Suzuki GSR 600 test     GSR 600 video     K6 GSX-R 1000 video

NEXT: Yamaha VMR & VMN V4 superbike dream, will Bimota's next superbike be a SB9 or KB6?, the best pictures from this weekends WSB round in Valencia, 2007 Busa, Ducati GT 1000 test, Kawasaki Z750 VS Z750S test, Kawasaki Z1000 test with Z750 cameo, Honda FMX 650 test, 2006 Benelli's, Derbi Mulhacen 659 world launch, Bimota Delirio world launch and Moto Guzzi Norge 1200 world launch.

When attending the latest 2006 launches in Mandello Del Lario we got strong indications that the next Moto Guzzi project will be a full on sportsbike. Moto Guzzi management has also suggested this in public. All we know now is that the bike will get a more aerodynamic shape and a more extensive fairing than the old V11. We have looked at the imminent Norge 1200 sports tourer for clues as to how the fairing might look like. We are now launching two designs based on two different directions. The silver bike is based on the Daytona winning MGS-01 Corsa with a street legal version of the 135bhp racer. The gorgeous red design is based on a tuned Griso 1100 with fairing, new suspension and radial brakes from Brembo. Speculations that Moto Guzzi might go World Superbike racing is just rubbish as a brand new liquid cooled engine would have to be designed for that. Think more in the lines of BMW R1200S sportsbike rather than Ducati 999. It is good to see that Moto Guzzi is thinking in the lines of a new sportsbike as they literally invented the modern motorcycle. Go Guzzi! Words: Tor Sagen/Picture work: Hugo van Waaijen & Luc1

Moto Guzzi     Griso 850 video     California Vintage video     Guzzi tests     Guzzi in the blog

Check out the latest photo galleries of Kawasaki Z750, Z750S and Z1000 and video's here. Soon a test of Ducati GT 1000 too.

NEXT: Suzuki GSR 1200, Yamaha VMR & VMN V4 superbike dream, Kawasaki Z750 VS 750S, Z1000 tests and Bimota SB9 or KB6?

MV Agusta has gone and made the gorgeous looking F4 superbike even better. For once we are not just treated to a new special paint, but some genuine upgrades. The new 13:1 compression ratio and many other detailed changes in the engine has brought the F4 1000 from the 166bhp in the S version to the 174bhp in the new R version. Of other upgrades is new radial brakes from Brembo and a change in the steering geometry to make it more stable at speed. At very high speeds that is since MV Agusta does not restrict 6th gear at all. There is a claimed top speed of 187mph which should be enough. The new R will be available in a 1+1 version as well, which in plain English means that it has got a pillion seat. The 1+1 weighs 1 kilo more than the plain R (192kg), but both weigh quite a lot more than GSX-R1000 for instance. TS

Video MV Agusta F4 1000     Video MV Agusta Brutale 910

NEXT: New Moto Guzzi sportsbike, Suzuki GSR 1200, Yamaha VMR 1000 V4 superbike, Kawasaki Z750 VS Z750S test and Bimota SB9 or KB6?

Ok it's Easter and you have either been riding all through the winter or you're planning to take your bike out of hibernation these days. Chance is that quite a few of you own this very Suzuki and if you've forgotten how it sounds like here it is. Happy Easter! TS

Video     Raptorama     NEXT: MV Agusta F4 1000 R

The designer talked exclusively to Raptors & Rocket about his next assignment that also confirms that Aprilia will re-enter the World Superbike championship with a brand new V4 superbike in 2008. Sergio Robbiano started as an apprentice to Massimo Tamburini and helped with the design work on Cagiva Mito that is a carbon copy of the legendary Ducati 916. Many years later he is the man behind Bimota's latest design masterpieces DB5 and DB6 Delirio (pictured right) featuring Ducati engines. Aprilia is a company on the move these days and will launch many new models the next two years. Piaggio has injected all the fresh cash Aprilia needs for the development work. First revolutionary new models were the RXV/SXV with the in-house V-twin that has rocked the Supermotard world in particular. Aprilia will also build its new V4 in-house which means Rotax engines are slowly phased out at least from brand new models. The very clever man that decided to hire Robbiano must be hailed by all fans of both Aprilia and Italian motorcycle design. We can't wait to see it either at the EICMA 2006 or 2007 in Milan. Aprilia means business. Robbiano quoted: "Everything will be old after the Aprilia SBK!" Our designers impression (not Robbiano's) gives a clue as to which direction the V4 design might go. RS1000 V4 pic by Hugo Van Waaijen/Bimota & Robbiano pictures by Tor Sagen/Bimota. Words: Tor Sagen

We will test the new Bimota Delirio DB6 1000 in Italy in May and tests of Aprilia RXV/SXV are here.

Aprilia offroad   Aprilia Tuono & RSV     EICMA 2005    Video Aprilia

It was hard work to get these images and a bit of a disappointment seeing them as they are not official pictures. Only spy-shots from the KTM factory. We heard about embargos and everything and thought these images was of a production ready bike. They are not. Check out the details for yourself and scroll down for the video of the bike being tested at Pannonia ring in Hungary. KTM promises the bike will be very powerful and we believe them. TS

NEXT: Sergio Robbiano has been hired by a major Italian manufacturer to design their groundbreaking new superbike. Soon we will tell you which bike... It will be a stunner...

Valentino Rossi took his first victory of the season on the Camel Yamaha M1. Check out Rossi's comments here.

