Top Speed

KTM 990 Super Duke R

Sulthoni@topspeed.com(Sulthoni), Kirby@topspeed.com(Kirby) — Thu, 9 Feb 2012 21:00:00 GMT

Have you ever pictured what the perfect bike is like? You know, the kind of uncompromising riding machine that, in its purest form, just speaks to how perfect engineering could give birth to something so beautiful?

Open your eyes and you’re looking at the ultra-sporty KTM 990 Super Duke R.

With its muscle-flexing V2 and perfectly controllable power, the 990 Super Duke R has been regarded as the ultimate scourge of the superbike. The bike’s performance capabilities means serious business. After all, when you have a 999cc water-cooled V-engine that packs a powerful punch to the tune of 123 horsepower, you’re controlling a bike that can just wallop anything it sets its eyes on. The 990 Super Duke R’s engine also comes with state-of-the-art four-valve cylinder heads, each with flow-optimized ducts, two overhead camshafts, and an electronic Keihin engine management system that regulates the modern fuel injection system on the 990 Super Duke R, focusing on maximum power, efficient, and spontaneous responsiveness.

As far as handling characteristics are concerned, the 990 Super Duke R’s orange, powder-coated tubular space frame that’s made from chrome-molybdenum steel with a bolted-on, light alloy subframe is as strong and sturdy as any in the market. On top of that, it provides a steeper steering head angle in the "R" setup than the Super Duke and therefore slightly less trail for even greater maneuverability. The sports bike also has an upside-down telescopic fork with TiAlN-coated sliding surfaces and a directly connected shock absorber from WP Suspension with a TiAlN-coated piston rod that allows optimum individual adjustment of the chassis to suit load, riding style, and track.

From front to rear and top to bottom, the 990 Super Duke R possesses the kind of all-world capabilities that makes it a true sports bike in every sense of the word.

Find out more about the KTM 990 Super Duke R after the jump.

KTM 990 Super Duke R originally appeared on topspeed.com on Thursday, 9 February 2012 21:00 EST.

KTM 1190 RC8 R

Sulthoni@topspeed.com(Sulthoni), Kirby@topspeed.com(Kirby) — Thu, 9 Feb 2012 19:00:00 GMT

The baddest bike in the KTM line-up certainly needs no introduction. Not when KTM designers pulled out all the stops to ensure that it keeps its menacing reputation in the industry.

That’s what the 1190 RC8 R is all about. The bike comes loaded with one of the most powerful V2 engines of our times and one of the best chassis in the world. And the best part: the bike is completely street-legal.

The RC8 R not only offers extraordinarily relaxed ergonomics for all its supreme sportiness, but it also comes with more setting options than any other series production super bike, including the footrests, each with two positional variants, the foot levers with variable lever operating angle and lever length, the seats, hand levers, and a two-height adjustable handlebar.

Mechanically speaking, the 1190 RC8 R boasts of an insanely powerful V2 twin-engine that produces a mighty output of 173 horsepower. The KTM engine impresses with an extremely broad rev range and spontaneous throttle response, while supplying supreme ride quality. If you’re looking for reasons as to why the RC8 R has such an impressive engine, look no further than the state-of-the-art cylinder heads with twin plug ignition, flow-optimized ducts and cam follower drive, each with two overhead camshafts for four valves, as well as the electronic Keihin engine management system with twin throttle valves that regulate the modern electronic fuel injection system on the RC8 R. This features focuses on maximum power with predictable engine characteristics and spontaneous responsiveness with controllable throttle response.

Handling is also an important part of the RC8 R package, thanks to an intricately made light alloy swing arm that contributes in providing outstanding traction of the RC8 R. The position of the swingarm can be adjusted by means of an eccentric on the lever linkage, allowing for minimized compression and preventing squatting anytime the bike accelerates out of corners.

Find out more about the KRM 1190 RC8 R after the jump.

KTM 1190 RC8 R originally appeared on topspeed.com on Thursday, 9 February 2012 19:00 EST.

KTM 1190 RC8 R Track

Sulthoni@topspeed.com(Sulthoni), Kirby@topspeed.com(Kirby) — Thu, 9 Feb 2012 17:00:00 GMT

There’s a reason why the KTM 1190 RC8 R Track is being built in strictly limited numbers for those who want to use their machine exclusively for the racetrack.

