Joining Yamaha’s Hyper Naked lineup for 2020 is the new MT-03, a naked version of its YZF-R3 sportbike.
Yamaha’s MT line of naked sportbikes—the MT-07, MT-09 and MT-10—have earned heaps of praise from Rider staffers since the MT-09 (formerly FZ-09) debuted for 2014. MT stands for “Master of Torque,” and with all three models powered by feisty engines with crossplane-style crankshafts, they live up to the name.
Light, compact and affordable, the 2020 Yamaha MT-03 is an ideal choice for newer, younger and smaller riders.
For 2020, Yamaha is adding a new model to its Hyper Naked family, the MT-03. Although it has the same aggressive, mass-forward styling as the larger MTs, the MT-03 does not have a crossplane-style crankshaft. Essentially a naked version of the YZF-R3 sportbike, the MT-03 is powered by the same smooth, counterbalanced, liquid-cooled 321cc parallel twin with a 180-degree firing order, whereas the MT-07’s parallel twin has an uneven 270-degree firing order that gives it a scrappy character.
The 2020 Yamaha MT-03’s LED position lights sit above a central LED headlight.
Inside the MT-03’s engine cases are carburized connecting
rods, lightweight, heat-resistant forged pistons and all-aluminum DiASil
cylinders that provide excellent heat dissipation. The fuel-injected, DOHC,
4-valves-per-cylinder engine has a 11.2:1 compression ratio, a 6-speed
transmission with a wet clutch and chain final drive.
The MT-03’s most distinctive feature is its position lights, a pair of thin, angled LED “eyebrows” where headlights would normally be. Instead, the main headlight is an inconspicuous round LED tucked into the center of the small front cowl. Further adding to the minimalist design are thin LED turn signals.
The 2020 Yamaha MT-03 has an all-digital instrument display which looks just like the one on the R3. If they are the same, then it features a bar tachometer, gear indicator, speedometer, engine temperature, fuel level, clock and switchable odometer, two tripmeters, oil tripmeter, fuel reserve tripmeter and average/instant fuel economy.
Connected to the diamond-type tubular-steel frame are a non-adjustable KYB 37mm upside-down fork and a long swingarm with a preload-adjustable Monocross rear shock. There’s 5.1/4.9 inches of front/rear suspension travel, and steering geometry is sporty with 25 degrees of rake and 3.7 inches of trail. Rolling on 17-inch wheels, the MT-03 has a single disc brake front and rear, and ABS is standard. Said to weigh just 373 pounds with its 3.7-gallon tank full, the compact bike has a 54.3-inch wheelbase and a 30.7-inch seat height.
2020 Yamaha MT-03 in Matte Raven Black
The 2020 Yamaha MT-03 will be available in Ice Fluo and
Matte Raven Black for $4,599 starting in February 2020.
For 2020, Honda has updated its Africa Twin platform–now designated CRF1100L–with a larger, more powerful engine, new electronics and more.
Back in 2016 Honda launched a reboot of the Africa Twin, a
legendary, ’80s-era, Dakar-inspired dual-sport that never made it to the U.S. Sharing
the “CRF” model designation with Honda’s line of off-road bikes made it clear
that the all-new CRF1000L Africa Twin was designed to be just as capable off
the pavement as on it.
2020 Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin in Matte Black Metallic
Powered by a snappy 998cc parallel twin, the Africa Twin shared
DNA with Honda’s Dakar competition bike, the CRF450R Rally, with a semi-double
cradle frame, 21-inch front/18-inch rear spoked wheels with tube-type tires, extra-long
suspension travel (9.1 inches front, 8.7 inches rear) and nearly 10 inches of
ground clearance. It was offered as a standard model with a 6-speed manual
transmission with an assist-and-slipper clutch, or as a DCT model with Honda’s
Dual Clutch Transmission with automatic and manual modes.
The 2020 Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES with factory accessories including aluminum luggage, engine protection bars and more.
For 2018, Honda introduced a more touring oriented version
called the Africa Twin Adventure Sports, which benefited from engine updates, a
lightweight lithium-ion battery, throttle-by-wire with riding modes, an extra
inch of suspension travel, a 1.4-gallon larger fuel tank (6.4 gallons), a taller
windscreen, a taller handlebar and other cosmetic, ergonomic and functional
changes.
There’s been buzz for a while now something new coming down
the pike, and today Honda announced the new 2020 CRF1100L Africa Twin and
CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES. Both get a larger, more powerful
engine, a more advanced suite of electronic rider aids and other updates. The
standard Africa Twin is geared more toward off-road performance, while the
Adventure Sports ES is designed to deliver more comfort and confidence for
long-distance touring.
With an 86cc bump in displacement and intake and exhaust updates, the parallel twin that powers the CRF1100L Africa Twin is said to be 6% more powerful than its predecessor.
The liquid-cooled, DOHC parallel twin powering both Africa
Twin models gets an 86cc bump in displacement, to 1,084cc, which, along with along
with improved intake and exhaust systems, results in a claimed 6% increase in horsepower.
The frame has been updated for optimized handling, the rear subframe is now made
of aluminum construction and is detachable, and the CRF450R-style aluminum swingarm
is lighter and more rigid.
Both 2020 Africa Twins get a six-axis IMU, new rider aids, a full-color TFT touchscreen display and standard cruise control.
A six-axis inertial measurement unit (IMU) enables new rider
aids including wheelie control, cornering ABS, rear-lift control, DCT cornering
detection and cornering lights. A new 6.5-inch TFT color touchscreen display is
compatible with Apple CarPlay, and cruise control is standard on both models.
2020 Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin
2020 Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin in Matte Black Metallic
The 2020 Honda Africa Twin features a shorter, fixed
windscreen and a 5-gallon fuel tank. It will be available in March 2020 in
Matte Black Metallic for $14,399 with a 6-speed transmission or $15,199 with
DCT.
2020 Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES
2020 Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES in Pearl Glare White/Blue
The 2020 Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES features new Showa
Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment suspension (EERA), tubeless wheels,
heated grips, an accessory socket, a larger skid plate, an aluminum rear rack
and a 6.5-gallon tank. It will be available in March 2020 in Pricing Pearl
Glare White/Blue for $17,199 with a 6-speed transmission or $17,999 with DCT.
Tubeless wheels on the 2020 Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES responds to a common complaint about the standard Africa Twin. Many touring riders appreciate the convenience of quick roadside flat repairs.
Last week Indian unveiled the limited-edition Scout 100th Anniversary and new Scout Bobber Twenty as part of its mid-sized Scout cruiser lineup for 2020.
