Suzuki SV1000 (2003-current) Motorcycle

New price £6,049
Used price range £1,980-2,875
Engine size 996cc
Power 118bhp
Top speed 155mph

Overall verdict

The Suzuki SV1000 is a purpose built big capacity, sensibly priced, road going sporty V-twin. Ok, the engine’s nicked from Suzuki’s old TL1000S but the rest of the SV1000 is all-new yet the price tag is very reasonable new or used. The faired Suzuki SV1000 ‘S’ version has lower bars but is the better all-rounder. The unfaired SV1000 with higher bars is a real funster if less competent on the motorway.


Engine

The Suzuki SV1000's big V-twin produced over 120bhp at the rear wheel when it first appeared in the TL1000S. Unfortunately the bike had handling ‘issues’ and Suzuki tamed it to little over 100bhp. Claimed power for the Suzuki SV1000 is 118bhp, actual figure is about 106 which is enough thanks to loads of torque – but an exhaust system and power commanded will release more if required from the SV1000.

Ride and Handling

The Suzuki SV1000's chunky aluminium frame with conventional suspension and it works better than the TL1000S ever did. The SV1000's suspension’s not quite as good as pure sports bikes but it’s fine for most people. If you do lots of track days and fancy aftermarket shock and fork re-build will enable you to flick from peg to peg in an instant with no grief. Brakes on the Suzuki SV1000 are strong but work best with fresh fluid.

Equipment

Comfortable over distance but the Suzuki SV1000's seat doesn’t suit everyone. Reasonable if not brilliant pillion seat. Clocks are fairly comprehensive. The Suzuki SV1000's headlights are better than most bikes which is a bonus. Mirrors are acceptable and under seat storage is above average. Steering damper fitted as standard. Additional fairing side panels can ruin the lines of the Suzuki SV1000 and make the engine run hot.

Quality and Reliability

Build quality seems to be a Suzuki problem lately and the SV1000 is no exception. Suzuki SV1000 owners report annoying problems, mainly corrosion and poor finish. Reliability problems are rarer with the SV1000, especially as owners tend to look after their bikes.

Value

New list price is reasonable for a Suzuki SV1000. But new motorcycles are sold at discounts for as little as £5000 for the faired SV1000 and a couple of hundred less unfaired. That makes the Suzuki SV1000 one of the biggest bargains out there. This keeps used values pretty low too. Even running costs and insurance aren’t too pricy for the SV1000. Find Suzuki SV1000 motorcycles for sale.

Model History

2003: Original Suzuki SV1000 and Suzuki SV1000S models launched.
2006: Suzuki SV1000 frames now black not silver.

Other Versions

Suzuki SV1000SZ: Special edition with full fairing, multi-colour paint, black frame, crash bungs and slightly more power.

Honda CG125 (1975-current) Motorcycle

New price £1,999
Used price range £210-1,505
Engine size 124cc
Power 11bhp
Top speed 65mph

Overall verdict

How can you argue with ten million commuters worldwide, still pootling to work in mucky overalls, some thirty years after the Honda CG125 was launched? The Honda CG125 goes, it stops, it goes again the next day - simple as that. The Honda CG125 is the Spam of biking; a bit downmarket, stodgy and uninspiring, but ultimately does exactly what it says on the tin.

Engine

The Honda CG125 motor plods on remarkably well, often with very little maintenance. In fact you could probably run the thing on turnip juice for 1000 miles without it suffering engine failure. The later 2004 onwards Honda CG125s have a vastly improved gearbox and slightly more power, but not much.

Ride and Handling

The Honda CG125 is, in a word, bouncy. Especially if riden by a large lady in a tabard down to Netto. But that's OK, because only a complete madman would expect a Honda CG125 to handle anything like an Aprilia RS125. The basic suspension does the job and if you are on the hefty side, then jack up the preload on the Honda CG125's shocks.

Equipment

The layout on the older Honda CG125 brought new depth to the word `basic.' Later Honda CG125 models have a much better saddle, mirrors, disc rather than drum front brake, plus a five speed gearbox instead of just four speeds. One detail that isn't really progress is losing the fully enclosed drive chain on the older Honda CG125s.

Quality and Reliability

OK, you need to run your motorbike on distilled chicken dung. No problem, buy a Honda CG125 and it will probably get you home. The Honda CG125 is - or at least was - the very definition of rugged reliability, although it's arguable that the original version had more durable cycle parts than later examples.

Value

Brand new, the Honda CG125 it is an expensive motorcycle, especially when you consider how long Honda has been making it, and how cheaply the exact same bike retails in developing markets. Chinese Honda CG125 rivals are 300-500 quid cheaper, but lack Honda's dealer network or warranty back-up. Find Honda CG125 motorcycles for sale.

Model History

1975: Honda CG125 launched.
1988: Main Honda CG125 production shifts to Brazil.
1996: Honda CG125 `clones' exported in volume from China.
2004: Updated Honda CG125 gets disc front brake, bigger tank, new styling.

Other Versions

None.

Suzuki GSX650F (2007-current)

New price £4,999
Engine size 656cc
Power 86bhp
Top speed 135mph

Overall verdict

Suzuki’s new budget and novice-friendly GSXF650F all-rounder proves that sometimes, brilliance is found in the most unlikely places. Although on face value merely a ‘Bandit with a fairing’ the GSX650F’s blend of real world performance, practicality, fun factor and value is pretty much unmatched anywhere.

