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2022 CFMOTO 700CL-X | Road Test Review

December 1, 2022 mcnews Leave a comment

Last summer I traveled to Minnesota, home of the CFMOTO U.S. headquarters, to test the company’s new lineup of motorcycles. On a flat, paved, tar-snaked road course at the Minnesota Highway Safety & Research Center, about a dozen journalists and influencers buzzed around on bikes ranging from the 125cc Papio minibike to the 800 ADVentura adventure bike.

Launches featuring multiple bikes are like eating at a buffet: You get to taste a little bit of everything, but you don’t get the full experience of a dedicated entree. After the day at the track, I logged 350 miles on the 650 ADVentura, an affordable, middleweight adventure-styled touring bike with saddlebags, and I got to know the bike better.

But the CFMOTO I kept thinking about was the 700CL-X, a feisty middleweight naked bike with scrambler styling.

At the end of the trackday, when all the photography was done and we were given free reign, I hopped aboard the 700CL-X and played cat-and-mouse with two of my fellow scribes. John Burns was on the 800 ADVentura, and Ron Lieback was on the 650NK naked bike.

Our bikes were like the Three Bears. Papa Bear was the 800 ADVentura, with a 799cc parallel-Twin that cranks out 95 hp with a curb weight of 509 lb. Mama Bear was the 700CL-X, with a 693cc parallel-Twin that makes 74 hp and weighing 426 lb. Though hardly a toddler like CFMOTO’s Papio, Baby Bear was the 650NK with a 649cc parallel-Twin that makes 60 hp and has a weight of 454 lb.

Try as we might, with pegs scraped and boot soles beveled, we could not break ranks. We’d bunch up in the corners, but John and I protected our lines so there were no chances to overtake. We’d draft each other heading onto the front straight and then pull three abreast with the throttles pinned, but there was no fighting the displacement advantage. Burns would pull ahead of me, and Lieback would be on my six, filling my mirrors.

Chasing buddies around a track for bragging rights over beers is always fun, but beyond that, I was really digging the 700CL-X. A wide, upright tubular handlebar gives it good steering leverage, and its light weight made it easy to throw into a corner or weave around the chicanes made of traffic cones. The real kicker was the 700CL-X’s throttle response. In Sport mode, giving it the whip revved up the Twin, and at around 7,000 rpm, there was a loud below from the exhaust and a surge in thrust, almost like V-Boost on the old Yamaha V-Max. Having a $6,499 motorcycle deliver that sort of thrill took me by surprise, and I wondered, What is this thing?

CFMOTO 101

Although well-established in the U.S. market in the ATV and side-by-side segments, CFMOTO is not a familiar brand for most American motorcyclists. Founded in 1989, the Chinese company’s first decade was focused on supplying parts, components, and engines to major powersports manufacturers. In 2000, CFMOTO began building motorcycles, scooters, and off-road vehicles.

CFMOTO has been selling its off-road vehicles in the U.S. since 2002, and after gaining a solid foothold in that market, it established its U.S. headquarters near Minneapolis. In 2012, CFMOTO began importing motorcycles to the U.S., but it met with limited success and pulled out a few years later. Reviews of CFMOTO’s motorcycles were generally positive, but American buyers are averse to new brands. Furthermore, many view Chinese-made motorcycles as being of inferior quality to those made in Japan, Europe, or the U.S.

Thanks to its well-established production expertise and capacity, in 2014 CFMOTO entered a strategic partnership with KTM and began manufacturing 200 Dukes and 390 Dukes for the Chinese market. In 2018, the two companies started a joint venture that allows CFMOTO to license and manufacture some of KTM’s engines. CFMOTO’s 800 ADVentura is powered by the 799cc LC8c parallel-Twin from KTM’s 790 Adventure. Starting in 2023, KTM’s parent company Pierer Mobility will distribute CFMOTO’s motorcycles in some European markets, an arrangement similar to the recent announcement that KTM North America will soon take over distribution of MV Agusta motorcycles in the U.S.

While brand or country of origin are important for some buyers, others place a higher priority on style, performance, price, reliability, and dealer experience/proximity. With an MSRP of $6,499, the 700CL-X offers good value and is less expensive than other middleweight naked bikes like the Honda CB650R ($9,299), Kawasaki Z650 ABS ($8,249), Suzuki SV650 ABS ($7,849), Triumph Trident 660 ($8,395), and Yamaha MT-07 ($8,199). The 700CL-X is covered by a two-year, unlimited-mileage warranty, and CFMOTO has about 200 motorcycle dealers in the U.S.

Here’s Lookin’ at You

Through its partnership with KTM, CFMOTO’s motorcycles are styled by Kiska. With its minimalist profile, tubular handlebar, bobtail with a one-piece seat, Y-spoke cast wheels with an 18-inch front, and Pirelli MT60 semi-knobby tires, the 700CL-X has the stance of a street tracker. Retro touches include a round headlight, a round gauge cluster, a single front disc, and a stubby exhaust shaped like a Foster’s Oil Can. One can see hints of the Ducati Scrambler in the 700CL-X’s tubular-steel frame, brushed aluminum tank panels, swingarm-mounted license plate carrier, and machined finishes on its engine’s faux cooling fins.

With the exception of its switchgear and the layout of its LCD instrument panel, the 700CL-X doesn’t look cheap, and its fit and finish are on par with more expensive bikes. It is illuminated front and rear by LEDs, and it has a unique, bright-white headlight surround shaped like one of those Craftsman four-way flathead screwdrivers I used to have on my keychain. The turnsignals are self-canceling, the clutch and brake levers are adjustable for reach, the brake lines are steel braided, and the cleated footpegs have removable rubber inserts.

Motorcycles at this price point are usually limited to basic features, but the 700CL-X has throttle-by-wire with two ride modes (Eco and Sport), a slip/assist clutch, standard ABS, and cruise control. Most notable, in a class where the most one can typically hope for is spring preload adjustment, often only at the rear, the 700CL-X has a fully adjustable 41mm inverted KYB fork and a linkage-mounted KYB shock with a progressive spring rate and adjustable preload and rebound. Brakes are supplied by J.Juan (a Brembo subsidiary in Spain), with a radial-mount 4-piston front caliper squeezing a 320mm disc and a 2-piston rear caliper pinching a 260mm disc.

Time to Ride

The 700CL-X is very approachable. Its dished seat is 31.5 inches high and provides decent support. The bike feels compact and light, and the tall handlebar allows the rider to sit mostly upright. Thumb the starter, and the CFMOTO’s 693cc DOHC parallel-Twin burbles to life, settling into a syncopated rumble. The engine compresses fuel and air with forged pistons that move up and down via fracture-split connecting rods.

Roll on the throttle, and the engine spins up quickly with no drama. Concerns about vibration and heat never crossed my mind, and the throttle-by-wire delivers crisp response without any vagueness or abruptness. When we rolled the 700CL-X into Jett Tuning’s dyno room and John Ethell ran it on the big drum, it sent 62 hp at 9,200 rpm (redline is 9,500) and 41.6 lb-ft of torque at 7,400 rpm to the rear wheel. The dyno curves show a notable bump above 7,000 rpm that corresponds with that boost sensation I mentioned earlier – a little extra kick in the pants to keep things lively.

Lightweight, modestly powered bikes like the 700CL-X are some of my favorites to ride. Unlike today’s liter-class fire-breathing beasts, I don’t feel any guilt about not being able to use the bike’s full power, nor inadequacy for not being able to exploit its capabilities. I mostly kept it in Sport mode because the milder throttle response of Eco mode felt like a letdown. If I were commuting or taking a weekend escape, then I’d use Eco and cruise control to conserve fuel.

But all I did on this test ride was flog the darn thing – I couldn’t help myself, and my fuel economy suffered accordingly. Pushing the 700CL-X hard through a series of curves was a blast, taking me right back to the fun I had last summer chasing John Burns and outrunning Ron Lieback. Some bikes just bring out my hyperactive inner child.