Indian’s big bikes take center stage this week, with the
introduction of a larger Thunder Stroke 116 V-twin on select models, a new
Roadmaster Dark Horse, a redesigned Springfield Dark Horse and other
enhancements to the lineup.
“These new features and upgrades are a result of our
consistent communication with riders, listening to their feedback and
incorporating it into our ongoing product development efforts,” said Reid
Wilson, Vice President for Indian Motorcycle. “Today’s rider wants more power
and expects cutting-edge technology. That’s exactly what we’re delivering in
2020.”
For the first time in the company’s history, Indian
Motorcycle will offer a 116 cubic-inch Thunder Stroke engine in select models.
Straight from the factory, the new 116ci air-cooled V-twin features a new
high-flow cylinder head that delivers a claimed 126 lb-ft of torque. The
Thunder Stroke 116 is now standard on the Springfield Dark Horse, Chieftain,
Chieftain Dark Horse, Chieftain Limited, Chieftain Elite, Roadmaster and
Roadmaster Dark Horse.
The Chief Dark Horse, Chief Vintage, Chieftain Classic and Springfield
are powered by the standard Thunder Stroke 111.
Ride Command with Connected Services
Indian Ride Command
For 2020, Indian Motorcycle introduces updates to its Ride
Command system with Connected Services, a completely redesigned version of its
infotainment system. Still featuring a 7-inch screen with glove-touch
technology, Ride Command now features a new quad-core processor to provide the
fastest infotainment experience available. New connected features include traffic
and weather overlays, so riders can plan their ride to avoid traffic and poor
weather conditions, as well as intuitive destination search capabilities and
improved customizable ride screens.
2020 Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse
2020 Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse
Drawing inspiration from the Chieftain Dark Horse, the
Roadmaster Dark Horse brings a modern and aggressive attitude to Indian’s
luxury touring motorcycle. With blacked-out finishes and just enough chrome to
stand out from the 2020 lineup, the Roadmaster Dark Horse features a
streamlined fairing, slammed saddlebags, a 19-inch front wheel with an open
fender, an extended-reach rogue gunfighter seat, a blacked-out engine and matte
paint color schemes. It’s powered by the new Thunder Stroke 116, and premium
touring amenities include a touring trunk, fairing lowers, heated grips and a
mid-adjustable windscreen.
Pricing for the 2020 Roadmaster Dark Horse starts at $28,999, and it will be available in Thunder Black Smoke, White Smoke and Ruby Smoke (shown).
2020 Indian Springfield Dark Horse
2020 Indian Springfield Dark Horse
Following positive rider feedback from the 2020 Jack
Daniel’s Limited Edition Indian Springfield Dark Horse that was launched at
Daytona Bike Week, Indian is now offering a similar design package for the 2020
Springfield Dark Horse. While the Thunder Stroke 116 delivers unrivaled power,
the bike gains an enormous level of attitude with slammed saddlebags, a rogue
seat, 12-inch mini apes and premium blacked-out finishes.
Pricing for the 2020 Springfield Dark Horse starts at $22,499, and it will be available in Thunder Black Smoke (shown), Sagebrush Smoke and White Smoke.
2020 Indian Chieftain Elite
2020 Indian Chieftain Elite
As it has with previous iterations, the Chieftain Elite is
an ultra-premium bagger that combines style, technology and performance. The
2020 Chieftain Elite gets the Thunder Stroke 116 and the PowerBand Audio Plus
system with integrated fairing and saddlebag speakers. The 2020 Chieftain
Elite’s premium styling includes a two-tone Thunder Black Vivid Crystal over
Wildfire Candy paint with matching motor highlights and badging, precision
machined elite wheels, pinnacle mirrors, select rider floorboards and a flare
windshield.
Pricing for the 2020 Chieftain Elite starts at $34,999, and
it will be available in Thunder Black Vivid Crystal over Wildfire Red Candy.
Other 2020 Updates & Pricing
Furthermore, the 2020 Thunder Stroke lineup features additional updates. The Chief Dark Horse and Chief Vintage will now share the same chassis as the Springfield and Springfield Dark Horse, delivering improved handling and adjustable rear suspension. The Springfield and Chief Dark Horse will come standard with a 17-inch front wheel for improved stability. And the 2020 Roadmaster receives a lighter weight and redesigned trunk rack for added style.
Pricing and color options for other 2020 Thunder Stroke
models are as follows:
Chief Dark Horse, starting at $18,499: Thunder Black Smoke
Chief Vintage, starting at $19,999: Thunder Black; Willow Green over Ivory Cream
Springfield, starting at $20,999: Thunder Black; Burgundy Metallic over Titanium Metallic
Chieftain, starting at $21,999: Thunder Black; Titanium Smoke
Chieftain Classic, starting at $25,499: Thunder Black; Deepwater Metallic over Dirt Track Tan
Chieftain Dark Horse, starting at $27,999: Thunder Black Smoke; Ruby Smoke; Titanium Smoke
Chieftain Limited, starting at $27,999: Thunder Black Pearl; Radar Blue; Thunder Black Pearl with graphics package
Roadmaster, starting at $29,999: Thunder Black; Burgundy Metallic; Pearl White over Titanium Metallic with black pinstripe; Titanium Smoke over Thunder Black Smoke with silver pinstripe
Indian clearly wants to emphasize the new floating solo saddles on its limited-edition Scout 100th Anniversary (left) and new Scout Bobber Twenty (right) models, which join the Scout, Scout Bobber and Scout Sixty in Indian’s 2020 lineup.
The legendary Scout, which rivaled the Chief as Indian’s most important model, was introduced for the 1920 model year. The original Scout was powered by a 600cc (37ci) side-valve 42-degree V-twin good for about 10 horsepower. And before the Roaring Twenties were over, the 101 Scout, a longer, lower version with a 22-horsepower V-twin that became popular among racers for its speed and handling, rolled off the assembly line in Springfield, Massachusetts.
In honor of the Scout’s 100th anniversary, for 2020 Indian
is adding two new Scout models to its lineup—the limited-edition Scout 100th
Anniversary (only 750 will be made) and the Scout Bobber Twenty.
Returning for 2020 are the Scout, Scout Sixty and Scout Bobber, all of which get new floating rotors, calipers and master cylinders for improved braking performance. The 2020 Scout gets a two-up Sport Seat and passenger pegs, and Scout Bobbers roll on new Pirelli MT60RS tires.
