Fifty years ago, Ducati introduced its first air-cooled twin-cylinder engine, on the 1971 Ducati 750 GT. The new 2022 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Tribute Pro pays homage to this milestone with special livery and a 1,079cc air-cooled L-Twin that makes a claimed 86 horsepower at 7,500 rpm and 66.5 lb-ft of torque at 4,750 rpm.
The Scrambler 1100 Tribute Pro wears striking “Giallo Ocra” yellow paint, which was used on the 1972 450 Desmo Mono and 750 Sport. The sides of the fuel tank feature the iconic 1970s-era Ducati logo that was designed by Giugiaro, and the same font is used to spell “Scrambler” on the top of the tank. Other styling details include black spoked wheels, round mirrors, and a brown seat with special stitching.
Though honoring the past, the Tribute edition has the modern features found in Ducati’s Scrambler 1100 Pro line, including three riding modes, multi-level traction control, cornering ABS, a headlight with a distinctive LED ring, and the Ducati Multimedia System. There’s a USB socket for mobile phone charging under the seat.
The 2022 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Tribute Pro has a steel trellis frame, an aluminum subframe, a cast aluminum swingarm, and spoked wheels (18-inch front, 17-inch rear) shod with Pirelli MT60 RS tires. Suspension includes a fully adjustable 45mm inverted Marzocchi fork and an adjustable Kayaba shock with a progressive linkage. The front brakes are radial-mount monoblock Brembo M4.32 calipers squeezing 320mm discs.
Pricing starts at $13,995.
2022 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Tribute Pro
Base Price: $13,995 Website:ducati.com Engine Type: Air/oil-cooled, transverse 90-degree L-Twin, desmodromic DOHC w/ 2 valves per cyl. Displacement: 1,079cc Bore x Stroke: 98.0 x 71.0mm Horsepower: 86 horsepower @ 7,500 rpm Torque: 66.5 lb-ft @ 4,750 rpm Transmission: 6-speed, hydraulically actuated slip/assist wet clutch Final Drive: Chain Wheelbase: 59.6 in. Rake/Trail: 24.5 degrees/4.4 in. Seat Height: 31.9 in. Wet Weight: 465 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 4.0 gals.
Now in its third generation, the Suzuki Hayabusa was thoroughly updated for 2022. We logged 1,700 miles on public roads and did a dyno test for this road test review. (Photos by Kevin Wing)
Sometimes truth really is stranger than fiction. These days we’ve got three billionaires – Jeff Bezos, Richard Branson, and Elon Musk – trying to one-up each other in the space race. Ever the showman, Branson beat Bezos by a week in their personal quests to become space cowboys. If you want to book a galactic flight, a ticket could set you back a cool $250,000.
What a waste. You can reach hyperspace right here on Earth for less than a tenth as much. Just head down to your local Suzuki dealer and fork over $18,599 for a new Hayabusa. All you have to decide is which color you want your rocket to be.
2022 Suzuki Hayabusa in Metallic Matte Sword Silver / Candy Daring Red
Our test bike is a gorgeous Metallic Matte Sword Silver with Candy Daring Red accents. The ’Busa also looks sharp in Glass Sparkle Black and Candy Burnt Gold, but you can’t go wrong with Pearl Brilliant White and Metallic Matte Stellar Blue either. Ah, the tyranny of choice!
TAKING FLIGHT
Yes, the Hayabusa, along with all other street-legal production motorcycles, has its top speed electronically limited to 186 mph (300 kph). But with some ingenuity – and money – you can go faster. Much faster.
Just ask Becci Ellis. Her husband Mike built a turbocharged Hayabusa, and she rode it to a world-record speed of 264.10 mph in 2014.
Greg’s Gear Helmet:Fly Racing Sentinel Gloves: Fly Racing FL-2 Jacket/Pants: Olympia Airglide 6 Boots: Sidi Gavia Gore-Tex Tailbag:Nelson-Rigg Commuter
Or Bill Warner. He’s a tropical fish farmer from Tampa, Florida, who rode a partially streamlined and turbocharged Hayabusa to a record-breaking 272.340 mph in the standing mile at Maxton AFB in 2010.
California’s Highway 9 winds its way through towering coast redwoods near Santa Cruz.
For mere mortals riding on public roads, the Hayabusa’s speed cap is hardly oppressive. And it’s really no big deal that claimed peak horsepower for the third-gen 2022 model is lower than that of the previous model (188 vs. 194). Peak torque is lower too. What matters is the extra grunt in the midrange, which helps the new Hayabusa accelerate faster than ever.
HYPERSPORT-TOURING
Here at Rider, we gave up quarter-mile and top-speed testing a long time ago. It was just too logistically challenging, and on a bike like the Hayabusa, it would be dangerous and felonious without renting a drag strip. In thrust we trust, and on Jett Tuning’s rear-wheel dyno the big Suzook spun up the drum to the tune of 173 horsepower at 9,800 rpm and 106 lb-ft of torque at 6,900 rpm.
We specialize in motorcycle travel and adventure, so after Tom Montano’s first ride mostly on the track at Utah Motor-sports Campus, we wanted to find out how well the Hayabusa works out on the road, ridden until the low-fuel light comes on.
We logged nearly 1,700 miles for this test (including three 400-mile days) on city streets, on freeways ranging from wide open to rush-hour crowded, and on some of the best riding roads the Golden State has to offer. We burned nearly 44 gallons of premium fuel and averaged 38 mpg; the Hayabusa has a 5.3-gallon tank, so that works out to just over 201 miles of range. Our fuel economy was as high as 42 mpg on mellower jaunts, but it dropped as low as 31 mpg when we pushed hard in the twisties.
Massive intake ducts are part of the Suzuki Ram Air Direct (SRAD) system, which pressurizes the airbox.
As a 582-pound sportbike, the Hayabusa isn’t what you’d call flickable. It’s well-composed, graceful even, and will go where you point it and hold a line dutifully. But effort is required when transitioning back and forth through a tight series of curves, like those on Highway 1 along the craggy Big Sur coast, on Skyline Boulevard along the ridge of the Santa Cruz Mountains, or on Highway 58 as it snakes over the Temblor Range. You have to earn it, and the big reward is lighting the wick on a long, arcing corner exit.
Built in 1932, Bixby Bridge is north of Big Sur on California’s Highway 1.
With a perfectly balanced 1,340cc inline Four, the Hayabusa is remarkably smooth. In fact, it requires care to avoid slip-ping into triple-digit territory without realizing it. At 100 mph in top gear, the engine is spinning at just 5,200 rpm – or so I’m told (wink wink). It redlines at 11,000 rpm. Do the math.
When straight-lining on the freeway, I often used cruise control to avoid speed creep. The Hayabusa also has an adjustable speed limiter, which can be temporarily overridden to allow a quick pass. Both are part of the comprehensive, IMU-enabled electronics suite that was included in the Suzuki’s overhaul for 2022. There are six ride modes (three are preset and three are customizable) that adjust power, throttle response, engine braking, lean-angle-sensitive traction control, wheelie control, and the quickshifter. There’s also launch control, cornering ABS, front-to-rear linked brakes, rear-lift mitigation, hill-hold control, and Suzuki’s Easy Start and Low RPM Assist systems. The only thing missing is a tire-pressure monitor.
When going over a rise, a quick flick of the wrist is all it takes to raise the Hayabusa’s front wheel. Suzuki’s 10-level anti-lift control keeps things in check.
