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Jan 07
Love1

Aprilia debuts its long-awaited Tuono 660 naked bike for 2021

By General Posts

by Kyle Hyatt from https://www.cnet.com

This promises to be a much more approachable and affordable naked bike from the Italian brand. Enough power, very light weight and top-tier safety tech make the Tuono 660 pretty appealing.

The Aprilia Tuono V4 is one of the most over-the-top, terrifying, wonderful and life-affirming machines I’ve ever had the pleasure of riding. It’s massively powerful, thanks to its 1,077-cc V4 engine, it sounds like half of the world’s angriest Ferrari, and it’s packed to the gunwales with brilliant electronics designed to keep your tires on the pavement. It’s also not a bike I’d recommend to most people as a first, second or even third motorcycle. It’s just overwhelming.

Aprilia seems to understand that issue with its Tuono V4, so it’s done the only sensible thing and lopped two cylinders off it, calling it the Tuono 660 and making it a much more accessible motorcycle. It teased the Tuono 660 alongside the RS 660 sportbike at EICMA in 2019, and now it’s getting its official debut, according to an announcement on Wednesday.

The Tuono 660 makes a reasonable 95 horsepower (the V4, for comparison, produces over 170 hp) and has a curb weight of just 403 pounds. This means that things with the baby Tuono should be plenty rowdy but not quite so hectic as on the V4.

Like its bigger brother, the Tuono 660 sports a more upright riding position than the similarly powered RS 660, which means it should be more comfortable for longer rides. It comes with a KYB suspension with limited adjustment, paired with decently sized, radially mounted Brembo brakes. While miles away from the high-zoot stuff on the more expensive V4, this combination should be more than adequate for some hardcore canyon carving for most riders.

To help make the 660 more friendly for newer riders, it comes standard with Aprilia’s excellent APRC rider-aid suite, which includes multilevel traction control, antiwheelie control, cruise control and user-selectable engine maps. Corner-sensitive, multistage antilock brakes are standard as well.

The 2021 Aprilia Tuono 660 will be available in the US towards the end of Q1 for a starting price of $10,499 before dealer fees. It will be interesting to see how it compares to Ducati’s all-new Monster and KTM’s 790 Duke.

Nov 28
Love1

Players dominating Electric Bike Market

By General Posts

by Joe D’Allegro from https://www.cnbc.com

  • Harley Davidson and Honda are among the dominant motorcycle makers with big plans in electric bikes.
  • Harley also recently announced that it is spinning off a nascent electric bicycle business.
  • Uber is among the top investors in electric scooter company Lime, which just posted its first quarterly profit, while competitor Bird is reportedly planning to soon go public via a SPAC.
  • NIU Technologies, which makes smart scooters, has seen its share price soar.

Tesla reached a $500 billion market valuation this week, a sign of its dominance in the electric vehicle market. But Elon Musk has shown no real interest in one growing EV segment: battery-powered scooters and motorcycles. An accident he suffered as a youth on a motorbike — nearly fatal, Musk has said — turned him off two-wheelers, for now. But the manufacturing of battery powered bikes is growing and consolidating, which means it’s likely to produce one or more dominant players in the years to come.

The electric motorcycle and scooter market reached $30 billion in 2019, according to a June 2020 report by Preeti Wadhwani and Prasenjit Saha from the research company Global Market Insights (GMI). They estimated that the market — which includes everything from large motorcycles meant for interstate cruising to tiny stand-up scooters as used by Lime and Bird — will grow more than 4% annually for the next few years and hit $40 billion in 2026.

Concerns over vehicular emissions, increasing consumer awareness about air pollution, and increasing investments by government authorities in the development of EV charging infrastructure are all expected to keep the market growing. Another factor boosting electric bike prospects is the continued improvement in batteries.

E-bikes, scooters and motorcycles

Electric motorcycles and scooters are still relatively pricey, and none yet matches the range of the best gas bikes, but that’s slowly changing. Lithium ion battery costs are down 85% in the last decade, said Garrett Nelson, senior equity analyst at CFRA Research. Within another 10 years, electric motorcycles can achieve price parity with gas bikes, he predicts.

“The playing field is wide open,” says Nelson. He noted that Honda, Yamaha and Harley-Davidson together control about two-thirds of the global motorcycle market, and are each developing electric motorbikes. So too are other big established players, such as the Indian-multinationals Hero Motors and Bajaj Auto, and some smaller electric-only startups, including Zero Motorcycles and Energetica.

Electric mobility is leading to a manufacturing boom for vehicles sized between small foldable scooters and full-on motorcycles, said Sam Korus, an analyst at ARK Invest, which is known for its big bet on Tesla. Uber led a round of investment in Lime earlier this year, while Bird is reportedly considering a public offering through a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC).

Troy Siahaan, a road test editor at Motorcycle.com, races a lightweight custom-built electric bike, giving him insight into the similarities and differences between gas and electric two-wheelers.

“The riding experience of an electric bike is similar to gas-powered motorcycles in that you twist the throttle and go,” he said, “but you don’t get sound, vibration or engine heat with electric bikes. By and large, they also don’t require shifting, so they’re easier for new riders than most gas bikes.”

Siahaan also likes the torque output — a measure of the acceleration — of electric bikes, since it is all available at the outset.

Nelson noted that most growth right now is in the small- to mid-sized section of the electric motorcycle and scooter market. These are popular in China and Southeast Asia, where two-wheelers are more common as a mode of transportation, and pollution and noise reduction are socially and environmentally appealing.

Post-Covid-19 demand in urban mobility

Korus said Chinese scooter manufacturer NIU is among the promising players operating in the space between small folding scooters and large motorcycles. The company, which went public in 2018, sells its app-supported smart scooters in 38 countries across Asia, Europe and North and South America. Its stock has risen sharply. The stylish sit-on scooters offer up to 87 miles of range (140 km), multi-color dynamic gauge displays and GPS-based anti-theft systems.

NIU’s primary competition are low-cost manufacturers in China, which make scooters that are less “smart” than its offerings, as well as the higher-end players out of Asia and Europe, which tend to be priced higher. A NIU model may sell for roughly $3,100, while a comparable Honda is over $5,000, a Vespa over $7,000, and a BMW anywhere from $10,000 to $15,000, according to Vincent Yu, a Needham & Co. analyst.

Korus noted that NIU’s software actively collects data that can be used to support autonomous driving and allows the company to add value on top of just selling products. This is also a key feature of Tesla’s business model, which ARK Invest CEO Cathie Wood has pointed to in her bullish thesis on Musk’s company. But for NIU, monetization of autonomous driving may be fairly far off into the future. Yu said today there is high value in the smart features focused on theft prevention and vehicle maintenance, for example, knowing when parts need replacement. Its lightweight lithium-ion batteries are also an advantage over heavier, older electric scooters as consumers look for more portable batteries that are easier to swap in and out.

