Tag Archives: motorcycles

Deposits being taken on 2019 Suzuki Katana

Deposits of $1000 on the 2019 Suzuki Katana are now being taken for the bike which will be available in “limited numbers” and in two colour choices.

The reincarnated Katana was unveiled last month at the Intermot show in Cologne in traditional silver and black.2019 Katana deposits

This week a second “Glass Sparkle Black” version was unveiled at the EICMA show in Milan.2019 Suzuki atana deposits

Online deposits

Suzuki Australia spokesman Matt Reilly says they will only take orders for the bike online, “offering customers a premium buying experience along the way in the lead up to arrival in the third quarter of next year”.

“Australian pricing is not yet 100% confirmed and difficult to accurately forecast given the timeframe to the Katana’s Q3 2019 arrival,” he says.

“However, we have been advising customers that we are working very hard to secure the bike for under $20K ride away with 12 months’ registration.”

Deposits will cost $1000 and if you change your mind after three business days, Suzuki Australia will only refund $450.

The remaining $550 takes into account the “reasonable administrative costs Suzuki will incur as a result of your cancellation”.2019 Suzuki atana deposits

The first 50 customers to order a Katana will also receive a Katana-themed Arai QV-Pro helmet, valued at $995, with their bike delivery.

Online customers can nominate their preferred authorised Suzuki motorcycle dealer for delivery as well as arrange finance and insurance quotes and trade-in valuations.

Printed brochures are also available at Suzuki dealers.

If you can’t complete the online order, you can do it at the dealership.2019 Suzuki atana deposits

Matt says online ordering was launched at the Australian MotoGP.

“We have had a fantastic response to the online ordering system, receiving a greater number of orders than we originally expected within the first week of it being live,” he says.

“To say customers are excited about this new bike is a massive understatement.”

Suzuki Katana2019 Suzuki atana deposits

The 2019 Katana has several styling cues from the old Katana including sharp lines, sports screen, half-fairing, stepped two-tone seat, stubby black exhaust and rectangular headlight.

Modern styling changes and features include full LED lighting, a remote rear fender and a massive catalytic convertor underneath.

2019 Suzuki atana deposits

The biggest change is straight bars instead of clip-ons, so it might be ergonomically less painful to ride.

Power comes from a long-stroke version of the fuel-injected 999cc inline-four engine from the GSX-R1000 with 110kW at 10,000rpm and 108Nm of torque at 9500rpm.

That’s significantly tuned down from the GSX-R1000 which has 150kW at 13200rpm and 117.6Nm at 10,800rpm. It’s porkier too at 215kg compared with 202kg.

2019 Katana deposits

Features include a back-torque-limiting clutch, Suzuki’s three-mode Traction Control System, Fujico disc brakes with Brembo front brake calipers and ABS, and new tyres with a tubeless inner structure designed exclusively for the Katana.

Suzuki makes a point of saying the seat is comfortable, probably because the old Katana was notoriously uncomfortable. However, the seat is fairly high at 825mm.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com
https://motorbikewriter.com/deposits-suzuki-katana/

Indian FTR 1200 adds accessories packs

Even before the Indian FTR 1200 arrives there is already a host of accessories available for the bike including two types of Akrapovic slip-on titanium and stainless steel mufflers.

These accessories should help defray some of the criticism of the exhaust and plump seat. It may also thwart some of the aftermarket suppliers from producing their own accessories.

The four accessory packs are labelled Tracker, Rally, Sport, and Tour, two of which have high-mount Akrapovic exhausts similar to the FTR1200 Custom concept which was universally praised.

Indian Motorcycle Australia spokesman Peter Harvey says the parts are all individually available “to allow riders to build the bike in the style they prefer”. 

There is no discount pricing for buying the parts as a whole pack.

Indian FTR 1200 accessories

Here are the packs with American pricing. Australian pricing will be announced closer to launch in early 2019. 

