Tuesday, September 24, 2013
Ducati 1198SP Interesting choice of Ducati fans







That is best information for fans Ducati
Like the standard 1198, the 1198 SP arrives equipped with Ducati Traction Control (DTC), Ducati Quick Shifter (DQS) and Ducati Data Analyser (DDA), but the SP also features Ohlins TTX rear suspension, slipper clutch and lightweight aluminum fuel tank.
The application of DTC to the 1198 SP underlines Ducatis intention to broaden the use of tried and tested race-derived electronics to its high-powered range, while the introduction of DQS marks the first time in history that "quick-shift" electronics have been fitted to a production Ducati.
The 1198 Testastretta Evoluzione Engine
The Testastretta Evoluzione engine is the crowning glory of Ducatis development and perfection of the L- Twin engine.
World Superbike dominance for almost two decades is the result of continual commitment to their twin-cylinder configuration.
Ducati share the reward for that commitment with World Championship- winning technologies constantly flowing from the factory race team into production engines.
The incredible 1198 SP is powered by a liquid cooled, L-Twin, Desmodromic engine that produces 170hp (125kW) @ 9,750rpm and a class-beating 97lb-ft (13.4kgm) of torque @ 8,000 rpm. The 1198 SP achieves its capacity by using exactly the same 106 x 67.9 bore and stroke as the factory race bike.
Volumetric efficiency through the four valves per cylinder is optimized with valve diameters at 43.5mm for the inlet and 35.5mm for the exhaust. They are actuated by racing-type rocker arms, super- finished for reduced friction and fatigue, and double overhead camshafts with radical profiles.
The incredible valve performances achieved are only possible because of Ducatis unique Desmodromic system, where valve closure is activated mechanically. At high rpm it would be almost impossible for the valve to follow the steep closure profile of the cam lobe if it were relying upon a normal valve spring.
With the Desmo system, the valve is closed mechanically with the same accuracy as it is opened, enabling steep cam profiles and radical cam timings. This system is used on every single Ducati motorcycle including their world-beating Superbike and Desmosedici MotoGP bikes.
To keep Ducatis highly efficient Testastretta cylinder heads breathing to their full potential, the injection system uses racing size elliptical throttle bodies, which are an equivalent diameter of 63.9mm.
The race-designed 1198 pistons have a distinctive double-ribbed undercrown to achieve high strength and reduced friction by using minimal piston wall surface area. Using technology developed for the Desmosedici MotoGP project, the design enables reliable operation of the 106mm diameter pistons when performing at high rpm.
The 1198 Testastretta Evoluzione engines are the lightest ever used in Ducati Superbikes, thanks to Vacural technology, a crankcase vacuum die-cast manufacturing process yielding weight reductions of 3kg (6.5lbs) compared to the first generation 1098 cases.
The vacuum die-cast process ensures consistent and precise wall thickness and increased strength from absolute material purity. The weight-saving cam covers in magnesium-alloy are evident by their gold color, while the alloy outer clutch and generator covers sport a black finish.
The 1198 gears are machined from the same high-strength steel used in Ducati Corse race applications and are subjected to a shot-peening treatment that further ensures their strength and reduced fatigue.
Specifically for the track-ready 1198 SP, a dry, multiplate competition-style slipper clutch is used to reduce the destabilising effect of aggressive downshifting and to provide the fine control required during extreme corner entry on the track.
The 1198 SP features a beautiful and efficient exhaust system. Incredibly lightweight, it has been engineered with a power-increasing symmetrical 2-1-2 layout that uses 52mm-57mm diameter tubing with a wall thickness of 0.8mm (.030in).
It is equipped with a catalytic converter and two lambda probes for optimum engine mapping and Euro3 conformity. The system terminates with Ducatis trademark twin under-seat silencers, delivering that unmistakable signature sound of the big bore Desmo 90° L-Twin.
1198 SP: Pure Race Performance
Stunning SP performance: the 168kg (370.3lb) (dry weight) 1198 SP creates a dream package by taking everything that the 1198 model has, including DTC, DDA and the new DQS systems, and adding top-of-the-range Öhlins suspension, lightweight chassis components, a lightweight factory team-style aluminum fuel tank and slipper clutch.
The high performance, fully adjustable 43mm Öhlins forks, which sport low friction titanium nitride-treated fork sliders, respond effortlessly to every imperfection in the tarmac.
Beyond their advanced engineering solutions, one of the most important characteristics of Öhlins forks is their ability to communicate the condition and quality of the tyre-to-road contact patch, a feature that puts every rider in superior control.
The suspension set-up at the rear is complemented with a fully adjustable Öhlins TTX rear shock equipped with a ride enhancing top-out spring and mounted to a single-sided swingarm for outstanding drive and traction. The front-to-rear Öhlins package is completed with a control-enhancing adjustable steering damper.
On any sport or race bike, the most effective area to reduce weight is its unsprung weight. These are components like tires, brakes and wheels. Lighter wheels have a lower moment of inertia that is beneficial with every direction change and application of the brakes.
The 1198 SP addresses this important area by mounting 7-spoke Marchesini forged and machined wheels. Both front and rear are super lightweight and their benefit is immediately apparent. The weight saving is further enhanced with the application of a carbon fiber front fender.
