Sound the storm warnings as the first "Hurricane" of the 2010 season is set to blow in! Dealers will be getting an advance alert of Scorpion's much anticipated one-piece leather road racing suit as it makes its debut at the Dealer Expo in Indianapolis this weekend (Booth #3643). The rest of us will have to wait for May 1, when a limited quantity of the Hurricane suits will blow into dealerships around the country.inline_mediumwraptextright28342573/scenes/1003_sbkp_scorpion_one_piece_hurricane_suit1003_sbkp_01_z+scorpion+hurricane_suit.jpgTrue

There's something about the very thought of a police officer that sends a lot of sportbike riders into fits of cold sweat and general uneasiness, and our subject is one such person. He's not alone in his sentiment, but he reacted on it and it cost him dearly.

You almost wonder why someone would even bother to shell out the extra cash for a limited edition R1 when it's destined for a major rebuild. Most of the upgraded parts that came on the LE package were ultimately scrapped for higher-spec upgrades, leaving the retro paint as the only indication of the bike's pedigree.inline_mediumwraptextrightOver Racing's rearsets are some smooth exotica straight from Japan. We're not sure how you even get your hands on these (but we'd sure like to know).28144081/custombikes/1003_sbkp_2006_yamaha_r1_le1003_sbkp_02_z+2006_yamaha_r1_le+.jpgTrue

The SBK Factory Evo II exhaust systems are Leo Vince's top of the line exhausts. They're constructed with a TIG-welded stainless steel mid-pipe (or full header) that connects to an all-titanium or carbon can with a carbon fiber end cap and mounting strap. It's all built in-house to ensure absolute quality control, meaning nothing's farmed out to subcontractors. Additionally, Leo Vince exhausts are tuned to work best with stock fuel settings.

Feel and comfort are just as critical as complete safety, and the Supertech R boots cover each aspect. The Supertech R isn't an all-new model, but each year A-stars updates the styling and gives it a few tweaks to get it ever closer to absolute perfection. These aren't exactly cheap, but if you want the best you have to make small sacrifices.

This month a 2001 Honda CBR929RR gets freshened up. Though this rig represents a clean example, it's still nine years old and in need of an update. Since it was previously equipped with motor mods and a 520 conversion, we're not looking to extract any more power. Instead, we're looking to drop some weight and preserve the existing power. It may not have the outright stomp of the new literbikes, but with a few tricks it'll be nipping at their heels.

The streetfighter scene has grown in popularity recently, and naturally so has the argument about the origins of the stripped-down style. Some claim the genre traces its roots back to European riders who lacked the money to repair their crashed sportbikes. Instead of buying the expensive fairings and OEM parts they'd piece together unfaired bikes under strict budget constraints.

And then you have the passionate group who argues that they weren't created from carnage, but instead for performance and individuality. More akin to a modern streetchopper, these hotrods were created to buck conformity and raise one's street cred.

From whichever gene pool you believe they were born, you can't deny the fact these in-your-face bikes have a style all their own. While the term "streetfighter" refers to the style, every rider's iteration of the perfect example has variations. From 'Busa to Bandit, murdered out to blinged out, you can make one all your own just so long as it's devoid of a fairing and packs serious muscle.

Leatt Corporation, the leaders in neck brace protection, has expanded their market to include a clothing line as well! Most recently, they have added The Leatt Logo Hooded Sweatshirt. This comfortable casual features the Leatt logos on a super heavyweight, full zip sweatshirt. In addition to the Leatt logo, the US and South African flags on the sleeve to represent the supporting nature of Leatt's South African testing laboratory and the Leatt US's sales & marketing efforts.inline_mediumwraptextright27025685/scenes/1003_sbkp_leatt_corporation_clothing_line1003_sbkp_01_o+leatt_corporation_clothing_line+front_shot.jpgTrue

PORTLAND, Ore. PIAA Corporation, the world leader in Powersports lighting, has introduced an H7 version of its proven Intense White halogen bulb a potent upgrade for performance-minded owners of sport bikes, touring bikes, and dual sport bikes, announced PIAA Powersports Business Unit Manager Gordon Robertson.

Torrance, CA These t-shirts represent an alliance between Alpinestars and Angels & Airwaves, in aid of the charity Riders for Health. Alpinestars worked closely with the band on these designs which convey their love for motorcycles and their support for Riders for Health.

Triumph Motorcycles has something special in store for all of the race fans at Daytona Bike Week. Jason DiSalvo, American World Supersport racer, will be at the Triumph Demo Truck meeting with fans and signing autographs.inline_mediumwraptextright32471796/scenes/1003_sbkp_triumph_jason_disalvo_autograph_session1003_sbkp_01_o+triumph_jason_disalvo_autograph_session+front_view.jpgTrue

STOW, OH ­ Avon Motorcycle Tyres North America is proud to announce the launch of the all-new Avon motorcycle Web site www.avonmoto.com. The new Web site offers all the best product information, company news and information, technical information and more including the latest on motorcycle events and contests, featured builders, featured riders and testimonials in a clean, user-friendly design. The site has been optimized for a variety of browser platforms making it simple to access and use by both the Mac and the PC user.

It never fails, the first part to snap off in a tip over is a brake or clutch lever and it can leave you stranded and helpless. But a folding lever can eliminate that stress. LighTech's levers are made of magnesium because it's lightweight and strong. While they might seem pricey, think of the money you'll save in snapped levers, not to mention you'll be rocking a product that's usually reserved for top-level racebikes.

Friday, 12 March 2010 See the first pictures of the new 2010 Rizla Suzuki GSV-R after the MotoGP team revealed the Troy Lee Designs inspired livery.inline_mediumwraptextright27207392/scenes/1003_sbkp_suzuki_unveils_2010_livery1003_sbkp_02_original+capirossi_bike+.jpgTrue

Following BMW Motorrad USA's recent partnership with Keith Code's California Superbike School to provide brand new BMW S1000RRs for its rider training programs, crash protection specialist R&G Racing has confirmed that it will be supplying the bikes with a full complement of its award-winning protective products.

Mission Workshop is a new San Francisco based company located in the heart of the Mission District. The company was born from over 15 years experience designing and manufacturing domestic messenger bags and clothing. The original founders of Chrome created Mission Workshop and released a medium size cargo backpack called "The Rambler"

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (March 14, 2010)
Screamin' Eagle®/Vance & Hines rider Eddie Krawiec rode a Harley-Davidson® V-Rod® to win the opening round of the NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle season at the Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals at Gainesville Raceway. Krawiec defeated Rum Bum Buell rider Shawn Gann in the final round of eliminations.