Next: MotoGP Istanbul, Italia news 2 with not a few scoops, which bike does this chassis (right) belong to?, Honda FMX 650 test, Suzuki GSR 600 test and K6 GSX-R1000 test. See the first FMX 650 video here. Moto Guzzi Griso 850, 1100, Breva 850, 1100 and 1100 ABS, California Vintage and Touring tested. Moto Guzzi link. New videos of all the bikes coming. Chassis Pic: Luc1/Guzzi pics: Milagro/Suzuki & Honda pics: Claire McHugh & Tor Sagen

See the links to the video that shows the RC8 being tested in Hungary below. KTM are confident that the WSB rules will change and the RC8 1150 will be launched as a 2008 model for the roads and probably ready for WSB racing as well. The engine that is being tested in Hungary is not the final version as KTM is developing a brand new 1150cc supertwin. This is exciting stuff and we just can't wait to see it and try it. 14/04 is the date where we will show you the very first official pictures of the final design of the bike. TS

Video KTM RC8 1150 

BMW has big plans for its new 800cc F-series in 2006 and 2007. F800S and ST has just been launched in South Africa, but not enough with only a S and ST version. Next year we will see yet another two models with the 800cc parallel twin engine in a naked R and offroad GS version. We are 90% certain about the F800R both when concerning model name and concept. Whether the 800cc offroader will actually be called F800GS is still up for speculation. Expect more than 90bhp in the F800R and a detuned F800GS. Whilst at it rumours about yet another Aprilia co-operation has also emerged. What about a RXV 450 engine in a BMW HP chassis? Our designers impressions illustrate how cool a F800R could be. Pic: Hugo van Waaijen

EXTRA: we have video of KTM RC8 being tested in Hungary. More later... TS

As the very first English writer and Scandinavian journalist I attended the world launch of the R1200S and F800S/ST in South Africa last week. Later in the afternoon Alan Cathcart and the Aussies arrived as well, but I was still first. You might have seen piccies and a few words about the launch by now, but nowhere else will you get the full monty first, including excerpts of the two articles, first video's and blog entries written on location. TS

MOTO GUZZI Griso 850

The next scoop is the same treatment to the new Moto Guzzi Griso 850, Breva 850, California Vintage and Breva 1100 ABS! So please do excuse me for holding the news back a bit, but these tests has got first priority at the moment. Enjoy the coverage! Video's and links below. TS Moto Guzzi link

Next in news: BMW F800R, F800GS and F450GS pictures. Ducati Hypermotard now official, it will be built.

Upd.: 02/04/2006. It has been a big week for launches and new metal here at Raptors & Rockets. Stay tuned for first pictures, video's and first impressions of the mentioned bikes soon. TS

Blog             Raptorama               Video Moto Guzzi Griso 850  

Video BMW R1200S     Video BMW F800S     Video BMW F800ST   

Video K6 Suzuki GSX-R 1000     Video Suzuki GSR 600

Yamaha has been doing loads of research ahead of a launch of a completely new V-max. The firm states that it has never before launched a concept bike so early and never before asked what you think in such a scale either. The engine is unbelievably beautiful and the whole concept oozes of masculine testosterone turbo mach 3 muscle appeal. Whilst the last decade has been dedicated to the softly-softly slightly pathetic man, Yamaha thinks men will finally be men again. If that's the case for you too you better go and fill in that questionnaire and make sure you tick that box next to 200PS! We have been generous and added seat, headlight, blinkers and mirrors for you. The question is: How easily will the standard V-max destroy Harley Destroyer? I want a V-max! TS

How many CC's do you think the final V-max will get?                                                                               V-max modifications by Luc1 More about the new V4 coming...

To keep Ducati's WSB winning tradition a 1200cc engine has been under development for several months now. One of the Ducati satellite teams is reported to have tested a prototype of a new big-bore V-twin late last year under the fairing of a innocent looking 999 race bike. The proposition of owning a 999R is not as tempting anymore as all the four Japanese make big road 1000's that produce massive horsepower in comparison. Ducati keeps their WSB race 999's competitive by employing MotoGP level tuning. This is very expensive and particularly as the 999's don't sell. The next Ducati superbike has to be a stunner with at least the same amount of horsepower as the in-line fours. To achieve that Ducati will most likely launch a 1199 (as our designer has added), 1116 or 1188cc R version to replace 999R. Then the engine would be used in a S and a standard version. As Ducati use their engines in several platforms we can then expect the range topping Monster model to receive a 1200cc engine too. That would be fun! TS/1199 image by Hugo van Waaijen Got Ducati news?

This weekend is the big weekend for MotoGP fans. The circus is back in town and the season kicks off in Spain at Jerez. We have added profiles of: Kawasaki ZX-RR, Ducati Desmosedici and Suzuki GSV-R under the roadracing link. Yamaha M1 and Honda RCV profiles coming. TS

Just back from Milan and Aprilia's press conference where all Aprilia 2006 race teams were presented to the press. Just look at the talent Aprilia has nurtured or worked with previously. Rossi, Melandri, Capirossi and many, many more world champions. Pictured are the world champions of tomorrow. More about the Junior cup, 125 and 250 GP teams, Supermoto (Brit rider Chris Iddon signed as factory rider), Enduro and the worlds first factory supported female motorcycle racer. Stories will be spread out under the News, Roadracing, MX & SM and UK news links during the week. Also see the Aprilia Offroad link and RXV/SXV tests here.

Other news coming: Ducati 1199, Yamaha V4, Moto Guzzi is very active these days and we know why, BMW are waging war on Japan and much more...

Check out our brand new pictures of Suzuki's new middle weight champion and the video's. Suzuki launched the GSR 600 this year to take on Yamaha FZ6, Honda Hornet and Kawasaki Z750. It's a high-end midrange motorcycle with quite some oomph. The engine comes directly from the K5 GSX-R 600, but has been tuned for some more hooliganism. Full test coming... TS

Suzuki GSR 600 video 1  Suzuki GSR 600 video 2  Suzuki GSR 600 in the blog  Suzuki GSR 600 photo gallery

MT-02 is believed to be Yamaha’s final addition to the MT range. Yamaha will most likely use either the Drag Star 1100 or TDM 900 for the engine and chassis donations. Since there already is one MT V-twin our bets and hopes are for the TDM based version as pictured. The 900cc parallel twin from TDM features less power and torque than MT-01, but also less weight and bulk. MT-02 should be the sportiest of the MT range and would place itself nicely in between the 01 and 03.

Yamaha launched the very stylish MT-01 in 2005. It featured the 1.700cc V-twin from the Wild Star muscle cruiser the same year as the 1.900cc Midnight Star was launched. The design was industrial, much in the lines of how the US Southern bike firm Confederate builds their much more exclusive sports roadsters. They have more in common than design clues, both Confederate and the range topping MT features a tuned V-twin originally built to power cruisers. MT-01 peaks at 90bhp, but its massive 150Nm @ 3.750rpm is what takes the riding experience one step further compared to other naked roadsters. Then at the Paris international motorcycle show in September 2005 the single cylinder MT-03 was launched. A concept version of MT-01 with the model name MT-OS was also shown for the first time in Paris. At EICMA 2005 in Milan a few months after the Paris show Yamaha Italy showed two concepts based on MT-03 called Café Motard and Spider Smart City. With the MT-02 it is believed Yamaha will have completed the MT range with three basis models where the future additions could be bikes based on the concepts shown in 2005. Yamaha has basically created a new range perfect for customisation. Look at Harley-Davidson and the accessory range and you’ll see why they are the wealthiest most profitable motorcycle manufacturer in the world. Even though the initial sales of MT’s have been slow (MT-01 is not a cheap motorcycle) I have a firm belief in the range for the future years. See more links, video etc below.