Engine

The Suzuki GSX650F’s 16-valve, dohc four was all-new in the 2007 650 Bandit, is Euro3 clean, slick and responsive and, most pertinently, tuned for real-world versatility but with an exhilarating top end rush. Fuelling mods means it revs a little higher than the Bandit, although performance is unchanged. Peak power of 85bhp spread progressively over the rev range and decent enough grunt low down means this is a powerplant that’s sufficiently willing and able whatever the gear or your ham-fistedness, yet still rewards with three-figure thrills.

Ride and Handling

The Suzuki GSX650F’s chassis is, for the most part, Bandit 650, too, being centred around the same, no frills, cost-conscious steel tube cradle and conventional forks. Yet in GSX-F guise it gets a more sophisticated shock for added sporting ability and subtly adjusted poise thanks to the fairing, new one-piece, rubber-mounted, lower bars plus new one-piece seat that all adds up to a riding position and balance that is both textbook sports-tourer and somehow impressively pure, too.

Equipment

The key distinguishing feature of the Suzuki GSX650F is, of course, the fairing which at once manages to evoke and mimic GSX-R sportsbike style, provide decent protection from the elements and blend into the whole motorcycle as if the whole design was a clean sheet affair. But there are plenty of other goodies rare on a sub-£5K machine: span-adjustable brake and clutch levers; effective, widely-spaced mirrors; swanky GSX-R style sports instruments (a large analogue tacho flanked by the now usual LCD digital speedo, useful fuel gauge, plus assorted warning lights).

Quality and Reliability

Usual Suzuki standard, which is no bad thing on a sub-£5K bike. Everything gleams and is crisply assembled and from 20 yards you’d easily mistake the GSX650F for a much more expensive machine. Mechanicals and cycle parts are all proven Bandit fare so there should be no reliability issues. Job done.

Value

There’s not other way of putting it: Suzuki’s new GSX650F is astonishingly good value. Where Bandits and the like, though hugely worthy, are still conspicuously ‘budget’ bikes, the GSX650F somehow seems entirely classier and more valuable. It’s no GSX-R, of course, but for under five big ones it’s a steal…

Model History

2007: Model introduced.

Other Versions

None.

Yamaha YZF-R125 (2008-current)

New price £2,999
Engine size 124cc
Power 14.6bhp
Top speed 75mph

Overall verdict

Since 2004, Honda has had the learner sports bike market sewn up – the CBR125R flew out of showrooms faster than its larger capacity counterparts. Yamaha’s range had a gap for a 125 sport motorcycle, and the YZF-R125 fills that gap by combining the Honda’s easy-going ride with a little bit more poke and grown up looks – it’s actually slightly bigger than the YZF-R6 that inspired its styling!

Engine

The Yamaha YZF-R125’s all-new engine has a longer stroke than other 125 motorcycles to give more torque, but it’s still no arm-ripper. Instead, the YZF-R125 gives flexibility two-stroke rivals like the Aprilia RS125 can only dream of. The Yamaha will crawl along at walking pace with the clutch fully engaged, and opening the throttle will give smooth drive right to the redline. It’s good for an indicated 80mph, which will satisfy most riders stepping up from a moped.

Ride and Handling

For a motorcycle that costs a shade less than £3000, has a steel frame and unadjustable basic suspension, the Yamaha YZF-R125’s bloody good. The forks and shock have controlled damping which allows you to chuck the bike around back roads, but they’re not jarring on rough city streets.

Equipment

The Yamaha YZF-R125’s digital dash, Brembo brakes, under-slung GP-style exhaust and a proper sized R6-inspired body is the stuff of wet dreams when you’re 17. The full-size body makes it reasonably comfortable too – the footpegs aren’t too high, the handlebars are mounted on the fork tops so your wrists don’t take a pounding and the seat isn’t massively hard either. The seat is reasonably high though – shorties may be more comfortable on the Honda.

Quality and Reliability

The Yamaha YZF-R125 is built in Europe, and although it doesn’t have a top-level finish, it looks sturdy enough. Previous Yamaha/Minarelli engines have been strong, and there’s nothing to suggest this new water-cooled lump will be anything different.

Value

The Yamaha YZF-R125’s is a great introduction to sports bikes without the drawbacks of two-stroke rivals – but so is the Honda CBR125R for £300 less – if you pay RRP, which many don’t. The Yamaha is better suited to larger riders, is more composed when you thrash it and looks better, but otherwise they offer the same thing. It’s your decision whether it’s worth the extra.

Model History

2008: Yamaha YZF-R125 launched.

Other Versions

None.

Ducati-696-Monster-2008-Current

New price £5,500
Engine size 696cc
Power 67.5bhp
Top speed 128mph

Overall verdict

The new 696 Monster is Ducati’s most important bike, this is the bike that brings in the money and the sales, and thankfully it seems Ducati have got it spot on with the all new Monster. Thankfully they’ve not played around with the styling too much, and just improved the old bike as a package, in terms of engine performance and handling.

Engine

The cylinder head of the new Ducati 696 Monster is now very similar to the two valve 1100 Multistrada’s. Bore and stroke remain the same but Ducati have managed to squeeze out and extra 9% of power. Thankfully it’s not lost any of its character, and still sounds and feels like a Monster

Ride and Handling

The Ducati 696 Monster is still distinctively a Monster, and feels like the old bike on board, but it’s not an uncomfortable over stretch like the old bike. It still feels light and is easy to throw around. The understeer feeling of the old bike has been rectified and so has the poor ground clearance thanks to the new re-routed exhausts.