As with state-of-the-art electronics on many motorcycles, they sound more complicated in theory than they are in practice. You can just start the bike and ride it without having to figure anything out, and many of the safety functions operate in the background, called upon only when needed. Changing the ride mode is as simple as pushing a button, and setting and adjusting cruise control is a no-brainer. Customizing the “user” ride modes takes a few extra steps, but even that isn’t difficult. The Hayabusa has a crisp, bright, easy-to-read TFT color display in the center of the dash, and it’s flanked by four analog gauges for road speed, engine speed, fuel level, and engine temperature, the latter two being smaller and having attractive gold bezels.
The instrument panel pairs classic analog gauges with a TFT color display. Everything you need to know is right where you expect it to be.
STRUTTING ITS STUFF
From the gauges to the chrome-plated trailing edge of the fairing, the new Hayabusa is a work of art. Opinions are often mixed regarding its bulbous, aerodynamic shape, but there’s no denying that the bike looks fast even when standing still. A pair of massive ram-air ducts surround the stacked LED headlight. Turnsignals are integrated into the bodywork to reduce drag and visual clutter. Black panels between the bottom of the tank and the massive twin-spar frame are embossed with a pattern inspired by the neck feathers of the Hayabusa’s namesake, the peregrine falcon. That falcon is represented by the large kanji character on the fairing, which is also found atop the headlight shroud and on the TFT at start-up. At sunset, the Metallic Matte Sword Silver paint reflects the light so softly that the bodywork looks airbrushed.
Our test bike’s Metallic Matte Sword Silver paint looks stunning during the magic hour. The Hayabusa kanji symbol, also found on the headlight shroud and TFT, is iconic.
For a long weekend trip up the coast to Sonoma Raceway for the Progressive IMS Outdoors show, I installed Nelson-Rigg’s Commuter tankbag and tailbag. With its stretched-out dimensions and wide, thick seat, the Hayabusa has a reasonably comfortable cockpit. Clip-on handlebars are mounted at the same level as the triple clamp, and after a while the weight on the rider’s wrists becomes tiresome. The bubble-style windscreen projects airflow at chest level, providing some support at speed. Cruise control was a blessing, and a set of bar risers would probably be transformative during long-distance jaunts.
View of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge from Fort Baker.
To allow for generous cornering clearance, the Hayabusa has high footpegs. With a seat height of 31.5 inches, legroom is limited. I’m 6 feet tall with a 34-inch inseam, so there was a sharp bend in my middle-aged knees. Stopping often to take photos of the Hayabusa in scenic locations gave me a welcome excuse to stretch my legs.
While the Hayabusa’s ergonomics are not ideal for long days in the saddle, its creamy smooth engine transmits very little vibration to the rider, and its enormous boxy mufflers keep noise to a dull roar. When hard on the gas, the four-piece band plays a lively tune, but otherwise the Suzuki sounds relaxed and understressed.
Low clip-ons, high footpegs, and a stretched-out cockpit are better suited for sport riding than long distances.
Big, powerful engines pump out lots of heat, and the Hayabusa’s 1,340cc mill is no exception. Its massive curved radiator was redesigned to reduce air resistance and increase air flow for better cooling efficiency. Below it is a second radiator that cools engine oil. Large exhaust vents between the side fairing panels pull hot air away from the engine and around the rider. Even on triple-digit days, the only time engine heat was noticeable was at a stop or riding in slow traffic.
While unmistakably a Hayabusa from a distance, the new model’s bodywork and mirrors were redesigned to be even more aerodynamic. Overall, it looks more cohesive.
STRONG BONES
A robust chassis is necessary to harness enormous power. With architecture inspired by Suzuki’s MotoGP GSX-RR racebikes, the Hayabusa’s twin-spar aluminum frame and swingarm use both cast and extruded sections to optimize strength and tuned flex. The 1.5-pounds-lighter subframe is made of rectangular steel tubing to provide the strength needed to support a rider and passenger.
Panels between the tank and frame are embossed to look like the neck feathers of a peregrine falcon.
The ’Busa’s fully adjustable KYB suspension is responsive and compliant, and it can be softened for comfort or stiffened for sport or track riding. Top-spec Brembo Stylema front calipers squeeze 320mm floating discs, and they provide excellent feel at the lever and hold-your-horses power. The combined braking system adds some rear brake when the front lever is pulled, which helps stabilize the chassis. Cast 17-inch wheels are wrapped in grippy Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22 rubber with a neutral profile that helps the Hayabusa turn in smoothly and hold its line.
FAST IS AS FAST DOES
When hypersport-touring on the Hayabusa, scenery tends to blur.
As modern as it is, the Hayabusa feels like a throwback. When you see the latest model parked, you know exactly what it is. It shares an unmistakable family resemblance with the original, paradigm-shifting GSX1300R that debuted more than two decades ago. The top-speed wars are over, brought to an end through diplomacy rather than supremacy (though the Haya-busa was the king when the OEMs laid down their swords).
One of the best riding roads in California – Highway 58 – has no services and is usually deserted.
The Hayabusa is not a sportbike intended for racing homologation. It’s a big, bold sportbike intended for speed and style, however you choose to interpret those terms. Some will lower it, add a turbo, and go drag racing or land-speed racing. Oth-ers will extend the swingarm, fit the fattest rear tire they can find, chrome and polish surfaces, and show it off at bike nights. Hayabusas will find their way to the track. Hayabusas will be pressed into duty for commuting, Sunday morning rides, or, as we did, hypersport-touring.
The Hayabusa moves swiftly and confidently through curves with unshakable stability. Extra effort is required when the road tightens up.
Like the Honda Grom we recently tested, the Hayabusa is a cult bike that has spawned niches and subcultures, each with its own secret handshake. Nearly 200,000 of them have been sold since it was introduced in 1999. While much of the motorcycle market has become divided into ever smaller specialties and segments, the Hayabusa has remained faithful to its roots rather than chase trends. It evolved over time, and its extensive third-generation redesign brings it up to date without reinventing the wheel.
For nearly a quarter century, the Hayabusa’s fundamental purpose has been to go fast. It does so like few other motorcycles.
2022 Suzuki Hayabusa Specs
Base Price: $18,599 Warranty: 1 yr., unltd. miles Website:suzukicycles.com
ENGINE
Type: Liquid-cooled, transverse inline Four, DOHC w/ 4 valves per cyl. Displacement: 1,340cc Bore x Stroke: 81.0 x 65.0mm Compression Ratio: 12.5:1 Valve Insp. Interval: 15,000 miles Fuel Delivery: EFI w/ throttle-by-wire, 43mm throttle bodies x 4 Lubrication System: Wet sump, 3.6 qt. cap. Transmission: 6-speed, hydraulically actuated slip/assist wet clutch Final Drive: O-ring chain
CHASSIS
Frame: Twin-spar cast/extruded aluminum frame & swingarm Wheelbase: 58.3 in. Rake/Trail: 23 degrees/3.5 in. Seat Height: 31.5 in. Suspension, Front: 43mm inverted fork, fully adj., 4.7 in. travel Rear: Single shock, fully adj., 5.5 in. travel Brakes, Front: Dual 320mm floating discs w/ radial 4-piston monoblock calipers & ABS Rear: Single 260mm disc w/ 1-piston caliper & ABS Wheels, Front: Cast aluminum, 3.50 x 17 in. Rear: Cast aluminum, 6.00 x 17 in. Tires, Front: 120/70-ZR17 Rear: 190/50-ZR17 Wet Weight: 582 lbs.
KTM’s line of naked bikes has steadily evolved over the past 25 years. We assembled the latest lineup of Dukes (left to right: 200 Duke, 390 Duke, 890 Duke, and 1290 Super Duke R) for a side-by-side evaluation. Photos by Kevin Wing.