New Quick Release Fairing for Indian Scout
Indian has also added new Scout accessories to its catalog,
including a color-matched Quick Release Fairing with a 2-inch windscreen, weather
resistant Semi-Rigid Quick Release Saddlebags, a Stage 1 Shorty Slip-on Muffler
Kit and an all-new 2-into-1 Full Exhaust System.
2020 Indian Scout 100th Anniversary
2020 Indian Scout 100th Anniversary
Taking styling cues from the original Scout, the special anniversary edition is painted Indian Motorcycle Red with Anniversary Gold trim and includes a color-matched Scout 100th Anniversary badge. Finishing touches include a Desert Tan genuine leather floating solo saddle, black wire wheels with gold pinstripes, beach bars, a luggage rack and extra chrome detailing.
Like all Scouts except the Sixty, the 100th Anniversary model is powered by a liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valves-per-cylinder, 1,133cc (69ci) 60-degree V-twin rated at 100 horsepower, with a 6-speed transmission. Only 750 units will be built, and pricing starts at $15,999 and includes ABS.
2020 Indian Scout Bobber Twenty
2020 Indian Scout Bobber Twenty
The new Scout Bobber Twenty has old-school bobber styling with what Indian says are improved ergonomics. It has wire wheels, a floating solo saddle, a mix of chrome and blacked-out finishes and 10-inch ape hanger handlebars. Available in three colors—Thunder Black, Sagebrush Smoke and Burnished Metallic—pricing starts at $11,999 for non-ABS (Thunder Black only) and $12,899 for ABS.
2020 Indian Scout
2020 Indian Scout
The 2020 base-model Scout features upgraded brakes as well as a two-up Sport Seat and passenger pegs. Available in multiple color options—Thunder Black, White Smoke, Deepwater Metallic, Metallic Jade over Thunder Black and Indian Motorcycle Red over Ivory Cream with Gold Pinstripe—pricing starts at $11,499 for non-ABS (Thunder Black only) and $12,399 for ABS.
The 2020 Scout Bobber features upgraded brakes as well as new
Pirelli MT60RS tires. Available in Thunder Black, Thunder Black Smoke,
Deepwater Metallic, Bronze Smoke and White Smoke, pricing starts at $10,999 for
non-ABS (Thunder Black only) and $11,899 for ABS.
The 2020 Scout Sixty features upgraded brakes. It’s powered
by a liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valves-per-cylinder, 999cc (60ci) 60-degree V-twin
rated at 78 horsepower, with a 5-speed transmission. Available in Thunder
Black, Burgundy Metallic and Pearl White over Titanium Metallic, pricing starts
at $8,999 for ABS (Thunder Black only) and $9,799 for ABS.
Suzuki has announced new and returning models for its 2020 motorcycle lineup. New models include the modern interpretation of the iconic Katana sportbike, which we test rode in Japan and reviewed last spring, and the V-Strom 650XT Adventure.
All other returning models for 2020 are unchanged except for colors and pricing.
Based on the GSX-S1000 naked sportbike and powered by a liquid-cooled,
DOHC, 999cc in-line four that’s a modified, street-tuned version of the
GSX-R1000 K5 (2005-2008) engine, making 147 horsepower at 10,000 rpm and 80
lb-ft of torque at 9,500 rpm (claimed), the new Katana is based on the Katana
3.0 Concept created by Italian designer Rodolfo Frascoli.
Read about the history of the original, Hans Muth-designed 1981 GSX1100S Katana and the evolution of the new model in our First Ride Review. The 2020 Suzuki Katana will be available in Metallic Mystic Silver or Solid Black. Pricing starts at is $13,499 and it will be in dealerships in November.
2020 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT Adventure
2020 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT Adventure
Replacing the V-Strom 650XT Touring for 2020 is the V-Strom 650XT Adventure, which is equipped with tubeless spoked wheels, aluminum panniers, an accessory bar, a handlebar cross-brace, mirror extensions and a centerstand. Powered by a 645cc 90-degree V-twin, it is mechanically unchanged from the 2018 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT we last tested.
The 2020 Suzuki V-Strom XT Adventure will be available in
Pearl Vigor Blue and base MSRP is $10,399.
The rest are returning models….
2020 Suzuki Burgman 200
2020 Suzuki Burgman 200
For 2020, the Suzuki Burgman 200 scooter is available in
Pearl Brilliant White and base MSRP is $4,999.
2020 Suzuki Boulevard C50
2020 Suzuki Boulevard C50
For 2020, the Suzuki Boulevard C50 cruiser is available in
Candy Daring Red or Glass Sparkle Black and base MSRP is $8,299.
2020 Suzuki Boulevard C50T
2020 Suzuki Boulevard C50T
For 2020, the Suzuki Boulevard C50T touring cruiser is
available in Metallic Oort Gray No. 3 and base MSRP is $9,599.
2020 Suzuki Boulevard M109R B.O.S.S.
2020 Suzuki Boulevard M109R B.O.S.S.
For 2020, the Suzuki Boulevard M109R B.O.S.S. muscle cruiser
is available in Pearl Glacier White/Glass Sparkle Black or Metallic Oort
Gray/Glass Sparkle Black and base MSRP is $15,199.
2020 Suzuki DR-Z400S
2020 Suzuki DR-Z400S
For 2020, the Suzuki DR-Z400S dual-sport is available in Solid
Black and base MSRP is $6,799.
2020 Suzuki DR-Z400SM
2020 Suzuki DR-Z400SM
For 2020, the Suzuki DR-Z400SM supermoto is available in Solid
Iron Gray or Solid Special White No. 2 and base MSRP is $7,399.
2020 Suzuki DR200S
2020 Suzuki DR200S
For 2020, the Suzuki DR200S dual-sport is available in Solid
Iron Gray and base MSRP is $4,649.
2020 Suzuki GSX-R600
2020 Suzuki GSX-R600
For 2020, the Suzuki GSX-R600 sportbike is available in Pearl
Glacier White or Glass Sparkle Black and base MSRP is $11,399.
2020 Suzuki GSX-R750
2020 Suzuki GSX-R750
For 2020, the Suzuki GSX-R750 sportbike is available in Pearl
Glacier White/Glass Sparkle Black or Metallic Mat Black No. 2/Glass Sparkle
Black and base MSRP is $12,499.
2020 Suzuki GSX-R1000
2020 Suzuki GSX-R1000
For 2020, the Suzuki GSX-R1000 sportbike is available in Metallic
Mat Black No. 2/Glass Sparkle Black or Pearl Glacier White/Glass Sparkle Black and
MSRP is $15,599.