A big question for NIU is just how big the market can get and whether it can grow both manufacturing capacity and a retail store network along with it, Yu said. Asia is still heavily reliant on petroleum-based scooters, especially Southeast Asia, but that is changing. And, as the world emerges from the Covid pandemic, Yu is betting more travelers will shy away from mass transit and opt for scooters. In countries like China, they are much easier to obtain than cars thanks to lower costs and less regulation and permitting requirements, especially in larger cities.

NIU commands over 26% of the Chinese e-scooter sales market, and has risen in Europe to No. 3 over the past two years. Yu added that NIU is building a new factory, targeting major Southeast Asian markets like Indonesia, and adding more stores around the world to capitalize on the demand. In Q3, the company opened 182 stores and now has another 100 under construction.

Harley-Davidson and the electric future

In the U.S., smaller motorcycles suitable for urban transportation and only occasional highway use are not as popular as in Asia and Europe. Nelson said U.S. buyers tend to be older and favor larger bikes with traditional looks and the signature sounds of a combustion engine.

Harley-Davidson, the largest and oldest U.S. motorcycle manufacturer, has addressed these buyers with its LiveWire, an electric motorcycle with traditional cruiser styling and an impressive 105 horsepower that lets it accelerate to 60 miles per hour in a quick 3.1 seconds. The LiveWire is 7-feet long and nearly 550 pounds, giving it the size and weight to fit in with the company’s mainstream gas-powered offerings, but, at $30,000, it’s just too expensive for many potential customers.

With the traditional American motorcycle buyer aging, Harley sales are down almost 40% since their peak in 2006. “Demographics will be a problem for them,” Nelson said.

Harley is committed to electric under a relatively new management team, led by CEO Jochen Zeitz, who earned high marks for his focus on sustainability as CEO of Puma. “We believe electric needs to play an important role in the future of Harley-Davidson,” he recently told Wall Street analysts. He said sales volumes are low relative to traditional bikes, but added, “It must be an important segment in the long term future of the company and it’s also attracting new riders, new customers to the brand that might not have considered Harley-Davidson before.”

Craig Kennison, who covers Harley for RW Baird, said the priority for Zeitz and his team is to shore up Harley’s finances and focus its business on the key markets where it can generate the most profits from core consumers today, and it will continue to generate the vast majority of its business from its V-twin internal combustion engine cycles (sales for LiveWire are not disclosed but the assumption is they remain very minor). “It’s not a big number,” Kennison said.

Similar to the path chosen by Tesla to first focus on the luxury consumer, Harley needs to perfect the electric motorcycle technology and given the price points today — it cannot alone control the cost curve in key areas like battery technology — only over time will it become more affordable to a larger consumer market. But if Harley makes the right decisions on current profitability centers, it will support the investment in electric vehicles over the decades to come, he said. “Right now Harley has a huge market and needs to make as much money as they can, and servicing the core customer, which is still highly profitable, is the focus.”

Harley is headed into the pedal bicycle market as well. It recently announced that it will spin off its electric bicycle effort, which has been in research and development for a few years, retaining a minority stake in the new firm, Serial 1 Company, a reference to its first-ever machine.

Targeting the e-bicycle market, with pricing below $5,000, is a smart move by Harley’s new management, as it makes the brand affordable for the masses in a growing segment, said Brandon Rolle, Northcoast Research analyst. And similar to NIU’s target scooter market, riders may not need a driver’s license to operate these vehicles, which will help in Harley-Davidson’s appeal to urban commuters and casual recreational cyclists.

High-end bicycle makers like Specialized have an early lead in this market — e-bikes which generate power that is multiplied by the human pedaling activity — and it does have the potential for widespread appeal in the future, according to Kennison. “It lets ‘the everyman’ get on the road … especially during the pandemic people want to get outside and bicycling is a great way to do it, but depending on your fitness level, having the added electrical power creates a totally different experience. You can go 20 to 50 miles and it changes the appeal” he said.

Harley’s motorcycle competitors

In the near future, pent up demand for outdoor products caused by Covid-19 could benefit motorcycle makers, including Harley, which has had a “rough last five years” according to Wedbush Securities analyst James Hardiman. “A lot of investors have looked at Harley-Davidson and the broader motorcycle one as not benefitting,” from the new outdoors boom, the analyst said. But industry sales and used sales are both up, and those are precursors for a broader-based recovery in bike sales, Hardiman recently told CNBC. While the bear case about the aging demographics isn’t going away, it has been that way for a decade already, he said.

Among Harley’s competitors for the future full-size motorcycle buyer are not just traditional players like Honda and Yamaha, but Zero and Energetica, which have some of the most advanced electric bike technology currently available, Siahaan said.

Zero, founded in Santa Cruz, California, in 2006, isn’t a household name, but it’s one of the most established players in the field. It began selling electric motorcycles in 2009, making it one of the very first production two-wheelers (the earliest production electric motorcycles and scooters appeared in the 1970s and 1990s, respectively, but enjoyed limited success).

Zero’s current all-electric line-up includes everything from the FX, a small on- and off-road capable “dual-sport” motorcycle starting at $9,300, all the way up to the SR/S sportbike which starts at $20,000. The 110-horsepower SR/S can reach 124 miles per hour and is capable of more than 200 miles of range when equipped with an enhanced battery. The FR/S is so advanced Road and Track alluded to Zero getting close to the being the Tesla of two wheels in its review. Zero offers it with an app that lets users modify the bikes maximum speed, power, torque and regenerative braking parameters.

Zero reached a 10-year deal with Polaris, a recreational vehicle powerhouse, that should give it the resources to further expand manufacturing and distribution. It will bring Zero’s powertrain technology and software to Polaris’ lineup of snowmobiles and off-road vehicles.

The high-end brand Energetica was formed in 2010 as a subsidiary of CRP Group, a motorsport and aviation manufacturer based in Modena, Italy. It offers a small lineup of attractively styled bikes starting at $17,600 for the general-purpose Eva EsseEsse9, and ending with the top-of-the-line Ego+. The latter is a 145-horsepower sportbike with an eye-watering starting price of nearly $24,000, but a 150 mph top speed and up to 250 miles of range.

Saha of the Global Marketing Institute told CNBC that the company is investing highly in R&D and owns several patents related to electric vehicle manufacturing in Europe, Asia, and North America.

Of course, as the largest motorcycle manufacturer in the world, Honda Motorcycles of Japan, is not standing still. It recently filed patents for electric-powered versions of its CB125R and CB300R, these are small, easy to manage general purpose bikes with “café racer” styling.

Saha notes that Honda is also making large investments in the development of swappable battery technology for electric motorcycles to allow riders to quickly replace the batteries after use. These moves, and factors like its global dealer and distribution network will aid Honda, Saha said.

