New Bikes: Suzuki Shogun 125RR and 125SP

Suzuki Shogun 125 RR and Suzuki Shogun 125SP
(click to enlarge)

I know this post is a little bit late. I was thinking whether to include this bike or not on this blog because this blog is mostly about Yamaha cub bikes but I can't resist the temptation given by Shogun 125 SP by Suzuki.
When I was studying in secondary school, my father bought me a Suzuki Best 110. At that time, there were Yamaha SS 110 and RG Sports 110 as the contender to Best 110. So, I think it is also relevant to put it into this blog.
The wow element that I can find in this Shogun is on the installation of front and rear disc brake. Front and rear disc brake is very hard to find fitted on cub bikes. The bikes that I know have this kind of installation is Yamaha 125Z and Suzuki RGX 120 in Malaysia. In Thailand, it is a different story because they have a lot of cub bike fitted with front and rear disc brake like Honda Sonic, Honda Nova, Kawasaki Leostar, Yamaha X1R and many more.
The other good element in this Shogun is the availability of manual hand clutch which gives better acceleration and torque to the bike. The other bike that have manual hand clutch is Yamaha LC135ES only.
The sport rim is also my favourite because it features the Y-spoke. Y-spoke sport rims is used in many popular bike like Aprilia RS125 and Kawasaki Ninja ZX250R. Both which are also my favourite bike other than Yamaha.
The downside of this bike is the use of old style rear suspension which is still NOT monoshock. This make the overall looks of the bike look safe and nothing special. You can modified your LC135 to get front and rear disc brake, but it is much much harder to change the double shock system to monoshock system. One more thing is about the displacement(cc) of the Shogun. It is only 125cc where nowadays the buzzword is 135cc. I really think Suzuki need to do something about it.
For more information, head up to here.
Shogun 125 RR (Clutch auto) RM5,253.75
Shogun 125 SP (Clutch manual) RM5,400.25

via : motomalaya.blogspot.com

The Suzuki SV1000S, Good Secondhand Choice

The Suzuki SV1000S is a superb new or secondhand motorcycle choice, the 1000cc V-twin engine is placed in a simple roadster chassis with a frame-mounted half fairing and fully adjustable suspension motorcycle. The Suzuki SV1000S is easy to ride, also very good on the power side and comfort – but somehow just a little bland, which is probably why it never sold in large numbers worldwide. Still the Suzuki SV1000S can be bought relatively cheap compared to what it offers.

The Suzuki SV1000S look similar to the Suzuki SV650, but with twin exhaust pipes. Stock one are quiet but they're easy to replace and replacement can increase the horses pulling this motorcycle.

The liquid-cooled, 4 valve DOHC per cylinder, four-stroke 1000cc V-twin engine is the same as in the Suzuki V-Strom DL1000 big trail style motorcycle. It's then no surprise that the SV1000S engine produces about 120 horsepower.

In the early days of this engine the biggest glitch was a incorrectly machined crank on some earlier models, which caused a horrible knocking sound. But then it was just a sound and nothing was actually going to break.

Riding the Suzuki SV1000S is a pleasure, the handling of the Suzuki SV1000S is excellent, cornering is very easy. Comparing the SV1000S with its smaller brother we have to conclude that the SV1000S is actually easier in the corners then the Suzuki SV650. The suspension of the Suzuki SV1000S isn't the best but it is fully adjustable. It's worth experimenting with it if you're not happy with the handling. Adjusting the suspension can make a huge difference to the riding pleasure.

copy from : http://www.motorcycle.in.th

The Yamaha XJ6, the cool new middleweight

2009 sees an addition to Yamaha’s middleweight collection in the dynamic new Yamaha XJ6, the naked version of the 2009 Yamaha XJ6 Diversion with a character all of its own. This striking all-new 600 with its lightweight new chassis, stylish bodywork and low seat height is ideal for both new and experienced riders looking for a beautifully-designed performance middleweight.