Equipment

The Ducati 696 Monster’s clutch is feather light and comes as a slipper clutch as standard. The Brembo radial brakes up front are powerful but still progressive and ideal for novice riders. However, only the shock is adjustable and for the price we’d expect fully adjustable suspension.

Quality and Reliability

As you’d expect from Ducati recently the level of finish on the Ducati 696 Monster is very high even on for a budget model. The engine has not changed too much and the old motor took a thrashing in its stride, as many engine actually ended up on race tracks. Keep the bike regularly serviced by a Ducati dealer and you shouldn’t have any problems.

Value

This is the new Ducati 696 Monster’s only downfall really. Yes, it’s cheap for a Ducati, you’re buying into a quality brand and fashionable brand, but the competition is considerably cheaper, bikes like the ER6 and SV650. If you are buying with your heart then you’ll go for the Italian but if money is tight you may as well go for one of the cheaper Japanese bikes.

Model History

2008: Ducati 696

Other Versions

Ducati 696 Monster Plus: Same sas Monster but with cowling and seat hump but at £5750.

Kawasaki 250R Ninja (2008-current)

New price £2,995
Engine size 249cc
Power 32.5bhp
Top speed 110mph

Overall verdict

The American market has been a big success for the Kawasaki Ninja 250 range for years and years and… But even the septics need a fresh brew every now and then and the Ninja 250R is the latest offering. Fortunately for 33bhp probationary riders in mainland Europe and the UK, we are getting the bike too, complete with emissions compliant fuel injection. A brave move by Kawasaki because the Ninja is virtually in a class of its own. Trend setting? Maybe.

Engine

A major overhaul of the old, forgotten about ZZ-R/GPX 250 engine has bought Kawasaki Ninja 250R bang up date by being environmentally friendly and as easy to use as a Raleigh bicycle. The Kawasaki Ninja 250R’s claimed 33bhp is spread thinner than gold plating – there’s no sensation of the power coming into play or fading as the motor spins to 14,000rpm so very quickly. Fuel injection does what it does precise and cleanly, which kinda sums up the motor.

Ride and Handling

The Kawasaki Ninja 250R is a lithesome agile number that makes the most of narrow tyres, high-ish bars and minimalist 154 dry weight figure. It all adds up to make town work and B-road rides a hoot – think slightly more powerful 125cc sports learner motorcycle and you’ll be spot on. The Kawasaki Ninja 250R’s suspension is perfectly suited to all but the worst of UK roads but lacks any damping adjustment, which is a blow on the rear side because the single rear shock needs more preload to keep the bike from getting all floaty and bottoming out. The standard tyres are for upright city use in our book.

Equipment

You wouldn’t know it, even looking at the Kawasaki Ninja 250R up real close, but it is manufactured in Taiwan under strict quality control. The gear linkage looks budget but is no worse than other manufacturer budget-line specials. The clocks are olde worlde analogue and there’s even a front wheel driven speedometer cable, which is novel. But the styling and dramatic black or corporate green paintwork is choice and the wave-style brake discs are ultra-cool… on a what is essentially a learner bike.

Quality and Reliability

Good marks here because the Kawasaki Ninja 250R is a good motorcycle – it works perfectly as a motorcycle, and works better as bike to gain confidence on. MCN’s only worry is what will the Kawasaki Ninja 250R be like after the 24 month probation period; a period of time where the bike will undoubtedly be hammered non-stop and (hopefully not) be treated much the same as a cheapy 125cc learner machine.

Value

You could do worse by buying a more powerful machine and getting it restricted especially if it’s a new bike where insurance costs will be horrific. Even a decent private-sale second-hand bike would be expensive and probably lose more money over the next 24 months.

Model History

2008: Model introduced.

Other Versions

None.

Kawasaki 250R Ninja (2008-current) - Mororcycle

New price £2,995
Engine size 249cc
Power 32.5bhp
Top speed 110mph

Overall verdict

The American market has been a big success for the Kawasaki Ninja 250 range for years and years and… But even the septics need a fresh brew every now and then and the Ninja 250R is the latest offering. Fortunately for 33bhp probationary riders in mainland Europe and the UK, we are getting the bike too, complete with emissions compliant fuel injection. A brave move by Kawasaki because the Ninja is virtually in a class of its own. Trend setting? Maybe.

Engine

A major overhaul of the old, forgotten about ZZ-R/GPX 250 engine has bought Kawasaki Ninja 250R bang up date by being environmentally friendly and as easy to use as a Raleigh bicycle. The Kawasaki Ninja 250R’s claimed 33bhp is spread thinner than gold plating – there’s no sensation of the power coming into play or fading as the motor spins to 14,000rpm so very quickly. Fuel injection does what it does precise and cleanly, which kinda sums up the motor.

Ride and Handling

The Kawasaki Ninja 250R is a lithesome agile number that makes the most of narrow tyres, high-ish bars and minimalist 154 dry weight figure. It all adds up to make town work and B-road rides a hoot – think slightly more powerful 125cc sports learner motorcycle and you’ll be spot on. The Kawasaki Ninja 250R’s suspension is perfectly suited to all but the worst of UK roads but lacks any damping adjustment, which is a blow on the rear side because the single rear shock needs more preload to keep the bike from getting all floaty and bottoming out. The standard tyres are for upright city use in our book.

