Ducati S4RS

A sportsbike engine in a naked chassis with all the quality components you can eat. A
wedding cake of a bike, dressed in the bridal gown but with the wicked intent of a best man on the pull.

The S4RS’s stylish, sensuous bodywork seems feminine. I’ll come right out and say it – in the same way as I’m not sure a ‘real’ man can sit comfortably inside a yellow, convertible Renault Megane – the S4RS is far from a symbol of masculinity.
Study it more closely (and objectively) and few bikes look as complex as the Monster. As Simon points out, it looks about as tidy as a scarecrow convention. It displays its function firmly on its sleeve like the Lloyds building in London or the
Pompidou centre in Paris. Those buildings are rightly held as works of modern art and it’s possible you could plonk this bike on a plinth in the V&A Museum for the same reasons. To the mechanically-minded eye the S4RS’s function is clear, it shouts motorcycle from every corner and curve – there’s the oilcooler, there’s the cam belt
cover, there’s the longest wiring loom on two wheels. Revvin’ lazy But enough of the
pontifi cating. It’s soft, small and long(not exageratelly). You stretch out your arms further, sit lower and, until we’d adjusted the shocking suspension settings it arrived with, the ride was far too soft. The combined effect of that, and a lazier-sounding motor, can quickly and easily fool you into thinking you’re not actually travelling very fast. Do not let that deceive you. It’s just as well this bike does have radial-mounted, superbike-spec Brembo brakes because you need them – the 999 Testastretta engine ensures this bike is fast. That 999 motor is widely considered to be a quieter and less revvy twin cylinder lump than its rivals.
Trust me, the reality is that the S4RS can shift plenty fast enough. The speed comes at you in suddenly, as in when you catch up with a caravan, or whisk into your favourite bends. Suddenly your actual velocity hits you between the eyes like the
biggest, fattest, juiciest bee exploding on your visor. On the road the lower and flatter chassis can help. Fast and smooth A-roads are a breeze and you have to try hard not to ride quickly. It loves waltzing along and with the lazy speed of the torquey Testastretta motor you can happily enjoy life inside your own little bubble of easy speed, probably more than you would on a faired sports bike. That’s not to say it doesn’t remain responsive and sharper than other Monster models if you knock down a gear and wind the throttle open. At the other end of the speed equation the
super-strong Brembo brakes can feel too fierce at times, especially if you’re feeling
nervous on a damp road in town.
The lower seat height, spread-eagle wide bars and flatter stance of the chassis makes it harder to feel for grip at the front, and this points to a general problem
with its standard set-up. It’s fast and long so you have plenty of time to consider what’s happening. Around Coram the Ducati feels like it’s pushing the front tyre and struggling to keep a tight line. Unless you’re having a minor panic on the brakes, the Michelin Pilot Power tyres are well up to the job of holding onto the tarmac, either on track or more importantly on the road.
The chief criticism of the Ducati S4RS though is a sudden feeling of old age.
My first instinct is to say Ducati needs to stop bolting shit on and revamping the
existing Monster. But the truth of the matter is an all-new Monster might be better, one powered by the new 1098 engine ideally.


Some Technical specs:
Engine
Essentially stolen from the stock 999, this is the Testastretta motor. It’s not the tidiest designed collection of casings, pipes and covers but you will not care about that when you’re aboard. Some say this adds character. 50mm throttle bodies, 12-hole injectors, revised airbox and cam timing are concessions from the 999 and to the
environment.

Brakes
Brembo radial caliper with a radial master cylinder on a 320mm disc means you have
superbike-spec stoppers and no mistake. These beauties work. Almost too well for the road tyre and soft standard suspension set-up. Not lacking performance.

Frame
Stronger tubing gives the S4RS more rigidity than other Monster models (with less
powerful engines). The red, steel tubular trellis frame is trademark Ducati though and if MotoGP’s Casey Stoner is anything to go by, possibly the best chassis type.

Suspension
Titanium nitride coated fork stanchions sit upside down in these gold forks. Ohlins
supply specially-tailored front and rear, fully adjustable suspension with bags of adjustment. Rear ride height can be adjusted too – and it needs to be for better
track performance.

Wheels/tyres
Michelin Pilot Power tyres are road biased but suit the Monster’s handling perfectly well, even on the track. The lighter (than standard Monster) matching white cast aluminium wheels carry classy Marchesini labels.

Knee Down Cornering

The main things you need for a knee down corner are:
1. A BIKE
Almost any bike will do. Yes, you can get your knee down on a scooter if you try hard enough.
So I don’t want to hear any excuses in this department. Sporty bikes are dynamically the best for this pastime due to their devoted chassis and compliant suspension, but from an ergonomic sense, sit up and beg bikes can be better because the knee is
physically closer to the ground. Tyres, likewise, are key. Make sure they are in
good nick and properly inflated and get them warm before any attempts.

2. A KNEE
Obviously, but body positioning is vital to touch terra firma. Positioning your body
like you’re doing your CBT is going to require massive angles of lean before you deck out, so sling a cheek and half of a buttock into the corner, look where you want to go and angle your knee just like they do on the telly.

3. A CORNER
Almost any corner can turn into kneedown nirvana if you’re prepared to attack it
with enough speed and you hang your body off far enough. But slower, constant radius turns are the easiest to learn the not-so gentle art. For this, read roundabouts.
They’re great to learn on as you can control your body position, throttle and steering inputs relatively easily. As you develop the skill other corners open themselves up to you, but don’t bite off more than your slider can chew.

