2013 Honda CBR600RR: A Sportbike For Any Rider

Want to feel like you could be winning a professional motorsports race every time you hit the pavement? The need for speed can take over any well-meaning rider, and when it does, sometimes the only thing that can solve the problem is a sportbike. The 2013 Honda CBR600RR is one machine that can help satisfy that racing desire.

Engine And Chassis

The 2013 Honda CBR600RR has the potential to work up enough speed to dominate a racetrack or roadway – Photo: Fran Kuhn

Powered by a 600cc liquid-cooled, four-cylinder engine, the 2013 Honda CBR600RR has the potential to work up enough speed to dominate a racetrack or roadway. The motor generates even more power thanks to a redesigned ram-air intake system that gives you a little more oomph on the track, along with a better throttle response when you reach higher rpms.

The body of the bike was inspired by MotoGP machines, so you’ll definitely feel as if you should be on the racetrack. Aerodynamic bodywork reduces drag while increasing efficiency, which allows you to get better mileage and handling thanks to improved wind deflection.

Other Features

The 2013 Honda CBR600RR comes equipped with a few upgraded features that make for a significantly improved riding experience. You can enjoy a smoother ride with the help of a new 41mm big piston fork front suspension, which is more responsive to the machine and keeps the internal pressure down. New 12-spoke wheels, LED tail lights and an electric steering damper are included to help the rider stay safe on the pavement.

A 4.8-gallon engine with a 0.9-gallon fuel reserve provides an adequate amount of gas to keep the machine on the road, and even with a full tank it only weights about 410 pounds. As a bonus, the tank is quite centrally located, giving you easy access to the heart of the bike while also centering the weight.

Final Thoughts – Not Bad … For A Sportbike

The 2013 Honda CBR600RR is available, for the first time ever, in official Repsol racing colors – Photo: Mark McIntyre

I may have outgrown my affinity for sportbikes, but the 2013 Honda CBR600RR is sleek enough to at least have me considering a move back. If you’re into high speeds and stylish exteriors, this may be the machine for you. It’s available in solid red; red, white and blue; and, for the first time ever, official Repsol racing colors. There’s also an array of special racing accessories that can kick the bike up a notch, giving riders the chance to have racing kits, covers and motorcycle gear that they may not have been able to pull off on other sportbikes.

The 2013 Honda CBR600RR follows in the tradition of its predecessors and provides a championship-level sportbike with real-world capabilities. With a long life span, refined exterior and a lot of potential, this Honda motorcycle is a thrilling machine for any speed demon.

2013 Honda CBR600RR Image Gallery

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2013 Yamaha V STAR 1300 Deluxe: The Total Package

Yamaha recently launched the 2013 version of the V STAR 1300 Deluxe, and it’s definitely a bike that should be known for its value. It packs on the special features and luxury style without sacrificing practicality – a concept that can be pretty hit or miss in the world of motorcycles. Yamaha hits the nail on the head, however, and the V Star 1300 Deluxe is definitely a bike to keep your eye on if you’re looking for a touring cruiser that will cause others to take notice.

Engine and Chassis

There’s not many new additions to the motor on the Yamaha V STAR 1300 Deluxe. It’s the same as the one found in predecessors like the V Star 1300 Tourer, and the manufacturer has decided to stick with the liquid-cooled, four-cylinder, V-Twin engine that it knows works well. The sheer power of the motor and its 1,304cc displacement is tamed a bit by the hydraulic cam chain tensioner, which significantly cuts down on noise to make for a pleasant experience for riders and other motorists.

The engine, oil filter and other essential parts are hidden from sight by the double-cradle steel bike frame. Excellent handling is the norm thanks to four engine mounts, and a single linkage-mounted shock absorber is on hand in case you get a little too excited while cruising.

Other Specs

Riders can stay on the roads for as long as they want with the help of a 4.9-gallon fuel tank and a low maintenance belt that increases efficiency. Storage compartments with 15.2 total gallons of space make long trips a breeze, and you’ll have no problem staying on the machine for hours on end thanks to the roomy rider floorboards and adjustable seats.

The Bottom Line

One of the best things about the 2013 V STAR 1300 Deluxe is its appearance. Signature detailing and chrome accents are certainly eye-catching, and they’re set off by the crisp blue paint job. The handlebars give the bike a retro feel – a concept that is carried through to the bar-mounted instruments – but there are plenty of other state-of-the-art additions that make the bike a modern machine. GPS navigation and an iPod docking station provide directions and entertainment, as well as weather and traffic reports, while Bluetooth capabilities and convenient controls make handling all of the new technology easy.