While the 700CL-X was solid and responsive and its suspension took a hammering without complaint, the single-disc front brake wasn’t quite up to the task. Stopping power was decent, but feedback at the lever was numb, and it exhibited some fade after repeated hard stops. A second front disc would probably help – or an upgrade like the setup found on CFMOTO’s 700CL-X Sport, a cafe racer version with top-shelf Brembo Stylema front calipers and an MSRP of $6,999.

After logging hundreds of miles on the 700CL-X on city streets, freeways, and winding backroads, there were a few things that left me wanting. The first is the small fuel tank, which holds just 3.5 gallons. (Other bikes in this class have fuel capacities ranging from 3.7-4.1 gallons.) During this test, I averaged 41 mpg, which works out to 143 miles of range. Exhibiting more throttle restraint is the sensible solution, but where’s the fun in that? I’d rather have more fuel to burn.

The second is the instrument panel. When less expensive bikes like the KTM 390 Duke – which CFMOTO builds for the Chinese market – have color TFT displays, the monochrome LCD display on the 700CL-X seems like an unfortunate way to save a few bucks. Other than the road in front of us, the instrument panel is the main thing we look at when riding. The 700CL-X’s gauge provides plenty of info, but the perimeter tachometer is hard to read, the text for some of the info functions is too small, and I couldn’t figure out how to reset the tripmeter without also advancing the clock by one hour. If I didn’t do the time warp again with each fill-up, I had to press the “Adjust” button 23 more times to correct it.

Lastly, the self-canceling turnsignals shut off too early. Hit the button and they’ll flash four or five times and then stop, which sometimes happens before the turn is executed.

GEAR UP:

Good Times

Over the past 15 years, I’ve ridden and tested hundreds of new motorcycles of nearly every size, configuration, and style. Because my passion for motorcycles runs deep and my tastes are omnivorous, I can honestly say I’ve enjoyed every motorcycle I’ve ridden. Some aligned with expectations, some fell a bit short, and a few went above and beyond, exceeding expectations because something about their styling, character, or performance – or all three – felt special.

That happened to me last summer. As I worked my way up through CFMOTO’s eight-model lineup, the 700CL-X caught my eye because I like scrambler styling and I’m a sucker for gold wheels (which come with the Coal Grey colorway; the Twilight Blue colorway has black wheels). Then I rode it and was surprised by how responsive the engine was, especially that extra kick above 7,000 rpm, and it had a nice bark to its exhaust. It was also light, agile, and fun to ride.

The 700CL-X exceeded my expectations – not just for a motorcycle built in China, but for any motorcycle at this price point.

2022 CFMOTO 700CL-X Specs

Base Price: $6,499

Warranty: 2 yrs., unltd. miles

Website: CFMOTOusa.com

Engine

Type: Liquid-cooled, transverse parallel-Twin, DOHC w/ 4 valves per cyl.
Displacement: 693cc
Bore x Stroke: 83 x 64mm
Compression Ratio: 11.6:1
Valve Insp. Interval: 24,800 miles
Fuel Delivery: Bosch EFI w/ throttle-by-wire
Lubrication System: Wet sump, 2.3 qt. cap.
Transmission: 6-speed, cable-actuated wet slip/assist clutch
Final Drive: Chain

Chassis

Frame: Tubular chromoly-steel trellis w/ cast aluminum swingarm
Wheelbase: 56.5 in.
Rake/Trail: 24.5 degrees/4.3 in.
Seat Height: 31.5 in.
Suspension, Front: 41mm inverted fork, fully adj., 5.9 in. travel
Rear: Single shock w/ linkage, adj. spring preload & rebound, 5.9 in. travel
Brakes, Front: 320mm disc w/ radial-mount 4-piston caliper & ABS
Rear: 260mm disc w/ 2-piston caliper & ABS
Wheels, Front: Cast aluminum, 3.50 x 18 in.
Rear: Cast aluminum, 4.50 x 17 in.
Tires, Front: Tubeless, 110/80-R18
Rear: Tubeless, 180/55-R17
Wet Weight: 426 lb
Load Capacity: 368 lb
GVWR: 794 lb

Performance

Horsepower: 62 hp @ 9,400 rpm (rear-wheel dyno)
Torque: 41.6 lb-ft @ 7,400 rpm (rear-wheel dyno)
Fuel Capacity: 3.5 gals
Fuel Consumption: 41 mpg
Estimated Range: 143 miles

The post 2022 CFMOTO 700CL-X | Road Test Review first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

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2023 KTM 790 Duke and 1290 Super Duke GT | First Look Review

November 23, 2022 mcnews Leave a comment

2023 KTM 1290 SUPERDUKE GT — 2023 KTM 1290 Super Duke GT

KTM North America Inc. has announced the 2023 Duke and Super Duke Duke range. After a brief hiatus, the 790 Duke and 1290 Super Duke GT will be back in KTM’s lineup, and they’re joined by the returning 890 Duke R and 1290 Super Duke R Evo. The 2023 KTM Duke and Super Duke range will begin shipping to authorized KTM dealers in December 2022, but pricing has not yet been announced.

2023 KTM 790 Duke

Introduced in 2017, the KTM 790 Duke sold more than 29,000 units, and was later upgraded to the 890 Duke. KTM says the 2023 790 Duke is a “true mid-range motorcycle” that joins the 890 Duke R to fill the gap between the 390 Duke and the 1290 Super Duke R Evo.

The 790 Duke will be powered by KTM’s LC8c parallel-Twin DOHC engine with 799cc of displacement and two balancer shafts for smooth power delivery and minimum vibration.

The 2023 KTM 790 Duke features throttle-by-wire, a PASC slip/assist clutch, three ride modes (Rain, Street, and Sport), lean-angle- sensitive Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC), cornering ABS with Supermoto mode, a full-color 5-inch TFT display, and LED lights front and back.

Optional features include Quickshifter+, Motor Slip Regulation (MSR), cruise control, tire-pressure monitoring, and Track mode, which includes traction control slip adjuster, anti-wheelie mode, launch control, and three levels of throttle response variation. The bike has a 3.7-gal tank and a dry weight of 383.6 lb.

In terms of looks, the 2023 KTM 790 Duke introduces two new colorways to the mix: a traditional KTM orange scheme and an all-new gray and black motif.

2023 KTM 1290 Super Duke GT

The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT sport-touring bike has also returned to North America for 2023. KTM says the bike was “designed to offer riders a unique Grand Touring experience but engineered to be a true Sports bike underneath the touring parts.”

The 2023 KTM 1290 Super Duke GT has enhanced emissions control and a reworked 1,301cc LC8 V-twin engine and the same standard features of the 1290 Super Duke R Evo.

However, the WP APEX semi-active suspension on the 1290 Super Duke GT has been geared for the long-distance tourer, enabling the rider to set the suspension according to four different riding situations: Rider, Rider & Pillion, Rider & Luggage, or Rider, Pillion & Luggage. On top of that, the anti-dive function is fitted as standard. The larger 6.1-gal tank also contributes to the touring capabilities.

The wheels are also the same as the 1290 Super Duke R Evo and boast a weight savings of 2.2 lb of unsprung mass over the old set of rims. These all-new lightweight wheels are wrapped in new Continental ContiSportAttack 4 tires, boasting a sportier and more stable riding experience while delivering on the demand for a sportier tire to match the bike’s versatility. The 1290 Super Duke GT has a dry weight of 476 lb.

A new 7-inch TFT display has a newly designed layout, and the setup is completed by the new switchgear that KTM says not only feels premium but also allows for intuitive interaction between the rider and the dash itself.

The 2023 KTM 1290 Super Duke GT will also debut an all-new navigation system called Turn-by-Turn Plus, which will be available via KTMconnect and further enhance the touring experience. TBT+ allows navigation instructions to be projected directly on the TFT display.

Powered by SYGIC, TBT+ can also operate offline, allowing riders to plan their journey and adventure from remote locations, with the Navigation feature using industry-standard mapping to guide riders to their destination of choice. There’s also an advanced search feature and a diverse range of POIs including gas stations, restaurants, and rest stops. Or you can select one of your pre-saved destinations directly from the TFT dash.

