2008 Kawasaki Ninja 250R

UPDATES
There are speculations that USA will get the carb version of the new Ninja 250R, while the European and Japanese versions will the Fuel Injection (FI) engine. We will keep updating you on this as we get the official news.
In the meantime, here are two pictures, taken on 27th August. Notice the ZZR-1400 (ZX-14) colour option behind the silver ZZR?

The Old Ninja vs the New one..

We did love the old Ninja 250R and for good reasons, but there is no doubt it looked too bland.

Here is a comparison of both the bikes.

Looks:

If we were to rate the looks of the new bike on a scale of 10, we would definately give it a 10. And 5 for the old one! That lovely fairing from the bigger Ninja 650R, good looking upswept exhaust, pillion seat cover, petal discs, awesome alloys, everything lends it own bit to make this 250R look the best in its class but a HUGE margain!

Engine:

We also know the engine has been retuned a bit, and although detailed technical specifications have yet to be announced, but the new machine’s power is expected to be in the region of 45bhp – with the firm saying owners will be surprised by power at high revs. The old one did top the 100mph (160 km/h) mark and this one will atleast do 110 mph (176 km/h).

Acceleration wise, the old Ninja 250R shamed quite a few sports car, with a 0-60mph (96km/h) timing of 5.75 secs and a 14.6 sec quater mile timing. We can only expect the new one to do this better.

To support the above fact, we have come to know that dual overhead camshafts have been revised and a new 2-into-1 exhaust system is in place for more low and mid-range torque from the dual-carbureted 249cc DOHC parallel twin-cylinder engine. Add in refined intake and exhaust ports for improved off-idle response and smooth power delivery. Also, reduced engine noise via an automatically adjusting cam chain tensioner.

As of now, we dont have pictures of how the new Ninja 250R's instrumentation will look like. Stay tuned for more!

A hike of $500 for this? Its peanuts!

More pictures

Compact size, exceptional personality and a low price tag highlight Kawasaki's new Ninja 250R quarter-liter performer. Considering how much fun it is to ride and the fact that it's the only 250cc sportbike sold in the U.S., it's no wonder the Ninja 250R has been a strong seller for over a decade. Its successful blend of a rider-friendly engine, easy-to-operate chassis and supersport styling worthy of its Ninja moniker, this model was developed to offer real world performance to riders of all skill levels and goes to show that good things do come in small packages.

LOOKS:
One look at the new Ninja 250R tells everyone that this bike is the genuine article. With a new full-fairing similar to the Ninja ZX-6R and -10R supersport bikes, a single kicked-up muffler, UNI-TRAK rear suspension, high-performance petal disc brakes and a dual seat, this is the most stylish performer in its category.

ENGINE:
At the core of the lightweight Ninja 250R is an engine that thrives on high-rpm excitement. The gutsy 249cc parallel twin has been retuned to spice up its smooth and predictable power delivery. It now offers more low- and mid-range torque thanks to revisions to its dual overhead camshafts and a new 2-into-1 exhaust system. A silky smooth six-speed transmission tops off the sportbike equipment list, enabling the 250R to exploit a powerband that's sure to please riders with its beginner friendly low-end grunt and a lively top-end rush that'll keep seasoned veterans satisfied. The coup de' grace, is its ability to deliver excellent fuel economy.

BODY WORK, RUNNING PARTS, OTHER FEATURES:

The 250R's new fairing and windscreen not only look great, they deliver improved wind protection for a wide range of riding situations. This lightweight sportbike is loaded with even more rider-friendly features such as an easy-to-read instrument panel and positive neutral finder.

A natural riding position and comfortable ergonomics combined with its lightweight handling, easy controllability and improved throttle response make the 250R a pleasure to ride on city streets.

• Also new for 2008 are larger 17-inch wheels that offer great handling and improved stability.
• A larger 290mm front brake rotor is gripped by a powerful 2-piston caliper to provide a healthy dose of stopping power with a responsive feel at the lever. Like Kawasaki's other sport models, the Ninja 250R is fitted with petal discs for efficient heat dissipation.