Technically the Yamaha XJ6 shares the same bases as the Yamaha XJ6 Diversion, but with a contemporary and agile roadster look. Its newly-developed four cylinder engine and responsive torque makes this The cool all-rounder – whether you’re on the motorway, in town or on twisting back roads this bike has a consistency of performance to delivery a truly special ride every time.

Complementing the wardrobe of the Yamaha XJ6 are several new accessories for an extra practical touch or hint of individualism. A rear carrier complete with top-case stands alongside a flip-up screen and a new range of soft and durable luggage bags. The Yamaha XJ6 engine guards, among other items in the spectrum of add-ons, show the high degree of quality, design and style typical of all products leaving Yamaha’s factory floors.

The Yamaha XJ6 is powered by a 600cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke inline 4-cylinder engine with all-new internals, this cool-looking middleweight delivers easy controllability together with strong all-round performance. A newly designed easy-action clutch makes for smooth gear shifting, and the stylish 4-1 exhaust and compact midship muffler give this new 600 a seriously sporty image. The combination of a lightweight tubular diamond-type frame together with 41mm front forks and an efficient Monocross rear suspension system ensure agile handling performance in the city, through mountain passes and out on the highway. A low seat height enhances overall controllability at low speeds – and ABS available as an option.

copy from : http://www.motorcycle.in.th

Secondhand Honda CB600F Hornet, Toughest Bike

The engine from the old model Honda CBR600 sportbike, detuned via smaller carburetors for more midrange, in a new steel backbone frame but with wide, flat bars and no fairing. It has budget clocks and basic specifications. Early models had a 16 inch front wheel this was later switched for a 17 inch. A 5mm increase in the wheelbase tamed the Honda Hornet's manic nature a little. Later on there was a half-faired option. The Honda Hornet was revamped in 2003.

Early models of the Honda Hornet CB600F can be twitchy. The engine's great, but the 16 inch front wheel and bouncy suspension can make it a handful on bumpy roads, though the wide bars help you keep it pointing in the right direction. Fuel efficiency and poor range spoil the picture 12.5km/l. And 145km to reserve is typical, so don't try touring on a Honda Hornet CB600F. And forget throw-over panniers with that high-level exhaust. In late 1999 it got a 17 inch front wheel to improve handling, with a 120 section tyre in 2000 to sweeten the steering.

For the people thinking about quality of the Honda CB600F. This is one of the toughest motorcycles ever built – and it's detuned to boot. Keep the oil changed and it won't break. The one weakish spot is the camchain tensioner, which may stick – listen for a rattle on start-up that goes away as the engine warms. Unbolting the tensioner unit from the back of the block and fitting a new one is a 15-minute job and the unit costs not that much. Enthusiastic wheelie merchants might break second gear and will certainly nadger the steering head bearings, but that's it.

The Honda CB600F Hornet is somewhat of a cult bike, so holds its value quite well. Yamaha's old-model FZS600 Fazer is the obvious rival: similar performance, better economy and range, excellent throttle response, comes with a centrestand and top fairing but without the Honda Hornet's lunatic edge.

copy from : http://www.motorcycle.in.th

The Tiger Boxer 250 RS, the Thai All-Rounder bike

The Tiger Boxer 250 RS all-rounder. Now there's a whishy-washy term. Giving motorcycles labels – sportbike, tourer, cruiser – gives us a mental picture of what we're getting. But the 'all-rounder' badge often suggest a bland compromise that's neither nowt nor summat.

Or it used to. Recently the all-rounders have become leaner and more capable. In Thailand the all-rounder bikes come from Tiger Motorcycle, which manufactures the Tiger Boxer 200 R and the Tiger Boxer 250 RS they offer genuine all-day comfort, practicality and ease of use in packages that can also excite.

Tiger Motorcycle's new Tiger Boxer 250 RS follows the trend for taller, more upright all-rounders. It's based on a perky 250cc single cylinder engine, slim flanks, low weight and firm suspension. It has a roomy riding position and ample pillion space to keep it useable. It even has optional hard luggage.