Equipment

You wouldn’t know it, even looking at the Kawasaki Ninja 250R up real close, but it is manufactured in Taiwan under strict quality control. The gear linkage looks budget but is no worse than other manufacturer budget-line specials. The clocks are olde worlde analogue and there’s even a front wheel driven speedometer cable, which is novel. But the styling and dramatic black or corporate green paintwork is choice and the wave-style brake discs are ultra-cool… on a what is essentially a learner bike.

Quality and Reliability

Good marks here because the Kawasaki Ninja 250R is a good motorcycle – it works perfectly as a motorcycle, and works better as bike to gain confidence on. MCN’s only worry is what will the Kawasaki Ninja 250R be like after the 24 month probation period; a period of time where the bike will undoubtedly be hammered non-stop and (hopefully not) be treated much the same as a cheapy 125cc learner machine.

Value

You could do worse by buying a more powerful machine and getting it restricted especially if it’s a new bike where insurance costs will be horrific. Even a decent private-sale second-hand bike would be expensive and probably lose more money over the next 24 months.


Model History

2008: Model introduced.

Other Versions

None.

Yamaha YZF-R1 (2007-current) - Motorcycle

New price £8,999
Engine size 998cc
Power 187bhp
Top speed 182mph


Overall verdict

Yamaha’s latest R1 features new-found midrange drive from junking Yamaha’s tried and tested five-valve per cylinder in favour of the traditional four-valve set up, but at the same time installing some of the “bad boy” engine manners the original model was famed for. The chassis also gets updated by way of new frame, swingarm and suspension to make this latest Yamaha R1 a perfect road bike tool and the basis for a stonking trackday and superstock motorcycle.


Engine

The Yamaha R1 was never short of top end drive and that’s true of this latest version. What the latest Yamaha YZF1000-R1 does have though is a healthy dollop of midrange kick. Not that this will be a worry in the lower gears as the fly-by-wire system, linked to detailed ECU mapping, won’t deliver everything the rider asks for, instead giving what it thinks is best. Variable length inlet trumpets (worked by electronic motor at 10,400rpm) boosts midrange revs and props up top end poke – not just a gimmick, it actually works.

Ride and Handling

With race-like suspension front and rear, the standard set-up of this latest Yamaha R1 is just about right for dealing with everyday riding on UK roads. Turn the pace up (road or track) and there’s enough adjustment to suit every situation and riding style. Typically the R1 is a front end motorcycle, meaning that every road detail is felt through the bars and it drops into a turn as quick as you like. Race track manners along with road motorcycle stability takes some beating and believing, but it does both with style.

Equipment

As a leading sports bike/race replica, niceties of heated grips and shaver points simply don’t exist. The Yamaha R1's dash layout is spartan but effective; big tachometer face, gear shift light and LCD speedo are all you’ll really need. Yamaha has brought back six-piston brake calipers to fly in the face of four-pot fashion, but they work very, very effectively on the smaller-sized discs of the latest R1. The rear shock features high/low compression damping, which is good, as is the roomy seating position. Six-feet plus? Not a problem.

Quality and Reliability

As there are only three major motorcycle fastener suppliers in Japan –used by all the Japanese manufacturers – the old belief that Yamaha’s finish is inferior is complete rubbish nowadays. What is questionable is the bitty way certain panels of this latest Yamaha R1 are tacked on or used to cover areas eg the flimsy placcy bit covering the down pipes. Reliability shouldn’t be a problem as the Yamaha R1 hasn’t got a reputation for being a lemon.

Value

Yamaha’s pricing has always been strange: in 2005 the R1’s list price was £9k-plus, but then dropped to just over £8k in 2006. For 2007 the R1’s projected price will be around £8999, which (typically) is around £200 more than the competition. Value for money? Yamaha think so, as do previous Yamaha R1 customers.

Model History

1998: The very first YZF1000 R1.
2000: New titanium silencer, revised gearbox, modified carb, magnesium engine case covers, new bodywork and fuel tank, lighter chassis components, new suspension settings.
2002: Fuel injection now fitted along with catalytic converter and uprated ECU for more power. Revised frame and suspension and cosmetics.
2004: Full make-over for the Yamaha R1; new engine internals, underseat exhaust, sharper styled bodywork, more power, frame and suspension mods (longer swingarm in 2006).
2007: Launch of all-new Yamaha R1.

Other Versions

Yamaha R1-SP: 2006 limited edition with Ohlins suspension, Marachesini light weight wheels, and slipper-type clutch
Centenary: limited edition all-yellow model in 2005/2006.

Kawasaki ZX-6R (2007-current)

New price £7,190
Engine size 599cc
Power 110bhp
Top speed 164mph


Overall verdict

In the Kawasaki ZX-6R, Kawasaki has built a race ready 600 which is road legal, just. Everything about the ZX-6R is track focused, you could enter a standard Kawasaki ZX-6R into a club race and you wouldn’t be far behind the top runners. The more you thrash it the more fun you’ll have. The Kawasaki ZX-6R is easily the most fun 600 on track but let down by its real world capabilities.

Engine

A measured 109.61bhp at the back wheel made the Kawasaki ZX-6R the most powerful 600 in our recent group test. You have to keep the Kawasaki ZX-6R motor singing to get the most out of it above 9,000rpm ideally, but revving it to its 16,000rpm redline sends shivers down your spine.

Ride and Handling

The track-focussed Kawasaki ZX-6R is built for carving up race tracks. The brakes are outstanding, and the Kawasaki ZX-6R remains stable no matter how late you dare to brake. You can carry a stupid amount of corner speed on the Kawasaki ZX-6R, which is really confidence inspiring. The Kawasaki ZX-6R's front will give the odd twitch over bumps and imperfection on the road.

