Wednesday, June 3, 2009

Kawasaki Concours 14

Already our favorite liter bike of 2008, the CBR1000RR looks even better minus its handsome fairing. All we’d add would be a sheet metal undertray for the seat unit, some foam to sit on and some so-small-you-can’t-see-them LED lights. Bonus points for leaving the stock exhaust on; quiet is the new loud.
I'm trying to figure out a good way to style my Daytona 600 into a modern day cafe-fighter. SO far I've moved the indicators to the frame where a fairing mount point was and removed all but the top fairing. This took some re-wiring. My first thought was to get speed four lights and intake in the hopes that everything would bolt right on(the two bikes share the same frame and engine). But now that I've realized that triumph overprices it's parts horrendously (108 bucks for one light!!!)I think it would be better if I just get a nice big seven inch single headlight, mounting brackets for the light and instruments, bar-end mirror and no air intake. I hope the lake of plumbing doesn't mess up my engine's performance. I saw another dude with a Naked Daytona 600 with no intake other than the frame holes...so I guess it works out.

Ducati Desmosedici RR


Strip the carbon fiber fairing off Ducati’s MotoGP replica and you’re left with a bike that exudes mechanical aggression, not race pedigree. Ride this to a bar and no one’s going to mistake you for a balding stockbroker living out a mid-life crisis. It’s easy too; the fairing will bolt right off; all the necessary lights and oily bits stay attached. We’d add some crash damage and worn out slicks to complete the look.

Think the 2009 Yamaha VMAX is an over styled, overweight let down? Here’s the performance cruiser for you. A small single seat unit might be a worthwhile addition, as would some Confederate Hellcat headlights

stripped sportsbikes as the new café racers


Yesterday’s Ducati Monstersedici RR got us thinking. While we liked the idea of a naked bike powered by a 200bhp MotoGP-inspired v4, the highly advanced engine didn’t look at home in the Monster’s svelte lines. In fact, contemporary roadsters like the Monster, Honda 919, Triumph Street Triple and Yamaha FZ6 all look a little over-styled and limp wristed next to the sportsbikes that donated their engines. What’s missing is a strong technical element to the look, something that isn’t provided by the sharply creased plastic and weird exhaust cans of bikes like the Kawasaki Z1000 and Suzuki B-King. That look is surprisingly easy to achieve. Strip the fairing from most current sportsbikes and what you’re left with is a perfectly functional motorcycle, just one whose style is provided by its mechanical components, not plastics. Motorcycle design’s mantra has always been form follows function, it should be: function is form. Click through to see the three bikes we think are best suited to this treatment

superhawk


honda-cbr600f4i


Honda CBR600F4i SpecificationsManufacturer: Honda MSR: $8199 Model ID: CBR600F4i Model Year: 2003 Type: Honda Sport Bike Emissions: California version meets CARB 2004 emissions standards. Available Colors: Metallic Silver/Black, Metallic Silver/Red Honda CBR600F4i Engine:Engine Type: 599cc liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder Bore and Stroke: 67.0mm x 42.5mm Compression Ratio: 12.0:1 Valve Train: DOHC; four valves per cylinder Carburetion: Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) with automatic choke Ignition: Computer-controlled digital transistorized with three-dimensional mapping Honda CBR600F4i Drive Train:Transmission: Close-ratio six-speed Final Drive: #525 O-ring-sealed chain Honda CBR600F4i Suspension:Front Suspension: 43mm HMAS cartridge fork with spring-preload, rebound and compression-damping adjustability; 4.7-inch travel Rear Suspension: Pro-Link HMAS single shock with spring-preload, rebound and compression-damping adjustability; 4.7-inch travel Honda CBR600F4i Brakes:Front Brakes: Dual 296mm discs with four-piston calipers Rear Brake: Single 220mm disc Front Tire: 120/70ZR-17 radial Rear Tire: 180/55ZR-17 radial Honda CBR600F4i Dimensions:Rake: 24 degreesTrail: 96.0mm (3.8 inches) Wheelbase: 54.5 inchesSeat Height: 31.7 inchesDry Weight: 370 poundsFuel Capacity: 4.8 gallons