Tracker

This collection features the high-mount titanium and steel Akrapovic slip-on muffler ($US1699.99) and mounting kit ($US79.99), plus side number plates ($US199.99), clear turn signal lenses ($US119.99), rally foot pegs ($US279.99), a high number plate mount ($US249.99), tracker seat ($US199.99) and seat cowl ($US299.99) and waffle handgrips ($US29.99).Indian FTR 1200 adds accessories

Rally

This off-roading collection also has the high-mount muffler and adds aluminium spoked wheels ($US1299.99), sport screen ($US149.99), front mudguard ($US299.99), rear mudguard ($US$199.99), aviator seat ($US$299.99), rally footpegs ($US279.99), high number plate mount ($US249.99), aluminium radiator guards ($US249.99), tank covers ($US449.99), Protaper handlebar ($US119.99).Indian FTR 1200 adds accessories

Sport

This is the smallest collection and emphasises on-road performance with a low-mount titanium and stainless steel Akrapovic slip-on muffler ($US1499.99) carbon fibre tank covers ($US599.99), carbon seat cowl ($US399.99) and carbon front mudguard ($US299.99).Indian FTR 1200 adds accessories

Tour

Touring range will be limited by the 13-litre fuel tank, but these accessories should make the ride more comfortable. The pack features the low-mount mufflers, plus a water-resistant messenger bag ($US279.99) for the left side of the bike only as the exhaust prohibits two side bags. It also includes a bag mounting kit ($US129.99), windshield ($US179.99) windshield mount ($US249.99), tank bag ($US279.99) and rear luggage rack ($US249.99).Indian FTR 1200 adds accessories

You can check out the accessories catalogue here, but note it has American pricing.

Indian FTR 1200 tech specs

  • Ride-away prices: $A19,995 (base black) $A22,995 (FTR 1200 S, red and grey or titanium and black) $A23,995 (Race-Replica)
  • Engine: 1203cc liquid-cooled, 60 degrees, DOHC, 4-valves per cylinder,  V-twin
  • Bore x stroke: 102mm x 73.6mm
  • Compression: 12.5:1
  • Power: 89kW @ 8250rpm
  • Torque: 115Nm @ 6000rpm
  • Transmission: 6-speed, chain drive
  • Suspension: 43mm USD forks; mono shock; 150mm travel
  • Dry weight: 221kg
  • Clearance: 183mm
  • Length: 2286mm
  • Seat: 840mm
  • Wheelbase: 1524mm
  • Lean angle: 43 degrees
  • Brakes: 320mm discs with 4-piston caliber; 265mm disc with 2-piston caliber, ABS
  • Tyres: 120/70R19; 150/80R18

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com
https://motorbikewriter.com/indian-ftr-1200-adds-accessories-packs/

Royal Enfield develops 834cc V-twin engine

Royal Enfield has only just unveiled their 650cc parallel-twin-engined Interceptor and Continental GT, but are already developing a bigger 834cc V-twin.

The Indian company unveiled the engine in a Bobber prototype soft-tail called the Concept KX to pay homage to their 1938 1140cc V-twin.

1938 Royal Enfield KX 1140 834cc
1938 Royal Enfield KX 1140

Interestingly it’s 834cc, but there is 838 stamped on the engine in their official video.Royal Enfield KX Concept bobber 834cc

While Royal Enfield says the KX will not go into production any time soon, it could be the start of a whole new line of cruiser models with the traditional cruiser-oriented V-twin format.

While the Bobber is designed along the lines of their 1938 model and has old-style girder fork, it has modern tech such as twin ByBre (cheaper Brembo version) brake discs, LED headlight, all-digital circular instrument pod (like the Ducati Scrambler) and an airbox that is part of the frame. Sounds as innovative as something Erik Buel would think up!

No more details on the bike are available, but it does look a lot like the very poplar Indian Scout right down to the dual right-right-side pipes and brown solo seat.

