2015 Kawasaki Concurs 14 ABS FIRST LOOK

2015 Kawasaki Concours 14 ABS Candy Lime Green

Somewhat lost in all the hoopla surrounding Kawasaki’s numerous 2015 offerings that included the unveiling of the street-legal H2 version of its stunning H2R supercharged superbike was the new updated Concours 14. The 2015 Connie receives numerous upgrades, including a revised first gear ratio for easier starts from a stop and slow-speed maneuvering, and a new steering stem seal that provides lighter steering at those slow speeds. The rear suspension has been stiffened up slightly for better control when carrying a passenger and luggage, and the electrically adjustable windshield is larger and now has a three-position vent to reduce the low-pressure area behind the screen and decrease fatigue-inducing turbulence on the rider.

Ergonomics were improved with a new seat. The front is narrower with rounded edges to allow riders’ feet to reach the ground more easily, while the contours are sculpted to provide greater support, including the area toward the rear for the passenger which is wider and longer. A new exhaust heat shield deflects heat away from the rider at a stop.

The K-ACT ABS linked brake system settings have been revised to get rid of the annoying inconsistent power when using both front and rear brakes by reducing the rear binder’s effect on the front brakes when it is applied. New master cylinders were also fitted as part of this update. Tire pressure monitoring now is standard with the Concours 14, with heated grips also returning as standard equipment.

Available in Candy Lime Green or Metallic Spark Black, the 2015 Kawasaki Concours 14 will retail for $15,499.

2015 Kawasaki Concours 14 ABS Metallic Spark Black

Kawasaki's press information for the 2015 Concours 14 follows:
The ultimate backroad Supersport Tourer receives enhancements to make it even more comfortable and capable
The 2015 Kawasaki Concours14 ABS is a remarkable machine because its power and poise will be familiar to riders of supersport motorcycles, yet its upright riding position offers far greater comfort than its superbike siblings. Riders can enjoy its high-powered but flexible 1,352cc engine derived from the world class Kawasaki Ninja® ZX™-14R, and for extended sport touring, the motorcycle’s chassis is tuned for comfort and poise.

The 2015 model benefits from a raft of enhancements, including a revised first gear ratio, lighter steering at low speed, stiffer rear suspension for enhanced carrying capacity, a new windshield, revised ABS braking and a new rear luggage base. Having come to define the sport touring motorcycle category, these revisions keep the sophisticated Kawasaki Concours14 ABS at the top of the pile with its ample performance and nimble athleticism, making it equally at home carving canyons as it is traversing interstate highways.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE 2015 KAWASAKI CONCOURS®14 ABS:

• 1,352cc supersport engine derived from Ninja ZX-14R but tuned for long journeys
• NEW First gear ratio for easier starts from a standstill and low-speed maneuvering
• NEW Steering stem seal provides lighter steering at low speeds
• NEW Stiffer rear suspension settings for enhanced control and carrying ability
• NEW Sculpted seat for improved comfort (optional Touring Seat available)
• NEW Electrically adjustable windshield with three-position vent
• NEW Exhaust heat shield improves rider comfort when stationary
• NEW Revised ABS settings to reduce the linked braking effect
• NEW Silver bezels on instrumentation

The 2015 Kawasaki Concours14 ABS is about more than just power. The four-cylinder engine boasts Variable Valve Timing (VVT) for economy and fluid responses, providing the kind of torque that makes relaxed, sixth-gear overtaking maneuvers par for the course.

Kawasaki’s supersport expertise means the Concours14 ABS motorcycle also has a suite of technology from the latest K-ACT ABS brakes to KTRC traction control and a Fuel Economy Assistance Mode to help the rider optimize his extended time in the saddle. For convenience it also has a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) as well as KIPASS keyless starting technology.