The new system also allows for waypoints to be skipped without prompting a turnaround. The system will merely recalculate and find the next available route to get you back on track. Also, the last 10 destinations searched are automatically saved and available directly on the dashboard.

2023 KTM 890 Duke R

KTM says the 790 Duke is great for introducing a new generation of riders to the world of the Duke naked bike, “and when they’re ready to take things to the next level, the 2023 KTM 890 Duke R is waiting.” The company added that the 890 Duke R is as comfortable on mountain roads as it is on the track.

In addition to the standard features mentioned above for the 790 Duke, the 2023 KTM 890 Duke R has adjustable, track-ready WP APEX suspension, monoblock Brembo Stylema calipers grabbing 320mm front discs, and Michelin Power Cup II tires. The bike has a 3.7-gal tank and a dry weight of 377 lb.

2023 KTM 1290 Super Duke R Evo

Taking it up a notch, KTM’s flagship street motorcycle, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R Evo, underwent its most significant update in 2020, boasting a number of tweaks and engineering improvements, including a reworked 1,301cc LC8 engine and an all-new chassis.

In 2022, the latest incarnation of “The Beast” was launched with the same LC8 engine making a claimed 180 hp and 103 lb-ft of torque. The bike was dubbed the “Evo” thanks to the evolution of the second-generation WP APEX Semi Active Suspension with damping adjusted in real-time based on conditions in three preset modes: Sport, Street, and Comfort. Rear spring preload can be set via the TFT display’s menu over a 20mm range in 2mm increments.

KTM says the 2023 KTM 1290 Super Duke R Evo has “the most power and torque in the family and the most advanced electronics to keep it all under control.” The bike features Motorcycle Stability Control (MSC) with cornering ABS by Bosch including Supermoto ABS, ride mode technology, and multi-stage, lean-angle sensitive Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC) using a 6 axis lean angle sensor, and cruise control. The bike has a 4.2-gal tank and a dry weight of 441 lb.

For more information, visit the KTM website.

The post 2023 KTM 790 Duke and 1290 Super Duke GT | First Look Review first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

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New and Updated 2023 Aprilia, Moto Guzzi, Piaggio, and Vespa Models

November 11, 2022 mcnews Leave a comment

At the EICMA show in Italy, the Piaggio Group introduced the new Aprilia ELECTRICa project, as well as several updated models in the company’s brand range, including the following:

Aprilia RS 660 Extrema
V7 Stone Special Edition and V9 Bobber Special Edition
Piaggio 1
Vespa GTV, Primavera Color Vibe, and 946 10° Anniversario

The Piaggio Group said its brands have “accepted the challenge of a changing world, introducing a vast offer of vehicles capable of meeting any mobility needs.” Pricing and availability dates of the new models have yet to be provided.

2023 Aprilia ELECTRICa Project

Although the Piaggio Group has been working on electric propulsion since 1975 – including releasing the first hybrid scooter in the world, the MP3 Hybrid, in 2009 – the Aprilia ELECTRICa project is a new concept for the company. Piaggio says the lightweight electric bike is the company’s response to the changing commuting needs in the world with a nod to “the thrilling riding experience that only a bike can provide.”

The electric motor on the ELECTRICa is positioned in the center and powers a chain final drive. The bike includes keyless ignition and LCD instrumentation. The aesthetics of the ELECTRICa carry the familiar Aprilia style, especially the modern interpretation of the triple headlamp cluster typical of all Aprilias.

The bike has compact dimensions and a low saddle height, and the company says the presence of both brake controls on the handlebar makes the transition from scooters easier.

Exact specifications, pricing, and availability were not available as of publication.

2023 Aprilia RS 660 Extrema

The 2023 Aprilia RS 660 Extrema is the sportiest and lightest RS 660 in the range, with updated and new standard equipment.

Related Story: 2021 Aprilia RS 660 | Video Review

The Aprilia RS 660 has a liquid-cooled 659cc DOHC parallel-Twin making a claimed 100 hp and 49.4 lb-ft of torque at 8,500 rpm.

The 2023 RS 660 Extrema features a lighter street-legal exhaust system by SC Project with a carbon silencer positioned on the right side (and no longer beneath the engine). Also contributing to the overall reduction in weight are the carbon front fender and the new carbon engine undercover. Wet weight is a claimed 366 lb.

The RS 660 Extrema sport attributes are emphasized by the single-seat tail fairing (the passenger’s seat comes with the bike). Standard electronics on the RS 660 include traction control, cornering ABS, engine brake, engine map, and wheelie control – all adjustable – as well as five ride modes (Road and Track, three fixed and two customizable). The RS 660 Extrema also has software that allows the rider to set up the standard quick shift in a reverse-shift pattern without having to replace any bike components.

Pricing and availability of the RS 660 Extrema were not available as of publication, but we expect an MSRP north of $11,599, the list price of the 2022 Aprilia RS 660.

2023 Moto Guzzi V9 Bobber Special Edition

Introduced as a ready-to-ride factory bobber in 2016, the Moto Guzzi V9 Bobber has an air- and oil-cooled longitudinal 853cc 90-degree V-Twin making a claimed 65 hp and 53.8 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm.

The engine sits in a twin-tube steel cradle frame. Suspension is basic, with a nonadjustable 40mm fork on the front and preload adjustable rear shocks. Stopping power comes from Brembo opposed 4-piston calipers grabbing a 320mm stainless steel floating disc up front and Brembo 2-piston calipers and a 260mm floating disc in the back. The 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels are still shod in the V9 Bobber’s characteristic oversized tires (130/90 up front, 150/80 rear).

Piaggio says the 30.9-inch seat height contributes to the bobber’s “sporty, active, and extended riding position.” The V9 Bobber has a 4.0-gal fuel tank, and the bike comes in with an overall wet weight of 463 lb.

The new Moto Guzzi V9 Bobber Special Edition boasts a special Workshop twin-tone black and grey color scheme that enhances the teardrop fuel tank shape and extends to the aluminum side panels. A billet aluminum cap is a high-end touch.

The matte black brings out the Moto Guzzi branding milled on the aluminum cylinder head covers, and the familiar sound of the Moto Guzzi 850 twin cylinder is highlighted by the exhaust painted matte black with an aluminum bottom. Bar-end mirrors mounted at the ends of the handlebar, along with the fork seals and the short front fender, complete the equipment.

Pricing and availability on the 2023 Moto Guzzi V9 Bobber Special Edition were not available.

2023 Moto Guzzi V7 Stone Special Edition

The Moto Guzzi V7 Stone was updated for 2021 with a larger air-cooled 853cc longitudinal 90-degree V-Twin making a claimed 65 hp at 6,800 rpm and 54 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm. Other updates included reduced effort from the single-disc dry clutch, a stiffer frame and bigger swingarm with a new bevel gear for the cardan shaft drive, revised damping and a longer stroke for the preload-adjustable rear shocks, an updated ABS module, and more.

The 2023 Moto Guzzi V7 Stone Special Edition features a new Arrow exhaust system, which the company says has led to gains in performance, bumping up to 65.7 hp at 6,700 rpm and 55.3 lb-ft of torque at 4,900 rpm.

From a visual standpoint, Moto Guzzi has swapped out the matte shades typical of the Stone version for a special Shining Black color scheme, enhanced on the tank with graphics and red details that recall the style traits of the Eagle brand’s sportiest models.

This sport attitude is also highlighted by the red shock springs and contrasting red stitching of the saddle, also specific to this model. A plate on the handlebar riser identifies its special edition status, and the equipment package also includes bar-end rearview mirrors and an anodized black billet aluminum fuel cap.

Previous V7 Stone models started at $8,990. Pricing and availability of the 2023 Moto Guzzi V7 Stone Special Edition were not available at publication.

2023 Piaggio 1

Piaggio has upgraded the electric motor that powers Piaggio 1 range to deliver better performance. The moped version (Piaggio 1) has a claimed 3.1 hp from its motor built into the rear wheel and has a top speed limited to 27 mph. The motorbike version (Piaggio 1 Active) reaches 4 hp and has a top speed of TK mph. Piaggio says acceleration has increased 14% on Piaggio 1 and almost 12% on Piaggio 1 Active.