KawasakiZZR1400


13-way Compression damping. 11-way Rebound damping. Fully adjustable Spring preload.Suspension, rear Bottom-Link Uni-Trak with gas-charged shock. Stepless Compression damping. Stepless Rebound damping. Fully adjustable Spring preload.BRAKES Brakes, front Dual semi-floating 310 mm petal discsDual radial-mount, opposed 4-piston, 4-padBrakes, rear Single 250 mm petal discOpposed, twin-pistonDIMENSIONS Dimensions (L x W x H) 2,170 mm x 760 mm x 1,170 mmWheelbase 1,460 mmGround Clearance 125 mmSeat height 800 mmDry weight 220 kg (ZX1400C) / 224 kg (ZX1400D)Fuel capacity 22 litresPERFORMANCE Maximum power 142 kW {193 PS} / 9,500 rpm (EUR/USA/CAN/AUS)140 kW {190 PS} / 9,000rpm (MYS)78.2 kW {106 PS} / 8,000rpm (FRA)Maximum power with RAM Air 149.5 kW {203 PS} / 9,500 rpm (EUR/USA/CAN/AUS)147.1 kW {200 PS} / 9,000 rpm (MYS)Maximum torque 154 N·m {15.7 kgf·m} / 7,500 rpm (EUR/USA/CAN/AUS/MYS)119 N·m {12.1 kgf·m} / 4,500 rpm (FRA)Kawasaki press release

KawasakiZZR14002008rev

White faces make them easy to read.* Multi-function LCD digital display includes a fuel gauge, gear position indicator, dual trip meters, odometer and clock.* Use of CAN interface between the meter and the ECU reduces the number of cables and allows a greater volume of information (e.g. fuel consumption) to be exchanged.SpecificationsENGINE Engine type Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke In-Line FourDisplacement 1,352 cm³Bore x stroke 84 x 61 mmCompression ratio 12.0:1Valve/Induction system DOHC, 16 valvesFuel system Fuel injection: ø44 mm x 4 (Mikuni)Ignition DigitalDRIVETRAIN Transmission 6-speed, returnFinal Drive Sealed ChainPrimary reduction ratio 1.556 (84/54)Gear ratios: 1st 2.625 (42/16)Gear ratios: 2nd 1.947 (37/19)Gear ratios: 3rd 1.545 (34/22)Gear ratios: 4th 1.333 (32/24)Gear ratios: 5th 1.154 (30/26)Gear ratios: 6th 1.036 (29/28)Final reduction ratio 2.412 (41/17)Clutch Wet multi-disc, manualFRAME Frame type Monocoque, aluminiumWheel travel, front 117 mmWheel travel, rear 122 mmTyre, front 120/70ZR17M/C (58W)Tyre, rear 190/50ZR17M/C (73W)Rake/Trail 23° / 94 mmSteering angle, left / right 30° / 30°SUSPENSION Suspension, front 43 mm inverted fork with top-out springs.

KawasakiZZR14002008rev


Main specifications * In addition to the already existing honeycomb catalysers (one in each silencer), a third honeycomb catalyser was added in the collector.* European models also feature an O2 sensor that measures oxygen density in the exhaust and gives feedback to the ECU. The ECU adjusts the volume of fuel being introduced by the fineatomising injectors, making the fuel-air mixture leaner or richer as necessary, to ensure optimal combustion for clean emissions.* In order to be able to take into account feedback from the O2 sensor, the ECU is new.* The cylinder head and cylinder head cover have larger secondary air ports (increased approximately 20%), making it easier to get more air into the exhaust system.* The Air Switching Valve (ASV) can also handle approximately 5% more air.Fine-tuned power characteristics After ensuring Euro-III regulations were met, changes to the engine ensured the best balance for improved power characteristics and meeting noise regulations.

2008-honda-cb1000R-xess

Vito Cicchetti (General Manager, Honda Italy) proposed the initial concept and positioning, while Fausto Giancristofaro sought out suppliers of the most passionate parts and coordinated the realisation of the special model’s.The many parts that have been added or changed include: a special Showa-signed and anodized massive front fork, Hanabira front discs with radial-mounted front callipers, a titanium twin-exhaust, lighter and race-ready footpegs, an aggressive red transmission chain, reversed levers, a velvet seat and several carbon fibre elements (such as the front mudguard, front light cowl, rear hugger, side covers and rear seat cowl). The concept, drawings and development of the mass production model were established by R&D headquarters in Roma with the support of the Italian Sales Division The original CB1000R got the impressive ex-Fireblade inline-4 engine, a underslung exhaust and a nice hybrid aluminium swingarm. Honda's goal with the XESS is to allow CB1000R customers to shine out in the crowd (even more!) and give them really breathtaking added value. It is similar to their initiative with the Hornet 600 in early 2006. It’s clear that Naked customers like to customise their bikes, so they decided to sow the seeds of imagination with a reality model.The XESS project was carried out by a local workgroup in Italy.

