2016 Archives

EICMA 2015: All-new Suzuki GSX-R1000 finally unveiled

After being absent from the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show, the long wait is finally over after the covers were pulled off an all-new Suzuki GSX-R1000 superbike.

Its been a full 11 years since Suzuki fully updated the model, and this new GSX-R1000, which bears the ‘L7’ chassis code, arrives sporting plenty of new hardware and an all-new look as well.

Suzuki claims this new sixth generation GSX-R1000 is the lightest, most powerful and best handling GSX-R ever built, and we have very little reason to doubt that claim. This 6th generation GSX-R1000, or better known as the ‘Gixxer’ thousand amongst fans, is also the most highly equipped version of the superbike ever built.

As far as looks go, the sixth-gen Gixxer thousand now boasts a brand new face and yet, the bike’s lines remains rather distinctively unmistakable as a Gixxer. There’s new LED lighting all round that is complimented with a new LED dash display as well, giving this new L7 Gixxer a very high-tech touch. Of course, what counts for the most is what’s beneath the pretty new metal and this sixth-gen Gixxer has got plenty to boast.

For starters, it gains with a new and improved 999cc in-line four-cylinder engine primed with variable valve timing (VVT). The S-brand’s new litre-sized screamer offers 200hp and about 111Nm of peak torque. Highlights here include Suzuki Racing Finger valve train follower rocker arm to improve valve control and allow higher rpm, while the Suzuki Exhaust Tuning-Alpha (SET-A) and Suzuki Top Feed Injector (S-TFI) systems, which all combine to make what Suzuki call their Broad Power System. Crucially though, much of these were developed off the S-brand’s GSX-RR MotoGP bike.

The mill is encased within an all-new chassis design made using lightweight aluminium, but the icing on its cake has to be the Showa Balance Free Front Forks (BFFF) that was first seen in the rivalling 2016 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R. The Gixxer takes things up a notch though by pairing that with Showa’s Balance Free Rear Cushion at the back, and if our trained eyes are correct, you even get of twin Brembo anchors up front as well.

Like the rivalling Yamaha YZF-R1 and Kawasaki ZX-10R, the new Gixxer thousand also arrives with a full array of new electronics and advanced rider aids. Things start off with a quick-shifter and auto-blipper, followed by a 10-level traction control system, launch control, as well as three different riding modes thanks to ride-by-wire, not forgetting the all-important advanced ABS suite too.

The new sixth-generation Suzuki GSX-R1000 is expected to hit markets starting early next year but prices are still undisclosed for now. Nevertheless, this is one superbike we know will stack well against its other Japanese- and European-made litre-classed rivals indeed.

2016 Suzuki GSX-R1000 (L7)

Sources: Asphaltandrubber and MCN

2016 MV Agusta Brutale 800 fully ‘teased’ in video

Italian motorcycle artisans MV Agusta have just released its teaser video for the refreshed 2016 MV Agusta Brutale 800 naked model. Though called a ‘teaser’, the video ironically reveals the revised bike in full, showing off some of the cosmetic changes the Varese brand has performed for its core naked bike model.

Though we are visually clear on the aesthetic revisions, MV Agusta have withheld any further information surrounding the refreshed naked. Seems the brand wants to save the details for the bike’s scheduled debut at the annual EICMA show in Milan that is set to open its doors this week.

In any case, the changes are rather clear in comparison to the outgoing 2015 model. Firstly, this 2016 model sports a revised tail section, complemented with a redesigned triple-exhaust and tail lamp as well. Up front comes a smartened up front fascia thanks to the revised and rear-swept headlamp design, a restyled fuel tank, as well as a set of new intake ducts and radiator fairings.

Visually, it is difficult to ascertain any mechanical revisions from the video. However, sources are led to believe that much of the oily bits remain unchanged from the outgoing 2015 version. Of course, this is still subject to confirmation, so we will have to wait until MV Agusta things official once EICMA 2015 opens its doors.

Sources: YouTube / Moto.it / Asphaltandrubber / Visordown

First look: 2016 BMW G310R – the baby beemer!

After numerous spyshots and being teased as a stunting concept, the worldwide wait for the new small capacity BMW bike is finally over.

Meet the all-new BMW G310R, BMW Motorrad brand’s first ever sub-500cc model that was developed in partnership with Indian manufacturer TVS.

Unveiled online just recently, the new ‘baby beemer’ enters the ever-growing yet lucrative lightweight bikes segment, and will surely stand as a strong rival against segment favourites like KTM and the usuals from Japanese powerhouses. Here’s what we’ve managed to garner so far about this small yet feisty new made-in-India BMW.

As previewed in the concept, the BMW G310R is powered using a newly developed liquid-cooled DOHC 313cc single-cylinder heart with four valves. Unique traits here are its 80mm x 62.1mm bore x stroke figures, followed by its backward-tilted cylinder in open-deck design with the cylinder head turned by 180 degrees, making it possible to position the intake tract at the front.