Looking at the Tiger Boxer 250 RS, with its sporty looks, newly designed aluminum swingarm and inverted front forks, it is hard to belief that this motorcycle has no competition on the Thai motorcycle market. The closest rival would be the Kawasaki Nina 250R, but the Kawasaki is more a sportbike, and cost twice as much so the Tiger Boxer 250 RS should be just what you need. That's the theory, anyway. Dicing with traffic, pedestrians and urban chaos is demanding and the Tiger Boxer 250 RS rules in the city, while offering enough power and riding comfort to do some out-of-town touring.

The Tiger Boxer 250 RS shines at his job as all-rounder bike, particularly the engine. The engine can rev remarkable easy, without being to revvy in nature, the 250cc single cylinder give a smooth surge between 6000 to 8500rpm that's perfect at real road speeds.

The Tiger boxer 250 chassis has a similar undemanding character. A light feel and ample leverage from the handlebars gives easy, prompt direction changes – picking off traffic and slipping through congestion is a breeze, especially from the elevated upright riding position.

copy from : http://www.motorcycle.in.th

Harley-Davidson XR 1200

Harley-Davidson will be launching new product XR 1200 Sportster for Euro market 2008 this year. XR 1200 Sportster which became inspiration from Harley-Davidson XR 750, in planning handling so good for on the road.

XR 1200 Sportster this was results of collaboration between Harley-Davidson Milwaukee product development and the team product planning they in Europe. Results were the design of the firm motor but stayed ergonomic with the performance of the strong machine.

The wheel in front of this motor used the rim berjari three with the diameter 18 inch now for the wheel behind used the diameter 17 inch. The two wheels together used disc brakes. When the wheel behind used single the piston, the front wheel used dual the piston. Reportedly, XR 1200 Sportster this was sold by Harley-Davidson with the price 7.755 sterling pound or around Rp.132.000.000. Interested? You could look first around tampilan him in his photograph gallery.

KAWASAKI KSR

Kawasaki KSR Mini Supersport Bike

Kawasaki KSR : Touch the amusement of KSR the power is bold with 110 cc 4 stoke motors s give you has driven on hardship way dextrous or on way smooth road has swiftly , the figure passes to pass close by , nimbly modern the source and the Technology in now divisibly...

Engine : 4 stoke SOHC with the air cooling
Cylinder capacity : 111 cc
The ratio is compressing : 9.5:1
Cylinder x distance draws : 53.0 x 50.6 mm.
Dot system bursts : DC-CDI
Start system : Easy KICK
Capacity fuel : 7.3 liter
W x Lx H : 1,670 x 705 x 995 mm
Height : 225 mm
Space of wheel : 130 mm
Junction front/back wheels : 1,165 mm
Weight : 82 kg
Front suspension : UPSIDE-DOWN
Rear suspension : Swing arm
Brake : Disk Brake
Front wheels : 100 / 90-12 (49J / TUBELESS)
Back wheels : 90 / 90 - 14
Battery : 12V 3.5 AH

2009 Aprilia RSV4

Does Aprilia have the sleeper sensation of 2009?

From the specs sheet it would appear that way. Gone is the tall and lazy Mille, and in its place is the V4 powered RSV4. It'll be strange to hear the new engine tone from an Aprilia.Big news is that Aprilia is taking this bike racing in the 2009 WSB Championship, but even better is that the bike will be available to the public.

The 65-degree, 999cc, V-four motor offers a claimed 180 hp at the crank and uses ride-by-wire technology. The wheelbase is relatively short and the V-four layout allows the bike to also remain quite narrow-both ideal for going uber quick on the track.

As we'd expect from a focused racer, the components are of the highest spec: Ohlins forks, shock and steering damper, Brembo monobloc brake calipers and marchesini aluminum wheels.

For more info and a cool video on this amazing ride head to www.aprilia.com.

Yamaha YZF-R1 - Project R1 Part 2: Engine and Fueling

This month we get the engine dialed in, but not before a single silly spacer slows our project build to a grinding halt. Literally.