The 2023 Piaggio 1 has a full technological package that includes 5.5-inch digital color instrumentation, full LED lighting, and keyless ignition. It also has an underseat storage compartment large enough to hold a full helmet.

The previous Piaggio 1+ model had a claimed range of approximately 62 miles in ECO mode and 42 miles in Sport mode, while the Piaggio 1 Active claimed 53 miles in ECO and 41 miles in Sport mode.

With both the versions, the battery is located beneath the seat and is easily removable and portable so it can be charged at home or in the office.

2023 Vespa GTV

It has been four years since the last version of a Vespa scooter was launched, but at the beginning of October, the Piaggio Group announced the release of the new 2023 Vespa GTS range, featuring a 4-stroke, liquid-cooled 300cc high-performance engine (HPE) offering a claimed 23.8 hp at 8,250 rpm.

Built on the Vespa GTS base, the Vespa GTV maintains the traits of its origins but combines them with a new technological equipment package and new finishes, which Vespa says results in “an extraordinary marriage of tradition and modernity, classicism and aggressiveness, which manifests itself in the most authentically sporty Vespa ever.”

The low headlamp is LED, and the new instrumentation maintains the circular shape but is entirely digital and displays maximum speed, average speed, instant and average mileage, range, and battery charge status, as well as all call, message, and music notifications if the vehicle is connected to a smartphone through the Vespa MIA system (available as a separate accessory).

The instrumentation is connected to the handlebar using a cantilevered bracket and enveloped by a small top fairing with sport inspiration. At the center of the front shield, the Vespa “neck-tie” has lateral slits and is enhanced by decorations with orange edging. A USB port comes as standard equipment, located in the storage compartment on the back of the shield.

The Vespa GTV has a single-seat two-tone saddle with a racing look, and the rear part is designed for a hard cover color-coded to match the body and reminiscent of the typical racing Vespa fairings.

The five-spoke design of the wheel rims is also new – painted matte black with an orange graphic on the channel. On the safety front, standard features include ASR electronic traction control and ABS.

Vespa Primavera Color Vibe

The Piaggio Group says the new Vespa Primavera Color Vibe is a “tribute to the colourful and carefree Vespa universe.”

The Primavera range features air-cooled i-get (Italian Green Experience Technology) 4-stroke engines available in 50cc and 150cc versions. The new Primavera Color Vibe is characterized by a special two-tone livery: the body, available in the Arancio Impulsivo and Bianco Innocente shades, is matched with a footboard in Ottanio, a shade of turquoise.

2023 Vespa Primavera Color Vibe in Bianco Innocente

A contrasting color “stain” is outlined in black and runs diagonally across the entire body through the dedicated graphics on the sides of the front shield and side panels. The decorations of the steering cover on the front shield are also in Ottanio, as well as the wheel rims, which were made exclusively for this version in a special glossy metallic finish.

Finally, the outfitting is completed by sporty black trim for the headlamp and taillight frames, the profile that runs along the front shield, the crest on the front fender, the front suspension spring and guard, the passenger grab handle, and the muffler cover. The saddle is black with anthracite stitching.

Vespa 946 10° Anniversario

The Vespa 946 special 10° Anniversario outfit has an exclusive dedicated color that represents a modern take on the classic Vespa green shade, a color that is described as “soft and velvety, but has a hint of acidity.” The pearlescent color appears pastel at first glance, but then gains depth with illumination.

The post New and Updated 2023 Aprilia, Moto Guzzi, Piaggio, and Vespa Models first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

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2023 Ducati Scrambler Range | First Look Review

November 11, 2022 mcnews Leave a comment

Ducati has announced details for the new 2023 Ducati Scrambler family, which includes the Icon, Full Throttle, and Nightshift. The company says the Scrambler has always combined fun, technology, safety, and ease of use, and adds that the new generation continues this trend.

See all of Rider’s Ducati coverage, including other new 2023 models, here.

The 2023 Ducati Scrambler Function and Form

The 2023 Ducati Scrambler range will still feature the air-cooled 803cc L-Twin with a desmodromic valve system making a claimed 73 hp and 48.1 lb-ft of torque at 7,000 rpm (compared to the 2022 Scrambler Motard’s claimed 48.5 lb-ft at 5,750 rpm) with a 6-speed gearbox (Ducati Quick Shift is standard on the Full Throttle), a slip-assist clutch, and chain final drive.

The new engine is 5.5 lb lighter than the previous generation and has been equipped with a new eight-disc clutch, which Ducati says is softer in operation. The clutch is also more compact, which has made it possible to reduce the size of the right side cover and offer more space for the rider’s foot. The new Ducati Scrambler is also equipped with a transmission shift drum mounted on bearings.

The 2023 Scrambler frame is still a trellis design but has also been updated and lightened, with a redesigned swingarm and a repositioned shock absorber. And for custom bike builders, the rear sub-frame is now easily removable without modifying the frame.

The 2023 Ducati Scramblers now have electronic management of the Ride by Wire throttle, which Ducati says “makes the engine response ready at every throttle position, but always progressive and easy to manage at all revs.” It allows the adoption of Ducati Traction Control and two Riding Modes: Road and Wet. The standard equipment is completed by ABS Cornering.

Riding improvements also come from a slightly increased steering angle. The wheels are a completely renewed design with 18 and 17 inches respectively at the front and rear (light alloy on the Icon and Full Throttle and spoked aluminum on the Nightshift).

All said and done, the bike has been lightened by 8.8 lb for total wet weights of 408 lb. on the Icon and Full Throttle and 421 lb. on the Nightshift.

Related Story: Video Review | 2018 Ducati Scrambler 1100

Perhaps as important when it comes to the Scrambler is the style, and Ducati says the design of the 2023 Scrambler range keeps “the soul of the Ducati Scrambler family intact, preserving its distinctive elements.” The front headlight, now full LED, keeps the iconic “X” but has been redesigned with an even more recognizable style. The new taillight design is now with a semi-circular line, always full LED, along with the direction indicators.

The steel tank has been redesigned and equipped with an interchangeable cover that, along with the fenders and details on the headlamp, gives the bike its color and allows easy and quick customization. Anodized aluminum covers below the tank complete the renewed design of the front of the bike.

New instrumentation includes the 4.3-inch color TFT and dedicated HMI. The Ducati Multimedia System is available as an accessory, allowing you to listen to music and make calls by connecting your smartphone.

2023 Ducati Scrambler Icon

The 2023 Ducati Scrambler Icon version with the new tank design and interchangeable covers offers the three standard colors (’62 Yellow, Thrilling Black, and Ducati Red), and a further six are available as accessory kits that include tank covers, front and rear fenders, headlamp covers, and wheel tags to complete the customization.

The Icon features a revised handlebar that is lower and closer to the rider, and the seat has been redesigned with a more tapered, streamlined shape. Completing the design of this new generation of Icon are black under-seat side panels with Ducati Scrambler graphics.

The Ducati Scrambler Icon will arrive to the U.S. in spring 2023 starting at $10,995.

2023 Ducati Scrambler Full Throttle

The 2023 Ducati Scrambler Full Throttle was inspired by U.S. Flat Track competitions on dirt oval tracks. The side number plates have the number 62 in Tracker style – representing the 1962 debut year of the first Ducati Scrambler – combined with the sump guard for what Ducati says is “a decidedly grittier aesthetic for those who do not want to go unnoticed.”

The Full Throttle’s sporty character is underlined by the sport-look seat cover, a dedicated livery in GP19 Red/Dark Stealth, and the black finish of the exhaust heat shields and front side covers. A shorter front fender, a tail without a rear fender, red tags on the alloy wheels, a street-legal Termignoni silencer, Ducati Performance LED turn signals, and standard Quick Shift up/down complete the package.

The riding position is also different than the Icon thanks to a variable section handlebar, and the Rosso GP19 seat cover is available as an accessory for a single-seat look.

The Ducati Scrambler Full Throttle will arrive at U.S. dealerships in spring 2023 starting at $12,195.