By: TS/Pics: Hugo van Waaijen/Yamaha/McHugh  

If you are interested in  MT-03 there is some new reading available now under the Raptorama link. A brand new MT-03 video with a MT-01 cameo has now been published. Later this year Yamaha might be ready to delight us with a MT-02 as well. TS

Yamaha MT-03 video 1      Yamaha MT-03 video 2        Yamaha MT-01 video

US readers: Do you want the MT range at US dealers?  Learn more about MT

Has Harald Eckl employed Bruce Banner to make the ZX-RR outperform both Yamaha's M1 and Honda RCV at the recent MotoGP IRTA test in Jerez? Looking at the lap times it could just be. Or it could be that Bridgestone has got something special for Jerez. Check out the bike and the comments from Shinya Nakano, Loris Capirossi and Sete Gibernau here.

If you are interested in the new Yamaha R6  there is some new reading available now under the Raptorama link.

Yamaha R6 video 1     Yamaha R6 video 2    Raptorama    R6 in the blog   Send your comments on the 2006 R6 here     

I bet you didn't expect the first public images of the F800S to be quite like this. Chris Pfeiffer, the 2003 stunt world champ, was let loose on the new F800S in Munich recently. Pfeiffer commented that the gas response was very direct, balanced and smooth compared to the last bike he rode with chain. F800S has got belt final drive. The parallel twin is BMW's latest new engine developed with Rotax. We love parallel twins and can't wait to ride it at the end of March. Chris Pfeiffer Raptorama

It is expected that Honda will launch an updated version of the road biased adventure bike Varadero this autumn. To get closer to the all conquering BMW R1200GS it is believed the new Varadero will get a more sporty edge with a stronger engine. Expect the engine to increase performance from today’s 93bhp to closer to the 100bhp mark. The Varadero is thought to still feature a slightly detuned VTR 1000F engine that easily conforms to Euro 3. Rather than just being a big heavy tourer with offroad design we believe Honda has lightened the chassis, used new wheels more adaptable to varying tarmac and better suspension with more wheel travel. Whilst at it we believe Honda has redesigned the whole bike for a more sleek less massive appearance to make it more agile off the beaten track. It is up for speculation whether Honda will actually follow BMW and KTM in offering one standard, ABSd road biased model and one more sporty version more suited to gravel and obstacles in the road. I any case it was high time Honda did something to the ageing Varadero. Do you want a new Varadero? TS/Image by Luc1

Moto Guzzi is rumoured to have made the Griso transformation also on the Breva 750. Whilst the Griso 1100 is based on the Breva 1100, our sources tell us the new Griso will get a big-bore version of the Breva 750 engine. Moto Guzzi was not willing to comment at this point. very soon we will know more and also ride the bikes... Bikes pictured are of the Griso 1100 and Breva 750. TS

This Sunday saw the two Troy's battle it out on the legendary Philip Island circuit near Melbourne in Australia. The two Australians are both favourites to win many races this year. After Superpole, Xerox Ducati rider Troy Bayliss was first on the grid whilst Mr. Superpole himself, Suzuki Corona Extra rider Troy Corser started second on the grid. The front row of the grid is complemented by another WSB champion, James Toseland on his Winston ten Kate Honda. Check out the results and more pictures here. TS

Bikes in the shadow

There are many new bikes that we have not given much attention yet-either because there is a very small market for them or because they are scooters. Here’s a few hidden jewels (or lemons? You decide)

From Spain Derbi GP1 250 is an addition to the GP1 range and features reinforced chassis and longer wheelbase than the 50cc. It features a new one cylinder four stroke engine of 244cc and room for a full face helmet under the seat. The wheels are 120/70-14 front and 140/60-17 rear. A fancy radial calliper is mounted to the front wheel and the fork is a 40mm USD. GP1 250 is available in black, blue and silver. GP1 also comes as a new 125cc version.

Mulhacen 659 is now undergoing final preparations before the press launch in May. It is Derbi’s first big motorcycle and features the proven 1 cylinder engine from Yamaha XT and MT-03. It goes into the Scrambler category. Raptors & Rockets will ride it at the launch in Spain.

Highland was the very first manufacturer to put a big 1000cc V-twin into a Supermoto chassis. The Swedish firm is now expanding and parts and engines will be manufactured in China. Highland’s main problem is that the V2 Outback, Rally and Motard appear to need much more development to reach KTM 950 SM and Ducati Hypermotard standards. But they was first to offer a king motard on the market. Look out for the new 750 Dirt Track, 450cc Enduro and SM too. Highland Motard features a 936cc V-twin engine of 85bhp and 104Nm. The claimed dry weight is 166kg.

From South Korea Hyosung launched the Aquila cruiser with a 70bhp V-twin engine last year. It was said it took styling cues from Harley-Davidson V-rod. Harley has survived Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki and Yamaha so Hyosung is hardly a threat, yet… Hyosung will also launch the RX125 SM soon.

From France Voxan has created a very high spec Scrambler, possibly with the highest spec of all Scrambler’s entering the market this year. Voxan’s Scrambler features a 72 degree V-twin of 996cc. The engine produces 85bhp and a massive 109Nm @ 6.500 rpm. Voxan also produces a street Scrambler and there are all sorts of accessories available such as a top box.