The new 834cc V-twin engine was probably developed in Leicestershire, England, were the Indian-owned company has built a research, design and development “technology centre”.

Enfield of India began assembling Bullet motorcycles under licence from the British company in 1956 and complete bikes by 1962.

The British company went bust in 1971 and Enfield of India was bought by heavy vehicle and bus maker Eicher in 1995.

Royal Enfield is now the oldest motorcycle brand in the world still in production while the Bullet model is the longest motorcycle production run of all time.

We will be very interested to see what other engines and bikes will come from the new UK tech centre!

The 650cc models certainly could do with a scrambler, street tracker and bobber.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com
https://motorbikewriter.com/royal-enfield-develops-834cc-v-twin-engine/

BMW extends ShiftCam technology

BMW Motorrad has extended its ShiftCam (variable valve timing) technology and 1254cc boxer engines to the rest of the R range.

It was introduced in September to the GS and RT 1250 models.

BMW R 1250 GS and RT Shiftcam
BMW R 1250 GS and RT

SiftCam technology now comes in all the other liquid-cooled boxers: the R 1250 R, RS and GS Adventure.

There is no word yet on when the 1254cc boxer bikes will arrive in Australia or their pricing.

Here is the official BMW Motorrad press release on the new models:

BMW boxer R models all get Shiftcam technology
BMW R 1250 R

Further advanced boxer engine with BMW ShiftCam Technology for an additional increase in power across the entire engine speed range, reduced emission and fuel consumption levels, optimised running smoothness and refinement.
With the extensively further advanced boxer engine, the new R 1250 R, R 1250 GS and R 1250 GS Adventure not only achieve a whole new level of power and torque. It was also possible to significantly optimise refinement and running smoothness – especially within the lower engine speed range. What is more, the new engine offers improved emission and fuel consumption levels as well as a particularly satisfying sound. For this purpose, BMW ShiftCam Technology has been used for the first time in the serial production of BMW Motorrad engines: this enables variation of the valve timings and valve stroke on the intake side. In addition, the intake camshafts are designed for asynchronous opening of the two intake valves, resulting in enhanced swirl of the fresh, incoming mixture and therefore more effective combustion. Other technical changes to the engine relate to the camshaft drive – now taken care of by a toothed chain (previously a roller chain) – an optimised oil supply, twin-jet injection valves and a new exhaust system.

Two riding modes, ASC and Hill Start Control as standard.
There are two riding modes available as standard in order to be able to adapt the motorcycle to individual rider preferences. The standard Automatic Stability Control ASC ensures a high level of riding safety due to the best possible traction. The set-off assistant Hill Start Control is likewise a standard feature in all three models, enabling convenient set-off on slopes.

Riding Modes Pro, featuring additional riding modes, Dynamic Traction Control DTC, ABS Pro, Hill Start Control Pro and Dynamic Brake Assistant DBC, available as an optional equipment ex works.
“Riding Modes Pro” is now available as an optional equipment item, featuring the additional riding mode “Dynamic” and “Dynamic Pro” (configurable), Dynamic Traction Control DTC, and in the R 1250 GS Adventure also the riding modes “Enduro” and “Enduro Pro” (configurable). DTC enables even more efficient and safe acceleration, especially when banking. ABS Pro offers even greater safety when braking, even in banking position. The new Dynamic Brake Control DBC provides additional safety when braking, also in difficult situations, by avoiding unintentional accelerator activation. By means of intervention in the engine control, drive torque is reduced during braking so as to make full use of the braking power at the rear wheel. This keeps the motorcycle stable and shortens the braking distance.

LED headlamp for the R 1250 RS and R 1250 GS Adventure as standard and LED daytime riding light for all three models as an ex works optional equipment item.
The new R 1250 RS and R 1250 GS Adventure now feature a LED headlamp as standard. In addition to this, the LED daytime riding light is available as an optional equipment item for the R 1250 RS and the R 1250 GS Adventure as well as for the R 1250 R, which has halogen headlamps.