2023 Ducati Scrambler Nightshift

Ducati says the 2023 Ducati Scrambler Nightshift is “the most elegant of the proposals” in the 2023 Scrambler range. Like the Full Throttle, the Nightshift features side number plates, a sporty front fender, the absence of a rear fender, and compact LED indicators.

The Nightshift has a Nebula Blue color scheme and spoked rims, now completely black, and the same flat-shaped, variable-section handlebar and bar-end mirrors in café racer style as the 2022 model.

The Ducati Scrambler Nightshift will arrive to U.S. dealers in summer 2023 starting at $12,195.

Scrambler Customization

To allow enthusiasts to express their personality in the best way possible, Scrambler offers a wide choice of accessories, including three exhaust proposals made by Termignoni. There is the street-legal silencer with black finish and contrasting ring available in yellow, red or blue. The complete steel exhaust is not street legal and is mounted in a high side position in Flat Track style, with black finish and accompanied by dedicated mapping for the ECU (not homologated for road use). The third exhaust accessory is a street-legal short silencer, also in steel, again with black finish and accompanied by dedicated map. All three choices have a contrasting ring available in yellow, red, or blue.

Other accessories include saddles, many details machined from billet – footpegs, mirrors, tank caps – and soft bags, all viewable via the online configurator.

For more information, visit the Ducati website.

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Yamaha Announces 2023 Updated and Returning Models

November 10, 2022 mcnews Leave a comment

Yamaha has announced the release of its remaining 2023 motorcycle lineup, which includes the first extensive update to the Yamaha XMAX Sport Scooter since its 2018 introduction. Additionally, the 2023 Yamaha MT-07 has received tech updates, and the Yamaha Ténéré 700 returns for 2023 with two new color/graphic options.

2023 Yamaha XMAX Sport Scooter

The 2023 Yamaha XMAX retains the key attributes that Yamaha says make it a class leader in the Sport Scooter category. It uses a liquid-cooled 292cc Blue Core single-cylinder engine, a telescoping front fork, a 15-inch front wheel, a 14-inch rear wheel, traction control, and disc brakes front and rear.

The scooter has a two-position windscreen, adjustable handlebars, underseat storage with room for two full-face helmets, a 12-volt accessory outlet, and Smart Key keyless ignition.

Claimed fuel economy on the 2018 XMAX was 75 mpg, which should yield more than 250 miles from the 3.4-gallon tank, and the scooter comes in at a claimed 397 pounds wet.

Going beyond the familiar, Yamaha says the 2023 XMAX represents the biggest step forward in the company’s scooter design in recent years, from a new look to new tech.

Updated Styling

Virtually every part of the XMAX’s exterior has been redesigned to create what Yamaha says is “a more compact and visually impressive machine.” New X-shaped LED headlights and taillights complement the aggressive styling, and new high-mount LED front indicators add to the streamlined look. While the seat height remains at 31.3 in, Yamaha says it has been completely redesigned for increased comfort and decreased leg reach to the ground.

New Yamaha Motorcycle Connect

New for 2023, Yamaha is introducing Y-Connect smartphone connectivity allowing riders to connect their smartphone directly to their scooter, enabling a wide range of new capabilities, including phone and music control, as well as a newly available Garmin turn-by-turn navigation system.

The 2023 XMAX comes equipped with a new 4.2-inch color TFT infotainment display located below the 3.2-inch LCD speedometer , as well as a new handlebar-mounted switchgear to enable connectivity control. Y-Connect and the Y-Connect app are free and provide the following functionality for the new XMAX:

Onboard navigation through the installation of the Garmin StreetCross navigation app on the user’s smartphone.
Call, text, and email notifications through pairing with a Bluetooth headset, as well as weather forecasts, time, phone battery level, and connection status information on the TFT display.
Music capability.
Vehicle running information such as engine speed, average fuel consumption, coolant temperature, battery voltage, and ambient temperature. Vehicle data can also be collected within the app for viewing information such as service interval recommendations or the last known location of the vehicle on the user’s smartphone.
Riding log and a ranking function that compares things like a rider’s mileage or fuel economy with other Yamaha riders within the U.S. or around the world.

The 2023 Yamaha XMAX will be offered in Granite Gray and will be available from dealers beginning January 2023 for an MSRP of $6,099.

2023 Yamaha MT-07

The 2023 Yamaha MT-07 includes key upgrades that enhance the overall package while remaining true to the hypernaked bike’s basic concept.

The MT-07 still features a liquid-cooled 689cc DOHC parallel-Twin. In our First Ride Review of the 2021 model, the dyno testing reported 68 hp and 46.5 lb-ft of torque at the rear wheel. Yamaha says on its website that the CP2 engine “provides both outstanding low- to mid-range torque and strong high-rpm pulling power.” Our reviewer put it as “all the thrill the combustion forces working below can exert but with none of the hairiness.”

The MT-07 has a steel frame with the engine as a stressed member of the chassis, lightweight 10-spoke cast aluminum wheels with Michelin Road 5 tires, and a 3.7-gal. fuel tank, all of which combine for a claimed wet weight of 406 lb.

The MT-07’s front suspension features a 41mm KYB fork with 5.1 inches of travel and a link-type KYB rear shock that’s adjustable for both rebound damping and spring preload. With 5.1 inches of rear travel, the shock is positioned below the seat with an almost horizontal alignment to help make the chassis even more compact. Stopping power comes from 298mm front brake discs with four-piston calipers and a 245mm rear disc. ABS comes standard.

One of the most significant additions for the 2023 Yamaha MT-07 is the installation of a new 5-inch full-color TFT display that provides a choice of two different screen modes. The “Street” mode is a more modern layout with a bar-type tachometer, digital speedo, and gear-selection readouts. The “Touring” mode features a more conventional circular analog-style tachometer on the right of the screen and digital speedometer on the left.

The 2023 MT-07 also now features Yamaha Motorcycle Connect smartphone connectivity, which works in conjunction with the free Y-Connect app (available for iOS and Android) to enable a direct connection between motorcycle and smartphone. See above in the XMAX section for all the Y-Connect capabilities.

Finally, the new MT-07 is pre-wired with the necessary electronics for installation of a quickshifter, making it easy to install Yamaha’s Quick Shift System, which is available through the Yamaha Genuine Accessory catalog.

The 2023 Yamaha MT-07 will be offered in three color options: Cyan Storm, Team Yamaha Blue and Matte Raven Black. It will be available from dealers beginning April 2023 for an MSRP of $8,199.

Other Updates and Returning Models

The Yamaha Ténéré 700 returns for 2023 with two new color/graphic options: Team Yamaha Blue and Shadow Gray.

2023 Yamaha Tenere 700 in Team Yamaha Blue

Yamaha’s remaining 2023 models – including the Yamaha MT-03, MT-09, MT-09 SP, MT-10, MT-10 SP, XSR700, XSR900, Bolt R-Spec, Super Ténéré ES, FJR1300ES and Zuma 125 – all return unchanged.

See all of Rider’s Yamaha coverage here.

No model-year 2023 Tracer 9 GT has been announced for the U.S. market at this time. Please contact your local Yamaha dealer for availability and price on any of these models.

For more information related to all Yamaha products, visit the Yamaha Motorsports website.

Follow Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, at Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. #Yamaha #YamahaMotor #YamahaMotorUSA

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2023 BMW R 1250 RS | First Look Review

November 10, 2022 mcnews Leave a comment

In BMW nomenclature, the “RS” in “R 1250 RS” stands for “Boxer-powered sport touring.” For 2023, the BMW R 1250 RS gets several new standard features and optional extras to spice up both the “sport” and “touring” goals of the RS model.

As before, the R 1250 RS runs on a 2-cylinder Boxer engine with 1,254cc of displacement, reported to generate 136 hp and 105 lb-ft of torque. Also returning is BMW’s ShiftCam technology for varying valve timing, allowing the engine to be more powerful across its operating range along with better fuel economy.

