2012 Husqvarna Nuda 900R

This post comes almost 4 months since the last one but spare me because the motorcycle featured this time might just take your breath away being so radical in nature. This is the Huqsvarna Nuda 900R ......

Huqsvarna Nuda 900R

 

 

Husqvarna calls the Nuda a ground-breaking model which to me, appears quite valid. The guys have managed to break the mold with a completely new and rather radical motorcycle that seems to be across between a supermoto and a naked bike.
Quoting an official statement from Husqvarna, "Husqvarna’s decision to offer the Nuda 900R challenges current road bike design and offers the purchaser a point of difference and the ability to stand out from the crowd in both styling and performance. In addition we see a great potential to grow in this direction, providing thrilling products incorporating true Husqvarna DNA.
This 900 combines Husqvarna's traditional sporting nature with BMW's engineering, technology and reliability. And this is just the start!
Our future road bikes will continue to have Husqvarna's DNA and, above all, its concept of riding based on pleasure, power and flexibility. The air intakes incorporated at the front of the body and the tapered tail, almost like a racing bike, highlight the unique design of this new model. The technical components, along with the engine, the trellis frame and the visible radiator are a prelude of sportiness, performance and, above all, fun." and I bet it.

At the core is the BMW's 800cc twin cylinder engine modified to increase displacement to 900cc for higher power, aggressive racing appeal along with modification to many internal components to improve performance.
The top-notch components gracing the Nuda, just like our Husqvarna racing bikes: fork from Sachs, Öhlins shock absorber (both fully adjustable), Brembo Racing brakes, and many small details in carbon fibre, sport exhaust system with an exhaust valve and much more.

2012 Husqvarna Nuda 900R Features
Looks and performance:
Combining exotic Italian design with the technical brilliance and engineering expertise of the BMW Group, this road-going Husqvarna begs to be ridden hard and is equipped with the kind of quality components that allow you to exploit and enjoy its considerable performance potential.
Unquestionably a Husqvarna, the Nuda 900 R proudly displays the company’s distinctive red and white competition colours, hinting at the impressive racing heritage that includes an enviable 79 world championship titles achieved to date – and counting...
The engine room:
The heart and soul of the Nuda 900 R is the technologically advanced parallel twin BMW F 800 R motor, increased in capacity to 900cc and adapted to Husqvarna’s specific requirements to give the Nuda even more power and torque (>100hp and 100Nm) across the rev range. Check out the red rocker box cover too – you’ll see this Husqvarna ‘stamp’ on many of our sports machines.
Extracting the maximum:
Getting the most from the Nuda 900 R is just a twist of the throttle away, backed up with a whole host of premium components and features on this exciting new machine that include:
Fully adjustable 48mm Sachs forks at the front
Öhlins rear shock
Brembo monobloc racing brakes with 320mm discs providing huge stopping power
Fuel tank under the seat for ideal weight distribution
Carbon fibre clamp, end cap and heat shield on exhaust muffler
Extremely low weight of less than 175kg
Agile at low speeds, stable at high speeds, the Nuda 900 R is designed with stylish intent and is engineered to thrill. Bold and fresh Italian styling only hint at its possibilities.

2012 Husqvarna Nuda 900R - International Specifications/Technical Details
Engine
Type Water cooled 4-stroke in-line two-cylinder, two overhead camshafts, dry sump lubrication
Bore / Stroke 84 mm x 81 mm
Capacity 898 cc
Rated output 77 kW (105 hp) at 8,500 rpm
Max. torque 100 Nm at 7,000 rpm
Compression ratio 13.0:1
Mixture control / Engine management Electronic intake pipe injection / digital engine management, two engine mappings (switchable by customer)
Emission control Closed-loop 3-way catalytic converter, emission standard EU3 Performance
Performance / Fuel consumption
Maximum speed Over 200 km/h
Fuel consumption over 100 km at constant 90 km/h 4.3 l/ 100 km [Trans]
Fuel consumption over 100 km at constant 120 km/h 5.95 l/ 100 km
Fuel type Unleaded super, minimum octane rating 95 (RON)
Electrical System
Alternator 390 W 12V
Battery 14 Ah, maintenance free
Power Transmission
Clutch Multiple-disc clutch in oil bath, mechanically operated
Gearbox Constant mesh 6-speed gearbox integrated into crankcase
Drive Endless O-ring chain with shock damping in the rear hub
Chassis / Brakes
Frame Tubular steel trellis main frame and rear frame, removable passenger footpegs
Front wheel location / suspension Sachs Up Side Down fork, ø 48 mm, rebound and compression damping adjustable, spring preload mechanically adjustable
Rear wheel location / suspension Cast aluminium dual swingarm, cantilever with Öhlins shock absorber, rebound and compression damping adjustable, spring preload mechanically adjustable, length adjustable (10 mm)
Travel front / rear 210 mm / 180 mm
Wheelbase 1,495 mm
Castor 101 mm
Steering head angle 65.5°
Wheels Cast aluminium wheel
Rim, front 3.5"x17"
Rim, rear 5.5"x17"
Tyres, front 120/70 ZR 17
Tyres, rear 180/55 ZR 17
Brake, front Brembo system: double floating discs, ø 320 mm. 4 - piston monoblock radial calipers with sintered pads
Brake, rear Brembo system: single disc, ø 265 mm with floating caliper
Dimensions / Weight
Seat height, unladen weight 875 - 895 mm (adjustable rear shock length)
Inner leg curve 1,920 - 1,960 mm (adjustable rear shock length)
Unladen weight, road ready, fully fueled 1) 195 kg
Dry weight 174 kg
Permitted total weight 391 kg
Payload (with standard equipment) 196 kg
Usable tank volume 13 l
Reserve approx. 3 l
Length 2,190 mm
Height (not inc. mirrors) 1,225 - 1,245 mm
Width (inc. mirrors) 895 mm

