Tag Archives: sportbikes

News

2024 Honda CBR500R Gets Updated To Look More Like Its Bigger Sibling

I’ve always seen the Honda CBR500R as somewhat different in the world of beginner-friendly sportbikes. While bikes like the Kawasaki Ninja 400 and Yamaha YZF-R3 usually get the spotlight among first-timers, there’s no denying that there’s quite a lot to love about Honda’s 500cc supersport-inspired machine. For 2024, the CBR500R is better than ever before. Let’s take a closer look.

2024 Honda CBR500R

Now, you may have noticed my careful selection of words with “supersport-inspired.” This is because the CBR500R isn’t really a supersport, but rather, a sportbike that imitates the aggressive styling of Honda’s true supersport, the CBR1000RR. For the 2024 model-year, this is more evident than ever before, as the bike receives new, aggressively styled bodywork inspired by the liter bike. The updates for the 2024 model-year focus more on styling and tech, as the CBR500R received major updates to its brakes and suspension in the 2022 model-year.

Diving straight into the tech updates, the 2024 CBR500R boasts a new TFT display measuring a generous five inches. The display can be toggled via an easily accessible switchgear on the left side handlebar. Meanwhile, smartphone integration has been thrown in the mix, with Honda’s RoadSync app offering automatic connection and enhanced adjustability and connectivity for the rider.

2024 Honda CBR500R
2024 Honda CBR500R

On the performance end, Honda’s CBR500R relies on the tried and tested 471cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, parallel-twin engine with the same old 180-degree crankshaft. Criticized for its boring sound and character, the engine does, in fairness, have a very linear and approachable power band, and presents itself as an approachable powerplant for both beginner and intermediate riders. Honda says that the addition of updated PGM-FI technology translates into improved efficiency and performance, while a silent cam chain and reduced friction elements keep the engine running smoothly and more quietly.

To keep the bike’s already docile performance on tap, Honda has thrown in HSTC (Honda Selectable Torque Control), which is really just a fancy way of naming traction control. There’s also a slipper clutch thrown into the mix, so riders have a much more forgiving experience should they struggle to perform smooth downshifts.

2024 Honda CBR500R

News

Hit The Road And Track With Kawasaki’s 2024 Ninja ZX-4R And ZX-4RR

Beginner riders who love sportbikes are in luck as there are now more accessible yet performance-oriented models available. Kawasaki is one brand that offers a good selection of these models, including the popular Ninja 400 and Ninja 650. In 2023, Kawasaki introduced the Ninja ZX-4RR, a small but powerful inline-four sportbike.

In 2024, Kawasaki is expanding its lineup with the addition of the Ninja ZX-4R. The ZX-4R shares many qualities with its double-R sibling, but it is slightly more affordable as it doesn’t include some of the premium features found on the ZX-4RR. The platform has proven to be a great balance of real-world enjoyment and track potential due to its manageable size and weight.

2024 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR - Riding

Both ZX-4 models are powered by the same 399cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, inline-four cylinder engine, producing 76 horsepower and 27.7 pound-feet of torque. While these figures may not seem impressive on paper, the sound of the high-revving motor is enough to turn heads both on the street and on the track. The ZX-4RR offers additional technology including a bi-directional quick shifter and premium adjustable Showa front suspension as standard. It comes with a price tag of $10,099 in KRT trim and $9,899 in standard trim. The ZX-4R is priced at $9,399.

2024 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R

For riders looking for a sportbike to cover long distances, while still keeping the Ninja name, Kawasaki offers the Ninja 1000 SX for the 2024 model-year. This model has been around for a while and comes with a comprehensive set of touring-focused technologies, including Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC), cruise control, and Kawasaki Intelligent ABS (KIBS). It also features a full-color TFT display with smartphone integration through the Rideology app.

2024 Kawasaki Ninja 1000 SX - Cockpit

The Ninja 1000 SX is powered by the reliable 1,043cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, inline-four cylinder engine that’s also found in the Versys 1000 and Z1000 naked bike. It delivers 140 horsepower and 81.7 pound-feet of torque, providing a confident power delivery on both highways and twisty roads. The 2024 model comes in Metallic Matte Graphite Gray / Metallic Diablo Black and has an MSRP of $13,699.

News

SC-Project Introduces New Slip-On Exhaust System for Honda Forza 350

SC-Project is a renowned brand that offers a wide range of aftermarket exhaust systems for motorcycles, catering to different types of bikes such as sportbikes, adventure bikes, tourers, roadsters, and even scooters. Their latest addition is specifically designed for one of the most popular maxi-scooters in the European market: the Honda Forza 350. While maxi-scooters may not be known for their sportiness, aftermarket exhaust systems continue to be a popular choice for modification among scooter enthusiasts.

The X-Plorer II GT slip-on silencer, which is made for the Forza 350, features a compact and premium design. The primary material used in its construction is titanium, known for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio and widely favored for motorcycle exhausts. To further enhance durability and longevity, stainless steel elements are also incorporated.

SC-Project Has A New Slip-On Exhaust System For The Honda Forza 350

Not only does this aftermarket exhaust system enhance the overall aesthetics of the motorcycle with its carbon fiber finishes, but it also serves a functional purpose. One of its standout features is the significant reduction in the Forza 350’s weight by 3.1 kg compared to the stock silencer. Moreover, the X-Plorer II GT silencer complies with the stringent Euro5 emissions standards, ensuring that it meets the latest environmental regulations.