Related Story: 2021 BMW R 1250 GS | Road Test Review

2023 BMW R 1250 RS Standard Features

The 2023 R 1250 RS will add a new standard ride mode: Eco. Also available on the 2023 R 1250 R, the Eco ride mode joins existing Rain and Road modes. With a soft throttle map and moderate engine torque limitation, Eco mode encourages riders to ride as fuel-efficiently as possible. While in Eco mode, the TFT display provides an efficiency rating so riders know just how much fuel they’re using at a given moment.

Related Story: 2023 BMW R 1250 R | First Look Review

Dynamic Traction Control, ABS Pro, and Dynamic Brake Control are now standard. Additional new standard features include the redesigned LED turnsignals and a second USB socket with a 5-volt power supply.

The model also gets a new colorway with two optional style designs. Light White with a black frame is standard. Optional Sport Style gets you the Light White with Racing Blue and Racing Red paint, a Light White frame, gold front and rear brake calipers, and a blue front spoiler. The Triple Black Style option comes with Black Storm paint, an Agate Grey frame, gold front and rear brake calipers, and a stainless-steel engine spoiler.

Optional Features

BMW is also offering a number of optional extras for those wanting a little more than standard.

The Premium package comes with Riding Modes Pro, which provides additional, individually configurable riding modes. The Engine Drag Torque Control, included with the Premium package, can be used to safely avoid unstable riding conditions that can occur while coasting or downshifting due to excessive slip at the rear tire.

Tubular handlebars are also now available as an option. They are slightly wider and higher than standard for a more relaxed and upright seating position.

If you’re wanting to lean into the sporty look of the R 1250 RS, a new optional solo seat is now available. The passenger seat is replaced with a painted plastic cover while the passenger footpegs and grab handles are removed.

2023 BMW R 1250 RS Availability Price

Even with several new updates, BMW hasn’t increased the price from model year 2022. The 2023 BMW R 1250 RS still sits at $15,695 and is expected to arrive in America in the Spring of 2023. Prices for optional features and styles were not available at press time.

For more information, visit BMW’s website.

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Source: RiderMagazine.com

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2023 Honda Rebel 1100T DCT and Returning Models | First Look Review

November 9, 2022 mcnews Leave a comment

The 2023 Honda lineup is in, including 11 returning models from five categories and the new “bagger” Rebel 1100 trim level.

In 2023, we’ll see the return of sportbikes like the CBR1000RR, the touring-focused NC750X, the classic Shadow Aero and Shadow Phantom, miniMOTOs like the Super Cub and Monkey, and more.

The highlight of Honda’s 2023 lineup is the “bagger” Rebel, the 2023 Rebel 1100T DCT. With a dual-clutch transmission, wind protection, and extra cargo space offered in the new hard-shell saddlebags, this model puts a different spin on Honda’s new-school cruiser platform.

And for those who love the Rebel just as it is, the Rebel 1100 will still be available in its non-bagger form, in both manual and dual-clutch transmission versions.

The 2023 Honda Rebel 1100 ($9,499) in Green Metallic

“This announcement covers nearly every category of on-road motorcycle, which is a testament to how deep our product offering is,” says Brandon Wilson, Manager of Sports and Experiential at American Honda. “Whether it’s for the first-time rider or the weekend warrior, we’re committed to delivering the best possible ownership and riding experiences to all of our passionate two-wheel customers.”

Honda also announced in September that it would be continuing the Gold Wing family for model year 2023. Click here for more information on the 2023 Gold Wings.

2023 Honda Rebel 1100

Watch Rider‘s video review of the 2021 Honda Rebel 1100

Honda introduced the Rebel 1100 two years ago, a bigger-displacement cruiser modeled after the successful Rebel 300 and 500. It’s a capable and comfortable all-around cruiser featuring a liquid-cooled, 1083cc, parallel-Twin engine available with either a manual transmission or DCT (dual-clutch transmission).

The new “T” trim marks the beginning of the “bagger” Rebel, only available with DCT. The Rebel 1100T DCT comes standard with a windscreen and hard-shell saddlebags with a combined 35 liters of space, making it even more practical for longer rides.

The 2023 Honda Rebel 1100T DCT will come in Metallic Black or Bordeaux Red Metallic starting at $11,299. The Rebel 1100 DCT will come in Iridium Gray Metallic or Green Metallic starting at $10,099. And the Rebel 1100 will start at $9,499 for Iridium Gray Metallic or Green Metallic.

2023 Honda Rebel 500 & Rebel 300

The Rebel 500 and 300 return as Honda’s most approachable and affordable entry-level cruiser models. The 500 comes with a 471cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-Twin engine, while the 300 has a 286cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine. These models provide a relaxed riding position with a classic-meets-modern aesthetic.

Both models are available in standard and ABS versions, and the Rebel 500 ABS SE includes numerous add-ons like a diamond-stitched seat and a headlight cowl. Both models also feature a peanut fuel tank, LED lighting, and blacked-out engine components.

The 2023 Honda Rebel 300 ($4,749) in Candy Diesel Red

The 2023 Honda Rebel 500 ABS SE will come in Titanium Metallic starting at $6,949. The Rebel 500 ABS will be available for $6,749, while the 500 without ABS will be available for $6,499, both in Matte Black Metallic or Candy Blue. The Rebel 300 ABS will come in at $5,049, and the 300 without ABS will be $4,649, both in Matte Black Metallic and Candy Diesel Red.

2023 Honda Shadow Aero

The Shadow Aero returns with its large front fender, chrome headlights, a low-slung seat, spoked wheels, swept-back twin exhausts, and a 745cc V-Twin engine. The Aero has a retro look but comes with modern technology like fuel injection and ABS. It will be available in February 2023.

The 2023 Honda Shadow Aero will be available for $7,799 in Ultra Blue Metallic.

2023 Honda Shadow Phantom

This bobber-inspired cruiser has a blacked-out engine, short fenders, and black wheels with spokes. The Shadow Phantom is designed for a comfortable riding experience and features the same 745cc V-Twin engine as the Shadow Aero.

The 2023 Honda Shadow Phantom will be available for $7,999 in Adventure Green or Matte Black Metallic.

2023 Honda CBR1000RR

The CBR1000RR sportbike is built to perform, featuring a light 432-lb curb weight and a powerful 998cc inline 4-cylinder engine with dual-stage fuel injection. The RR also boasts a TFT display, a full LED lighting package, and your choice of ABS or conventional brakes.

The 2023 Honda CBR1000RR will be available in Grand Prix Red with ABS for $16,899 or without ABS for $16,599.

2023 Honda CBR600RR

With eight World Supersport titles, the CBR600RR is a tried-and-true supersport. Two sets of injectors per cylinder ensure both low- and high-rpm performance, while the Honda Electronic Steering Damper detects vehicle speed and adjusts damping to stable handling. The 4.8-gallon fuel tank is centered and low in the frame, allowing for a compact design and making the bike more responsive to rider input.

The 2023 Honda CBR600RR will be available in Grand Prix Red for $13,099 with ABS or $12,099 without ABS.

2023 Honda CBR300R ABS

The 2023 Honda CB300R ABS ($5,049) in Pearl Dusk Yellow

This entry-level sport-naked bike features a friendly 286cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine designed for use in real-world riding situations. The CBR300R is light weight at 316 lb wet and features standard ABS, blacked-out engine components, and a cafe style. New for 2023 is a gear-position indicator on the LED instrument panel.

The 2023 Honda CBR300R ABS will be available for $5,049 in Pearl Dusk Yellow or Matte Black Metallic.

2023 Honda NC750X

Honda built the NC750X to create a motorcycle that can “do it all and do it well.” This commuter bike features a liquid-cooled, SOHC 8-valve parallel-Twin engine, a large front storage compartment big enough to store most helmets, an upright riding position, and a dual-clutch transmission. It also features the Honda Selectable Torque Control, allowing riders to choose between some rear-wheel spin for gravel and dirt or reduced spin for slippery roads.

The 2023 Honda NC750X will be available for $9,399 in Matte Nightshade Blue.