 I guess that's what most of the competition will get to see!!!!

Victory Cruiser Motorcycles-- Victory Vegas Motorcycles

Victory Vegas Motorcycle

Victory Vegas Motorcycle

Victory Vegas Motorcycle

Victory Vegas Motorcycle

Victory Vegas Motorcycle

Victory Vegas Motorcycle

Victory Vegas Motorcycle

Victory Vegas Motorcycle

Victory Vegas Motorcycle

Victory Vegas Motorcycle

Victory Vegas Motorcycle

Victory Vegas Motorcycle

Victory Vegas Motorcycle

Victory Vegas Motorcycle

Hero Impulse Test Ride

Hero Impulse

 The Hero Impulse is the first offering by the leading motorcycle manufacturing house Hero MotoCorp (previously Hero Honda) since they decided to part ways with Honda Motors and Scooters. While skeptics are still busy questioning the ability of Hero MotoCorp R&D facility to face the changing Indian 2-Wheeler market, we have in our nearby showrooms, the Impulse.

At home in dirt

The Impulse is a different product, unlike anything the Indian market has seen till now. It is a dual-purpose bike, take it for a ride through the streets or just drift away from the tarmac to play in the rugged earth, it is at home both ways!

courtesy: Bike India

Talking about the engine first, it's a 150cc, 4-stroke single cylinder, air-cooled OHC powerplant performing it's duties on the CBZ, Hunk and Achiever for Hero and the Unicorn for Honda. A change in compression ratio and cylinder head though have changed the character of it. The mill now makes a little less power (13.2 bhp) but more torque (13.4Nm) to overcome the kind of terrain it has been built to tackle. High torque also means quick over-taking in the streets. Oodles to torque meant that we had fun kicking dirt and jumping over uneven terrain.

courtesy: Bike India

The rugged tires perform quite well in dirt and stick to the surface, giving you enough confidence to throw it around! They feel at home on the streets too, but definitely take a miniature toll on the fuel consumption owing to their nature. The Hero guys must be thanked here for keeping this point in mind and equipping the bike with dual purpose tires of milder nature.
The rear brake is 110mm drum with an upward mounted arm, looks neat but we would like a disc brake assembly here more. The sprocket guard is a clever addition as well as the Utility box on the left side of the motorcycle. The rear shock is worth mentioning, a Nitrox charged Monoshock unit with 150mm travel, which soaks up bumps effortlessly on streets as well as keeps you stable off-roading.

courtesy: Bike India

Coming up front, the 19-inch wheel houses a 240mm disc, holding it in place are telescopic hydraulic suspension with large 180mm travel, enough for city riding and optimum for that off-road fun that you want to have! We would like to see a disc guard which seems practical and would prevent damage to the disc.





Coming to the ride and looks of the bike, IT IS TALL ! The bike boasts of  245mm ground clearance and 835mm saddle height, which puts it out of reach for certain riders who have a shorter stature, anyone standing below 5'5 would find it immensely difficult to reach the ground. The handling of the Impulse is precise and fun but shorter riders might find it difficult to maneuver in congested city traffic.

courtesy: Bike India

 The seat is quite wide to support the rear of both the rider and the pillion, coupled with optimally wide handlebars it provides enough comfort for those long rides and highway trips!

courtesy: Bike India

The exhaust pipe is a great looking piece, placed on the side of the seat (no need for pillions to worry as there is a shield to prevent any accidental burns!).

courtesy: Bike India

The beak in front is nice to look at and is instrumental in imparting that rugged character to the bike.


