2009 Super Motard Buyers Guide
Many of the bikes featured, owe their origins to a strong dirtbike racing history, with the good news being the current crop are as good as it gets (so far). European manufacturers were the first to explore the world of supermotards, with KTM and Husqvarna the trail blazers. They have of course been challenged - and some would argue overtaken by the latest models from Yamaha, Suzuki and Honda. Either way, these bikes offer immense versatility and durability, and while road legal, offer excitement and fun on dirt roads.
APRILIA DORSODURO 750: Utilising the same running gear as the Aprilia Shiver, the Dorsoduro is set up as a supermotard rather than a naked bike. Engine: Liquid cooled 90 V-twin, Displacement: 750cc, Power/Torque: 67kW @ 8750rpm /82Nm @ 4500rpm, Gears: 6-speed, Fuel capacity: 12L, RRP: $15,990
APRILIA SXV 550: Smart looking supermotard, that's factory ready for competition. Upright and compact, along with good mid-range power boost. Engine: Liquid cooled 77 V-twin, SOHC, 4 valves, Displacement: 549cc, Gears: 5-speed, Fuel capacity: 7.8L, RRP: $14.990
HUSQVARNA SM 510R: Very similar to the SM 450R, both bikes have major improvements gained from race experience (and success). Engine: Liquid cooled single, DOHC, 4 valves, Displacement: 449cc, Gears: 6-speed, Dry weight: 118kg, Fuel capacity: 7.2L, RRP: $13,295
KTM 990 SUPERMOTO (T): Classic supermotard tourer, built tough and available with accessory luggage for long distance travel. Engine: Liquid cooled 75 V-twin, DOHC, 4 valves, Displacement: 999cc, Power/Torque: 85kW @ 9000rpm/97Nm @ 7000rpm, Gears: 6-peed, Fuel capacity: 19L, RRP: $18,995
KTM 690 SMC: Based on the KTM 690 Enduro, the SMC is suitable for daily riding, with ample performance and striking appearance. Engine: 654cc single, 4-stroke, Gears: 6-speed, Fuel capacity: 12L, Dry weight: 139.5kg, Ground clearance: 290mm, RRP: n/a
SUZUKI DR-Z400SM: Great value lightweight supermotard. Engine: Liquid cooled single, DOHC, Displacement: 398cc, Gears: 5-speed Front suspension: Telescopic, adjustable compression & rebound, Rear suspension: Link type, fully adjustable, Fuel capacity: 10L, RRP: $8,890
YAMAHA XT 660R: The off road version of Yamaha's XT660X supermotard comes with a big 21" front wheel plus all the performance of its road going cousins. Engine: Liquid cooled single, OHC, 4 valves, Displacement: 660cc, Gears: 5-speed, Fuel capacity: 15L, RRP: n/a
YAMAHA XT 660X: True supermotard, having evolved from an Enduro bike. Great low to mid-range power. Engine: Liquid cooled single, OHC, 4 valves, Displacement: 660cc Gears: 5-speed, Fuel capacity: 15L, RRP: $12,099
YAMAHA WR 250X: Lightweight motard, that combines lightness with nimble handling. Engine: Liquid cooled 4 stroke, DOHC, Displacement: 250cc, Compression ratio: 11.8:1, Gears: 6-speed, Fuel capacity: 7.6L, Dry weight: 128kg, Min. ground clearance: 265mm, RRP: $10,899