For 2015, the Kawasaki Concours14 ABS has been further enhanced with a series of key refinements. Kawasaki kept all of the standout performance, comfort and convenience items that already make the Concours14 ABS so popular, and have added some strategic upgrades. These include a revised first gear ratio to make it easier to pull away from a standstill. It also has revised catalysers for even cleaner emissions, as well as ECU updates to suit the changes to the transmission and cats. There is also a new seat that is narrower at the front to help the rider reach the ground more easily. 

The seat is sculpted at the front for improved comfort, while at the rear, the seat is flatter and longer for the passenger. The adjustable rear suspension was stiffened on the initial preload setting to maintain the motorcycle’s legendary stability when carrying a passenger and full luggage.

Other updates to the 2015 Kawasaki Concours14 ABS include refinements to the ABS system, which reduces the linked effect on the front brake when the rear brake is applied. There is also a new steering stem seal, which helps to reduce steering effort at slower speeds. And once speeds climb, the new windshield reduces the aerodynamic load on the rider with its integrated, adjustable vent.

ALL-DAY COMFORT

The 2015 Kawasaki Concours14 ABS starts with a highly capable platform and adds several key enhancements, such as the new seat that has rounded edges to make it easier for riders to reach the ground. The seat is also sculpted to offer greater support but is wider and longer towards the rear to give the passenger a better experience. Other seat upgrades include a slip-resistant cover and double-stitched detailing to increase its visual appeal.

Owners who wish to use the 2015 Kawasaki Concours14 ABS for long distance touring will be pleased to hear that Kawasaki Genuine Accessories also offers an optional touring seat, which will provide enhanced comfort for extended journeys and is more resistant to heat accumulation when exposed to the sun – this is the material’s first application in the motorcycle industry and should make the seat cooler after the bike has been sitting in the sun.

The handlebar is more upright and closer to the rider than the Ninja ZX-14R. This reinforces its touring comfort yet is still more sporty than traditional sports touring motorcycles.

Additional new comfort features include a two-position adjustable vent on the electrically raised windshield. This windshield improves the airflow around the rider and reduces the buffeting effect, since the vent removes the low-pressure zone in the cockpit.

The passenger will appreciate the new rubber-padded footpegs that are designed to reduce vibrations. Additionally, a new heat shield has been designed to deflect engine heat away from the rider when he comes to a stop, helping to maintain comfort.

Finally, the stiffer rear suspension on the 2015 Kawasaki Concours14 ABS helps it remain one of the most compliant sports-oriented touring bikes available. The stiffer setting enhances the ride while carrying a passenger and full saddlebags. What’s more, the rear suspension has a remote preload adjuster that allows the rider to tune the handling to their individual preference, without using any tools. It can also be adjusted to compensate for the addition of a passenger and full saddlebags.

POWERTRAIN
The heart of the Concours14 ABS supersport touring package is its amazing and sophisticated 1,352cc DOHC inline-four powerplant. Although it is based on the same engine as the world-class Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14R, in this application it has been tuned for excellent low- and mid-range power. In addition to the exhilarating low-end torque, it delivers a top-end rush that will have riders nipping at the heels of sportbike riders when the need arises.

A key element of its tremendous power band is the Variable Valve Timing (VVT), which alters the camshaft valve timing according to parameters such as RPM and engine load. The result is the enhanced low- and mid-range power without sacrificing that top-end shove.

Advanced fuel injection, ram-air induction and decades of experience building the world’s most potent supersport engines has created a simply astonishing powerplant, one that makes the 2015 Concours14 ABS a force to be reckoned with in the sport-touring segment. And yet its advanced electronics mean the rider can use the Fuel Economy Assistance Mode to prioritize fuel savings, offering a significant increase in fuel economy and allowing the rider to travel farther on each tank of fuel.