So overall the Hero Impulse is a great bike (or that would be an understatement), great for your trips around town (provide you are tall enough), when you want take the plunge (in the dirt, that is) or for that long road-trip you had planned. The bike is a go-getter, it goes everywhere you want to take it. It's a fun machine and you do start having fun as soon as you dump the clutch.
Anything that we would like to see soon on the bike. Sure !
1. A rear disc brake
2. A disc guard up front
3. Adjustable seat height
and most importantly
4. A variant with larger engine capacity to..........uh well, challenge the Dakar !!!!!!!!

Specification Of Hero Motocorp Impulse 150

Engine Type

Air Cooled, 4-Stroke Single Cylinder OHC

Displacement

149.2cc

Compression Ratio

9.1:1

Maximum Power

13.8 Bhp

Maximum Torque

13.6 Nm

Cylinder Bore

56.5 mm

Stoke

49.5 mm

Ignition

D.C-CDI

Starting

Kick Start / Self Start

Wheel Base

1360 MM

Tyre Size

19 inch(F) - 17 inch(R) mm

Wheel Type

Spokes

P.S.- Visitors are kindly requested to leave their valuable comments, what they feel, like/dislike of this blog and suggestions for improvements. Thank You........

2012 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14R

The Kwacker comes calling....... something the 'Busa fans wouldn't really enjoy finding out !!

When it arrived on the big-bore sportbike stage in 2006, after it's predecessor, the mighty ZX-12 failed to make the Suzuki Hayabusa bite the dust in the street-legal power game, the big ZX-14 (also known as the ZZR1400 in European, Australian & Japanese markets) blew everyone’s minds – owners, journalists and competitors – with its incredible thrust, sport-tourer comfort, agile handling and aerodynamic full-coverage bodywork.
Fortunately for Kawasaki fans (and unfortunately for the competition), there’s no let up for 2012. Not only is the newly R-designated Ninja ZX-14R Special Edition massively more powerful, it’s also almost entirely new, with more of the character, design excellence, and finesse.

To account the changes for 2012 begin in the new ZX-14R’s engine bay. First off, there’s more displacement via a 4mm stroke increase; to 65mm (up from 61mm), with displacement now registering 1441cc (up from 1352cc). Combustion chamber shapes are newly optimized for 2012, and they’re surface-milled now, not cast. Intake ports are reshaped and polished for maximum flow while working in concert with longer and more durable intake valves.
The camshafts working those valves are more radical, with increased lift and revised profiles, while a stronger cam chain and revised tensioning system maximize reliability at the stratospheric rpm levels this engine is capable of. Newly designed forged pistons with thinner crowns offer increased durability and less weight, and are cooled by a new oil-jet cooling system that pumps a continuous stream of lubricant at the underside of each piston. (Testing shows the engine runs considerably cooler with this system). Compression is up from last year; connecting rods have beefier small ends, and are made of a stronger material; crankshaft main journals are thicker, from 38 to 40mm; a new air-cleaner element is larger and thicker, with 10% more surface area and 40 percent more airflow capability; and transmission gears have been heat-and surface-treated to be even more durable and shift more smoothly.
The fuel injection system has been refined and now offers automatic idle adjustment and reduced emissions. Exhausts exit through a heavily revised exhaust system with reshaped, larger-diameter tapered header pipes and larger-volume, reshaped mufflers, each with an advanced catalyzer to minimize emissions.
The increase in power output are most profound in the mid-high rpm range, with notably stronger acceleration from 4,000 rpm onward. On the ZX-14R, total domination is just a twist of the throttle away.
That power is more manageable than ever, too, thanks to the addition of a back-torque limiting “slipper” clutch assembly and a KTRC traction control and ignition management system that features three different riding modes – full power, medium power and a third mode for low-traction (wet/slippery) conditions. The back-torque limiting clutch technology comes directly from the racetrack, and helps eliminate the wheel-hop and stability-eroding torque effects of energetic downshifting and braking while cornering, or during spirited – or emergency – stops. It also helps protect the bike’s drive train, for optimum durability.
Kawasaki engineers strove to retain the previous ZX-14’s light-handling and maneuverable demeanor, using the existing chassis design as a starting point for the new 14R and its increased power production. To maintain this sweet-handling character but also pump up the sportiness quotient, engineers modified more than half of the previous frame’s aluminum castings and forgings, all of which have different flex and rigidity characteristics than the parts they replace. So while the new alloy frame bears a distinct resemblance to the previous unit’s over-the-engine, monocoque design, it is vastly different: stiffer in some places and unchanged in others, the net result forming an ideal balance for the bike’s weight, power and cornering ability. In back, the swingarm is 10mm longer than before and features more gusseting to effectively match the new frame’s rigidity balance.
Front and rear suspension revisions help maintain this balancing act of wheel control, ride compliance and maneuverability. Both the 43mm fully adjustable inverted fork and multi-adjustable single shock have improved bottoming resistance and revised internal settings, while new lighter and beautifully machined 10-spoke wheels look great and reduce unsprung weight by a whopping 3.3 pounds, further aiding acceleration, handling and suspension action. The new ZX-14R’s triple disc brakes are updated, as well, with more rigid disc material and revised pads for powerful, fade-free stops and a progressive feel at the lever.
Talking about design, the nose is especially imposing, with a more aggressive nose fitted with a quad-headlight assembly and a large ram-air duct stuffing cool atmosphere into the intake system. The traditional 4-fin theme along the fairing’s sides has a more pronounced 3D design this year, while great effort was expended to hide hooks and fasteners as much as possible. The bike’s tail section is especially well-sculpted, with faired-in turn signals and a cool rear seat cowl.
The new ZX-14’s instruments and controls have been reworked as well, with a newly finished gauge cluster and a new multi-function switch on the left handlebar that handles all system functions; you can toggle the LCD screen using the upper/lower buttons, and easily scroll through fuel consumption, remaining range, battery voltage, external temperature, traction control, etc., choosing and adjusting functions using the ‘select’ button in the center of the toggle switch. There’s even an “eco” indicator on the LCD screen that lets riders know when they’re getting maximum economy and fuel mileage.