Finally from Japan a revisit to the concept bike Yamaha showed in Milan 2005. Café Motard is a high spec MT-03 basically with more Scrambler hints. Read more about the MT-03 in the blog and see the photo gallery under Raptorama. TS

Yamaha MT-03 video

I know it, and you know it, Suzuki will upgrade its speed monster Hayabusa for the 2007 model year. Euro 3 dictates everything the manufacturers do these days and Kawasaki has launched its most serious attack to the top speed crown since the very first ZZR in the ZZR1400. The ZZR1400 is a big leap forward much in the same way as the 1999 Hayabusa was. When it comes to horsepower Suzuki has never rested long when a manufacturer has passed them. Obviously the 2007 'Busa has been under development for several years already. Still, we believe Suzuki has kept its super aerodynamic fairing. Changes on our artists impression are: Radial brakes with ABS, 1400cc engine, conservative estimate of 195bhp with additional ponies at high ram-air friendly speeds, majestic torque from increased bore/stroke, new stronger swing-arm, new exhaust system that conforms to Euro 3 with a catalytic converter under the bike GSX-R style, slightly sharper styling on the rear end and brand new light weight wheels. We are pushing for official comments these days and we will see what Suzuki is willing to share early on. By TS/Picture by: Hugo van Waaijen. Send your Suzuki Hayabusa or Honda Blackbird news to us.

This one is back on top as we are interested in getting more info on these bikes. If you live in Japan, Germany or Spain you might have seen something very fast being tested. We are also keeping an eye out for further Kawasaki ZZR1400 developments, BMW HP4 and even high speed Yamaha concepts. Use the E-mail above. If info can be backed up with images and sources it will be rewarded. Next: Another Guzzi Mandello will not comment on (good sign for accuracy of info) and progress report on Benelli Tre1130K. TS

BMW has decided that the HP2 Enduro works just as well as a Supermoto. With all that horsepower it makes for a very exciting road bike. BMW is offering the street tyres and larger front brake disc as an option when you buy the Enduro version and you can not just buy the Supermoto yet. BMW is offering 120/70-zr17 Continental Road Attack front and 150/70-zr17 rear. BMW also offers the Bridgestone BT 020, Metzeler Roadtec Z6, Pirelli Diablo Strada or Pirelli Scorpion Sync if you don't fancy those Continental tyres. Price 16.900€

Video HP2 low quality for Broadband     Video HP2 ultra low quality for slow connections

HP2 image gallery     HP2 in the blog

Despite it being winter we have managed to do the mileage on Yamaha's new R6. It's been very cold, but here's the video's and photo gallery. TS

Yamaha R6 video 1          Yamaha R6 video 2 Raptorama       R6 in the blog       Send your comments on the 2006 R6 here

Honda FMX 1000-Japanese twin motard?

Honda is restructuring its whole model range these days and we will see more and more different models with similar engines-much in the lines of how the European manufacturers operate today. For the 2006 season Honda launched six new motorcycles where only the Deauville had any real differences to its engine in a larger capacity. Honda CBR1000RR had some big tweaks and refinements to its already powerful engine. CBF 1000 got virtually the same engine, but with more torque and less horsepower. We believe Honda has been and still is hesitant to launch yet another new engine configuration, such as a V5 XX. This is to rationalise the huge model range and make it even more profitable. Honda can easily do so and a large capacity FMX could be one of the bikes in the pipeline. Honda launched the FMX 650 in 2004 following the growing Supermoto trend both in Europe and in the US. Now that both KTM and Ducati will have a “king-motard” in its range a market has slowly been created. As soon as these start selling in considerable numbers it will be worthwhile for a huge corporation such as Honda to start their R&D machinery too. Bear in mind, as far as we know it has not started yet and our FMX 1000 is an artist’s impression to illustrate what could happen. Or perhaps the FMX concept bike from the Paris show could be the basis for a new model? Add some radial brakes, spoked wheels and sporty tyres. Take one VTR 1000 V-twin engine, take the Varadero 1000 chassis and style it like the FMX 650 and you have got a Honda Hypermotard. Would you buy one?  

The old Australian Superbike champ Troy Bayliss is on the pace already and posted the fastest lap around the wet (would you believe it!) Losail circuit in Qatar. Our tip to Bayliss is not to loose his head during and after the two races on Saturday (see pic). Pictured with fellow Xerox Ducati rider Lanzi and two local sword slingers. Heads will roll if Ducati doesn't win this year... All results will be posted here. TS

Yesterday, before anyone else, you got the details of Ducati's new mini-Monster of 73bhp. Today the official pictures. The engine is based on the old 620, but bored up from 80mm to 88mm and a new shorter stroke. Ducati claims this has reduced piston speed by 17% for even greater reliability. Read more further down on the page. TS

Streetfighter video

Ducati has finally sat down and made it's entry level engine that much more exciting. The small air-cooled L-twin has got a 75cc volume increase and 10 extra horsepower. This makes the new 695 the most powerful air-cooled Ducati per c.i. ever. The new Monster 695 will replace the old 620 already in April in Europe and the rest of the world this Autumn. This also means the 620 Multistrada is in the pipeline for the new engine that it really needed. Full press release with official pictures tomorrow after the Paris launch. With a new 73bhp engine the entry level Monster can more easily carry some extra luggage or a pillion (see pic of the old 620 i.e.). TS  

Got Ducati News? No, we do not care about the new Ducati perfume, just the bikes.

A KTM spokesperson told me that the forthcoming RC8 will feature a V-twin engine. KTM also played with the idea of a V4 but has now decided on V-twin. But what is exciting is that KTM’s project managers have set a target of 160-170bhp from the engine. This makes me believe the displacement will be more than 999cc. 1200 anyone? The bike will be showed for the first time at one of the international motorcycle shows this autumn and is scheduled as a 2007 model. Other KTM V-powered on-road models are 990 Superduke, 990 Adventure and 950 SM. We have tested them all and you'll find them under Raptorama. TS

Here's a little Friday tribute to the world's streetfighters. Or the one's Raptors & Rockets has ridden lately anyway. All these bikes are in the video. TS

Streetfighter video

You might think that it has been quiet in this news section the last week. It is not due to nothing happening, but more due to the fact loads of bikes has been tested all over Europe. Here is all the latest by Tor Sagen.

Aprilia will continue developing their Off-road range. First out will be a brand new 1-cylinder 250 4-stroke called MXV 250 (surprise!) That model will be aimed at the MX2 championship. Aprilia has also got plans for a larger displacement SXV to bring something into the 650 class. That will also be a V-twin with spectacular and detailed design. This is what we can say with some certainty, however, what do you think of a RS 550 or 1100? In Supermoto guise the SXV 550 develops a hefty 70bhp. That is serious horsepower in such a light chassis and we believe these characteristics could be transferred into a sports bike styled more like the new RS 125. That would truly be a very exciting prospect and one for the track day fanatics. 70bhp and 140kg dry weight could be the numbers. Pic by Hugo van Waaijen

MV Agusta Brutale 910 R is ready on the assembly line, but the paper work isn't. You will not be able to buy the new 910 R until the Italian ministry of motorcycles approves and homologates the new 910 R. You might think that the 910 R is very similar to the 910 S and that homologation should be a piece of cake. Think again, we're in Italy. What is MV Agusta waiting for? Homologation of the new radial brakes.