FINANCIAL TIMES

Hey guys!
As I was posting some time ago, motorcycle news...who's buying what and who signes with what sponsors.
Some big names in biking have been bought and sold recently. Good news for us? Or not?
The first buy over to make headlines was MV Agusta flogging Husqvarna to BMW for an undisclosed sum. As usual, Agusta claims that the money raised will be channelled into developing new products for both MV - Cagiva. As usual, nothing will happen. BMW plan to run Husqvarna along the same lines as its Mini car brand – leaving it alone basically. Clearly BMW likes the idea of Husqvarna’s sales network as well as its younger customers switching to BMW in the future. In 2006 BMW sold 100,000 bikes compared to Husky’s 12,000.
Also in the news was Dainese buying Italian helmet producer AGV from its current Belgian owners. Strategically, it makes sense for Dainese, who now own every piece of kit worn by Valentino Rossi, from the toes of his boots to flies on his visor tear-offs.
It seems to be a money making bussines...and IT IS! But it's fun, too!
Dry roads, riders!

2008 Honda CBR 1000 RR

Hey guys!
Just trying to mmake up for the fact that I didn't post any new articles lately, of course, because of the lack of time in my schedule.
But as you are used to, IF you read my blog frequently, I like to compare same class motorcycles. Because all of them are highly rated and declared as "the best" in their class. I want to make that slight difference between them, but of course, that will be my oppinion. As I encouraged you to do, you can always leave comments if your oppinion differs from mine and we can discuss about it.
As I posted about the 2008 Yamaha YZF R1, it's normal that I must post articles about its rivals. One worthy of writing of, is the 2008 Honda CBR 1000 RR. It's a hell of a motorcycle, and just like the 600cc/middleweight class comaprison, I think that the Honda is the best. Maybe it's just me, but I don't think so. Anyway...after all, it's just a matter of taste. The brand new Honda is a super-fast literbike with the handling of a 600cc motorcycle but still, with the power of a 999cc liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder engine. If you have the chance, hust test ride it and you will see...

Some official Honda specs:
ENGINE


Engine Type 999cc liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder

Bore and Stroke 76mm x 55.1mm

Ignition Computer-controlled digital transistorized with three-dimensional mapping

Compression Ratio 12.3:1

Valve Train DOHC; four valves per cylinder

Carburetion Dual Stage Fuel Injection (DSFI) with 40mm throttle bodies, Denso 12-hole injectors


DRIVE TRAIN

Transmission Close-ratio six-speed
Final Drive #530 O-ring chain
CHASSIS / SUSPENSION / BRAKES
Front Suspension 43mm inverted HMAS cartridge fork with spring preload, rebound and compression damping adjustability; 4.7 inches travel
Rear Suspension Unit Pro-Link HMAS single shock with spring preload, rebound and compression damping adjustability; 5.4 inches travel
Front Brakes Dual radial-mounted four-piston calipers with full-floating 320mm discs
Rear Brake Single 220mm disc
Front Tires 120/70ZR-17 radial
Rear Tires 190/50ZR-17 radial

DIMENSIONS


Rake (Caster Angle): 23.3°
Trail 96.2mm (3.8 inches)
Wheelbase 55.4 inches
Seat Height 32.3 inches
Curb Weight TBD
Fuel Capacity 4.7 gallons, including 1.06-gallon reserve

OTHER


Available Colors
Red / Black : $11,599

Black / Metallic Silver :$11,599

Pearl Yellow / Black : $11,599

Candy Dark Red / Metallic Silver : $11,599

Black / Metallic Gray (2008 special color *) : $11,799

2008 Kawasaki Ninja 250R

Yes, your eyes are in good condition...it's a 250cc brand new Ninja from Kawasaki. What can I say...it's another Superbike on my taste, as I am into small motorcycles. And the 2008 Kawasaki Ninja 250R really suits my taste, at least for now. When i was the introduction it had at Las Vegas, Nevada at the 2008 Products Showcase, I was amazed. Very good performance, the aspect of the ZX 6R and ZX 10R but the small engine on it...it's just amazing. TO qoute the guys from Kawasaki, this motorcycle is "Quick, Affordable, Fuel Efficient, Easy to Ride and Great Looking". Those words are not only some random words but they are proven facts that will reveal more if you read on this article, where you'll find important facts about the new 2008 Kawasaki Ninja 250R, that will prove the above mentioned facts and then some.
First of all, the price of the new Kawasaki Ninja 250R is low...well, it is just cheap, coming in at $ 3499.(MSRP - the price can be changed by the manufacturer without any notice)
Further more, some official specs:

Engine Type Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, parallel twin
Displacement 249 cc
Bore & Stroke 62.0 x 41.2mm
Maximum Torque 21.7 Nm {2.21 Kgf/m} 16.0 lb-ft @ 10,000 rpm
Compression Ratio 11.6:1
Carburetor Keihin CVK30 x 2
Ignition TCBI with Digital Advance
Transmission 6-Speed
Final Drive O-Ring Chain
Cooling Liquid
Frame Semi-double cradle, high-tensile steel
Rake/Trail 26 degrees / 3.3 in.
Front Tire Size 110/70-17
Rear Tire Size 130/70-17
Wheelbase 54.7 in.
Front Suspension / wheel travel 37mm hydraulic telescopic fork / TBD
Rear Suspension / wheel travel Bottom-Link Uni-Trak with 5-way adjustable preload / 5.1 in.
Front Brake Type Single 260mm hydraulic disc with two-piston caliper
Rear Brake Single 220mm petal disc with two-piston caliper
Fuel Tank Capacity 4.8 gal.
Seat Height 30.7 in.
Dry Weight 333 lbs.
Overall length 81.9 in.
Overall width 28.0 in.
Overall height 28.0 in.
Colors:
Lime Green

Ebony

Passion Red

Candy Plasma Blue

Features:
DOHC 249cc Parallel Twin-cylinder Engine
- Compact parallel-twin design offers good mass centralization for superior handling
- Tuned to deliver smooth, step-free power with an emphasis on low- and mid-range power for rider-friendly response
- Pistons feature reinforced heads and strengthening in the pin boss area for increased durability
- Thick piston (longitudinally) rings help minimize oil consumption
- Combustion chamber design optimized to maximize combustion efficiency and reduce emissions
- Ample high-rpm performance will please riders using the full range of the engine