2012 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14R Specs.:
Engine Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, four valve per cylinder, inline-four

Displacement 1,441 cc

Bore x Stroke 84.0 x 65.0 mm

Compression Ratio 12.3:1

Fuel System DFI® with four 44mm Mikuni throttle bodies

Ignition TCBI with Digital Advance

Transmission Six-Speed

Final Drive X-Ring Chain

Rake/Trail 23 degrees / 3.7 in.

Front Tire Size 120/70 ZR17

Rear Tire Size 190/50 ZR17

Wheelbase 58.3 in.

Front Suspension / wheel travel 43mm inverted cartridge fork with adjustable preload, 18-way compression and 15-way rebound damping adjustment / 4.6 in.

Rear Suspension / wheel travel Bottom-link Uni-Trak® and gas-charged shock with adjustable preload, stepless rebound and compression damping adjustments, adjustable ride height / 4.9 in.

Front Brakes Dual semi-floating 310 mm petal discs with dual radial-mounted four-piston calipers

Rear Brakes Single 250mm petal disc with twin-piston caliper

Overall length 85.4 in.

Overall width 30.3 in.

Overall height 46.1 in.

Ground clearance 4.9 in.

Seat Height 31.5 in.

Curb Weight 584.3 lbs.

Fuel Capacity 5.8 gal

Color Golden Blazed Green with special graphics (SE)

Warranty 12 months

2012 Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade

2012 HONDA CBR1000RR FIREBLADE

CBR1000RR, 20 Years of Superbike Domination.
Honda's 2012 Honda CBR1000RR is the essential superbike-the perfect balance of power and handling designed to work together as one complete package. The CBR900RR set the bar for liter-bike performance when it was introduced 20 years ago, and the new 2012 CBR1000RR sets that bar even higher. For 2012, the CBR1000RR boasts even better handling via a patented Balance-Free Rear Shock, Big Piston Fork and new wheels. Add to that a 999.8cc engine pumping out huge midrange horsepower and torque for class-leading real-world muscle, and you have a high-performance package unmatched in its overall balance by the competition. In addition, new aggressive bodywork aids aerodynamic flow and high-speed handling, and new LCD instrumentation including a lap timer, five-level shift indicator and more, redefine the pure essence of liter-class sportbikes.
There’s big news when it comes to the new 2012 Honda CBR1000RR. The CBR1000RR is already the essential Superbike, offering a perfectly integrated combination of power, handling, and overall balance for both the street and the track. But this year we’ve taken this versatile machine and given it some major upgrades. New suspension, new bodywork, new instrumentation, new wheels—and that’s just the start. All that in addition to its famously powerful 999cc liquid-cooled inline-four-cylinder engine and all-aluminum twin-spar chassis.