Cagiva has shrunk into a producer of Mito 125, Raptor 125 and Raptor 650. Not a great range for the marque that is supposed to provide reasonably priced machines at a price you can afford as opposed to MV Agusta or Benelli. After talking to MV Agusta today I have found out that Cagiva plans to produce a brand new triple engine in China. They will be aimed at the "Multistrada" market against the likes of Ducati Multistrada and Benelli Tre-K. The engine will be available as a 650cc and 850cc triple. Cagiva will work on this engine and hopefully be able to show us something at this years Milan show.

Bimota is currently building a chassis to fit one of the Japanese manufacturers 1000cc hyper sport engines. Bimota designer Sergio Robbiano also told us there will be one new bike in Milan this year and he is also working on one for next year. We do not know which will come first, the sports bike or the other. What if the other was a Voxan powered Scrambler?

Good news for Moto Guzzi fans in the US. Better late than never, the Griso 1100 model will be available at US dealers in March. Whilst talking to Moto Guzzi it is clear that the Norge 1200 launch is getting closer too. Next week we should know when and where. Moto Guzzi will have some surprises in terms of new models at this years Milan show too. Your bookmaker will not provide high odds on one of them being the Stelvio 1200 Adventure tourer. 

Rumours has it that Ducati wants to build a Scrambler model that could fit in with the more and more extensive Sports Classics range. Our designer has made some very nice drawings of how it could look like. One traditional Scrambler and one Street Scrambler.

Rendering of the Aprilia RXV, Aprilia SXV, KTM 990 Adventure & Adventure S Dakar and Triumph Daytona 675 video's is now finished. A couple of the vids are about 4 minutes long and 4MB so suits broadband users best. None of the video's make much sense without sound, so turn that volume up! Enjoy!

Video Aprilia RXV     Video Aprilia SXV     Video KTM 990 Adventure   

 Video Triumph Daytona 675     Video Triumph Scrambler 900

Raptorama     Blog    

Milan 2005  Paris 2005   Birmingham 2005  Tokyo 2005  Manchester 2006

Bike babes from all the shows    

Triumph strategy  Aprilia future & offroad

Have you got news for us? E-mail Raptors & Rockets first

Designers love the Hypermotard. So do we. Ducati Hypermotard won the price in both the overall and open class. 120 professional designers from all over the world nominated the bikes and Hypermotard won followed by Yamaha MT-OS for the overall award. Renowned motorcycle designer Glynn Kerr heads the MDA.

Here is the whole list of winners and runner ups:

Next: videos of Aprilia RXV, Aprilia SXV, KTM 990 Adventure and Triumph Daytona 675 are being rendered right now. TS

But only ram-air assisted. 190hp @ 9.500 is the real figure and the new 14 really will be a torque monster with 154Nm @ 7.500 rpm. Kawasaki has waited for ages to release the final figures, but now that it soon is time to launch the bike to the press all data has been released. TS

Next: Which bike won the honours at the 2005 Motorcycle design awards?

Due to tighter and tighter emission regulations it is believed Suzuki will make quite a few changes to their SV range next year to conform to Euro 3. What do you say about a V-twin with GSX-R style exhaust and fresher more modern design? Well, here is how we think it will look like. Pic: Luc1

It has been a few stressful days, not because of the bikes, but because I have not been able to do any work on the site. I have therefore quickly edited this video of the SXV 550 from the Sicily launch that took place yesterday (02/02). The SXV 550 is one incredible Supermoto. All about all the bikes from Aprilia's world launch next week. Bikes ridden: Aprilia RXV 450 & 550 + SXV 450 & 550. TS Aprilia future & offroad  Raptorama

Aprilia SXV 550 video directly from Sicily

This is the big launch season and the manufacturers are sending journalists all over the world to test the new bikes. Raptors & Rockets are heading for two of them this week. First the Aprilia RXV/SXV launch in Italy and then the KTM 990 Adventure launch in Spain. The blog is the first place you should check for news on these bikes. Later video, images and text will follow of all 4 bikes (Aprilia RXV, SXV, KTM 990 Adventure and 990 S Dakar). Just after arriving back from the 990 Adventure launch we will ride the two new and exciting Triumph models, Daytona 675 and Scrambler 900. So there is much to look forward to in the next two-three weeks here at Raptors & Rockets.

News update: We have images of the 2007 BMW R1200R, a secret new powerful Kawasaki and Suzuki SV650 S. Check back later for those. Also a trendy new 1000cc Honda could soon be on the cards. Research is going on. TS

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From the latest blog entry regarding BMW HP2: "A red-hot flame spewed out of the exhaust, at least 50 centimetres, grilling the left blinker and the number plate like Swiss cheese!" read the full story here.

 Milan 2005  Paris 2005   Birmingham 2005  Tokyo 2005  Manchester 2006

Bike babes from all the shows     Aprilia Video 1            Aprilia Video 2  

Triumph strategy  Aprilia future & offroad  Raptorama

The R1150R is a "streetfighter" mixed with parts from BMW's GS and R1100S. For next years model range the R1150R will be the last of the 1150cc Boxers to get the 1200cc treatment. R1200R should get the best bits from the R1200GS and R1200S. The big question is; Can we expect more than 98bhp? If BMW are really serious about this model they could make it much more competitive by just giving it the 122bhp R1200S engine in stead of the 98bhp GS lump. Both have got plenty of torque so there will be no lacking in that department either way. BMW leaked info about new models regularly through the whole of last year so this summer we might get the first glimpse of the real thing. In the meantime, enjoy Hugo van Waaijen's version. TS

2006 prices released:

This image is our artists impression of how next years R1 might look like. Based on what we have learnt earlier this year next generation R1's will not get too many similarities to the 2006 R6, however we have added a few such as the special side-fairing design that helps channelling the air-flow for optimised temperature and aerodynamics. Our design is not flawless, but gives an impression on how R1 could look like with some R6 goodies. Image by: Hugo van Waaijen. TS