CHASSIS
The 2015 Kawasaki Concours14 ABS uses a stiff monocoque frame that provides excellent handling characteristics and a high degree of rider feedback. Cradling the engine from the top, the compact structure keeps the motorcycle narrow, helping it to be more nimble than its competitors.Kawasaki’s Superbike World Championship-winning expertise can be seen throughout the bike, particularly in areas such as the 43mm, inverted front forks and radial-mounted brakes. At the rear, there is an almost maintenance-free, four-link Tetra-Lever suspension system, which then reduces the shaft drive squatting and lifting effect when the rider gets on or off the power. The suspension uses stepless rebound damping adjustment and has a remote spring preload adjuster that doesn’t require any tools to tune to the rider’s preference or compensate for the weight of a passenger and luggage.

The braking system retains its 310mm petal-style front rotors with four-piston calipers, as well as the 270mm petal-style rear rotor, single-piston caliper. New for the 2015 model year the Kawasaki Advanced Coactive-braking Technology (K-ACT) ABS system has revised master cylinders and a new ABS module. The system links the front and rear brakes for the most effective brake force distribution and the revisions reduced the linked effect on the front brake when the rear brake is applied. This has the effect of making the braking feel more natural during low-speed maneuvers such as a U-turn. The small, lightweight ABS ECU also allows the rider to choose one of two ABS modes to suit riding conditions or rider preference.

In Standard Mode the linked effect is reduced at initial lever stroke for a natural sensation when sport riding. In the High Combined Mode, there is a more pronounced linking effect from the beginning of the lever pull, making it ideally suited for touring and two-up highway use.

The rider also benefits from the inclusion of Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC), which uses the ABS sensors to detect wheel speed. Once wheelspin is detected, the system helps the rear tire traction.

New for the 2015 Kawasaki Concours14 ABS is a revised first gear ratio, which makes it easier to start the motorcycle from a standstill and to maneuver at low speeds. There is also a new low-friction steering stem seal, which contributes to lighter steering at low speeds, making the bike easier to maneuver in tight spaces.

STYLING & CONVENIENCE
The styling of the 2015 Kawasaki Concours14 ABS reflects its nature as a comfortable sport touring motorcycle with sportbike DNA. While it boasts an aggressive cowling and sporty fairing design, it has a large, electrically adjusted windshield with a three-position vent. In conjunction with the front cowling, these parts help protect the rider and passenger from the elements, reducing fatigue on long rides.

For 2015, the Concours14 ABS will be available in a choice of Candy Lime Green or Metallic Spark Black, reflecting its sporty and sophisticated character.

The standard KQR™ (Kawasaki Quick Release) Hard Saddlebags are color-matched to the bodywork and can be removed and fitted in a matter of seconds thanks to the ingenious mounting system. The bags are locked with Kawasaki’s One Key system. This allows them to be locked with the bike’s ignition key, and the same applies to the optional Kawasaki Genuine Accessories color-matched KQR 47-liter Top Case.

Another interesting technology involving the Kawasaki ignition key is KIPASS (Kawasaki Intelligent Proximity Activation Start System). It’s basically a smart key system that allows a rider to keep the electronic key in their pocket, while leaving the ignition key in the motorcycle at all times. The key sends out a signal to the KIPASS ECU, and when in range, the ignition key is turned to the “On” position. No more digging in pockets for the ignition key with riding gloves on. The ignition key also allows access to the KQR Hard Saddlebags.

For the rider’s convenience, there is a fairing storage box, allowing the rider to stow small items. Additionally, there is a DC power socket to charge smartphones or navigation devices while on the move. The 2015 Kawasaki Concours14 ABS continues to have standard heated grips, which provide comfort and warmth even in harsh conditions.

New for 2015 are stainless steel bezels around the main instrument dials. These add an extra dose of class to the already well-appointed instrumentation. There is also a resin tank pad that was previously available as an accessory but is now standard equipment. It is designed to help prevent wear and scratches to the fuel tank.

ACCESSORIES
A range of optional Kawasaki Genuine Accessories are available at authorized Kawasaki dealers. These include a 47L top case with optional backrest pad, tank bag, touring seat, protective cover and more.

