Kawasaki’s KX250F impressed

The grounds-crew on-site kept everything nice and smooth on the track, so we ventured out to find some less ideal conditions. We found plenty of places to ride the new bike and it always proved steady and relatively stable for a race machine. Despite our best efforts, the green-machine never placed a tire wrong. The power delivery will never catch you off guard thanks to the four-stroker’s smooth power-band. We felt no undue spikes, just smooth power from low revs straight up to its power peak. That's not a bad thing in the least, especially when the conditions get loose. We found some very sandy off-road single-track nearby to tackle where we greatly appreciated the thinner center-section and light weight, all of which conspired to keep us on the bike and off the ground. What's more, the clutch proved very smooth and never grabbed throughout our entire torture-test.

Once again, Kawasaki’s KX250F impressed us with its peppy engine, nimble and composed chassis, as well as its versatile ergonomics package. From accelerating to turning to braking, this bike does it all well, plus it’s an easy motorcycle to ride. In fact, there are only two flaws we can find with the new KX - if you can even call them that. First, while we appreciate every aspect of the bike, there’s nothing that stands out in the “wow” factor. If Kawi could just squeeze a bit more engine power up top, or make it even more flickable this could easily be changed. Finally, dirt bike inflation continues with the MSRP increased by $500 to $6999. So does the new KX have what it takes to go against the redesigned 2010 Honda CRF250F and the rest of the class? We think so, and in a few short months we’ll have the definitive answer.

Engine: Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valve, 4-stroke Single
Displacement: 249cc
Bore x Stroke: 77.0 x 53.6mm
Fueling: DFI with 43mm Keihin throttle body and dual injectors
Compression Ratio: 13.5:1
Ignition: Digital CDI
Transmission: 5-speed
Final Drive: Chain
Frame: Aluminum perimeter
Rake/Trail: 28.2 degrees/4.7 in.
Front Suspension: 47mm inverted Showa SFF telescopic fork with spring preload, compression and rebound damping adjustability, 12.4 in. travel
Rear Suspension: Uni-Trak® linkage, Showa shock with low/high-speed compression, rebound and preload adjustment, 12.2 in. travel
Front Tire: 80/100-21
Rear Tire: 100/90-19
Front Brake: Semi-floating 250mm petal disc with 2-piston caliper
Rear Brake: 240mm petal disc with 1-piston caliper
LxWxH: 85.4 x 32.3 x 50.0 in.
Wheelbase: 58.1 in.
Ground Clearance: 13.0 in.
Seat Height: 37.2 in.
Curb Weight: 233.8 lbs. (claimed)
Fuel Capacity: 1.9 gal.
Color: Lime Green

READ MORE - Kawasaki’s KX250F impressed

Kawasaki KX 450F

The Kawasaki KX 450F has the hard hitting motor monster of the group,” agreed Milan. “On tracks with ample traction, nothing can run with the Kawasaki. The power comes on strong right off the bottom through the arm stretching midrange and continues to pull strong even on top.

Not only does the Kawasaki deliver the most amount of power, next to the electric-start KTM, it’s the easiest bike to start, requiring one or two kicks to fire. Although the Kawasaki’s five-speed transmission doesn’t feel like it meshes between gears a precisely as the rest of the bikes, it did perform without fault. We did notice a gap between second and third gears, but with such broad and robust power, it’s easy to work around. Kawasaki has the ability to run second gear longer, through a wider variety of terrain than the other bikes.

In order to keep the overall package light, the engine is kickstarted, but don’t imagine you’ll brake your leg or anything like that if your engine stops when falling. The ECU powers up at the initial movement at the kickstarter so you’ll hear bangs after a single kick.

And those bangs will be as smooth as you’ll ever get as the new larger AC generator rotor that makes sure to increase the rotational inertia of the engine. Also, the redesigned crankshaft will bring contribution so the new engine reduces vibrations to a minimum.

The cylinder head is 5 mm shorter and features revised intake and exhaust ports. This makes it rev higher, be more compact and lighter. It also gives an increased compression ratio of 12.5:1, which required a one-piece titanium exhaust for even greater low and mid-range throttle response.