2013 Yamaha V Star 1300 Deluxe Image Gallery

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2013 Honda NC700X: A Jack-Of-All-Trades Machine

In this day and age, it’s rare to find a motorcycle that can provide everything you need in one single machine. Whereas many of today’s creations are customized to perform well in specific situations, very few bikes offer the flexibility most riders need and want. That is, until you get to the 2013 Honda NC700X. This machine is perfectly capable of being a great commuting bike while also lending itself to adventure touring on any kind of road.

Power and Design

The 2013 Honda NC700X is perfectly capable of being a great commuting bike while also lending itself to touring on any kind of road – Photo: Fran Kuhn

The engine behind this impressive bike is a parallel-twin, liquid-cooled motor with a 670cc displacement. You get plenty of power to propel the relatively light machine – it’s about 505 pounds with a full tank – through any environment.

Even with so much power, the machine doesn’t sacrifice any handling or agility. The cylinders in the engine have been angled forward to improve the weight distribution, and the cast aluminum wheels measure in at 17 inches and anchor the diamond-shaped steel frame. Although the chassis is rigid and compact, it has been designed to give you a comfortable riding position and plenty of space, so you won’t even realize you’re on a smaller bike until you see how expertly you can maneuver around in tight places.

Features That Hold Up

One of things you’ll love best about the NC700X is the 41mm front forks. These allow the bike to find great middle ground between commuting bikes and traditional touring machines, providing just less than 6 inches of travel.

Another addition that shouldn’t be overlooked is the optional DCT (automatic dual-clutch transmission). You can shift gears with the push of a button on the handlebar, and the gearbox even boasts a special function that learns your patterns as you ride, making it easier to shift and extend the longevity of the machine.

Final Thoughts

The storage area is located where the gas tank is normally found, giving you easy access to your possessions.

Planning on being on the road for an extended period of time? The 2013 Honda NC700X has you covered. With locking, watertight compartments and a 3.7-gallon fuel tank, you’ll be able to take full advantage of the 60-plus miles to the gallon that the machine gets. As a bonus, the storage area is located where the gas tank is normally found while the fuel is under the seat, giving you easy access to your possessions and keeping them in a secure place.

Of course, with the way this Honda motorcycle rides, you’re not going to want to end your trip very quickly. Whether you’re going down the street to the grocery store or embarking on hundreds of miles of trips, you can enjoy the power, agility and style of the 2013 Honda NC700X.

2013 Honda NC700X Image Gallery

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2013 Harley-Davidson Road King: A Modern Twist On An Old-Fashioned Bike

When it comes to motorcycles, I always appreciate a nod to tradition. That’s why I’ve always really liked the Harley-Davidson Road King. Since its initial release nearly 20 years ago, enthusiasts and purist have loved the Road King’s classic styling cues which reflect back on the MoCo’s heritage. And what a long heritage it has been, 110 years to be exact. To help celebrate such a remarkable milestone, for the 2013 model lineup Harley released a collection of select Anniversary models with the 2013 Road King being one of them.

Highlights of the Anniversary edition King include a serialized exclusive Anniversary Vintage Bronze/Anniversary Vintage Black paint scheme accented by solid bronze 110th anniversary tank medallions, air cleaner cover trim ring, a chrome-plated timer cover with cloisonné insert, and chrome-plated derby cover with forged solid bronze trim ring. This motorcycle is a mix of the signature styling Road King fans are accustomed to but with the exclusivity of a very limited production.

Engine

Harley-Davidson continually increases its engine displacement and last year the majority of the OE Big Twin lineup (Softail, Touring, and most of the Dyna models) finally crested the century mark with the 103ci (1,690cc) Twin Cam engine. Those coming off the 96ci TC mill or are new to Harley will definitely like the performance of the triple-digit engine when riding with a passenger, as the bike requires noticeably less effort to move about. The air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin engine boasts 100 foot-pounds of torque at 3,250 rpm, providing enough power for riders of all skill levels. While it may not be as powerful as some of its competitors, it’s got more than enough power to get riders cruising down the road easily and with a smile.

Other Features

The Cruise-Drive six-speed transmission aims to give riders a perfect balance between engine turnover and road speed, allowing them to transition through the gears with ease and make the most of the their time on the road. Full-length footboards, air-adjustable rear suspension, wide-set handlebars, a detachable windshield, and a two-person seat are all standard features that come together to create a superior riding experience.

To set off this classic and comfortable design, the 2013 Anniversary Road King (along with the other Anniversary models) comes with all available factory-installed options as standard equipment. For the Road King that means, the Security Package Option with factory-installed Harley-Davidson Smart Security with hands-free fob, anti-lock brakes (ABS), and electronic cruise control.