Key Features

• NEW Master cylinder and ABS module for Kawasaki Advanced Coactive-braking Technology (K-ACT) ABS brakes, with reduced link effect on the front brake when the rear brake is applied
• NEW First gear ratio for easier starting from a standstill and low-speed maneuvers
• NEW Steering stem seal provides lighter steering at low speeds
• NEW Stiffer rear suspension settings for enhanced carrying ability
• NEW Sculpted seat for improved comfort and easier reach to the ground (optional Touring Seat available)
• NEW Windshield with adjustable vent and electric height adjustment
• NEW Exhaust heat shield improves rider comfort when stationary
• NEW Silver bezels on instrumentation
• 1,352cc inline-four with variable valve timing based on the Ninja® ZX™-14R engine, provides smooth power across a wide rev range
• Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC) reduces engine output when wheelspin is detected, helping rear tire traction
• Aluminum monocoque frame is lightweight, narrow and rigid
• Tetra-Lever rear suspension offsets the lifting and squatting tendencies of shaft drive when the rider comes on and off the power
• Fuel Economy Assistance Mode prioritizes fuel savings, for a significant mileage boost
• Standard heated grips help provide comfort even in harsh conditions
• Convenient Kawasaki Intelligent Proximity Activation Starting System (KIPASS) allows the rider to keep the ignition key in the bike and an electronic fob in his to start the motorcycle
• Includes a 36 month limited factory warranty that can be supplemented with up to an additional 36 months of Kawasaki Protection Plus. That’s a total of up to an amazing SIX YEARS of coverage!

1,352cc Four-cylinder, DOHC Engine with Variable Valve Timing (VVT)

• Tuned to provide smooth power across an extremely wide rev range, the Concours14 ABS has power to spare
• Variable Valve Timing improves the engine’s flexibility and efficiency by altering camshaft profiles to boost low-end and mid-range torque without sacrificing top-end power
• Its compact and narrow engine design minimizes weight for maximum handling and performance
• Chrome composite-plated aluminum cylinder bores are lightweight, durable and quickly carry heat away from the combustion chamber and piston for supreme durability under high loads

Gear-driven Dual Engine Balancers

• Already in perfect primary balance, the Concours14’s inline four-cylinder engine uses dual secondary balancers to virtually eliminate unwanted vibrations for enhanced rider comfort

Ram Air Induction

• Ram air ducts provide a straight path for cool, high-pressure air to enter the air box for maximum intake efficiency and power

Digital Fuel Injection (DFI®)

• A computer feeds the engine exactly the amount of fuel it needs for cleaner emissions and maximum fuel economy
• A 32-bit ECU works with the dual throttle-valve system to further enhance throttle response and control

Digital Ignition

• Four individual spark plug-mounted ignition coils fire each spark plug independently to achieve optimum timing
• An idle speed control system included in the ECU provides easy starting and warm-up

KTRC Traction Control

• Kawasaki’s Traction Control (KTRC) system reduces engine output when wheelspin is detected, helping rear tire traction
• Advanced, three-way control (airflow, ignition timing, fuel delivery) gives KTRC smooth operation and natural feel
• KTRC adds no weight, since it uses the existing ECU and ABS sensors

Brakes

• NEW Brake master cylinders
• Dual floating 310mm petal-style front rotors with four-piston calipers and ABS
• Single 270mm petal-style rear rotor, single-piston caliper, ABS
• Radial design uses mounting points at the top and bottom of the caliper, with mounting bolts inserted through the rear of the caliper for increased rigidity and optimum braking feel
• Separate brake pads for each caliper piston provide increased cooling efficiency and more consistent brake feel under extreme conditions
• Petal-style front and rear brake rotors provide enhanced cooling and great warp-resistance
• Radial-pump front brake master cylinder improves brake performance and lever feel