The Sinister is a cool new addition to Scorpion's affordable EXO-700 line. Cool features like the SpeedShift quick-change shield system means no fumbling around (or breaking) visor components and it's paired with the EverClear fog-free shield; an optically-correct visor with an anti-scratch coating. As with all Scorpion lids, the Sinister has a KwikWick moisture-wicking liner and cheek pads that are not only removable and washable, but also interchangeable for more boisterous colors and graphics inside your lid.inline_mediumwraptextright26940269/hotproducts/1003_sbkp_scorpion_exo_700_sinister_helmet1003_sbkp_06_z+scorpion_exo_700_sinister_helmet+.jpgTrue

DAYTON, Ohio. (March 12, 2010) - Expanding upon 25 years of sportbike dragracing innovation and success on the quarter-mile, Brock's Performance is proud to announce its first roadracing team partnership.

(Lake Forest, CA March 11, 2010) Something old, something new, something borrowed but nothing to cause the blues. In the best wedding tradition, Scorpion's "Vintage" EXO-750 Air helmet marries avant garde upgrades with retro graphics to create a happy union. From the old school artwork to Scorpion's new AirFit® technology and locking faceshield borrowed from the top-of-the-line EXO-1000, the all-new EXO-750 series truly takes the cake.

What's that? Never waxed your bike before? Shame on you.
Eagle One has made waxing faster and easier than ever before with its unique Gel Wax. It reduces the time and effort required with conventional waxes because it doesn't need to haze or dry after application; just apply the wax to one section at a time, wipe off immediately and enjoy thelook of a showroom shine.inline_mediumwraptextright26933258/hotproducts/1003_sbkp_eagle_one_gel_wax1003_sbkp_03_z+eagle_one_motorcycle_gel_wax+.jpgTrue

Adding a wide rear wheel to your sportbike is desirable for many riders, but why wrap it with a cruiser tire? Continental's new ContiRaceAttack Custom is designed specifically for wide wheel, high horsepower sportbikes. It features Continuous-Compound Technology which uses a single compound to deliver the benefits of a dual-compound tire without the abrupt transition between the different compounds. This means there's a continuous transition from the center to the shoulder for smooth and predictable performance. And if the tread pattern looks aggressive that's because, well, it is. Continental pushed the limits to offer the absolute maximum amount of "slick" area allowable to be DOT-legal for more grip and control.

2010 Triumph Rocket Roadster First impressions from the street... If you spend any length of time out of the country, you realize that most foreigners have some funny ideas about Americans. Jibes about fat asses, gas-guzzling cars and our various foreign policy moves end up like water off a duck's back eventually, but it's always amusing for your average American abroad.

Two little letters have always separated the sportbike crowd from everyone else. The "double Rs" as we all know, mean "race replica," and nearly every sportbike has had the aforementioned designation on its bodywork at some point in its history. But just because a motorcycle doesn't look excessively aggressive or boast its racing heritage on its sleeve, does that mean it should be excluded from the cool kids club? We found two motorcycles that prove looks can be deceiving.

SR Senior Editor Andrew Trevitt returns to the office I'm still finding it difficult to believe that over a year has passed since SR Senior Editor Andrew Trevitt was involved in an accident that most of us-myself especially-would rather forget. It seems like only yesterday that Trevitt and I were complaining to each other about what a grind the tire test was, and how glad we were that only two brands of tires were left to test. Yet Trevitt's long and arduous rehabilitation also seems fresh in my mind; he suffered a multitude of other injuries besides the spinal fractures that put him at a much greater disadvantage compared to the majority of the other people at the rehab facility, making his road to recovery that much more difficult.inline_mediumwraptextright28082413/features/146_1004_wheelspin_andrew_trevitt146_1004_01_z+wheelspin+andrew_trevitt.jpgTrue

In the final portion of Yamaha’s uniquely innovative and surprisingly introspective series of discussions between reigning WSBK champion Ben Spies and four-time 500 Grand Prix World Champion Eddie Lawson, the two men give their views on training to win, on the importance of team cohesiveness and support, and the mysteries of riding a 500cc V-four two-stroke GP bike. Once again, you should check these videos out; some might think that just because the videos are from Yamaha that the content will be scripted and contrived, but their revealing discussions on these topics will definitely surprise you. Click on the video below to view it.

In part seven of the revealing On The Throttle TV interview series with seven-time AMA Superbike champion Mat Mladin, the straight-talking Australian once again discusses his views on why pure talent will not get a racer very far in today’s racing world. Mladin expounds on why now it’s necessary to put in a lot of hard work if you ever want to be a champion, and how/why it’s even more crucial to put in more work than your competition if you ever want to be a multi-time champion.

In this second and closing portion of the OTT streaming video interview with American Jason DiSalvo, the American rider talks about his surprising last-minute call to ride for the ParkinGO BE1 Triumph World Supersport team. DiSalvo talks at length about the atmosphere in the new team and in the WSBK paddock, and how he’s coping with the language barrier due to the team being based in Italy.

The beginning parts were straight, as we left the shop and headed westward. The early morning sun warmed our backs, the day soft with promise. With no rain anywhere in the forecast, surely it was a good day to finally lose my track virginity.

The superlatives came pouring out on the final full weekend in October when Valentino Rossi added to his legend by capturing a seventh premier class title and ninth overall. Now tied with fellow Italian Carlo Ubbiali, Rossi trails only the 15 of fellow legend Giacomo Agostini, but even Rossi is realistic enough to know he won't reach 15, not at a rate of one per season. But with 103 GP wins he could reach Ago's total of 122. Already he has more premier class wins-77 to 68-than Ago, who rode two classes a day, often on machinery that was untouchable.inline_mediumwraptextright27870529/features/146_1003_grand_prix_rider_valentino_rossi146_1003_02_z+valentino_rossi+grand_prix_champion.jpgTrue

Former 500cc Grand Prix World Champion Kevin Schwantz has always kept himself involved with racing long after his retirement, and he remains an important mentor to many young riders in the U.S.A. In this OTT interview at the recent AMA test at Fontana, California’s California Speedway, Schwantz talks about his views on helping Yoshimura Suzuki’s Blake Young at the test, the present state of AMA roadracing in America, the Schwantz School in 2010, and helping younger racers in America after the demise of the Red Bull Rookies Cup. He also weighs in on his view regarding fellow Texan Ben Spies’ chances in MotoGP this year.