Equipment

The Kawasaki ZX-6R has fully adjustable suspension front and back, radial brakes up front... it ticks all the boxes for a 600 supersport machine. The standard slipper clutch is one of the best on the market something the Kawasaki ZX-6R has always led in term of development for the original ZX6-RR. Read reviews of parts for a Kawasaki ZX-6R.

Quality and Reliability

Kawasaki has never had a problem with engine reliability or build quality and the Kawasaki ZX-6R is no exception. An MCN staffer who owned one of the original high revving ZX6-RRs says it never missed a beat despite its hard life. The Kawasaki ZX-6R feels well built and solid with attention to detail in the finish.

Value

At £7190, the Kawasaki ZX-6R is the second cheapest 600 on the market and it’s a new model for 2007, only Suzuki’s older GSX-R is cheaper. Haggle with a local dealer and you should be able to steal a Kawasaki ZX-6R for under £7,000 which for the latest, track-focussed 600 which will hold its own against almost anything on track, is a bargain. Find Kawasaki ZX-6R motorcycles for sale.

Model History

2007: All new Kawasaki ZX-6R, now 599cc.

Other Versions

None (RR version discontinued now that Kawasaki ZX-6R is 599cc).

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Ducati Desmosedici RR (2007-current)

New price £40,000
Engine size 989cc
Power 200bhp
Top speed 190mph

overall verdict

There’s no other way to describe the Ducati Desmosedici RR than as a MotoGP bike with lights; it really is that close to the real thing. The 200bhp motorcycle is a replica of Ducati’s Desmosedici GP6 MotoGP machine, which Loris Capirossi and Sete Gibernau rode in the 2006 World Championship and features the same chassis layout, bodywork and ‘long bang’ 989cc V4 engine architecture. There has never been a road motorcycle like the Ducati Desmosedici RR and it’s so stiff, fast and focussed that it makes R1s seem soft and cuddly by comparison.

Engine

Although devilishly powerful the Ducati Desmosedici’s V4 motor is far more docile and user-friendly than you’d imagine. It makes power smoothly from nothing all the way to 13,800rpm, although as the motor spins past 10,000rpm the power starts to get very intense. There’s bucketfuls of grunt on tap too, so much so that you can go a gear higher though corners and it’ll still pull hard. Like one of Ducati’s V-twin engines, the Desmosedici is deceptively fast, not like a screaming in-line-four superbike, which feels twice as fast as it’s really going.

Ride and Handling

Unless you’re going to push the Ducati Desmosedici RR as hard as MotoGP rider can, you’re never going to get the best out of it. Such is the stiffness of the chassis that there’s very little feel from the Desmosedici RR even at fast racetrack speeds, although you get more feel as you start to push harder. On the road the Desmosedici is going to be a waste. Where a 1098 or R1 will flatter you with its user-friendly nature the Ducati is quick to tell you that you’re not good enough to ride it. It is the best handling road motorcycle ever built; you just need to be Casey Stoner to appreciate it.

Equipment

The Ducati Desmosedici RR is built like a MotoGP bike so it’s dripping with exotic parts. The Desmodromic motor is packed with titanium, specially coated alloys and magnesium. The fairing, mudguard, heel guards, fairing bracket are all from carbon fibre and the exhaust heat shield is from a carbon/ceramic composite. The LCD display is the same as the GP7 MotoGP motorcycle and like the 1098 it comes with a datalogging facility. Marchesini wheels are forged magnesium and the rear is shod with a special 16-inch Bridgestone BT-01R tyre. The Brembo front brake set-up is the same as the wet set-up Ducati use in MotoGP and the front brake span adjuster is on the left handlebar for easy reach. The list goes on…

Quality and Reliability

Like the MotoGP machine the Ducati Desmosedici RR is built to an exquisite level of quality; there’s simply nothing you can buy that comes close. Unlike the race bike the Desmosedici RR actually comes with a three-year warrantee and three-years free servicing, which is an astonishing feat from Ducati.

Value

£40,000 is a lot of money for a motorcycle but the Ducati Desmosedici RR more than justifies its price tag; Ducati could sell it for a lot more and it would still be worth it. If you could imagine how much a car would cost that was this close to a racing machine? Probably millions, if it could ever happen, which it never would or could. Even if the Desmosedici didn’t run, the way it’s built alone would justify its price tag; the fact that it’s faster and better handling than any production sports bike ever built makes it the deal of the century.

Model History

2007: Ducati Desmosedici RR launched.

Kawasaki ZX-10R (2008-current)

New price £8,950
Engine size 998cc
Power 185.4bhp
Top speed 186mph

Overall verdict

The new Kawasaki ZX-10R scores an easy five out of five; it surely must be the fastest production 1000cc bike of the current crop. But this ZX-10R is not all about Kawasaki’s new blistering engine and head-banging attitude, it’s controllable and handles much better than the previous ZX-10R and despite the blistering pace is actually easier to ride. Not for the faint hearted, the new ZX-10R is a true superbike for the road.

Engine

If you want torque and bottom end power then look away now. However if you want arm ripping acceleration and a 1000cc engine that seems to rev like a 600 you’ll be wanting the all-new ZX-10R. Kawasaki is quoting nearly 200bhp with ram air, more than last year’s bike which was never a slow bike.