Second Generation K-ACT ABS

• NEW Revised ABS settings to reduce linked braking effect
• Second generation K-ACT (Kawasaki Advanced Coactive-braking Technology) ABS links front and rear brakes for most effective front-rear brake force distribution
• Small and lightweight K-ACT ABS unit with a high-spec ECU is capable of detailed calculations for ultra-smooth operation
• The rider can choose one of two modes to suit riding situation or rider preference: The linked effect from front brake lever actuation is largely the same in both modes, but the linked effect when actuating the rear brake pedal is quite different
• In Standard Mode, the linked effect is reduced at initial pedal stroke for natural sensation when sport riding
• In High Combined Mode, there’s a more pronounced linked effect from the beginning of the pedal stroke – ideal for touring and two-up highway use

Fuel Economy Assistance Mode

• Activating Fuel Economy Assistance Mode changes the engine to a more economy-oriented map, which prioritizes fuel economy for a significant MPG boost
• Fuel Economy Assistance works in any gear, provided the engine is below 6000rpm, the throttle opening less than 30 percent, and speed less than 80mph

KIPASS Keyless Ignition System

• The Concours14 ABS supersport tourer comes with one key fob (kept in a pocket) and a small card-type key for emergency/backup use
• The card-type key includes an immobilizer function (but no remote activation) and is highly portable, measuring just 1.2 x 1.6 x 0.25 inch

Radial Pump Clutch Master Cylinder

• A hydraulic radial pump clutch master cylinder delivers smooth, precise clutch engagement

Monocoque Aluminum Frame

• Hollow aluminum box sections arch over the engine from the steering head to the swingarm pivot for a narrow, rigid and very light frame
• The rigidly mounted engine acts as a stressed frame member to increase the frame’s torsional rigidity while reducing weight
• Forward engine positioning, wheelbase length and front/rear weight balance were carefully designed to achieve high-speed stability and responsive handling

Suspension

• NEW Stiffer rear suspension with remote preload adjuster that doesn’t require any tools to tune to the rider’s preference or compensate for the weight of a passenger and luggage
• 43mm inverted, telescopic front fork with adjustable rebound damping and spring preload. There is 4.4” of front wheel travel
• Four-link Tetra-Lever rear suspension reduces shaft drive effect by limiting squat and lift when power is applied or the throttle is shut
• Rear suspension has stepless rebound damping adjustment and remote spring preload adjuster. There is 5.4” of rear wheel travel

Tetra-Lever Shaft Drive

• Unique four-link design offsets lifting and squatting tendencies of shaft drive when the throttle is opened and closed, significantly reduces driveline lash during sport riding, and provides smooth acceleration when exploiting the engine’s incredible power output
• Virtually maintenance-free, the Tetra-Lever system dramatically reduces routine maintenance requirements

Plenty of Storage

• Concours14 ABS has standard KQR™ (Kawasaki Quick Release) Hard Saddlebags. These hold a large volume of gear and are easily detachable. They are also water-resistant and easily hold a full-face helmet on each side
• The cases are mounted as close as possible to the bike’s centerline and center of gravity, with lightweight construction that minimizes their influence on handling
• A lightweight rear carrier is designed to be compatible with a Kawasaki Genuine Accessories Top Case
• An all-purpose 40-watt DC accessory socket is mounted on the dash, providing convenient access to power for personal electronics

Full Instrumentation

• NEW Silver bezels around the main instruments
• Easy-to-read speedometer and tachometer, multi-function LCD digital display including an odometer, two trip meters, fuel gauge, gear position indicator, tire pressure indicator and a clock are just a partial listing of the 2014 Concours14’s display capabilities
• Controller Area Network (CAN) interface between the gauges uses fewer wires and allows a greater volume of information to be exchanged than in traditional instrument panels
• Other key instrument functions include the K-ACT mode indicator, Economical Riding Indicator, and Fuel Economy Assistance Mode mark
• Multi-function display includes outside air temperature, whose sensor is located at the intake duct (the farthest point from the engine)
• The Mode Select button on the front of the left grip lets the rider change LCD modes adjacent to the grip, toggling through average fuel consumption, instant fuel consumption, remaining range, tire pressure, battery voltage and outside temperature