Last year's TTXGP ushered in the beginning of zero emissions motorcycle racing. Several teams from the world over scrambled to put together an electric motorcycle for one simple mission: to complete one lap of the nearly 38 mile mountain course faster than the rest. The race proved to be enough of a success that it will continue this year, though under a different promoter. As extra incentive, the Isle of Man government is putting up an extra £10,000 (approx. $16,000) to the first team to record a 100mph average lap. Read more about this year's "TT Zero" event in the press release below.inline_mediumwraptextrightRob Barber rounds the bend at Creg Ne Baa, en route to his winning lap during last year's inaugural clean emissions race. Photo: Mark Walters27931138/features/146_1001_tt_zero_clean_emissions_motorcycle_racing_to_return_to_the_isle_of_man_tt_in_2010146_1001_01+Rob_Barber_web+.JPG.jpgTrue

Despite cash-strapped parent company Harley-Davidson looking to sell it off in order to raise much-needed capital (this after recently purchasing ownership rights late last year), MV Agusta looks to be back at full strength with a flurry of new models for 2010, the latest of which is the all-new F4 1000 R that was unveiled at the Milan EICMA show. In an apparent move toward future World Superbike aspirations, MV Agusta has returned the F4 to its previous-generation 998cc displacement with an all-new engine that is much lighter and compact, yet nearly as powerful as its 80cc-larger predecessor.

During the Tokyo Motor Show, Honda CEO Takanobu Ito held a press conference specifically discussing the direction of the company and the challenges it's been facing in the current economic climate. Ito, himself a motorcyclist, stated that the company's long term ambitions lie in alternative fuels. Specifically, fuel cell technology and creating the infrastructure to support it. For the short term, Ito only sees electric battery technology as ideal for short-distance transport.inline_mediumwraptextright31938987/features/146_1003_2009_tokyo_motor_show146_1003_08_z+late_braking+2009_tokyo_motor_show.jpgTrue

Multistrada 1200/1200S
Ducati has finally pulled the wraps off its new heavily-redesigned Multistrada 1200 at the Milan EICMA show, and it's easy to see that the new bike is a far cry from its previous incarnation. Powered by a modified version of the same liquid-cooled 1198cc V-twin Testastretta engine used in the company's superbike lineup, the all-new Multistrada 1200's main calling card is its advanced electronic engine (and suspension, in the case of the S model) control that transforms the new Ducati into four distinctly different motorcycling personalities.

Photography Courtesy of Yamaha Racing

The aliens have taken over. They've taken over the pole position. They've taken over the fastest lap. They've taken over the podium. They've taken over the winner's trophy. They've taken over the championship.inline_mediumwraptextright32092236/features/146_1003_ben_spies_motogp146_1003_01_z+ben_spies+lead_shot.jpgTrue

In this OTT video, team coordinator Rich Doan gives us a tour inside the secret confines of Yoshimura Suzuki Racing, the firm responsible for Mat Mladin’s unprecedented seven AMA Superbike titles, and where he spent 13 of his 14 seasons racing in the U.S.A. Doan provides some insight into the activity inside the Yosh race shop, as well as some interesting viewpoints on his 14 years with the Yoshimura Suzuki crew. Probably the best is his last comment about the early ‘90s when the American Honda team was the dominant force in AMA roadracing, and everyone else including the Yosh team was struggling to keep them in sight: “To put it bluntly…we sucked.”

In the eighth portion of the OTT video interview series with seven-time AMA Superbike champion Mat Mladin, the focus is on Herschel Auxier, the Yoshimura Suzuki datalogging technician responsible for Mladin’s crew. The lone American in Mladin’s mostly Down Under crew (the rest are Aussies, except for New Zealander Johnny Asher), Auxier goes into detail about what it’s like working with Mladin, and the ins and outs of datalogging and electronic controls that are now so prevalent in racing. Mladin also weighs in on his preferences with both systems.

In Part 9 of the OTT video interview series with seven-time AMA Superbike champion Mat Mladin, electronics wizard Ammar Bazzaz of Bazzaz Performance talks about his time as Mladin’s crew chief and what he learned while working with the Australian; Mladin then follows with his own perspective on their work together. Mladin also weighs in cornering style (“Corner speed is overrated…”) and some revealing statements on his use of the clutch while riding.

Yamaha Motor Corporation USA once again gets creative in bringing two superstar Yamaha champions from different eras together for the first time on video. Reigning World Superbike Champion (and now MotoGP rising star) Ben Spies and legendary four-time World 500cc Grand Prix champion Eddie Lawson meet for the first time and talk about various topics including racing technology, training, bike setup, team/manufacturer support, racing in general, and most importantly, what it takes to be a world champion.inline_mediumwraptextrightLegendary four-time World 500cc Grand Prix champion Eddie Lawson rarely grants interviews, so this creative promotional video series by Yamaha Motor Corp USA is definitely a treat.27072770/features/146_1003_ben_spies_eddie_lawson_yamaha_video_part_one146_1003_+ben_spies_eddie_lawson_yamaha_video_2+.jpgTrue

Aprilia is following its established strategy in 125/250GP racing by offering customers around the world the benefits of its development season in World Superbike via the RSV-RR, a close copy of Max Biaggi's race-winning factory bike which the Italian manufacturer is making available now for €45,000 (approximately $64,200). The Aprilia Racing workshops at Noale will build 20 examples of this bike for 2010, containing the exact same in-house electronics package as the works racer, incorporating traction control, launch control, engine braking control, datalogging, etc. But the RSV4-RR has a slightly lower engine specification, producing 190 horsepower at 13,500 rpm, which positions it halfway between the Biaggi bike's 210 horsepower at 14,500 rpm, and the 180-horsepower Superstock racer which Ayrton Badovini took to a convincing victory on a one-off ride for Aprilia at the FIM Superstock World Cup's Imola round in September. Badovini decisively beat future champion Xavi Simeon on his Ducati 1198 on their rivals' home track, only to be disqualified because the Aprilia factory team hadn't read the rules closely enough, and didn't realize they weren't allowed to use lightweight titanium fasteners and other hardware in this streetbike-derived category.inline_mediumwraptextrightDraped in Biaggi replica body work, the RSV4-RR certainly looks outwardly identical to the works factory racebike.28344286/features/146_1004_aprilia_rsv4_rr_superbike146_1004_12_z+aprilia_RSV4+RR.jpgTrue

In the second part of this interesting three-part video series from Yamaha, the past and present world champions discuss more racing topics. This video includes the two revealing the level of their own competitive instincts, the aspects of their job that they like (besides riding, obviously) as well as those they generally don’t like, and the myriad little necessities that are required to come together—both intentional and unintentional—to be a world champion. You may think that you know what they’re going to say about these subjects, but the details in their answers will probably surprise you. Click on the video below to view it.