Photography by John Zamora

With the rolling chassis mods sorted, we moved on to the motor, but talk about jumping the gun....

Something wasn't quite right with the rear end. All of the parts bolted on and it seemed in order, but after a couple laps around the parking lot we found the rear rotor was dragging inside the caliper bracket. D'oh.

The solution was obvious enough-find a spacer to fit between the wheel spacer and the caliper bracket. As luck would have it, there was just the right piece in the loose bolts bin and it only took about an hour buzzing it with a Dremel to get it fitting properly. Are we upset that the wheel didn't fit properly? Of course. Is it the end of the world? No, and it proves a valid point when embarking on a custom build. Sometimes parts don't fit exactly as they should. Your options are to either send it back and find something that does fit (recommended when time permits) or take matters into your own hands and find a way to make it work. We opted for the latter and got lucky ... this time.

About a half of a millimeter is all it took to stop the entire project. It was nothing a makeshift spacer couldn't sort through.

Now that the rear wheel was spinning properly it was time to get the crunchy old pipe off and love up the engine a bit. Leo Vince's exquisite exhaust bolted on perfectly and looks amazing. With the removable baffle lying on the floor, the thing sounds utterly amazing and we can't wait to hear this baby at full tilt.

WHEEL SPACER
Leo Vince says that its exhausts don't require a fuel management system for better results over stock, but we went ahead and hooked up a Power Commander anyways because with a little tuning time on the dyno we're sure to squeak out some extra power. Additionally, we wanted to install a Dynojet quickshifter and it requires a Power Commander to function.

While we were hooking up the quickshifter, it seemed silly to bolt it into the worn-out old stock gear linkage, so we looked to Sato Racing for a pair of its beautiful rearsets. They come pre-assembled and bolted on in a jiffy, but we utilized their full adjustability and tucked the pegs one notch higher just for better ground clearance.

CONTACTS:
DYNOJET
www.dynojet.com
SATO RACING
www.satoracing.com
LEO VINCE
www.leovinceusa.com

Honda XL700V Transalp

Honda has launched the 2008 Honda XL700V Transalp at the 2007 Paris Motorcycle Show in a new motorcycle line-up which also includes the 2008 Honda CBR1000RR FireBlade and the 2008 Honda CBF600 and CBF600S.



The 2008Honda Transalp marks the first update for several years for the perennial Honda which has always had a reasonable following on the continent. The styling has been brought up to date with new bodywork, a smaller frontal area, and a bikini windscreen.

The Honda is also narrower overall, and rather than trying to shield the rider from any windblast, the motorcycle now tries to use it to enhance comort and take weight off the motorcyclist. The 2008 Honda Transalp has a smaller tank size than previous models, but the actual range is extended due to improved fuel economy.

Honda Interceptor VFR800FI

For sport touring with an emphasis on Sport, the Interceptor continues to stand far above all others thanks to its exemplary handling, high-performance VTEC engine and long-range amenities.

Universally considered one of Honda's most illustrious race-bred sportbikes, the Interceptor® is also arguably one of the best all-around streetbikes ever made. Featuring a fuel-injected, VTEC-equipped V-4, aluminum chassis, comfortable, all-day ergos and an all-new color scheme for 2008, this is a machine, though born of the track, whose razor-sharp performance is equally at home on any paved surface.

Reviewer after reviewer has praised the Honda VFR800A Interceptor as the best all-round performer on the road. And no wonder. Its 781cc V-four is one of the most sophisticated motorcycle engines in the world, featuring Honda's VTEC variable valve-timing system that allows it to perform like two engines in one. Fuel injection delivers the precise amount of fuel for optimum performance, and you can't help but notice the Pro Arm single-sided swingarm, underseat mufflers, twin-spar aluminum frame, and a seating position that's all-day comfortable. Hop on a VFR800A Interceptor, and find out for yourself what everyone's been talking about.