For 2020, the Suzuki GSX-R1000R track-ready sportbike is
available in Metallic Triton Blue or Glass Sparkle Black/Pearl Mira Red and base
MSRP is $17,699.
2020 Suzuki GSX-S750
2020 Suzuki GSX-S750
For 2020, the Suzuki GSX-S750 naked sportbike is available
in Metallic Mat Black No. 2 and base MSRP is $8,499.
For 2020, the Suzuki GSX-S750Z ABS naked sportbike is
available in Pearl Glacier White/Glass Sparkle Black with red accents and
wheels and base MSRP is $8,899.
2020 Suzuki GSX250R
2020 Suzuki GSX250R
For 2020, the Suzuki GSX250R entry-level sportbike is
available in Metallic Diamond Red or Pearl Glacier White/Pearl Nebular Black
and base MSRP is $4,599.
2020 Suzuki GSX250R ABS
2020 Suzuki GSX250R ABS
For 2020, the Suzuki GSX250R ABS entry-level sportbike is
available in Metallic Crystal Blue/Pearl Nebular Black and base MSRP is $4,899.
2020 Suzuki Hayabusa
2020 Suzuki Hayabusa
For 2020, the Suzuki GSX1300R Hayabusa sportbike is available in Candy Daring Red or Metallic Thunder Gray and base MSRP is $14,799.
2020 Suzuki SV650
2020 Suzuki SV650
For 2020, the Suzuki SV650 standard is available in Metallic
Mystic Silver with blue frame and wheels and base MSRP is $7,099.
The new Triumph Daytona Moto2 765 Limited Edition is the first-ever official Moto2 Dorna Sports-licensed motorcycle. (Photos courtesy of Triumph)
Last month, we posted a sneak peek of the new Triumph Daytona Moto2 765 Limited Edition, an all-new sportbike from the British manufacturer that serves as the exclusive engine supplier to the FIM Moto2 World Championship. The new Daytona was officially unveiled at the GoPro British Grand Prix at the Silverstone circuit in England.
Gripping those fetching Öhlins NIX30 fork tubes is a billet aluminum top yoke with a laser-etched limited-edition badge.
With a limited production run of 765 units for the U.S. and Canada, and another 765 for the rest of the world—each individually numbered with a laser-etched badge on the machined-from-billet aluminum top yoke—the Daytona Moto2 765 Limited Edition will be powered by a Moto2-derived 765cc in-line triple with an Arrow titanium race-style exhaust that makes a claimed 128 horsepower at 12,250 rpm and 59 lb-ft of torque at 9,750 rpm, with a 13,250 rpm redline.
Behind the full carbon fiber bodywork is a Moto2-derived 765cc triple good for 128 horsepower and 59 lb-ft of torque at the crank.
Based on the Street Triple RS engine, the Daytona version features components and performance upgrades derived from the Moto2 engine development program, including titanium inlet valves, stronger pistons and MotoGP-spec DLC-coated wrist pins; new cam profiles and intake trumpets; modified con rods, intake port, crank and barrels; and a higher compression ratio (12.9:1). Equipped with throttle-by-wire, the Daytona offers five riding modes (Rain, Road, Rider Configurable, Sport and Track), all of which adjust the throttle map, traction control and ABS settings. The 6-speed transmission has track-optimized gear ratios and an up/down quickshifter.
This Triumph gets the goodies, including Öhlins suspension, Brembo brakes with Stylema front calipers and lightweight wheels with Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP track-ready tires.
The new Daytona shares the same cast-aluminum frame and swingarm as the Moto2 engine development prototype and the British Superbike Championship-winning, multi-time Isle of Man TT Supersport race-winning Daytona R. Of course, components attached to the chassis are top-of-the-line, including Brembo Stylema monoblock front calipers, a Brembo rear caliper, fully adjustable Öhlins suspension (a 43mm NIX30 USD fork and TTX36 rear shock) and lightweight cast aluminum wheels shod with Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP go-fast tires.
Arrow titanium race-style exhaust, chassis from the championship-winning Daytona R, premium components, carbon fiber everywhere. Premi-YUM!
In the cockpit
there’s a full-color TFT display with a Moto2 Triumph co-branded start-up
graphic and lap timer. The new Daytona also has multifunction ergonomically
optimized switch cubes with five-way joystick control. On the outside is
lightweight carbon fiber bodywork, including a single-piece cockpit, full
fairing, tail section, front and rear fenders, upper chain guard and race-spec
lower chain guard. Inspired by the Union Jack livery of the Moto2 engine
development bike, the Daytona features official Moto2 branding and a unique
paint scheme in Carbon Black, Graphite Grey and Aluminum Silver, punctuated
with an exposed carbon fiber effect.
Full-color TFT display looks similar to what’s used on many of Triumph’s recent, high-end models.
The Triumph Daytona Moto2 765 Limited Edition will be available in March 2020. Pricing is TBD.
New or updated Harley-Davidson models for 2020 include the LiveWire electric bike (above), Low Rider S, Road Glide Limited, a restyled Heritage Classic and three CVO models. (Photos courtesy of Harley-Davidson)
The biggest news to come out of Milwaukee for the 2020 model year is the all-new LiveWire electric motorcycle, which we’ve already ridden and reviewed. Harley-Davidson has announced the wider availability of technological features that debuted on the LiveWire, as well as several new or updated models, including the Low Rider S, Road Glide Limited, Heritage Classic and three CVO models.
H-D Connect
H-D Connect sends vehicle information and security alerts to your smartphone through the Harley-Davidson app.
First seen on the LiveWire, H-D Connect is a subscription-based
cellular service that allows riders to connect with their motorcycle using
their smartphone and the Harley-Davidson app. H-D Connect provides key vehicle information
(e.g., battery voltage, fuel level, available range, riding statistics and
more) as well as remote security monitoring, including tamper alerts and stolen
vehicle assistance. H-D Connect is a standard feature on 2020 Touring (except
Road King/S and Electra Glide Standard models), Tri Glide Ultra, CVO models and
LiveWire, and it includes free service for one year.
Reflex Defensive Rider Systems (RDRS)
Also seen on the LiveWire, Reflex Defensive Rider Systems (RDRS) is a suite of electronic riding assistance features, including cornering enhanced linked braking, ABS, traction control and drag-torque slip control; hill hold control; and tire-pressure monitoring. All RDRS features are standard on CVO models (though on the CVO Tri Glide, nothing is “cornering enhanced”), and they are available as options on all Touring models except the Electra Glide Standard.