Tesla moving beyond cars

And then there is Tesla. Though Musk has said the company will not produce a road bike, he has announced plans to release an electric all-terrain vehicle, the Cyberquad, late in 2021, and has at least teased the possibility of one day making a two-wheeled electric bike. In the least, Tesla could easily pivot a portion of its battery business to supplying other manufacturers, says Nelson.

Generating revenue is a big concern for any start-up, but especially in the electric motorcycle space, where federal and state-level regulation abound and consumer expectations are high. Many of the companies that first entered the electric two-wheeler market place have failed or been absorbed by larger players. This includes Brammo, which launched in 2002 and sold bikes with six-speed transmissions like those in traditional gas bikes rather than the single-speed automatics most electric manufacturers use. It was first purchased by the recreational vehicle maker Polaris in 2015, then engine maker Cummins in 2017. Brammo-branded bikes are no longer sold, but its technology lives on with its purchasers.

A similar fate befell Alta Motors, a maker of technologically advanced off-road electric bikes. The company shuttered operations in 2018 and its assets were taken over by Bombardier’s Recreational Products business in 2019 for use across its product lineup, which includes Ski Doo snowmobiles and the Can-Am line of three-wheel motorcycles.

“It’s always difficult to predict the future,” Siahaan said. “A lot of companies come out with big, bold announcements, but never even come to market.”

“It’s very early, so it is difficult to see how it all plays out, but that’s typical of a true growth market,” added Kennison.

Nov 18
Love0

Video: TMC Dumont is a 300hp motorcycle fitted with a Rolls-Royce aircraft engine

By General Posts

by Jahla Seppanen from https://www.themanual.com

When you’re a retired Formula One driver, what else can you do in your free time except build mind-bending concept motorcycles? In the case of Tarso Marques of Brazil, that’s exactly what he’s doing with the insane TMC Dumont motorcycle.

Yes, it’s still a concept so, no, you can’t drive it yet. In fact, you might be wondering how it even works because the construction shouldn’t make sense in real life.

This hub-less bike swaps a traditional car engine for a 1960s Rolls-Royce aircraft engine, creating an absolutely sick design with a body aesthetic that is futuristic, svelt, and should definitely be in the next 007 movie.

Anatomically, the aircraft engine is positioned where a standard motorcycle engine and fuel tank would be, but takes up an enormous amount of space. Basically, as much as a full frame, radiator —the works. The massive 36-inch wheels are essentially spoke-less and completely open in the center, so with the 300-horsepower engine, we’re hoping the brake disk and caliper have something to hold on to … because we can’t see it.

Based on the low-riding profile of the seat and engine, it’s questionable how the bike could sit above the ground, but it does. At least, the concept does. Just pray for a road without speed bumps.

Some motorcycle enthusiasts have questioned the safety and turning abilities that would result from having the back “wheel” so close to the rider — hello, wedgie or mega backside tire burn — and have called the bike “impractical.” That being said, TMC Dumont drove away with the “Best of Show” award at the 2018 Daytona Bike Week.

This isn’t the first time a motorcycle fanatic has strapped an airplane engine to their hog. Back in 2013, the Red Baron bike featured the 150-horsepower, nine-cylinder Rotec Radial engine used in WWI-era planes. However, in terms of pure looks, we’ve never seen anything like TMC Dumont. The motorcycle has been compared to everything from a piece of art to a Tron bike — ultra-sleek, and record-breaking.

Previewing the other passion projects Marques is developing with his brand Tarso Marques Concepts makes us mildly jealous, somewhat shook, and overall excited to finally get back out on a bike.

 

Nov 03
Love0

Yamaha Introduces the Next-Generation MT-07

By General Posts

Yamaha Introduces the Next-Generation MT-07

The Most Successful Mid-Size Hyper Naked Goes to the Next Level

MARIETTA, Ga. – November 3, 2020 – Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, today introduced the 2021 MT-07 as the new model in the company’s Hyper Naked motorcycle segment. With features such as distinctive next-generation MT styling with a signature LED headlight, updated inverted LCD dash and larger diameter brake discs, the new MT-07 is the ultimate Hyper Naked middleweight.

The Dark Side of Japan

Yamaha’s focus is on the future, and by the end of the first decade of the 21st century the company’s product development teams were on a mission to create a new generation of future icons. To make a difference it is necessary to take a risk, and some of the company’s greatest designs have been those bikes that defied convention and dared to be different. So, when Yamaha’s designers and engineers set about creating a new breed of motorcycles, they made the conscious decision to break all the rules and take a whole new direction.

The next key decision in the development of this new generation of bikes was that they would be distinctly Japanese, with a unique look and feel that set them apart from every other brand. Playing with a variety of Japanese influences, including Tokyo’s motorcycle subculture, the development team’s focus would be on crafting a bike with a unique, thrilling and enjoyable riding experience, achieved primarily through the delivery of linear torque and easy agility. The look would be naked and mechanical, to give this new breed of bike a pure and muscular image. Every piece of technology would be there to serve the rider and create a more engaging, rewarding and satisfying riding experience.

Inspired by Japanese Subculture and created by some of the most visionary designers in the business, the MT-07 arrived shortly after the very first MT-09 was launched. The motorcycle world was changing, and Yamaha was leading the way with two of the most significant new models to be launched by the company in its long and illustrious history. With its unique package of price, performance and engine character, the MT line is proving to be one of the most successful product ranges ever produced by Yamaha.

New MT-07

Featuring distinctive new bodywork that reflects its pure, next-generation MT DNA, the 2021 MT-07 represents the progressive evolution of one of the world’s favorite naked bikes. A range of upgraded features include an engaging and character-packed engine, more powerful front brakes, Michelin tires, new LED headlight with LED turn signals and position lights, and LCD instruments, as well as tapered handlebars.

New colors and refined detailing reinforce the bike’s MT family DNA, and with an extremely competitive price point, the MT-07 is ready to maintain its leading position as the bike that works for everyone by offering the best balance of performance and value in its segment.

Next-generation design

The 2021 MT-07’s next-generation bodywork reflects the ongoing evolution of the MT family and gives the Hyper Naked bike a more refined and distinctive look with a quality feel. Key to the new look is a compact and minimalist new LED headlight assembly whose position lights and headlight deliver a signature look of the next-generation MT family. By tightly compacting the new bodywork, radiator and seat around the machine’s CP2 engine, the mass-centralized layout projects a real sense of torque and power. Many details – from the headlight accents and fuel tank covers to the engine stays and footpegs – enhance the overall feel of quality, underlining the MT-07’s winning combination of outstanding value with a premium specification.