BMW was taunting us since the 24 hours of Le Mans and the race version of the HP2 Sport.


The key engine data are very respectable: the engine achieves more than 96 kW/128 bhp at 8750 min–1 compared with the significantly modified engine of the BMW R 1200 S. The maximum torque lies at 115 Nm at 6000 min–1, the highest revs of the engine reaches a peak value at 9500 min–1. Technically, the BMW HP2 Sport is based on the BMW R 1200 S.
Customised to meet the requirements of the ambitious sports rider down to the last detail, the BMW HP2 Sport is however a completely independent and absolutely exceptional motorcycle. Many detailed solutions are based on the experiences gained in long-distance races. The most striking difference of the BMW HP2 Sport from the endurance racing Boxer is the brand new cylinder heads: Each of the double overhead camshafts (DOHC) uses a drag lever to actuate the valves that are larger than in the BMW R 1200 S.
Further modifications such as the flow-optimised intake and outlet, new forged pistons and adapted connecting rod help the engine to achieve the necessary higher output compared to the basic engine. The new stainless steel exhaust system is placed below the engine for the first time. This keeps the construction of the lower area of the motorcycle extremely slim, enabling great freedom of movement for the familiar ‘hanging off’ riding position.
EngineCapacity 1170cm3Bore/stroke 101/73mmMax output >96/128 kW/bhpmax torque 115Nm at 8,750 RpmConfigurationBoxerNo of cylinders 2Compression ratio/fuel grade12.5/S PlusValves/gas cycle DOHC (double overhead camshaft) with drag leverValves per cylinder 4Ø Intake/outlet 39/33 mmThrottle butterffly dia 52 mmFuel supply managementElectrical System BMS-KAlternator 480WBattery 12/12 V/Ah, maintenance-freeHeadlight 2 x H 7/55WStarter 1.2 kW

MotoGuzziBellagio


(ouch!)Full road test soon on Motocyclists-Online...MOTO GUZZI BELLAGIO. Technical DataEngine : Four-stroke V 90 twinCooling Air cooledCapacity 935.6 ccBore and stroke 95 x 66 mmCompression ratio 10Timing 2 valves per cylinder commanded by light alloy cam acting on rocker arm and mechanical tappetsIntake valve opening 24 ° before upper TDC.Intake valve closing 52 ° after lower TDC.Exhaust valve opening 54 ° before lower TDC.Exhaust valve closing 22 ° after upper TDC.Timing diagram measured with rocker arm/valve playMaximum power output 55 KW at 7,200 rpmMax Torque 78 Nm at 6,000 rpmFuel supplì Multipoint sequential electronic injection, Magneti Marelli IAW phased, alfa-n system; 2 Ø 40 mm throttle bodies with Weber IW 031 injectors Starter ElectricIgnition Digital electronic with Magneti Marelli IAW 15RC inductive dischargeExhaust system 2 stainless steel pipes connected to 1 expansion chamber connected to two chromed steel silencers; 3-way catalyser with Lambda probe.Homologation Euro 3Transmission :Gearbox 6 speed – constantly engaged cogs with integrated flexible couplingsGear ratios : 1st 17/38 = 1 : 2.2352nd 20/34 = 1 : 1.73rd 23/31 = 1 : 1.3484th 26/29 = 1 : 1.1155th 31/30 = 1 : 0.9686th 29/25 = 1 : 0.862Lubrication Forced lubrication with lobe pump and pressure regulatorPrimary drive Helicoidal gears, ratio 24/35 = 1 : 1.458Final drive Shaft drive, ratio 12/44 = 1 : 3.667Clutch Dry mechanically operated twin plateFrame :Very rigid high tensile steel tubular twin cradleWheelbase 1,570 mmRake 165 mmSteering angle 28°Front suspension Marzocchi Ø 45 mm adjustable front forksFront wheel travel 140 mmRear suspension Single swingarm with progressive action – single rebound adjustable shock absorber with easy to operate pre-load setting knobRear wheel travel 120 mmFront brakes Twin floating 320 mm stainless steel discs, floating Brembo calipers with 2 parallel pistons.Rear brakes Single 282 mm fixed stainless steel disc, floating Brembo calipers with 2 parallel pistons.Wheels Spoked aluminium alloy (tubeless)Front wheel 3.5” x 18”Rear wheel 5.5” x 17”Front tyre 120/70 ZR 18 M/C (59W) TL Roadtec Z6Rear tyre 180/55 ZR 17 M/C (73W) TL Roadtec Z6Electrics :Voltage 12 VBattery 12 V – 18 AhAlternator 12 V - 350 WDimensions :Length 2,270 mmWidth 890 mmHeight 1,310 mmSaddle height 780 mmMinimum ground clearance 150 mmDry weight 224 kgFuel tank capacity 19 litres Reserve 4 litresACCESSORIES :Tank bagsCompact tank bagFly screenTouring SaddlebagTechnical data specified above for the Bellagio may be changed without prior notice.