In what is probably one of the best episodes in this multiple-part video interview series with Mat Mladin, the intense three-year rivalry between the Australian and the young champion-to-be is showcased, with some revealing commentary from Spies about the differences in datalogging graphs between the two, some comments from his crew chief Tom Houseworth, and even some pit conversations between Houseworth and Spies during practice. Even some of Mladin’s answers about his rivalry with Spies aren’t the usual run of the mill talk that you may have thought you heard or read before in interviews. Definitely a must-see video. Click on the video below to view it.

Aprilia's much heralded return to the World Superbike arena this past season for the first time since 2002 with the all-new RSV4 must have brought great satisfaction for them, with fourth place in the final points table for prodigal son Max Biaggi, riding once again for the factory he won a hat-trick of 250GP World titles for in 1994-96. This came on the back of a debut race victory for the RSV4 at his favourite Brno track, and a total of nine visits to the rostrum during the course of the season.

In Part 11 of the OTT video interview series with seven-time AMA Superbike champion Mat Mladin, the always outspoken Australian gives his views on the concept of hanging off while cornering a motorcycle—and how some riding schools may be pushing the concept too far. He also gives his frank assessment on what was really wrong with the old AMA Pro Racing regime, in order to put what has happened in the past year or so in better context.

In 2003 Suzuki added A big-bore model to the V-twin SV line-up. Despite the less-than-stellar success of the TL1000 series (TL1000S and R), Suzuki was brave enough to give it another try. The one-liter version included two editions: the naked SV1000 priced at $7999 and the half-faired S model retailing for $8599. The SV1000 was intended to be a less expensive (and less committed) way for riders interested in a full-sized sportbike to enter the market compared to the GSX-R.inline_mediumwraptextright2003 Suzuki SV1000S28183726/features/146_1004_suzuki_sv1000_motorcycle146_1004_14_o+2003_suzuki_sv1000s+front_view.jpgTrue

Because of the strict licensing regulations in Japan back in the '80s and '90s that made it very difficult to legally ride a motorcycle over 400cc, the Japanese domestic market at that time was chock full of 400cc sportbikes. Although most were inline-fours, one particular V-twin made its debut in '98-the Suzuki SV400. Available in both naked and half-faired versions, the SV400 didn't really catch on in Japan-but it would provide the basis for one of Suzuki's most popular models worldwide the following year.inline_mediumwraptextright1999 Suzuki SV65028183252/features/146_1004_suzuki_sv650_motorcycle146_1004_01_o+1999_suzuki_sv650+front_view.jpgTrue

Part 10 of the OnTheThrottleTV video interview series with seven-time AMA Superbike champion Mat Mladin features the Australian revealing some interesting insight into his unusual technique of feeding in throttle and clutch during hard braking in order to keep the rear wheel under control. He also explains his thoughts on “backing it in” entering a corner, as well as downshifting technique and where he feels the most time is made on the racetrack when most of the field is within a second of each other.

The sweetest Grand Prix racing machines ever built are no more. Starting in 2010, the 250cc two-strokes that honed the skills of world champions such as Kenny Roberts, Wayne Rainey, Freddie Spencer, Valentino Rossi, and Casey Stoner will be replaced by "Moto2" machines, a much cheaper 600cc four-stroke alternative stepping stone to MotoGP. And as much as 250s will be missed, it was clear that they were an anachronism in a changing world.inline_mediumwraptextright26972147/features/146_1004_motogp_moto2_machines146_1004_01_z+motoGP_moto2_machine+right_side.jpgTrue

(Lake Forest, CA March 16, 2010) Although Scorpion has made a name for itself with cutting-edge innovations, edgy advertising and in-your-face designs, providing protection is what the company is really all about. In keeping with this fundamental philosophy, Scorpion Sports was more than happy to support the all-new Chuckwalla Valley Raceway (CVR) as it kicks off a series of track days in 2010.

Last issue, we outlined the importance of mental concentration and staying physically relaxed on the motorcycle. As with virtually all skills in riding motorcycles, these two are closely related with the interwoven techniques of body position and steering.

A revolutionary project and a unique history of victories on the racetrack have come together to create the RSV4. A supersport with absolutely exclusive racing technology, developed around the 4 narrow V cylinder engine developed from the technical know-how that has led Aprilia to victory on racetracks all over the world. Aprilia RSV4 hits the racetrack and the roads with onegoal only: to win.
33 championships, 254 MotoGP World Championship wins and 8 Superbike victories : over the last two decades Aprilia has become a modern motorcycling legend. The bikes from Noale have dominated tracks the world over thanks to the genial design, courage and extraordinary abilities of the technicians who pursued innovative solutions by experimenting, innovating and sometimes revolutionising technical schemes that seemed to be unchangeable. Aprilia RSV4 FACTORY, the bike that brings Aprilia back into the 2009 Superbike World Championship, is the product of this immense technical know-how. It is a highly technologically advanced motorcycle, conceived for racing and for this purpose designed and developed by Aprilia together with the marque's Race Division, the largest and most advanced of its kind in Europe and one of the most important in the world.inline_mediumwraptextright32221530/bikes/2010/146_1002_2010_aprilia_rsv4_factory146_1002_01+2010_aprilia_rsv4_factory_20+.jpgTrue