LED projector lighting

Modern, compact and lightweight, the new bifunctional LED headlight features a centrally located high/low projector lamp that underlines the pure MT DNA it shares with the new MT-09. As well as giving the MT-07 a bold and distinctive new look, this compact projector headlight produces a powerful beam with well-defined edges that provide excellent forward visibility during nighttime riding. New left and right side LED position lights give the MT-07 its signature face and reaffirms its close family ties with the MT-09.

689cc CP2 engine

The latest 689cc 2-cylinder CP2 engine features a revised air intake duct design and optimized fuel injection settings, as well as a new 2-into-1 exhaust and new ECU. These changes give a more linear engine response and deliver a smoother torque/rpm curve for thrilling acceleration. The 2021 engine also features new Crystal Graphite engine covers as well as a new silver-colored exhaust pipe and new muffler and exhaust protectors. The crossplane concept engine’s 270-degree crank gives an uneven firing sequence with a more characterful exhaust note that emphasizes the torque feeling during acceleration with a more linear torque delivery for outstanding response at all engine speeds.

Larger diameter 298mm dual front discs

One of the most significant technical upgrades on the MT-07 is the new larger diameter front brake discs. Front dual disc size is increased from 282mm on the previous model to 298mm on the new bike, giving more stopping power and greater controllability. Together with the 245mm rear disc, the new system offers increased performance – and with the fitment of the new Michelin Road 5 tires, the increased stopping power is especially apparent in wet conditions. ABS is standard as well on the MT-07.

Wider tapered aluminum bars

Following numerous evaluations of clay models and many test rides using riders with different physiques, Yamaha designers have fine-tuned the new MT-07’s riding position in order to achieve added comfort and better controllability. The 2021 model is fitted with new aluminum tapered handlebars that are 32mm wider to give a more assertive riding position as well as a little extra leverage for easier maneuverability at slow speeds.

New LCD instruments

The 2021 MT-07 now features a higher specification LCD meter. The inverted dashboard and its compact and lightweight multifunction display with larger displays for the clock, gear, trip meters and tachometer provide clear information. The use of spot color gives an accent for the high-rpm range display – and new handlebar switches enables the rider to operate the meter more easily and efficiently.

LED turn signals

Along with the new LED headlight, the 2021 MT-07 is also equipped with new LED turn signals at the front and rear. Lighter and more compact, they complement the next-generation style of the bike and reinforce the premium specification of this best-selling Hyper Naked.

Latest generation tires

The latest Michelin Road 5 tires – 180/55-17 at the rear and 120/70-17 at the front – provide excellent levels of traction, sporty handling performance, and excellent wet weather handling qualities, making the MT-07 the ideal choice for both new and experienced riders.

New colors, graphics and finishing

For 2021, the new MT-07 is available in the latest color schemes and graphics that reinforce the MT family connection and give a premium feel to this outstanding middleweight. New black levers give the MT-07 a refined look.

2021 MT-07 Key Features

  • Next-generation body design with pure MT family DNA
  • New LED projector headlight with LED position lights
  • 689cc crossplane technology CP2 engine
  • 270-degree crank for linear torque delivery
  • New 298mm dual front wave-type discs
  • New wider aluminum tapered handlebars
  • More comfortable and assertive riding position
  • New inverted LCD meter
  • New LED turn signals
  • Latest generation Michelin Road 5 tires
  • New colors and graphics

The 2021 Yamaha MT-07 will arrive at authorized Yamaha dealers beginning in January and will be available in Storm Fluo, Team Yamaha Blue and Matte Raven Black color schemes for $7,699 MSRP. To learn more about the 2021 Yamaha MT-07 visit https://www.yamahamotorsports.com/hyper-naked/models/mt-07.

Find a range of Genuine Yamaha Accessories, apparel and more at https://www.shopyamaha.com.

For more information related to all Yamaha products, visit https://www.yamahamotorsports.com.

Follow Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, through your favorite social media sites at www.facebook.com/yamahamotorusa, www.instagram.com/yamahamotorusa, www.twitter.com/yamahamotorusa. #Yamaha #YamahaMotor #YamahaMotorUSA

Nov 02
Love0

Yamaha Tricity 300 is the ideal Covid commuter machine

By General Posts

by Rob Hull from https://www.dailymail.co.uk

Covid commuter: Yamaha’s three-wheel Tricity 300 can be ridden with just a car licence and used in bus lanes – is it the answer for safe pandemic transport?

For those of us living or working in cities, getting around has been a whole lot more complicated in 2020.

With the Government repeatedly telling us to keep away from public transport if at all possible and traffic returning to near pre-pandemic levels, as more people use their cars, many have been left to make the difficult decision of taking risks with their well-being or enduring hours a week in jams to get to work.

But there could be an answer to the problem – and it comes with three wheels.

It’s called the Yamaha Tricity. And while it might look like a cross between a scooter and a Transformer, it could be the ideal commuting machine during the Covid pandemic…

I live in London and am one of the lucky ones who has been able to return to a coronavirus-compliant office a few days a week to escape the rigmorale of home working.

But having winced each time after touching a hand-rail on the bus or grumbled at the sight of people without face masks on the underground, I began researching alternative transportation options.

That’s when I stumbled across the new Tricity 300, which was released earlier this year.

As is the dead giveaway in the name, it has three wheels and a 300cc (well, it’s actually 292cc) single-cylinder engine.

Scooters like this are not out of the ordinary these days; Piaggio launched the first three-wheeler – the MP3 – way back in 2006, and it’s become a popular choice along with rival tripod scooters, especially among commuters and delivery riders in London and other major cities.

Yamaha Tricity 300 has loopholes to make it perfect for pandemic commuting

But the Tricity 300 has a few tricks up its sleeve. That’s because – unlike other tripod scooters – you don’t need to hold a motorcycle licence of any type to ride it.

If you’re over the age of 21 and have a full car licence you can drive one without having to undertake any extra training – even if you’ve never sat on a motorbike of any type before in your life.

This is due to a stipulation about the distance between the two front wheels.

The gap between them – 470mm – and the fact it has a foot pedal brake means the Tricity 300 qualifies as a trike rather than a motorcycle.

That means a ‘B’ car licence is adequate to ride one and, in theory, you don’t even have to wear a helmet – though we’d dissuade you from doing so on safety grounds and that it would likely to make you popular with police officers.

You can even take a passenger on the back, which is also fully within the rules.

And the Tricity has a few other loopholes up its sleeve that make it appeal to a wider audience than just dedicated bikers.

Not least the fact you can use it in bus lanes, which are free to access on a trike with a weight of less than 450kg in London – with the Tricity tipping the scales at almost half that (239kg). Perfect, for bombing past car drivers backed-up on congested routes.

You can also use dedicated motorcycle parking bays that are dotted around metropolises.

The one downside I discovered is, because of its length, it is not exempt from the Congestion Charge, which could mean taking the odd diversion if you’re destination is in – or route is via – central London.

How easy is it for novice riders?