YAMAHA FINO GIRLY STYLE

Yamaha Fino Pink Modifies

Yamaha Fino Pink

Honda CBR1000RR

2008 Honda CBR1000RR

2008 Honda CBR1000RR

2008 Honda CBR1000RR

The new flagship Honda CBR1000RR definitely looks like it will get you everywhere fast! This long awaited superbike features an all-new 999cc engine and prior to its unveiling; there has been much speculation as to what the new CBR1000RR was going to be like.

At the heart of the CBR100RR is an all-new 999cc engine. Honda has reverted to a more oversquare bore/stroke combo with the new engine now utilizing 76mm x 55.1mm bore/stroke versus previous model’s 75mm x 56.5mm arrangement. It sports eight new lightweight 30.5mm titanium intake valves and a slightly higher 12.3:1 compression. A slightly bigger bore and a shorter stroke motor have the potential to be a scorcher.

A new dual stage fuel injection system (DSFI) incorporates 46mm throttle bodies featuring a pair of 12-hole Denso injectors per cylinder. Powering the new FI system is a smaller ECU that provides two separate fuel injection and ignition maps for each of the four cylinders. Dispersing the engine’s power is a new MotoGP styled mid-muffler exhaust system that is tucked low which help keep mass centralized down low.






The CBR1000RR features a cable actuated slipper clutch which will bridge the gap between the engine and the close-ratio six-speed transmission. Clutch lever pull is light and smooth which is definitely going to be a big plus around town.

The new Honda CBR1000RR also has an all-new twin-spar aluminum frame that utilizes hollow fine die-cast manufacturing process. With wall thickness measuring a scant 2.5mm, Honda engineers have designed frame members to attain specific rigidities in particular pieces. As a result, the '08 frame has been reduced to just four castings compared to the '07 frame which utilized 11 welded sections and this equates to a stronger and lighter frame.



The frame wasn't the only spot where Honda engineers aimed to reduce weight. The new machine sports lighter aluminum-alloy hollow-spoke wheels and a lighter, more compact battery. Even the front brake hoses and kickstand have been slimmed down. Braking components received a bit of an upgrade in the form of a new monoblock-style radial mount four-piston front brake calipers and highly-perforated dual 320mm floating discs. The 43mm HMAS inverted fork makes a return as well as the Unit Pro-Link rear suspension. This year the swingarm looks quite different as it accommodates the new Moto-GP-inspired exhaust.

For those who need more performance from the CBR1000RR, a full line of genuine HRC components including cams, transmission kit, wiring harness, exhaust system, throttle kit, suspension, air intake kit, and oversized radiator will all be available for purchase in spring 2008.

SKYDRIVE MODIFICATION

Suzuki SkyDrive Sports Modifies

Suzuki SkyDrive Modifies

Ducati Monster 696

Lighter, sleeker and optimised for sporty riding - the 2008 Ducati Monster 696

Ducati released the first official pics of the 2008 Monster 696 in November last year. The all-new Monster wasn’t as radical as we’d been hoping for, but we still liked the bike anyway. The motorcycle press worldwide was recently given a chance to ride the 696, and more details on the bike are now available.

Designed for the city and for twisty mountain roads, the Monster 696 features improved ergonomics, a low seat height (770mm), and fully digital instrumentation, which among other things, also has a built-in lap-timer and is compatible with Ducati’s DDA (Ducati Data Analyser) system.

The Monster 696’s air-cooled L-twin engine only makes a modest 80bhp and 69Nm of torque, but given that the bike only weighs 152 kilos dry, performance should be at least reasonably sprightly. Ducati also say the Monster 696’s steel-tube trellis frame is stiffer than ever before, and along with the new aluminium swingarm, the whole package has been optimized for high-speed stability.

Looks all right we suppose, though we do wish Ducati had been a bit braver with the 696's styling...

The suspension comprises of a 43mm Showa USD front fork, and a preload-adjustable Sachs monoshock. The bike rides on 17-inch wheels, shod with 120/60 (front) and 160/60 (rear) ZR-rated rubber. Other bits include Ducati’s APTC slipper clutch, six-speed gearbox, twin 320mm brake discs (Brembo) with radial-mount four-piston calipers at the front, and 245mm rear brake disc.