Cylinder head
- Refined intake and exhaust ports contribute to good off-idle response and smooth power delivery
- Valve timing and lift were designed for strong low- and mid-range torque
- Direct valve actuation ensures reliable high-rpm operability
- Valves with thin heads and stems reduce reciprocating weight

Carburetor
- Twin Keihin CVK30 carburetors fine-tuned for good power feel and low fuel consumption


Exhaust system
- 2-into-1 system contributes to the Ninja 250R’s low- and mid-range torque and smooth, step-free power curve
- Slightly upswept silencer extensively tested to determine chamber size, connecting pipe length and diameter to achieve least noise and most power
- Meets strict emissions with dual catalyzers; one in the collector pipe and the other in the silencer
- Using two catalyzers minimizes the power loss
- Positioning the first catalyzer as close to the exhaust ports maximizes its efficiency as well

Reduced mechanical noise
- Cam chain tensioner with an automatic adjuster, like that on the KX450F motocrosser, eliminates mechanical noise caused by a loose cam chain and reduces power-robbing friction loss
- Silencing mechanical noise allows the use of a freer flowing exhaust for a better sound quality
- Complex construction with reinforcing ribs helps eliminate airbox reverberation and reduce intake noise
- Air filter accessible from the side, for easy replacement

Liquid Cooling
- Latest generation Denso radiator offers superior cooling with minimal space and weight
- Ring-fan uses a quiet-running motor that also saves space
- Fins on the lower side of the crankcase further helps cool the engine

Six-speed Transmission / Clutch
- Involute splines reduce friction and backlash between gears and shafts for easier gear meshing and smooth shifting under power
- Spring-type clutch damper reduces jerkiness at very low speeds and minimizes shocks when rolling on and off the throttle for a smoother clutch feel
- Paper-base friction plates help increase clutch durability

Chassis
- Sturdy and durable diamond-style frame of thick-walled steel tubing offers confidence-inspiring stability at both high and low speeds
- Beefy swingarm bracket contributes to the frame’s rigidity and helps achieve an ideal chassis stiffness balance
- Square-tube swingarm with a 60 x 30mm cross-section further adds to rigidity

Suspension
- New 37mm telescopic front fork with firm settings contribute to the Ninja 250R’s smooth, stable handling and enhanced ride control
- Uni-Trak rear suspension compliments the rigid frame and re-tuned fork and provides great road holding ability
- Rear shock features 5-way adjustable preload, enabling ride height to be maintained whether riding solo or with a passenger

Wheels / Tires
- Features 17” wheels like its larger supersport brothers
- Low-profile sportbike tires on wide rims contribute to its easy, neutral handling at low speeds

Brakes
- Large-diameter, 290mm front petal disc and a balanced action two-piston caliper offers excellent braking performance and a natural, direct feeling at the lever
- Two-piston caliper grips the rear 220mm petal disc

Ergonomics
- Natural riding position with slightly forward-slanting seat and wide, raised handlebars

Bodywork
- Styling matches its larger-displacement Ninja supersport siblings
- Fit and finish of striking full-fairing bodywork on par with that of top-class Ninja supersports
- Aggressive dual-lamp headlight design, slim tail cowl and separate seats further enhance the supersport look
- Front cowling and windscreen offer the rider a substantial amount of wind protection
- Two helmet holders conveniently located under the rear seat
- Under-seat storage can hold a U-lock or similar device
- Two hooks under the tail and the rear passenger pegs provide anchor points for securing items to the rear of the bike

Instrumentation
- Instrument panel features an easy-to-read, large-face analog speedometer along with an analog tachometer, odometer, trip meter, fuel gauge and warning lights

2007 Yamaha Virago 250

Hey there!
As I started posting about my passion, that I share with you, I have been asked a lot of quiestions like "What motorcycle do you own?" or "What is your dream motorcycle?" and so on. Well, I think I can say, for many of us, that dream bikes can be found on ths blog...at least for me. But the first motorcycle that I ever dreamed about is the Yamaha Virago. Not too much...but I just love it, and I think I'm going to buy one. The 2007 Yamaha Virago 250 looks very nice...and I decided to post a review here on my blog.
Personally, I love V-twin engines...but when the exhaust pipes are one on each side of the bike...to get a "stereo" sound while riding...but the Virago type isn't bad at all...With all that chrome on it, giving it a cool, but retro look, will asure you the respect and the cool-factor you want. Not to mention the pleasure of riding it all shiny and roaring.

RRRrrrr...
Now to move on to some official facts...

Key Features:
Light weight and a seat just 27 inches from the pavement make the Virago 250 a great trainer as well as a great choice for riders who appreciate the fun that comes in small packages.
Dual exhausts, plenty of quality chrome and typical Yamaha attention to detail; this is one sharp little cruiser.
Front disc brake provides highly controllable stopping power.
Engine:
249cc air-cooled, 60-degree V-twin engine with a long, 66mm stroke produces plenty of bottom-end torque and smooth roll-on power.
Single 26mm Mikuni downdraft carburetor ensures optimal fuel/air mixing and delivery with superb throttle response.
Widely geared five-speed transmission makes the most of Virago 250’s powerband.
Easy, dependable electric starting.
Beautiful dual chrome exhaust pipes let the engine breathe and put out that classic V-twin rumble.
Automatic cam chain tensioner virtually eliminates maintenance and helps extend engine life.

Chassis/Suspension:
Longish, 58.7-inch wheelbase creates a long, low package with great handling and maneuverability.
282mm single front disc brake and a rear drum brake provide plenty of stopping power.
Plush and low stepped saddle keeps the center of gravity low and lets almost everybody flatfoot the pavement.
Telescopic front fork with 5.5 inches of travel provides a nice, smooth ride.
Twin rear shocks feature 3.9 inches of travel and adjustable spring preload for versatility under various loads.
Additional Features:
Extensive chrome details accent engine and side covers for incomparable, “big bike” fit and finish.
Stylishly sculpted teardrop fuel tank features 2.5-gallon capacity for excellent cruising range.
Chrome pullback handlebars are easy to reach and great looking.
Forward-set footpegs enhance rider comfort by creating added legroom.
Wide rear fender and front and rear wire-spoked wheels add the perfect classic, retro touch to this stylish package.