The simple formula of providing easy-handling agility, lightweight responsiveness, and low ownership costs make the Ninja 250R a force to be reckoned with in the entry-level sportbike category.

MSRP: $3499

The revered Kawasaki Ninja 250R has been around forever, or so it seems. We've touted the small-displacement Ninja as the ideal mount for beginners, with our only complaint about the bargain Kwakker being its somewhat outdated styling. Kawasaki must have been listening because the 250R is back for 2008 with a styling facelift, making it look more like its sport Ninja siblings. Other changes include larger 17-inch wheels and 290mm front brake rotors. The little Ninja's engine has also received some mods as well, retuned for more low- to mid-range torque courtesy of tweaked camshafts and new 2-into-1 exhaust.

The MSRP is $3499, a steal, considering the way the bike looks.

Kymco Myroad 700i : Worlds most powerful scooter?

The worlds most powerful scooter, the Kymco Myroad 700i, was launched very recently.
It is squarely aimed at the sports touring market with it centralised perimeter frame.

ENGINE:
A first for Kymco is an all new parallel twin cylinder engine running 8 valves and fuel injection. This will put power somewhere in the vicinity of 55 kw / 73 BHP and top speed will be in the 170 km/h ball park.

SUSPENSION:
But it’s not all about the motor with the new Kymco. The Myroad 700i features fully automatic rear suspension that is adjustable from the dashboard as well as a keyless start system.

OTHER FEATURES:
And if that’s not enough it has a triple stacked H4 headlight and led blinkers along with 280 mm twin discs up front and a massive 260 mm disc on the rear.

2008 Yamaha YZF-R125

This one is definately a shocker : The all new 2008 Yamaha YZF-R125 motorcycle which will go head to head with the top-selling Honda CBR125R.

ENGINE:
The Yamaha YZF-R125 uses an all-new liquid-cooled 124cc, four-valve, short-stroke single cylinder engine, which is claimed to be the most powerful 125cc four-stroke motorcycle available. It has a six-speed gearbox and fuel injection, and a Yamaha YZF-R6 style stubby exhaust with twin catalysts is fitted.

CHASSIS AND RUNNING PARTS
A full size Deltabox beam frame is used to make the Yamaha YZF-R125 feel and ride closer to a full size bike than the Honda CBR125R, and an aluminium ‘banana’ style swingarm, 33mm diameter forks and a 292mm brake disc/Brembo caliper and wide tyres complete the mini-sportsbike chassis.

STYLING:
The styling is close to the new 2008 Yamaha YZF-R6 – the short tail and aggressive looking twin headlight fairing are almost indistinguishable from the 600 at distance. Colours are blue/black, red/white, grey/black or yellow/black.

SPECIFICATIONS:
Engine type : Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, 4-valve, single cylinder, SOHC
Displacement: 124.66 cc
Bore x stroke : 52.0 x 58.6 mm
Compression ratio : 11.2:1
Maximum power : 11.0 kW (15 PS) @ 9,000 rpm
Maximum torque : 12.24 Nm (1,25 kg-m) @ 8,000 rpm
Lubrication system: Wet sump
Fuel System : Fuel injection
Clutch type : Wet, multiple-disc coil springIgnition systemTCI
Starter system : Electric
Transmission system : Constant mesh, 6-speed
Final transmission : Chain
Fuel tank capacity: 13.8 L
Oil tank capacity ; 1.15 L
Chassis: Steel Deltabox
Front suspension system: Telescopic forks
Front travel : 130 mm
Rear suspension system :Swingarm (monocross)
Rear travel : 125 mm
Front brake: Single disc, Ø 292 mm
Rear brake ; Single disc, Ø 230 mm
Front tyre : 100/80-17 M/C
Rear tyre : 130/70-17 M/CDimensions-
Length : 2,015 mm
Width : 660 mm
Height : 970 mm
Seat height : 818 mm
Wheel base : 1,355 mm
Minimum ground clearance : 155 mm
Dry weight : 126.5 kg

2008 Yamaha XT660Z

.See more pictures of the Tenere here







Yamaha has got back the iconic660 Tenere Paris-Daker replica motorcycle and that too with an all new design!