MCN’s Adam Child, who recently rode the 696 in Barcelona, says, ‘On first impressions it kind of feels like the old Monster – there is a lot of character and feel of the old machine – like the position of the tank and the trellis frame. But the new bike is way, way better. The Monster now handles a lot better than the old one. The old Monster had a tendency to understeer, but the 696 handles beautifully with really sharp steering.’

‘Brembo brakes and no weight amount to great stopping power, and it comes with a slipper clutch as standard, so there is no worry for new riders about the engine braking from the v-twin. But the thing that really impressed about the monster is just how good the gearbox and fuelling is,’ says Child.

For those who want a bit more style and exclusivity, Ducati have also released the Monster 696+ which is a specially customized variant of the regular Monster. The 696+ is fitted with a small front fairing and a removable rear seat cowl. But that’s not all – a very wide range of accessories is being made available for the 696. The list of optional fancy bits includes titanium silencers (supplied with a new ECU and air-filter), carbon racing exhaust system, a special touring seat made of high-density foam, LED turn indicators, shorter tail guard, and many carbonfibre bits and pieces.

New Honda Air Blade i

The latest Honda motorcycle in the Thai domestic line up to get the PGM-FI (fuel Injection) upgrade is the Honda Air Blade. At first glance, the new and stylish Honda Air Blade i looks to be no much different than his none fuel injection brother in the range. This doesn't change when you site on the bike as the lightweight and compact dimensions give little indication of the true engine capability.

But twist the throttle, and rocket off you go, pin the throttle back and it soon becomes apparent which machine you actually on. The Honda Air Blade PGM-FI really does lift its skirt and get a move on.

The 108cc liquid-cooled SOHC single-cylinder four-stroke engine, equipped with the latest on fuel injection and electronic ingestion and fuel control systems making the ride both fun and very rapid. The engine is both torquey and revvy, making the most of any available acceleration.

With its well designed and proven frame design, well-controlled suspension and perfect balanced rubber, the chassis is tight and accurate through bends. With Honda's Combi-brake technology, the stopping department not only matches this fine handling, it surpasses it.

On the fuel consumption, the Honda Air Blade i with PGM-FI uses about 15% LESS fuel then it the Honda Air Blade equipped with regular carburetor. The Honda Air blade i with PGM-FI is not only better in fuel economics, the performance is so much better, and during this all producing 80% less dangerous exhaust emissions. Honda claims that you would save per year, being a average rider, more then 1,500 Baht per year. Also Honda claims that the new improved Air Blade i engine need less service per year.

The new for 2009 Honda Air Blade i with PGM-FI (fuel injection) system comes in the color combinations; model NC110AM has "White-Red Deluxe" and "Black-Silver", and model NC110AP has the colors "Precious Golden Brown" and "Rubilize Red". The main difference between the Honda Air Blade NC110AM and NC110AP is that the NC110AM has spoke wired wheels and the NC110AP has light weight aluminum alloy wheels.

New Honda Air Blade i

YAMAHA R1 MODIFICATION

List of Modifications:

Graves Ti Exhaust w/ CF slip-ons
Graves Rear Sets
Graves Frame Sliders
Galfer Wavy Rotors F/R
Galfer Steel Braided Break Lines
CRG Roll-A-Click levers
Ohlin’s Rear Suspension
Ohlin’s Steering Dampener
GYTR Solo Seat
DynoJet PCIII / Tuned by L7 Motorsports
BMC Race Filter
A&R HID Light Kit
Custom LED Tail Light
Hot Bodies Flush Mount Turn Signals
EK Double Gold Chain
Driven rear Sprocket +3
PUIG Windscreen
Carbon Fiber Works Rear Hugger
Custom one-off fender eliminator kit.