Final Thoughts – Bow Down Before The King

Touring can be pumped up to the next level thanks to cruise control, which uses electronic throttle control technology to eliminate the need for wires or cable cluttering the handlebars. The rest of the features aim to improve the ease of riding as well. Self-canceling turn signals use the speed and angle of the bike to determine when they’re needed, an output accessory connector is available to charge electronic devices and gear, and the security system is enabled with smart tools to maximize protection.

The bottom line is the 2013 Anniversary Edition Harley-Davidson Road King is a special bike that will catch the attention of the traditionalist as well those who like to stand apart from the majority. And with the exclusivity of this model people can do just that. On the other hand if you’re not one for special themed or limited edition bikes, you can pick up one of the regular OE Road Kings, available in several fresh paint schemes/colors for 2013.

2013 Harley-Davidson Road King Image Gallery

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2013 Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS Adventure: An Impressive Adventure Touring Bike

The 2013 Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS Adventure may be a mouthful to say, but it’s a joy to ride. For more than a decade, Suzuki has been producing models of this adventure motorcycle to wide acclaim. Its newest version may be the best yet, as a dazzling new look goes along with updated features, a powerful engine and supreme agility to create an excellent bike any motorcycle fan can appreciate.

This dual-sport adventure bike, while more of a street bike than anything else, is a unique machine capable of providing owners with a truly special riding experience.

Engine and Chassis

The engine for the 2013 Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS Adventure, complete with an engine bar

The V-Twin engine utilizes a displacement of 645cc and high rpm range power surges to keep riders cruising along on the road. High mileage and range are functions of the four-stroke, liquid-cooled motor, which also comes with an improved clutch and gearshift that are aimed at bettering the feel while cutting down on noise.

Compared to some previous V-Strom models, the 2013 version is slimmer and more compact. It’s made from a lightweight alloy that easily speeds across any terrain, yet is strong enough to handle obstacles you may encounter along the way.

Features and Extras

A six-speed transmission allows riders to smoothly handle all kinds of trails and roads. Cruising can be done easily when in the top gear, while the remaining gears are aimed at creating a tight, sporty ride.

Riders who want to be able to stay on the road four hours at a time will appreciate the five-gallon fuel tank and an adjustable, protective touring windscreen, which can aid those on longer trips. Top-loading aluminum side cases are also helpful for owners who want to pack their bags for serious adventure riding.

Final Thoughts – Are You Ready For An Adventure?

Camping with the 2013 Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS, an adventure waiting to happen.

Ultimately, the 2013 Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS Adventure is a bike that’s great for riding in any situation. A weight reduction frame, new engine and assortment of top features ensure the machine can be used by any type of motorist, and as you learn the ins and outs of the Suzuki motorcycle, you can improve the handling and performance.

The dual-purpose motorcycle is also available as a standard V-Strom 650 ABS, which comes without bags, crash guards and the windscreen. That is still a quality machine, but is missing some of the features that make this model a superior Adventure machine.

2013 Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS Adventure Image Gallery

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BMW K1200GT: A Good Used Option For Luxury Riders

BMW is known for offering comfort and luxury in its automobiles as well as its motorcycles, but with the high-end models there is also a high price tag. This might put a new BMW tourer just out of your price range, but that doesn’t mean you have to settle for another brand if your heart is set on a German-made bike. Searching for previously-owned models can be a great way to find the BMW motorcycle you want without having to hand over your life savings. There are plenty of models to choose from but the K1200GT could be best if you’re in the market for a fun, fancy sport-touring motorcycle.

Impressive Performance

BMW manufactured the K1200GT from 2002 to 2008, so you have many options to get the right model. The bikes made between 2002 and 2005 were equipped with 1171cc longitudinal inline-four crank engines, but those manufactured from 06 to 08 had 1157cc traverse inline-fours that were a bit more powerful than the predecessors. Aside from this, both generations of the K1200GT are top performing bikes that offer responsive handling as well as a number of features that make the bike stand out from the competition.

Features And Optional Accessories

First and foremost, the K1200GT is comfortable. It’s built for riding long distances, and there is even a little bit of wiggle room to adjust the seat and handlebar height. BMW also took things to the next level of luxury with options like heated seats, a built-in GPS system and an electronic suspension adjustment (ESA) that was offered on the 2006-2008 models. The ESA allows you to switch between normal, comfort and sport modes at the touch of a button, so you don’t have to worry about having the wrong settings when you turn off the highway onto a more rural road. The K1200GT has plenty of storage options, from built in compartments to detachable saddlebags, so you can bring along everything you’ll need for a long journey or a day trip to the beach.