2020 Harley-Davidson Low Rider S
2020 Harley-Davidson Low Rider S
Chopper-style Low Rider models have been in Harley-Davidson’s lineup almost continuously since 1977. When Dyna models were rolled into the Softail family for 2018, the Low Rider got a new chassis and a Milwaukee-Eight 107ci V-twin. The last Low Rider S model, which we reviewed in 2016, was built around a 110-cubic-inch Screamin’ Eagle Twin Cam V-twin. For 2020, the Softail-based Low Rider S flexes its muscles with a Milwaukee-Eight 114 that churns out 119 lb-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm (claimed).
2020 Harley-Davidson Low Rider S
Radiate cast wheels (19-inch front, 16-inch rear) finished in Matte Dark Bronze, a 1-inch-diameter motocross-style handlebar on 4-inch straight risers, a color-matched mini-fairing, a high-back solo seat and black finishes on the powertrain and mufflers add plenty of attitude.
The Low Rider S also gets premium suspension components (including a 43mm USD fork) and triple-disc brakes with standard ABS. It’s available in Vivid Black and Barracuda Silver (shown above), and pricing starts at $17,999.
2020 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Limited
2020 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Limited
Replacing the Road Glide Ultra model for 2020 is the new Road Glide Limited, which offers premium luxury-touring features, including painted pin striping, a gloss-finish inner fairing, heated grips, Slicer II Contrast Bright wheels and new tank, front and rear fender medallions. The Road Glide’s distinctive shark-nose fairing has triple split stream vents that improve airflow and reduce buffeting.
The Road Glide Limited is powered by the Twin-Cooled Milwaukee-Eight
114, and features premium suspension, Reflex linked Brembo brakes with ABS, a Boom!
Box GTS infotainment system with color touchscreen, H-D Connect and dual
Daymaker LED headlamps.
2020 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Limited
A new Black Finish Option (shown in the photos above), which is also available for the 2020 Ultra Limited, includes Slicer II cast wheels finished in Gloss Black; fuel tank, front and rear fender medallions with a Gloss Black fill surrounded by a Charcoal border; Gloss Black powdercoat powertrain, covers and exhaust; black Tour-Pak luggage carrier hinges, latches and rack, console, footboards, handlebar, gauge trim rings, hand control levers, mirrors and foot controls; black LED Daymaker headlamp, trim ring and LED fog lamps (Ultra Limited only); and black fork lowers, fork covers, engine guard and saddlebag guards.
Pricing for the 2020 Road Glide Limited starts at $28,299.
2020 Harley-Davidson Heritage Classic
2020 Harley-Davidson Heritage Classic
The Softail-chassis Heritage Classic has been re-styled for 2020, swapping the previous model’s blacked-out look for a generous helping of chrome. (The Heritage Classic 114 model powered by the Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine will retain the model’s original, blacked-out look.) The updated Heritage Classic has a bright powertrain with chrome air cleaner and covers; chrome steel laced wheels; chrome headlamp bucket and auxiliary light buckets, bright fork legs and chrome fork covers and nacelle; chrome rear fender struts and side covers; a chrome console; a polished stainless steel handlebar with a chrome riser and top clamp; and a full clear windscreen with chrome support hardware.
The Heritage Classic is powered by the Milwaukee-Eight 107 V-twin and is mechanically identical to the 2019 model. This touring-ready Softail features lockable hard saddlebags, a detachable windscreen, a two-piece skirted seat and pillion with black studs, and standard cruise control and ABS. Color options include: Vivid Black, Billiard Burgundy, two-tone Silver Pine/Spruce and Billiard Red/Vivid Black. Pricing starts at $18,999.
2020 Harley-Davidson CVO Street Glide
2020 Harley-Davidson CVO Street Glide
Returning for 2020 with a new look and new premium features, the CVO Street Glide is one of Harley-Davidson’s most popular limited-edition Custom Vehicle Operations models. Powered by the Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-Twin with red rocker covers, it gets premium custom paint, premium Talon wheels, custom controls and an all-new BOOM! Box GTS infotainment system with three separate amplifiers, 75 watts per channel and 900 watts of audio performance. It also includes the Reflex Defensive Rider Systems (RDRS), smartphone-linked H-D Connect and a wireless Bluetooth headset interface.
Pricing for the 2020 CVO Street Glide starts at $40,539.
2020 Harley-Davidson CVO Limited
2020 Harley-Davidson CVO Limited
For the ultimate in two-up V-twin touring, the 2020 CVO Limited offers the rider and passenger plenty of comfort, luggage capacity, style and performance. Its Twin-Cooled Milwaukee-Eight 117 grunts out 125 lb-ft of torque. Premium suspension, premium paint and finishes, premium audio, RDRS, H-D Connect, wireless Bluetooth—the CVO Limited gets it all.
Pricing for the 2020 CVO Limited starts at $44,039.
2020 Harley-Davidson CVO Tri Glide
2020 Harley-Davidson CVO Tri Glide
Said to be the most-requested CVO model, a new addition to
the lineup for 2020 is the CVO Tri Glide, the ultimate Milwaukee-built trike.
Like its Custom Vehicle Operations stable mates, the CVO Tri Glide gets big
power from a Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-twin, big sound from the BOOM! Box GTS
infotainment system and big style courtesy of premium paint and finishes and
the Kahuna collection of grips, levers, pegs and floorboards, and Tomahawk
contrast-cut wheels. RDRS, H-D Connect, wireless Bluetooth, Daymaker LED
headlamps and the choice of two custom paint finishes round out the wish list.
Pricing for the 2020 CVO Tri Glide starts at $48,999.
It’s seldom (if ever) easy to pick a Motorcycle of the Year…not that anyone ever feels sorry for us and our “but we had to ride so many motorcycles” tale of woe. For example, we took our initial ride on the first of this model year’s crop of Contenders, the Yamaha Niken, way back in May of 2018. We can’t even remember what we had for dinner last Tuesday, but fortunately Yamaha jogged our memories of the bike by unveiling the tour-ready GT version of its three-wheeled LMW (Leaning Multi-Wheel) in April 2019.