The 1198 SP weighs in at 1kg (2.2lb) less than the 2010 1198 S thanks to the beautifully made lightweight fuel tank, which also boosts the bikes fuel capacity by 2.5 liters (0.66 US gal) to 18 liters (4.75 US gal).
The tank is formed in 2mm thick aluminum, brush finished and then painted and clear-coated to create a racing stripe of natural aluminum that accentuates the factory race tank feel.
The 1198 SP is supplied with the Ducati Data Analysis (DDA), Ducati Traction Control (DTC) and Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) systems as standard equipment.
The DDA package enables the retrieval and analysis of data collected from a previous track session or road trip and DTC monitors front and rear wheel speeds to detect rear wheel-spin under acceleration and electronically reduces engine power to restore traction. DQS allows the throttle to remain open when changing-up through the gearbox, helping to save vital seconds in the pursuit of faster lap-times.
The 2011 1198 SP is available in two color schemes. The traditional Ducati red is now supported by a new diamond black and completed with red Trellis frames and black wheels with signature red pin-striping.
Ducati 1198 / 1198SP Features:
Engineered by the stopwatch
The 1198 SP Superbikes are the product of a team of designers and engineers who have combined their Ducati MotoGP and World Superbike technologies to create the finest sportbikes in the world.
From race-level engine specifications to World Championship-winning traction control and quick- shift electronics, the results are pure excellence.
The Ducati Traction Control (DTC) system further confirms Ducatis technology flow from racing to production and demonstrates how solutions developed for the track can be applied to enhance safer performance on the road.
Designed by the race track
Ducati Superbikes are race bikes, pure and simple. Their striking aerodynamic shapes create a natural riding position, confirmed by Ducati development and factory team riders as the optimum for speed and agility.
Performance is first and foremost in every detail. Trademark Ducati features like the high tail section and compact front end combine with twin under-seat silencers and single-sided swingarm to express the sheer engineering beauty of aerodynamics and agility.
Add the Testastretta Evoluzione engines as the hearts of the machines and the result is all-out performance Ducati Superbikes that look fast even when parked.
Superbike Chassis
The 1198 SP chassis and suspension are the result of a performance-first priority approach to development, in which the goal is always to further reduce weight and increase strength and rigidity to manage the high-powered Testastretta Evoluzione engines.
Trellis Frame
Developed in cooperation with Ducati Corse, the lightweight Trellis frame features 34mm main section tubes with a material thickness of 1.5mm. The result is an incredibly rigid construction that remains one of Ducatis lightest frame solutions ever. Adding style to performance, both schemes of the 1198 SP are finished in red.
Front Suspension
The 1198 features spectacular 43mm Öhlins with low friction titanium nitride-treated sliders are used on the 1198 SP. The front suspension solutions have radial brake caliper mountings providing superior road holding and incredible feedback to give every rider more confidence and control.
Rear Suspension
The lightweight Trellis frame and single-sided swingarm enable a compact and weight-saving rear suspension linkage system that features separate lower pick-up points for the push-rod and suspension unit. This tandem design effectively reduces stress around the linkage pick-up area of the Trellis frame.
Working together with this highly efficient linkage is an incredible Öhlins unit for the 1198 SP with TTX twin tube technology providing totally separate damping adjustment in compression and rebound.
The system uses experience gained in MotoGP to minimize friction and reduce the risk of cavitations under extreme conditions. The 1198 and 1198 SP rear suspension system has an adjustable rear ride-height, independent of spring pre-load and other suspension settings - valuable when seeking the perfect set-up for personal riding style or track conditions.
Single-Sided Swingarm
The dual construction technique used for the single-sided swingarm allows the main operational components to use individual aluminium castings so as to ensure strength around the pivot points, wheel hub and suspension links, while lightweight, fabricated aluminium sections are used to complete the construction into a single, beautifully engineered component. The 1198 SP all have single- sided swingarms finished in black.
Magnesium Subframe
Producing a front subframe in magnesium underlines the attention to weight-saving detail in the Ducati Superbike range.
Its construction provides secure support for the headlamp, instruments and fairing, and the weight-saving around this high, forward position contributes considerably to overall feel and control of the machine.
Aerodynamic Bodywork
Carefully designed for aerodynamic efficiency and to hug the sleek lines of the chassis, the Superbike bodywork enables the rider to blend effortlessly into the correct riding position.
Its race-developed fairing design ensures perfect integration with the cooling system by providing efficient flow through the advanced, large surface area coolant radiator, which is assisted by lightweight, high flow electric fan assemblies and oil coolers.
Aerodynamically shaped air ducts positioned just below the headlamps are precisely calculated to provide ample air delivery to the pressurized airbox.
The lightweight bodywork contributes considerably to overall performance by reducing weight, protecting the Testastretta Evoluzione engines power output, and assisting the rider to effortlessly tuck in from the wind stream and reduce drag to achieve maximum straight-line track speeds.
Instrumentation