Built to be "ready to race" by the KTM Racing Division and packed with all the goodies from the KTM PowerParts range that make the potential for race success even greater, the 1190 RC8 R Track is equipped with everything that has made KTM super bikes so successful then, now, and in the future.

The forged piston structure on the RC8 R Track, borrowed from Formula 1, results in a high piston loading capacity, despite the extremely short and lightweight design. This allows the reciprocating weight to be minimized and the responsiveness and free-revving nature of the engine maximized. It also has a racing seat, a multiple-adjustment racing footrest system, and handlebars that can be mounted at two heights and two angles, with subframes mounted at two heights.

The RC8 R Track is the embodiment of a sports bike that packs plenty of punch, courtesy of its 1190cc V-Twin engine that produces a very tasty 177 horsepower. Considered the measure stick of all things for ultra-sporty twins, the RC8 R Track offers maximum performance, predictable characteristics, and high reliability. The KTM engine impresses with an extremely broad rev range and spontaneous throttle response, while supplying supreme ride quality. It also carries an Akrapovic titanium EVO 4 exhaust system that produces optimum torque levels and power progression, to go with weight savings of almost six kilograms. The main reasons for the outstanding performance of the RC8 R Track’s V-twin with 75° cylinder angle are the ultra-modern cylinder heads with flow-optimized ducts and cam follower drive, each with two overhead camshafts for four valves.

Find out more about the KTM 1190 RC8 R Track after the jump.

KTM 1190 RC8 R Track originally appeared on topspeed.com on Thursday, 9 February 2012 17:00 EST.

KTM 125 Duke

Sulthoni@topspeed.com(Sulthoni), Kirby@topspeed.com(Kirby) — Thu, 9 Feb 2012 15:00:00 GMT

KTM’s line-up of Duke bikes has become a staple for a lot of consumers. In particular, for young and up-and-coming riders, the 125 Duke comes chalk full of unique features.

Even if it’s classified as a bike for young people, the 125 Duke has everything that distinguishes a genuine KTM: from the high-quality chassis components to the multi-function cockpit that keeps you up to date with fuel consumption and remaining range. The bike sports a two-piece seat that provides surprising long-distance comfort, perfect support, and first-class ergonomics for rider and pillion. At 810 mm, the seat height is low enough for a secure standing position, but also high enough for sports-oriented use and a genuine big-bike feeling.

The 125 Duke also offers maximum riding fun, thanks to thoroughbred motorcycle technology. The refined four-stroke single cylinder with fuel injection and six-gear transmission provides adequate propulsion while the featherweight chassis with high-quality components and first-class brakes guarantee dynamic cornering fun.

As for the former, the 125 Duke is powered by a state-of-the-art, 125cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder four-stroke engine with twin overhead camshafts, four valves and electronic fuel injection, producing a peak output of 15 horsepower.

As for the latter, that’s been taken care of by a lightweight tubular space frame that’s been built in the mold of KTM’s outstanding design. The bike also has a high-quality upside-down fork from WP Suspension that has the same 43 mm outer tube diameter as the RC8 R.

Every which way you look at it, upstart riders will be enamored with the 125 Duke. Then again, we already knew that.

Find out more about the KTM 125 Duke after the jump.

KTM 125 Duke originally appeared on topspeed.com on Thursday, 9 February 2012 15:00 EST.

KTM 525 XC

Sulthoni@topspeed.com(Sulthoni), Kirby@topspeed.com(Kirby) — Thu, 9 Feb 2012 13:00:00 GMT

Time and again, ATVs are built with a number of features to serve a variety of purposes, not the least of which is a versatility that allows it to be used on both public and off-road trails. The Enduro-Quad KTM 525 XC is a fully-fledged sports machine that has set new standards in the cross-country scene, and in the process has become one of the most popular ATVs in the market today.