In the interim, Royal Enfield released a pair of highly anticipated 650 twins, designed, tested and engineered at its brand-spanking-new R&D facility in England and built at one of its sprawling factories in India. Triumph showed off its truly off-road capable yet still pleasantly retro Scrambler 1200 XC and XE. Harley-Davidson, meanwhile, was creating a lot of very different noise with its LiveWire electric motorcycle, but as a 2020 model it’s not eligible for this year’s award. The rightful successor to the dearly departed V-Rod, the dragbike-inspired FXDR 114, is a 2019 contender though. At the decidedly non-dragbike-inspired end of the motorcycle spectrum, Honda, which celebrates its 60th anniversary in the U.S. this year, brought us two absolutely adorable throwback models designed to both tug at Boomer heartstrings and appeal to vintage-loving Millennials, the Monkey and the Super Cub. Indian tapped into another vein of nostalgia and good ol’ Americana with its FTR 1200 S flat-track replica, one of the best-performing American bikes we’ve ridden in a while. Meanwhile BMW managed to improve once again on its bestseller by introducing the R 1250 GS, and Suzuki did the same with its venerable V-Strom 650 XT Touring.
So no, it’s never easy. That said, one machine stood out above the rest as our pick for the 2019 Motorcycle of the Year, and not just because it’s capable of scrabbling to the top of a mountain—then carrying you and your stuff comfortably home again. Our choice, as always, goes to a machine that succeeds best at its intent and could be considered a game-changer in its category. We celebrate all new motorcycles, as they each represent the opportunity to get more people on two wheels, experiencing this great adventure we know and love. Congratulations to all the manufacturers, and thank you for keeping our passion alive!
BMW’s big GS
gets ShiftCam variable valve timing that broadens the powerband, increases fuel
efficiency and decreases emissions, a full-color TFT display, updated
electronics and a bump in displacement (and power) from 1,170 to 1,254cc, making what was already arguably one of the
best all-around motorcycles even better.
Harley-Davidson FXDR 114
2019 Harley-Davidson FXDR 114 (Photo by Kevin Wing)
The V-Rod is dead, long live
the V-Rod! Well, sort of. The newest member of the Softail family is a long,
lean power cruiser that channels the spirit of the VRSC V-Rod, with a 114ci
Milwaukee-Eight V-twin, raked-out cartridge-style USD fork, 33 degrees of lean
angle and a 240-section rear tire wrapped around a solid-disc rear wheel.
Honda Super Cub
2019 Honda Super Cub C125 ABS (Photo by Drew Ruiz)
Sixty
years ago, the original Super Cub proved that motorcycles needn’t be feared by
the masses, and this new version continues to make good on that promise, with a
4-speed semi-automatic gearbox, 244-pound wet weight, timeless styling and
modern conveniences like keyless ignition and ABS on the front brake.
The FTR 1200 S is a light, fast, agile street tracker
inspired by Indian’s championship-winning race bike. It’s also a breath of
fresh, young air in the cruiser orthodoxy that’s dominated American-made
motorcycles for decades, and features include a liquid-cooled, DOHC V-twin and
a six-axis IMU-based electronics package.
Royal Enfield 650 Twins
2019 Royal Enfield Continental GT (left) and Interceptor 650 (right)
The Interceptor 650 and Continental GT are completely new,
the first global models for India-based Royal Enfield and the first to be
designed, tested and engineered at its new facility in England. Powered by an
air/oil-cooled 648cc parallel twin, both bikes manage to evoke the simple
pleasure of riding for riding’s sake.
While we haven’t yet ridden
the 2019 version, we’ve spent many thousands of miles aboard Wee Stroms, and
this is the best-equipped one yet. With tubeless spoked wheels, locking side
cases, hand guards, a centerstand, cruise control, ABS, Easy Start and Low RPM
Assist, it’s ready to take on almost any adventure for just $9,999.
Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC/XE
2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE (Photo by Kingdom Creative)
Most modern scramblers talk the talk, but don’t walk the
walk of off-road capability. Enter the Scrambler 1200, a full-on adventure bike
with minimalist, retro styling—and a 21-inch front, nearly 10 inches of Öhlins
suspension travel on the up-spec XE model, multiple riding modes, switchable
ABS and traction control.
They’re a bold, groundbreaking move from Yamaha, and they nearly snagged our top honor. The Niken and Niken GT, based around the Tracer 900—a fantastic bike in its own right—work surprisingly well, with ridiculous front-end grip that must be experienced to be believed and that lovely 847cc in-line triple at their hearts.
And the winner is….
KTM 790 Adventure
2019 KTM 790 Adventure (Photo by Sebas Romero & Marco Campelli)
It’s no secret that adventure
bikes are exploding in popularity, as riders discover the utility and versatility
of their combination of upright seating position, decent ground clearance and
suspension travel, wind protection, the ability to carry luggage and, to
varying degrees, venture off-pavement. ADV bikes have been getting increasingly
bloated, however, bigger, more powerful—and heavier—each model year. Hard-core
ADV-ers have been clamoring for years, begging for a bike that returns
adventure riding to its truly adventurous roots. Something lightweight and
trail-capable, yet with enough elemental protection, power and luggage capacity
to comfortably travel cross-country, and modern fuel injection and electronic
rider aids wouldn’t hurt.
At long last, KTM answered
the call, and what an answer it is. The 790 Adventure and its even more
off-road-oriented R sibling manage to check all the boxes: light weight at a
claimed 417 pounds dry, a state-of-the-art 799cc liquid-cooled, DOHC LC8
parallel twin that produces a claimed 95 horsepower and 65.6 lb-ft of torque
delivered low in the rev range for optimum grunt, and spoked tubeless wheels in
21-inch front/18-inch rear sizes. The standard, more touring-oriented model has
a still-respectable 7.9 inches of travel from its WP Apex suspension and a
fairly accessible, adjustable seat height of 32.7/33.5 inches. Multiple riding
modes (Street, Offroad and Rain) adjust throttle response and lean-angle
sensitive Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC) settings, and power reaches the
rear wheel by way of an assist-and-slipper clutch, a 6-speed transmission and
chain final drive. The more off-road-oriented R model gets a Rally ride mode,
fully adjustable WP Xplor suspension with 9.4 inches of travel and a 34.6-inch
rally-style seat.
2019 KTM 790 Adventure (left and right) and 790 Adventure R (center) (Photo by Sebas Romero & Marco Campelli)
A defining characteristic of
the 790 Adventure is its rally racer-inspired, 5.3-gallon horseshoe-shaped gas
tank, which keeps the bike’s center of gravity low, creates less bulk between
the knees for stand-up riding and makes air filter, battery and fuse access
easy, plus it does double-duty as engine protection in case of a tip-over.
On paper the 790 Adventure is
impressive, and riding it is confirmation; the seat is flat, spacious and
comfortable, the wide handlebar is six-position adjustable and the long-travel
suspension soaks up road irregularities at high and low speeds. Bosch 9.1 MP
cornering ABS backs up powerful brakes and many useful features are standard,
such as an aluminum skid plate, a 12V dash socket and an underseat USB port.