 Changes to the CBR1000RR for 2012 focus on sharpening what is arguably the most critical component in a motorcycle designed for sporting use: chassis performance. Granted, big-time horsepower always holds its own attractions and the CBR1000RR pours out huge quantities of horsepower and torque right in the midrange where literbike aficionados want it to be-after all, what's the point of having a peaky big-bore bike? However, it's the ultra-responsive middleweight-style handling that truly allows this large-displacement sportbike to shine.

Starting with a tried and proven four-piece Fine Die-Cast twin-spar aluminum frame, Honda's development team focused their efforts on incorporating innovative chassis components, specifically a new-concept rear shock, Big Piston Fork, plus new 12-spoke cast aluminum wheels that provide even more rigidity. In doing so, they were able to markedly expand the CBR1000RR's handling prowess and enhance its braking and traction characteristics. In addition, newly designed bodywork following the layered fairing concept aids aerodynamic flow to create a large still-air pocket around the rider while also helping draw air through the cooling system. An integrated chin spoiler in the nose also reduces aerodynamic lift at speed, thereby improving handling, and the overall package lends a more aggressive appearance.

Newly refined EFI settings make the engine even more manageable, with smoother throttle response specifically at smaller throttle openings. New LCD instrumentation communicates everything from gear position to coolant temperature and speed. The cockpit display now incorporates a digital bar-type linear tachometer that offers four selectable modes for style of readout. Other instrumentation includes gear position indicator, five-level shift indicator adjustable for sequence interval, clock/four-mode lap timer, coolant temperature, speedometer, trip meter/fuel efficiency/fuel consumption, low-fuel warning light and odometer/numerical tachometer. At the bottom of the display are lights for headlight high beam, neutral and turn signal functions. All in all, these changes make the rider/machine interface smoother and more rider friendly.

The main objectives in the further development of the CBR1000RR's suspension setup included: smoother suspension action, improved rider feel, and increased grip and traction. To achieve those goals, the 2012 CBR1000RR rear suspension system still features Honda's acclaimed single-shock Unit Pro-Link® configuration, but now it introduces the first Balance-Free Rear Shock on a production motorcycle, an advancement developed in conjunction with world-leading suspension specialist Showa that has patent protection pending.

In place of the conventional single-tube shock configuration, the Balance-Free Rear Shock design incorporates a double-tube design featuring a damper case plus an internal cylinder. The damper piston does not feature any valves; instead, the damping force is generated as displaced oil passes through a separate damping component. In conventional rear shocks the damping force is generated in two places, the main and sub damping valves. In the Balance-Free Rear Shock, however, this action is handled in one circuit, allowing pressure changes to be controlled more smoothly by a larger body of oil. The net result is more responsive damping and a smoother, better-controlled damping action, particularly during the transition from compression to rebound. As a result, the Balance-Free Rear Shock delivers more consistent damping over the duration of a ride, track session or race, improved shock absorption and greater traction since contact is more consistently maintained between the rear tire and the road or track surface. In addition, the adjusters for compression and rebound damping settings are placed prominently on the top of the shock body for quick and easy access.

To complement the Balance-Free Rear Shock, the front suspension system now features an inverted 43mm telescopic fork incorporating Showa's Big Piston Fork technology. This new fork uses a unique construction with a larger damping volume to effectively reduce the hydraulic pressure generated as the fork legs compress and extend. The result is more precise action during the initial stroke and smoother damping action, which the rider perceives as improved handling, enhanced front-end feedback and a more solid feel during hard braking.

As before, CBR1000RR owners can also opt for Honda's advanced electronically controlled Combined ABS braking system, which offers the confidence of antilock braking while remaining so unobtrusive that it satisfies even the most committed sport riders. Updates to this system result in a modified front-brake effect better suited to sport riding: now when the rear brake pedal is actuated, there's less initial braking application from the front brake compared to the previous-generation setup, followed by more-progressive front-brake application as brake pedal pressure increases.


Model: CBR1000RR
Engine Type: 999cc liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder
Bore and Stroke: 76mm x 55.1mm
Compression ratio: 12.3:1
Valve Train: DOHC; four valves per cylinder
Induction: Dual Stage Fuel Injection (DSFI)
Ignition: Computer-controlled digital transistorized with 3-D mapping
Transmission: Close-ratio six-speed
Final Drive: #530 O-ring-sealed chain
Suspension
Front: 43mm inverted Big Piston Fork with spring preload, rebound and compression damping adjustability
Rear: Unit Pro-Link Balance-Free Rear Shock with spring preload, rebound and compression damping adjustability
Brakes
Front: Dual radial-mounted four-piston calipers with full-floating 320mm discs
Rear: Single 220mm disc;
Tires
Front: 120/70ZR-17 radial
Rear: 190/50ZR-17 radial
Wheelbase: 55.5 inches
Rake (Caster Angle): 23° 3'
Trail: 96.0mm (3.8 inches)
Seat Height: 32.3 inches
Fuel Capacity: 4.7 gallons, including 1.06-gallon reserve
Estimated Fuel Economy: TBD
Colors:
CBR1000RR: Red, Black, Pearl White/Blue/Red
Curb Weight*: 441 pounds (CBR1000RR)