With extremely powerful performance and perfect handling, the 525 XC is an offroad powerhouse on four wheels that is unrivaled in its class, bursting with energy, and very lightweight. A big reason why the 525 XC is a notch above every other ATV is its homologation for use on public roads, which not a lot of ATVs can boast of. Aside from lights and mirrors, the corresponding equipment includes a comfortable seat and a 13.4 liter long-range fuel tank to reduce the frequency of breaks when out on tour.

On top of that, the ATV also carries a powerful, liquid-cooled four-stroke, single-cylinder engine that features an extremely wide usable rev range, with a close-ratio, five-speed transmission, hydraulic clutch, and a proven 34 mm Keihin carburetor. The 525 XC’s small lightweight electric starter activates the four-stroke single cylinder reliably and quickly, lessening the longstanding delays that other ATVs might experience.

One other unique detail about the 525 XC is a chassis that can be set for various types of use and different types of course. Camber and caster on the front axle are just as variable as the track on the rear. The shock absorbers have adjustable compression and rebound damping, as well as spring preload, which makes for an all-around versatile endure ATV that just speaks to the prospective owners everywhere.

Find out more about the KTM 525 XC after the jump.

KTM 525 XC originally appeared on topspeed.com on Thursday, 9 February 2012 13:00 EST.

KTM 990 SM R

Sulthoni@topspeed.com(Sulthoni), Kirby@topspeed.com(Kirby) — Wed, 8 Feb 2012 17:00:00 GMT

Don’t be fooled by the bare-as-bones design of the KTM 990 SM R; it’s got more meat than its look suggests.

Dynamic, powerful, and extremely comfortable, the 990 SM R combines a perfectly balanced chassis with a state-of-the-art V2 engine to create a bike that exudes versatility and all-around awesomeness. So is it safe to say that the 990 SM R is the most radical twin-cylinder Supermoto on the market?

Take into account the bike’s water-cooled V-engine that produces 114 horsepower and an intelligent design principle with multi-function balancer shaft, two qualities that make it one of the lightest and most compact V2s in its class. The engine, by itself, impresses with explosiveness and instantaneous throttle response. Add that to lightweight pistons and connecting rods that bestow the 990 SM R’s V2 engine with reduced reciprocated weight and it translates into instantaneous responsiveness, underlining its extremely sporty engine characteristics and further proving that the 990 SM R is one bike that rides as good as it looks.

Adding to the overall appeal of the 990 SM R is a tubular space frame that’s made from thin-walled chrome-molybdenum steel tubing with a bolted-on, light alloy subframe that only weighs 9.5 kg/21 lbs, yet it impresses with exemplary torsional stiffness. Thanks to multiple setting options, the upside-down telescopic fork and the directly connected shock absorber from WP Suspension allow optimum individual adjustment of the chassis to suit riding style, track, and load.

Find out more about the KTM 990 SM R after the jump.

KTM 990 SM R originally appeared on topspeed.com on Wednesday, 8 February 2012 17:00 EST.

KTM 505 SX

Sulthoni@topspeed.com(Sulthoni), Kirby@topspeed.com(Kirby) — Wed, 8 Feb 2012 15:00:00 GMT

There comes a point in time when you just need to get an ATV that works on all corners. In these instances, you can’t do any better than the KTM 505 SX.

The Motocross-Quad 505 SX is a thoroughbred racing machine and uncompromisingly designed to be as great as KTM’s line of MX motorcycles. Every single detail of the 505 SX has been meticulously designed, from the elaborate ergonomics to the multi-adjustable chassis and the extraordinary pull of the engine.

The backbone of the 505 SX’s unrivaled low weight of only 165 kg/363 lbs makes for an extremely light ATV. Combine that with an exceptionally robust frame made from high-strength, powder-coated chrome-molybdenum steel with a bolted on light-alloy rear end and double-butted rear axle made from high-strength steel, and you have a machine that’s built to be as tough an durable as any ATV on the market today.

More than just its sturdy design, the 505 SX is also the picture of exceptional performance, thanks in large part to its 477cc iquid-cooled, DOHC, four-stroke, single-cylinder engine that brings its sensational power to bear on the rear wheels via a hydraulic clutch and close-ratio five-speed transmission. In conjunction with low vehicle weight and the low center of gravity, the powerful DOHC racing engine ensures exceptional performance on every track.