BMW boxer R models all get Shiftcam technology
BMW R 1250 GS Adventure HP

Electronic suspension Dynamic ESA “Next Generation” with fully automatic load compensation as an option.
With the optional equipment item BMW Motorrad Dynamic ESA “Next Generation”, damping automatically adapts to the situation according to riding state and manoeuvres, and there is also automatic compensation in all load states. This allows finely tuned adaptation of the motorcycle to riding states, achieving optimum damping comfort and a very stable ride response.

Connectivity: Multifunctional instrument cluster with 6.5 inch full-colour TFT display offering many features as standard.
The three new boxer models now have the equipment feature Connectivity as standard including a 6.5-inch full-colour TFT screen. In conjunction with the standard BMW Motorrad Multi-Controller, this means the rider can access vehicle and connectivity functions particularly swiftly and conveniently.

Intelligent Emergency Call as an ex works option.
Ensuring the fastest possible assistance in the event of an accident or in situations of emergency and danger can save people’s lives. The optional equipment item Intelligent Emergency Call summons assistance to the scene as quickly as possible.
As before, this feature can be ordered for all three models.

BMW boxer R models all get Shiftcam technology
BMW R 1250 RS

BMW Motorrad Spezial – high-quality customisation features as optional equipment items ex works.
BMW Motorrad Spezial is range of iconic customisation features that enhance both performance and value, available as optional equipment items ex works. The focus is on harmonious integration in the vehicle as a whole, use of the very highest-quality materials, elaborate manual workmanship and characteristic attention to detail.

The billet packs Option 719 Classic and HP are available for the new boxer models, for example.

The new R 1250 R and R 1250 RS can also be equipped with the Option 719 Classic or Sport Wheels as well as the exclusive paintwork and the Option 719 seat.

An HP sports silencer is likewise available ex works for all three new boxer models.

New attractive colours and style variants.
The new boxer models feature one basic finish each as well as two striking style variants. The Option 718 Special Paint Finish is also available for the new R 1250 R and R 1240 RS.

The highlights of the new BMW R 1250 R, BMW R 1250 RS and BMW R 1250 GS Adventure:

  • Further developed boxer engine with BMW ShiftCam Technology for variation of the valve timings and valve stroke on the intake side.
  • Even more power across the entire engine speed range, optimised fuel consumption and emission levels, increased running smoothness and refinement.
  • Increased output and torque: 100 kW (136 hp) at 7 750 rpm and 143 Nm at 6 250 rpm (previously:92 kW (125 hp) / 125 Nm at 6 750 rpm and 125 Nm at 6 500 rpm.
  • Capacity increased to 1 254 cc (previously: 1 170 cc).
  • Asynchronous valve opening on the intake side for optimised swirl and therefore more effective combustion.
  • Camshaft drive now via toothed chain (previously roller chain)
  • Optimised oil supply and piston base cooling.
  • Knock sensor system for optimised travel suitability.
  • Latest generation of BMS-O engine control and use of twin-jet injection valves for even more effective carburetion.
  • New exhaust system for optimum performance characteristics.
  • Two riding modes, ASC and Hill Start Control as standard.
  • Riding Modes Pro, featuring additional riding modes, Dynamic Traction Control DTC, ABS Pro, Hill Start Control Pro and Dynamic Brake Assistant DBC, available as an optional equipment item ex works.
  • Electronic suspension Dynamic ESA “Next Generation” with fully automatic load compensation.
  • Standard adjustability of the seat height on the R 1250 GS Adventure (exception Style HP) as well as a wide range of seat height variants ex works.
  • New optional Sports Handlebars for R 1250 R for a more dynamic riding position.
  • In addition to standard adjustability of seat height (exception: HP style for the R 1250 GS Adventure), wide range of seat height variants ex works.
  • LED headlamp for the R 1250 RS (completely new design) and
    R 1250 GS Adventure as standard; LED daytime riding light for all  models as an ex works optional equipment item.
  • Connectivity: Multifunctional instrument cluster with 6.5 inch full-colour TFT display offering many features as standard.
  • Intelligent Emergency Call as an ex works option.
  • BMW Motorrad Spezial – customisation features as optional equipment items ex works.
  • Extended range of optional equipment items and original BMW Motorrad Accessories.
  • The new R 1250 R:
  • Dynamic naked bike character in one basic colour, two style variants and Option 719 Spezial finishes.
  • The new R 1250 RS: Sport and touring character in one basic colour, two style variants and Option 719 Spezial finishes.
  • New front spoiler and cockpit cover (R 1250 R and R 1250 RS).
  • Newly designed upper trim (R 1250 RS).
  • The new F 1250 GS Adventure: Off-road and adventure prowess in two modern basic finishes and two striking style variants.
  • R 1250 GS Adventure with new body features such as black-grained lid for storage compartment with embossed GS logo, trim for the intake snorkel, radiator trim with electroplated look, tank bracket and engine protection bars adapted to the design of the body frame.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com
https://motorbikewriter.com/bmw-extends-shiftcam-technology/