Final Thoughts

When they were new, BMW’s K1200GT models cost between $17,000 and $19,000, but now you can find older models for under $10,000 and newer versions that sell for well below the asking price as well. One of the best benefits of shopping for used motorcycles is that you can find models that already have all the extra features added on and included in the price. If you were to buy it new, each additional perk would increase the overall price of the bike.

BMW K1200GT Image Gallery

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2013 Moto Guzzi California 1400 Custom: Make Way For The New King

The motorsports world has been abuzz with news and rumors about the new 2013 Moto Guzzi California 1400 Touring and 2013 Moto Guzzi California 1400 Custom, these machines are the hottest thing on the market.

While it was only recently released to the public, I got a chance to test ride the 2013 Moto Guzzi California 1400 Custom – and it definitely struck a chord. The motorcycle is a prime example of a great cruising bike should be, and riders who are searching for their next investment may want to take a serious look at the latest debut from Moto Guzzi.

Engine and Chassis – Deceptive Power

At first glance, the machine may not look like one that gets up to blistering speeds. Weighing in at nearly 700 pounds, the 2013 Moto Guzzi California 1400 Custom is a large bike that has plenty of space for riders to stay comfortable. Its traditional Italian style makes the machine feel sleek and stylish, and almost every motorcycle enthusiast will appreciate the classic design and excellent craftsmanship that make the bike great.

The chassis houses the largest engine Moto Guzzi has yet to build. Its V-Twin, four-stroke, double ignition motor is both air- and liquid-cooled and is among the most powerful on the market today. With a displacement of 1,400cc’s, the engine provides a lot of power and is more than capable of handling high speeds or heavy traffic.

Other Top Features

A superior cruise control system and ride-by-wire technology help motorists make the most of their time on the road. The custom is a bit better than its Touring counterpart in this regard, as it does have slightly tighter handling. The 2013 Moto Guzzi California 1400 Custom’s fuel tank holds just under 5.5 gallons, so riders will be able to spend hours on the roads enjoying the machine. Large footboards are present on both the Touring and Custom, enabling riders and their passengers to stay comfortable – and on the bike – for a long time.

Final Thoughts – A New Leading Motorcycle

Almost every feature of the 2013 Moto Guzzi California 1400 Custom sets it apart from the pack. The cruising motorcycle has excellent drag bar handlebars, a sport saddle and a front end that is complete with a 46mm fork. You’ll feel stable yet agile at the same time – a rare feat for such a large bike. Between the special features, handling and impressive exterior, riders will be jumping to get this new bike.

2013 Moto Guzzi California 1400 Custom Image Gallery

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2013 Moto Guzzi California 1400 Touring: A New Twist On An Old Classic

The motorsports world has been abuzz with news and rumors about the new 2013 Moto Guzzi California 1400. Available in two separate models, Custom and Touring, the machine is the hottest thing on the market. I’ll be taking a look at the Touring model here, but keep an eye out for my next review in this series, covering the Custom model.

Although the most recent Moto Guzzi California 1400 Touring to come from the Italian bike manufacturer has the same overall styling as the original 1971 model, there are quite a few features that set the 2013 model apart from its predecessors. Moto Guzzi only produces a few thousand bikes each year, as every model is hand-built to ensure it will be of the highest quality, and the 2013 California is no different.

Modern Design Doesn’t Skimp On Tradition

The new California emulates the original model, with its low-profile handlebars, two-tone seat and rear saddlebag storage. The twin panniers are not removable from the bike, and although they haven 11.8-gallon storage space, they are not designed to fit a helmet. However, the design is far more modern and sleek than the vintage bike. The teardrop gas tank and chrome-plated headlights are two examples that set this bike apart from its former image. Plus, this modern marvel lets you convert your iPhone into a dashboard, so you can access things like navigation, performance and technical data through the companion app. This feature certainly puts the California in a class of its own, even among modern-day competitors.

Technical Specs That Wow The Crowd

Even though this masterpiece could please the crowd on looks alone, it certainly doesn’t hurt that it comes with a 1380cc air-cooled engine. This massive motor generates up to 96 horsepower and 88 foot-pounds of torque, giving it an aggressive side that most touring models lack. This is one aspect of the bike that wasn’t overly modernized, as it is powered by a longitudinal crankshaft and idles at around 1400 RPMs. Such a boisterous engine might cause a lot of vibrations, but Moto Guzzi designers anticipated this and constructed a unique system to muffle some of these vibrations. The “elastic engine” system relies on rubber mounts and three rocker arms to keep the motor from making the whole bike shimmy and shake as it sits in its twin-cradle steel frame.

