Australian Motorcycle Expo. April 09
Now on to the show. A number of new models were revealed in Queensland for the first time from some of the biggest names in the bike industry. Along with the reveals were hundreds of bikes from all sectors including superbikes, Tourers, cruisers, adventure sports, naked bikes, commuters, supermoto, motocross, enduro, ATV and scooters. The three day event was staged at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre.Event manager Mark Petersen said manufacturers had gone to exceptional lengths to ensure their latest and greatest models were on exhibition. These included:BMW HP2 Sport - The fastest, sportiest and lightest Boxer- engined sports bike yet, ready for the road or track. Aimed at purist sports riders, this model features parts making their first appearance in a BMW production machine, including race shift, forged alloy wheels and MotoGP-inspired dashboard.Can-Am Spyder SE5 - The second Spyder to hit the market receives an all new sequential electronic 5-speed transmission, which, like the sequential manual 5-speed (SM5), includes a transmission based reverse.
It features Dynamic Power Steering and a Vehicle Stability System, which utilise the Spyder's anti-lock brakes, traction control and stability control systems.Harley-Davidson XR1200 - The Motor Company's proud history of evolution continues with the XR 750 inspired XR 1200. This contemporary, high performance Harley-Davidson features XR 750 inspired styling and livery, a 1200cc high performance powertrain, specifically developed Dunlop Qualifier tyres and unique lightweight cast wheels with dirt track inspired design.KTM 990 Supermoto R - This machine combines irrepressible power and effortless handling. The KTM engineers did their utmost to develop a "machine" that would exploit to the fullest every last inch of leeway in road traffic certification: Fully adjustable 48 WP chassis, ultra light chromium molybdenum tubular trellis frame, enhanced seat ergonomics for perfect drifts as well as Radial brake performance from Brembo all ensure pure pleasure in the curves.
Kawasaki ZX-6R - The new ZX-6R features a wealth of upgrades including improvements to the engine, chassis, suspension, exhaust, instrumentation, brakes - in fact virtually every aspect of the new Ninja ZX-6R is new and improved for 2009. For those really wanting to stand out from the crowd, the new model is also available in Monster Energy styling.
MV Agusta Brutale 989R - This exciting model has an increased capacity and accordingly upgraded specifications in the braking and suspension areas. Showgoers also were treated to the exotic F4CC, 1 of only 100 ever made, with a price tag to match at $185,000.Triumph Thunderbird Designed to take on the best in the cruiser category, combining sleek and modern custom styling with strong performance and great dynamics, the Thunderbird delivers an authentic cruiser experience in a uniquely Triumph package.
The bike features an all new 1599cc parallel twin-cylinder motor with six-speed gearbox and belt drive. The engine, with a bore and stroke of 103.8 x 94.3 mm, will develop in excess of 75bhp in standard trim and produces more than 100 lb/ft of torque.
Suzuki GSXR-1000 - A lighter, more powerful and more responsive new 999cc engine is packed with race bred technology and boasts a class leading power to weight ratio, taking the legend of Suzuki's flagship GSX-R to the next level. With a range of other major developments including an all new chassis, a revolutionary new front suspension system, enhanced brakes and sleek, wind tunnel-refined bodywork, the all-new Suzuki GSX-R1000 is ready to own the racetrack.
Suzuki Gladius SFV650 - Suzuki had a large presence at the Expo with the GSXR-1000 and Gladius two of the most anticipated new motorcycles being released this year. With a 650cc, V-Twin powerplant derived from the popular SuzukiSV650, the Gladius matches sporty performance with a comfortable slim chassis. Ahead of its arrival in Australia this month, expo attendees had a sneak peak of the Gladius' distinctive look, with a compact trellis frame, edgy lines and coloured steel tubing. Suzuki had over 50 motorcycles on show, including the new Boulevard M90 cruiser, the RM-Z450 motocrosser and an extensive range of Suzuki motorcycles, scooters and ATVs. Yamaha YZF-R1 - This stunning performance machine uses the same 998cc engine which has been developed from the YZR-M1 MotoGP design, which Valentino Rossi piloted to victory last year.