The 2008 Yamaha XT660Z Tenere uses the 660cc liquid-cooled single from the Yamaha XT660X in a brand new steel cradle frame, which is equipped with long-travel right-way up front forks and a sculpted aluminium rear swingarm and monoshock. Twin 298mm discs and Brembo brakes stop the motorcycle, and on/off road tyres hint that the motorcycle isn’t just off-road style – it should be capable of handling trail riding and anything an around the world trip will throw at it.

The motorcycle is equipped with a huge 22-litre fuel tank, which is placed under the seat to make the riding position more comfortable with less between the rider’s legs. The tall fairing, large dual seat, luggage rack and spacious riding position are all there to attract commuters and around the world adventurers alike.

A full range of accessories will also be available – luggage, bash plates and practical parts such as centre stands are all aimed at long-distance and on/off road use.
The motorcycle will initially available in white with red Yamaha ‘speed blocks’, khaki or black/grey. Prices are yet to be announced

2008 Yamaha R6 : USA colors

American buyers can opt for a Yamaha R6 in solid black or silver, blue (without the gold wheels available in Europe), or a lairy yellow flame paintscheme.

2008 Yamaha R1

Yamaha has unveiled the 2008 Yamaha R1 - and although the motorcycle has not been radically changed, it does come in a choice of three new colour schemes.

The 2008 Yamaha R1 is available in blue, white or black. The blue option also comes with gold wheels for the first time.

2008 Yamaha R6

The new 2008 YZF-R6 gets a complete workover:

-it gets a new frame and swingarm

-reworked 599cc engine

-new slipper clutch

-improved front brakes

- better, aerodynamic bodywork.

Yamaha is claiming the changes have made the 2008 Yamaha R6 the most advanced production 600 class motorcycle it has ever made.

ENGINE:

The engine has titanium valves, increased compression ratio from 12.8:1 to 13.1:1 for improved response. It also gets new domed pistons with valve cutouts to produce a more compact combustion chamber.
The Yamaha R6 now gets the same YCC-I (Yamaha Chip-Controlled Intake) system found on the Yamaha YZF-R1 which is a variable-length intake system that boosts power at high revs by lengthening the inlet tracts to increase the amount of air entering the engine. The full Yamaha explanation is below.

Other engine enhancements have centred around reducing the amount of internal friction with a claimed 50 changes inside the motor – including wider crank bearings.
The twin-injection system has been remapped to suit the higher compression ratio for better throttle response and reduced engine braking and also has a redesigned airbox and a new-shape rear exhaust silencer.

CHASSIS/Other Parts

Yamaha has become the first manufacturer to introduce a magnesium alloy subframe with the aim of taking weight off the back of the motorcycle to improve the mass centralisation of the motorcycle. The firm says it saves 450g over the previous aluminium alloy subframe.

For 2008 the thickness of the twin 310mm diameter front discs has been increased from 4.5mm to 5.0mm, a change which improves the heat dissipation qualities during extended use.

Available colours: Blue, White, Grey

YCC-I (YAMAHA CHIP-CONTROLLED INTAKE)

The YCC-I system made its highly successful debut on the 2007 model Yamaha YZF-R1, and for the 2008 season Yamaha have further increased the performance on the latest Yamaha R6 with the application of this high-tech intake system.

The sophisticated YCC-I system consists of four lightweight plastic resin funnels, and each of these is divided into an upper and lower portion which form a single funnel when in normal use.

However, when the ECU detects that the Yamaha R6 engine speed exceeds a specific rpm, and that the throttle opening is also above a specific level, the funnel portions separate so that the shorter lower part functions as an intake funnel, making the longer upper funnel redundant. The actual movement of the funnels is performed instantaneously by an electrically controlled servo-motor which handles the function so smoothly that the rider is unaware it is happening. And because the actual YCC-I components are light, compact and relatively simple, the whole system is effective and reliable, and is maintenance-free.