KTM rose to prominence with its competition-winning two-stroke dirtbikes, but in 1994 the Austrian manufacturer made its first foray into the four-stroke streetbike market with the 620 Duke. The original Duke arrived on the scene just as supermoto replicas were booming in popularity. The tall, powerful machines with wide bars, much like enduro bikes but running on 17-inch road tires, were a blast to ride. Packing 50 horses, the light and lithe 620 Duke was the most powerful thumper on the street at the time, earning it a hooligan reputation.
KTM has come a long way since then, but the early Duke DNA – wide bars, a tall stance, and exhilarating power – carries over to the current lineup. Every model – 200 Duke, 390 Duke, 890 Duke (an R model is also available), and 1290 Super Duke R (shown left to right above) – is a naked bike with an upright seating position and a wide, flat seat, and most are versatile enough for urban riding, canyon carving, and even sport-touring. With styling by Kiska, they share bold, angular bodywork and typically favor KTM’s trademark orange on powdercoated frames and bodywork. The split headlight on the three largest Dukes also split the opinion of our test riders.
What are the four Dukes like, and what sort of buyers will they appeal to? We rode them back-to-back to find out.
200 Duke: Scrappy Underdog
Both the smaller Dukes possess thrilling riding characteristics that belie their diminutive displacements. The 200 has a highway-ready top speed and lightning-quick handling.
Though powered by a 200cc Single that made just 22 horsepower and 13 lb-ft of torque at the rear wheel on Jett Tuning’s dyno, the 200 Duke is more substantial than the numbers suggest and didn’t appear out of place among its larger siblings. It has the same physical dimensions and 3.5-gallon tank as the 390, but weighs 20 pounds less and its seat is an inch lower. Like all of the Dukes, the 200 has a chromoly tubular-steel trellis frame, and our test bike had a black main frame, a white subframe, and orange wheels.
Suspension is proficiently handled by a non-adjustable WP Apex inverted fork and a preload-adjustable rear shock. Single-disc brakes front and rear include Bybre (an abbreviation of “by Brembo,” a subsidiary focused on smaller machines) calipers, and ABS is standard and can be disabled at the rear wheel. The monochrome LCD instrument panel looks dated, and the one on our test bike needed to be unplugged and reset to fix a glitch. The 200 is the only Duke with a non-LED headlight and the only one that doesn’t have the split design.
The 200 Duke’s exhaust exits from a box below the swingarm pivot, distinguishing it from the traditional mufflers on the larger Dukes.
It’s only natural to label the 200 as an entry-level bike, and it’s well-suited for that role with unintimidating power and brakes that aren’t grabby and won’t easily lock up. With a flat torque curve and six gears, the 200 is more than capable of cruising at over 70 mph on the freeway, with a top speed approaching 85 mph. The chassis and suspension are well matched, and the 200 is light and exceptionally agile, making it exciting on curvy roads. At full tilt, the brakes could do with more muscle, and aggressive or larger riders will yearn for more power, especially going uphill. Our testing team was unanimous in concluding that the 200 exceeded expectations, especially on the fun scale.
The 200 is a perfect first motorcycle, and it offers more performance than entry-level bikes like the Honda Grom (see test on page 58) and the Royal Enfield Meteor 350. But new riders may outgrow the 200 quickly and trade up to – or even start off with – the 390.
390 Duke: Fierce Featherweight
In the right hands, the 390 will readily embarrass larger, more powerful machines on tight, technical roads.
The 390 is a considerable step up from the 200, and the extra $1,700 is worth the investment. Despite its small size, the 390 is a rider’s motorcycle. Its 373cc Single pumps out 42 horsepower and 27 lb-ft of torque at the rear wheel. The suspension and brakes have a similar specification as the 200, but the fork and shock have about an inch more travel and feel better damped, and with its larger front rotor (320mm vs. 300) the 390’s brakes feel stronger and more precise. An LED headlight, a color TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity, and adjustable levers are welcome upgrades over the 200.
The 390 Duke is a blast to ride and punches well above its weight class. Tipping the scales at just 359 pounds wet and offering outstanding maneuverability and usable performance, the 390 will appeal to a broad spectrum of riders and was universally loved by our testers. Despite its power deficit, the 390 was able to keep up with the larger Dukes on tight, twisty sections of road, only falling behind when the pavement straightened out.
As with the 200, the 390 has a single-disc brakes on both wheels, but with a larger 320mm rotor. ABS is standard and can be switched off at the rear wheel (Supermoto mode).
New riders, including those who want to go fast, will have years of enjoyment ahead of them on the 390 Duke. This is the sleeper bike, the one that might get overlooked by seasoned riders but packs a ton of fun into a small, affordable package. It can be a carefree, fuel-efficient commuter during the week, and on weekends it’s just a throttle twist away from being a canyon-carving dragon slayer.
890 Duke: Super Middleweight
The 890 channels the hooligan attitude of the original 620 Duke.
Nicknamed the “Scalpel,” the 890 Duke hews closest to the original Duke formula: light, agile, and capable of hair-on-fire thrills. Its 889cc parallel-Twin is good for 111 horsepower and 67 lb-ft of torque at the rear wheel in a bike that weighs just 405 pounds wet. Compared to the 390, you get 164% more power and just 13% more weight, but you’ll pay nearly twice as much in the bargain.
That’s a big jump in price, but everything is better. The WP Apex suspension, with a non-adjustable inverted fork and a preload-adjustable rear shock, offers better damping and more travel. (The 890 Duke R is equipped with higher-spec adjustable suspension.) The triple-disc brakes with multi-mode cornering ABS are precise and reassuring. It also has riding modes, multi-level traction control, and wheelie control, allowing our testers to tailor the riding experience as desired. Our test bike was fitted with the dealer-installed Tech Pack ($750), which includes the Track Pack (Track mode, 9-level TC, anti-wheelie off, and launch control), Motor Slip Regulation, and up/down Quickshifter+.
The 890 embodies the essential qualities of KTM’s naked bike philosophy: raw power coupled with sharp handling and equally sharp styling.
None of us were immune to the 890’s charms. We praised its dart-like handling, eager yet smooth power delivery, strong, progressive brakes, and sure-footed chassis. The Twin’s 270-degree firing order delivers a broad spread of torque for blasting out of corners and adds a pleasing crackle on downshifts. The 890 is a standout machine that encourages you to test its handling and your nerve, and it consistently rewards the rider with confidence-inspiring feel and agility or a gentle prod where lesser machines fall short.
The 890 is no show pony. It is a mustang, wild at heart, straining at the bit, and embodies the essence of the Duke series: immediate power and razor-sharp cornering stripped down to the barest of essentials. When it comes to performance and handling, nothing is superfluous in the 890, and nothing is wanting. Experienced riders with even the slightest inclination toward spirited riding will never tire of putting the 890 Duke through its paces, and yet it remains friendly and forgiving enough for jaunts around the city or sport-touring with some soft luggage. Just point it at the twistiest road you can find and open the throttle.
1290 Super Duke R: When Too Much is Not Enough
The 1290 Duke turns the knob up to 11 and makes itself heard in the sporty streetfighter category.
Introduced in 2014, the 1290 Super Duke R – known as “The Beast” – is the pointy end of KTM’s streetbike spear. Updated last year, it’s more powerful and lighter than ever, with its 1,301cc V-Twin churning out an asphalt-buckling 166 horsepower and 94 lb-ft of torque at the rear wheel.
Fully adjustable WP Apex suspension is tuned to handle the Super Duke’s immense power, and it delivers a firm but confident ride. Brembo Stylema front brake calipers feel like they came off an airliner, such is their awesome strength, and while some in the test group felt they had too much initial bite, others raved about them. Riding modes and a full suite of six-axis IMU-enabled electronic riding aids allow The Beast to be tamed or unleashed, and our test bike was equipped with the dealer-installed Tech Pack ($750). The LED headlight incorporates an air intake, but overall styling remains much the same – angular, aggressive, looking for a fight. Creature comforts include self-canceling turnsignals, cruise control, and keyless ignition, steering lock, and gas cap.