Comfort & Touring Potential

• NEW TPMS sensors to warn of tire deflation
• NEW Tank pad to protect the paintwork from clothing scratches
• NEW Cushioned passenger footpegs
• NEW Larger electrically adjustable windscreen with a three-position vent reduces upper-body turbulence to reduce rider fatigue
• Aggressive fairing with specially designed venting facilitates heat dissipation, greatly reducing the amount of hot air transmitted to the rider
• When the power is turned off, the windscreen goes to its lowest position. When the power is turned back on, the windscreen’s memory function returns it to the selected preset position
• Passages from windscreen slits direct air through the inner fairing to vents next to the instrument panel; alleviating the lower pressure helps prevent turbulence around the rider’s head
• An exhaust pipe guard attached to the upper part of the exhaust mid-pipe helps protect the rider from heat when stopped
• Stepless adjustable grip heaters are standard, with an easy-to-reach switch located in front of a lockable storage case on the inner left fairing panel
• This lockable storage case in the left fairing inner panel uses an electromagnetic lock to prevent entry when the engine is off
• Mirrors are positioned to increase rear visibility and provide optimal hand protection from the wind
• Attachment hooks at the front of the tank facilitate securing a tank bag
• 5.8-gallon fuel tank provides long-range touring capability

Quality Fit and Finish & Design

• Top-shelf fit and finish results in a high quality and luxurious feel
• Stylish muffler end cap gives the silencer a compact appearance

Kawasaki Genuine Accessories

• 47-liter top case, mounts to the standard rear luggage rack using a carrier plate, is color-matched to the bodywork and uses Kawasaki’s One Key system
• A tank bag can be mounted to the fuel tank using a secure mounting system, and easily removed for portability
• The touring seat provides extra comfort on extended rides and has a heat-resistant cover
• A cover protects the motorcycle when parked or stored for extended periods

Kawasaki H2R ON DYNO 296 HP

As you guys wanted here is the KAWASAKI H2R ON DYNO . ENJOY

2015 MV AUGUSTA STRADALE 800 FIRST LOOK

MV Agusta revealed at EICMA the new Stradale 800 model, which is "the right bike every time, whatever the road," according to press material. The new Stradale is heavily based on the Rivale and feature's MV's three-cylinder 800 engine; the chassis retains the Rivale's long-travel suspension but has an extended wheelbase (by 30mm), a 10mm-lower seat height and a more elaborate windscreen. Power has been reduced from the Rivale to 115 hp, while fuel capacity has been increased to 4.2 gallons.

The new Stradale 800 combines the MV Agusta experience on various types of models to offer an original approach to riding. The ALS steel trellis frame is completed, in the single-sided swingarm pivot area, with lightweight aluminium alloy plates. To ensure the Stradale 800 keeps going no matter what the obstacle, great attention has gone into the design of the suspension: the upside-down Marzocchi fork - adjustable in compression, rebound and spring pre-load - guarantees 150 mm of travel; the single-sided swingarm, connected to the fully adjustable monoshock, provides 150 mm of travel. The chassis has been developed specifically for the Stradale 800.. The 1,460 mm wheelbase has been extended by 30 mm; consequently, the single-sided swingarm is also longer, improving traction. The riding position is completely new: the 870 mm high seat (-10 mm) makes the bike easier to handle and improves the rider's stance on the vehicle to provide enhanced control and comfort. In fact, the front end has been equipped with a protective Plexiglas screen (featuring on-the-go onehanded adjustment) that merges perfectly with the unique Stradale 800 style.

The fuel tank is now larger: its 16 litres (+ 4 litres of reserve), together with outstanding thermodynamic engine performance, ensure you'll put in plenty of miles between refuelling stops. The hydraulic clutch makes gear shifts fluid and even. For completely carefree riding. The standard equipment includes two side panniers: perfectly in keeping with the Stradale 800 style, they also feature built-in turn indicators. This solution, which required specific type approval, gives an immediate advantage: even from behind, the entire width of the bike is clearly visible, exactly as it is from the front and side, where turn indicators on the hand guards serve the same purpose.