This pure racing digital instrumentation originating from Ducatis MotoGP project has no switches or buttons to compromise its clean, minimalist lines. Instead, information additional to the default read-outs is managed from the left-hand handlebar-mounted switch gear, allowing the rider to scroll through and select from various menus.
The display, which has a bright white LED back lighting presents rpm and speed, with the former displayed across the screen in a progressive bar graph. Optionally, the rpm and speed can be displayed in numeric values.
Additionally, it displays lap times, DTC level selected (if activated on 1198 and 1198 SP) time, air temperature, coolant temperature, battery voltage, two trips and a trip that automatically starts as the fuel system goes onto reserve.
Warning lights illuminate to signify neutral, turn signals, high- beam, rev-limit, low oil pressure, fuel reserve, DTC intervention (if activated on 1198 and 1198 SP) and scheduled maintenance.
The instrument display is also used as the control panels for the DDA (supplied as standard equipment with the 1198 and 1198 SP), DTC and DQS systems as well as listing lap times recorded by using the high-beam flash button as a stopwatch.
Superbike Lights and Indicators
The horizontal twin headlamps, a signature Ducati style from the iconic 916, are modernised with the latest lighting technology. Two polyellipsoidal units light the way with a powerful beam while maintaining an aggressive look to the front of the machine in pure Ducati Superbike tradition.
The rear light employs a specially designed strip of LEDs enhanced by a high diffusion lens shaped into the sleek lines of the tailpiece. The same LEDs are intensified for brake lights.
The directional indicators also use the latest in LED technology for illumination. The frontal indicators are beautifully integrated into the rear view mirrors, which come with an optional spacer kit enabling an extension of 30mm over the standard mirror stem length.
Ducati Quick Shift
The Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) system is the first time that a race-style electronic quick-shift has been supplied as original equipment on a production Ducati. Normally used specifically for racing, the system allows the rider to keep the throttle open when changing-up through the gearbox, helping to save vital seconds in the pursuit of faster lap-times.
The system not only saves time when changing gear, but also enables the possibility of uninterrupted air flow through the throttle bodies throughout the upward gear- changing process.
The system consists of a micro-switch built into the linkage of the gear change lever, which when actuated in the direction of selecting a higher gear, sends a signal to the main ECU.
The ECU instantly understands which gear the motorcycle is in by calculating the rpm and vehicle speed and then reads the amount of throttle opening before applying a pre-programmed cut in fuel injection and ignition measured in milliseconds.
This spilt-second electronic interruption in drive is programmed precisely to allow the next gear to be selected without having to actuate the clutch or close the throttle.
The DQS system can be deactivated by entering the control panel in the motorcycles instrumentation and is reactivated by default the next time the ignition is turned on.
As the system only functions for a matter of milliseconds, the 1198 and 1198 SP can still be ridden using a normal gear-changing style.
Ducati Traction Control
Ducati were the first manufacturer to introduce a true competition-level traction control system on a production motorcycle and for 2011 the highly successful system is now integrated into both the 1198 and 1198 SP electronics as standard equipment.
The Ducati Traction Control (DTC) system further underlines Ducatis technology flow from racing to production and demonstrates how solutions developed for the track can be applied to enhance performance safety on the road.
DTC uses the same software logic developed and used by Ducati Corse for their World Championship- winning MotoGP and World Superbike motorcycles and offers a choice of eight settings developed by their professional test riders and racers.
Accessible from the left-hand switchgear and displayed on the digital instrumentation, the system offers a choice of eight profiles, each one programmed with a wheel-spin tolerance matched to progressive riding levels of skill graded from one to eight.
While level eight administers a confidence-building, high level of interaction from the system by activating upon the slightest amount of wheel-spin, level one offers a much higher tolerance and, therefore, much less intervention for highly competent riders.
When the level is selected and DTC activated, the level is displayed on the instrumentation.
When the profile that best suits the combination of road or track conditions and riding style has been selected and the DTC system activated, front and rear wheel sensors compare speed differential to sense when rear traction is being broken (wheel-spin).
DTC then decides the best combination of two different types of instant electronic adjustment, calculated with data supplied from multiple sources.
The first soft stage of system interaction is executed by high speed software that makes instant electronic adjustment to the ignition timing, administering varying amounts of ignition retardation to reduce the engines torque.
During this initial stage of DTC interaction, up to three red lights - normally used to signify the over-rev limiter - illuminate to indicate the amount of DTC being applied.
If the DTC software detects that the first soft stage of system interaction is inadequate to control the wheel-spin, it continues to administer ignition retardation and, in addition, instructs the engine ECU to initiate a pattern of constantly increasing injection cuts until, if necessary, full injection cut.
Monday, September 23, 2013
2009 Aprilia Mana GT ABS Review