Ride and Handling

Even though the latest Kawasaki ZX-10R is actually heavier than last year, it doesn’t feel it. The shape of the motorcycle is much thinner which makes the bike feel lighter and more manoveable. Its wheelbase has been increased and the rake has been stretched which adds stability, yet the ZX-10R still turns with ease. However, make sure that steering damper is turned up.

Equipment

Kawasaki was the first manufacturer to fit a back torque limiter or slipper clutch, and it’s the same again for the new ZX-10R. There’s also radial brakes, petal discs, fully adjustable suspension front and rear and an Ohlins steering damper as standard. Also, don’t forget Kawasaki new Kawasaki Ignition Management system, which is designed to reduce wheel spin under extreme circumstances.

Quality and Reliability

As the latest ZX-10R is brand new, it’s near impossible to comment on the motorcycle’s reliability. However there haven’t been any problems with previous models, and Kawasaki engines are generally regarded as bullet proof. On face value there is high level of quality materials used and recent high mileage Kawasakis we’ve ran on the MCN fleet have coped with everything, even a few freezing salt ridden winters.

Value

The new Kawasaki ZX-10R is competitively priced, looks the part and on first impressions from the launch looks like its going to be the fastest 1000cc sports motorcycle out there. So if you want the fastest you are going to have to pay the price. Still you can always sleep with peace of mind, as build quality is now a match for the Honda and second hand prices shouldn’t plummet, depending on its bad boy reputation.

Model History

2008: All-new model launched.

Ducati 1098R (2008-current)

New price £24,000
Engine size 1198cc
Power 180bhp
Top speed 185mph

Overall verdict

Ducati is back to its decadent best with the exotic, reassuringly expensive new 1098R. Built in limited numbers so the Italian firm can race it WSB, the 1098R forms the basis of their F08 factory racer. In fact, never has the road bike and the racer been so close, thanks to ever tightening rules in the World Championship. Aside from different pistons and a smattering of detail changes the 1099R is exactly the same as the bike Troy Bayliss will ride this year. The 1098R is incredibly rapid, thanks to its new 1200cc engine, and its party piece is its full traction control system, the first time such a system has ever been fitted to a road bike. The DTC (Ducati Traction Control) is just like one used on Ducati’s factory Superbike and MotoGP machine.

Engine

What a masterpiece! Compared to the 1098, the engine is lighter, stronger and has a bigger bore and stroke, taking the capacity up to 1198.4cc, bang on the WSB limit for twin-cylinder machines. Peak power is 180bhp, which rises to 186bhp with the carbon fibre racing Termis and race ECU fitted (supplied). This makes the 1098R the most powerful production V-twin ever produced. Torque is a staggering 99.1ftlb, which gives the Ducati the best torque to weight ratio of any road bike. Compared to the standard 1098 or 1098S the ‘R’ is an animal. It’s almost impossible to keep the front wheel on the floor in the first three gears and it keeps on pulling hard for as long as the road or track allows. Throttle response from the twin-injector fuel-injection system is perfect.

Ride and Handling

With its new fully adjustable TTX twin-tube Ohlins rear shock and 43mm forks the Ducati’s ride quality is superb. The suspension action is plush while still offering up lots of control when the tyres are loaded up during cornering, acceleration and braking. The riding position is unapologetically racy with high-set pegs and low clip-ons, the slim-line fuel tank helps you move around the bike with ease on track, but doesn’t give you anything to grip onto when the ferocious Monobloc Brembo radial caliper brakes are applied. You just have to hang on for dear life.

Equipment

Loaded with all the usual goodies you expect from a limited edition Ducati, the 1098R comes with a carbon bellypan, tank infils and front mudguard. There’s the Ohlins suspension and steering damper, Marchesini forged aluminium wheels, single-sided swingarm, an on-board datalogging system, MotoGP replica dash…the list goes on. The piece de resistance, of course is the traction control system. With the race pipes and ECU fitted the traction control is enabled and you’ve got eight modes to choose from. On setting ‘eight’ there’s full-on traction and on number ‘one’ the system allows a fair degree of wheelspin. We tried the system on the track at the launch in Jerez and was blown away with how good it was. Once the system kicks in the ignition retards and it feels like you’ve run into a rev-limiter. On the number ‘eight’ setting we reckon it would be impossible to highside!

Quality and Reliability

This is a limited edition motorcycle built to racing standards, so build quality is beyond question. Remarkably it has the same service intervals as the standard 1098, which, thanks to the increase of the quality and reliability of components is far longer than the old 999 and 916-range of bikes.

Value

£24,000 for a motorcycle can never be called good value for money, but in a way it is. The 1098R represents the most technologically advanced sportsbikes ever built and most importantly serves the role of bedroom wall dream bike. Not since the demise of the old 998R has a Ducati been so lusted after, until now, because riding the 1098R is every bit as good as you dream it would be. A truly sensational machine.

Model History

2008: Ducati 1098R launched.

Suzuki GSX-R1000 Motorcycle

New price £8,799
Used price range £2,200-3,975
Engine size 999cc
Power 176bhp
Top speed 186mph

Overall verdict

The first Suzuki GSX-R1000 set new superbike standards in 2001, the second one did it again in 2003 and this, the third full Suzuki GSX-R1000 update, went straight back to the top of the superbike tree in 2005 and stayed there, pretty much ever since. The reasons for the Suzuki GSX-R1000's dominance are simple. Sublime, lithe ergonomics and handling, radical styling and full-on usable power.