Erik Buell has been at it again and made a proper race bike. XBRR is back to the roots for Buell as this is what it started as, Harley powered racers. The racer will only be produced in very limited numbers, 50 to be more precise. Erik Buell will sell you one for £17.400 ($31.000 or €25.400) in the US, then add some if you want it overseas. With only 50 being made they will probably never leave the US. Nevertheless, most interesting is the fact Buell with this shows intentions of perhaps launching a brand new sports bike with full fairing for the road. Will we see a XB13R Thunderstorm in the showrooms this time next year? A few extracts from Buell's extensive technical detail sheet: Wheelbase: 1316-1367mm (due to adjustable swingarm), Fuel: 16,7 litres, dry weight: 164 kg, Engine: 45-degree V-twin, 1340cc, cooled with forced air/oil, max power @ crank: 150 hp @ 8000 rpm, 135Nm @ 6500 rpm, 8-piston Nissin calliper and Ohlins suspension front and back. TS

Read all about Ducati, Honda and Yamaha's final day of testing in Sepang here. TS

BMW are busy bees these days and have several new models also for the 2007 model year. But what would you say about HP1, HP2 Sport, HP3 or HP4 Sport? BMW's K1200S is reported to have been tuned for a HP4 version. Rumour has it that there's going to be 190bhp and that the standard K1200S frames have bent during testing. Due to the frame problem the project has been delayed. Suddenly I have also noticed that BMW is more careful calling the 2005 HP HP2 Enduro. BMW might have finished a 1-cylinder Supermoto version of the F650GS already. That will be the HP1. HP2 Enduro is already on sale and it is believed the new R1200S will receive the HP treatment as well as HP2 Sport. So what does this leave us? Yes, you guessed it, there must be a HP3 as well. Now this would be big news. BMW launched their attack on the Japanese manufacturers with K1200S and R, is Triumph next? If the HP3 is real, we believe BMW might be working with Aprilia on a three cylinder engine. BMW is certainly in the wind these days. Our speculation goes in the lines of one new HP model a year. HP4 Sport, yes please. TS

Video HP2 low quality for Broadband     Video HP2 ultra low quality for slow connections

HP2 image gallery     HP2 in the blog
 

Kawasaki showed a drawing of their new hyper tourer at the Paris launch of ZZR1400. Based on that drawing we have made our own impression of how the GTR 1400 could look like. We expect more than 150bhp from the new engine. The GTR will be tuned for loads of torque. Suspension will most likely be softer and more comfortable but still firm enough for high speed touring two-up. More info as soon as Kawasaki releases details. Image by: Luc1. TS

All the major MotoGP teams are testing their 2006 machines at Sepang in Malaysia. Yamaha started the three day test by showing off their new main sponsor. The yellow should suit Valentino Rossi well. We guess Max Biaggi is yellow with envy by now. Not only did he loose his MotoGP ride this year, but he also lost his yellow Camel leathers to Rossi. See Rossi's comments and pics of both Rossi and Edwards here. TS

Due to a computer problem I have not been able to update as much as usual the last few days. But today you'll get all the latest. Use that F5 button during this evening. TS

KTM 950 SM is the worlds largest and fastest supermoto. It inspired Ducati to make their Hypermotard and here it is in all its glory. You can now also follow how we are doing on the worlds largest and fastest Enduro, BMW HP2 right here during this week. TS

Video  Blog   Image gallery

All the comments and full results are here. Only 93 of the 232 riders were able to finish the rally. Coma dedicated his win to Andy Caldecott, fellow Repsol KTM rider, that was killed after a crash on stage 9. Pic: DPPI. TS

This Sunday will see the remaining riders enter Senegal and Dakar. There are only 95 riders left and there will probably still be withdrawals. The race is not over until the finish line in Dakar.

Follow the remainder of the great desert rally here. This 'aint no "On any Sunday". Pics of: US KTM rider Blais and Yamaha-Motor France rider Fretigne. Updated 14/01-Victory for Fretigne and Yamaha. Pics: DPPI. TS

New Kawasaki Motard

Pictures by: Adrian Sellers and Luc1

 KX450F Motard. Kawasaki launched the new motocross four stroke power house KX450F last year. By building a brand new four stroke single with almost 60bhp and a dry weight of 99kg, Kawasaki also opened up for more road based single cylinder machines. One of the hottest ideas would be a Supermotard based around the KX450F engine and chassis. We know that designers were playing with this idea for Kawasaki a couple of years ago and it is speculated that Kawasaki have indeed developed something that might look like our CG drawing. The modifications pictured on our image are easy ones and people have done them for years - change the knobbly tyres for some swanky road ones with a more powerful front brake and you have got yourself a supermoto. As a matter of fact, the Italian Kawasaki offroad importer has just made one. This will be launched next week, and will look almost excactly the same as our ”KX450F Motard”. The Italian importer has called its Motard ”SM450F”. SM 450F specs: Max power: 60bhp, dry weight:106,8kg, seat height: 935mm, Tyres: 120/70-17 and 150/60-17. The KX450F is a very extreme motorcycle along the lines of Aprilia’s new RXV/SXV. Since it is a 1-cylinder liquid cooled four stroke, reliability and service intervals should be greater than the equivalent two-stroke, allowing easier conversion into a roadbike. If Aprilia can do it why can't Kawasaki?