Engine: Liquid-cooled, four-stroke single with DOHC and four valves
Displacement: 449cc
Bore x stroke: 96.0 x 62.1mm
Compression ratio: 12.0:1
Carburetion: Keihin FCR40
Ignition: Multi-map digital CDI with throttle position sensor (K-TRIC)
Transmission: Five-speed
Rake / trail: 27.1 degrees / 4.6 in.
Front suspension / wheel travel: 48mm inverted, Kayaba AOS with DLC coated sliders, 22-position compression and 20-position rebound dampening adjustment / 12.4 in.
Rear suspension / wheel travel: UNI-TRAK® linkage system with 22-position low-speed and variable high-speed compression dampening, 22-position rebound dampening and fully adjustable spring preload / 12.4 in.
Front tire: 90/100-21
Rear tire: 120/80-19
Front brake: Semi-floating 250mm petal disc
Rear brake: 240mm petal disc
Overall length: 86.0 in.
Overall width: 32.3 in.
Overall height: 50.4 in.
Wheelbase: 58.5 in.
Ground clearance: 13.58 in.
Seat height: 38.0 in.
Dry weight: 220 lbs.
Fuel capacity: 1.9 gal.
Color: Lime Green

READ MORE - Kawasaki KX 450F

Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R

Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R proves that engineers and designers really did their homework as the bike was totally redesigned. The engine’s cylinder capacity was decreased back to 599cc and tuned for high-revving performance. Also, the bike is more compact and a greater sharp-handler. 2007 model year carries over to 2008 without major changes.

The 2006 ZX-6R defined the cutting edge of the mid-weight supersports class. Its distinctive cowling and purposeful underseat exhaust contribute to the lowest ever Ninja drag coefficient - so much so that it effectively adds the equivalent of 10ps at the extreme of performance.

Instruments/Immobiliserenlarge imageGood to go. Lightweight instrument package with bar-type LCD tacho and digital LCD speedo includes adjustable shift indicator lamp and lap timer. Immobiliser prevents jealous creeps from playing with your pride and joy.

Front Cowlenlarge imageDon’t mess with me! Aggressive new look, improved aerodynamics, flush-surface signals and a more efficient Ram Air intake give the new 6R the meanest face in town.

Suspensionenlarge imageTrack or street. Complementing the sturdy 41 mm fork is a race-developed, bottom-link rear suspension system with new linkage ratios and settings. Of course, both are fully adjustable.
Under-seat Exhaust enlarge imageTrack bred. Racing-style, all-stainless under-seat exhaust system improves the bike’s aerodynamics, increases cornering clearance and looks very, very cool.

Chassisenlarge imageEven the frame is new for ’05. Short-wheelbase, aluminium perimeter frame makes the 6R the bike to beat when the tarmac starts to twist and turn.

Front Brakeenlarge imageSpinning between the legs of the fully adjustable inverted fork are 300 mm petal front disc brakes gripped by radial-mount calipers operated by a radial-mount brake master cylinder. Powerful stuff.

Swingarmenlarge imageNew, 10R-style braced, aluminium swingarm is lightweight and super stiff - one more reason for the 6R’s brilliant handling performance.
Dual Injectionenlarge imageFor high power and hard-hitting torque across the rev range, the 6R engine employs extra-fine fuel atomisers in the 38 mm throttle bodies plus a set of secondary injectors located in the airbox.

Oval Sub-Throttlesenlarge imageEngines need air to breathe. The 6R is the first production motorcycle to feature a set of trick, large-area oval sub-throttles. The oval-shaped design allows intake efficiency to be increased without compromising the slim engine design.