Harley-Davidson confirms electric arrival

Harley-Davidson Australia finally confirms that the electric LiveWire being released next year around the world will arrive in Australia and New Zealand in late 2020.

The bike made its European debut at the EICMA motorcycle show in Milan overnight where tech details were released.

However, there was nothing new that we had not heard when we inspected the production version at Harley’s 115th anniversary celebrations in Milwaukee in August.

Electric Harley-Davidson LiveWire leads parade smart desert charging
LiveWire unveiled in Milwaukee

Click here for all the tech details.

Unfortunately, there is still no mention of the all-important price, battery charging time or range.

HD Vice President of Product Planning and Portfolio Marc McAllister said the bike would be the first in “a portfolio of electric two-wheelers from Harley-Davidson” by 2020.

Click here for more details on the other small electric bikes, bicycles and scooters.

Harley plans adventure, streetfighters and electric bicycles first last small
Official Harley artist’s impression a small electric bike

In September, Harley boss Matt Levatich told me they were developing a new research and development facility in California’s Silicon Valley for its coming line of electric motorcycles and bicycles.

The new facility, serving as a satellite of the Willie G. Davidson Product Development Facility in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, is expected to open in the fourth quarter of 2018.

“This new R&D facility in the heart of Silicon Valley will help us deliver on those plans and demonstrate our commitment to lead the electrification of the sport,” Matt said.

Matt Levatich Harley-Davidson CEO politics silicon confirms
Matt at the 115th party

The new R&D centre will initially focus on electric vehicle research and development, including battery, power electronics and e-machine design, development and advanced manufacturing.

In March, Harley-Davidson acquired a stake in American electric dirt bike company Alta Motors.

The collaboration project finished  a few months later and last month Alta closed its doors.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com
https://motorbikewriter.com/harley-davidson-confirms-electric-arrival/

790 Adventure leads KTM assault

KTM Australia says the new 790 Adventure and R models will arrive here in June 2019, several months before its major new mid-mid-sized competitor, the Yamaha Ténéré 700.

The 790 Adventure is not the only new product from KTM on display at the EICMA motorcycle show in Milan.

They also feature the new 690 SMC R (arriving in March 2019), 690 Enduro R (April), 1290 Super Duke GT (February) and SX-E 5 mini electric trail bike (December).

The latter is a KTM version of the Husqvarna EE 5 electric minicycle, tapping into the Euro frenzy over electric motorcycles.

790 AdventureKTM 790 Adventure

The much anticipated 790 Adventure is powered by KTM’s new-generation LC8c 799cc in-line twin-engine with 70kW of power (95hp) and weighing in at only 189kg.