The ATV’s suspension set-up also demonstrates just how impressive of a ride the 505 SX really is. Whether it be the WP suspension components, the Magura hydraulics, Nerf bars, tether switch, DWT Beadlock light-alloy wheels on the rear axle, or Maxxis cross tires all round, the 505 SX is equipped with a plethora of features that makes ATV racing as safe and as fun as it really is.

Find out more about the KTM 505 SX after the jump.

KTM 505 SX originally appeared on topspeed.com on Wednesday, 8 February 2012 15:00 EST.

Kawasaki Mule 4010 Trans4x4 Camo

Sulthoni@topspeed.com(Sulthoni), Kirby@topspeed.com(Kirby) — Fri, 3 Feb 2012 14:00:00 GMT

The perfect vehicle for every hunting party has to be one that doesn’t draw attention to itself. For all the right reasons, that’s what the Kawasaki Mule 4010 Trans4x4 Camo is all about.

Spacious enough to carry as much as four of your buddies for the weekly hunting trips, the Mule 4010 Trans4x4 Camo was built with an ingenious design that allows the utility vehicle to transform from a two-person tool and gear hauler into a four-person transport. When flexibility is required, the Mule 4010 4x4 can provide.

What makes this utility vehicle different from the rest is its stealthy Realtree APG HD camouflage coating, allowing the Mule to blend effortlessly to the environment. And best of all, it’s not all about aesthetics too; this is one Kawasaki that also has plenty of power to spare.

If the Mule 4010 4x4’s liquid-cooled 617cc four-stroke V-twin engine isn’t impressive enough, the fact that its managed by a digital Electronic Control Unit (ECU) and features a DFI system that compensates for variations in atmospheric pressure, engine, and air temperature makes it a true versatile workhorse - or work-mule. The engine’s specific configuration makes for smooth and consistent engine starting, crisp throttle response, and more precise fuel metering, helping reduce fuel consumption and emissions. The powerful 617cc V-twin engine is then mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that features both high and low range plus reverse, providing the kind of versatile ride hunters need when they’re out on their expeditions.

Any way you look at it, the Mule 4010 Trans4x4 Camo is an outstanding choice for just about any utility vehicle need. The bold styling, complemented by an outdoor-motif graphic package and an impressive powertrain system, makes it a true must-have for all your outdoor adventures.

Find out more about the Kawasakai Mule 4010 Trans4x4 Camo after the jump

Kawasaki Mule 4010 Trans4x4 Camo originally appeared on topspeed.com on Friday, 3 February 2012 14:00 EST.

Kawasaki Mule 4010 Trans4x4 Diesel

Sulthoni@topspeed.com(Sulthoni), Kirby@topspeed.com(Kirby) — Fri, 3 Feb 2012 11:00:00 GMT

The Kawasaki Mule 4010 Trans4x4 Diesel is neither fancy nor is it flashy, but one ’f’ that it does have is functional. With a high-torque diesel engine, amazing durability, and the ability to easily transform from a two-person gear hauler to a four-person transport, the 2012 Kawasaki Mule 4010 Trans4x4 Diesel gives you everything you need in an RUV without having to look pretty to do it.

You only need to look at the Mule’s design to easily say that it won’t win any beauty pageants. But as far as productivity is concerned, the Mule stands out from the rest of the pack. In terms of performance, the Mule 4010 Trans4x4 Diesel is far from its namesake. It’s got a 953cc liquid-cooled, three-cylinder diesel engine produces 38.3 lb-ft of torque at 2,800 rpm, all while coming with exceptional fuel efficiency. This powerful and torquey three-cylinder engine works extremely well with a selectable four-wheel drive while an electric power steering (EPS) system, a fully automatic transmission, and a locking rear differential make up the rest of the Mule Trans4x4 Diesel’s outstanding performance credentials.

The Kawasaki Mule 4010 Trans4x4 Diesel comes with equally impressive chassis and suspension capabilities. Stiffer springs prevent bottoming and increase ground clearance, allowing for a comfortable ride and excellent load-carrying capability while overload-style leaf springs provide a comfortable unladen ride and durability even under heavy loads.