As a result, the mill develops 34hp at 9,800rpm and peak torque of 28Nm at 7,500rpm. All that power is channelled to the rear wheel using a six-speed constant mesh transmission primed with a wet multi-plate clutch and a chain drive system.

The powertrain is encased within a Tubular steel frame design that was built with a grid structure whilst having a bolt-on rear frame and a long swingarm assembly made using cast aluminium. Up front sees a pair of 41mm telescopic inverted forks that are combined with steering geometry honed towards safe and predictable handling, offering 140mm of fork travel too. The wheelbase stands at 1,374mm with the adjustable rear shock mounted directly whilst boasting 131mm of travel as well.

Next comes a set of lightweight yet strong 17-inch five-spoke wheels front and aft that are shod in 110/70/17 (front) and 150/60/17 (rear) tyre sizes. Anchors come in the form of single discs all round measuring 300mm up front and 240mm in the rear, radially-mounted four-piston caliper in front, as well as the BMW Motorrad ABS suite primed as standard.

Notably, the BMW G310R also gets a decently-sized 11-litre fuel tank, a low unladen weight of 158.5kg and a standard seat height of 785mm. Despite its size, BMW further claimed that the new G310R is capable of reaching a top speed of approximately 145km/h as well.

BMW did mentioned that low and high seat heights are available with optional accessories ranging from 760mm through to 815mm. Other additional accessories available include luggage, top boxes, a centrestand, LED indicators, a 12-volt charging socket and heated grips too.

As far as the design goes, much of the G310R’s lines are inspired by the bigger S1000R streetfighter. The basic paint scheme on offer is a black and white combination with silver highlights, followed by a more premium metallic blue and grey scheme plus a Pearl White option as well.

Excited? So are we, and the news just gets better as insiders at BMW hints at more variants to come soon based on the G310R. That includes a half faired and ‘adventure’ bike versions slated to debut at a later stage.

The new BMW G310R will be debuting at EICMA later this month with markets sales set to commence early next year. We are not sure when it will arrive locally, but all signs indicate that this is one BMW worth waiting for indeed. Check out the extensive gallery we’ve prepared below to see the bike in full detail.

2016 BMW G310R (static)

2016 BMW G310R (action)

Sources BMW Motorrad / Visordown, MCN and MoreBikes

First look: 2016 Triumph Speed Triple

After treating fans worldwide with the debut of the all-new Bonneville classic, Triumph has kept its momentum going by revealing the new and improved 2016 Triumph Speed Triple streetfighter range ahead of this month’s EICMA 2015 expo.

We’ve already seen spyshots and reported of the possible updates the new Speed Triple would get, and the result is this heavily revised version for 2016. Firstly, the new models carries new Speed Triple S and Speed Triple R naming schemes for 2016.

Crucially, both versions retain the outgoing model’s chassis but does gain with an extensive update package revolving around its on board electronics and powertrain. Complementing that are a host of mild cosmetic enhancements comprised of sleeker bodywork inspired from the Daytona 675R and a new seat design as well.

For the 2016 model, the Speed Triple gains with a revised 1,050cc triple-cylinder heart that boasts 104 new development. It now offers more power and torque across its entire rev range with fuel efficiency improved by 10%. Highlights here are a new combustion chamber and cylinder head, new machined crank, redesigned pistons and the adoption of new ride-by-wire throttle bodies.

The engine and radiator has been narrowed down in size too with Triumph says grants the entire package with a 20mm narrower standover. Other new bits include a slipper clutch, a smaller new radiator, as well as a revised exhaust system that Triumph claims to have an improved flow rate of 70%.

Triumph has yet to release the official power and torque figures, but sources believe the 2016 Triumph Speed Triple’s revised heart will have at least 140hp.
Perhaps the biggest improvement incorporated in the 2016 Speed Triple is its heavily revamped electronics suite. The update primes the 2016 model with a new ECU and an adjustable ride-by-wire throttle with changeable throttle maps. As a result, the new bike now offers five selectable riding modes: Road, Rain, Sport, Track and a Custom rider-programmable mode. Next up comes the uprated ABS and Traction Control suites that grants riders with selectable levels with both being linked to the riding modes as well.

Updates with the chassis hardware are mild, but there are several notable new bits starting with Brembo monobloc calipers. Next up comes the full compliment of Öhlins suspension all round exclusively for the Speed Triple R, which is comprised of the brand’s NIX30 front forks and TTX36 rear shock.

Also exclusive to the Speed Triple R are several unique and racy exterior trims. These include a carbon-fibre front mudguard, carbon tank inserts and a bellypan. Completing its premium racy looks, the R also boasts new billet-machined bar clamps and risers, swingarm pivot covers and rear wheel finisher, plus a red radiator cowls and a red subframe.

Completing the update are a set of new colour schemes starting with the Speed Triple S model’s ‘Diablo Red’ and ‘Phantom Black’ followed by the R’s ‘Crystal White’ and ‘Matt Graphite’.

We can expect more details surrounding the revised 2016 Triumph Speed Triple range as soon as they make their public debuts at the annual EICMA show in Milan, Italy later this month.