Exhaust Deviceenlarge imageDelivering smooth throttle response in the low- and mid-range, and huge power at top end, the new 6R’s under-seat muffler is equipped with an electronically controlled exhaust valve which automatically tunes the exhaust for maximum performance at all rpm.
Back-Torque Limiterenlarge imageAlso new for ’05 is a racing-style backtorque limiter, for smooth downshifting from high rpm. Specially designed for Kawasaki’s World Supersport racing machines, this technology is now standard equipment on the new 6R

The fairing is completely new and it features an aerodynamic shape that offers improved wind protection for the rider and also minimizes the effect of crosswind. Even though completely redesigned, the front end gives the impression that things could have gone much better as the headlights are practically masked into the fairing and the windscreen looks completely separated from it. The mirrors are a high point though as they offer good rear end visibility so at least the bike is practical if not beautiful. Also up front, the one-piece fender annihilates any form of attraction that this bike might still have exerted on a Kawi fan.

At the rear end, the new inner fairing is mounted above the swingarm and reduces turbulence while keeping the tail clean. The massive exhaust muffler looks perfectly integrated even though it isn’t as discrete as the one of the Honda (underseat exhaust) and Yamaha.

Wheels are 17-inch five-spoke aluminum and they are black-painted no matter the color of choice for your 2010 Kawasaki ZX-6R. By the way, this can be Passion Red, Metallic Spark Black or Lime Green/Metallic Spark Black.

Model: Kawasaki ZX-6R Ninja
Year: 2001
Category: Sport
Rating: 79.8 out of 100. Show full rating and compare with other bikes
Engine and transmission
Displacement: 599.00 ccm (36.55 cubic inches)
Engine type: In-line four, four-stroke
Power: 111.00 HP (81.0 kW)) @ 12500 RPM
Torque: 66.00 Nm (6.7 kgf-m or 48.7 ft.lbs) @ 10000 RPM
Top speed: 258.0 km/h (160.3 mph)
Bore x stroke: 66.0 x 43.8 mm (2.6 x 1.7 inches)
Valves per cylinder: 4
Fuel system: Carburettor
Cooling system: Liquid
Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type,
final drive: Chain
Chassis, suspension, brakes and wheels
Front suspension travel: 120 mm (4.7 inches)
Rear suspension travel: 135 mm (5.3 inches)
Front tyre dimensions: 120/65-ZR17
Rear tyre dimensions: 180/55-ZR17
Front brakes: Dual disc
Front brakes diameter: 300 mm (11.8 inches)
Rear brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes diameter: 220 mm (8.7 inches)
Physical measures and capacities
Dry weight: 172.0 kg (379.2 pounds)
Power/weight ratio: 0.6453 HP/kg
Seat height: 830 mm (32.7 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Wheelbase: 1,400 mm (55.1 inches)
Fuel capacity: 18.00 litres (4.76 gallons)
Other specifications
Starter: Electric
Further information
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Vulcan 2000 features

The Vulcan 2000 features a powerful four-bulb, projector-type headlight encased in a signature chrome nacelle. A chrome instrument panel with large-face speedometer is mounted on a stretched flange-free fuel tank, and the V-shaped panel keeps the rider informed with an LCD display and warning lamps. The bucket-type saddle with locking passenger seat complements the Vulcan 2000’s long, curving silhouette while providing all-day riding comfort.

The Kawasaki Vulcan 2000 gets its power from a 2053cc, OHV, liquid cooled twin-cylinder engine. The Vulcan 2000 also has cooling fins to aid in keeping the engine running at the optimum temperature. Fuel is delivered via an electronic fuel injection system. The ECU (Engine Control Unit) manages both the fuel injection and digital ignition systems to optimize throttle response. The ECU also receives input from the transmission to assist with performance.

Kawasaki didn't simply set out to build the biggest production cruiser. They wanted to create an incredibly powerful and well-handling machine that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the loins. The engineers put in ample time to ensure this bike was ridable in every manner. The Vulcan was designed to do things other than go from point A to point B in a straight line like some of its powerful brethren. Yes, Kawasaki considered that some people enjoy touring curvaceous roads and canyon carving as well as cruising their local boulevard.

But let's be honest, they didn't name the bike after its displacement by accident. Nestled in the double-cradle steel frame is the 2053cc (125.3 cubic-inch) liquid-cooled V-Twin, and it's everything you'd expect and more from a bike that is the largest production twin cylinder on the market. Basically, a twist of the throttle elicits an instant response from the rear wheel, pumping out torque that can be matched by only a handful of stock machines on the market, sportbikes included.