Moto Guzzi’s most powerful naked bike

Other components include the powerful brakes which, by tradition, are generously sized, and the twin overlapping silencers. A custom bike with the soul of a naked.Behind the agility and manoeuvrability of the Bellagio lies a secret. An unprecedented tubular steel twin cradle frame connected to an aluminium swingarm housing a reactive shaft drive system

MotoGuzziBellagio


Design draws from the American “power cruiser” style, it has a very European look with detail touches of sophistication that are pure Italian.Other allusions to traditional custom design include the pulled back handlebars, the forward positioned footpegs, the two-up saddle astride the rear mudguard, and the plentiful chrome detailing offset by the coal black colour scheme.Moto Guzzi style abounds on the Bellagio, beginning with the transverse 90° V-twin engine representing the key to the design.

New Bellagio


The New Bellagio is one of Moto Guzzi’s most powerful naked bike. Other indicators are seen in the presence of the progressive rear suspension system, in the Brembo floating caliper brake system that acts on twin 320 mm discs, in the rear shock absorber and the fully adjustable forks.The spoked wheels, drag bar, rear-set saddle and forward positioned footpegs are just a few examples of the details of a style that concentrates weight on the rear wheel giving the impression of a bike that is fixed to the ground, ready to take off at the twist of the wrist.The new 940 cc engine is docile and vibration-free, it puts out power and torque from low revs

2007 Honda VFR800FI ABS


Brand New Interceptor with ABS Was $11,599 Now $8,365 Save Big!New 2007 Candy Dark Red Honda Interceptor with ABS and zero miles. Fresh from the crate with the full factory warranty - it is ready to ride! This is a very special price with very limited product availability. Maryland Residents are responsible for 6% tax and all other state fees. Sale price of $8,365 includes $1,200 Double Bonus Bucks. If using promotional financing from AHFC, you should contact our sales department at 410-923-4944 for complete explanation of financing program requirements.A $69 Doc fee will be collected from buyer. Total Price includes all factory incentives. Destination and Handling Extra.

Brand New 2008 CBR600RR Was $9,599 Now $7,340 Save Big!



Condition:
New > Sport Bikes
Year:
2008
Make:
Honda
Model:
CBR600
Color:
Silver
Miles:
0
VIN:
--
Stock #:
--
Price:
$7,340.00


New 2008 Silver CBR600RR sportbike with ZERO miles. This is a very special price with limited product availability. If 2007 gave any clue, the CBR®600RR has only just begun to write its legacy in the annals of 600-class performance. Crowned the Best Middleweight of 2007 by both Cycle World and Rider magazines, the CBR600RR oozes MotoGP-bred tech. Dual Stage Fuel Injection, Pro-Link® rear suspension, HESD electronic steering damper, wicked new colors for 2008 there's no other 600 like it. And there never will be.*Maryland Residents are responsible for 6% tax and all other state fees. A $69 Doc fee will be collected from buyer. Total Price includes all factory incentives. Destination and Handling Extra