The 798 cc three cylinder in-line engine was specially developed for this model: the maximum power and torque ratings, 115 hp at 11,000 rpm and 78.5 Nm at 9,000 rpm respectively, only partially describe a power unit that combines elasticity with outstanding acceleration. Exclusive solutions abound, such as the counter-rotating crankshaft, which reduces inertia during directional changes and thus makes for a more agile, gratifying ride, the bike also has an integrated cooling and oil circuit to keep it compact, lightweight and appealing.

Electronic MVICS (Motor & Vehicle Integrated Control System) control is comprehensive: from the Ride By Wire accelerator to the Mikuni throttle bodies, from knock control to the availability of 4 engine maps. These latter features offer specific logic and dedicated power-torque curves: the Sport map provides 115 hp, maximising performance and generating the classic buzz typical of any true MV Agusta. The Normal map offers 90 hp of power and a smoother throttle response, ideal for short range touring and commuting. Rain means safety first and foremost: The Stradale 800 puts the torque and power down on the tarmac as progressively as possible. The as-standard ABS has a Bosch 9 Plus unit equipped with RLM (Rear wheel Lift-up Mitigation): this technology prevents the rear wheel from lifting off the ground, effectively preventing one of the most dangerous riding situations. Also as standard is the EAS 2.0, the most complete quickshifter on the market: this provides the rider with electronic assistance and therefore eliminates the need to operate the clutch when up and downshifting. Comfort and sports performance, back together again.

Price: €13,990 Every country could have a price variation due to local import duties and taxes. Colour schemes: Red/Silver, Pearl White/Aviation Grey, Bronze/Pearl White

2014 Honda CBR1000RR SP $16,699

                                     

It was a bit of surprise to see the CBR1000RR SP unveiled for 2014 and for a number of reasons. First, the SP isn’t really a homologation special; total production will number 5,000 units worldwide, far more than the mandated 1,500 minimum, and it doesn’t feature much of anything that will be of real use to professional race teams (especially a ride-by-wire throttle system, which luckily for the World Superbike PATA Honda team is allowed to be retro-fitted). And second, the SP features Öhlins suspension and Brembo brakes; this is a break from Honda tradition that has always been to use Showa suspension and Nissin brake exclusively (since those companies are owned by Honda).

The first thing you’ll notice when throwing a leg over the new CBR is the revised ergos. The footpegs are moved 10mm, and the clip-on bars are 34mm wider, spread out 5 degrees more,and angled 5 degrees lower for a more aggressive riding position. These might seem like small numbers, but they make a huge difference in how the latest Honda feels; the footpegs almost feel like accessory rearsets compared to the previous-generation model.

 The CBR SP just felt more at home on the track, with the more aggressive riding posture putting your body in a more natural position to make the forceful steering inputs required at that venue’s speeds.Honda claims the seat on the SP is firmer than the standard model for better feedback, but to tell you the truth, we didn’t notice that much of a difference. 

The windscreen on both 2014 CBRs is also slightly taller for marginally improved wind protection. Everything else in both CBR cockpits is the same as last year’s version, with the exception of the aluminum top triple clamp and Öhlins fork of the SP.

Unlike most other inline-fours, the CBR won’t fall flat on its face if you happen to let the revs drop to 5,000 rpm—it will happily pull through quickly and get into the meat of its powerband once past 7,000 rpm. Get it right, and the Honda simply digs in and drives hard enough to stay with most anything off the corners—despite a lack of traction control.