In addition to visual and weight advantages, the X-Plorer II GT silencer from SC-Project also delivers noticeable improvements in the motorcycle’s performance. Riders can expect a richer and deeper exhaust note, enhancing the overall auditory experience while riding.

As for performance gains, SC-Project claims that the X-Plorer II GT offers an increase of up to one horsepower and an additional 0.9 Newton-meters of torque at 7,200 rpm. This improvement translates to enhanced acceleration and responsiveness, making the Forza 350 even more enjoyable to ride.

If you’re interested in upgrading your Forza 350 with the SC-Project X-Plorer II GT slip-on silencer, it is available at a premium price of 820 Euros or approximately $860 USD. It comes in a single titanium finish with a carbon fiber end-cap and a carbon fiber heat shield on the link pipe.

News

Yamaha Updates YZF-R125 And YZF-R15 Sportbikes in Japan

Yamaha has introduced the 2023 YZF-R125 and YZF-R15 sportbikes in Japan, targeting beginner riders in license-restricted countries. These pint-sized motorcycles are designed for the moped class 2 and light motorcycle classes, drawing inspiration from their larger counterparts, the YZF-R7 and YZF-R1.

Unlike other affordable and accessible sportbikes in the beginner segment, Yamaha differentiates itself with the YZF-R15 and YZF-R125 through their impressive features. Both models come equipped with an assist and slipper clutch, enhancing control during downshifting and ensuring smoother riding. They also boast a traction control system, offering greater confidence to beginner riders in various weather conditions.

Yamaha Refreshes YZF-R125 And YZF-R15 Sportbikes In Japan
Yamaha Refreshes YZF-R125 And YZF-R15 Sportbikes In Japan

On the technology front, Yamaha equips these beginner-friendly bikes with impressive features. Both models come with a bi-function LED headlight and an LCD instrument panel similar to the previous generations of the YZF-R1. The sportbikes ride on 17-inch wheels and feature inverted front forks and a rear monoshock with a premium aluminum swingarm for excellent running gear.

Yamaha Refreshes YZF-R125 And YZF-R15 Sportbikes In Japan

When it comes to performance, the YZF-R125 and YZF-R15 are not designed as powerful machines. They are equipped with a 125cc and 155cc single-cylinder engine, respectively. However, both models feature liquid cooling, fuel injection, and Yamaha’s Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) system. This system optimizes valve timing for fuel efficiency and low-end torque while providing adequate power at higher RPMs. The power is transferred to the rear wheel through a six-speed manual transmission with a slipper clutch. Additionally, there is an optional quick-shifter available for even more exciting performance.

The Yamaha YZF-R125 and YZF-R15 will be available in Japan starting October 16, 2023. The YZF-R125 is priced at 517,000 Yen ($3,502 USD), while the YZF-R15 carries a price tag of 550,000 Yen ($3,725 USD).

Yamaha Refreshes YZF-R125 And YZF-R15 Sportbikes In Japan
News

Suzuki Introduces Updated Naked Sportbikes for 2024 Model-Year

Suzuki has unveiled the refreshed GSX-S1000 and GSX-8S naked sportbikes for the 2024 model-year. While both models maintain their mechanical and performance features, they now come in new color options. Previously criticized for a lack of innovation, Suzuki’s introduction of the middleweight models with the new 776cc parallel-twin engine has garnered attention. Let’s explore the updates made to these two bikes.

The GSX-S1000 is equipped with a 999cc liquid-cooled fuel-injected inline-four cylinder engine derived from the K5 GSX-R1000 for the 2024 model-year. The engine has been tuned to enhance road performance, delivering 150 horsepower and 80 pound-feet of torque. On the technology front, the Suzuki GSX-S1000 features multiple ride modes through a throttle-by-wire system, all accessible via the bike’s TFT instrument cluster. The bike is equipped with ABS-equipped Brembo brakes and rides on 17-inch wheels. Suspension consists of fully adjustable KYB equipment.

Suzuki Refreshes Its Range Of Naked Sportbikes For 2024 Model-Year

For the 2024 model-year, the GSX-S1000 is available in the popular Metallic Triton Blue colorway with white accents. Additionally, there is a new Metallic Matte Sword Silver option that gives the bike a sporty look thanks to red accents on the front fairing and tail section. The manufacturer suggested retail price for the bike is $11,699 USD.

The Suzuki GSX-8S is a lightweight and agile streetfighter option. Unveiled in the global market for the 2023 model-year, the bike has undergone minimal changes for 2024, primarily cosmetic enhancements. The middleweight naked bike is now available in a new Glass Matte Mechanical Gray paint scheme, in addition to the previously offered Cosmic Blue and Metallic Matte Black No. 2/Glass Sparkle Black options.

Suzuki Refreshes Its Range Of Naked Sportbikes For 2024 Model-Year
Suzuki Refreshes Its Range Of Naked Sportbikes For 2024 Model-Year

The Suzuki GSX-8S has an MSRP of $8,999 USD for the 2024 model-year. This middleweight naked bike was purpose-built to meet the demands of riders seeking a versatile and sporty option. It is powered by a 776cc liquid-cooled fuel-injected parallel-twin engine with a 270-degree crankshaft, delivering the power and sound reminiscent of a 90-degree V-twin engine. The bike is equipped with various technological features, including multiple ride modes, traction control, and ABS, all accessible through its large five-inch TFT display.