The new YCC-I system works with the existing YCC-T (Yamaha Chip-Controlled Throttle) to optimise the effectiveness of the fuel injection system and deliver an incredibly precise volume of fuel/air mix to this high performance engine. The remarkable degree of control achieved by the Yamaha R6’s intake system gives improved low to mid-range torque, and also enhances the power feeling in the higher rpm band. In effect, the YCC-I and YCC-T work together to expand the engine’s power band, making the 2008 model Yamaha R6 an even stronger and more exciting performer, offering higher levels of easier-to-use power right across the rev range.

2008 Kawasaki Ninja 250R spotted! Pictures

UPDATED : THE 2010 NINJA 250R HAS BEEN LAUNCHED IN INDIA. SEE HERE

OMG OMG OMG

The little Ninja has been one my fav little 'superbikes' out there and Kawasaki are finally giving it an all new life.
This pictures were taken when some officials were conducting a little photoshoot of this baby Ninja 250 in Barcelona, Spain.
According to sources, the motor would have been a bicylindrical one, and up front (fairing), Kawasaki have taken clues from the Z750S.

Insiders also believe that the bikew will come with an upgraded suspension, FI and all this will push the MSRP to over $4000. Whatever the price, this little beauty really looks hot!

Thanks to Cycle Posers for the pics

2008 Kawasaki ZX-10R : Finally!

(Image courtesy, MC USA forums)

Yes, this is the real thing : the 2008 Kawasaki ZX-10R !

Good or bad, thats for you to decide. We are also awaiting the official 2008 Yamaha model line up, which happens in some hours. Stay tuned for more!

Thanks to my friend Synn for the pics

2008 Yamama Motorcycles

The 2008 Yamaha model line up :

The Yamaha V-MAX : Confirmed, 2008 model it is!

One to one with the Yamaha guys:

Raptors and Rockets

It did not help that Yamaha asked in their online survey whether we would prefer a big displacement, big horsepower muscle bike. One of the questions was whether we would want it to be 200hp+. Yes we do! The displacement is not ready yet either, but as we know that this bike will not be purely about horsepower, we expect a bigger than usual displacement too. The current engine in the concept looks like a big boy already, but there has been speculation from 1400cc to 1800cc in the new V4.

Whatever Yamaha decides in the end, the Vmax is about muscle, pure muscle and nothing else. In the US the concept has already been branded under the Star motorcycles cruiser division. So in essence the Vmax is looked upon by Yamaha as a muscle or power cruiser. And if that continues through to the end it will be more powerful than any other muscle cruiser currently on the market. We know that it will be powerful, just look at the six pot radial brakes that also graces the 2007 R1 created to stop the beast. Then look at the double radiator/oil-cooler unit and the serious looking swingarm and frame. The double cone shaped mufflers look menacing too.

The Vmax concept was recently showcased for the very first time outside of Japan to the US public. Long Beach and the Cycle World International motorcycle show was the venue chosen. For a long time we thought we would also get to see it at the EICMA show in Milan, but internal European Yamaha-motors politics stopped that from happening. One country in Europe did not wish to see the Vmax on the floor yet. This was due to beliefs in that country that the new Vmax would compete with the existing air-cooled MT-01 model. We think they screwed up and imported too many MT-01’s. However nice the MT-01 is, it is far away from the Vmax concept. The Vmax stands for true muscle and power-A performance cruiser that actually has been made to destroy anything else on two wheels in a straight line. The ruling country for such a bike is without doubt the US. So whilst we were in the US we spoke to Derek Brooks, the Motorcycle Product Planning Manager in Yamaha Motor USA.

What can you tell us about the concept now compared to last year?

“Nothing different. It is still kind of the American muscle car, typical American muscle car type image. To clarify, it was built in Japan but based on the US concept, US project.”

Did the Japanese engineers contact you to finalise the design?

“Oh sure, yes.”

Still a big bad V4?

“At this point it is still purely a concept. The benefit of doing this, of course we did it in Japan originally, but having the bike on display here in the US we can listen to feedback and get comments on style, expectations for power and handling. This is a good chance to get feedback for us.”