These are some pretty cool features(trying to be as detached as I can...thi is the bike I love after all...I will only say good things about it :p)

The full techincal specs look like this:

Engine
Type 249cc, air-cooled, SOHC, 60-degree V-twin
Bore x Stroke 49mm x 66mm
Compression Ratio 10:1
Carburetion 26mm Mikuni
Ignition Digital TCI
Transmission 5-speed
Final Drive Chain

Chassis
Suspension/Front 33mm telescopic fork; 5.5" travel
Suspension/Rear Twin shocks w/adjustable spring preload; 3.9" travel
Brakes/Front 282mm disc
Brakes/Rear 130mm drum
Tires/Front 3.00-18
Tires/Rear 130/90-15

Dimensions
Length 86.2"
Width 32.1"
Height 44.9"
Seat Height 27"
Wheelbase 58.7"
Ground Clearance 5.7"
Dry Weight 302 lb.
Fuel Capacity 2.5 gal.

Well, with all of this being said...I can't change my oppinion...I love it and I'm still waiting for an opportunity to buy it.
Oh, by the way...the base price of this motorcycle isn't high at all...in fact..it comes in cheap. The price that is recommended by the producer (that they can change anytime they want without being obligated to notice anyone) is just $3,499 for the stock pain-job that I presented here, too(Black Cherry). As far as I know, there is no other official paint-job available for this motorcycle.
This just looks like fun...riding in style while having fun on a low priced, cool looking, greatly maneuverable motorcycle.
If there is a Yamaha dealer near your place...go and test ride it for me...I'm curious about what other bikers think anout the motorcycle I love so much...
I'll leave you to decide if this motorcycle is as cool as I picture it...No more to say than...
Dry roads, riders!

2008 Yamaha YZF-R1

Hey guys!
I must admit, I was never into 1000cc super-sports. A little to much for my taste. A good 600cc/middleweight is very suitable for me...for now.
But while surfing the Internet, I came across the brand new 2008 Yamaha YZF-R1. It was just ... shiny. And the design...well, I'll let you decide for yourselves if this is as cool as I think. As I did more research on the model, I found out that it's "light, powerful and packed with trickle-down MotoGP technology and refind fuel injection" that, making it the most advanced open-class motorcycle ever built(at least, by Yamaha).
Enough with the small-talk...it's time to let facts and specs do the talking.

Official facts:


Key Features:
The YZF-R1 uses the YCC-T fly-by-wire throttle system for flawless response under all conditions.
Inline four-cylinder engine is the most powerful, tractable R1 powerplant ever, thanks partially to the world’s first electronic variable-length intake funnel system.
Slipper-type back torque-limiting clutch greatly facilitates braking/downshifting from high speed.
Aluminum Deltabox frame and swingarm take Open-class handling to the next performance level.
Six-piston radial-mount front brake calipers and 310mm discs generate the kind of braking power a bike like the R1 requires.

Engine:
Short-stroke 998cc DOHC, 16-valve, liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder engine produces more tractable power than ever.

Yamaha Chip Control Throttle controls a 32-bit ECU fuel injection system for super-responsive, smooth, instantaneous power delivery.
Yamaha Chip Control Intake electronically adjusts intake funnel length between either 65 or 140mm for an amazingly broad, smooth powerband.
Two-piece ergonomically designed fuel tank carries fuel in the rear section, for good centralization of mass, while the front half contains a Ram-Air-fed airbox for increased power.
Lay-down-design cylinder head optimizes weight distribution, straightens intake tracts for improved cylinder filling and allows frame to pass over instead of around the engine for great strength and a narrow chassis.
Closed-deck cylinder block increases strength and allows a narrow engine in spite of big, 77mm bores.
Narrow-angle four-valve combustion chambers produce a highly efficient 12.7:1 compression ratio; 31mm titanium intake valves and 25mm exhausts controlled by new, high-lift cams flow plenty of air.
Light and strong nutless connecting rods with fractured big ends produce a quick-revving engine with excellent high-rpm durability.
High silicon-content ceramic-composite cylinder sleeves ensure great heat dissipation for consistent power delivery and reduced friction.
Close-ratio six-speed gearbox with triangulated shaft layout for great strength, compactness, and quicker acceleration.
Ramp-type slipper clutch makes braking from speed into tight corners while downshifting smoother and therefore faster.

Titanium underseat exhaust system (with stainless steel midpipe and catalyst) provides excellent cornering clearance and a broad, seamless powerband.
13-percent greater radiator capacity and an aluminum liquid-cooled oil cooler maintain stable operating temperature.
Direct ignition coils, dual-electrode spark plugs and high-output magneto deliver extremely accurate, reliable firing.
AC generator behind cylinder block produces a narrow engine with excellent cornering clearance.

Chassis/Suspension:
A Deltabox frame tuned for optimal flex carries the lay-down four-cylinder stressed-member style for great handling and efficient aerodynamic penetration.
A truss-type swingarm is extremely strong and tuned for optimal traction and feedback.
Dual 310mm front disc brakes; new, six-piston radial-mount calipers and Brembo radial-pump front master cylinder with adjustable lever deliver amazing braking power and feel.
Fully adjustable KYB inverted telescopic front fork with 43mm tubes has been revalved to complement other chassis changes.
Piggyback rear shock now offers both high- and low-speed compression adjustability, rebound damping and a new, twist-style spring preload adjuster.
Light, five-spoke wheels enhance acceleration, deceleration, handling and suspension action.
Additional Features:
Cool headlights provide great illumination and distinctive style, while the LED taillight is light, bright and highly efficient.
Adjustable LCD illumination and multifunction digital gauges: adjustable shift light, odometer, dual tripmeters, water temperature, air temperature, full-time clock, lap timer and large 15,000-rpm analog tachometer.
A fairing with big Ram-Air intakes and screwless windscreen provides maximum aerodynamic efficiency and engine performance.
Sticky 120/70-ZR17 and 190/50-ZR17 radial tires for incredible grip and precise handling.
Forged footpegs are extra durable and light.
Extensive use of hollow bolts and lightweight fasteners helps trim overall weight.
8.6 AH battery is compact and light.
Durable #530 O-ring–sealed drive chain.
Standard toolkit located in convenient storage compartment under passenger seat.