Current HP: 179

the VESPA MODEL

Vespa 98 / 1946-1947

Year of product :1946/1947 VIN :V98
number :01/18079
Production :18079 the unit

With the machine capacity 98 cc maximal the speed only 75 km/the hour, consumption of the fuel 3: 100 or 3 litre for 100 km, frugal would? Vespa 98 this in the production in 1946.

Vespa 125 - 1948

year :1948/1950 VIN :V1T - V15T
the number: 01/104096
the Production: 104096 units

Vespa 125 this was made be based on his predecessor V98, that was seen different was the machine capacity that was bigger that is 125 cc and shock front was on the right. The form body, stang and head lamp still was similar with V98. Saw the community's enthusiasm that was big in Vespa, V125 was produced through to 104096 units for the period 1948 till 1950.


Vespa 125 Hoffmann - 1950

Vespa Hoffmann was produced between knew 1950 - 1954 in Germany. This all was preceeded during in knew 1949, Piaggio agreed gave the licence to Hoffmann to produce and trade in. Vespa 125 Hoffmann not only in trade in in Germany, but also in England and France. D England in knew by the name of Vespa Douglass because perjualan him under the Douglass licence and in France under the PACMA licence.

Naked muscle: The Kawabusa II

Norm Wilding probably did not like the Suzuki B-King very much, so he decided to build his own Hayabusa-powered naked musclebike. And he seems to have done well...!

Pics: MidMoMc, via Motoblog

This very hot looking Kawabusa II special is the work of one Norm Wilding, at MidMoMc. The starting point for the bike was a 2003 Kawasaki ZRX1200R, which is where the chassis comes from. Everything else – including the engine, wheels, brakes, suspension and swingarm – are off a 2005 Suzuki Hayabusa.

This is, in fact, Wilding’s second Kawabusa, with significant improvements having been made to the original. Apart from various mechanical modifications, the bike benefits from various bolt-ons: carbonfibre front fender and rear hugger, gauges/instruments from a Suzuki GSX1400, headlight from a Suzuki Bandit, Renthal handlebars, BF Goodrich braided stainless steel brake lines, oil cooler and tail unit from a GSX-R1000, Yoshimura exhaust system and a Power Commander.

‘I built this bike because I love the power of the Hayabusa, and the upright riding position of the ZRX. The Kawabusa II sure is a blast to ride,’ says Wilding. But of course…

Funny Front: Tier Motorsports’ Yamaha R1 concept

Fork off: Tier Motorsports' Yamaha R1 concept, with a single-sided front swingarm
Pics: The Biker Gene

Over the last few decades, some manufacturers and independent specialists have tried to break away from the ubiquitous telescopic front fork, and tried various kinds of alternative front suspension on motorcycles. However, BMW seem to be the only bike manufacturers who’ve ever had any significant commercial success with bikes that had alternative front ends, while the Britten V1000 is probably the only successful racebike that did not use the conventional fork.

In theory, some alternative front ends – the front swingarm for example – can separately deal with the forces generated by braking, steering and cornering a motorcycle, and thus offer significantly better handling. In practice, however, very few of these systems seem to have worked.

In any case, there is no dearth of people who keep trying to find a suspension solution that’s better than the good old telescopic fork, and that’s where Tier Motorsports come in. This company has designed a concept motorcycle, based on the Yamaha R1, that’s fitted with a single-side swingarm and a monoshock in place of the regular USD fork.

Among a dozen other things, the Tier Motorsports’ front end uses a completely vertical steering axis, instead of the tilted steering axis that telescopic forks have to use because of their rake. Claimed advantages are adjustable dive under braking, more consistent steering, increased high speed stability, better ride comfort, full-range adjustability and an increase in braking performance.

The claimed advantages all sound good, but we wonder if this single-sided front swingarm will ever make to production reality. Given how good USD forks on modern sportsbikes have become, the possibility for alternative front suspension being accepted on mainstream bikes looks bleak. That is, unless this kind of suspension is backed up by some other pathbreaking technology, like two-wheel-drive perhaps. A 2WD Yamaha R1 with single-sided front and rear swingarms? Hmmm… now that would be interesting!