Why Star for the Vmax and not Yamaha as the original is well known as a Yamaha?

“The original Vmax concept was really before the huge explosion of American cruisers. But its concept was very much cruiser original. So that was back in the days you know Virago and then Vmax-Very much a Hot Rod, cruiser type bike. And Star being our Cruiser brand, it actually makes sense. Even with Star though, even all of our Star bikes have Yamaha casings, on the back fender and on the engine. So we are not trying to mislead anyone by saying this is not a Yamaha but a Star. We liken it more to kind of the Toyota/Scion brands style in the US, it's the sister brand, brother brand of Yamaha. It's a Star Vmax. By separating the brands it allows us to position an image that is more focused and more appealing to the usual American cruiser rider as opposed to a very sporty offroad and supersport type image. But certainly, we don't want to loose our brand affiliation with Yamaha, the quality and performance is so strong.”

There is no schedule at all for the Vmax?

“No, it's still purely a concept. It has not been in the US in this sort of setting before. So before we make that final stand, ok let's do it, we want to make sure we get all the feedback first.”

In the UK Miles Taylor, the Marketing, Press and PR Manager had this to say:

Expectations for the UK market on the Vmax? Compared to the MT-01?

“It is clear that the VMax still has a large following and it would be great if we/Yamaha could produce a bike which carried on the mantle of the original. The MT-01 was never intended to be a Vmax replacement so I don't feel that any new bike would necessarily compete with the customer base for attention.”

“We received a lot of questions at the recent NEC show regarding the Vmax and this interest has been relayed to the factory for their consideration and as and when any information relating to new models for 2008 and beyond becomes available we will of course keep everyone informed.”

KTM X-BOW : Now on sale for $60,000!

KTM's first even car goes on sale now for approx US $ 60,000. Here are some facts about the X-BOW:

-KTM’s first automobile
-Racing technology for the road
-Light and safe carbon fibre monocoque
-Spectacular design
-Four-cylinder TFSI from Audi
-Puristic, unfiltered driving experience
-Supersport performance
-Outstanding power-output values
-Start of production in early 2008

Powered by a 1984cc turbo-charged engine pumping out 240bhp (at 6000rpm) with 300Nm of torque (between 2200-4000rpm), the X-BOW, accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.91 seconds,  with a top speed of 217km/h. The car weighs just 721kilos and has a tank capacity of 35L, runs on a 205/40 R17 set up at the front and a 235/40 R18 set up at the rear. 




Fascination and Hi-Tech
An aggressive design and sporty potential: the X-Bow is not merely a milestone in the KTM brand’s more than 50-year history, it’s also a new citation in the small, but elite segment of radical, lightweight sports cars. This exceptional position is the result of the concept: for their first car, KTM employs the finest materials, high-tech and the know-how of respected development partners such as Audi and Dallara. The result is a street-homologated sports car with racing technology, like an avantgarde, carbon fibre monocoque. Thanks to the basic version’s light weight and the 177 kW (240 hp) Audi TFSI engine, the performance values of the KTM X-Bow outstrip those of super-sport cars with more than twice the power: with a deadweight of approx. 700 kilos, the KTM X-Bow accelerates to 100 kph in just 3.9 seconds.

But the X-Bow isn’t just a racing machine, even if it is going to accomplish spectacular performance feats on racing circuits. With its modern technologies and exceptional solutions, it’s much more oriented towards sporty drivers who seek a purist’s driving experience. By foregoing electronic assistants and today’s standard comfort features, the X-Bow offers an unfiltered adventure – aided by its standalone wheels in the style of monoposto racing cars, transparent technology and the car’s reduced concept, i.e. no roof, doors or windscreen. The sports car has only a 70-millimeter, transparent wind deflector. With all these unique features, driving the KTM X-Bow becomes an experience with an immediacy that otherwise can only be felt when riding a motorcycle.