When it comes down to expended simple functionality and brilliant alternatives this years Mana GT is right up there. Under the dummy container you have place for a complete encountered headgear and in the panniers you can put everything else desired for visiting. Generate the handbrake, fireplace it up perspective and go. This is scooter functionality in a big motorbike and it really can beauty even a big bad rider given 50 percent a opportunity.
The Mana GT is many issues for different individuals. For anyone changing from a scooter or a tiny 125cc motorbike the Mana is the hair and a true motorbike. For anyone downgrading from a more highly effective common motorbike it’s a bit of an oddity and perhaps a lambs in wolf’s clothes. But nevertheless, I really like the Mana GT for what it is; a functional no rubbish actual car that will take you from A to B in the most straightforward style. Additionally not to like about that?
The 850 Mana GT ABS is distinct right away as it has an adaptable windshield. This windshield is a little better than the one on the Shiver 750 GT as it is a bit higher. It provides reasonable safeguard against the various circumstances I found in the Alps. The big panniers are also common on the GT, but the topbox is an equipment. As earlier talked about, the dummy container contains a significant safe-keeping area that is started out by using a switch on the handlebar and should the power ever be level unique guide book switch under the person hold. The area is even lit when it’s black.
The Mana is the motorbike globes respond to the compact electric digital camera. It’s just that simple. If you should ever run out of energy (it’s not simple as the automated method is very energy efficient) you can start the person hold and complete up the 4.4-gallon gas container.
If you want to explore using cycles then the Mana fails to deliver. It’s without a gearbox and clutch system and as such does not show you how to trip a common motorbike. However, if you never treatment about that so much then the Mana GT is the most functional factor on the earth. One factor to consider is that if you do get worn out with the Mana after a while you have nothing much like enhance to and you have to discover how to trip a common motorbike. That said, I believe unique clear current sell for this motorbike and the greatest client collection should be present car people or scooter individuals. For everyone else it’s something value trying, but not actually the respond to your potential two-wheeled urges.
Sunday, September 22, 2013
2011 Suzuki GSX1250FA Review