It was difficult not to have even the slightest bit of skepticism when we arrived at the fabulous Autódromo Internacional do Algarve racing circuit located in the hills near Portimau, Portugal for the international press launch of BMW's new S 1000 RR literbike. The venerated Bavarian manufacturer has built a long-standing reputation for bikes that-while solid performers in their own right-were never really quite as aggressive as the latest supersport tackle from the Japanese (and some Italian) manufacturers. Much of this was due to BMW's penchant for incorporating different and often unusual ideas in some portion of the motorcycle's design, a hallmark of the Bavarian manufacturer.inline_mediumwraptextright"In recent years the majority of historians have come to the conclusion that 'blitzkrieg' was not a form of warfare invented by the German military, but an old method of winning decisive battles using new technology."
-Online definition of blitzkrieg26527535/bikes/146_1003_2010_bmw_s_1000_rr146_1003_01_z+2010_BMW_S_1000_RR+lead_shot.jpgTrue

It's a good thing the folks at Honda enjoy a challenge, because this next feat will be one of their most challenging: convincing the motorcycling public that automatics aren't evil. You see, Honda's new VFR1200F is a technological tour de force. One in which we'll cover in more detail shortly, but the single most polarizing feature of the new Honda VFR1200F lies in three little letters: D-C-T, or Dual Clutch Transmission, in which shifting of the VFR can be performed via paddles on the left handlebar or completely automatically.inline_mediumwraptextright26560076/bikes/146_1003_2010_honda_vfr1200f146_1003_01_z+2010_honda_VFR1200F+lead_shot.jpgTrue

2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 | 1998 | 1994 |

If you're looking for a touring machine that?s fun, easy to ride and ready to carry you to work and play seven days a week, look no further than the NT700V. Fully outfitted and ready to roll, the NT700V can turn your daily commute into riding bliss and then carry you off on that weekend adventure. With a fairing, interlinked saddlebags and a strong 680cc V-twin engine, the NT700V is ready for any journey you can dream up.inline_mediumwraptextright32393325/bikes/2010/146_1002_2010_honda_nt700v146_1002_01+2010_honda_nt700v_03+.jpgTrue

Introduction

"This is one of the most exciting motorcycles in Honda's history," said Powersports Press Manager Bill Savino. "The VFR1200F establishes a whole new definition of performance motorcycling, one that taps into Honda's rich V-4 VFR heritage and extends it into the future of Honda motorcycling. The new technology within this motorcycle is flat-out amazing and it all works together in a manner that takes the VFR1200F strides forward in how a high-end machine looks, works and feels. This is a sport motorcycle that will leave you smiling and ready for more even after you've been riding for hours on end."

More detailed information and images of Honda's model line can be found on www.powersports.honda.com or see your local Honda powersports dealer.inline_mediumwraptextright26725028/bikes/2010/146_1001_2010_honda_vfr1200f146_1001_01+2010_honda_vfr1200f_wallpaper_10+.jpgTrue

From BMW's press material

Munich. Six-cylinder power units have always had particular appeal, offering not only supreme smoothness and refi nement, but also superior power and performance as well as a truly emotional driving – or, in this case, riding – experience. A further point is that the typical sound of a straight-six almost like a turbine is absolutely incomparable, with straight-six power units at BMW having stood for fascinating engine technology in BMW cars for more than seven decades.

Looking at motorcycles, inventive engineers have also tried time and again to offer the enthusiast the thrilling concept of a straight-six power unit. But while a few engines in straight-six configuration have indeed been fitted in motorcycles both lengthwise and crosswise, the straight-six has never really made a genuine breakthrough neither on production models nor in motorcycle racing. Depending on the way the engine was fitted, six cylinders in-line inevitably made the engine either very long or very wide, creating disadvantages in terms of the running gear, weight distribution and the centre of gravity. A further drawback was much higher engine weight usually setting off the benefits of extra engine power.inline_mediumwraptextright27921676/bikes/2010/146_1001_bmw_motorrad_concept_6146_1001_01+bmw_concept_6_07+.jpgTrue

First Ride

This feels awfully familiar. Disembarking from my plane in Italy I know I've done this all before. The small group of American journalists were to be carted off from their hotel near Borgo Panigale-Troy Bayliss' second home-to the Misano Adriatico circuit to ride one of the latest offerings from one of the land's famous manufacturers. So far this feels like déjà vu. In fact, when we arrived at the track the vibe felt much the same. These bikes had trellis frames, were beautifully designed...and were red.inline_mediumwraptextright31916559/bikes/146_1001_2010_mv_agusta_990r_1090rr146_1001_01_z+2010_MV_agusta_990R_1090RR+lead_shot.jpgTrue

No company has pushed the boundaries of contemporary chassis technology more than Bimota in terms of both materials and design. The company co-founded almost 40 years ago by the recently-retired Michelangelo della Moto, Massimo Tamburini, has done it again with the debut of its DB7 Oronero superbike. In creating the world's first production motorcycle with a structural carbon fiber chassis, Bimota retains its place at the leading edge of frame design. Even if achieving that entailed borrowing techniques and technology from another form of two-wheeled transportation.inline_mediumwraptextright31665300/bikes/146_1001_bimota_db7_oronero_superbike146_1001_01_z+bimota_DB7_oronero+lead.jpgTrue

Maybe we should apologize in advance for Alan Cathcart's first ride review of the 2009 KTM RC8R back in the May issue ("Getting Serious"). With such a glowing review, you weren't the only ones this side of the Atlantic waiting for samples to play with. But KTM kept us waiting. And waiting. In fact, it waited a whole model year before deciding to appease us Yanks, choosing to refine the bike in Europe before sending it abroad. Perhaps all good things indeed are worth waiting for as 2010 finally sees the KTM RC8R available to the U.S. market.

First Ride
When Kawasaki resurrected the Concours label two years ago with its ZX-14-based (but basically all-new) Concours 14, the factory's original intention was to put more "sport" in the sport-touring category. With the engine and chassis lineage tracing directly to the biggest Ninja, Kawasaki engineers were looking to create a sport-tourer that was more at home carving mountain passes at speed than its forebear. And they definitely delivered on that goal; in our '08 hypersport-tourer comparison ("Long-Range Missiles", June '08), the Concours 14 bested the competition despite a few niggling issues by virtue of its superb all-around performance.inline_mediumwraptextright27869461/bikes/146_2010_kawasaki_concours_14146_1003_01_z+2010_kawasaki_concours_14+right_turn.jpgTrue

2010 Honda Sportbikes
Featuring the all-new VFR1200F
More...


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More Technology and Refinement for This Multiple Award Winner

Performance touring comes naturally to Kawasaki, seeing as how we already had the performance part of the equation nailed with the incredible Ninja® ZX™-14 sportbike. That bike’s amazing 1,352cc engine and unique monocoque frame lent themselves perfectly to this exciting new class of transcontinental sport touring motorcycles, and the original Kawasaki Concours™ 14 and Concours 14 ABS rose immediately to the top of the critics’ lists just two short years ago. But the people who ride these motorcycles are not known for their patience. Two years on, the nextgeneration Concours 14 benefits from an entire laundry list of comfort, convenience and safety items carefully engineered to surpass all expectations of what a perfect sport tourer should be.