If you’re looking for a pretty RUV, the Mule 4010 Trans4x4 isn’t for you. But if you’re looking for something that does everything else extremely well, then this Suzuki RUV is waiting to be fetched.

Find our more about the Kawasaki Mule 4010 Trans4x4 Diesel after the jump.

Kawasaki Mule 4010 Trans4x4 Diesel originally appeared on topspeed.com on Friday, 3 February 2012 11:00 EST.

Kawasaki Teryx 750 FI 4x4 LE SGE

Kirby@topspeed.com(Kirby), Sulthoni@topspeed.com(Sulthoni) — Fri, 3 Feb 2012 09:00:00 GMT

If driving the multi-purpose Kawasaki Teryx 750 FI 4x4 isn’t fancy enough for you, then we suggest you opt for the same machine that’s been wrapped up in a more colorful package. That’s what you get with the Teryx 750 4x4FI LE Special Graphics Edition. Already gifted with cool extras that are standard equipment, the Teryx LE SGE comes with custom graphics straight from the Kawasaki factory. Two different color variations of the hydro-dipped film overlay graphic come with a hand-painted hot-rod flame pattern, adding even more flavor to the already cool RUV.

Outside of the special graphics, everything about the Teryx 750 FI 4x4 LE SGE remains the same to its siblings, including all the luxury touches that include a cab roof, a deflector windshield, and the retractable cup holder.

Power is also a key ingredient on the Teryx, which boasts of a 749cc 90-degree eight-valve V-twin engine that packs plenty of power across a wide rpm range, but also provides unmatched smoothness. This engine is matched up with an advanced digital fuel injection system offering automatic elevation compensation, automatic idle adjustment, and easy, choke-free starting via a sophisticated array of sensors for inlet air pressure, throttle position, crankshaft position, rpm, and water temperature.

As far as handling is concerned, the Teryx 750 FI 4x4 LE SGE has an up-standard chassis and suspension design that’s built for the roughest and toughest of terrains. The RUV’s wide-track frame uses large-diameter, thin-walled tubing to combine tremendous rigidity with light weight while a long-travel four-wheel independent suspension, adjustable Kayaba gas-charged shocks at all four corners, a rear stabilizer bar, and mid-ship engine placement all work together to tame even the most difficult of trails.

Find out more about the Kawasaki Teryx 750 FI 4x4 LE SGE after the jump.

Kawasaki Teryx 750 FI 4x4 LE SGE originally appeared on topspeed.com on Friday, 3 February 2012 09:00 EST.

Suzuki Boulevard C50T Classic

Sulthoni@topspeed.com(Sulthoni), Kirby@topspeed.com(Kirby) — Thu, 2 Feb 2012 17:00:00 GMT

The Suzuki Boulevard C50T Classic is throwback cruiser that offers plenty of new-world technology. That’s an ideal recipe for anybody who wants a mix of both schools, especially if they can have them in one awesome package.

In terms of style, the Boulevard looks the part of a classic cruiser, complete with bold styling that stands out in a crowd. The huge body of the cruiser belies its long and low rigid-look frame. The design of the bike incorporates timeless laid-back style in the cruiser heritage, complete with rich paintwork, glittering chrome, and deep front and rear fenders with rounded ends. The bike also has a wide passenger seat that makes for comfortable two-up rides, especially for riders that like going on those long-distance joyrides.

At the heart of the Boulevard C50T Classic is a 805 cc four-stroke, SOHC V-Twin engine that comes with a compression ratio of 9.4:1 and mated to a wide-ratio five-speed transmission that features a high fifth gear ratio for relaxed highway cruising. A critical part of the engine is a 32-bit ECM that provides precise control of ignition timing and multi-hole-type injectors while ensuring quick starts and excellent drivability under all conditions. The bike also features Suzuki’s own Dual Throttle Valve (DTV) electronic fuel-injection system that maintains optimum air velocity in the intake tract for smooth low-to mid-RPM throttle response.

As far as handling is concerned, the Boulevard C50T Classic comes with a link-type rear suspension that has been shaped to mimic the hard-tail lines of a traditional cruiser, connecting a truss-style swing arm and a single shock absorber with 7-way spring preload adjustabililty providing 4.1" of smooth and response suspension travel.