Sources: Asphaltandrubber, Visordown and MorBikes

Honda teases three updated 2016 models

Following yesterday’s report of the Honda CRF250 Rally concept heading to production, Honda has officially teased three updated models that it will introduce for the 2016 model year. Revised for the coming year are the CB500F and NC750S naked bikes plus a revised Integra scooter, with all of which reported destined to debut during EICMA 2015 later this month.

Though the teaser images do not reveal much, Honda did release a few details surrounding each. Here’s what you can expect from the refreshed threesome that’s coming in 2016. More is expected as soon as all three debut in Milan later this month.

2016 Honda CB500F

This should come to no surprise after the firm recently released updated 2016 editions of the CB500X and CBR500R. With the F naked, the entire CB500 family refresher is complete for 2015.

Like its X adventure sport and sport-bodied R siblings, the CB500F naked will receive mild cosmetic enhancements. The most prominent of which will be the presence of LED lighting front and aft.

New on board is an adjustable brake lever, as well as a redesigned ‘lightweight’ exhaust silencer, along with a range of six new vibrant colour schemes. Completing the update are the adoption of new pre-load adjustable front forks and a new fuel tank enlarged by 1-litre to 16.7 litres.

2016 Honda NC750S

After its faired-body NC750X adventure sport sibling, the naked Honda NC750S is set to receive similar updates seen in the X. Leading the list of updated features is a new LCD instrument panel with personalised colour options, as well as the adoption of a newly redesigned and shortened pentagon-shaped exhaust that promises a deeper engine note too.

Variants of the NC750S equipped with Honda’s Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) will offer riders with three sporty levels in ‘S’ mode, each devised to suit different riding styles and scenarios. Also, Honda stated that the NC750S’ parallel-twin heart will now meet strict Euro 4 emissions standards.

Completing the update is a mildly revised exterior design accompanied by LED lighting, plus two new special edition two-tone paint schemes as well. The revised NC750S variant completes the NC750 model series’ 2016 revision after the 2016 NC750X revelation not too long ago.

2016 Honda Integra

Last but not least comes the NC750 series’ maxi-scooter offshoot, the Integra. Like its naked and adventure sport sibling, the maxi also gains with a new LCD instrument panel offering personalised colour options. Aesthetic enhancements remains mild but it will include modern LED lighting front and rear.

Besides the promise of an updated and Euro 4 compliant 745cc parallel-twin engine, variants equipped with DCT will offer three sporty levels in ‘S’ mode yet again to suit different riding styles and scenario.

Though the chassis design is retained, Honda did state that the 2016 Integra will gain further with a new set of Showa fork with ‘dual bending valves’.

Sources: Asphaltandrubber, Visordown ( Link 1 / Link 2 / Link 3 ) and MoreBikes.co.uk

2016 Honda NC750X and Honda CB500X unveiled

The mighty red wing marque that is Honda has finally taken the wraps off its two updated-for-2016 adventure sport models. Meet the 2016 Honda NC750X and Honda CB500X twins. Both models were unveiled online ahead of their slated public debut at the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show.

Here are the details we’ve managed to garner as of now.

2016 Honda NC750X

Compared to its previous iteration, the 2016 model sees the NC750X gaining with a facelift. It now looks more rugged and adventurous than before, but we’ll agree if you think the facelift is rather ‘mild’.

Complementing the aesthetic revisions are other updates such as LED lights front and aft, followed by a taller windscreen for increased wind protection, a pair of new Showa ‘dual-bending valve’ forks, as well as increased helmet storage space.

Furthermore, variants primed with Honda’s DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) have gained with additional riding modes for riders to select too.

2016 Honda CB500X

Unveiled alongside its revised big brother is the revised 2016 Honda CB500X. The second of the CB500 range to undergo an update after the CBR500R, exterior changes are once again mild in this mid-sized adventure-sport.

Underneath, revisions here include a 100mm-taller windscreen, LED lighting front and aft, a revised front suspension set with pre-load adjustability and new colour schemes too.

2016 Honda NC750X

2016 Honda CB500X

Sources: Visordown ( Link 1 / Link 2 ) and Moto.it ( Link 1 / Link 2 )

2016 Kawasaki Ninja H2 – a dark sparkle

The supercharged monstrosity known as the Kawasaki Ninja H2 has gained a new paint scheme for its 2016 model year version. The new scheme, which Kawasaki calls “Mirror Coated Spark Black”, gives the Ninja H2 a much more darker stance as a result of the scheme’s blackened-out theme and nature.

Besides this dark new paint job, Kawasaki has not announce any further changes to its supercharged halo bike. Minus the new paint, it is highly likely that the model would remain mechanically unchanged from its current form.

Kawasaki has also yet to confirm if it would continue to offer the Ninja H2’s track-only sibling, the Ninja H2R, throughout 2016 as well.

You can check out the 2016 Kawasaki Ninja H2’s darkened new personality in the gallery we’ve prepared below.