The biggest change is immediately apparent: All-new bodywork not only gives the new Concours 14 an even more aggressive demeanor, it’s also designed to channel more heat away from the rider for increased comfort. Meanwhile, a 2.75-inch taller, electric-adjustable windscreen creates a bigger still-air pocket for the rider and passenger, and new ducts above the instrument panel relieve the low pressure area behind the windscreen for an even smoother, quieter cruise. When the weather turns cooler, the new bike’s got your hands covered, with standard grip heaters that are easily adjustable via a control right next to the new, lockable storage compartment in the left inner fairing. Connoisseurs of fine cruising will note that all the redesigned body and trim pieces fit together with a level of precision and quality normally found on motorcycles costing thousands of dollars more.inline_mediumwraptextright27042956/bikes/2010/146_1003_2010_kawasaki_concours_14146_1003_01+2010_kawasaki_concours_14_abs_25+.jpgTrue

As part of the Z1000 road test in our next issue, we took our 2010 test unit of Kawasaki's new naked bike to our Superflow WinDyn dyno. The new bike pumps out almost 15 more horsepower than the previous version, along with a healthy increase in torque. Check out the dyno chart here, and look for the full test of the Z1000 in the next issue of Sport Rider.

Back in 1988 Honda introduced the Hawk GT in America. For its day it was a pretty trick little motorcycle. It's 52-degree, single overhead cam V-twin engine only had three valves per cyclinder and bore and stroke measurements of 79.0 x 66.0mm, respectively, making for a total displacement of 647cc. It was housed in a twin-spar aluminum frame, which doubled as a stressed member. Aside from its spartan exterior, a single-sided swingarm drew attention to the bike as a naked standard that could rip up the local twisties. As neat as it was, unfortunately it didn't sell too well, with 1991 being the final year of production. But the Hawk quickly gained a cult following, with loyal owners transforming these bikes into wicked customs or dedicated club racing machines with custom bodywork, transplanted front ends from other models and power upgrades to wring out the most from the engine.inline_mediumwraptextright27065798/bikes/146_1004_2010_honda_nt700v146_1004_01_z+2010_honda_NT700V_C-ABS+lead.jpgTrue

Kawasaki Z: Bringing You the World’s Coolest Streetbikes Since 1973

With this latest in a long line of naked Kawasaki streetbikes, we threw out the old rules and started with a clean sheet, drawing upon more than 35 years of experience in giving the people what they want. If the new Z1000 knocks your eyeballs out, that’s exactly what we had in mind. Even more important, though, is the feeling this one provides every time you twist the throttle.

A sharp new front cowl sloped back at an acute angle highlights the Z1000’s new nose, followed by a tilting instrument panel, visible through an orange lens, that can be angled to suit rider preference. Just below that a long, narrow headlight represents Kawasaki’s first use of a line-beam unit. Following the lines rearward, the eyes will next encounter a dynamically designed steel gas tank, flared on the sides to let you grab it with your knees, and trim at the rear for a snug fit. The seat’s low and narrow at the front to make ground contact easy, and it flows beautifully rearward to end in a futuristically retro LED taillight behind a red lens.inline_mediumwraptextright32461095/bikes/2010/146_1003_2010_kawasaki_z1000146_1003_01+2010_kawasaki_z1000_13+.jpgTrue

The new Ducati Multistrada 1200 combines innovative design and unprecedented technology to unleash four-bikes-in-one. Sport, Touring, Urban and Enduro riding modes now enable a truly enjoyable and customisable riding experience separated by just one click.

The ground-breaking design makes instant adjustment to power and torque delivery in addition to electronic adjustment of suspension settings and traction control, transforming the Multistrada 1200 to the rider's needs, and not the other way around.

Hailed as a true 'game-changing' motorcycle, the technologically-advanced Multistrada 1200 is sure to attract all types of riders by opening up the borders between motorcycle categories.

With the new 150hp Testastretta 11° engine, a class-leading dry weight of just 189kg (417lb) and the application of advanced ergonomics, the Multistrada 1200 is not only powerful and playful, but also a comfortable and versatile adventure on two wheels.

The Multistrada 1200 offers ABS as optional, while the flagship Multistrada 1200 S presents ABS and Ducati Electronic Suspension by Öhlins as standard equipment. The 1200 S is available in 'Sport edition' with carbon fibre components or 'Touring edition' with side luggage, heated grips and centre stand.inline_mediumwraptextright28241023/bikes/2010/146_1002_2010_ducati_multistrada_1200146_1002_01+2010_ducati_multistrada_1200_04+.jpgTrue

So what's all the hype for 2010?
The original Hypermotard was built to thrill, with its dirtbike stance, empowering, asphalt-attacking riding position and enough torque on tap to elicit a smile with each twist of the throttle. But what could really be changed to make it better? Ducati applied their usual engineering process of evolution to an already successful model by improving it in the two most effective ways possible: Less weight and more power.

Hot on the heels of its early model year 2010 launch in October, the lightweight 796 is now joined by an evolution of the 1100 model that rolls out at an incredible 7kg (15.5lb) lighter and 5hp more powerful than the original.

And if further weight reduction and more punch wasn't already enough on a bike that was built to thrill, the Hypermotard 1100EVO SP pushes the limits even further with a model intended to perform on the track as well as the street.inline_mediumwraptextright32398911/bikes/2010/146_1002_2010_ducati_hypermotard_1100146_1002_01+2010_ducati_hypermotard_1100_evo_09+.jpgTrue

RC8 R POWER PLANT

• 75-degree V-twin EFI 1195cc
• Bore/ Stroke 105x69mm
• 170 Hp, 90.7 lb-ft
• Only 136.9 lbs

More powerful, lighter and safer

The new DUCATI 1198, while maintaining the same look as the previous 1098, is in fact a totally new bike. The 1198, which produces a powerful 170hp (125kW) from its new Testastretta Evoluzione engine, and has a dry weight of just 171kg (377lb), incorporates all of the World Superbike technology derived directly from the 2008 World Championship winning race bike of Troy Bayliss.