The 1290 Duke is imposing, but is undeniably nimble.
The Super Duke elicited the most controversy when it came to the post-riding discussions. Like a silver-backed gorilla, it packs serious punch, but if you treat the 1290 with respect, it will respond in kind. The ocean of torque allows for lazy meandering along open roads, as well as controlled spurts of acceleration and braking demanded by dense traffic. But should you decide to be aggressive with the Super Duke, be sure to have your senses, skills, and reactions at peak readiness, as it comes by its Beast moniker honestly.
The bike feels tall and, with its humpback tank, a little imposing, but its 441-pound curb weight is quite manageable. Although the steering is heavier than on the 890 due to its lazier rake and slightly longer wheelbase, the 1290 is nonetheless nimble and responsive. For a couple of our testers, the difference was partly psychological. Whereas the 890 felt in alignment with their skill set, the 1290’s capabilities felt beyond them. Part of the excitement of riding a motorcycle is the ability to give it full throttle, but doing so on the 1290 is short-lived at best and more appropriate for wide-open roads or even the racetrack.
When considering potential owners for this exceptional machine, it is best suited for those with a high level of riding skills and experience. Some buyers just want the best, or the most, or both, and the 1290 Super Duke R will deliver on those promises. This horse will carry like a Clydesdale and run like a thoroughbred. Beyond that, the KTM 1290 Super Duke R defies reason, in the sense that it offers almost too much of everything, which you could argue is precisely what a Super Duke should do. For most riders, however, the 890 is probably a better fit and will be more enjoyable to ride. Like Dirty Harry said, riders must know their limitations.
All in the Family
Their styling may be polarizing, but KTM’s ability to maximize performance and minimize weight ensures that the current crop of Dukes are worthy successors to the name.
Within the KTM Duke range, from the $3,999 200 Duke to the $18,699 1290 Super Duke R, there is a bike for nearly every rider, from those just starting out to those at the top of their game, from commuters to weekend warriors to track-day junkies. While only the 200 and 390 are likely to be cross-shopped by potential buyers, we found the 390 and 890 to be the most broadly appealing of the four. For experienced riders, the 200 may be too little, and for some, the 1290 may be out of reach, but every bike here earned the respect of our testing team.
2021 KTM Duke Lineup Specs
2021 KTM 200 Duke Specs
Base Price: $3,999 Warranty: 2 yrs., 24,000 miles Website: ktm.com
Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, transverse Single, DOHC w/ 4 valves Displacement: 200cc Bore x Stroke: 72.0 x 49.0mm Compression Ratio: 11.5:1 Valve Insp. Interval: 9,300 miles Fuel Delivery: EFI, 38mm throttle body Lubrication System: Wet sump, 1.6 qt. cap. Transmission: 6-speed, cable-actuated wet clutch Final Drive: X-ring chain
Chassis Frame: Chromoly steel trellis & cast aluminum swingarm Wheelbase: 53.4 in. ± 0.6 in. Rake/Trail: 25 degrees/3.7 in. Seat Height: 31.6 in. Suspension, Front: 43mm inv. fork, no adj., 4.6 in. travel Rear: Single shock, adj. preload, 5.0 in. travel Brakes, Front: Single 300mm disc w/ radial 4-piston caliper & ABS Rear: Single 230mm disc w/ 1-piston caliper & ABS Wheels, Front: Cast aluminum, 3.00 x 17 in. Rear: Cast aluminum, 4.00 x 17 in. Tires, Front: 110/70-ZR17 Rear: 150/60-ZR17 Wet Weight: 339 lbs.
The LCD on the 200 (top left) falls short of the full-color TFTs on the larger Dukes, which provide clear, readable information, with a tach, speedo, gear position, and more. In low light, the displays change from a white background (shown on the 390) to black (shown on the 890) or orange (only on the 1290).
The 2022 Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RR is a more track-focused, higher-spec, partially faired sportbike than the Speed Triple 1200 RS. It arrives in January.
Triumph has released details about the 2022 Speed Triple 1200 RR, which its says will deliver “the most focused and exhilarating Speed Triple ride ever.” The new RR shares the 1,160 cc liquid-cooled, transverse inline-Triple engine powering the 2021 Speed Triple RS we recently tested, and the same aluminum twin-spar frame and subframe. But under the skin, and there is a skin, the new RR takes the Speed Triple in a new direction.
Styling cues that combine “distinctive British elegance with exhilarating real-world performance” are influenced by Triumph’s Modern Classic lineup. The RR has a single round headlight and a partial fairing. It’s the first liter-class Triumph sportbike to get a fairing since the Daytona 955i, which was discontinued in 2006.
Under the skin, the new RR is a cutting-edge track rocket.
The Speed Triple RR is identical to the RS in terms of performance, rake, trail, seat height, and wheels. but the RR’s clip-on handlebars are 5 inches lower and 2 inches further forward, and coupled with the new footpeg position foretell aggressive race-bred ergonomics. If the RS is a streetbike for the track, the 2022 Speed Triple RR has all the makings of a track bike for the street.
Equipped with Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 electronically adjustable semi-active suspension, which works in tandem with the IMU sensor to manage traction in real-time, automatically adjusting compression and rebound damping. The sticky Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP V3 tires fitted to the cast aluminum wheels are about as close as you can get to slicks on a street-legal bike. The Brembo Stylema monobloc front calipers over 320mm floating discs, and the 2-piston caliper and 220mm single disc at the rear are now linked on the RR, and an adjustable Brembo MCS lever is fitted as standard.
The RR also shares the RS’s stacked 6-speed gearbox designed to maximize power transfer from engine to gearbox when accelerating, but still allow clutch slip during aggressive downshifting, providing improved rear wheel control. An innovative up/down quickshifter features Moto2-derived technology and can map gear shifts against real-time parameters. Optimized cornering ABS and switchable cornering traction control systems utilize roll, pitch, yaw, and acceleration data, to calculate the lean angle and actively control ABS and TC according to the chosen riding mode.
Additional rider aids include switchable wheelie control, cruise control, and five riding modes – Road, Rain, Sport, Rider-configurable, and a Track mode, which limits ABS and traction control intervention. The riding modes have multiple levels of intervention to choose from and are selected and adjusted via a five-inch optically bonded TFT display. Featuring full connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation, GoPro control, and a lap timer for use on track. As with the RS, the RR has LED lighting throughout, including a DRL, a rear light integrated into the tail unit, LED self-canceling turnsignals, and a full keyless ignition/fuel cap system.
The RS we recently tested was a huge leap forward for the Speed Triple. The new chassis and engine combination made for sublime handling, precise agility, and immense performance. Carbon-fiber infill panels incorporated into the new RR’s tank, fairing, and cockpit, combined with carbon-fiber side panels and front mudguard, help to explain the minimal difference in weight between the two Speed Triples. The RR is just 2 pounds heavier, ensuring that the immense performance of the Speed Triple 1200 RS developed by its lightweight, low-inertia engine (with a claimed 177 horsepower and 92 lb-ft of torque) will not be lost on the RR.
Triumph is eager to point out the unique nature of the new Speed Triple RR, and to some extent, it’s difficult to pin it to an existing class. It’s no longer a naked, obviously, and although it shares the performance figures and components of the current class of MotoGP-inspired sportbikes, it doesn’t share their styling. No wings or aero adorn its smooth lines, which are more familiar to the retro designs. Regardless of classification, on paper, at least the new Speed Triple RR looks like it will ride like an Exocet missile on wheels.
