We are anxiously waiting to find out at the EICMA show in Milan, but there have already been enough “leaks” on the internet so that we can put together this short anticipation news.
For starters, there is the all-new KTM Supermoto 990 R, which has just been derived from the already fabulous Supermoto 950, and if it all goes as planned you will be booking yours in March 2009.
Lots of changes are expected to characterize the model, among which we’d like to mention the Super Duke R 999cc LC8 engine and high-performance Brembo brakes featuring monoblock radial-mount calipers as well as the fully-adjustable front and rear suspension systems. Stylistically, a larger gas tank is worth being pointed out.
KTM future plans also include the RC8 1190R, an immediate effect of the original bike’s success. This one is expected to be packed with high-end racing features.
And, last but not least is the Venom, a KTM concept that has been around from 2004. Also expected to be presented as ready for production at Milan, the naked bike is a close cousin of the RC8.
It seems that the Austrian bike manufacturer didn’t rest on its laurels, especially after RC8’s launch and these three bikes will be all-new special additions to an already highly-expanded motorcycle offering.
A.C. Schnitzer radically transforms the already impressive BMW F800GS off-roader into a ready to hit the track hypermotard. The tuners have simply added 17-inch wheels wearing road rubber and retuned the suspensions for street use.
The engine remains the same 800cc unit developing 85 horsepower, as well as the entire bike, except the previous mentioned changes and adjusting. This upgrade, if you will, took place in the German performance shop and it didn’t took more than a few hours once all the parts were there.
Who knows, maybe BMW will be inspired by this creation and add it to their lineup. I sure know it looks good.
For 2009, BMW Motorrad introduces a freshened-up version of the G 650 X Country, the versatile motorcycle that found its place in people’s hearts and garages world wide. The German bike manufacturer considered that the bike doesn’t quite need a heavy revision so it simply made it more comfy, safer and more appealing. > More
CPI’s little 50cc Super Motard and Enduro models grow up both receiving 250cc powerplants, these bikes may prove to be real contenders with high tech materials for the engines and Italian design they are both powerful and beautiful with easy modifications turning them into real track winners in their class. > More
Motorcycling, as you already know, has many sides and all of them are very interesting, but I bet you weren’t expecting to see an adult have this much fun on a mini bike. Well, it does and it is very serious about his ride. Simon lives in the United Kingdom and owns a 140cc Casey Stoner replica machine that finds its place every weekend at the Kinsham Raceway. That is also where the video below was shot.
An incredibly reliable and advanced piece of motoring, the MZ 125 SM is one of the most fun bikes produced by the German manufacturer. Either you like the Blizzard or the Elegance version (both are new for 2008), the bike will become a great initiator in the wonderful worlds of trail and street riding, leaving your schoolmates well behind. > More
With the 2008 Lightning Super TT, Buell delivers an outstanding Supermoto that is meant to make an awful good impression on the streets. The bike aims towards performance so the Buell Thunderstorm 1203cc V-Twin engine is used. In communion with the impressively versatile chassis and the competition look, the powerplant is extremely well valued so we’re in for an interesting ride. > More
A big step forward if marked by 2008 model year for these two models. They both feature the innovative fuel injection system that helps power them even further into the customer’s preferences and together with the new frame, sub-frame and forks, to become the favorite Supermoto rides out there. > More
If you have never raced a Motard before, and even more, if you have never ridden such a bike before, this video will help you get a feel of the blast you will have!
Vincent Guisande, who has installed an onboard helmet camera, finishes the race in second place so I’m leaving you in the hands of one of the best. Good luck!
The new KTM 990 Supermoto sees its own way in the highly acclaimed class as it takes fun and excitement to a whole new level. It benefit of a completely revised and compact LC8 engine fitted on a finely tuned frame so it will take you virtually anywhere. Its imposing stature will always betray it and give a clue on what the rider experiences on the angry-looking thing. > More