Engine

Under pressure from its rivals, the Suzuki GSX-R1000's capacity was raised from 989cc to a full 999cc. The result is a claimed 175bhp at the crank – putting the Suzuki GSX-R1000 on a par with the competition on paper but in truth giving the bike an advantage as Suzuki horses are often more muscular than those of other manufacturers when it comes to a dyno shoot-out. If you want the boss, the Suzuki GSX-R1000, pretty much, is it.

Ride and Handling

The all-new chassis was designed to bring as much weight as possible together in the middle of the Suzuki GSX-R1000 but Suzuki also decided to move the weight down, making the centre of gravity as low as possible. The result is that the Suzuki GSX-R1000 boasts fantastically sharp steering and ‘flickability’ without any significant trade off in stability.

Equipment

The K5/K6 Suzuki GSX-R1000 is standard fare, early 21st century kick-ass superbike. Neat alloy controls (pegs, bars, levers) dainty but comprehensive instrumentation and, er, not a lot else. When it comes to cutting-edge speed, less is always more… as the Suzuki GSX-R1000 demonstrates.

Quality and Reliability

Fair enough. Suzuki’s top end bikes are better than most if looked after (although you have to fastidiously clean them through winter) and there have been no major reliability issues with the Suzuki GSX-R1000.

Value

The Suzuki GSX-R1000 is cheaper than a Fireblade and still, arguably, the best superbike most of the time. Due a replacement in 2007 so plenty of discounts are currently available. The Suzuki GSX-R1000 costa a lot of money, but you get an awful lot of bike for that money.

Model History

2005: Suzuki GSX-R1000 K5 launched available in black/grey, blue/white or yellow/black colourschemes.
2006: Suzuki GSX-R1000 K6. Colour changes only, now in black or red/black.

Other Versions

Limited Edition all-black Suzuki GSX-R1000 launched in 2005.
Suzuki GSX-R1000 Phantom. Road legal Yoshimura silencer and special black/silver paintscheme launched in 2006.

Honda CB1300S Motocycle

New price £6,999
Engine size 1284cc
Power 113bhp
Top speed 136mph

Overall verdict

Classic early superbike lines crash head-on with a practical top fairing and an inexpensive ABS option to make the Honda CB1300S a competent tourer-cum-commuter that’s a pleasure to ride with above average handling, plenty of practical touches and a low seat height. Read any Honda CB1300S review and you'll find nothing but praise for the way the Honda CB1300S gets you from A to B with minimal fuss.

Engine

The Honda CB1300S's powerplant is based on the old CBR1000, this 16-valve, 1284cc DOHC motor feels unstressed and lazily powerful enough to get by on just the top two gears. The fuel-injection on the Honda CB1300S is smooth (smoother than the naked version thanks to an improved 32-bit processor just like the whiz-bang Honda CBR600RR) and snatch-free.

Ride and Handling

Heavier riders who like to ‘press on’ might find the Honda CB1300S's suspension running out of ideas quickly, but for the average rider the set-up works well. For a more relaxed ride the Honda CB1300S's bar riders can be rotated through 180-degrees to shift the bars forwards by 20mm. The Honda CB1300S's four-piston Nissin brakes are superb, with plenty of feel and power.

Equipment

The Honda CB1300S clocks are amazingly comprehensive, with even a function to remind you of birthdays and anniversaries! A HISS ignition immobiliser can be backed up by an official Honda CB1300S U-lock and alarm. ABS is an inexpensive option for the Honda CB1300S at just £100.

Quality and Reliability

The Honda CB1300S is nicely built, with a stainless steel exhaust to help ward off the worst of the British winter. The Honda CB1300S paint’s thick, too, but keep the fork legs free of winter salt or they quickly develop a nasty case of psoriasis.

Value

New or used the Honda CB1300S represents a whole lot of bike for your money. Secondhand Honda CB1300S prices are stable and owners tend to be considerate owners who pamper their machines.

Model History

2003: Naked Honda CB1300 introduced.
2004: Faired Honda CB1300S version launched.

Other Versions

Honda CB1300: Naked version.

BMW F800GS Motorcycle

New price £6,695
Engine size 798cc
Power 85bhp
Top speed 130mph

Overall verdict

BMW's new F800GS is virtually unique: a 750/800 class adventure bike, that to most degrees offers the best of both worlds. It’s light, slim and perky enough to be a credible off-roader yet it’s also substantial, grunty, roomy and potentially sufficiently well equipped to tackle crossing continents. It’s also got a price that’s hugely tempting too.

Engine

Derived from the F800S unit, but with a more upright block, the BM parallel twin is intoxicatingly invigorating. 85 horses might not sound like much, but its more than enough. It’s perky and fruity, has a deliciously raspy exhaust note and is responsive, progressive and yet yearns for more and more revs up to the redline. Wring its neck and duck yours behind the reasonable screen and you’ll see 125mph, which is more than ample, thankyou. The rest of time it just delivers what and when you want it.


Ride and Handling

Unlike the 1200GS the 800’s no monster. Though tall and ‘proper’ the 800GS is lithe, slim and light, enough to both remind of conventional, single cylinder enduros, from, say KTM, and to make it a doddle, at least compared to the 1200, to manhandle and manouvere, thanks to masses of steering lock, decent suspension, lightness and assured weight distribution.

Equipment

Being a BMW the F800GS's fairly basic standard but with the usual myriad of accessories and factory fitted options available. Different seats, screens and bars are available; as are the usual sophisticated luggage systems plus creature comforts like sat nav, heated grips and the like.