2023 Honda Super Cub C125 ABS

The original Cub sold 100 million units worldwide since 1958, and this reimagined Cub is powered by a 124cc four-stroke engine that zips around town while sipping fuel. The Super Cub features modern technology like fuel injection, front-wheel ABS, and an electric starter, offering convenience for everyday riding.

The 2023 Honda Super Cub C125 ABS will be available for $3,849 in Pearl Gray.

2023 Honda Monkey ABS

Since its development in 1961, the Monkey has retained its vintage-inspired styling while evolving into a practical and fun pint-sized machine. It features the same 124cc air-cooled engine as the Honda Grom with a five-speed transmission and standard ABS. With a claimed 169 mpg, a wet weight of 231 lb, 12-inch wheels, and chunky tires, the Monkey is built for urban riding.

The 2023 Honda Monkey ABS will be available for $4,249 in Pearl Nebula Red and Banana Yellow.

2023 Honda ADV150

The ADV150 is a mix of adventure and urban riding. This “Africa Twin of the scooter world” features a 149cc, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke engine in a steel frame.

At 134 mpg, this scooter is practical for getting around town while also being able to handle scenic dirt roads. It also features an automatic transmission, an adjustable windscreen, and under-seat storage.

The 2023 Honda ADV150 will be available for $4,349 in Candy Rose Red.

Find out more at Powersports.Honda.com

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Source: RiderMagazine.com

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2023 Suzuki GSX-8S | First Look Review

November 9, 2022 mcnews Leave a comment

At the EICMA show in Milan, Italy, Suzuki unveiled an all-new 776cc DOHC parallel-Twin engine that will power two new models – the 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800DE (and Adventure variant) and the 2023 Suzuki GSX-8S.

Suzuki says the 2023 GSX-8S is a “brand-new naked middleweight streetfighter with a robust engine, an agile chassis, a suite of electronic rider aids, plus stunning looks.”

The compact 776cc parallel-twin engine is mounted in a new rugged steel frame design, uses a 270-degree firing order for strong torque production, and is equipped with Suzuki’s exclusive Cross Balancer system to minimize vibration. The bike also features the ride-by-wire electronic throttle control system, Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS), and the Bi-directional Quick Shift system.

The 2023 Suzuki GSX-8S also comes with Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) with a three-mode Suzuki Drive Mode Selector, the four-mode Advanced Traction Control System, ABS, and Suzuki’s Easy Start and Low RPM Assist systems.

New exposed seat rails are engineered to support the rider and, when combined with the 3.69-gal fuel tank with a narrow rear section that flows into the seat, contribute to the GSX-8S’ slim appearance and stripped-down look.

Suspension is provided by a KYB inverted fork with a 130mm stroke with stable damping characteristics in the front that make the bike suitable for both sports riding and long-distance rides and dedicated link-type mono-shock KYB suspension with mechanical preload adjuster in the rear.

Stopping power comes from Nissin radial-mount 4-piston front brake calipers mated with 310mm outer diameter floating-mount dual discs. The rear brake has a 240mm outer diameter disc and uses a single-piston pin-slide caliper.

The cast-aluminum wheels feature a new lightweight design and are shod with a new generation of Dunlop RoadSport 2 radial tires (120/70ZR17 in the front; 180/55ZR17 in the rear), and Suzuki says the tapered aluminum handlebars provide a “sporty yet comfortable upright riding position and feature a wide enough grip to contribute to positive control when steering.” And at a height of 31.9 inches, the seat has been designed for solid support for the rider toward its rear edge.

See all of Rider’s Suzuki coverage here.

The bike has a 5-inch color TFT LCD multi-function instrument panel, vertically stacked LED headlights in hexagonal housings topped by an LED position light, and LED turnsignals and taillight.

All combined, the GSX-8S comes in at a curb weight of 445 lb and offers styling that Suzuki says creates “an appealing new mass-forward, aggressive look that is slim, compact, well-balanced, and ready for action.”

The 2023 Suzuki GSX-8S comes in three colorways, each featuring unique logos and graphics that help identify the sport’s newest performance motorcycle and that first appeared on the 2022 GSX-S1000.

Buyers can select from Suzuki’s Pearl Cosmic Blue, Pearl Tech White, or Metallic Matte Black No. 2 / Glass Sparkle Black paint scheme. Pricing and availability hasn’t been announced as of publication.

For more information or to find a Suzuki dealer near you, visit SuzukiCycles.com.

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2023 KTM 690 Enduro R and 690 SMC R | First Look Review

November 4, 2022 mcnews Leave a comment

KTM has announced updates to the aesthetics of the KTM 690 Enduro R and KTM 690 SMC R for 2023.

See all of Rider’s KTM coverage here.

Both bikes still feature the liquid-cooled 693cc LC4 single-cylinder engine, which KTM says has “proven to be the ideal baseline for the KTM 690 range,” as well as a 6-speed gearbox with Quickshifter+, throttle-by-wire, a PASC slipper clutch, and dual balancer shafts.

The LC4 machines also still benefit from cornering ABS, Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC), and two ride modes: Street and Offroad on the 690 Enduro R and Street and Sport on the 690 SMC R.

On the 2023 KTM 690 SMC R, the optional Supermoto ABS mirrors this feature. When activated, ABS sensitivity is reduced on the front wheel and completely disabled on the rear, which KTM says allows for “big drifts into corners and tire-smoking powerslides out of the apex.”

An optional Offroad ABS (just add a dongle) on the 2023 KTM 690 Enduro R reduces ABS intervention on the front wheel and completely disables ABS on the rear, allowing riders to lock up the rear when they need to slide the rear into a tight turn or drag the brake down a technical descent.

The 2023 KTM 690 Enduro R has adjustable WP XPLOR suspension with separate damping circuits and 9.8 inches of travel. Stopping power is provided by Brembo brakes with wave discs, 300mm on the front and 240mm on the rear. The 2023 KTM 690 SMC R has adjustable WP APEX suspension with separate damping circuits, 9.8 inches of travel, and Brembo brakes with 320mm front and 240 rear discs.

From an aesthetics standpoint, the 2023 KTM 690 Enduro R takes its styling cues from the competition-Enduro range, and the KTM 690 SMC R brings an all-new blue and orange adornment to the fray.

KTM says the 2023 KTM 690 Enduro R and KTM 690 SMC R models will be available at authorized KTM dealers from November onward. Pricing is TBD.

For more information on KTM’s full model range, visit the KTM website.

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2024 Triumph Street Triple 765 Range | First Look Review

November 3, 2022 mcnews Leave a comment

Triumph Motorcycles has announced the new 2024 Triumph Street Triple 765 range, featuring a significantly updated Street Triple R, a new Street Triple RS, and an exclusive limited-run Street Triple 765 Moto2 Edition, which Triumph says is “the closest you can get to a Moto2 race bike for the road.” Only 765 of the Moto2 Edition bikes will be made.

At the Oct. 18 virtual press conference unveiling the new bikes, Triumph’s head of brand management, Miles Perkins, said the Street Triple, which was originally developed from the company’s race-winning Daytona 675, has had distinctive character ever since its introduction in 2007.

“From the start, the bike played a part in redefining what a middleweight sports bike should be about,” Perkins said. “Over the years, there have been a number of significant updates from Triumph, all of which have been about making the bike better, faster, more powerful, and lighter. And I think I wouldn’t be too demonstrative to say there are not many bikes in the world of motorcycling that have gotten better, lighter, more powerful – particularly names as well-regarded as the Street Triple.”

All three models in the new 2024 Street Triple 765 range will still feature a liquid-cooled 765cc inline-Triple, which was bumped up from 675cc with the 2017 Street Triple lineup, but Triumph says engine upgrades derived directly from the Moto2 race engine program have resulted in a significant step up in performance on the range.

Triumph’s most powerful Street Triple range to date, the 2024 Street Triple R engine makes a claimed 118 hp (up from 116 hp) and 59 lb-ft of torque at 9,500 rpm (up from 57 lb-ft at 9,400 rpm). The Street Triple RS and Moto2 take it up another notch, making 128 hp.