Now the full technical specifications:

Engine:
Type 998cc liquid-cooled inline 4-cylinder; DOHC, 16 valves (titanium intakes)
Bore x Stroke 77 x 53.6mm
Compression Ratio 12.7:1
Carburetion Fuel Injection with YCC-T and YCC-I
Ignition TCI
Transmission 6-speed w/multi-plate slipper clutch
Final Drive #530 O-ring chain


Chassis
Suspension/Front 43mm inverted fork; fully adjustable, 4.7-in travel
Suspension/Rear Single shock w/piggyback reservoir; 4-way adjustable, 5.1-in travel
Brakes/Front Dual 310mm disc; radial-mount forged 6-piston calipers
Brakes/Rear 220mm disc; single-piston caliper
Tires/Front 120/70-ZR17
Tires/Rear 190/50-ZR17


Dimensions
Length 81.1 in
Width28.3 in
Height 43.7 in
Seat Height 32.9 in
Wheelbase 55.7 in
Rake (Caster Angle) 24.0°
Trail 4.0 in
Fuel Capacity 4.75 gal
Dry Weight 390 lb

Now, the new colors and matching prices(recommended by the manufacturer, may change without notice)
(Team Yamaha Blue/White) Available from September 2007 : $11,699


(Candy Red) Available from September 2007 : $11,699

(Raven) Available from September 2007 : $11,699

For now, it's the best 1000cc super-sport motorcycle that I wrote about, but, as I made a habbit of comparing same class rival motorcycles, I'll soon do some research on the Yamaha YZF R1's 1000cc rivals.
Dry roads, riders!

2008 Kawasaki ZX-6R

Hey bikers!
Another 600cc middleweight rival for the Yamaha YZF R6 and the Honda CBR 600 RR trying to make a name for itself. Both of them (the R6 and the CRB 600 RR) were "declared"...to me it seems more like "self-proclaimed" as the "best 600cc/middleweight motorcycle ever". But with each new motorcycle I reviewed on the blog, none of them could have been declared "the best". Because each motorcycle had its own advantages and disadvantages and the differences weren't huge. SO after all, it remains the reader's, or rider's choice to choose which one of the 600cc/middleweight motorcycle is "the best" for him/her. This can be done, at least on my blog, by writing some comments that I will review and post, so get on with your writing. I am writing for you, now you write for me :). And now, to get back on track...not the race track as I would like, but on the brand new Kawasaki ZX 6R's track. Earlier on my blog, I've posted an article about the ZX6R, but not a fully detailed review. It was more focused on the Akrapovic exhast system for the ZX6R. Very cool though. So...finally, to get to my point for tonight's article...the Kawasaki ZX-6R. It is known as a true race winner, the Ninja ZX-6R sportbike captured a 1-2 finish in the 2007 Daytona 200 and placed 1-2 in the 2007 AMA Supersport championship, thanks to a merger of 600-class power and Grand Prix handling. The result is an exciting racetrack weapon capable of cornering speeds previously unknown to the middleweight class while retaining the wide spread of power that is pure Ninja.

To deliver the performance required in the demanding racetrack environ, the Ninja ZX-6R’s ultra-high-rpm 599cc four-cylinder engine cranks out a fat powerband with a linear torque curve and hard-hitting acceleration across the entire rev range. Its impressive healthy mid-range torque and over-rev capability are pure race bike, allowing riders to stay on the gas where lower-revving machines are forced back off and shift.

The Ninja ZX-6R’s engine was specially designed for minimal internal friction, so it is more responsive and allows the rider to easily modify cornering lines with minor throttle adjustments. Utilizing stronger, stiffer and more compact engine components than its predecessors resulted in a slim and compact engine and chassis. Its racing heritage also includes a close-ratio cassette transmission that makes it easy to keep the ZX-6R screaming at its horsepower peak and a slipper clutch for quick downshifts that don’t upset the rest of the chassis.

A compact, lightweight chassis design permits the Ninja ZX-6R to make a fast entry –enhanced by the slipper clutch and powerful radial-mounted front brake calipers –and maintain more cornering speed throughout the turn.

The frame and swingarm were developed with an ideal balance of rigidity, so the bike responds instantly and precisely to the rider’s every command. Mass centralization, engine mount locations and a variety of other factors were optimized to help its instant turn-in characteristics. Once in the turn, the Ninja ZX-6R holds a line with precision and tracks through the apex as if it were on rails. Completing this track-biased package are fully-adjustable front and rear suspension units.

All these features mean very accurate chassis feedback, with the ZX-6R communicating every move directly to the rider. The machine responds more precisely and predictably to control inputs and shifts in body weight. The result is a motorcycle that becomes one with the rider.

The entire package of frame, suspension, engine and bodywork enhances the ZX-6R’s fun-to-ride factor while supplying the high-performance power of a 600cc Supersport racer and the nimble handling of a small-displacement GP machine. The results are faster cornering speeds, quicker lap times and even more worried looks on the competition’s faces. So let the opposition compromise performance for rider-friendliness; the Ninja ZX-6R is a pure expression of Kawasaki’s racing philosophy and is designed to take home trophies.

