low minimum seat height, A2 capability and attractive entry price.
Technology benchmark in the segment.
The two new models F 900 R and F 900 XR currently set the technological benchmark in the mid-range segment with their high-quality standard equipment (Connectivity, LED all round as standard) and their wide range of optional extras – in some cases unique in this class (including Adaptive Cornering Light, Keyless Ride, Dynamic ESA, Riding Modes Pro, Shift Assistant Pro, Intelligent Emergency Call, ABS Pro, MSR, DTC, DBC, RDC).
Drive featuring further developed 2-cylinder in-line engine with increased capacity and power along with new engine drag torque control.
In the new F 900 R and F 900 XR, enhanced riding dynamics are ensured by the further development of the 2-cylinder in-line engine first introduced in 2018 in the F 850 GS, now with 77 kW (105 hp) and an even fuller torque curve. The main factor here is an increase in capacity to 895 cc (previously 853 cc). With an ignition distance of 270/450 degrees and a new underfloor silencer system, the engine offers a particularly emotional sound.
In addition to the standard anti-hopping clutch, the new F 900 R and F 900 XR can be fitted with engine drag torque control (MSR) for the first time. It prevents the rear wheel from slipping as a result of abrupt throttling or downshifting, thereby ensuring even greater safety.
Two standard riding modes, ASC and ABS. Riding modes Pro with DTC, ABS Pro, DBC and MSR as ex works options.
The new F 900 R and F 900 XR already offer the “Rain” and “Road” riding modes as standard. The standard trim also includes ABS and ASC Automatic Stability Control, which is disengageable.
With “Riding Modes Pro” as an ex works option, the sporty characteristics of the new F 900 R and F 900 XR can be experienced even more intensively. The additional riding modes “Dynamic” and “Dynamic Pro”, Dynamic Traction Control DTC and banking capable ABS Pro are available, along with Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) and the new engine drag torque control (MSR).
Chassis with steel bridge frame, lightweight plastic tanks and the electronic suspension Dynamic ESA as optional extras.
Like the GS models in the F Series, the new F 900 R and F 900 XR make use of a steel bridge frame that integrates the engine as a load-bearing element and a fuel tank that is now back in its classic position in front of the
rider. Front wheel control is taken care of by an upside-down telescopic fork, while the rear wheel is guided by a double-sided swinging arm with central suspension strut.
The light, plastic-welded fuel tanks with a capacity of 15.5 litres (F 900 XR) and 13 litres (F 900 R) are a world first in motorcycle construction. The bolt-on steel rear frame has also been newly developed for the F 900 R and F 900 XR in order to create a visually short and slim rear. While the new F 900 R is a dynamic roadster focusing on sporty use and therefore shorter spring travel, the new F 900 XR – with its somewhat longer spring travel – offers a noticeable increase in comfort and therefore an even wider range of potential uses.
With the BMW Motorrad Dynamic ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment), available as an optional extra and almost unique in these vehicle segments, it is possible to further enhance the dynamic riding experience, riding comfort and also touring and passenger suitability, since the damping of the rear spring strut is automatically adapted to the conditions depending on riding state and manoeuvres.
Adaptive Cornering Light unique in the mid-range segment as part of the optional extra Headlight Pro. Powerful LED lighting units all round as standard. Even greater safety is offered by the Adaptive Cornering Light as a component of Headlight Pro, which is unique in the mid-range and comes as an optional extra ex works. Here, the rider benefits from improved illumination of the road when cornering for even safer riding at night. All lighting units in the new F models are based on LED technology as standard.
Perfectly readable colour 6.5-inch TFT screen with BMW Motorrad Connectivity as standard. The BMW Motorrad developers attached great importance to optimum readability for the instrument cluster – even in difficult lighting conditions. In addition, information diversity, display quality and user-friendliness are unmatched. The graphics on the screen are visually adapted to the sporty on-road world. Additional Core screens are available in conjunction with the optional Pro riding modes. The standard BMW Motorrad Connectivity is a unique feature in the mid-range, offering the ability to conveniently talk on the phone, listen to music or navigate while riding.
