We review the best bikes from the Cologne bike show including the new legendary Honda Fireblade
The legendary Honda Fireblade updated, the Suzuki GSX-R 1000 and the Triumph Bonneville T100
SOME delicious machines have been unveiled at the world’s biggest and best motorbike show. Intermot in Cologne, Germany, got under way last week to reveal what is new on two wheels.
HONDA FIREBLADE
It is long overdue but Honda has finally updated the legendary Fireblade.
And when I say updated, I mean rewritten the script.
It has had a power hike of 11bhp yet at the same time lost 14kg of weight – that will bring lap times down a lot. In keeping with other modern superbikes, it has a built-in gyro that can measure lean angle and work with the traction control and ABS.
Ride-by-wire throttle and multiple ride modes will also be standard.
SUZUKI GSX-R 1000
Staying on the superbike theme, Suzuki is bringing a new 1000cc race bike to the roads next year. After a sterling season in MotoGP, there will be plenty of takers.
The new “gixxer” will produce 199bhp, managed by an advanced variable valve timing system. A quick shifter adds to its race-ready credentials and it will weigh just 203kg (wet).
I hardly need to tell you this thing is going to fly. Buy it in the MotoGP livery – it looks stunning.
TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE T100
The British brand continues to build on the success of its retro range, with the latest in the Bonneville line-up, right. The T100 is powered by the same 900cc engine as the Street Twin, knocking out 54bhp.
Ride-by-wire throttle, torque assisted clutch, traction control and ABS are standard. There is even a built-in USB for charging on the go.
Optional extras include cruise control and heated grips.