Full technical specifications:

Engine Type Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, four valves per cylinder, inline-four
Displacement 599 cc
Bore x Stroke 67.0 x 42.5mm
Maximum Torque 40 lb ft @ 11,500 rpm
Compression Ratio 13.3:1
Fuel Injection DFI® with four 38mm Keihin throttle bodies, oval sub-throttles, two injectors per throttle body
Ignition TCBI with digital advance
Transmission 6-Speed
Final Drive X-Ring Chain
Rake/Trail 25 deg / 4.3 in.
Frame type Aluminum perimeter
Front Tire Size 120/70-ZR17
Rear Tire Size 180/55-ZR17
Wheelbase 55.3 in.
Front Suspension / wheel travel 41 mm inverted cartridge fork with top-out springs, stepless rebound damping, stepless compression damping, fully-adjustable spring preload / 4.7 in.
Rear Suspension / wheel travel Bottom-Link Uni-Trak® with gas-charged shock, top-out spring and pillow ball upper mount, dual-range (high/low-speed) stepless compression damping, 25-way adjustable rebound damping, fully-adjustable spring preload / 5.2 in.
Front Brake Type Dual 300mm petal-type rotors with four-piston, four-pad calipers
Rear Brake Type Single 210mm petal-type rotor with single-piston caliper
Fuel Tank Capacity 4.5 gal.
Seat Height 32.3 in.
Dry Weight 368.2 lbs.
Color
1. Lime Green,

2. Candy Plasma Blue,

3. Vivid Yellow,

4. Special Edition: Ebony

And the factory revealed features...

Key Features
- Incredible power-to-weight ratio
- Race-oriented performance
- Track-tuned handling
- Aggressive aerodynamic styling

High-Revving 599cc Four-Cylinder, DOHC Engine
- Compact, narrow and lightweight design
- Tri-axis crankshaft and transmission shaft layout optimizes the engine’s center of gravity, reduces pitch changes during heavy braking and gives the rider more-accurate feedback from the chassis
- Light and strong forged pistons
- Narrow engine design gives excellent ground clearance

Four-Valve Cylinder Head
- Low cylinder head height with compact valve train
- Intake ports and coolant passages developed using flow analysis for efficient cylinder filling, more power, and maximum cooling efficiency
- Forged sintered aluminum spring retainers are half the weight of steel retainers and allow higher rpm

Ram Air Induction
- Central ram air duct offers a straighter path to the airbox for maximum intake efficiency and provides the mounting surface for the instrument panel, eliminating brackets and weight
- Flow analysis used to design efficient ducts to the airbox that also prevent water from reaching the air filter
- Compact airbox and air cleaner are highly efficient and contribute to the minimal riding position

Digital Fuel Injection
- 38mm throttle bore helps produce more torque in the mid-range, while short throttle body length delivers good over-rev characteristics
- Ultra-fine atomizing injectors aid combustion efficiency, for better power output and lower fuel consumption

TCBI Ignition with Digital Advance
- High-speed 32-bit ECU processor provides precise engine management
- Spark plug-mounted ignition coils are compact and help reduce weight

Pre-chamber Equipped Under-seat Muffler
- Exhaust header design contributes to improved exhaust efficiency
- Exhaust pre-chamber located below the engine contributes to better mass centralization
- Under-seat silencer is small and light to help mass centralization and allow for a more aerodynamic tailsection

Six-Speed Transmission
- Cassette-type transmission with a racing-style gear stack allows easier trackside ratio changes
- Close ratio transmission increases circuit performance

Racing-Style Slipper Clutch
- Racing-type slipper clutch reduces chassis disturbance when making rapid downshifts
- Optional springs, spring retainers and shims are available to fine-tune the clutch for specific track conditions

Gear Position Sensor
- Gear position sensor gives instant information to the rider, this is especially useful for improving consistency when testing settings on the racetrack
- System is compatible with the semi-automatic shifters (legal in AMA Supersport racing), which temporarily cut ignition to facilitate clutchless shifts at full-throttle

Lightweight Twin-Spar Aluminum Perimeter Frame
- Twin-spar perimeter-type frame is a mix of pressed and cast aluminum components welded together. This combination minimizes frame weight while still providing high strength and stability for responsive handling
- Chassis’s optimum center of gravity makes for easy roll response - particularly important negotiating a series of s-turns or returning to vertical after exiting a corner

Uni-Trak® Rear Suspension
- Uni-Trak® rear suspension system features pillow ball upper mount for a more direct feel and improved feedback
- Compact frame and engine allow a longer swingarm, which makes it easier to control rear wheel powerslides
- Rear shock is fully adjustable for preload, compression and rebound damping. Ride height can be adjusted by adding/removing optional 1mm shims at the upper shock mount
- Equipped with a top-out spring which improves the rear wheel’s ability to follow the road surface when the rear end is light under hard braking
- Small piggyback shock reservoir is designed to save weight

41mm Inverted Cartridge Front Fork
- Fully-adjustable 41mm inverted cartridge fork provides exceptional rigidity
- Equipped with top-out springs so the front wheel better follows the road surface when the front end is light during hard acceleration
- Bottom mounted main fork spring completely submerged in oil, minimizing cavitation and delivering stable suspension performance even under demanding racetrack conditions
- Stiff settings are suitable for track use

Radial Mounted Front Disc Brakes
- Radial mounted four-piston, four-pad front brake calipers improve brake feel over a wider range of operation
- A separate brake pad is used for each piston. Individual pads provide increased cooling efficiency and can absorb more heat without deforming or losing brake feel at the lever than a large single pad, so they maintain consistent brake feel lap after lap
- Petal design brake discs offer excellent cooling and warp resistance

Aerodynamic Bodywork
- Design is the most aerodynamically efficient of any Ninja sportbike available
- Three-piece front fender with light and compact projector beam headlights and integrated front and rear turn signals add up to high aero efficiency
- Small but highly efficient ram air duct
- Exhaust system’s under-engine resonator allows the use of a smaller under-seat muffler, which allows a cleaner tail section further minimizing drag
- Different color panels create a sporty, aggressive image

Riding Position
- Ultra-compact chassis permits a ideal man-machine interface
- Slim fuel tank design makes it easier to grip the tank and seat when hanging off in a turn

Advanced Electronic Instrumentation
- Multifunction odometer, tripmeter, clock and lap timer/stopwatch

Almost forgot...the price of this 600cc/middleweight beast looks like this :$ 9,099 - 9,399. Remember...this is the price recomended by the manufacturer. The price at your local Kawasaki dealer may be different(I think it can't be lower...)
P.S.: Don't forget about the comments, I am curious about your oppinion about there 600cc/middleweight rivals(if you didn't read it all, just comment saying which one, of the three 600cc motorcycles (Yamaha YZF R6,Honda CBR 600RR, Kawasaki ZX-6R)you like more)
Thanks.
Dry roads, riders!