Two color schemes come as standard: Red Hopper and Storm Grey or Crystal White and Storm Grey with gold detailing.
This new model comes in two paint schemes: Red Hopper and Storm Grey or Crystal White and Storm Grey with gold detailing. Both schemes are available as standard and include a color-coded belly pan and seat cowl, supplied in addition to the pillion seat. The RR has a two-year unlimited mileage warranty and service intervals of 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, and over 30 genuine Triumph accessories for customizing your RR. Available in dealerships from January 2022, MSRP is $20,950.
The 2022 KTM RC 390 has been thoroughly updated with a lighter chassis, advanced electronics, new bodywork and instrumentation, and more.
KTM has announced the release of its an update to its lightweight sportbike, the 2022 RC 390. KTM says the race-derived chassis and high-end electronics will be standout items in the small-displacement sportbike class, and the new generation KTM RC 390 has been redesigned with track intentions in mind. The bodywork has received Grand Prix-inspired styling, which not only looks the part but promises improved aerodynamics and performance, thanks to a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) design process.
New inner and out panel placements are designed to optimize wind and weather protection, and enhanced heat management by directing airflow away from the rider. The rear section has been reduced as much as possible for a more aggressive profile and reveals more of the redesigned steel trellis subframe.
KTM has paid special attention to improving ergonomics to enhance comfort without compromising on-track performance. The knee area was designed to be as narrow as possible with the largest possible contact area, allowing for fluid rider movement.
An all-new two-part cockpit and windscreen holder makes use of a cast aluminum upper area and a lower composite part that secures the headlight, while a larger 3.6-gallon fuel tank has been added for improved range. The new bodywork is easily removable, with a reduced number of attaching screws and a redesigned mounting system, which makes swapping out the street-legal bodywork for race-ready panels more practical.
The 2022 KTM RC 390 was developed with a focus on weight savings, particularly throughout the chassis. An all-new wheel design sheds 7.5 pounds of unsprung weight versus the previous model, while the new ByBre braking system saves another 2.1 pounds and the 3.3-pounds-lighter frame promises extremely agile handling.
The suspension has also been updated with an adjustable open-cartridge WP APEX inverted fork, featuring 30 clicks of both compression and rebound adjustment. A WP APEX rear shock is adjustable for preload and rebound.
The KTM RC 390 is powered by a liquid-cooled 373cc Single with DOHC, four valves per cylinder, and electronic fuel injection. For 2022, it delivers more torque than the previous model thanks to a new engine mapping and airbox design.
The new generation is now equipped with several rider aids that rarely make an appearance in the lightweight class and include: cornering ABS with supermoto mode, cornering traction control, and an optional quickshifter.
The new TFT color display enables riders to access information at a glance, and the display can be customized to show desired data sets and automatically adapts to ambient light levels. It offers Bluetooth connectivity to the KTM My Ride app.
Pricing and availability for the 2022 KTM RC 390 have not yet been announced. For more information, visit
2022 KTM RC 390 Specs
Base Price: NA Website:ktm.com Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, transverse Single, DOHC w/ 4 valves per cyl. Displacement: 373cc Bore x Stroke: 60 x 89mm Horsepower: 43 hp (claimed, at the crank) Torque: NA Transmission: 6-speed, cable-actuated slip/assist wet clutch Final Drive: X-ring chain Wheelbase: NA Rake/Trail: 23.5 degrees/NA Seat Height: NA Suspension, Front: 43mm inverted fork, adj. compression & rebound Rear: Single shock, adj. rebound & spring preload Brakes, Front: Single 320mm disc w/ radial 4-piston caliper & ABS Rear: Single 230mm disc w/ 1-piston caliper & ABS Tires, Front: 110/70 x 17 Rear: 150/60 x 17 Wet Weight: NA Fuel Capacity: 3.6 gals.
The new Tuono V4 Factory is still an out-and-out hypernaked sport-bike, with upgraded suspension and new electronics. (Photos by Larry Chen Photo)
It was a glorious morning in Pasadena, California, and the huge windows overlooking historic Colorado Boulevard bathed Aprilia’s Advanced Design Center office in natural light. Miguel Galluzzi, whom many credit with saving Ducati when he designed the groundbreaking and immensely popular Monster, sat impassively as the room filled with journalists. Galluzzi is also the designer responsible for Aprilia’s RSV4 and Tuono V4 models, which take full advantage of the extremely compact and powerful 1,077cc V4 engine.
Galluzzi explained that the Advanced Design Center allows his team to sit at the heart of the North American market, where proximity to a diverse group of riders and their viewpoints can be fed directly into their design process, fresh and unfiltered. The latest CAD technology and 3D printing allow design ideas inspired by feedback, coupled with cutting-edge advances trickling down from Aprilia’s factory racing team, to be prototyped and tested more efficiently than ever.
The two models – Tuono V4 Factory on left, Tuono V4 on right – are almost identical on paper, but offer different experiences.
The result, we are told, are the most advanced Tuono models yet, a combination of incremental updates designed to improve handling and accommodate a broad spectrum of riders’ needs. The V4 engine is now Euro 5 compliant, and with some tweaking Aprilia has managed to match the outgoing model’s performance. Claimed peak horsepower is 175 at 11,350 rpm and maximum torque is 89 lb-ft at 9,000 rpm.
Influences from the racetrack include a redesigned fairing with integrated winglets and enhanced geometry to improve handling at the limits, as well as a new inverted swingarm designed to improve traction at the rear wheel. The updated seat is wider, longer, and surprisingly comfortable. A new sculpted fuel tank looks gorgeous and maintains the same 4.9-gallon capacity. The Tuono V4 gets an improved 5-inch TFT dash and new switchgear. The headlight array features the triple LED headlight and a DRL configuration common to the rest of the Tuono line, with the addition of cornering lights.
The Tuono V4 is designed to take you further, with all the thrills, added comfort, and even luggage, if required.
Despite being nearly identical on paper, the new Tuono V4 models are quite different in terms of experience. Track rats will be happy to hear that the V4 Factory model is still an out-and-out naked maniac, and is the more expensive, track-focused of the two. The street-focused Tuono V4 represents a new direction, designed to go places carrying more than just a rider and a bare minimum of gear.
The Factory version is now fitted with Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 semi-active suspension and a new Magneti Marelli ECU, controlling fueling and a full suite of electronics. Four times faster than the previous ECU and fully integrated via ride-by-wire throttle and a six-axis IMU, the new setup promises more precise and programable handling for road and track. There are three preset and three track-oriented, user-programmable riding modes, and a host of adjustable rider aids, including traction control, wheelie control, launch control, engine mapping, engine braking, cornering ABS, cruise control, and an up/down quickshifter.
The Tuono V4 is billed as a naked, but a minimalist fairing now incorporates racing inspired winglets.
Siting astride the Factory, it feels much more compact than might be expected from a liter bike. The body position is definitely sporty, but the wide bars and seat feel roomy, even for my 6-foot 2-inch stature. Setting off in Tour mode, within the first few miles the V4 Factory somehow feels familiar. Even on the highway leading us to the twisty mountain roads, it is impossible to completely open the throttle for more than a moment before running out of road, and any true test of the Factory model would require a racetrack.
Throttle response is immediate but initial ham-fistedness is miraculously smoothed out before I can get myself into trouble and I throw the Tuono into the turns with some confidence. Steering is light yet purposeful and exact, the front wheel holding its line despite less-than-perfect surface conditions. A single pop on the downshift raises a smile, and ballistic acceleration on corner exits, accompanied by one of the most fantastic, raspy exhaust notes ever to erupt from a stock can, leaves me grinning like an idiot.
The Tuono V4 Factory is nimble and precise, even on less than perfect roads.