As an experienced motorcyclist (I’ve been riding motorbikes since I was six), it took a little time for me to reset my brain to understand not just riding but handling a three-wheeled scooter from a novice’s perspective.

The first thing anyone would notice is that it’s a bit of a lump to wheel around – and most of the weight is top heavy due to the oddball front suspension system.

However, Yamaha has equipped the Tricity with something called ‘Standing Assist’, which is a button on the left handlebar that, when activated, locks the front forks in a fixed upright position.

This makes it far easier to wheel the bike around, whether that’s to manoeuvre it in a garage or slot it into a small space in a bike parking bay. So much so, in fact, that you can push it back and forth with one finger without having to worry about the bike toppling over.

The assist system can also be triggered when you’re slowing to a standstill, in traffic or when stopping at a junction for instance.

Creep below 8mph and an orange light illuminates on the digital dashboard to say it can be activated before the clocks hit 0mph.

It means you never have to put your feet down, if you can get the hang of it.

It sounds easy in theory, but it does take some time to master – even more so for a novice rider with just a car driving licence to their name.

That said, it rapidly become second nature, and you’ll quickly be levitating at every set of traffic lights.

Once you open the throttle – even the lightest twist of the grip – the Standing Assist automatically deactivates and the front end can freely rock from side-to-side again, so you need to give it some welly if you haven’t got a sole on the tarmac.

Once on the move, the Tricity is a nimble vehicle. Even at low speeds, it takes very little effort to lever it from one side to the other. The biggest compliment I can give it is that it feels very much like a conventional motorcycle at pace.

And it’s not slow. Even with just 28bhp at the back wheel and a weight of around a quarter of a tonne, it fires off the line with plenty of urgency.

It also comes with traction control on standard, which cuts the power if the rear wheel spins up on damp tarmac or if you’re too hamfisted – a safety feature rarely available on a scooter of this size.

Flat out, it will – reportedly – accelerate over an indicated 80mph, and thanks to the large fairing it offers ample wind protection if you do take it out on a motorway.

Security you just won’t find on two wheels

By far the biggest benefit of a scooter of this ilk is that it gives you something you’ll always lack on a motorcycle, and that’s added an added sense of security.

With two wheels out front, you could ride it across an ice rink and not fall off it.

It delivers this sensation of safety in droves and you quickly build up confidence to tip into corners in the wet without a concern in the world, rather than having the fear of the front wheel washing away from underneath you at any given moment.

Adding to this feeling of security is the extremely potent braking power.

While it has the traditional lever on the right bar to operate the front brake, both the left lever and additional foot pedal in the right-hand-side of the footwell anchor the brakes for all three wheels and is incredibly responsive.

We didn’t use the footbrake at all, to be honest, but grabbing a handful with your left mitt and the scooter comes to a standstill in an instant – and you don’t have to worry about the front wheel sliding from beneath you and leaving you in a heap in the road.

What are the running costs like?

In theory, the Tricity 300 returns a claimed 85.6mpg, depending on how aggressive you are with the throttle, so it takes quite a few miles for you to empty the 13-litre fuel tank. I was averaging around 70mpg, though predominantly riding through town.

Tax is just £44 a year, insurance will be substantially cheaper than car cover and consumables like the tyres and brakes last longer because the stresses put through them are shared across three locations rather than two.

The biggest stumbling block is the price, with an option-free Tricity 300 ringing in at a fairly steep £7,547. Put down a deposit of £1,574 and monthly payments on PCP finance fall to £89 over three years (and a final balloon payment of £3,780 if you want to keep it after the 36-month period).

Is it the ideal Covid commuter?

Even for someone who has never ridden a motorcycle before, the Tricity 300 will be a doddle to use – definitely a safer stepping stone than going from four wheels to two.

Unlike some bikes that will frighten newcomers with bundles of power and the possibility of it flinging you off at any moment, the Tricity instills confidence you can’t get with two wheels.

Throw into the mix that it has both a side stand and centre stand, hand-operated parking brake, keyless ignition and under-seat storage for two helmets – or a couple of rucksacks when you’re riding – and it has a modicum of the practicality you’d expect from a tiny city car. You also get a 12v-volt chargepoint on the inside of the fairing near your knee – though an USB would have been a better socket for 2020 life.

A winter pack option, which adds an apron, heated grips and knuckle visors to keep your hands toasty, is a recommended £280 addition if you are going to use it at this time of year.

The downside is the bulk – more so when you’re trying to move it around with the engine off. The standing assist function works well, but it still feels like you’re pushing a hulking shopping trolley around rather than a light motorcycle.

Commuters should be warned that you do need to take care when filtering. It feels wider than a skinny 300cc-comparable two-wheeler and the mirrors in particular – which are mounted just below the screen – are at the same height as most commercial vehicle wing mirrors, so can result in clangs with white van men.

But trundling past stationary traffic while you keep yourself isolated from the virus will fill you with a smugness that will make you forget about how cold it is commuting on a scooter in November time.

For getting to work safely, quickly and cheaply, there are few better choices than this.

Price: from £7,547

Engine: 292cc, single cylinder, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 4-valves

Power: 28bhp

Top speed: 85mph

Fuel consumption: 85.6mpg

CO2 emissions: 77g/km

Kerb weight: 239kg

Fuel tank capacity: 13 litres

Length: 2,250mm

Width: 815mm

Height: 1,470mm

Seat height: 795mm

Wheelbase: 1,595mm

Oct 27
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Yamaha Introduces the New 2021 MT-09 Hyper Naked

By General Posts

Yamaha Introduces the New 2021 MT-09 Hyper Naked With Class-Leading Specifications Increased Torque, Decreased Weight and Radical New Looks.

MARIETTA, Ga. – October 27, 2020 – Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, today introduced the 2021 MT-09 as the new model in the company’s Hyper Naked motorcycle segment. Featuring a torque-rich engine, decreased weight and radical new looks, the all-new MT-09 fully showcases Yamaha’s signature Master of Torque design.

The Dark Side of Japan

As the first decade of the 21st century was coming to an end, a group of visionary designers and engineers were working on what would become one of the iconic motorcycles in the history of Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. It was to be the beginning of a whole new chapter in the history of Yamaha.

The idea was to create a new kind of machine whose primary function was to inspire, excite and impress. A radically different motorcycle that would herald a new beginning, defy convention and be the catalyst for change, not just within Yamaha but also in the world of motorcycling. A bike that was designed to be ridden just for the thrill of the ride and would instill a real feeling of belonging and a clear sense of identity to a new generation of like-minded individuals.

It became clear that the future of motorcycling was going to be all about the emotion, the thrill, the feeling, the excitement. The rest is history. Quick, agile and aggressively styled, the naked MT-09 instantly attracted a new breed of younger riders who loved its brutal good looks, big-torque engine and adrenaline-charged ride. With its strong emphasis on the thrill of the ride, together with a focus on premium quality, minimalist design and the use of pure technology that enhances the riding experience – The Dark Side of Japan philosophy has inspired every Yamaha Hyper Naked model since day one and continues to be the force that makes every MT much more than just a motorcycle.