Engine: Type 4-Stroke, Liquid-Cooled, OHV, 4-Valve Cylinder Head, 52° V-Twin
Displacement: 2053 cc
Bore and Stroke: 103.0 x 123.2 mm
Maximum Torque: 141 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm
Compression Ratio: 9.5:1
Carburetor: DFI with Keihin 46mm Throttle Bodies (2)
Ignition: TCBI with Digital Advance
Transmission: 5-Speed
Final Drive: Belt
Rake/Trail: 32°/7.2 in.
Front Wheel Travel: 5.9 in.
Rear Wheel Travel: 3.9 in.
Front Tire Size: 150/80-16
Rear Tire Size: 200/60-16
Wheelbase: 68.3 in.
Front Suspension: 49mm Hydraulic Telescopic Fork
Rear Suspension: Single Shock, 8-Way Rebound Damping
Front Brake Type: Dual 300mm Discs with 4-Piston Calipers
Rear Brake Type: Single 320mm Disc with 2-Piston Caliper
Fuel Tank Capacity: 5.5 gal.
Seat Height: 26.8 in.
Dry Weight: 750 lb.
Color: Metallic Ocean Blue/Metallic Phantom Silver, Ebony/Galaxy Silver.

READ MORE - Vulcan 2000 features

Hyosung GT 250 Comet

The Hyosung GT125R is definitely way above average for the budget 125cc class, as it shares the same substantial chassis as the 250. That makes it heavier than a 125 should be, but you get sporty USD forks and a gas charged monoshock ride. The 250cc motor gives you the power to work the chassis a bit and though it's no Aprilia RS250, the Hyosung 250 is a commuter with some credibility in the corners.

Features & Benefits

- Inverted Forks Provide great Feedback, a compliant and confidence Inspiring ride.
- Strong and powerful 2 cylinders V-TWIN DOHC 8 valve engines
- Double cradle type of hardness frame that improves more running stability.
- Large-size disk brake that employs double piston caliper with strong brake force.
- Wide tubeless and rear hydraulic disk brake that improve running performance and brake force.
- Large size halogen headlamp (60/55 W) that combines polished flavor and excellent visual recognition.
- 2-IN-1 type of high power and low noise muffler that improve throttle responsiveness reformatively.
- High-capacity fuel tank of 17l that gives better convenience in running long distance.
- Innovative Mono-link shock absorber that keeps stable suspension.
- Convenient storage space and maintenability.

Make Model Hyosung GT 250 Comet
Year 2004-06
Engine Liquid cooled, four stroke, 75° V twin, DOHC, 4 valve
Capacity 248
Bore x Stroke 57 x 48.8 mm
Compression Ratio
Induction 2x 26mm Mikuni carbs
Ignition / Starting - / electric
Max Power 30 hp 22.4 KW @ 10500 rpm
Max Torque 20.6 Nm @ 7300 rpm
Transmission / Drive 5 Speed / chain
Frame Steel, double pipe
Front Suspension 41mm Oil upside down forks, 120mm wheel travel
Rear Suspension Swinging arm, 100mm wheel travel.
Front Brakes Single 300mm disc
Rear Brakes Single 230mm disc
Front Tyre 110/70 -17
Rear Tyre 150/70 -17
Seat Height 780 mm
Dry-Weight 150 kg
Fuel Capacity 17 Litres

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KAWASAKI Z 1000 2010

The KAWASAKI Z 1000 2010 takes the aggressive styling of its predecessor a step forward. From the sharply sloped front cowl design made possible with the slim new line-beam headlamp, to the minimalist tail section, the new Z1000 presents a very condensed, mass-forward image. This dynamic design is reinforced by the front fork covers and wide shrouds adorned with intakes for the new Cool Air system. Where its predecessor formed the image of an athlete poised to explode out of the blocks, the new Z1000 gives the appearance of a dangerous predator feigning sleep - though no less ready to leap forward without a moment's hesitation.

Condensed, Mass-forward Image for Dynamic Design
Sharp front cowl slopes back at an acute angle, contributing to the aggressive design and the image of a low, forward-located centre of gravity.