 â€Green-Duke” impression. The other bike pictured is a more futuristic design based particularly on KTM’s Duke II. If Kawasaki were to build something like the design impression bike pictured here, it would have a larger displacement engine and more weight. Think more in the lines of Yamaha XTX, Honda FMX 650 or Suzuki DRz. Kawasaki has not currently got a modern large 1-cylinder engine and the KLR650 has been around since the 80’s so it is high time they made one. Other alternatives would be to put the proven Suzuki SV650 V-twin engine in the supermoto chassis, but Kawasaki is not collaborating with Suzuki anymore. The KX450F design would therefore fit the bill if Kawasaki could only make it a little more reliable for road use. Or build a larger displacement engine around the 650cc mark, heavier but more horsepower, less highly tuned. US designer Adrian Sellers worked for Kawasaki USA and is the man behind the green ”Duke” impression. Kawasaki asked him to explore future concepts. Sellers commented: “The design came about as I was considering possible directions to take the Kawasaki brand, and the current rise of the Super-moto class was an easy choice.  It would match the offerings of KTM, but with a more humane price-point. Unfortunately, while the design has been widely liked by pretty much anyone who has seen it, Kawasaki is unlikely to alocate the necessary money for such a product (Plastics and frame = money). Their current focus is very much on their racing, and derivative product. If Kawasaki were to produce a super-moto, (its only a matter of time before they do), it will probably be along the lines of the current Suzuki and Yamaha offerings...that is to say, leaning more towards moto-x styling modified for the street rather than a unique concept.”  Sellers currently works for GK design international (GKDI).  TS  

MZ released a design study into how they want the 1000 SF to look like in the future today. Both ends are much shorter and the SF X looks like a proper streetfighter you would want racing between street corners in town. MZ's  new designer Jens vom Brauck: “The SFx proves that even traditional virtues such as reliability and suitability for everyday use of the MZ bikes, can be combined with emotions. The brawny appearance it does not only stand out against other designs, but it symbolizes the indestructibility that characterizes MZ.” The SFX is a concept for now, but as usual, if you want it and shout you'll get it. Raptors & Rockets would like to know what YOU think about it. Send all your comments and rantings to this E-mail and we'll forward the best comments to MZ.  TS

 See how we are getting along on the 2006 Aprilia Tuono R day by day here and image gallery here.  Video TS

KTM's statement: "Australian Repsol KTM rider Andy Caldecott fatally crashed on the 9^th stage of the Dakar (Nouakchott – Kiffa).

The accident happened directly after the day off. This information has totally shocked us, we’re at a loss for words.

The terrible accidents in the past 2 years caused us to start with mixed feelings and question our rally engagement. The presenters of the Dakar have tried to make the rally safer together with several manufacturers. A tempo limit has been adopted, a GPS system which enables each rider to be located and to allow him to communicate with the presenter. Riders can have more rests now due to shorter tank stops. A pretty sportive rally until yesterday’s day of rest eclipsed the pain of the past - today we were brutally pulled out of our dream to make this rally safe.

Our thoughts are with Andy and his family." 

Past years Dakar winners Fabrizio Meoni and Richard Sainct as well as KTM rider John Deacon all died after rally crashes in the last few years and it is getting harder for KTM to justify their huge involvement in the famous desert race. KTM Gauloises rider Cyril Despres won today's gruelling stage, but it will be a bitter victory when news about fellow KTM rider Caldecott arrives.

Results are here.

California's governor and Harley-Davidson rider Arnold Schwarzenegger crashed into a car backing out into a street today. He was carrying his son with him in the side car. Apart from a few stitches on his lip the Governator and son survived without serious injury. "The collision happened about 3:15 p.m. as the governor was riding his motorcycle north on the 2100 block of Mandeville Canyon Road in the Brentwood neighbourhood with his son, Patrick, 12, seated in a sidecar attached to the motorcycle, said Los Angeles police Officer Jason Lee." A vehicle, which a passer-by said appeared to be a Volvo sport utility vehicle, backed into the street out of a driveway. The governor was not able to stop his motorcycle in time, and he hit the other vehicle at a low speed, Lee said. Those Volvo drivers we say. Last Arnold crashed in 2001 he broke six ribs. Arnold commented in 2001: "It was a Sunday afternoon and I was riding through Santa Monica on my Harley, when the car in front of me suddenly braked. My front wheel hit the rear fender of the car and I ended up sliding along the road sideways. I was taken to the ER at St. John's Hospital, and they told me I had broken six ribs and that I couldn't work out for three months -- until early March." "I love riding my motorcycle along the Pacific Coast Highway -- the freedom of the road and the smell of the sea. That's the California spirit," Schwarzenegger said. pictured left is Arnold visiting the K&N performance air-filters factory in the US. Watch out for those Volvo's Californian's! TS

This weekend (06/01-08/01) it was time for the annual motorcycle show in Manchester. Read what we thought about it here and also have a look at the rest of the custom painted Triumph Rocket III pictured to the left. TS          Drag racing video from G-Mex

Birmingham     Paris     Milan     Tokyo     Manchester     Bikebabes

There are no doubt that the legendary Dakar rally is only for the hardest of the hardest. Chilean KTM rider Carlo de Gavardo won today's stage that saw the riders leave Morocco and enter Mauritania. Marc Coma is still the overall leader of the rally. Now Africa really starts. Read all about the teams, results, agony, what happened to Despres collarbone and actor Charley Boorman when he disappeared from the Iritrack here. Latest update 08/01: S7+S8 results, reports (Honda F450 XE, Thierry Bethys) and maps of the area.

When we now have had to put our ear to the ground, since most of the factories are still closed after the Christmas break, there are a couple of new bike stories emerging. The biggest is perhaps speculations about Triumph's 2007 model range. The speculations range from a 1050 Tiger supermoto to a more confirmed 675 Speed Triple (MCN got spy shots of it in Spain). It is also believed that the Rocket III engine and chassis is being slowly developed into a big tourer. Just how big only time can tell. From the Italian Alps we have heard that a new Moto Guzzi has emerged. According to one of our sources it has been named after Italy's highest mountain pass, the Stelvio. It is believed the bike will be called Moto Guzzi Stelvio 1200 with the same engine as the new tourer Norge 1200. As the name suggests Moto Guzzi is going after the profitable Adventure bike segment to compete against BMW R1200 GS, KTM Adventure 990 and Buell XB12X Ulysses. From Aprilia it is expected (apart from what we have reported on earlier) that the Caponord will become more hard-core from 2007 to stand up to the Adventure competition. We think a new Tuono 125 with the features from the new RS125 is on the cards too. Our conclusions from all this is that Adventure tourers is not just a segment in the market anymore. Streetfighters used to be a small segment, now everyone makes one. Supermoto used to be just a segment and more and more manufacturers now makes them. The newest addition is the Hypermotard where KTM rules with the 950 Supermoto shortly followed by the new Ducati Hypermotard. Has Triumph jumped on the band wagon with a new Tiger related Hypermotard? Photo top left of KTM 950 SM : F. Lheritier TS

G-Mex in Manchester is the location for UK's first 2006 bike show. Raptors & Rockets will be there to check out the mood. The UK News link will be updated with our findings.