Cruise control, a centerstand, a quickshifter, heated grips and TPMS are
optional.
At long last, the empty slot
between a street-legal enduro and an open-class ADV tourer has been filled, and
that sound you hear is the cheering of all those riders looking for a bike to
rule both mountain and highway.
Congratulations KTM, for the 2019 790 Adventure, Rider’s Motorcycle of the Year!
The Honda CB500X is back with more off-road chops for 2019, including a 19-inch front wheel in place of the old 17. (Photos by Drew Ruiz)
For reasons that remain a mystery, Honda waited until the 2016 model year and the introduction of its very capable CRF1000L Africa Twin to get serious about joining the adventure bike party. Sure, there were short-lived tryouts late in the last century (e.g., the original Africa Twin, Transalps and NX650 models), but these were well ahead of the explosion in ADV-bike understanding and popularity, and the 1998-2013 semi-ADV Varadero was never brought to the U.S.
But just prior to the new Africa Twin, Honda dipped a toe in the ADV pond by calling its ruggedly styled new-for-2013 CB500X an “adventure sport” motorcycle, and despite its 17-inch wheels at both ends and 4.7/5.5-inch suspension travel, quite a few riders took that description at Honda’s word.
Slightly increased suspension travel and a beefier shock in back help allow the CB500X to tackle rougher sections reasonably well.
Subsequently our March 2014 issue tour test to Tombstone, Arizona, included some dirt roads, where the CB500X’s light weight and decent ground clearance helped it do OK (absent deep sand or ruts). The bike’s lower price and seat height has since endeared it to beginning and smaller riders, some of whom want to sample the ADV experience without spending a lot of money—call them the “Adventure Curious.”
The CB500X’s ADV role got a boost when a UK-based outfit called Rally Raid Products created an “adventure kit” for it that includes spoked tubeless wheels with a 19-inch front, longer travel suspension, an ABS cutout switch, taller handlebars and more, and sold lots of them.
For this 5-foot-10-inch rider, standing up requires bent knees to reach the handlebar, which is higher for 2019 but not by much.
Honda has been paying attention to all of this, of course, the result of which is a new 2019 CB500X that incorporates several updates to make it more adventure capable as well as some solid upgrades to its performance and user friendliness. Chief among them is a new 19-inch front wheel that improves bump absorption, front-end feel off-road and high-speed handling, and longer suspension travel (up 0.4-inch front and rear, with an upgraded shock from its larger sportbikes) that reduces bottoming and increases ground clearance.
Unfortunately, seat height is up 0.8-inch as a result, so Honda has narrowed the seat front to make the ground an easier reach–with my 29-inch inseam I can still plant the balls of my feet on the ground. Steering rake and wheelbase are slightly longer for more stability, yet the bike’s turning radius is 8 inches smaller, and new 7-spoke cast wheels are shod with Dunlop Trailmax Mixtour tires that have an aggressive tread pattern and deep grooves.
Stock tires are new Dunlop Trailmax Mixtours, a 90/10 on/off-road radial with aggressive tread for dirt roads and good grip on-road. Jonathan Livingston approves of the bike’s refreshed styling, too.
At 471cc the CB500X twin is in that size and price sweet spot that makes it both a great ride for beginners and a nice first or second bike for commuting and short trips. There’s power aplenty for most riding, with a screaming 8,200-rpm redline and a flat torque curve that makes it very responsive throughout most of the powerband. Grabbing a handful of throttle in top gear on the interstate doesn’t inspire much urge without a downshift, but the bike cruises along nicely at 75 mph with little vibration and (based on our 2013 model test) should get great fuel economy.
Changes to the parallel-twin engine for 2019 (which also apply to the CB500R and CB500F) like a new intake tract design, fuel injectors, valve timing and muffler give it a claimed 3-4 percent more midrange power and a racier exhaust note, and help it meet looming Euro 5 emissions regs. More dogs on the transmission gears improve shifting, and a new assist-and-slipper clutch reduces lever effort by 45 percent, adapts to the load for better hookup under heavy acceleration and reduces engine braking when downshifting.
Updates to the liquid-cooled, 471cc DOHC parallel twin boost midrange power and improve power delivery, and it gets an improved transmission with assist-and-slipper clutch.
Although the Grand Prix Red CB500X can be had with ABS, that’s it for electronic rider aids, and the optional ABS is not switchable (but the fuse box and ABS fuses are readily accessible under the locking seat). For 2019 the bike gets an adjustable brake lever, a revised hydraulic ratio for the rear brake and upgraded ABS modulators that improve braking in low-traction situations (on the ABS version).
In the cockpit there’s a new tapered handlebar for ADV looks that is slightly (0.3 inch) higher and rubber-mounted to minimize vibes; a 0.8-inch taller, two-position windscreen and a new full-featured LCD display with a larger screen and thinner bezel that includes gear and adjustable upshift indicators. The CB500X also looks more adventure-y thanks to a restyled fuel tank, all-LED lighting and a new shroud design that directs radiator heat away from the rider’s legs.
Handlebar and windscreen are both taller for 2019, and the CB500X gets a larger new LCD display.
Besides weight, displacement and cost, the chief difference between the CB500X and its 300- and 650-class ADV bike competitors is probably ergonomic. Those bikes have genuinely sit-up riding positions with tall handlebars and lowish footpegs, and though it’s closer to them now the X still retains some street bike feel, particularly for larger riders.
The bar is taller for 2019 but it’s still low by ADV standards, and the footpegs are a bit high, so it takes more effort to stand up, and standing up off-road creates a long reach to the grips. On the other hand, that wide handlebar and more tucked-in seating position works even better on the pavement now, and the upgrades to steering, suspension and brakes as well as the additional power make the bike serious fun on a twisty road. Wind protection from the taller screen is quite good, and vibration can only be felt in the grips and footpegs at higher rpm.
For the press ride Honda equipped the bikes with Bridgestone Battlax Adventurecross AX41 knobbies, just one of many good ADV tire choices enabled by the larger front wheel.
Honda set up a brilliant ride for the press in the mountains around Julian, California, with a mix of dirt and pavement that showed off the bike’s capabilities very well. Rather than the stock Dunlops, Honda hedged its bets by equipping the bikes with Bridgestone Battlax Adventurecross AX41 tires, an aggressive ADV knobby that works surprisingly well on the street and provided reassuring traction on the dirt bits.