Perfectly designed ergonomic triangles for dynamic riding fun and – in the case of the F 900 XR – excellent segment-specific wind and weather protection for touring and travelling.
As a dynamic roadster, the F 900 R offers a particularly sporty, active seating position.
Meanwhile the F 900 XR offers an impressively active yet relaxed riding position for touring and travelling. The front fairing including an adjustable windshield combines a sporty look with sound rider protection.
Various low and high seats along with the optional lowering feature also allow individual adjustment to various body heights.
Three powerful colour and style variants each for an unmistakable sense of character.
Three dynamic colour and style variants for the new F 900 R and F 900 XR ensure unmistakable characteristics.
The new F 900 R is available in Blackstorm metallic, San Marino Blue metallic and Style Sport in Hockenheim Silver metallic/Racing Red.
In addition to Light White, the new F 900 XR offers the two Style variants Style Exclusive in Galvanic Gold metallic and Sport in Racing Red.
The highlights of the new BMW F 900 R and F 900 XR:
• The new BMW F 900 R: the dynamic roadster for purist riding fun.
• The new BMW F 900 XR: a genuine “XR” for the mid-range.
• The powerful common backbone integrates the further developed 2-cylinder in-line engine with an increased capacity of 895 cc (previously 853 cc).
• Further enhanced output and torque: 77kW (105 hp) at 8750rpm and 92Nm at 6500rpm.
• More than 87Nm torque in the relevant lower speed range from 4500 to 8500rpm.
• 35kW (48 hp) version available for licence class A2.
• High level of running smoothness due to two opposed counterbalance shafts.
• Two riding modes “Rain” and “Road” as well as ABS and ASC as standard.
• Riding Modes Pro with two further riding modes as well as Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), ABS Pro, Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) and engine drag torque control (MSR) as ex works options.
• Steel bridge frame for optimum rigidity, robustness and riding precision.
• Newly developed slim steel rear frame.
• World first in motorcycle construction: light, plastic-welded fuel tanks with a capacity of 13 litres (F 900 R) and 15.5 litres (F 900 XR).
• Front upside-down telescopic fork and aluminium double-sided swinging arm with rear central suspension strut.
• Spring travel: 135 mm (F 900 R) and 170 mm (F 900 XR) at front, 142 mm (F 900 R) and 172 mm (F 900 XR) at rear.
• Electronic suspension adjustment Dynamic ESA at rear as an ex works option.
• ABS Pro for even greater safety when braking at an angle as an ex works option.
• Sophisticated ergonomics and numerous seat alternatives.
• Fairing with practical wind and weather protection and adjustable windshield (F 900 XR).
• Adaptive Cornering Light unique in the mid-range as part of the ex works option Headlight Pro.
• Perfectly readable colour 6.5-inch TFT screen with BMW motorcycle connectivity as standard. • Powerful LED lighting units all round as standard.
• Intelligent Emergency Call as an ex works option for swift assistance in emergency situations.
• Keyless Ride for convenient activation of the locking functions by remote control as an ex works option.
• F 900 R in dynamic roadster design with muscular front section, aggressive headlight graphics and short, slim rear section.
• F 900 XR in Adventure Sport look with striking contours and sporty, dynamic fairing.
• High-quality workmanship down to the last detail.
• Three powerful colour and style variants each for unmistakable roadster and adventure sport characters.
• Extensive range of optional extras and Original BMW Motorrad Accessories as well as rider equipment.
Who knows if these bikes were the production version or more concepts!
BMW R 18/2 press release
Rather than trying to work out what the Germans are planning, we are just presenting their press release:
A performance cruiser à la BMW. The BMW Motorrad Concept R 18 /2 celebrates the fascination of cruisers in an interpretation that is both sporty and modern. Minimalist handlebar trim together with the deep, elongated proportions promises a dynamic driving experience. The fairing, tear-drop fuel tank and seat form a flowing line that finds its perfect conclusion in the shortened rear wheel cover. All body parts are finished in Candy Apple Red metallic, an expressive red tone that highlights the flowing movement on the side. This luminous custom red with lots of depth is a real eye-catcher, changing from bright red to almost black depending on the incidence of light. Another striking feature is created by the graphic lines on the painted body parts, which extend from the side and top view of the fuel tank to the wheel cover and are visually prolonged across the seat. These give the Concept Bike a distinctive appeal.