New MT-09

Lighter, more powerful and more technologically advanced in every area, the dynamic MT-09 is the purest expression of the Hyper Naked core values. The new MT-09 delivers an even more dynamic performance as well as more agile handling. Equipped with advanced electronic controls and an all-new chassis, the 2021 MT-09 is the ultimate package that delivers outstanding value in the 900cc Hyper Naked class.

New CP3 engine

To achieve a more torquey and agile feel, the 2021 MT-09’s 890cc engine has been completely redesigned and reduced in weight. Virtually every major component is new, including the pistons, connecting rods, camshafts and crankcases. Despite its larger capacity and higher power output, the 2021 powerplant is lighter than former models.

The torquey CP3 engine delivers ‘real world’ performance, enabling the rider to fully utilize its road-focused power delivery at everyday riding speeds. The larger-capacity engine makes the 2021 MT-09 an even more exciting and rewarding motorcycle that delivers stronger performance in every type of riding condition, whether it’s fast or slow, wet or dry.

Strong torque and power with increased economy

One of the key design features of the new 890cc engine is the completely new fuel delivery system. For 2021, the fuel injectors are mounted to the throttle valve side – versus attached directly to the cylinder head – for a better fuel atomization that also reduces the fuel adhesion to the intake port walls. This new system produces outstanding combustion efficiency and contributes towards the new model’s 11% increase in fuel efficiency.

New APSG ride-by-wire throttle

The MT-09’s Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T) now features a new Accelerator Position Sensor Grip (APSG). Similar to the unit featured on the YZF-R1 and R1M but equipped with model-specific friction and throttle opening settings, this lightweight ride-by-wire system replaces the previous model’s pulley set-up to give excellent feel and reliability.

New intake and exhaust systems

The all-new 890cc engine is equipped with a redesigned high-efficiency air intake system and a newly designed exhaust. These systems are designed to enhance the sense of acceleration and torque when the rider is accelerating from a stop or powering out of a low-speed corner.

As the engine speed increases, the intake sound becomes more dominant and heightens the feeling of acceleration felt by the rider. This is accomplished via a new intake system with an air cleaner box featuring an all-new three duct layout, with each duct having a different cross section and length, further enhancing the MT-09’s torque-rich riding sensation.

Optimized transmission and uprated A&S clutch

To match the 2021 model’s increased engine performance, the transmission has been optimized by slightly raising the ratios on the first and second gear. To handle the torque, Yamaha’s Assist and Slipper (A&S) clutch uses a new material for its friction plates, and the cam angle is changed to give a lighter pull at the lever for an even gentler feeling when downshifting.

Die-cast aluminum Deltabox chassis

The 2021 MT-09 features an all-new lightweight CF die-cast aluminum Deltabox chassis that has been developed in unison with the larger capacity 890cc big-torque engine. Featuring larger twin beams that run directly from the steering head assembly through to the swingarm pivot to give optimal strength, the newly designed aluminum frame, subframe and swingarm are lighter, making a significant contribution towards the increased agility of the 2021 MT-09.

For enhanced handling characteristics, the frame’s longitudinal, lateral and torsional rigidity balance have been refined, with a 50% increase in lateral rigidity for high levels of straight-line stability. To match the more compact frame and shorter front forks, the head pipe position is lowered by 30mm, giving an increased feeling of front-end grip when cornering.

High-rigidity swingarm

The new 250g lighter aluminum swingarm has a straighter right side for a more symmetrical appearance that complements the next-generation body design. To achieve better stability, the 2021 swingarm pivot is mounted between the frame structure to reduce unsprung weight and enhance the rigidity balance of the new frame.

Next-generation MT design

With its bare, beautiful and functional look, the new MT-09 represents the next major step in the ongoing evolution of the MT DNA. The design strips away everything but the essentials and presents an exterior that reveals the mechanical beauty of the bike to visually express the sound, torque, freedom and agility.

Flexible riding position

The riding position was designed to accommodate riders of varying physiques via adjustable handlebar clamps and footpeg mounting points, allowing riders to set a position that gives them a feeling of fit the moment they get on the bike. The fuel tank and seat have been refined to give the rider a feeling of being one with the machine.

6-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU)

The new MT-09 is the first Yamaha Hyper Naked model to be equipped with a high-tech 6-axis IMU. Developed from the system that has been used on the YZF-R1 since 2015, the MT-09’s 6-axis IMU is 50% smaller and 40% lighter.

Constantly measuring acceleration in the forward-backward, up-down and left-right directions – as well as the angular velocity in the machine’s pitch, roll and yaw directions – the 6-axis IMU sends data in real-time to the ECU which controls the electronic rider aids. The class-leading array of rider aids includes lean-sensitive Traction Control System (TCS), Slide Control System (SCS) as well as a front wheel LIFt Control System (LIF) and Brake Control system (BC).

Lean-sensitive rider aids

By monitoring the speed difference between the front and rear wheels, the lean-sensitive TCS optimizes the drive force of the rear tire during acceleration. The SCS adjusts power when a rear wheel slide is predicted, allowing the rider to focus on their riding. Similarly, the LIF enables the rider to concentrate on the road ahead by adjusting engine output to control front wheel lift and smooth out machine behavior when pulling away and accelerating. The BC system works with the ABS and independently controls and modulates the front and rear brake pressure, helping to prevent wheel lock-up during hard braking when riding upright as well as when banking.

Three TCS modes

The TCS has three switchable modes, and each mode integrates three of the rider support systems so that the intervention levels are changed all at once in Modes 1 and 2. Mode 1 delivers moderate intervention while Mode 2 gives strong intervention and Mode M enables the rider to select manual settings. These electronic aids reduce the workload of the rider for more concentration on the road ahead.

3.5-inch full color TFT display

The new 3.5-inch full-color TFT display shows clear and precise data. Its lightweight construction and mid-sized layout blends seamlessly with the new LED headlight assembly and maintains the compact and agile feeling from the rider’s viewpoint. The bar-type tachometer changes color as rpm rise and fall, and the display includes a clock, gearshift indicator, water and air temperature and more. The new display is linked with the 6-axis IMU, and riders can switch between displays and also select their preferred mode for the electronic aids via a handlebar-mounted switch.

LED projector lighting

Compact, powerful and modern, the MT-09’s new full LED headlight assembly features a single central bifunctional projector headlight with multiple LEDs that provide a broad, even and powerful beam with soft edges for both low and high beam settings. Twin LED position lights present a bold new face for the MT-09, and they project a signature Y-shape icon to give the bike a predatory stare that represents the future direction of MT design. The theme is continued at the rear where the lightweight LED taillight projects a Y-shape illumination that confirms the bike’s next-generation MT DNA.