Clutch pull and shifting are indeed butter now, and with the slipper clutch, more linear power delivery and new ABS and brake settings the bike is quite easy to control on loose surfaces and stops hard when needed. Although damping settings are fixed, spring preload is adjustable at both ends, and other than some rear tire chatter when accelerating over washboard the suspension performs quite well for a bike in this price range. It was a warm day yet I didn’t notice any engine heat, and though the new display suffers from glare when the sun is directly behind it is otherwise highly functional.
Revised ergonomics are fine for smaller statured riders off-road, and work especially well on the street.
The accessories list for the CB500X includes heated grips, a centerstand, locking panniers, hand guards, a rear carrier and more, and outfits like Rally Raid will continue to carry ADV upgrades for the new bike as well as for previous model years. At 433 pounds gassed and ready to ride, weight-wise the ABS version is right in between the 300- and 650-class ADV bikes, and the CB500X’s seat is still lower than the 650-and-larger machines, so it’s a good choice for someone who wants interstate touring capability in a smaller, more affordable machine that is also ready for the adventure curious.
Chassis Frame: Diamond-shaped tubular-steel w/ engine as stressed member, box-section steel swingarm Wheelbase: 56.9 in. Rake/Trail: 27.5 degrees/4.3 in. Seat Height: 32.7 in. Suspension, Front: 41mm stanchions, adj. for spring preload, 5.3-in. travel Rear: Pro-Link single shock, adj. for spring preload, 5.9-in. travel Brakes, Front: 320mm disc w/ 2-piston floating caliper & ABS (as tested) Rear: 240mm disc w/ 1-piston floating caliper & ABS (as tested) Wheels, Front: Cast, 2.50 x 19 in. Rear: Cast, 4.50 x 17 in. Tires, Front: 110/80-HR19 Rear: 160/60-HR17 Wet Weight: 433 lbs. (as tested) Load Capacity: 383 lbs. (as tested) GVWR: 816 lbs.
Performance Fuel Capacity: 4.6 gals., last 0.7 gal. warning light on MPG: 87 AKI min. (low/avg/high) NA Estimated Range: NA Indicated RPM at 60 MPH: 4,750
Honda CB500X accessories include a centerstand, locking panniers, hand guards, tank pads, a light bar, tank bag and heated grips.The single 310mm floating front wave rotor and 2-piston caliper provide good stopping power up front.Larger front wheel and additional suspension travel raised seat height, so Honda narrowed it in front to make it easier for those of us shorter of leg to reach the ground.
This handy guide includes all new or significantly updated street-legal motorcycles for the 2020 model year. Organized in alphabetical order by manufacturer, it includes photos and links to details or, when available, first rides and road test reviews about each bike. This guide is updated regularly as more new/updated models are announced, and when we’ve had a chance to ride them and report our impressions.
Receiving updates similar to those that other models in the
R family received for 2019, the BMW R 1250 R roadster gets a larger 1,254cc
boxer twin with ShiftCam variable valve timing and valve stroke and updates to
its electronics package. It also gets a mild style refresh with a TFT display,
a DRL option for the halogen headlight and new color options. Although originally
announced as a 2019 model, the R 1250 R didn’t make it to the U.S. in time. BMW
says it will be available as a 2020 model with an MSRP starting at $14,995.
Receiving updates similar to those that other models in the
R family received for 2019, the BMW R 1250 R roadster gets a larger 1,254cc
boxer twin with ShiftCam variable valve timing and valve stroke and updates to
its electronics package. The RS also gets a style refresh that drops the
asymmetrical, winking look of the S 1000 RR in favor of a sporty twin-LED
headlight assembly, and an LED DRL (daytime running light) is an option.
Although announced as a 2019 model, the R 1250 RS didn’t make it to the U.S. in
time. BMW says it will be available as a 2020 model with an MSRP starting at
$15,695.
More power (205 hp), less weight (434 lbs), updated
technology and a new up-spec Motorsport version. The 2020 BMW S 1000 RR is at
the pointy end of the sportbike spear. Pricing starts at $16,995 and bikes will
be in dealerships in summer 2019.
Harley-Davidson’s new LiveWire electric motorcycle is seriously sporty, shockingly fast and whisper-quiet–everything a typical Harley isn’t. And that’s just the way Milwaukee wants it. It’s propelled by a liquid-cooled electric motor that makes a claimed 105 horsepower and 86 lb-ft of torque, drawing power from a 15.5 kWh battery that offers, according to H-D, a range of 146 miles in the city and 95 miles of combined stop-and-go and highway riding. Single-speed transmission offers twist-and-go convenience, and styling, ergonomics and components are the sportiest offered on any Harley-Davidson. MSRP starts at $29,799.
The 2020 Suzuki Katana features styling cues that pay direct homage to the 1981 original, and it’s built around the potent GSX-S1000 999cc inline-four. It features ABS, traction control, Easy Start and Low RPM Assist, as well as a twin-spar aluminum frame, braced superbike-style swingarm, KYB suspension, dual front Brembo monoblock four-piston calipers, 310mm floating rotors and a model-specific LCD panel. We got a chance to ride the new Katana in Japan last March, but pricing and availability are TBD.
Announced in the fall of 2018, we’re still waiting to see the
new Ténéré 700 (T7, for short) in the flesh–Yamaha says it will be coming to
the U.S. in the second half of 2020 as a 2021 model. We know it will be
powered by the 689cc CP2 parallel twin used in the MT-07, housed in a new
tubular steel double-cradle frame. Other details include a 62.6-inch wheelbase,
9.5 inches of ground clearance, a fully adjustable USD 43mm fork with 8.3
inches of travel and a remote preload-adjustable rear shock with 7.9 inches of
travel.
Yamaha has updated its flagship sportbikes, the YZF-R1 and the track-ready YZF-R1M, for 2020, with both featuring refinements to their CP4 crossplane crankshaft engines, an augmented electronic rider aids package, enhanced suspension and redesigned bodywork. MSRP is $17,300 for the YZF-R1 and $26,099 for the YZF-R1M (the latter is available in limited quantities through Yamaha’s online reservation system).
The first new model from Zero Motorcycles since 2016, the 2020 SR/F’s streetfighter look and steel trellis frame blur the styling lines between gas and electric motorcycles. Powered by a new ZF75-10 IPM (Interior Permanent Magnet) motor and ZF14.4 lithium-ion battery, it delivers a claimed 140 lb-ft of torque and 110 horsepower. It also features Bosch’s Motorcycle Stability Control System and Zero’s new Cypher III operating system. Pricing starts at $18,995.