As with most Suzuki cruisers, the Boulevard C50T Classic has the ideal blend of style, performance, and handling characteristics. All together, they lead to a bike that’s a cut above the rest in its own market.

Find out more about the Suzuki Boulevard C50T Classic after the jump.

Suzuki Boulevard C50T Classic originally appeared on topspeed.com on Thursday, 2 February 2012 17:00 EST.

Suzuki DR650SE

Sulthoni@topspeed.com(Sulthoni), Kirby@topspeed.com(Kirby) — Thu, 2 Feb 2012 14:00:00 GMT

The 2012 Suzuki DR650SE wants us to think that it’s a bike that comes with a new style and the civilized capabilities of a street bike with the hard-charging performance and exceptional handling of a dirt bike. To that, we believe every last word the Suzuki is saying.

The DR650SE is a versatile motocross bike with a high-performance engine hardcore riders enjoy. Combine that with a chassis and a suspension set-up that takes cues from its super moto and motocross heritage, and you have a machine that can tackle just about every imaginable surface.

At the heart of the DR650SE is a compact and powerful 644cc, SOHC, four-stroke, air-cooled, engine that features Suzuki’s Advanced Cooling System (SACS). Piston-jet cooling and an engine oil cooler that further enhances the bike’s consistent and all-world performance capabilities in a wide variety of conditions. Likewise, the engine has been tuned with an emphasis on powerful performance at low-to-mid RPM range while a gear-driven single counter balancer system minimizes engine vibration for comfortable ride. Finally, a smooth-shifting wide-ratio 5-speed transmission is complemented by an O-ring sealed final drive chain.

To go with its impressive engine credentials, the Suzuki DR650SE also handles like a true pro, highlighted by innovative cartridge front forks that provide smooth and progressive action. The bike also has a link-type rear suspension with a piggyback-style shock absorber and adjustable compression damping to give stable damping performance with front and rear suspensions, both of which provide 10.2" of wheel travel for superb performance over rough terrain.

On the road and off the road, the DR650SE shines like the sun on a hot summer day. Its unique blend of top-end performance with superior handling and all-around versatility make it a bike that’s well worth your affection.

Find out more about the Suzuki DR650SE after the jump.

Suzuki DR650SE originally appeared on topspeed.com on Thursday, 2 February 2012 14:00 EST.

Kawasaki Mule 4010 4x4 Diesel

Sulthoni@topspeed.com(Sulthoni), Kirby@topspeed.com(Kirby) — Thu, 2 Feb 2012 11:00:00 GMT

Hardworking environments often need an ATV that runs on diesel power. That’s why, for tough situations, Kawasaki is offering the Mule 4010 4x4 Diesel. Whatever predicament you find yourself in, the Mule 4010 4x4 Diesel has the power and meat to make quick work of just about any task.

Producing substantial torque at low engine rpm, the Mule 4010 4x4 Diesel’s liquid-cooled, 953cc three-cylinder diesel engine is matched to a Kawasaki Automatic Power-Drive System (KAPS) continuously variable transmission (CVT) that features a high and low range and reverse function. It also helps maintain engine rpm in its most efficient range for any selected vehicle speed, load, or terrain. All these mechanisms allow the Mule 4010 4x4 Diesel to perform under any condition.

Besides its diesel-powered engine and convenient selectable four-wheel drive system, the Mule 4010 4x4 Diesel also boasts of a full-sized chassis, reliable digital fuel injection, electric power steering (EPS) system, fully automatic transmission, locking rear differential, and a tilting cargo bed.

The ATV’s durability is further aided by cooling the torque converter with filtered air that’s coursed through a special air cleaner using an easily replaceable filter element and an efficient intake cooling fan to draw sufficient air into the CVT.

The electric power steering (EPS) system that’s been added to the Mule 4010 4x4 also aids in providing a more controlled ride by reducing steering effort at low speeds while also using input from vehicle speed and torque sensors to determine how much assistance is needed from the system’s electric motor. Other standard features of the Mule 4010 4x4 Diesel include an hour meter, a horn on the dash, a gauge on the fuel tank, and an intake restriction gauge to indicate when the air filter needs to be cleaned or replaced.