The Factory is fitted with Brembo’s M50 monoblock front calipers, which offer progressive feel and no want of braking capability. With my knees firmly pocketed in the sculpted tank I can keep my weight off the bars, gripping the bike with less effort, and lean into corners with a connected conviction. The V4 Factory’s comfort and ergonomics compare quite well to rivals like the KTM 1290 Super Duke R and Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS, yet its sportbike credentials remain intact.
The standard Tuono V4 feels similar. Slightly raised handlebars make for a less aggressive stance. Despite lower pillion pegs, the rider’s footpegs are identically placed on both models, providing plenty of clearance but also a potential source of fatigue over long distances. A slightly larger fly screen and upper fairing, a practical pillion seat, grab handles, and optional luggage all make for a hyper-naked sport-tourer, with a heavy emphasis on sport.
Performance is identical to the Factory model, and the standard model will make a capable track-day machine if required. Its taller top gear makes for comfortable, economical highway cruising, as you make your way to the next winding backroad. The standard comes equipped with fully adjustable Sachs suspension, front and rear, but on the road, its handling is fairly close to that of the Factory.
The new Tuono V4 and Tuono V4 Factory are intoxicating motorcycles. They offer astounding power in a compact, lightweight chassis that is exhilarating. And yet, thanks to its suite of adjustable electronics, they are both rewarding and manageable. And one can never forget – or grow tired of – the machine-gun salute connected to your right wrist. While the Factory will keep the Tuono faithful satisfied, the standard model will open up the Tuono range to a host of new riders, who, like me, actually want to go places and bring more than just our wallet and smartphone.
The new Tuono has a broader appeal. Track enthusiasts will love the factory for its suspension and formidable array of programable settings, while sports riders who like to cover miles can now add the Tuono V4 to their list of possibilities.
2021 Tuono V4 / Tuono V4 Factory Specs
Base Price: $15,999 / $19,499 Website:aprilia.com Engine Type: Liquid cooled, transverse 65-degree V-4, DOHC w/ 4 valves per cyl. Displacement: 1,077cc Bore x Stroke: 81.0 x 52.3mm Horsepower: 175 @ 11,000 rpm (claimed, at crank) Torque: 89 lb-ft @ 9,000 rpm (claimed, at crank) Transmission: 6-speed, cable-actuated slip/assist wet clutch Final Drive: X-ring chain Wheelbase: 57.1 in. Rake/Trail: 24.8 degrees/3.9 in. Seat Height: 32.5 in. Wet Weight: 461 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 4.9 gals.
We test the all-new 2022 Yamaha YZF-R7, a 689cc sportbike based on the MT-07 platform. The R7 delivers track-ready performance within reach, with an MSRP of $8,999.
Since the new middleweight supersport will be part of the R-series family and slot between the YZF-R3 and YZF-R1, it’s only natural to call the new bike YZF-R7. Those with a long memory may recall the 1999 YZF-R7 (aka OW-02), a 500-unit race homologation special built to compete in World Superbike. That sort of unobtainium machine is exactly what Yamaha wanted to avoid with the MT-07-based R7.
We tested the 2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 on the track at Atlanta Motorsports Park. The R7’s easygoing nature was a boon, never threatening or overwhelming, which is the point. It’s accessible for any level of rider. It’s a supersport bike for the masses. More performance than an R3, but more accessible than an R6 or R1 on all fronts. The R7 could be the perfect bike for someone who wants to sharpen their skills on back roads or try their hand at track days or club racing. Less money spent on the bike means more money available for tires – and a sticky set will last a lot longer! Yamaha has done a fine job producing a motorcycle that’s the perfect blend of accessibility and capability.
The Suzuki Hayabusa has received its first major update since 2008. We put it to the test on the track and the street. (Photos by Kevin Wing)
Rewind the clock to 1999. We were approaching the end of the millennium, and it felt like the science-fiction future was just around the corner. The carefree among us were ready to party like Prince, while worrywarts feared a Y2K-induced doomsday for the world’s computers.
That’s the same year that Suzuki introduced a big, bulbous sportbike called the GSX1300R. Appended to its alphanumeric model designation was an unfamiliar name — Hayabusa — the Japanese word for the peregrine falcon, a bird renowned for its ability to exceed 200 mph. Was Suzuki’s 173-horsepower bird of prey capable of the same feat?
Not officially.
The Hayabusa has always had swoopy, aerodynamic bodywork. Designers and engineers spent time in a wind tunnel to massage the new model’s shape.
The top-speed wars of the late ’90s, with the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-11 defeated by the Honda CBR1100XX Blackbird, and the Blackbird defeated by the Hayabusa, caught the attention of European bureaucrats. To avoid regulation or an outright ban on powerful sportbikes, motorcycle manufacturers voluntarily agreed to a top-speed limit of 186 mph (300 kph).
With its slippery bodywork and long wheelbase, the big ’Busa wasn’t designed for roadracing. But that didn’t stop us — back in the day I was part of a team that raced two Hayabusas in a WERA 24-hour endurance event at Willow Springs. Meanwhile, it was the hottest bike on the dragstrips.
Things get blurry in a hurry when you twist the Hayabusa’s loud handle.
Fast forward two decades, and I’m riding the third-generation Hayabusa on the track at Utah Motorsports Campus, pushing the limit to the point of being uncomfortable. Was I tempting fate?
Near the end of UMC’s long front straight, my speed approaches 175 mph. Pop up out of the bubble, get on the binders, set up for Turn 1. Adrenaline is flowing, everything’s happening really fast. Is it possible to have a blast and shit yourself at the same time?
Yes, yes it is.
Some assembly required.
Suzuki’s design brief for the new Hayabusa was “The Refined Beast.” In other words, make the bike better without reinventing the wheel. The Hayabusa’s last major update was back in 2008, when it got a larger engine, a new frame, and other upgrades. Architecture and displacement of the 1,340cc inline four haven’t unchanged, but the engine was thoroughly revised to meet Euro 5 and deliver more low- and midrange power.
Compared to the previous model, peak horsepower and torque are lower — 188 horsepower at 9,700 rpm (down from 194) and 111 lb-ft at 7,000 rpm (down from 114) — but there are sizable gains in the heart of the rev range. Suzuki claims the new Hayabusa goes 0-60 mph in 3.2 seconds, a couple of tenths faster than its predecessor.
The Hayabusa’s 1340cc inline four was thoroughly reworked. New or updated parts are shown in yellow.
Most of the engine’s internals were lightened, strengthened, or refined — cylinder head, valve springs, pistons and piston pins, connecting rods, and crankshaft. Less internal friction helps the engine run quieter and smoother, and critical components are now more durable. Cam profiles were revised to reduce valve lift overlap, redesigned dual injectors for the throttle bodies improve combustion, and revised intake ducts increase pressure flowing into the higher-capacity airbox. A revised radiator improves cooling and a new exhaust system saves 4.5 pounds.
The Hayabusa’s prime directive is to go fast in a straight line, but it likes to go around corners too.
Wrapped in panels of wind-tunnel-tested aerodynamic bodywork and weighing 582 pounds, the Hayabusa is a big bike, almost intimidating at first. With its swooping lines and aggressive curves, it looks as fast as it goes. A 50/50 weight distribution and a low center of gravity help the Hayabusa feel agile. The tight, sporty rider triangle and 31.5-inch seat height suit my 5-foot, 9-inch frame. I was able to move around the cockpit freely and use the controls easily.
What could be better than a constant-radius corner on a blue-sky day?