KTM claims 400km of range from the 20-litre tank. And it should all be smooth riding with two balancer shafts and long service intervals of 15,000km.KTM 790 Adventure

Suspension is, of course, WP, with 43mm forks, 200mm of travel, 233mm clearance and an 850mm seat height, compared with the Ténéré 700 at 880mm.

The engine sits in a CroMo steel frame with an open-lattice swingarm.

Finally, a manufacturer has provided an easy-to-adjust handlebar. It can be set in six different positions with a 30mm adjustment range making it comfortable no matter what size the rider and whether standing or sitting.

Instruments are in a 5-inch TFT display with a wide range of configurable information. The display varies according to light and the rev counter blinks to indicate when to shift.

KTM 790 Adventure

Electronic rider aids include traction control, cornering ABS, and an off-road mode with a smooth throttle response.

Other tasty features are LED lighting, steering damper and hefty 320mm twin discs with four-piston radially mounted callipers.

Factory accessories include an up/down quickshifter, heated grips and cruise control, as well as the usual protection parts and luggage.

KTM 790 Adventure R
790 Adventure R

The R model adds longer-travel 240mm suspension, Karoo 3 dirt tyres, 48mm WP XPLOR forks, upgraded shock and different bodywork.

1290 Super Duke GT

1290 Super Duke GT KTM 790 Adventure
1290 Super Duke GT

KTM engineers have tweaked the 1301cc 75° V-twin LC8 engine from the 1290 Super Duke R and revised resonator chambers, titanium inlet valves and a new mapping.

The result is only an kilowatt of power to 130kW, while torque is actually down 3Nm to 141Nm.

KTM has also added and up/down Quickshifter.

Electronic rider aids include lean angle sensitivity for braking power and traction control and different ride modes – including the optional ‘Track’ mode.

There is a new aerodynamic windshield developed in a wind tunnel with multiple height positions and improved one-handed adjustability.

The new 6.5-inch TFT full-colour screen is claimed to be visible in direct sunlight and has a variety of menus chock full of info.

KTM MY RIDE smartphone connectivity allows the rider to use phone functions (navigation, phone, music) via an app through the bike’s screen.

Cosmetically it now has a Duke family appearance and a new LED headlight with daytime running light and tank spoiler-mounted LED cornering lights.

The latest generation WP semi-active chassis has “deeper analysing sensors” to adjust to surface conditions with a switch to select damping for Comfort, Street and Sport.

There are two new storage compartments on the side of the tank for a mobile phone, wallet, etc. One side has a USB charging socket.

Heated grips come standard.

690 Enduro R

KTM 790 Adventure 690 ENDURO R
690 Enduro R

The 690 Enduro R returns in 2019 with several updates.

One of the best for long-range touring is the addition of two balancer shafts to smooth out the LC4 single.

It also now gets the super-duper fully-adjustable WP XPLOR suspension.

There are two changeable rider modes (off-road and street), cornering ABS and traction control.

Styling is now sharper and slimmer, with a redesigned seat.

690 SMC R

KTM 790 Adventure KTM 690 SMC R
690 SMC R

Also returning for 2019 is the R supermotard version with an advanced electronics package and 6kW more power to 55kW and 73.5Nm of torque.

It also features two balancer shafts and dual-spark cylinder head.

KTM promises improved rider ergonomics, multiple electronic rider aid systems and new WP suspension.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com
https://motorbikewriter.com/790-adventure-leads-ktm-assault/

Honda updates 2019 CB model range

Rather than new models or a radical V4-powered Fireblade as widely tipped, Honda showed up at the EICMA motorcycle show in Milan with a range of updated CB models including a more off-road-oriented CB500X (pictured).

2019 CB models

2019 Honda CB 500X
2019 Honda CB500X

Honda’s mid-sized CB range has been very popular in Australia for years, especially the more recent 500 models.