Successfull premiere at the Geneva Motorshow, Start of Production at Magna Steyr in Graz/Austria from beginning 2008
The extremely positive reactions to the world premiere of the KTM X-Bow at the Geneva Motor Show gave the green light: the Upper Austrian company will produce its lightweight sports car in series. KTM’s partner for this production should be Magna Steyr Fahrzeugtechnik in Graz, Austria – a partner with a long tradition and considerable experience in automobile manufacturing. A corresponding letter of intent has already been signed.

So production will start in early 2008, with the first deliveries to customers expected in spring 2008. In order to meet the high demand KTM will strive to reach the maximum annual production capacity of about 1000 units as soon as possible. In the years that follow, KTM expects a sales volume of more than 500 units per year.

Plans are still in place to produce the first 100 units as an exclusive special series. These introductory models have long since sold out and will be delivered with plaques showing their sequential numbering in addition to premium equipment.

The KTM X-Bow meets the requirements for road service as defined by the new EU guidelines for small series homologation. These guidelines will come into effect at the end of 2007 in the following countries: Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Great Britain, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Austria, Spain. Switzerland will also be complying with the EU guidelines. For the other states of the European Union, it is to be expected that the KTM X-Bow will be approved for road service in the year 2008 in the course of small series homologation.

In all other countries outside the European Union, the KTM X-Bow is classed as a pure racing car for use solely on racetracks. As a basis for this, FIA homologation for the GT4 racing series is planned. Applications may later be filed for approval for road service in countries outside the European Union or are still under scrutiny by the relevant national authorities.

SPECIFICATIONS : PDF FILE

Honda announces 2008 models

The 2008 CBR 1000RR

World over, on motorcycling forums, bikers are very disappointed with what Honda has provided as 2008 line up! The CBR 1000RR and CBR 600RR do get a lil makeover, but bikers expected a lot more...

Heres the 2008 CBR 600RR (sourse : Bike land)


Here is an official press release from HONDA for the 2008 models:



Torrance, Calif. - American Honda Motor Company announced more additions today to its 2008 motorcycle, ATV, scooter and personal watercraft (PWC) products at the company's annual dealer convention in Anaheim, California.

"Our theme at this year's show is Dream Team 2008 and Honda enthusiasts will be pleased to see the number of dreams we've brought to reality for 2008," said Honda Press Manager Jon Row. "We have a number of new flagships in various segments. Our best-selling VTX1300 is now available as a turnkey touring model. We're introducing an affordable, highly versatile, dual-sport bike, the CRF230L. The all-new TRX700XX introduces incredible power, comfort and handling to the high-performance ATV market. Two all new 1500cc four-stroke turbocharged AquaTrax with amazing power and handling will delight our PWC fans. "

"We are also especially pleased to early announce the 2009 Big Red, Honda's first entry in the MUV (multi-use vehicle) side-by-side market. With the introduction of Big Red, it will soon be clear to our customers that Honda understands their needs better than any other manufacturer in the side by side market."

American Honda's powersports product line now encompasses 58 models, many of them all new or significantly redesigned.

New for 2008
VTX1300 Tourer



For 2008, the popular VTX1300 is available right off the showroom floor in full touring trim with a stylish, full-size custom windscreen, chrome-padded backrest for passenger comfort and 24-liter leather saddlebags. Best of all, the turnkey package comes loaded straight from the factory. Offered in Black, Metallic Silver and Metallic Red.
MSRP: $10,999 to $11,099

CRF230L

The CRF230L is a compact and lightweight adventure-loving dual-sport motorcycle that can also do double duty as an economical commuter, motorhome runabout or weekend outback-exploration trail bike. With a dependable, torquey 223cc single-cylinder air-cooled four-stroke, electric starting, CRF-R-inspired bodywork/graphics and a user-friendly 267-pound curb weight (including all standard equipment, required fluids and a full tank of fuel), this is one street-legal machine that can do it all.
MSRP: $4,449