Quick Shift System

For the ultimate acceleration, the MT-09 gets a Quick Shift System (QSS) that ensures seamless and clutchless full-throttle upshifts and smooth downshifts. Together with the A&S clutch, this electronic aid transforms the riding experience and enables the rider to optimize the torque levels for more thrilling acceleration as well as higher levels of chassis stability and control when downshifting.

10-spoke Spin Forged wheels

The new, Yamaha-exclusive Spin Forged front and rear wheels are lighter with a significant 11% decrease at the rear wheel, making a big contribution to the bike’s agile handling character.

Fully adjustable KYB® front suspension

Featuring 41mm tubes that give smooth suspension action and maintain high levels of flex resistance, the new lightweight high specification KYB front forks are fully adjustable for preload, compression and rebound damping to match the character of the compact new higher rigidity frame while reducing the tendency to pitch. The new adjustable KYB rear shock is set up to suit the all-new chassis.

Front brake with radial master cylinder

To match the higher engine performance and more dynamic chassis character, the high-tech MT-09 is only the second Yamaha model to be equipped with the YZF-R1-type front braking system. Featuring a Nissin radial master cylinder in which the piston moves in a direction that’s parallel to the brake lever travel, this Supersport-class technology gives a more linear supply of hydraulic pressure to the dual front disc brakes for excellent controllability.

2021 MT-09 Key Features

  • New 890cc inline 3-cylinder 4-valve per cylinder DOHC liquid-cooled engine
  • 8-pounds lighter
  • New lightweight aluminum frame, subframe and swingarm
  • New generation MT styling
  • Full LED lighting with Y-shape brand signature icon front and rear
  • New Quick Shift system with up and downshift functions
  • Refined A&S clutch
  • Light and compact new 6-axis Interntial Measurement Unit (IMU)
  • Lean-sensitive rider aids: TCS, SCS and LIFt with three intervention modes
  • ABS and Brake Control system (BC)
  • D-MODE switchable engine running modes
  • New ultra-light Spin Forged 17-inch 10-spoke wheels
  • New fully adjustable KYB 41mm USD forks
  • New adjustable KYB rear shock
  • New full color 3.5-inch TFT instruments
  • Radial front master cylinder, 298mm dual front discs

The 2021 Yamaha MT-09 will arrive at authorized Yamaha dealers beginning in January, and will be available in Storm Fluo, Team Yamaha Blue and Matte Raven Black color schemes for $9,399 MSRP. To learn more about the 2021 Yamaha MT-09 visit https://www.yamahamotorsports.com/hyper-naked/models/mt-09.

Find a range of Genuine Yamaha Accessories, apparel and more at https://www.shopyamaha.com.

For more information related to all Yamaha products, visit https://www.yamahamotorsports.com.

Follow Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, through your favorite social media sites at www.facebook.com/yamahamotorusa, www.instagram.com/yamahamotorusa, www.twitter.com/yamahamotorusa. #Yamaha #YamahaMotor #YamahaMotorUSA

Sep 15
Love1

Yamaha MT-25 launched, MT-15 previewed

By General Posts

from https://www.thesundaily.my

YAMAHA’s first “hyper naked” (Ed: That sounds a bit naughty!) motorcycle, the MT-09 took the Asian market by a storm when it was launched, just as the naked bike category popularity grew.

Here in Malaysia, there has been a significant increase of interest in the street naked category and on Saturday, Hong Leong Yamaha Motor announces its fulfillment of this void with the launching of the Yamaha MT-25.

Introduced with the usual Yamaha fanfare at the Sofitel Hotel and Resort in Kuala Lumpur, the new model promises to be another hot item in the Yamaha model range.

“The Yamaha MT-25 packs aggressive styling and notable performance and is indeed a cutting-edge new addition to Yamaha’s class-defining naked bike segment,” said the company.

“With high torque performance, high handle bar and upright riding position, the MT-25 will be a comfortable ride in the city. It has all the original Yamaha MT-Series DNA built in with a multitude of innovative features.”

Powered by the tested and proven performance-driven with features ranging from liquid-cooled 249cc,four4-stroke, in-line two-cylinder, DOHC, eight-valve, fuel-injected power plant capable of producing 35.5hp at 12,000rpm of power and a torque of 23.6Nm at 10,000rpm, the MT-25 is “a force to be reckoned with in its class”.

The new “Master of Torque” uses inverted front forks that not only provides sure cornering performance but also supports an agile and comfortable riding style while it’s predator-type dual slant LED position lights plus a central mounted LED headlight, full digital LCD meter panel with shift timing light, sleek LED signal indicators with hazard light functionality makes it an impressive looking bike.

In addition to this, the MT-25 is equipped with the dual channel anti-lock braking system (ABS) for both front and rear wheels, a sought-after feature most Malaysian riders have been waiting for.

Priced at an affordable RM21,500 excluding insurance & registration fees, the Yamaha MT-25 comes in two distinctive MT Series colours – Ice Fluo and Yamaha Blue and will be available at all Yamaha Big Bike dealers from Sept 18 onwards.

Hong Leong Yamaha Motor will so be giving away an exclusive First Edition MT Series pewter key chain for every purchase of the new MT-25.

Crafted by Royal Selangor, the world-renowned pewter craft smiths, the sleek arrow-shaped keychain design symbolises speed, dynamism and movement. In addition to this, every new owner of the MT-25 will receive a safety disc lock with their purchase.

With the constant evolving of the Yamaha Hyper Naked segment, specifically in terms of styling, high tech engine, and electronics, guests at the launch event were also given a sneak preview of another Master of Torque masterpiece, the MT-15.

The single-cylinder, 150cc MT-15 will only be made available in the market in November 2020, when the price will also be announced.

Sep 03
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Here’s a First Look at Putin’s Aurus Escort, the New Russian Electric Motorcycle

By General Posts

by Elena Gorgan from https://www.autoevolution.com

Russian President Vladimir Putin is not the kind of guy who wears his heart on his sleeve, to put it lightly, so it’s hardly surprising that the state-backed Aurus luxury carmaker has been working on an e-bike for the Presidential convoy.

Putin has been on a mission to replace most vehicles on the Presidential convoy with newer, Russia-made models, and he’s doing it with help from Aurus. So far, the luxury carmaker has delivered a van, the Presidential Senat limo and the Komendant SUV. They’re all armored and tech-packed, as befits any prez, but more so since we’re talking about the Russian tsar.

The Escort, which is the dubbing currently attached to the Aurus electric motorcycle, will join the rest of the Aurus Presidential fleet sometime in 2022 as the first (and only) EV. There is no official information on it and only a few minor details are available, but that’s the timeline a recent report in Moto Station gives.