Suzuki hosted a two-day launch, and we spent the first day plying canyon roads in the Wasatch Mountains east of Salt Lake City. On the road, the ’Busa was in its element and exhibited confident, stable handling. Negotiating tight sections required some effort, but I had no problem picking a line, turning in, and making midcorner adjustments as needed. The fully adjustable KYB suspension provided a comfortable, compliant ride, and it just floated over rough pavement.
With tons of smooth power, agreeable ergonomics, and cruise control, the Hayabusa is the ultimate sport-tourer.
Throttle response was spot-on, with no hesitation or flat spots, and there’s a ridiculous amount of velvety-smooth power available at all times. All it took was a small amount of throttle to make the scenery blur, and gear choice was irrelevant. On the freeway, the Hayabusa never felt stressed, there was a ton of roll-on power for quick passes, and the new cruise control was really well sorted.
A big bike needs big brakes. Brembo Stylema radial-mount 4-piston front calipers squeeze 320mm rotors, and linked cornering ABS is standard.
On a bike this big and fast, strong brakes are essential, and the new Brembo Stylema front calipers and 10mm-larger 320mm rotors did an excellent job of slowing the beast down. The new linked ABS system, which distributes braking force between the front and rear, worked well on the street. Trail braking into corners, I could feel the system engage the rear brake to settle the chassis.
Classic analog gauges are joined by modern full-color TFT display.
As expected, the new Hayabusa gets a full IMU-based electronics package called the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System. Six riding modes (three presets, three customizable) adjust power, engine braking, traction control, and quickshifter mode. SIRS also includes linked cornering ABS, a speed limiter, launch control, slope-descent control, hill-hold control, and cruise control. Everything is adjusted via buttons on the switch clusters, with menus and info displayed on the TFT display centered between the analog speedo and tach.
The Hayabusa’s full electronics package (Suzuki Intelligent Ride System) allows you to tailor the ride experience to road or track.
For both street and track riding, the electronic riding aids allowed me to tailor the Hayabusa’s performance and behavior to the conditions. On public roads, I selected mode B (Basic), which softened throttle response but still allowed full power and put traction control and anti-lift (LF) control in the middle of the range. Mode C (Comfort) reduces power and maximizes TC and LF intervention. On the track, I opted for Mode A (Active), which provides more aggressive throttle response, max power, and minimal intervention. Suzuki’s linked ABS, which uses the IMU to adjust intervention based on lean angle, can’t be turned off. It was helpful on the street, but I found it to be somewhat of a hindrance on the track.
A closed course is the only suitable place to explore the Hayabusa’s limits. There’s more than enough power, so the challenge comes with managing chassis dynamics. There’s no getting around the ’Busa’s size and weight, but its stout twin-spar aluminum frame communicates the desired feel and feedback for attacking corners at a sane pace. As my laps accumulated, my speed and comfort level both increased.
Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22 tires provided plenty of grip.
The bike was well-balanced and responsive to inputs, allowing me to confidently throw it from side to side to the point of scraping the peg feelers and the exhaust. After a few sessions we made some suspension adjustments — less rebound, more compression — that reduced the Hayabusa’s tendency to pitch front to back on corner exits. Then it really came alive, making corner entry and exit much more predictable.
New Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22 tires provided good grip, and the limits of their adhesion were kept in check by the lean-angle-sensitive traction control. Late in the day when the bike was sorted, I was having a great time. I had found my rhythm, and the TC light was flashing out of every corner while I was leaving black marks in my wake. The onboard computer tracks all sorts of cool data — max lean angle, braking pressure front and rear, rates of acceleration and deceleration, etc. — which made for some fun bench racing between sessions.
The Hayabusa’s trademark rear hump can be removed and replaced with a pillion seat. Passengers are encouraged to hang on tight.
All in all, the new Hayabusa is an impressive bike. Looks fast, goes fast, and has all the modern bells and whistles. Maybe it’s time to repeat the comparison test we did back in 2008, when we strapped tank bags and tail bags to a Hayabusa and Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14R and hit the road for a couple days of hypersport touring.
The choice is yours: Metallic Matte Sword Silver and Candy Daring Red, Glass Sparkle Black and Candy Burnt Gold, or Pearl Brilliant White and Metallic Matte Stellar Blue.
2022 Suzuki Hayabusa Specs
Base Price: $18,599 Website:suzukicycles.com Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, transverse in-line four, DOHC w/ 4 valves per cyl. Displacement: 1,340cc Bore x Stroke: 81.0 x 65.0mm Horsepower: 187.8 hp @ 9,700 rpm (claimed, at the crank) Torque: 110.6 lb-ft @ 7,000 rpm (claimed, at the crank) Transmission: 6-speed, cable-actuated assist-and-slipper wet clutch Final Drive: O-ring chain Wheelbase: 58.3 in. Rake/Trail: 23 degrees/3.5 in. Seat Height: 31.5 in. Wet Weight: 582 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 5.3 gals.
Introduced for 2019, the Speed Twin offers engine performance and handling comparable to the Thruxton café racer but with an upright riding position, less weight, and a lower price. For 2022, the Speed Twin’s updated “High Power” version of Triumph’s liquid-cooled, 1,200cc parallel-twin makes 98.6 horsepower at 7,250 rpm and 83 lb-ft of torque at 4,250 rpm (claimed, at the crank). Wet weight is 476 pounds, and pricing starts at $12,500.
2022 Triumph Speed Twin in Red Hopper
Compared to the previous Speed Twin’s engine, the updated powerplant now meets Euro 5 emissions standards and offers more peak horsepower, more midrange horsepower and torque, a lower torque peak, and 17% less inertia for better response. Power is sent to the rear wheel through a 6-speed transmission, a torque-assist clutch, and chain final drive.
To improve handling, the Speed Twin gets a higher-spec Marzocchi USD cartridge fork, Brembo M50 monoblock calipers, lighter cast aluminum 12-spoke wheels, and Metzeler Racetec RR tires.
2022 Triumph Speed Twin in Matte Storm Grey
Three riding modes — Sport, Road, and Rain — have been revised, and they adjust throttle response and intervention from the switchable traction control. Other standard equipment includes ABS, LED lighting with a DRL, an underseat USB charging port, and an ignition immobilizer. Sorry folks, still no cruise control.
The Speed Twin’s styling has been refreshed with new brushed stainless-steel upswept silencers, new anodized headlight and mudguard mounts, and new tank graphics.
2022 Triumph Speed Twin in Jet Black
The 2022 Triumph Speed Twin is available in Red Hopper, Matte Storm Grey, and Jet Black, and it will be in dealerships in August.
2022 Triumph Speed Twin Specs
Base Price: $12,500 Website:triumphmotorcycles.com Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, transverse parallel twin, SOHC w/ 4 valves per cyl. Displacement: 1,200cc Bore x Stroke: 97.6 x 80mm Horsepower: 98.6 @ 7,250 rpm (claimed, at the crank) Torque: 83 lb-ft @ 4,250 rpm (claimed, at the crank) Fuel Delivery: Electronic fuel injection & throttle-by-wire Transmission: 6-speed, cable-actuated torque-assist wet clutch Final Drive: O-ring chain Frame: Tubular steel w/ aluminum cradles, cast aluminum swingarm Wheelbase: 55.6 in. Rake/Trail: 22.3 degrees/3.6 in. Seat Height: 31.9 in. Suspension, Front: 43mm USD fork, no adj., 4.7 in. travel Rear: Dual shocks, adj. for spring preload, 4.7 in. travel Brakes, Front: Dual 320mm discs w/ radial-mount opposed 4-piston monoblock calipers & ABS Rear: Single 220mm disc w/ 2-piston floating caliper & ABS Wheels, Front: Cast aluminum, 3.5 x 17 in. Rear: Cast aluminum, 5.0 x 17 in. Tires, Front: 120/70-ZR17 Rear: 160/60-ZR17 Wet Weight: 476 lbs. Fuel Capacity: 3.8 gals. Fuel Consumption: 41.8 mpg (EPA)
The 2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 is an all-new supersport based on the MT-07 platform. (Photos by Drew Ruiz)
What’s a rider to do if they want a supersport bike, but they don’t have the funds for a true race replica like the Yamaha YZF-R6 ($12,199) or YZF-R1 ($17,399)? Some will buy used, but doing so confidently can be a challenge, and financing may not be an option if buying from a private seller.