The 1198 is powered by the powerful Testastretta Evoluzione, a liquid cooled, L-Twin, Desmodromic engine, the crowning glory of Ducati’s development and perfection of the L-Twin engine, that produces 170hp (125kW) @ 9,750rpm and a class-beating 97lb-ft (13.4kgm) of torque @ 8,000rpm.

From data acquisition systems integrated as standard equipment, to ingenious dual construction methods for its weight-saving single-sided swingarm and to the road-going Ducati Traction Control, Ducati’s innovative trackside solutions continue to flow.inline_mediumwraptextright32432487/bikes/2009/146_1002_2009_ducati_1198146_1002_01+2009_ducati_1198_08+.jpgTrue

Street Fighter. Café Racer. Sport Custom. Whatever you want to call it, the recipe for hooliganism on two wheels has pretty much stayed the same: start with a sportbike, rip off the front end and slap on some lights, ditch the low-slung clip-ons for a set of handlebars, move the pegs lower and basically personalize to the point where the final product is an abomination of what it started life as. In this world less is more and function doesn't always follow form. And that's cool.inline_mediumwraptextright25625951/bikes/146_0912_buell_1125cr_ducati_streetfighter_comparison_test146_0912_01_z+comparison_test+buell_1125CR_ducati_streetfighter.jpgTrue

Learn to ride by taking an MSF Basic Rider Course or Experienced Rider Course.

Visit www.msf-usa.org to find the schools in your state.

In our last issue's RSS, Miguel Duhamel, Mat Mladin and Ben Spies talked about their riding styles. This month, it's Jamie Hacking's turn.

Simply put, concentration is the key skill in taking in and processing information faster than your motorcycle is covering ground. It's also the determining factor in how quickly you can ride safely. It doesn't matter how strong your muscles are or how quick your reflexes react but how focused the gray matter between your ears stays on the job at hand.

1. At a recent open track-riding day we attended, we were stunned to see the amount of riders who were wasting a lot of time and physical effort using the clutch to upshift. The continuous rise and gradual fall of the engine's rpm between each shift as bikes roared by us in the pits had us wondering if there was an epidemic of slipping clutch plates that we didn't know about. While it may be an important ritual for beginner or novice riders, using the clutch for upshifts during aggressive canyon or track riding is totally unnecessary (unless, of course, your bike has some shifting/transmission issues that prevent using this technique). In fact, there are many riding situations where it can be a nuisance and even a hindrance to quicker and smoother riding.

One dictionary defines panic as "a sudden, overpowering, often contagious terror." That's a remarkably accurate description of panic as it applies to motorcyclists. From the countless motorcycle crashes I've witnessed and investigated over 25 years of street riding, 14 years of road racing and nearly a decade of full-time motorcycle track instruction, I can tell you that panic is by far the greatest cause of crashes. Ironically, it's an instinct programmed into our minds back when we were defending ourselves against saber-toothed tigers that's the culprit, not panic brought on by the more commonly feared left-turning vehicles, lack of traction, etc., that are usually listed as the greatest dangers to our motorcycling well-being.

Learn to ride by taking an MSF Basic RiderCourse or Experienced RiderCourse. Visit www.msf-usa.org to find the schools in your state.

Even At first glance, Kawasaki's ZR-7 reveals a careful combination of both current and classic (or at least 1980s) styling. The swoopy tank and bodywork clearly marks the ZR as a bike that was introduced in 2000. However, details such as the engine's big oil cooler and superbike-style handlebar say that this bike has more depth than just following current fashion trends. Perhaps the best way to consider the ZR-7 is as the average guy of motorcycling. He's not a couch potato because he works out a bit, but he's not a professional athlete either. Still, he's comfortable in a variety of environments. Similarly, this bike was designed for general purpose motorcycling with a sporting bent-but on a budget. Call it your bike for the active lifestyle.

Last issue we covered the importance of body position and steering techniques and how they relate to each other. The only truthful way to describe the optimum body position is that it will vary depending on the rider's style and preference as well as the bike's strengths, weaknesses and setup. Anyone who teaches that there is only one optimum body position isn't being realistic or particularly observant in watching the variety of styles seen at the top level of AMA Pro Racing here in the United States.

1. In last issue's RSS, we showed how smooth downshifting helps foster improved bike control. In fact, smoothness in all aspects of riding, whether it's braking, accelerating, or even body movements/weight shifts, can play a huge role in whether you're able to tackle your favorite road or track with confidence--or apprehension. You'd be amazed how much easier it is to go faster when your riding is relaxed, yet alert--not rushed and frantic. Pro racers refer to this as "trying too hard," and they often find that their lap times are slower because of it. When your physical actions on the controls are too "tight" and somewhat impulsive, you end up concentrating too much on those riding tasks, and trying to fix the mistakes that often occur because of that rough riding style.

1. Downshifting smoothly on a sportbike, especially while braking hard from high speed, requires a definite measure of skill and dexterity. In order to avoid upsetting the bike, the engine rpm must be matched to road speed when the clutch is fully disengaged, otherwise the rear tire will momentarily "chatter" and upset the bike as the engine is forced to match road speed involuntarily. This means that the rider must "blip" the throttle to raise the engine rpm during downshifts-but he must do this while simultaneously pulling on the front brake lever to slow down. While this riding skill is obviously necessary on the racetrack, it can also pay big dividends in street-riding situations where riding smoothly is a must; for instance, any situation where you are cornering and braking at the same time.

1. Downshifting smoothly on a sportbike, especially while braking hard from high speed, requires a definite measure of skill and dexterity. In order to avoid upsetting the bike, the engine rpm must be matched to road speed when the clutch is fully disengaged, otherwise the rear tire will momentarily "chatter" and upset the bike as the engine is forced to match road speed involuntarily. This means that the rider must "blip" the throttle to raise the engine rpm during downshifts-but he must do this while simultaneously pulling on the front brake lever to slow down. While this riding skill is obviously necessary on the racetrack, it can also pay big dividends in street-riding situations where riding smoothly is a must; for instance, any situation where you are cornering and braking at the same time.