The Z1000’s four-cylinder uses a longish stroke—56mm—to make the most impact in the rpm range most used by naked bike riders. Long-stroke engines keep intake air velocity up for maximum midrange power whatever the displacement. From nearly any rpm, rolling the Z1000’s throttle open provides the kind of instant gratification most sportbikes just can’t quite muster. Having said that, this engine also spins up noticeably faster from about 7000 rpm upwards, with a silky smooth, highly intoxicating response.

What more do you need? Not much. How about new five-spoke wheels, with spokes machined near the rims for a custom-wheel look. We carried forward the quad-pipe theme from the last Z1000 (and the first Z1), but an under-engine pre chamber let the engineers use shorter mufflers for great looks, better mass centralization and light, quick handling. A solid-mount handlebar and aluminum footpegs lifted from the Ninja ZX-10R complete with machined edges contribute to the Z1000’s direct feel.

Engine: Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, four valves per cylinder, inline-four
Displacement: 1043cc
Bore x Stroke: 77.0 x 56.0mm
Compression Ratio: 11.8:1
Fuel Injection: DFI with four 38mm Keihin throttle bodies, oval sub-throttles
Transmission: Six-speed
Final Drive: X-ring chain
Rake / Trail: 24.5 degrees / 4.1 in.
Frame: Aluminum Backbone
Front/Rear Tire: 120/70 ZR17, 190/50 ZR17
Wheelbase: 56.7 in.
Front Suspension / Wheel Travel: 41 mm inverted cartridge fork with stepless compression and rebound damping, adjustable spring preload / 4.7 in. Rear Suspension / Wheel Travel: Horizontal monoshock with stepless rebound damping, adjustable spring preload / 5.4 in.
Front Brakes: Dual 300mm petal-type rotors with radial-mount four-piston calipers
Rear Brake: Single 250mm petal-type rotor with single-piston caliper
Seat Height: 32.1 in.
Fuel Capacity: 4.1 gal

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Aprilia RSV4 FACTORY

Aprilia RSV4 FACTORY is a racing machine that, in line with the Aprilia tradition, follows a completely innovative approach in its design and construction. Its narrow V engine, the use of state-of-the-art electronics,plus its lightness and extreme compactness are only a few of the features that make it unique in the world. Aprilia RSV4 FACTORY is designed and built with the same philosophy adopted by the Aprilia race division. This is why RSV4 FACTORY is the most “complete” Superbike racing replica, ready for those who want to venture onto the track with a class leading motorcycle.

This new technology is brought together in the APRC (Aprilia Performance Ride Control) package, basically the state of the art in dynamic performance control, a multi-patented system that makes Superbike winning technology available to professional racing riders and hobby riders alike. All this comes in an easy to use, intuitive package.

Aprilia RSV4 Factory APRC SE's improvements are not limited to the electronic management system. The 65° V4 engine offers improved lubrication and closer spaced gears for better acceleration. The new, lighter exhaust features an advanced butterfly valve management system to suit the Ride By Wire mapping for improved breathing and efficiency throughout the RPM range.

In addition, the Aprilia RSV4 Factory APRC SE is the first super sport bike sporting the homologated new-generation extra performance dual blend 200/55 tyres developed in collaboration with Pirelli based on the expertise gathered on World Superbike racing circuits.

Aprilia Performance Ride Control, the electronic management package including:
ATC: Aprilia Traction Control automatically adjusts to different types of tyres, with 8 settings conveniently selectable while racing from a joystick on the left handlebar without turning down the throttle;
AWC: Aprilia Wheelie Control with three settings;
ALC: Aprilia Launch Control, for use on the track only, with 3 settings;
AQS: Aprilia Quick Shift, for ultra-fast shifting without closing the throttle or using the clutch.

- Dual display mode for instrument panel display: ROAD and RACE;
- New exhaust is lighter and offers improved performance;
- Optimised gear ratios for the utmost track performance;
- Improved engine lubrication;
- New, exclusive 200/55 dual blend rear tyre.

READ MORE - Aprilia RSV4 FACTORY