The large boxer at the centre. As in the Concept R 18, the centrepiece of the BMW Motorrad Concept R 18 /2 is a large 2-cylinder boxer engine with 1800 cc, including modern air/oil cooling and designed in a 1960s aesthetic. The engine is finished in a warm grey tone and has a sporty look, with an integrated breast cover, valve covers in a high-gloss black finish and a black frame. The engine badge bears the name of the Concept Bike, adding a high-quality accentuation. After “Departed” by the Japanese customizer CUSTOM WORKS ZON, “The Revival Birdcage” by Revival Cycles in Austin, Texas and the BMW Motorrad Concept R 18, the BMW Motorrad Concept R 18 /2 is now the fourth interpretation of the large-volume BMW Motorrad boxer engine.
Attention to detail. As a genuine BMW, the BMW Motorrad Concept R 18 /2 not only features a boxer engine, loop frame and tear-drop fuel tank, it also has a classic and elegantly showcased universal shaft. The striking cast iron wheels with 19” at the front and 16” at the rear create an equally discreet and dynamic dragster look, authentically rounding off the bike’s overall appearance. Meanwhile features such as high-performance Brembo brake calipers and Hattech stainless steel tailpipe system reflect the close attention to detail with which the BMW Motorrad Concept R 18 /2 was designed.
Multitude of possibilities. The BMW Motorrad Concept R 18 /2 puts forward a new interpretation of a dynamic performance cruiser that not only taps into an area previously unexplored by BMW Motorrad but also demonstrates the true versatility of the “big boxer” platform. “After the BMW Motorrad Concept R 18, our aim with the Concept R 18 /2 is to demonstrate how flexible the basic engine and suspension are as a starting point for customisation, and how easy it is to authentically realise different styles. And I have to admit: we were very impressed at how it was possible to bring this boxer concept forward from the 30s via the 80s into the 2020s,” says Bart Janssen Groesbeek, BMW Motorrad Vehicle Designer for the Big Boxer Concepts.
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.
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.
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.
CFMoto celebrated its 30th anniversary in Milan last night (4 November 2019) by announcing the introduction of the sexy new 700CL-X.
Australian director Michael Poynton says it will arrive in late 2020.
“They will be offering this new model as three different variants – Sports, Heritage, Adventure,” he says.
Sports has bar-end mirrors, lower bars, solo seat and mag wheels. Heritage features more complex mags, round mirrors and wide bars. Adventure has a screen, wire wheels and knobby tyres.
“In Australia, we are speaking to CFMoto to offer these new models in both a 650cc and 700cc displacement, allowing us to still have models for the LAMS market.”
The design features a mix of modern and traditional influences.
For example, the traditional round headlight has LED lighting and the round instruments have an LCD readout that can display fuel consumption and incoming call.
Interestingly, the X design in the headlights and the LCD instrument are quite reminiscent of the popular Ducati Scrambler.
The CFMoto 700CL-X has a lightweight frame that weighs just 16.5kg and the swingarm weighs 6.7kg. All up, it weighs 183kg dry.
Technology includes ABS, electronically controlled throttle, sliding clutch, cruise control , USB charging port under the seat and “electronic protection control” (an alarm, we think).
Its lighting system automatically switches on/off according to ambient brightness.
New engine
The 700CL-X is powered by a newly developed 692cc inline twin-cylinder water-cooled engine.
It is the latest evolution of the CFMOTO 150/250/400/650 displacement platforms, featuring split-type connection rod, forged piston, electronic throttle, sliding clutch.
The optimised intake system improves efficiency and increases the peak power from 41.5kW to 55kw and torque from 62Nm to 67Nm.
Thankfully it is one of the few adventur-ish motorcycles that has an easy-to-access air filter for cleaning.
Just remove the right plastic panel.
They say an oil change is so simple it can “easily be done at home”.
CFMoto also has a range of accessories to customise the bike, including luggage for the Adventure model.
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.