Other lessons from the Moto2 race engine program that have been applied to the 2024 Street Triple range include a compression ratio that has been raised from 12.65:1 to 13.25:1 – an increase of 4.7%. Additionally, new pistons, con-rods and gudgeon pins are matched to new, optimized combustion chambers for an increased cylinder pressure limit and ultimately, more power, and the new valves and camshafts are said to give increased valve lift for improved intake, combustion, and exhaust efficiency. The gearbox has also been revised to include shorter gear ratios for faster acceleration.

2024 Triumph Street Triple 765 Range: ‘The Perfect Performance Naked Bike Set-up’

In the media statement announcing the new Street Triple range, Triumph said that new technology and high-specification components, combined with an updated chassis, make the range “the best handling ever and the perfect performance naked bike set-up.”

At the press conference, Triumph’s global product marketing manager, James Wood, said the specifications of the chassis and suspension have “always been about agility, precision, and having a bike that you really connect with intuitively … and give the best possible ride for each of these three models, with the R being more road focused, the RS adding even more advanced performance and track-focused capability, and the Moto2 Edition, which has the most track-focused capability ever for a Street Triple.”

The 2024 Street Triple 765 R and RS both benefit from the new generation’s more focused and commanding riding position, the result of a new handlebar that is 0.47 inch wider. The race-inspired Moto2 Edition goes one step further with clip-on handlebars that are 3.15 inches lower and 1.97 inches farther forward than the R and RS. This change, combined with the bike’s unique high-specification Öhlins fork, is said to deliver even more race bike poise and front end feel. Both the RS and the Moto2 Edition also feature revised geometry with a steeper rake and a raised back end for nimble, faster turning.

2024 Triumph Street Triple 765 Moto2 in Triumph Racing Yellow with an Aluminum Silver rear subframe

Seat height is 32.52 inches on the Street Triple R, 32.91 inches on the Street Triple RS, and 33.03 inches for the Moto2 Edition, and a new accessory low seat option with 3D net technology for enhanced comfort can be fitted to further reduce the height by 1.1 inches on all models. For the Street Triple RS and Moto2 Edition, Triumph dealers can additionally lower the seat by 0.39 inch if required through the implementation of a dedicated rear suspension linkage adaption, which when delivered in combination with the accessory low seat provides a very accessible height of 31.42 inches on the RS and 31.54 inches on the Moto2 Edition. 

Check out more of Rider‘s Triumph coverage here

Braking is linked on the new Street Triples, with the Street Triple R featuring Brembo M4.32 4-piston radial monoblock calipers at the front and a Brembo single piston sliding caliper at the rear. The Street Triple 765 RS and Moto2 Edition are fitted with Brembo Stylema 4-piston radial monobloc front calipers with twin 310mm floating discs. A matching Brembo MCS span and ratio adjustable lever reportedly gives even more control and finesse, and a Brembo single piston sliding caliper keeps things in check at the rear.

As far as suspension, components from Showa and Öhlins are fully adjustable for preload, compression, and rebound.

The Street Triple 765 R comes fitted with a Showa 41mm inverted, separate-function Big Piston fork and a Showa piggyback reservoir rear monoshock. The Street Triple RS is equipped with a Showa 41mm inverted Big Piston fork and an Öhlins piggyback reservoir rear shock, and the Moto2 Edition reflects its track-ready capability with a 43mm inverted Öhlins front fork and an Öhlins piggyback reservoir rear shock. Front wheel travel on all models is 4.53 inches, with 5.17-in rear wheel travel on the RS and Moto2 Edition, and 5.26 inches on the Street Triple R.

The Street Triple R is shod with Continental ContiRoad tires, and the RS and Moto2 Edition get Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP V3 tires.

Triumph said the Street Triple’s gullwing swingarm has been developed for “excellent torsional stiffness with lateral flexibility, maximizing stability at higher speeds for enhanced rider confidence while the pivot position provides natural resistance to compressing the rear shock absorber under hard acceleration.”

The company said this translates into tight corner exits and precise, predictable chassis behavior, and results in class-defining performance when combined with the bike’s lightweight chassis and incredible power-to-weight ratio.

The Street Triple R has a wet weight of 417 lb, with the RS and Moto2 Edition coming in at 414 lb. Wood said the power-to-weight ratio has “always been key.”

“The attributes that make this such a great, precise bike for the track also make it an easy and intuitive bike to ride on the road, for any rider and any skill level.”

Read the 2015 Rider interview with Stuart Wood here.

2024 Triumph Street Triple 765 Technology

The new Street Triple 765 range features the latest generation of optimized cornering ABS on all three new models. The system features a new ABS modulator with an integrated IMU for more refined ABS control. Tailored settings integrated into each of the riding modes alter the level of ABS intervention, while a track-focused tune is also present for riders seeking minimal ABS intervention.

Optimized cornering traction control supported by an IMU that continuously calculates the lean angle to ensure the optimum slip rate and torque control is also now standard on all three Street Triple 765 models. Four independently adjustable levels of intervention can be selected to suit riding styles and road conditions, including a track-focused tune with minimal intervention as well as the ability to turn it off altogether for experienced riders in high-grip racetrack situations.

The new Street Triple 765 R features four ride modes – Road, Rain, Sport and Rider-configurable – while the RS and Moto2 Edition have an additional Track mode designed to be as unintrusive as possible while still providing the reassurance that the electronic systems are there to help in unexpected situations.

The Road, Sport, and Track modes have new, more dynamic throttle maps that Triumph says provide an even more responsive feel. Rain mode restricts the engine power to 98.6 hp while increasing the level of ABS and traction control intervention for better feel and control in wet conditions.

The new Street Triple 756 RS and Moto2 Edition feature 5-inch full-color TFT instrumentation with ergonomically optimized switch cubes and a five-way joystick. The MyTriumph connectivity system is pre-enabled and provides turn-by-turn navigation, phone control, and music operation via the accessory-fit Bluetooth module and free My Triumph app. A lap timer is included on the RS and Moto2 Edition for track use.

The 2024 Street Triple 765 range also features the latest generation of Triumph Shift Assist. Upshifts can be made without closing the throttle, and downshifts can be made without the use of the clutch or the need to blip the throttle to match the gear and engine speeds. A slip/assist clutch and front wheel lift control are also standard on all three models.

2024 Triumph Street Triple 765 Styling

The 2024 Street Triple generation features new racing-derived ‘765’ sporty graphics and all new bodywork.

The new 3.96-gal. fuel tank has integrated side panels with an angular design that aligns with the sharper radiator cowls, further complemented by a new headlight finisher that also incorporates the air intake. Additionally, there’s a new color-coded belly pan for the RS, which is available as an accessory option for the R.

The rear end of the new Street Triple has a sporty, upswept design lending to a focused, nose-down attitude. The RS features a color-coded seat cowl with an interchangeable passenger seat. The new silencer shape adds to the Street Triple’s aggressive stance.

The Moto2 Edition features lightweight carbon fiber bodywork, including the front fender, side panels, headlight finisher, and belly pan, and each of these limited-edition motorcycles has a machined top yoke with its number etched onto it.

The Street Triple 765 R will be available in two colorways: Silver Ice with Storm Grey and Yellow graphics or Crystal White with Storm Grey and Lithium Flame graphics. The Street Triple 765 RS will have three schemes: Silver Ice with Baja Orange and Storm Grey graphics, Carnival Red with Carbon Black and Aluminum Silver graphics, or Cosmic Yellow with Carbon Black and Aluminum Silver graphics.

Finally, the Moto2 Edition comes in two race-derived liveries: Triumph Racing Yellow with an Aluminum Silver rear sub-frame or Crystal White with Triumph Racing Yellow rear subframe. The official Moto2 branding will appear on the tank, wheel, tail unit, and silencer.

The 2024 Street Triple 765 R and RS are expected to arrive in U.S. dealerships in April 2023 and will be priced starting at $9,995 and $12,595, respectively. The Moto2 Edition is expected to arrive in June 2023 starting at $15,395.

For more information, visit the Triumph Motorcycles website.

The post 2024 Triumph Street Triple 765 Range | First Look Review first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

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