New for 2012
- Unit Pro-Link® rear suspension features a new, patented Balance-Free Rear Shock from Showa that incorporates a unique double-tube design featuring a damper case plus an internal cylinder for more responsive damping and a smoother, better-controlled damping action.
- The new 43mm fork incorporates Showa's latest Big Piston Fork technology with a larger damping volume to effectively reduce the hydraulic pressure generated as the fork legs compress and extend. The result is more precise action during the initial stroke and smoother damping action, for improved handling, enhanced front-end feedback and a more solid feel during hard braking.
- New 12-spoke cast aluminum wheels provide more consistent rigidity. Together with the new suspension, these wheels offer improved feedback for the rider.
- New layered fairing design creates a large pocket of calm air around the rider to improve comfort while also helping draw air through the cooling system. An integrated chin spoiler in the nose also reduces aerodynamic lift to improve handling.
- Multi-function LCD instruments communicate all important information plus the option of four readout modes for tachometer display, lap timer, five-level shift indicator, gear position indicator and more.
- New revised fuel injection settings give the CBR1000RR a more linear response, particularly at smaller throttle openings.
- Revisions to the optional electronic Combined ABS create a new bias toward sporting/track riding conditions during rear brake application.
- New Red and Pearl White/Blue/Red colors join Black. (C-ABS model available in Red only.)

Ducati 1199 Spy-shots !!!!!

Well the much debated 1098,1198 successor seems to be peeping out of the box and it sure seems to be generating positive response as it has got 'The Doctor' Valentino Rossi adding his valuable experience and expertise in the bike's development. So here it goes:



Bayliss testing the new 1199 at Mugello

Ducati's rivals are reeling after retired Ducati legend Troy bayliss matched his fastest ever time around Mugello, in a sensational three-day test of the new 1199. The 52-time WSB race winner left the track stunned by the pace of the machine at such an early stage: "All I can say is the bike is a beast and she is on the money."

Given a combination of an all-new engine, radically different chassis design, self-confessed 'rusty' rider and little development so far, the times Bayliss set are a staggering achievement, hinting at the huge potential of the mould-breaking new superbike.

Ducati's garage was full of smiles following the three-day test which once again proves its semi-monocoque 'stressed airbox' chassis - which does away with a conventional frame entirely - works and doesn't appear difficult to develop.

The Ducati 1199 is yet under the wraps. But there is hardly anything that will stop the series of spy shots of the bike. That is exactly the reason why the undercover shots of the bike are getting spilled on the Internet from time to time. The two-wheeler was seen once again. However, it was not anywhere on the city roads, but at the Mugello pit lane.

The spy shots showed some more features of the Ducati 1199. There are some cool features that are certain to excite the bike lovers. The exhaust pipe should be specially mentioned. The header of the pipe can be seen outside the fairing. If you recall the exhaust pipe of the Ducati 1198, is smaller in length than the Ducati 1199.

There is another difference that should be mentioned. The cylinder header of the Ducati 1198 is placed under the engine. However, in Ducati 1199, the same can be seen going around the engine.

The bike that was spotted was all red in color and the accessories were to be seen in black. The fuel tank comes in aluminium. We know the physical appearance of the bike. But what matters the most is the performance of the bike. There are reports saying that the performance of the Ducati 1199 is enhanced exceedingly than that of the Ducati 1198.

But there is a doubt about the reports. These reports are emanating from the horse’s mouth – the company people. That is why it is but natural that they give the bike a good and positive review. However, the exact performance of the bike can be gauged once it is out for public sales.

But even if the employees are rating the Ducati 1199 as performance oriented bike, let us not downplay their statements. The history of Ducati should give you the idea of the performance of the model in the wings.

2012 Harley Davidson FLD Switchback

2012 Harley Davidson FLD Switchback

With Detachable Hard Bags and Windshield, Switchback is Two Bikes in One


The Dyna® Switchback™ is custom touring motorcycle with detachable hard saddlebags and quick-detach windshield. Remove those components in just seconds to turn the Switchback into a custom street cruiser. Chassis, suspension and tires are engineered to deliver light, confident handling.