Yamaha’s solution is to take a proven platform — in this case, the MT-07 naked bike — and adapt it to supersport duty. Then price it within reach at $8,999.
New bodywork, chassis updates, and other changes make 2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 ready for track duty or sport riding.
Since the new middleweight supersport will be part of the R-series family and slot between the YZF-R3 and YZF-R1 (there’s no YZF-R6 for 2021, and the 2022 model has yet to be announced), it’s only natural to call the new bike YZF-R7. Those with a long memory may recall the 1999 YZF-R7 (aka OW-02), a 500-unit race homologation special built to compete in World Superbike. That sort of unobtainium machine is exactly what Yamaha wanted to avoid with the MT-07-based R7.
Behind the full fairing is the tried-and-true 689cc CPS parallel-twin, a versatile engine that powers several Yamaha models.
To create the YZF-R7, Yamaha made key changes to the MT-07 platform, such as new bodywork and revisions to the chassis. The 689cc CP2 parallel-twin, which has a crossplane-style 270-degree crankshaft and an uneven firing order, is a versatile motor also found in Yamaha’s Ténéré 700 adventure bike and MT-07 flat-track racer. It has usable power but not so much that it will overwhelm new or less experienced riders. For the R7, Yamaha fitted an assist-and-slipper assist clutch and a optional quick shifter, and a gearing change adds a little more acceleration and thrill into the mix.
The 2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 has a fully adjustable KYB fork, radial-mount 4-piston Advics front calipers with a Brembo master cylinder, and 17-inch cast aluminum wheels shod with Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22 tires (for the track test Yamaha ran Bridgestone Battlax Racing R11 tires).
Chassis-wise the R7 features a steeper rake (23.7 degrees vs. 24.8), slightly less trail and a shorter wheelbase (54.9 inches vs. 55.1) than the MT-07. A revised radiator improves cooling and accommodates a new fully adjustable 41mm inverted KYB fork with spring rates similar to those on the R6. The R7 also uses a smaller, lighter (by 2.4 pounds) battery like the R6. Wider triple clamps accommodate four-piston brake calipers, and offset is now 37mm compared to 40mm on the MT-07. At the rear, revised shock linkage raises rear ride height, and a new KYB shock offers adjustable spring preload and rebound damping. A rigid-mount aluminum center brace is bolted to the steel frame at the swingarm pivot for increased torsional rigidity.
A narrow chassis and a compact engine help keep the 2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 very narrow.
With a seat that’s higher than the MT-07’s (32.9 inches vs. 31.7), clip-on handlebars, and a rider triangle inspired by the R6, the riding position is aggressive without being extreme. Compared to the MT-07, changes to the chassis and ergonomics enhance the handling capabilities of the R7, and overall it’s a comfortable, nimble motorcycle. Fresh bodywork wrapped around a compact engine and chassis make the bike every narrow and aerodynamic, like a cross between the R6 and R1, and it very much looks the part.
New bodywork includes all-LED lighting. Mirrors, turn signals, and license plate bracket were removed for the track test.
It’s always fun to go to a track you’ve never seen before, and it’s even better on a bike you never ridden before. Yamaha hosted the R7 launch at Atlanta Motorsports Park, a tight, hilly track with a few fast sections thrown in to make things interesting. We needed several laps to familiarize ourselves with the layout, especially with the blind corners and elevation changes. The R7’s easygoing nature was a boon for navigating the unfamiliar territory — never threatening or overwhelming, which is the point. Accessible for any level of rider.
The stiffened frame, upgraded suspension, and strong brakes allowed me to dive the 2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 into corners with confidence.
As I rounded the track on my first few outings, I was impressed with how well the R7 worked. The riding position felt a bit high at first, but within a few laps it felt spot-on. I was able to tuck in behind the windscreen and still crawl around the cockpit easily. The R6-like front-end was excellent when entering the corners, and the chassis held steady with only a slight pitching out of the rear wheel on entry. I bottomed out a few times hitting some serious bumps, but the R7’s KTB fork took the beating in stride. That split-second thought of “Oh no!” was replaced with a “Wow, this thing is very forgiving.” Fast or slow it felt solid with exceptional feel, and the slipper clutch proved invaluable when down shifting at speed.
The 2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 has an aggressive riding position that isn’t too extreme.
The new Brembo radial front master cylinder combined with Advics radial-mount 4-piston calipers and 298mm rotors allowed for some serious braking force. Out back, a Brembo master cylinder controls a Nissin caliper and a 245mm rotor. Too bad the ABS cannot be turned off. Even though ABS interference was minimal, under extreme braking I encountered more of a freewheeling sensation than I’d prefer. When I did overcook a corner, the user-friendly nature of the R7 allowed me to reel it back in.
The 2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 proved to be very resilient and user-friendly on the track. Only at race pace did it start to reveal limitations.
In terms of steering, I thought the narrow position of the clip-ons might be a issue with leverage, but I was wrong. The R7 turns on dime and was effortless to maneuver in slow and fast sections of the track. Every time I pushed, it reacted like a proper sportbike. Transitioning back and forth at speed was relatively easy as the narrow chassis responds very well to input with minimal force. There are limitations, however. Even with the beefed-up chassis, the R7 felt challenged at race pace. The frame started to twist up when leaned over hard on the gas through long corners, resulting in a slight decrease in stability. The front-end started to chatter a bit off throttle mid-corner as the pace increased.
Atlanta Motorsports Park was a great track for giving the 2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 a proper shakedown.
Still, none of this hampered the fun and the R7 always felt predictable. The 689cc CP2 twin was a blast on the track. I wrung its neck all day and never felt worn out. Throttle response was smooth and efficient, so I never had to worry about upsetting the chassis. The initial hit down low is good with some usable torque, but it flattens out at the upper end of the rev range. Just grab a gear via the quickshifter and you’ll have plenty more to play with.
A new LCD high-contrast instrument panel provides all the pertinent info, and the bar-graph tachometer and gear indicator, which I watch most, are easy to read. What I loved about the dash and switchgear was the lack of details and buttons for electronic riding aids. No need to fuss about which button does what. Just get on with it, and that’s exactly what we did all day long.
The 2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 offers a lot of performance for a reasonable price.
The 2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 is a supersport bike for the masses. More performance than an R3, but more accessible than an R1 on all fronts. The R7 could be the perfect bike for someone who wants to sharpen their skills on back roads or try their hand at club racing. Less money spent on the bike means more money available for tires — and a sticky set will last a lot longer! Yamaha has done a fine job producing a motorcycle that’s the perfect blend of accessibility and capability.
Your choice: Team Yamaha Blue or Performance Black.
2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 Specs
Base Price: $8,999 Price as Tested: $9,199 (quickshifter) Website:yamahamotorsports.com Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, transverse parallel-twin, DOHC w/ 4 valves per cyl. Displacement: 689cc Bore x Stroke: 80.0 x 68.6mm Transmission: 6-speed, cable-actuated assist-and-slipper wet clutch Final Drive: O-ring chain Wheelbase: 54.9 in. Rake/Trail: 23.4 degrees/3.5 in. Seat Height: 32.9 in. Wet Weight: 414 lbs. (claimed) Fuel Capacity: 3.4 gals.
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