We've all had it happen, and it's usually quite unpleasant. It's that point during your travels when the realization hits that you are completely unprepared for the intemperate weather Mother Nature is force-feeding you. Whether it's extreme heat, cold or precipitation, most meteorological annoyances tend to send the unprepared, gung-ho motorcycle traveler hightailing it to the nearest shelter-usually in the form of a nice temperature-controlled motel room.

In the previous RSS (Dec. '06), we discussed how our sense of speed can be impaired by panic, causing us to think that we're entering a corner too fast. This often leads to the desperate-and false-sense that we need to stay hard on the brakes as we lean into the corner. In my eight years of instructing thousands of students of all ability levels on racetracks across the country, I can tell you without reservation that this panic situation causes more crashes than all others combined.

Once its fundamental theory is understood, the skill of clutchless upshifting is typically mastered in a matter of minutes. For first-timers, snicking slickly through the gears without the clutch brings a smile of wonderment, as if they just learned a new magic trick.

One of the most frequent questions heard among riders centers around which gear to be in for a given corner. Often you're torn between high revs in a low gear or pulling a taller gear at lower rpm. Naturally, different engine sizes and configurations behave differently, and occasionally you'll find the perfect gear that pulls smoothly and strongly off a particular corner.

I like to think one of THE reasons I'm an effective riding instructor is that I'm not blessed with much natural talent. Consequently I've had to learn nearly every aspect of high-performance riding firsthand and often from my mistakes. It's good to learn from your mistakes, but it's even better-and often less painful-to learn from those of others whenever possible.

In Ama Pro Racing, World Superbike And MotoGP there's been a shift in riding styles. From the days of '80s and '90s heroes like Kevin Schwantz and Mick Doohan who were forced to wrestle powerful, unruly beasts to their will, a younger generation of riders typified by Valentino Rossi and Casey Stoner took over, rising from the high-corner speed ranks of 125cc and 250cc Grand Prix machinery to the more refined, better-behaved MotoGP bikes of today with their complex engine-management software and traction control. Actually Rossi's career dates from the final days of fire-breathing 500cc two-strokes (he won the last 500CC World Championship in 2001, then piled up consecutive MotoGP championships from 2002 to 2005), which likely contributes to making him the most versatile and perhaps most talented roadracer of all time.

Odd as it sounds, sometimes the most beneficial riding practice takes place between your ears with your eyes shut and the ignition switch turned off. Mental visualization is used in many sports, and I actually picked it up from a coach while shooting small-bore rifle competition in college. The benefits were immediate and obvious, so I quickly applied it to my roadracing as well.

It's often been said that there are probably more crashes from riders losing the front end in a corner than from overstepping rear tire traction and highsiding on the exit. The reason is that a motorcycle is made to function at its best under power; the inherent design of its chassis and suspension means that the machine is much more stable when power is applied. Anyone who has hit a false neutral in midcorner will tell you how difficult it is to control the bike when it's not under its own propulsion.

Ten years ago I signed on at Motorcyclist magazine and began commuting to work on a motorcycle over the busiest freeways and streets of Los Angeles. In those 10 years of commuting, two staff members had commuting accidents, neither of which caused significant damage or pain. That's five to seven editors riding to work every working day for 10 years. If we were the survey panel, the conclusion would be that commuting on a motorcycle is an extremely safe way to get to work. And with the proper skills, it can be.

A motorcycle's brakes are both its most powerful component and the most difficult to master. In nearly a decade of teaching high-performance riding on racetracks all over the United States, Germany, France and Japan, I can say with confidence that even those riders serious enough to go to high-end schools have difficulty getting much more than 50 percent of the braking potential from modern sportbikes.

As someone who's been lucky enough to ride some of the top superbike and grand prix machinery on many of the world's finest racetracks, let me assure you that there's still nothing more pleasurable than riding on a favorite road in a group of familiar partners. Fortunately for me, as a frequent guest tester for Sport Rider, it's also a common occurrence.

We know we're constantly harping on this subject, but we've seen one too many accidents lately that were caused by a rider getting into a corner a little too hot, locking up the brakes and/or straightening the bike, then running off the road. We can't emphasize enough how important it is to not only look where you want to go, but also to scan far enough ahead of yourself; this is basically a recital of the racing mantra, "Don't ride the front wheel." Riding a sportbike well means being in control, and although it may not appear that way, it's vitally important for a racer to constantly be on top of his motorcycle's handling. Since racers are more often than not traveling at warp speed, they must anticipate what their racebike is going to do long before it happens-which means looking far ahead of their present location. This is why racers seem to be checking out spectators on the side of the track when entering hairpins. Instead, they're looking at where they'd like to be in a 10th of a second. Yamaha 500 Grand Prix rider Norick Abe demonstrates.

1. Many times we have stressed the importance of looking ahead into a corner so that you can formulate a riding plan well in advance. Another benefit of looking where you want to go is that it can help save you when things get a little out of control; like when you're caught unaware in a corner going a little too fast. Obviously, these steps won't do you much good if you totally screw up and blast into a 30-mph corner at well over 100 mph, but if you find yourself running into a turn that tightens up unexpectedly, these points can help keep you rubber-side-down during a situation that probably qualifies as the number one trap for novice riders.

Overall Concept and Features.

The new BMW S 1000 RR is a highly innovative straight-four supersports from BMW Motorrad now making its world debut.

This true milestone in the world of sports machines combines engine output of 142 kW (193 hp) with overall weight of just 204 kg (450 lb) including fuel (183 kg/403.5 lb dry weight, 206.5 kg/455.3 lb overall with Race ABS).

Specifications of this calibre make this supersports machine not only an absolute highlight in terms of its power-to-weight ratio and performance, but also, equipped with Race ABS and DTC Dynamic Traction Control, a new benchmark in terms of riding dynamics, safety and innovation.

Team BMW Motorrad Motorsport has been playing an active role in the World Superbike Championship since the beginning of the 2009 racing season, the new S 1000 RR setting the foundation for the production-based racing machines ridden by BMW Motorrad's two works riders Troy Corser and Ruben Xaus.inline_mediumwraptextright27206705/bikes/2010/146_1003_2010_bmw_s_1000_rr146_1003_01+2010_bmw_s_1000_rr_studio_03+.jpgTrue