CRF450R, CRF250R, CRF450X, CRF250X

Honda's championship-winning, Unicam engine-equipped CRF-R motocrossers and CRF-X dirt bikes receive numerous upgrades for 2008. Most notable is the addition of the lightweight HPSD (Honda Progressive Steering Damper) system to the CRF450R/X and CRF250R. Specifically designed for the rigors of motocross and off-road riding, HPSD improves handling and reduces rider fatigue. Races are won or lost in the corners. Thanks to the exclusive advantage of HPSD, all three models are now fitted with new 22mm-offset triple clamps to further enhance cornering ability. Both motocross models benefit from numerous power-enhancing improvements and receive a revised Showa front fork with new damper rods and stiffer springs, plus rear shock valving that matches changes to the forks. The CRF450X features a HPSD setup tuned specifically for off-road use. It and the 250X both have new narrow-design fuel tanks for improved ergonomics and Dunlop 742FA front tires for improved turning feel and traction. All four models are also equipped with works-type front and rear brake discs to reduce unsprung weight. Offered in Red, the CRF450R and CRF250R are also available in a special 2008 Black color, a limited color run of less than 500 units per model.
CRF450R MSRP: $7,199 to $7,399
CRF250R MSRP: $6,449 to $6,649
CRF450X MSRP: $7,399
CRF250X MSRP: $6,599

Returning Models (does not include previously announced models)
Street Motorcycles

VTX1800

The popular VTX1800 is offered in the sporty F-style, neo-retro N-version and T-type Tourer. All three versions are available in two distinctive build variations, and numerous Genuine Honda Accessories ensure that each VTX version can be custom-tailored like no other cruiser on the market. The VTX1800F is available in Black and Candy Red Tribal; the VTX1800N is available in Black, Dark Orange Metallic (Spec 1), Black with Black Custom Art, Dark Orange Metallic (Spec 2); and the VTX1800T is offered in Black, Black/Candy Black Cherry and Black/Metallic Blue.
VTX1800F MSRP: $13,499 to $15,799
VTX1800N MSRP: $13,699 to $16,649
VTX1800T MSRP: $14,899 to $16,449

ST1300/ST1300 ABS


For those seeking long-distance comfort along with exemplary engine performance and superior handling, the ST1300 earns high marks from riders all around the globe. Available in Candy Dark Red.
ST1300 MSRP: $14,499
ST1300 ABS MSRP: $15,599

VTX1300

This muscular V-twin custom follows in the footsteps of the awesome VTX1800 and delivers distinctive custom styling and loads of torque in a high-value package. For 2008, VTX1300R & C models feature a sleek restyled two-into-two exhaust system with bullet-style mufflers for a classic custom look. The VTX1300R also features stylish chrome side covers. The VTX1300R is offered in Black, Pearl White, Dark Blue Metallic and VTX1300C colors include Metallic Black, Metallic Silver, Candy Red, Pearl Yellow.
VTX1300R MSRP: $9,599 to $9,699
VTX1300C MSRP: $9,599 to $9,699

Interceptor/Interceptor ABS

The quintessential sport touring motorcycle for sport bike riders, the Interceptor stands far above all others thanks to its exemplary handling, high-performance VTEC engine, all-day comfort and long-range amenities. Offered in Metallic Silver.
Interceptor MSRP: $10,799
Interceptor ABS MSRP: $11,799

Shadow Spirit 750 C2

In addition to the Black, Metallic Silver, Candy Dark Red/Flame and Ultra Blue Metallic/Flame color schemes introduced earlier, the Shadow Spirit 750 C2 will also come in a 2008 special color of Metallic Silver/Flame that will be produced in a limited color run of less than 500 units. Shadow Spirit 750 C2 MSRP: $6,799 to $7,099 CBR600RR A winner on the racetrack and in magazine comparison tests, the light, compact and powerful Honda CBR600RR raises performance standards to new heights in the middleweight class. Exciting new color schemes include Red/Black, Pearl Orange/Black, Metallic Silver, and Graffiti.
MSRP: $9,599 to $9,899

Nighthawk

The Nighthawk is where full-size motorcycling meets small-sized budgets in a lightweight, easy-to-handle package.
MSRP: $3,699>