The Switchback is the lightest custom touring motorcycle in its displacement category. Its styling evokes a classic proportion and clean, straightforward lines. The bend of the mini-ape handlebar and its pull-back riser combine with full-length rider footboards and a two-up touring seat to offer most Switchback riders all-day comfort.

The new Dyna® Switchback motorcycle from Harley-Davidson® is a quick-change artist. With its color-matched hard saddlebags and a fork-mounted windshield in place, the Switchback is a custom touring motorcycle. But in seconds, the detachable saddlebags and quick-detach windshield can be removed without tools. Now the Switchback is a custom street cruiser with a gleaming headlamp nacelle, five-spoke cast-aluminum wheels and a mini-ape handlebar. When it's time to head out for a long weekend, simply re-install the saddlebags and windshield, and the Switchback is ready to roll for the state line.

The Switchback is powered by a muscular Twin Cam 103™ V-Twin engine that delivers strong performance on the boulevard and on the highway. The Switchback is the lightest custom touring motorcycle in its displacement category, and at 718 pounds ready-to-ride is 94 pounds lighter than a Harley-Davidson Road King®. New front-end geometry, premium suspension components, and a low-profile front tire give the Switchback a plush ride and responsive handling.

"The new front end geometry, wheel and tire specs, and cartridge fork are engineered to work together to produce steering that's light to input and immediately responsive," Brian Scherbarth, Switchback project lead engineer. "A demo ride will reveal that Switchback is a capable touring motorcycle that's also really fun to ride."

Designed to look great with or without its saddlebags, the Switchback is styled to evoke a classic proportion and clean, straightforward lines from its 4.7-gallon fuel tank to the sweep of its full-coverage rear fenders. The bend of the mini-ape handlebar and its pull-back riser, full-length rider footboards and a two-up touring seat offer most riders all-day comfort.



2012 Harley-Davidson FLD Dyna Switchback Model Highlights
• New model for 2012 model year
• Color-matched detachable hard saddlebags
• Quick-detach, fork-mounted windshield
• 2-into-1 chrome exhaust with straight-cut muffler
• Nitrogen-charged, 36mm monotube rear shocks have preload-adjustable, dual rate springs
• Cartridge-type 41.3mm front fork delivers enhanced damping performance, handling and ride comfort
• Black, 5-Spoke Cast Aluminum wheels with machine-highlighted rims; 18-inch front, 17-inch rear
• Full-coverage front and rear fenders
• Chrome headlamp nacelle
• Chrome fork covers and chrome rear shock covers
• Chrome tank console with integrated ignition switch
• Classic black battery box cover
• Full-length rider footboards
• One-piece, two-up seat with custom stitching
• Black powdercoated engine with polished covers
• 4.7-gallon Street Bob fuel tank
• Stainless steel, mini ape-hanger handlebar on pull-back riser
• Security Package Option bundles Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Smart Security System with proximity-based, hands-free
security fob





2012 Harley-Davidson FLD Dyna Switchback Features and Benefits

• Twin Cam 103™ engine with 103-cid (1690cc), rubber-mounted within the frame, is rated at 100 ft. lbs. of torque at 3500 RPM. The engine is equipped with Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) and is mated to a 6-speed Cruise Drive® transmission.
• 2-into-1 chrome exhaust with straight-cut muffler tuned for a deep exhaust tone.
Advanced suspension is tuned for comfort and precise handling. Nitrogen-charged, monotube rear shocks have preload-adjustable, dual rate springs. A 41.3mm front fork with a 20mm cartridge delivers enhanced damping performance, handling and ride comfort.
• Low-profile Dunlop® 130/70B18 front tire and specific front-end geometry provides reduced steering effort, enhanced steering response and confident low-speed manuevering.
• Color-matched detachable hard saddlebags have a combined luggage capacity of 30 pounds. The saddlebag locks are common to the ignition key, and external latches do not interfere with packing or reduce usable bag volume.
• Quick-detach, fork-mounted windshield.
• The Black, 5-Spoke Cast Aluminum wheels have machine-highlighted rims; 18-inch front, 17-inch rear.
• Full-coverage front and rear fenders.
• Chrome headlamp nacelle.
• Chrome fork covers and chrome rear shock covers.
• Chrome tank console with integrated ignition switch.
• Exposed under-seat battery box
• Exposed rear coil-over shock absorbers
• Classic black battery box cover.
• Full-length rider footboards.
• The one-piece, two-up seat features custom stitched detail. Seat height (laden) is 26.1 inches. Its narrow cross section enables flat-foot stops for most riders.
• Security Package Option bundles Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Smart Security System with proximity-based, hands-free security fob.
• Stainless steel, mini ape-hanger handlebar on pull-back riser.
• 4.7-gallon fuel tank.