Saturday, September 21, 2013
2011 Triumph Thunderbird Storm Review
New Year, Triumph take a page from the book America and efforts to raise with the new Thunderbird Storm. In short, while T-Bird is an elegant, friendly cruiser Storm is a certifiable badass.

But as they say, not to replace the transition, and an optional 1700 cc Big Bore kits available for the Thunderbird is now installed as the Storm series. This set includes the most obvious pistons, cams reviewed, the largest segments, new cylinder liners, piston pins, and seals. Upgraded clutch springs have also dealt a blow to power. Consider the T-Bird still need to be warned: it is still involved in a smaller engine.

The rest of the engine characteristics remain the same: it is still a liquid-cooled, dual overhead cam head and a range of 270 degrees of fire that especially the accessory exhaust system Triumph sounds strangely like a certain American-twin V exhaust note of Milwaukee. 9.7:1 compression ratio, and fed into the cylinders through the gas fuel injection. In fact, the rest of the Storm is pretty much black-out T-Bird as well.

Before you ever throw a leg over the bike, I took a step back and just admire its beauty. Styling is a subjective topic, but my first reaction is that Triumph has done its homework on how to style a cruiser which still retains its aggressive character. To validate my point, sitting outside the hotel, there were some storms draw the attention of hotel guests, which covers almost the entire spectrum of ages, men and women. Curiously, the storm draws attention for its lack of chromium in the same way that T-Bird does for its abundance of it.

Since the cylinders are side by side, rather than the V-angle, the seat can be closer to the bar with the fuel tank, which does not need to be stretched to cover the front of the cylinder as a V-Twin . Storm is also very useful to confirm raised bar, which does not change the distance of the bar, but the status bar tweaks just a smidge. This puts the pilot in my size in a comfortable and natural.

Thumb-starter, and is as impressive as it is made up of 1699cc parallel twin engine. Counterbalancers twin engine that naturally suppress feelings Buzzy. My focus is shifting from just the engine moving again. 1700 cc mill is a key part of the bike has everything and needs attention. Each touch of the accelerator to produce a sense of immediacy and strap the rear wheel, it felt like the whole body. No matter which one you have six gears, a wide spread of torque is not accelerating in storm quickly. Enough to pave the way for a short gear teeth are used in the top five quickly, but the high level of indebtedness of the sixth makes it ideal for overdrive.

In the tight stuff, it was impressive storm (for a cruiser anyway). It balanced turn-in and have a good line, with its track 151mm. Suspension, which consists of a 47mm Showa fork and dual front shocks in the rear, providing 4.7 and 3.7 inches of travel, respectively. The units are not adjustable save up adjusting the preload on the rear.

While the storm is building the momentum forward, occasionally comes to rest is also important, and the Storm offers a worry-free performance and impressive, which is something not normally associated with bikes this category. Dual 310 mm floating disc at the front are coupled to each Nissin four-piston, while the 310 mm rear disc is attached to a fixed twin-piston Brembo. The binding energy compared to only provide decent stop, but press the rear brake lever and also has the power braking feel the sport.

Storm is available in any color as long as its black, but at least you get to choose Matt Black and Jet Black. One of them will cost you $ 13,899.
Friday, September 20, 2013
2011 Ducati 1198 SP Review

Conclusion





Yamaha 2011 FZ8

| MSRP* | $8,490 (Raven) Available from December 2010 |
| ENGINE | |
| Type | 779cc liquid-cooled inline 4-cylinder; DOHC, 16 valves |
| Bore x Stroke | 68.0 x 53.6mm |
| Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Delivery | Fuel Injection |
| Ignition | Digital TCI: Transistor Controlled Ignition with 32-bit ECU |
| Transmission | 6-speed w/multiplate clutch |
| Final Drive | O-ring chain |
| CHASSIS | |
| Suspension / Front | 5.1-in travel |
| Suspension/Rear | 5.1-in travel |
| Brakes / Front | Dual 310mm hydraulic discs |
| Brakes / Rear | 267mm disc |
| Tires / Front | 120/70-ZR17 |
| Tires / Rear | 180/55-ZR17 |
| DIMENSIONS | |
| Length | 84.3 in |
| Width | 30.3 in |
| Height | 41.9 in |
| Seat Height | 32.1 in |
| Wheelbase | 57.5 in |
| Ground Clearance | 5.5 in |
| Rake (Caster Angle) | 25.0° |
| Trail | 4.3 in |
| Fuel Capacity | 4.5 gal |
| Fuel Economy** | 39.8 mpg |
| Wet Weight*** | 467 lb |
| OTHER | |
| Warranty | 1 Year (Limited Factory Warranty) |
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Together Tour Kawasaki GTR 1400 Concours
Kawasaki GTR 1400 Concours