Returning Scooter Models
Silver Wing ABS/Silver Wing

For performance that stands tall in the world of scooters, Honda's Silver Wing offers an innovative blend of high performance, easy operation and distinctive styling. New Metallic Grey color. Silver Wing MSRP: $8,099
Silver Wing ABS MSRP: $8,599

Metropolitan

With the Metropolitan scooter, riders looking for economical transportation and easy-to-operate features can also enjoy a fun and fashionable ride that comes in a variety of styles and colors. Available in Ruby and new colors: Ocean, Monza and Gothic.
MSRP: $1,899 to $1,999

Ruckus

An economical scooter that has plenty of attitude and a too-cool look, the Ruckus stands out from the two-wheel crowd. Metallic Silver joins Black for 2008 colors.
MSRP: $2,049

You may also see these:

2008 Interceptor features and benefits

2008 Interceptor specifications

2008 CBR600RR features and benefits

2008 CBR600RR specifications

Suzuki Stratosphere 1100 to be launched in 2009 - FINALLY

Added on 2nd January 2006


Added on 24th April 2007



Yes, the Suzuki Stratosphere 1100 is going to be in the showrooms in 2009. The two videos above show the much awaited Suzuki Stratosphere 1100 in action, which is now rumoured to be launched in 2009. Yeah, Finally.

Enjoy the videos.
PS: Hints of the old 1980s Katana did come to my mind the first time i saw the pics and videos. Do notice that the videos were uploaded quite some time back, infact, the first one, way back in Jan 2006!

Facts on the Stratosphere:
-An exceptionally smooth, all-new 1100cc inline six-cylinder engine with around 200 horses on play.
-Mated to an automatic gearbox, but the 'box will allow the rider to shift gears manually too.
-Keyless start, colour LCD display panel, LED headlamps, GPS and advanced anti-theft features

Electric bikes can fly too : Quantya FMX & EVO-1

If you give a damm about the environment and don’t mind spending a big $10,000 for fun, you may want to have a look here - Quantya. The Quantya FMX (Freestyle Motocross) and Quantya EVO1 are bikes that are (mostly) prohibitively expensive, but whose electric bent seeks to engage the green movement and the high-flying X-Games crowd.

The Videos first:






Done with watching the videos? No, you werent watching some pure off-road motorcycles in action, but the Swiss based company, Quantya's electric bikes, the FMX and EVO-1 in action!

The FMX is a real freestyle bike, with its amazing acceleration allowing it to make jumps without run-up. In its habitat, tracks similar to that from BMX are tackled perfectly.
It runs on a lithium polymer battery at a voltage of 48V, takes about an hour and fifteen minutes to charge and has about 1,000 total charge cycles on it. When the battery dies, you can swap it out for a new one that will cost you an extra $3,500. Ka-ching! It has a high speed of about 38 MPH (or 60 KM/H) and can travel up to 30-180 minutes on a single charge. It includes an axial gap D.C. brush, with a max power of 9KW, torque of 31.5 Nm, and has a software set-up with their own Quantya Telemetric System. It also weighs about 200 lbs, and has 18” rims.

The EVO-1 on the other hand, is a "Racing Prototype". With its amazing acceleration allowing it to make incredible slides, in its habitat, tracks similar to Go-karting, are tackled perfectly.
The Quantya EVO1 is a smaller racing bike with different motor options, but also powered by the lithium polymer battery. It has a high voltage of 76 V, with tough rear ‘Sachs Soft Damp’ shocks. The electric locomotion involves a two-step gear that moves from the belt drive to the motor to the chair drive that activates the rear wheel. Both motorbikes of course produce zero emissions and because of the compact set-up, are supposed to take up less maintenance than traditional motorbikes.
Specifications:
● Lithium Polymer 76 Volt Battery ● Rear Shock Sachs Soft Damp
● Power 30.4 KW (40,76 HP) ● Forks Marzocchi Upside-Down Ø 45 mm
● Front disc rotor Ø 260 mm Rear Ø 220 mm ● Wheels Ø 17"