Quality and Reliability

BMW rules again. Although there have been occasional hiccups in recent years, there should be little to worry about with the new F800GS. The F800S/ST upon which it’s based has proved mechanically reliable and solid and the engineering is proven. Unusually, for a BMW though, you’ll have to maintain a drivechain.

Value

At £6999 the price is possibly the new GS’s biggest trump card of all. That represents fabulous value compared to the £2000 dearer 1200 version and there really is nothing else close to it in terms of all round ability. But if you want better value still, got for the in many ways identical £5495 F650GS.

Model History

2008: BMW F800GS launched.

KTM RC8 (2008-current)

Overall verdict

The KTM RC8 is the revelation of 2008… even though we’ve known it’s been coming for four years. Perhaps we should’ve given KTM more credit because all their machines (on and off-road) to date are superb. Nonetheless the RC8 is simply stunning and for all the right reasons. Its engine is powerful and usable; handling shames Japanese and Italian superbikes; looks totally different to the norm but is, oh so appealing.

Engine

KTM claims 150bhp from its own designed and built V-twin. Whatever the final figure delivered at the rear wheel is it’s ample for 99% of riders. The torque curve is flat and juicy with power at the top end of the rev scale. There weren’t any signs of erratic fuelling on the bikes MCN rode and no sign of missed gears – although some launch bikes were reported as suffering from both faults. MCN’s first ride on the RC8 rates the engine as one of the best V-twins on the market today.


Ride and Handling

Another high point of the KTM RC8 is the clever use of WP Suspension front and rear. Four years of development with the RC8 project has lead to comfortable suspension for the road, and race-like action with just a few simple tweaks of the suspension’s easy reach adjusters. The RC8 steers like a whippet on a sugar rush but this quick steering doesn’t translate into instability, far from it. The RC8’s premier level of handling will flatter any riding style and is only one of two bikes available today that will anyone to ride proper fast so very easily.


Equipment

Ultra-modern WP Suspension. Complete adjustability of footpeg and handlebar controls. Easy to get out rear ride height adjuster. MotoGP dash that can be toggled between road and track applications and worked via a bar-mounted control. Rear subframe adjustable for height… and the detailing goes on.


Quality and Reliability

Every component part, be it plastic, metal or other, fits so perfectly and looks to have been made by redundant Swiss watch makers. Reliability shouldn’t be an issue as the motor is based on the already successful 990cc LC8 engine powering the Super Duke and SM models


Value

One point lost here because the £10,695 asking price drops the RC8 midway between Japanese 4-cylinder superbikes and Ducati’s 1098 exotica. If KTM had pitched the price closer to the Japanese, its proposed R version of the RC8 would be cheaper and, arguably, steal some of Ducati’s 1098S and 1098R sales.


Model History

2008: KTM RC8 launched

Other Versions

None

New price £10,695
Engine size 1148cc
Power 152.2bhp
Top speed 178mph

Suzuki GSX-R1000 (2005-2006)

Overall verdict

The first Suzuki GSX-R1000 set new superbike standards in 2001, the second one did it again in 2003 and this, the third full Suzuki GSX-R1000 update, went straight back to the top of the superbike tree in 2005 and stayed there, pretty much ever since. The reasons for the Suzuki GSX-R1000's dominance are simple. Sublime, lithe ergonomics and handling, radical styling and full-on usable power.

Engine

Under pressure from its rivals, the Suzuki GSX-R1000's capacity was raised from 989cc to a full 999cc. The result is a claimed 175bhp at the crank – putting the Suzuki GSX-R1000 on a par with the competition on paper but in truth giving the bike an advantage as Suzuki horses are often more muscular than those of other manufacturers when it comes to a dyno shoot-out. If you want the boss, the Suzuki GSX-R1000, pretty much, is it.

Ride and Handling

The all-new chassis was designed to bring as much weight as possible together in the middle of the Suzuki GSX-R1000 but Suzuki also decided to move the weight down, making the centre of gravity as low as possible. The result is that the Suzuki GSX-R1000 boasts fantastically sharp steering and ‘flickability’ without any significant trade off in stability.


Equipment

The K5/K6 Suzuki GSX-R1000 is standard fare, early 21st century kick-ass superbike. Neat alloy controls (pegs, bars, levers) dainty but comprehensive instrumentation and, er, not a lot else. When it comes to cutting-edge speed, less is always more… as the Suzuki GSX-R1000 demonstrates.


Quality and Reliability

Fair enough. Suzuki’s top end bikes are better than most if looked after (although you have to fastidiously clean them through winter) and there have been no major reliability issues with the Suzuki GSX-R1000.


Value

The Suzuki GSX-R1000 is cheaper than a Fireblade and still, arguably, the best superbike most of the time. Due a replacement in 2007 so plenty of discounts are currently available. The Suzuki GSX-R1000 costa a lot of money, but you get an awful lot of bike for that money. Find Suzuki GSX-R1000 motorcycles for sale.

Model History

2005: Suzuki GSX-R1000 K5 launched available in black/grey, blue/white or yellow/black colourschemes.
2006: Suzuki GSX-R1000 K6. Colour changes only, now in black or red/black.


Other Versions

Limited Edition all-black Suzuki GSX-R1000 launched in 2005.
Suzuki GSX-R1000 Phantom. Road legal Yoshimura silencer and special black/silver paintscheme launched in 2006.

New price £8,799
Used price range £2,200-3,975

Engine size 999cc
Power 176bhp
Top speed 186mph