- Tuned to provide smooth power across a wide rev range
- Variable valve timing improves the engine’s flexibility and efficiency by altering the camshaft profiles to boost low-end and mid-range torque without sacrificing top-end power
- Compact and narrow engine design
- 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, dual secondary balancers virtually eliminate unwanted vibrations for extremely smooth engine operation and enhanced rider comfort
Ram Air Induction
- Ram air ducts provide a straighter path to the airbox for maximum intake efficiency
- Supplies cooler, high-pressure air to the engine for maximum power output via the air filter
Digital Fuel Injection
- Digital computer feeds the engine exactly the amount of fuel it needs for cleaner emissions and maximum fuel economy
- 32-bit electronic control unit works with dual throttle valve system to further enhance throttle response and control
- Throttle bodies are fitted with sub-throttle valves that are controlled by the ECU to provide smooth, precise response similar to constant velocity carburetors
Digital Ignition
- Digital Timing Advance enhances low-and mid-range power
- Four individual spark plug-mounted ignition coils fire each spark plug independently to achieve the optimum timing for that cylinder at that instant
- Idle speed control system included in ECU for easier starting and warm-up
Radial Pump Clutch Master Cylinder
- Hydraulic clutch features a radial-pump clutch master cylinder for smooth and precise clutch engagement
Monocoque Aluminum Frame
- Hollow aluminum box sections arch over the engine from the steering head to the swing arm pivot, the frame is narrow, rigid and very light
- Rigidly mounted engine acts as a stressed frame member to increase the frame’s torsional rigidity and saves approximately four pounds
- Engine positioned forward in the frame, wheelbase and front/rear weight balance were carefully designed to achieve high-speed stability and responsive handling
- Massive steering head casting contributes to frame rigidity
Radial-mount Petal-type Front Disc Brakes
- Radial design utilizes integrated mounting points at both the top and bottom of the caliper, with the mounting bolts inserted through the rear of the caliper instead of the side/front. This makes the caliper more rigid, which improves brake feel over a wider range of operation
- Separate brake pads are used for each piston to provide increased cooling efficiency and more consistent brake feel under extreme conditions
- Petal design front and rear brake rotors provide enhanced cooling and better warp resistance
- Radial-pump front brake master cylinder improves brake performance and lever feel
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
Antilock Brake System (Concours™ 14 ABS)
- ABS brakes boost safety and rider confidence in lowtraction conditions and may enhance evasive maneuvering in an emergency
Bodywork Optimized for Sport Touring
- Fairing design promotes smooth airflow around the rider and passenger with minimal buffeting
- Integrated, locking hard luggage offers plenty of storage, without disrupting the Concours 14’s style or performance
- Electrically adjustable vented windscreen
- Large, comfortable seat offers long-distance comfort for both rider and passenger
- Glove box mounted on the fuel tank cover
- Easy to read speedometer and tachometer
- Multi-function LCD digital display includes an odometer, two trip meters, fuel gauge, gear position indicator and a clock
- Controller Area Network (CAN) interface between the gauges uses fewer wires and allows a greater volume of information to be exchanged than traditional instrument panels
- Kawasaki’s Intelligent Proximity Activation Start System (KI-PASS)
- Tire pressure sensors
As such it’s got a decidedly sporty side, yet this is not just a ZX-14 with higher handlebars. The Concours 14 has been purpose-built for long-distance travel in comfort—it also just happens to have the handling, braking and cojones of Kawasaki’s largest kick-butt sportbike, nearly a liter-and-a-half in size.
Kawasaki used several innovations to better suit the ZX-14’s liquid-cooled, transverse, 1,352cc in-line four to touring without robbing it of too much top-end fire. As you might expect, the bores in the four throttle bodies have been narrowed from 44mm to 40mm for increased intake velocity and better low- and midrange throttle response. Ignition, fuel injection and exhaust were all refined for smoother power delivery, and Kawasaki went a step further by adding Variable Valve Timing, or VVT, which hydraulically advances or retards the intake cam in response to engine speed and throttle position. The dual gear-driven balancers and hydraulic cam-chain tensioners from the ZX-14 were retained, all of which results in a smooth, locomotivelike powerplant that pulls hard from a 2,500-rpm crawl all the way up to its redline of 10,500 rpm.