A Smooth Ride Only Adds To The Class

As if owning a hand-built bike wasn’t enough, riders can also brag about the smooth handling and easy maneuverability of this 743-pound beast of a motorcycle. In fact, controlling the bike is a near-effortless experience thanks to large wheels, a ride-by-wire throttle and a dynamic suspension system. This lets the rider feel comfortable cruising around at lower speeds, but all bets are off when the bikes opens up on the highway and takes advantage of all that power.

2013 Moto Guzzi California 1400 Touring Image Gallery

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2013 Triumph Street Triple R: An Unrivaled Thrill On The Open Road

There are many sport bikes and roadsters to choose from these days, but very few really stand out from the pack. The 2013 Triumph Street Triple R, however, does just that. It doesn’t look to be a very special bike at first glance, but what this ride lacks in looks it more than makes up for in performance and handling. I recently had the chance to test ride one of these bad boys, and they practically had to drag me off the bike. It was so much fun that I’m considering investing in one myself.

Plenty Of Power To Play With

The Street Triple R has a lightweight chassis that is 36 pounds lighter than the 2012 model, which makes it feel noticeably more nimble and responsive on the road. This is the first time Triumph has really made major changes to the bike since 2007, so it was about time for some upgrades. The latest model has a 675cc liquid-cooled 12-valve in-line three cylinder, which is where it gets the Triple in its name. This motor provides a modest 57 horsepower at 11,850 RPM, which isn’t a lot on paper. However, you won’t even remember the horses are not as plentiful as they are on other motorcycles when you ride this bike.

Lower Center Of Gravity Improves Handling

Thanks to a lower center of gravity, the Street Triple R feels firmly planted on the ground no matter how fast you’re going. It won’t wake the neighbors either, as the bike comes equipped with an under-engine silencer which keeps things running a bit more quietly. This feature is part of a 3 into 1 exhaust system that helps to bring down the center of gravity while also improving engine performance.

Brake Gear Improves Safety

The street bike also features four-piston brakes that are made to perform under pressure, so you’ll be able to stop on a dime even if you’re traveling at high speeds. The Switchable ABS is another great feature that comes standard on the Street Triple R – the mechanism can easily be turned off, giving you the freedom to brake as hard as you want and tear up the track. You don’t have to worry about remembering to turn the ABS back on the next time you hit the road. It automatically resets the next time you fire up the engine.

2013 Triumph Street Triple R Image Gallery

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2013 BMW C 650 GT: Redefining The Scooter Image

While hardcore motorcycle enthusiasts might scoff at the idea of using a scooter to get from place to place, these vehicles are growing ever more popular in the U.S., and BMW recently introduced its version – the 2013 C650GT Maxi-Scooter – in Los Angeles. Thanks to their small size, scooters are an ideal way to navigate a city environment. You can park them on the sidewalk in most places and they’re more fuel efficient than pretty much any other vehicle that runs on gasoline. However, scooters are often small and don’t provide you with a lot of storage options, which may have dissuaded some buyers in the past. BMW took these factors into consideration and crafted a slightly larger, but still just as fuel efficient, scooter that is sure to please the luxury-lover.

Bigger, Better Scooter

BMW did not skimp on any details in designing the Maxi-Scooter. The C650GT, which has been available in Europe and the U.K. for some time, is heavier and longer than the R1200RT Sport Touring model, which means you’ll be plenty comfortable astride this scooter. The best part of this new ride is that it has a need for speed. The 647cc engine churns out an impressive 60 horsepower, and BMW claims the scooter can reach a top speed of 109 miles per hour.

Smooth Riding

You don’t have to worry about losing control of the scooter at these high speeds, or at any speed for that matter, as BMW included a suspension system that is designed to remain stable at higher speeds, thanks in part to a tubular steel bridge frame and a diecast aluminum swingarm. The upside down front fork and the angled spring strut in the rear each provide 4.5 inches of travel, so you won’t feel every bump and groove in the pavement.

Luxury Features

No BMW would be complete without lots of fun motorcycle gear and accessories to choose from, and the C650GT is no exception to this rule. The scooter has an electronically adjustable windshield, an automatic parking brake that is integrated in the side stand, heated grips, and a heated seat. There is also plenty of storage (2.1 cubic feet) under the seat of this bike, more than any other available maxi-scooter, so you can get to and from the office or ride out of the city to get away for the day and enjoy a picnic at the beach.

2013 BMW C650GT Image Gallery

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