The French Revolution - Wakan 1640

A new motorcycle company from France? It looks that way and their first bike is pretty nice. Wakan Motorcycles has produced the Wakan 1640, a single seat, V-Twin powered sport bike built around the AC Cobra idea of dropping a big American powerplant into a sporty European frame. And they managed to realize that...it has a very cool sporty design and a strong engine.

The Wakan 1640 starts with a single spine oil carrying frame, a 54 inch wheelbase, with inverted Ceriani forks mounted at 22 degrees. Power comes from a 100 cubic inch S&S V-Twin producing 115hp and 115 foot pounds of torque and those horses are moving a motorcycle that weighs only 390 pounds with oil, no fuel. The engine sports a single Keihin flatslide carb that gets ram air through a blower type scoop situated above the airbox cover. The fuel tank is below the seat, molded to double as a sort of rear mudguard with the filler mounted on the tailsection.
The engine has been dynamically balanced to reduce vibration plus the bar end weights help and the result is a much smoother bike than you might expect.
Braking chores go to a single 340mm front disc with a six piston caliper, which first road tester, Alan Cathcart, calls, “OK” but which might need to be tweaked a bit for serious stopping power. Cathcart also says the handling is similar to the Buell Firebolt XB12R but performance from the S&S V-Twin is definitely a step up.
The first 15 bikes are scheduled to be produced by October for €28,000 ($35,000),but as production ramps up the price is expected to fall quite a bit. The next 100 bikes for 2007 will retain the Keihin carb but afterwards, fuel injection will be necessary to meet Euro 3 emissions requirements in 2008.
This is no prototype bike, it’s ready for production now and pre orders are already trickling in. They’ve kept the bike totally under wraps during the three year development time and these first stories show a complete bike. Anyway, this is a limited edition, made in France bike.


Here are the complete technical details:
General information
Model: Wakan Road 1640
Year: 2007
Category: Naked bike


Engine and transmission
Displacement: 1640.00 ccm (100.07 cubic inches)
Engine type: V2
Stroke: 4
Power: 115.00 HP (83.9 kW)) @ 6250 RPM
Torque: 165.00 Nm (16.8 kgf-m or 121.7 ft.lbs) @ 4250 RPM
Bore x stroke: 101.6 x 101.6 mm (4.0 x 4.0 inches)
Fuel system: Carburettor. Keihin
Valves per cylinder: 4
Fuel control: OHC
Starter: Electric
Gearbox: 5-speed

Transmission type
Final drive: Chain


Physical measures
Dry weight: 177.0 kg (390.2 pounds)
Seat height: 790 mm (31.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Wheelbase: 1,370 mm (53.9 inches)

Chassis and dimensions
Front tyre dimensions: 120/70-17
Rear tyre dimensions: 180/55-17
Front brakes: Single disc
Front brakes diameter: 340 mm (13.4 inches)
Rear brakes: Double disc
Rear brakes diameter: 220 mm (8.7 inches)


Speed and acceleration
Power/weight ratio: 0.6497 HP/kg

Other specifications
Fuel capacity: 13.00 litres (3.43 gallons)
Color options: White, blue, black

Personally, I just love the fuel tank scoops and the overall design. Specs are good...I would just like to ride one, but until I get to France...

Peace and...
Dry roads, riders!

Promoting your bikes!

Hey guys!
I was surfing the Internet and browsing some motorcycle magazines when it hit me...I've got this idea: if anyone of you guys(yes, even YOU) owns a bike, and feels good about it, likes and loves it more than anything(an exception could be the soulmate, even though in some cases...bikes come first) and maybe has an interesting story to tell, or a crazy thing he did with his bike, and really wanna share the story with other bikers around the world but has no idea HOW to do it, I can HELP!
Just e-mail me some information about your bike, your story and some pictures of your bike and I will review it. If it's suitable for posting, you're close to famous. A lot of people will get to see your bike and your story and probably will laugh with you, cry with you or even learn a bit from your mistakes. But anyway, it will help people, and after all...this is the main reason...to help.

I hope I will get e-mails from you guys and get to colaborate in this.
Peace and...
Dry roads, riders!

2007 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-RR

Hey there!
I was always a sucker for Kawa's ZX 6R...well, "his" time will come on this blog...right now, I'd rather write about this super-superbike! The 2007 Kawasaki Ninja ZX RR. The Ninja ZX-RR is Kawasaki's race bike built for the MotoGP series.
The Ninja ZX-RR was Kawasaki's first MotoGP machine equipped with a 4-stroke engine, and after overcoming initial teething problems, began to show its potential. With the addition of rider Shinya Nakano
in 2004, the team kept improving and became capable of challenging the top teams for race honors. Nakano rode the lime-green, 990cc-engined machine to a second place podium finish at Round 8 in the Netherlands for his best finish of the 2006 MotoGP season.
It's just an awesome motorcycle, but I really don't want to pay for the insurance on all those cool racing parts...of course, it's a racing bike and the insurance is the least important fact. WHat really matters are the folowing facts...the technical specs...this is one of the fastest bikes I ever posted about on my blog...and I'm proud of it. I would love to just hear its "roar" on a race-day, not to mention that I would like to ride one...to own one. But besides the fact that it costs more than your mortgage...and that you must get a loan to buy one...(that, unless you're a rich spoiled kid, with fat, rich parents...or plain rich...) it's not available in a street fashion. Unless you can get your hands on a full-racing one...you'll just watch it on MotoGP.