Advertisement Kawasaki claims the revised engine makes 156 horsepower at the crankshaft at 8,800 rpm, and 103 lb-ft of torque at just 6,200. Even without the high-speed fans on the Borla Performance dyno required to take advantage of the Concours 14’s dual ram-air injection, it still cranked out 130 horsepower at 9,100 rpm at the rear wheel, and 87 lb-ft of torque at 7,600. At speed the ram air is probably good for another 4-6 horsepower. Though the shaft final drive (which the chain-drive ZX-14 doesn’t have) takes a share in frictional losses, even fully loaded and two-up with its load capacity of 425 pounds (our GVWR-less-wet-weight figure; Kawasaki says 441 pounds), a quick pass merely requires thinking about turning the throttle a little. Add a downshift and the Concours 14 simply flies around whatever is in front of you. Although you pay the price for all of this power in terms of average fuel economy (ours was just 36.5 mpg with a variety of riding styles and loads), the bike’s nicely sized 5.8-gallon tank gives it a range of more than 200 miles.
Rider Report
Up front the Concours wears a large concave radiator with dual fans (the ZX-14 has a single fan), and the four-two-one stainless-steel exhaust has a pair of catalyzers within. The EFI system on U.S. bikes is not closed-loop, as O2 sensors are not used. Like most fully faired, liquid-cooled motorcycles of this size, the Concours 14 rider feels quite a bit of heat on his or her lower legs when the ambient temperatures rise or the pace slows to a traffic-snarled crawl. The less insulation you’re wearing on your legs the easier it is to feel. We’ll have a comparison test in a future issue, but suffice to say the Concours’ heat output is certainly not as bad as the old Yamaha FJR1300, but probably worse than the new one.
Like the ZX-14 the Concours’ in-line four is mounted as a stressed member in a monocoque frame design, which connects a beefy pair of swingarm plates to the steering head with a thin-walled aluminum shell. A 43mm male-slider fork with adjustable spring preload and rebound damping guides the front wheel, while Kawasaki’s new Tetra-Lever swingarm is supported by a bottom-link spring strut with adjustable rebound damping and remotely adjustable spring preload. The Tetra-Lever is Kawasaki’s method of dealing with the problem of “shaft-jacking,” when throttle inputs cause the final drive pinion gear to climb up and down on the ring gear and load and unload the rear suspension. The Tetra-Lever’s dual-sided, four-link swingarm feeds those forces into the chassis rather than the suspension, preventing any effect on the ride as a result of getting on and off the throttle.
Rider Report
A ZX-14 rider will not recognize the Concours 14 from the cockpit. Handlebars are 3.8 inches farther back and nearly 6 inches higher, footpegs more than an inch lower and farther forward, and the seat a half-inch higher (and much cushier!). Up front is a well-designed electric windscreen, which Kawasaki says in terms of aerodynamics and visibility is designed for sport riding. It does indeed stay well below the rider’s line of sight at all times, yet I was pleasantly surprised by the still pocket of air it creates when all the way up, even shielding the tops of the rider’s legs. Up or down the shield can be noisy, with the least buffeting in the down position. Passengers reported that the increased warmth with it up was quite noticeable, but couldn’t detect any other difference between up or down. A taller windscreen is available as an accessory.
Passenger accommodations on the Concours 14 are first rate, with a wide, supportive, comfortable seat like the rider’s, good footpeg positions and excellent grabrails. My wife Genie said that she could ride back there all day without complaint. The grabrails are part of a rear rack system that helps support the side cases and LED taillight; it will carry 22 pounds in a duffle or the accessory top trunk on the rear platform. The locking, easily removed side cases are symmetrical and will each swallow a full-face helmet. There’s also a small glove box on the top of the fuel tank.
All-day comfort with a kind of always-ready-for-a-corner feel describes the Concours’ seating position. Mostly upright with just a slight amount of weight on the wrists, the comfortable seat lets you move around easily, and the windscreen can be used to increase warmth or cooling as well as take some weight off your wrists by increasing the windblast on your chest with a button push. It’s a fine ergonomic combination that is supremely comfortable (except perhaps for the heat at times) and instills confidence in attack mode. Passengers are neither too close nor too far away, and don’t slide around or bump your head, partly because it’s so easy to ride the bike smoothly. They’ve always got a good place to hang on, and there’s no abruptness or jerkiness from the EFI except for a tiny bit when cold (Kawasaki has used ECU-controlled sub-throttle valves to smooth throttle response).
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
2011 Aprilia SR50 Review