Leading the charge with desirable updates is the 2019 CB500X all-roader now with better dirt capabilities.

It features  increased suspension travel, more clearance, a 19-inch front wheel and a more aggressive tyre tread.

Meanwhile, the CBR650R replaces the CBR650F with more power, updated “Fireblade” styling, 5kg weight-loss, a more sporty riding position and a new LCD instrument panel.2019 Honda CB 650

The CBR500R also looks sportier redesign and the engine has been revised for better response in low-to-mid-range revs.

CB500F and CB650R now come with an assist/slipper clutch, a more powerful twin-cylinder engine and and cafe-racer styling.

2019 Fireblade2019 Honda Fireblade CB 1000 RR

The 2019 Fireblade gets an upgrade in its electronics package.

For example, traction and wheelie control are now separate so you can adjust them separately; ABS now has less intervention above 120km/h for 15% more deceleration; and the ride-by-wire throttle reacts faster for more engine braking and power delivery.

But that’s it for the updates, unless you consider new paint. The base model comes in black and silver or red and white, while the SP tricolour has darker blue accents.

We may have to wait another year for the rumoured V4 model.

There is no word yet from Honda Australia on when these updated models will arrive in Australia or pricing.

We expect they may hold off until floor stock is cleared.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com
https://motorbikewriter.com/honda-updates-2019-cb-model-range/

Aprilia RS 660 concept is half a Tuono

Aprilia has cleverly taken half a Tuono engine and made what they call an RS 660 Supersport twin concept machine.

It is powered by two cylinders from a Tuono/RSV4 1100 engine as a 660c parallel twin.

“This configuration was chosen for its compact nature and efficiency, the extremely low level of heat transmitted to the rider and for the freedom that it leaves the designers to create a sleek and lightweight frame and suspension,” Aprilia’s press release says.

The Austrian company says the RS 660 project is aimed at younger riders and shows the supersport market may not be quite dead yet.

They say it will also be the “development base for a wider range that intends to make Aprilia a key player in an extremely strategic market segment in Europe, but also in Asia and the American market”.

Although not mentioned, we should expect to see it in Australia to compete against the very popular mid-sized naked sector led by the Yamaha MT-07.

RS 660 aeroAprilia RS 660 concept is half a Tuono

Aprilia says the Concept RS 660 was developed out of a “series of aerodynamic studies” in a wind tunnel.

With fuel economy top of mind and emissions regulations tightening, motorcycle manufacturers are looking for ways to compete and aero remains one of the biggest hurdles to motorcycles, even more so than big, bulky cars.

Click there to find out how aero affects motorcycles.

Aprilia’s Concept RS 660 features a unique “variable front section” which can adjust air flow direction to vary downforce.

RS 600 has a large saddle and a comfortable riding position to suit most rider sizes.Aprilia RS 660 concept is half a Tuono

It is supported by a lightweight aluminium frame and swingarm with the engine as a stressed element.

The right arm of the swingarm has a curved shape to accomodate the exhaust, while the shock absorber mount is mounted directly to the swingarm with no linkage to reduce weight.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com
https://motorbikewriter.com/aprilia-rs-660-concept-tuono/

Husqvarna adds Svartpilen 701 flat tracker

Husqvarna Motorcycles has unveiled the production Svartpilen 701 flat tracker as well as the Vitpilen 701 Aero retro sports bike concept and the EE 5 electric minicycle at EICMA in Milan.

Husqvarna Motorcycles has unveiled the production Svartpilen 701 flat tracker as well as the Vitpilen 701 Aero retro sports bike and the EE 5
Vitpilen 701 Aero retro concept

Svartpilen 701

Husky calls the Svartpilen 701 a “street explorer”, but it is inspired by flat-trackers which are all the rage, especially since Indian Motorcycle unveiled its FTR 1200 recently.

Svartpilen means “black arrow” in Swedish and, like the Vitpilen (white arrow), it is powered by a lightweight 692.7cc, liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine with 56kW (75hp) of power  and 72Nm of torque.

Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 svarptilen
Husqvarna Vitpilen 701

There is no word yet on when it will arrive in Australia but the Vitpilen 701 sells for $17,500 (+ORC) which is a tall order for a single-cylinder bike in this market.

The lightweight trellis frame is made with high-grade chromium molybdenum steel, the suspension is fully-adjustable WP and brakes are Brembo brakes with Bosch’s latest switchable ABS.

It has ride-by-wire throttle, slipper clutch and Up/down quickshifter and a big range of dedicated Husqvarna accessories.

Husqvarna Motorcycles has unveiled the production Svartpilen 701 flat tracker as well as the Vitpilen 701 Aero retro sports bike and the EE 5
Svartpilen 701

Vitpilen 701 Aero ConceptHusqvarna Motorcycles has unveiled the production Svartpilen 701 flat tracker as well as the Vitpilen 701 Aero retro sports bike and the EE 5

Husky describes this as “a modern faired sport bike with an innovative design approach that pays its respect to the past”.

Again it is powered by the 692.7cc single.

EE 5Husqvarna Motorcycles has unveiled the production Svartpilen 701 flat tracker as well as the Vitpilen 701 Aero retro sports bike and the EE 5

Europe is literally buzzing with small electric motorcycles, so Husky has jumped on the bandwagon with the EE 5 mini trail bike.

They say it has the latest in high-quality componentry, a 5kW motor, six ride modes, 907Wh lithium-ion battery, quick charging, and WP suspension.

It will be available at Husqvarna Motorcycles dealers in mid-2019, but we doubt we will see it here.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com
https://motorbikewriter.com/husqvarna-svartpilen-701/

80-year-old Malaguti brand returns

Over the past few years we have seen old motorcycle brands return to the market and more to come including little-known 80-year-old Italian brand Malaguti.

Brands that have returned include Bultaco, Brough, Hesketh, Levis, Matchless and Norton and there are several more to come including Jawa, Cagiva and BSA.

Now Austrian KSR Group has announced at the EICMA motorcycle show in Milan that they have bought Italian brand Malaguti.

They will launch next year with six models, five being single-cylinder 125cc road and trail bikes and a 300cc scooter.

Malaguti Montepro125
Malaguti Montepro125

Malaguti was founded in 1930 by Antonino Malaguti in San Lazzaro di Savena, a suburb of the traditional university town of Bologna, as a bicycle dealership and repair shop.

The passionate cyclist began to make his own bicycles soon afterwards. From 1949 onwards, he built bicycles with auxiliary engines, soon after that also small motorcycles, finally also scooters.

In contrast to other manufacturers, he refused to participate in the “arms race” of motorcycle manufacturers with increasingly larger and more expensive models.

He concentrated on smaller bikes for younger riders.

Similarly, this new breed are small bikes.

KSR Group has partnered with an unidentified production partner, but claims the bikes are equipped with “reliable and proven Italian technology”.

The models presented in Milan are powered by water-cooled injection engines developed by Aprilia.

Their 125cc engines have 11kW of power for use in Europe by riders with novice A1 licences.

Malaguti

Malaguti

The Supermoto XSM 125, cross-country XTM 125, naked Monte Pro 125, RST 125 and Dune 125 will be made from February 2019.

Madison 300 will be the Italian company’s first scooter and will be available from April 2019.

Malaguti Madison300 scooter
Malaguti Madison300 scooter

They will hit the European market at €2999 for the XSM and XTM models.

There is no word on other prices or whether they will be exported outside Europe.

The Austrian owners say they will also produce Malaguti motorcycles with larger displacement and a three-wheeled scooter.

As a supplier of electric two-wheelers, KSR will also develop electric Malaguti motorcycles and scooters.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com
https://motorbikewriter.com/80-year-old-malaguti-brand-returns/