Find out more about the Kawasaki Mule 4010 4x4 Diesel after the jump.

Kawasaki Mule 4010 4x4 Diesel originally appeared on topspeed.com on Thursday, 2 February 2012 11:00 EST.

Kawasaki Mule 4010 4x4

Sulthoni@topspeed.com(Sulthoni), Kirby@topspeed.com(Kirby) — Thu, 2 Feb 2012 09:00:00 GMT

Whenever a job calls for some serious ATV action, the Kawasaki Mule 4010 4x4 is here to save the day. The Mule 4010 4x4 is loaded with great features to help you get to the job site and get things done. It’s not meant to win any design awards, but in terms of all-around versatility, the Mule 4010 4x4 holds a back seat to no one.

Besides its convenient selectable four-wheel drive system, the Mule 4010 4x4 also boasts of a full-sized chassis, reliable digital fuel injection, electric power steering (EPS) system, fully automatic transmission, locking rear differential, and a tilting cargo bed. Pretty cool, right?

Leading things of is a liquid-cooled 617cc V-twin engine that is managed by a digital Electronic Control Unit (ECU) and is fed by a fuel injection system, compensating for variations in atmospheric pressure, engine, and air temperature. This allows the Mule 4010 to have consistent starts and ultra-precise fuel metering, two traits that only reduces fuel consumption, but also limits unwarranted emissions. The ECU also regulates top engine speed, which means the Mule doesn’t need a mechanical governor.

The Mule’s power is transmitted through a dependable, low-maintenance shaft drive system to a dual-mode rear differential that can be locked to maximize traction or unlocked to improve handling and minimize ground disturbance when negotiating tight turns.

As far as handling is concerned, the Mule 4010 4x4 has a roomy cab that’s surrounded by a large-diameter steel tube frame structure. With its rugged and modern bodywork, coupled with a MacPherson strut long-travel front suspension that provides a comfortable ride and excellent load-carrying capability, the Mule 4010 4x4 is a natural choice compared to other ATVS in the market.

Find out more about the Kawasaki Mule 4010 4x4 after the jump.

Kawasaki Mule 4010 4x4 originally appeared on topspeed.com on Thursday, 2 February 2012 09:00 EST.

Triumph Rocket III Touring

Sulthoni@topspeed.com(Sulthoni), Kirby@topspeed.com(Kirby) — Wed, 1 Feb 2012 20:00:00 GMT

A classic touring cruiser needs to exude the kind of attitude that tells everybody it means serious business. Any which way you look at it, the Triumph Rocket III Touring is all that and more.

Combining classic touring cruiser style with the awesome performance of the legendary 2.3-liter Rocket III engine, the Rocket III Touring has been designed specifically for riders who demand serious long-haul capabilities.

In terms of its design, the Rocket III Touring stands loud and proud. The cruiser comes in two classic color options: Metallic Phantom Black with hand-painted silver coachlines or a two-tone Phantom Black with Crystal White infills and gold coachlines. Teardrop-shaped rider and passenger footboards are also standard features, while a long list of optional fittings, including alternative touring screens, sissy bars, racks and auxiliary lighting, make this already distinctive motorcycle even more striking. The well-appointed seat of the Rocket III is constructed using two separate layers of cushioning of different densities, providing for a comfortable ride in any capacity.

Inside this beautiful mix of metal and chrome is Triumph’s iconic 2,294cc triple engine, delivering 150 lb/ft of torque at 2,000 rpm and tuned specifically for the needs of the touring rider. The engine delivers a mighty 150 lb-ft. of torque through the low-maintenance shaft drive system. Triumph has also endowed the Rocket III Touring with its advanced anti-lock braking system, offering additional security for riders.

The Rocket III Touring’s chassis has been developed specifically to offer a nimble ride, which is helped by the bike’s low center of gravity, 16" wheels, and 180 section rear tire. The finely tuned suspension has been developed with comfort and control in mind, while practicality is enhanced with the standard fitment of a quick-release screen and 36-liter saddlebags.

Find out more about the Triumph Rocket III Touring after the jump.

Triumph Rocket III Touring originally appeared on topspeed.com on Wednesday, 1 February 2012 20:00 EST.