Management of the motorcycle, accuracy and security aglility total.
Double disc brakes, controlled braking bags and fantastic active safety.
Robust construction, make sure that your faithful SR mile after mile after mile.
The digital instruments, trip computer
Transponder anti-theft system and provision for locking the guard armored cable. Because you can never be too safe.
The right size, not too small nor too large. As real sports scooter should be.
The attention to detail to satisfy the most demanding.
Enviable equipment, including powerful 35 watt headlights, storage compartment in the nose seat, the apparatus of motorcycle style and plate holder and rear suspension with a spring-colored open

Engine: Liquid cooled horizontal single cylinder two stroke. Electronic direct injection of fuel.
Bore x stroke: 40 x 39.3 mm
Total displacement: 49 cc
Compression ratio: 11,5:1
Ignition: High power inductive
Starting: Electric
Generator: flywheel, 165 W - 12 V.
Transmission: continuously variable automatic
Clutch: Automatic dry centrifugal clutch

Final drive: Gears from the beginning.
Setting: split cradle frame made of tubular steel single high-strength
Front suspension: hydraulic fork 90 mm wheel travel
Rear suspension: the motor unit acting as swingarm frame linkages on two radial block stands in silence, diversion of 70 mm. Rear: 190 mm disc of stainless steel, racing caliper with two opposed 30 mm pistons
Brakes: Front brake 7.5 "stainless steel disc with two 1.3 vs caliber racing" rear brake piston 7.5 "stainless steel disc with two 1.2-caliber racing front" of the piston
Wheels: Five spoke, light alloy wheels and rear: 3.50 x 13 "
Tyres Tubeless. Front and rear: 130/60 x 13 "
Dimensions: Overall length: 1860 mm Width: 705 mm Wheelbase: 1,120 mm Seat height: 32.2 "Wheelbase: 50.78"
Tank capacity: 1.85 gallons
Admission: Reed valve




Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Honda CBF 1000FA

Make Model | Honda CBF 1000FA |
| Year | 2011 |
| Engine | Liquid cooled, four stroke, transverse four cylinder, DOHC, 4 valve per cylinder. |
| Capacity | 998 |
| Bore x Stroke | 75 x 56,5 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 11.2;1 |
| Induction | PGM-FI, 36mm Throttle Bore |
| Ignition / Starting | Computer-controlled digital transistorised with electronic advance / electric |
| Clutch | Wet, multiplate with coil springs |
| Max Power | 79 KW @ 9000 rpm |
| Max Torque | 96 Nm @ 6500 rpm |
| Transmission / Drive | 6 Speed / chain |
| Gear Ratio | 1st 1 2.643 / 2nd 1.833 / 3rd 1.500 / 4th 1.318 / 5th 1.175 / 6th 1.074 |
| Frame | Type Mono-backbone; cast aluminium |
| Front Suspension | 41mm free valve-type telescopic fork and adjustable spring; 120mm wheel travel. |
| Rear Suspension | Gas-charged HMAS damper and adjustable spring and rebound; 120mm wheel travel. |
| Front Brakes | 2x 296mm discs 2 piston calipers, floating rotors, sintered metal pads ( and ABS) |
| Rear Brakes | Single 240mm disc, 1 piston caliper, sintered metal pads (and ABS) |
| Front Tyre | 120/70 ZR17 |
| Rear Tyre | 160/70 ZR17 |
| Seat Height | 795mm (±15mm) |
| Dry-Weight | 245kg (F: 120kg; R: 125kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 20 Litres |
Produced by Honda subsidiary Honda Italia Industriale S.P.A. (Italy), the CBF1000 motorcycle was orignally released in the European markets.
The CBF1000, in which the CBF1000 FA is based, has been around since 2006, giving riders performance and reliability that was easy on a motorcyclists wallet.
These reasons brought additional success to the CBF1000, and the newer version, the CBF1000FA, offers "a stylish new edge, giving the look of this new model a more compact, sporty feel, while keeping all the attributes that continue to make the CBF 1000 family a huge success."
The motor, which is a 998cc Fireblade (CBR1000) derived engine, now features slightly higher compression ratio and about 10 more horsepower.
The motorcycle also features a sporty, single-exhaust end-can. Honda UK says despite this increased power, Hondas frugal PGM-FI system makes the CBF1000FA motorcycle still more fuel-efficient.
As for chassis improvements, the original steel motorcycle frame was replaced by a aluminum unit. Suspension has been improved, and combined with the new aluminum frame, the CBR1000FA motorcycle has better handling and lighter weight.
In addition, Hondas reputed Combined ABS (C-ABS) system is equipped as standard on the UKs CBF1000F motorcycle to further enhance the machines safety and performance.
In the appearance department, the CBF1000FA features a "racier, slimmer" look to the half-fairing, and also a new dash layout.
The layout includes a large, central analog rev-counter and digital speedometer along with practical touches such as dual trip meters and fuel gauge, which also shows both real-time and average fuel consumption.
Sporty can still mean comfy, as the CBF1000FA motorcycle features a four-position windscreen, three-position seat and adjustable handlebars, as well as six-spoke wheels, Honda UK says.
The current range includes the CBF1000 model, available in both standard and ABS versions priced at £7,075 ($10,612.50 USD) and £7,575 ($11,362.5) (OTR) respectively, with the CBF1000GT motorcycle, which features fairing lowers and a three-box luggage system, priced at £8,425 (OTR).
The new CBF1000FA is available in two colors: Pearl Nightstar Black and Pearl Cool White, and can be even further enhanced with a host of genuine Honda accessories including luggage (top box and panniers both in two size options), heated grips, engine/casing covers, alarm, outdoor cover, U-lock, tank pad and center stand.
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