The 2020 Honda Fireblade CBR1000RR-R will join the 200hp+ club with MotoGP winglets and an engine and frame inspired by the RC213V.
Ahead of the EICMA motorcycle show unveiling tonight (5 November 2019) in Milan, the company has released full technical details of its iconic sportsbike.
Power to the people
The most important detail for most fans will be the fact that power is up from 141kW (189hp) at 13,000 revs to 160Kw (214hp) at 14,500rpm.
Torque is down by 1Nm to 113Nm at 12,500rpm which is 1500 revs more.
The compact inline four now has the same bore and stroke as the RC213V as well as internal friction reduction tech.
It not only finally catches up with the 200hp+ club, but also joins many modern models with a smart key, full-colour TFT screen and fly-by-wire throttle.
The latter allows updated technology with three riding modes, launch control, wheelie control, electronic steering damper and an upgraded torque control all managed by a six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit.
Air is now rammed straight through the front of the fairing into the airbox and the exhaust is a 4-2-1 system developed with Akrapovic.
The CBR1000RR-R is suspended on a Showa 43mm Big Piston Fork and Showa Balance-Free Rear Cushion Light shock with a longer swingarm like the RC213V-S.
There is also an SP version with higher-grade Brembo brakes and second-generation semi-active Öhlins Electronic Control with 43mm NPX forks and TTX36 Smart-EC shock.
Watch the video below of world champ Marc Marquez riding the SP version.
Bodywork
The 2020 Fireblades have a lighter aluminium diamond frame with the rear shock mounted to the back of the engine which means no upper cross-member.
Like many modern bikes it has a full-colour TFT display that is fully customisable through a four-way controller on the left switchblock.
It comes standard with a smart key fob for keyless start.
The MotoGP winglets are part of the restyled aero which includes a lower fuel tank (still 16 litres capacity) and a more compact riding position which may not suit tall Aussie riders.
CBR1000RR-R and SP tech specs
ENGINE
Type
Liquid-cooled 4-stroke 16-valve DOHC Inline-4
Engine Displacement (cm³)
999.9cc
No. of Valves per Cylinder
4
Bore × Stroke (mm)
81mm x 48.5mm
Compression Ratio
13.0 x 1
Max. Power Output
160kW @ 14,500
Max. Torque
113Nm @ 12,500
Oil Capacity
4.0L
FUEL SYSTEM
Carburation
PGM-DSFI
Fuel Tank Capacity
16.1L
Fuel Consumption
16.0km/litre
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Starter
Electric
Battery Capacity
12-6 YTZ7S
DRIVETRAIN
Clutch Type
Wet, multiplate hydraulic clutch with assist slipper
Transmission Type
6-speed
Final Drive
Chain
FRAME
Type
Aluminium composite twin spar
CHASSIS
Dimensions (L x W x H)
2100 x 745 x 1140mm
Wheelbase
1455mm
Caster Angle
24o
Trail
102mm
Seat Height
830mm
Ground Clearance
115mm
Kerb Weight
201kg
SUSPENSION
Type Front
Showa Telescopic inverted fork with an inner tube diameter of 43 mm, and a Big Piston Front Fork with preload, compression and rebound adjustment, 120mm stroke
SP: Telescopic inverted fork with inner
diameter of 43mm and Ohlins NPX Smart-
EC with preload, compression and
rebound adjustments. 125mm stroke.
Type Rear
Unit Pro-Link with gas-charged HMAS damper featuring 10-step preload and stepless compression and rebound damping adjustment, 137mm stroke.
Showa Balance-Free Rear Cushion with preload, compression and rebound adjustment.
SP: Pro-Link with gas-charged Ohlins TTX36 Smart-EC damper featuring preload, compression and rebound damping. 143mm stroke.
WHEELS
Rim Size Front
17 inch x 3.5
Rim Size Rear
17 inch x 6.0
Tyres Front
120/70-ZR17
Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP
Bridgestone RS11
Tyres Rear
200/55-ZR17
Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP
Bridgestone RS11
BRAKES
ABS System Type
2 Channel
Front
330mm disc with radial-mount 4-piston Nissin caliper
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!
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