The text to follow the images of the 990 Superduke has now finally been published under Raptorama. Here is a little video that has been edited in a hurry as well for your viewing pleasure. TS

Video KTM 990 Superduke

The race to Dakar has now started. Today (03/01) the competitors will hit the dunes for the first time in 2006. Happy new year! TS

Have a jolly good Christmas and a happy new year to every single one of you. TS

Raptors & Rockets Xmas video

I am Santa Claus by Bob Rivers

27.12.05 Follow the Lisboa-Dakar rally here. Check out the teams and statistics before the rally starts 31. December. Next: BMW F650GS Dakar, Simon Pavey and Charley Boorman.

Even though it is Christmas we are still able to dig out a few motorcycle news for you. BMW's R1150R and R1150R Rockster will during next year be replaced by a new R1200R with the latest engine in the same way as R1200 GS and  R1200S got the latest Boxer motor. What BMW have told us is that the basic technology will be similar to R1200 GS. This basically means more power and less weight. We also asked whether there would be a restyling and BMW would not give us any details. It shouldn't look too different though and BMW is doing a good job with the second hand market. None of the upgrades have alienated the old model much. They have simply got better and better in manageable steps. Pictured: R1150R and R1150R Rockster. TS

Ok it's time to let you know what we are working on at the moment. Loose strings, hard facts and pure speculation, you'll have to decide for yourself what could make for a hard gift under your 2006 Xmas tree or not. Let's start with the much anticipated upgrade of the current Suzuki Hayabusa. The current EURO 2 regulation expires next summer and Euro 3 takes over. This means that many motorcycles needs new engines and exhausts to conform to new tighter emission rules. GSX1300R is one of them. This will lead to one of two: 1.Hayabusa gets a brand new engine that conforms to Euro 3. 2. Hayabusa will be discontinued in the model range. Now we hardly believe the 'Busa will be discontinued so a new engine and exhaust it is then. But to make this new development worthwhile for Suzuki it needs to appear as a new model. So the speculation goes in the lines of a new GSX1400R with all newly designed aerodynamic body work and a top speed to at least match Kawasaki ZZR1400. Or why not a GSX1500R whilst at it? It couldn't hurt in today's mega cubes market and specially not if it's the fastest motorcycle on the planet too. Expect in particular engine technology from the race winning GSX-R1000 and a brand new crazy looking body work to bring the controversy back now that people are used to the Hayabusa looks. The engine will then be the basis for a big GSR also called the B-king. And with the GSR600 and a large capacity B-king (GSR1400?) there should be room for a naked version of GSX-R1000 in the middle (GSR1000?). We believe one of the reasons we have not heard anything official yet is to avoid any interruption to the sales of the GSX-R models. Comments from official Suzuki sources: No comment.

There are many rumours about Kawasaki ZZR1400 and Kawasaki has not been capable of putting any of them to rest. At the moment we do not even know whether the claim that Kawasaki has produced the most powerful motorcycle ever is true. The first and only press release is more than three months old and we still haven't received the full technical specs. Suzuki will have had time to launch their new Hayabusa by the time Kawasaki decides whether they should brake the 186Mph and 200bhp barriers or not. It's a very complex task now that the Euro 3 regulations lurks in the background and we bet all the worlds engine designers are cursing the new rules at this point. Nevertheless there seems to be plans for both a new Kawasaki tourer and naked Z-series addition with ZZR1400 engine. If the rumours about a Z1400 are true it will be to compete with the long awaited arrival of a Suzuki B-king and the current Yamaha FZ1. Honda's new CBF1000 won't be more exiting than the 600 in this company. Which could be a good thing for some...? Comments from official Kawasaki sources: I will find out for you tomorrow (one week ago). = No comments.

Honda's long awaited V5 road engine is still as unconfirmed as ever. However 2006 will mark the 5th anniversary for the RCV211 on the race tracks. This also leads us to believe Honda will have had 5 years to develop and test a road going version of the magnificent V5 engine. It's all about economy of scale and if Honda were to launch a V5 it would be for several different platforms. This is why we think both the VFR and the Blackbird would benefit from a V5. The VFR would then get a capacity hike to about 900-1000cc whilst a bigger bore version with high performance would be available to the XX to compete against Suzuki Hayabusa, BMW K1200S and Kawasaki ZZR1400. This would also be the most popular decision Honda has ever made if our predictions comes to fruition. Comments from official Honda sources: No comments.

Yamaha has had an amazing 50th anniversary and there is no doubt the other manufacturers will use 2006 to catch up. However, we do not believe Yamaha will rest for long on their laurels. Most of the news desks around the world were expecting a brand new R1 in 2005, however the R6 was the big news. This is why we believe there is a revolutionary new 2007 YZF R1 on the cards. This is why we have got the SP and 50Th anniversary models to clear out all the stock of present R1 engines and chassis. It is also expected that Yamaha will extend even further to its MT range and we might see the new V-max being launched as a 2007 bike as well.  Official Yamaha Comments: No details on the V-max and no comments about any new R1.

BMW hard necked denies there is a light weight supermoto with a 1-cylinder engine on the cards for next year. We believe it is however and we know from unofficial sources that something is going on with a high spec supermoto. We give you these three options: F650GS Supermoto, HP1 (high power 1-cylinder) or F450GS Supermoto (based on the Aprilia cooperation). Here is the comment BMW has made: Everything that has been published or discussed in the media at the moment is speculation. The only thing our Head of BMW Motorrad Dr. Diess has communicated in an interview referring to your request to a motorcycle with 150 kg is the following: "Mr Diess what does the production contract with Aprilia, which is so shrouded in mystery, contain?" "Herbert Diess: it means that a new motorbike will be produced there for which Aprilia has also taken on part of the development work. This is due to the fact that we are working at full capacity due to our product offensive which includes the new flat twin models, the new four-cylinder and the new middle class two-cylinder. Our development division has 400 people which are on a level of the Japanese competitors. It would have been very difficult for us to continue growing in this area. With this model we have discovered a market opportunity for a new BMW motorcycle segment and we saw no sense in building up all these capacities at our home base. And our experience with Aprilia has been very good in the past. There will be a single cylinder motorbike and the weight we're aiming for is 150 kilos. This BMW niche motorcycle could be on its wheels by the end of next year at the earlies