Next on...the technical specs...check it out!



Full racing technical specifications:
Engine:
Type: Four-stroke
Configuration: Inline four-cylinder
Induction System: DOHC Pneumatic system, four valves per cylinder
Displacement: 798cc
Lubrication: Wet sump
Fuel System: Electronic Fuel Injection
Exhaust System: Titanium, four-into-two-into-one system
Maximum Power: In excess of 200 BHP
Maximum Speed: In excess of 300 km/h

Transmission:
Gearbox: Six speed, cassette type
Primary Drive: Gear
Clutch: Dry multi-plate slipper clutch
Final Drive: Chain
Lubrication: Wet sump

Chassis:
Frame: Aluminium twin-spar
Front Suspension: Inverted telescopic forks
Rear Suspension: Unit-trak Monoshock
Steering Damper: Hydraulic Adjustable
Bodywork: Carbon Fibre
Wheel Front: 16.5"
Wheel Rear: 16.5"
Tyres: Bridgestone

Brakes:
Front: 2 x 314mm carbon discs
2 x radial mount, monoblock, four piston calipers
Rear: 1 x 200mm ventilated steel disc
1 x two piston caliper

Dimensions:
Wheelbase: 1460mm
Overall Length: 2080mm
Castor (Rake/Trail): Variable
Seat Height: 850mm
Dry Weight: Over 148kg
Fuel Capacity: 21 litres

Key Suppliers:
Lubricants: Elf
Tyres: Bridgestone
Brakes: Brembo
Exhaust System: Akrapovic
Wheels: Magtan
Data Acquisition System: 2D Datarecording
Suspension: Öhlins
Clutch: FCC
Spark Plugs: NGK
Sprockets: AFAM
Chain: EK

Dream on...and...
Dry roads, riders!

Mv Augusta going WSB

Now, a short news bulletin that I thought of being important. As I was surfing the superbike news, I came across this...MV Augusta going in the World Superbike Championship...interesting. I always liked/loved MV Augusta and it's cool designed motorcycles, now, let's see how they'll do on the race-track.

MV Agusta and Carl Fogarty have joined forces for an assault on the World Superbike Championship. Foggy will be team manager with full factory support and they are
presently seeking sponsorship for their start in 2008. The team will use the new 1000cc F4 R312, based on the world’s fastest production machine, on which Martin Finnegan finished fourth in the Superstock TT in June.

Honda CBR600-RR

Even if earlier in my posts I have said that the Yamaha YZF R6 was the best 600cc sportbike ever, there are some folks...that kinda include me, too, that believe that the brand new CBR600 RR from Honda is better, and therefore gets the title of "the best 600cc sportbike ever" , as the guys from "Roadracing World" said.
Crowned the Best Middleweight of 2007 by both Cycle World and Rider magazines, the CBR600RR uses MotoGP-bred technology. Dual Stage Fuel Injection, Pro-Link rear suspension, HESD electronic steering damper, cool new colors for 2008. These are just a few of the new components of the super-sportbike.
Of course I don't want nor like other people making decisions for me...so I have to add a little touch to this. Maybe the guys from those magazines have different tastes than me and cannot be trusted...but the chances are low.
Ever since I started hanging out with bikers and riding, everyone told me: Honda's are the best! For begginers and for experienced riders, Honda. Because Honda's are the most reliable. If you are tidy and neat, you can own a Honda for a very long time, because they are not so trouble-making like other bikes. My brother owns a Honda...very cool naked, shaft drive motorcycle. Not my type though...
Anyway, let's see what the technical details of the brand new CBR say:
ENGINE



Engine Type 599cc liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder

Bore and Stroke 67mm x 42.5mm

Compression Ratio 12.2:1

Valve Train DOHC; four valves per cylinder

Carburetion Dual Stage Fuel Injection (DSFI) with 40mm throttle bodies, Denso 12-hole injectors

Ignition Computer-controlled digital transistorized with three-dimensional mapping


DRIVE TRAIN


Transmission Close-ratio six-speed

Final Drive #525 O-ring chain


CHASSIS / SUSPENSION / BRAKES


Front Suspension 41mm inverted HMAS cartridge fork with spring preload, rebound and compression damping adjustability; 4.7 inches travel

Rear Suspension Unit Pro-Link HMAS single shock with spring preload, rebound and compression damping adjustability; 5.1 inches travel

Front Brakes Dual radial-mounted four-piston calipers with 310mm discs

Rear Brake Single 220mm disc

Front Tire 120/70ZR-17 radial

Rear Tire 180/55ZR-17 radial


DIMENSIONS


Rake (Caster Angle): 23.55°

Trail 97.7mm (3.8 inches)

Wheelbase 53.9 inches

Seat Height 32.3 inches

Curb Weight 410 lbs (Includes all standard equipment, required fluids and a full tank of fuel—ready to ride)

Fuel Capacity 4.8 gallons, including 0.9-gallon reserve


OTHER


Available Colors Red/Black, Pearl Orange/Black, Metallic Silver, Graffiti

Model ID CBR600RR

Well...with these being written...all that remains to do is asking a question. That question is : "How much?"
Of course, the price varies along with the colors:
The answer to that wuestion is right here:

COLOR PRICING


Graffiti $9,899


Metallic Silver $9,599

Red/Black $9,599

Pearl Orange/Black $9,599

Cool site!

Hey guys! Even though this content is not related directly to my blog's content, this is not spam. It's just a very cool and useful site, usable for any industry.
Plain, simple, but also very useful. Anytime you want to convert your currency into another one...if you're comparing prices from your country with prices from other countries, or just checking out the daily evolution of the most important international currencies, this site will help you! I am using it pretty often to compare prices for offering a more detailed review of motorcycles.
Check it out! http://xrat.es
And sorry again for not posting for a while, but I've been way too busy for my computera and the Internet...I'll post some cool reviews soon. I am doing research on some bikes right now.
Peace!
Thanks, Danny.