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2012 Harley-Davidson FLD Dyna Switchback - USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: Vivid Black $15,999, Solids $16,384 USD

Dimensions
Length 92.8 in. (2357 mm)
Overall Width 37.7 in. (958 mm)
Overall Height 55.5 in. (1409 mm)
Seat Height:
• Laden2 26.1 in. (663 mm)
• Unladen 27.4 in. (695 mm)


Ground Clearance 4.3 in. (110 mm)
Rake (steering head) 29.9°
Fork Angle 28.9°
Trail 5.84 in. (148.3 mm)
Wheelbase 62.8 in. (1595 mm)
Tires (Dunlop® Harley-Davidson® Series, bias blackwall front and rear):
• Front – Dunlop® D402F 130/70B18 63H
• Rear – Dunlop® D401 160/70B17 73H
Fuel Capacity 4.7 gal. (17.8 L) (warning light at approximately 0.9 gal.)
Oil Capacity (w/filter) 3.0 qts. (2.8 L)
Transmission Capacity 1.0 qt. (.95 L)
Primary Chain
Case Capacity 1.0 qt. (.95 L)


Weight:
• As Shipped 696 lbs. (316 kg)
• In Running Order 718 lbs. (326 kg)
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 1170 lbs. (531 kg)
• Gross Axle Weight Rating:
• Front 455 lbs. (206 kg)
• Rear 794 lbs. (360 kg)


Engine
Engine Air-cooled, Twin Cam 103™
Valves Pushrod-operated, overhead valves with hydraulic, self adjusting lifters; two valves per cylinder
Bore x Stroke 3.875 in. x 4.38 in. (98.4 mm x 111.3 mm)
Displacement 103 cu. in. (1690 cc)
Compression Ratio 9.6:1
Fuel System3 Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Air Cleaner Fiberglass media, washable
Lubrication System Pressurized, dry-sump


Drivetrain
Primary Drive Chain, 34/46 ratio
Final Drive Belt, 32/66 ratio
Clutch Multi-plate, wet
Transmission 6-Speed Cruise Drive®
Gear Ratios (overall): U.S.
• 1st 9.311
• 2nd 6.454
• 3rd 4.793
• 4th 3.882
• 5th 3.307
• 6th 2.79


Chassis
Frame Mild steel, tubular frame; rectangular section backbone; stamped, cast, and forged junctions; forged fender supports; MIG welded
Swingarm Mild steel, rectangular tube sections, stamped junctions; MIG welded
Front Forks 41.3 mm fork with 20 mm cartridge damping and triple rate spring
Rear Shocks Nitrogen charged 36 mm monotube damper with 5 step preload adjustable dual rate spring


Wheels4: Black 5-Spoke Cast Aluminum with highlighted rim
• Front 18 in. x 3.5 in. (457 mm x 89 mm)
• Rear 17 in. x 4.5 in. (432 mm x 114 mm)


Brakes:
• Caliper Type 4-piston fixed front, and 2-piston torque-free floating rear
• Rotor Type (diameter x width): Patented, uniform expansion rotors (floating, front only)
• Front (floating) 11.8 in. x .2 in. (300 mm x 5.1 mm)
• Rear 11.5 in. x .2 in. (292 mm x 5.1 mm)
• Anti-lock Braking System: Available


Suspension Travel:
• Front Wheel 3.86 in. (98 mm)
• Rear Wheel 2.13 in. (54 mm)


Performance
Engine Torque5 (per J1349):
• North America 100 ft. lbs. @ 3500 RPM (136 Nm @ 3500 RPM)
Lean Angle (per J1168):
• Right 29°
• Left 29°
Fuel Economy6 (EPA urban/highway test) 42 mpg (5.6 L/100 km)


Electric
Battery (per Battery Council International Rating)
Sealed, maintenance-free, 12V, 19-amp/hour, 270 cca
Charging Three-phase, 40-amp system (493W @ 13.5V, 2000 RPM, 540W max power @ 13.5V)
Starting 1.2kW electric with solenoid shift starter motor engagement
Lights (as per country regulation):
• Headlamp (quartz halogen) 55-watt low beam, 60-watt high beam
• Tail/Stop Lights 8W/28W
• Turn Signal Lights 28W self-canceling
• Indicator Lamps: High beam, neutral, low oil pressure, engine diagnostics, turn signals, low fuel warning, security system7 (optional), low battery, body controller diagnostics

COLOR OPTIONS
Solids
• Vivid Black
• Brilliant Silver Pearl
• Ember Red Sunglo

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