According to the same media outlet, the Escort will be used primarily in the Presidential motorcade, which explains its massive size and touring bike appearance. With an aluminum frame, the Escort comes with a large and adjustable windscreen, hard side panniers (that could carry anything from emergency supplies to weaponry) and a monoshock on the rear swing arm. The front fork has been replaced with a monoshock similar to that on some BMW bikes.

The Escort is bulky, but it’s also very fast. Power comes from an 112 kW (150 hp) electric motor that will take the bike to speeds of up to 240 kph (150 mph), which is incredibly fast for a bike that’s supposed to be used mostly as part of larger convoys.

As noted above, the Escort is supposedly coming out two years from now, which means it will be a while before we get anything more specific in terms of specs.

Aug 31
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Ed Motorcycles Launches the Concept Z, Flaunting Incredible EV Stats and Design

By General Posts

by Cristian Curmei from https://www.autoevolution.com

Electric vehicles are probably going to be the way of the future. Everyone seems to be getting in on the action, no matter what history of manufacturing they may have had. From automobile to motorcycle manufacturers, companies like GM, Lamborghini, Honda, and even Harley-Davidson are starting to apply their accumulative knowledge of mechanics, design, and production into EVs.

But this one isn’t about those big brand guys. This one’s about a little shop down south in Aussie land named Ed Motorcycles. Before we go any further, allow me to explain why it’s always best to work with a small production shop. Limitless. Yup just one word. Because production isn’t large, these shops can push the limits on their vehicles in terms of road regulations, and attention to detail remains quite high. With this in mind, continue reading.

She’s been named Concept Z. I know, a bit uninspired, but don’t fold your hand just yet, she’s a beast! This might undoubtably be the strongest electric motorcycles from a mom and pop shop. Look. I’m just gonna lay it out flat. She has a top speed of 93 miles per hour (150kph). Even the new Kuberg hits half that. How she does it, we’ll get into in a minute.

As with most other EVs, her acceleration and torque curves are near linear and give it an undisclosed 0-60 time that’s considered one of the fastest in the world. How she does this is due to a motor and controller that regulates how power is distributed and when. The motor is an air-cooled, radial flux, interior magnet brushless motor that comes with minimal maintenance level.

The brain behind the power is operated by a Sevcon Gen 4 775amp controller. This little device offers the rear axle a power of 850 Nm of torque and 52 kw.

Now think about this for a second. You go out with your buddies on a Saturday ride, and you show up on this rudimentary stallion. You all gather round and get ready to hit the streets. Everyone’s revving their engines, while you wait in silence.

Everyone leaves the parking lot and you’re the last one out. You accelerate and hear nothing more than the wind under your helmet. In under 30 seconds, you’ve reached the front of the line like a ninja heading for the lead ronin. No one heard you coming, everyone saw you go. Until that point you didn’t get much attention. But now, everyone is asking you what’s under the hood.

And you tell them all that she’s electric. With blah blah and a 99V lithium-ion battery. On the front she’s got a 4-piston 298mm disc brake, and a single piston 220mm disc on the rear.

Suspension is taken care of by a huge 43mm front telescopic fork and huge rear coil over shock. This should take care of any bumps in your road, but also offers as much traction and handling as possible. If this isn’t enough for you, take into consideration the direct drive train of 5.4:1.

The aesthetic design however is classically simple, sharp and fully functional, with a chain-driven functionality. Why put anything else on it?

Aug 29
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1992 Honda CBR600 F2 Morphs Into a Funky Cafe Racer

By General Posts

by Silvian Secara from https://www.autoevolution.com

In case you were wondering what the Honda CBR600 would look like as a naked bike, here’s your answer.

During the early ‘90s, the CBR600 F and F2 were a truly groundbreaking pair! Not only were these Honda’s best-selling two-wheelers at the time, they were also the Japanese manufacturer’s most innovative motorcycles to that date. In fact, let’s dive into some technical details and see what made these machines so special.

As of 1992, the legendary F2 was powered by a fierce inline-four DOHC mill. This feral four-stroke beast had a displacement of 598cc and was capable of delivering up to 100 hp at 12,000 rpm, along with 47 pound-feet (64 Nm) of torque output at 10,500 rpm. A six-speed transmission carries the engine’s power to CBR600 F2’s rear wheel through a chain final drive. Honda’s bad boy would accelerate 0-62 mph (0-100 kph) in a whopping 3.3 seconds and reach a top speed of 147 mph (236 kph).

Up front, it was supported by a pair of 41 mm (1.61 inches) adjustable forks, accompanied by a Pro-Link damper at the rear. In terms of braking, the ruthless F2 was provided with dual 276 mm (10.87 inches) discs and two-piston calipers at the front, along with a single 218 mm disc and one-piston caliper at the back. However, since the heavily customized marvel we’re going to be looking at has very little in common with the original model, we can probably skip the other details.

Wido Veldkamp founded WiMoto several years ago in Elst, a small town in The Netherlands. Besides bike customization, his workshop also specializes in manufacturing top-quality aftermarket components. As you browse their portfolio, you’ll run into a splendid project based on a 1992 Honda CBR600 F2. Out of the whole bunch, this spectacular thing must be my favorite!

After disposing of its body panels, Veldkamp’s crew built a custom subframe that was to accommodate the new saddle and modified tail section. Meanwhile, WiMoto tasked Tijger Leathers with upholstering the gorgeous seat.

Additionally, Veldkamp explains that “the CBR600 F2 had an ugly rectangular swingarm which had to go.” As a result, his team crafted a chromoly tubular swingarm with eccentric chain adjusters to match the desired appearance. The custom swingarm also offered the opportunity to install a fully adjustable Wilbers monoshock.

The following step consisted of tweaking the front forks and reducing their length, to then fit a new set of handlebars that bring about a scrambler aesthetic. This proved to be a challenging process, which demanded a great deal of structural modifications and reshaping. Nonetheless, the final result turned out to be incredibly neat.

WiMoto had the inline-four monstrosity refurbished and blessed it with an upgraded four-into-one exhaust system. Furthermore, CBR600 F2’s powerplant breathes more freely, thanks to a K&N air filter and optimized carburetors.

To top it all off, the workshop disposed of Honda’s stock lighting to make room for a full LED package, including a halo-style headlight and bullet-type turn signals. The stock wheels were retained and dressed in high-performance Heidenau K73 rubber, as well as Motomaster brake discs that improve the bike’s stopping power.

Finally, a bright orange finish covers the fuel tank and front fender, guaranteeing that WiMoto’s delicious two-wheeler will stand out on the road like an orange in a basket full of potatoes!

If you’re loving these folks’ CBR600 F2 makeover as much as I am, I’ll suggest that you head over to the firm’s Facebook page, where you’ll find some of their other masterpieces.