The bigger issue is that American Honda will be bringing only a small number of the CBR SPs into the States (judging by the Honda dealer talk around the US, we’re guessing only several hundred at most), and all of the units have already been snapped up by the dealers. If you’ve got $16,699 burning a hole in your pocket, you’d better get down to your local Honda dealer

2015 YAMAHA FJ-09 FIRST LOOK

Yamaha's new Sport Touring model gets traction control and adjustable riding position

Yamaha has found a second home for the hugely entertaining 847cc triple cylinder, cross-plane crank engine that was originally introduced in the FZ-09. The new model is referred to as an FJ-09, and slots into the Sport Touring category with its more upright riding position, improved aerodynamics, and added emphasis on long-distance riding. The FJ-09 will be available as early as November 2014 and retail for just $10,490.

While the FJ-09’s three-cylinder engine and aluminum main frame are exactly as they are on the FZ-09, there are a number of other changes to go with the updated design brief. To start, there’s a larger seat which is also adjustable between two heights (33.3 or 33.9 inches), and windscreen that’s adjustable between three heights. A new front cowling with layered design provides wind protection and “increased long distance riding comfort,” Yamaha says, while hand guards provide some protection in adverse conditions. Lastly, The FJ-09’s aluminum handlebar can be adjusted forward or rearward by reversing the position of the mounting brackets.

 All information for the FJ-09’s various electronic systems, plus speed, rpm, and trip information, is displayed via a new multi-screen LCD display.

Genuine accessories include side cases that will mount via integrated mounting points on the rear frame, heated grips, and more. Colors include Matte Grey, Lave Red, and Race Blue.

The 2015 Lamborghini Motorcycle Design

Lamborghini has been doing a lot to keep the company standing out from the various competitors and with the financial backing of Audi they can do so. From the crazy concept vehicles like the Urus and Egoista it is easy to see that the designers are trying new things. With Ferrari and Ducati now under the same ownership of Fiat we can see why Lamborghini would want to show a little skill in the two-wheel department as well. Fact is that there is no Lambo bike to be had with the actual bull badges placed upon it but this Lamborghini motorcycle looker could have fooled us if you simply placed an Armani suit wearer next to it and named it Narcissismo.

 There is no crazy V12 Italian Lamborghini Motorcycle to be shown here but rather a 1000cc Inline 4-cylinder built by a bunch of borscht soup eating ruskies. The Chak Motors Company is the actual manufacturer behind this looker but you can tell that with the aggressive styling, there is a lot to be said about the unique motorbike. Named the Mullet… I mean Molot is actually an ABS Honda CBR 1000 with a Lamborghini Bike covering. Now the company says that the bike is “heavily modified” and I can’t really blame them because if I think about Russian Motorcycles then first thing that comes to mind is the URAL 2WD with a sidecar and that is like the AK-47 of bikes. It is built for quantity and has some very sloppy characteristics. So might as well let a company like Honda that has invested millions of dollars and man hours into research and development do the base manufacturing and then take the designs of say a “Lamborghini Motorcycle” and put them together and you get a bike that looks pretty 

Mv Agusta Reveals Updates to three cylinder models 2015

MV Agusta has announced more of its 2015 model lineup. In addition to the Brutale 800 RR and Brutale 800 Dragster RR introduced earlier, the Brutale 675, Brutale 800, F3 675, F3 800 and Brutale 800 Dragster all return for 2015. Updates include LED tail lights for all models, a more comfortable seat on the Brutale 800, and a further refined MVICS (Motor &Vehicle Integrated Control System) electronic management system. ABS is now standard on all the three-cylinder models.

MV Agusta's press release on the new models follows. For a full listing of the 2015 MV Agusta models released to date along with images of the color options for each model, refer to the2015 MV Agusta sportbike models.

MV AGUSTA THREE-CYLINDER PLATFORM MODEL YEAR 2015

For 2015 the three-cylinder range is back with its exclusive characteristics, further refined after constant development and testing carried out by MV Agusta testers. The new models maintain their leadership in terms of style and functionality thanks to a few new details, which highlight the extreme attention to aesthetics, safety and comfort. The taillight is LED on all the models now, characterised by a brand new light diffusion system to increase passive safety and make the rear end even more attractive. On the Brutale 800 the seat has been redesigned to increase comfort, further improving the bike's unique design.