Suzuki GSX-R1000

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.

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.

2007 Honda CBR 125R

“I think I’ve figured out a way to get you on a bike,” says Neil, arriving home from the office to a kitchen in chaos. But with a toddler hanging from my belt loops and boiling pasta long overdue to be drained his words scarcely register. Later that evening I learn that Honda Canada is releasing the CBR125R, and if I am willing I can learn to ride for the small price of telling my story in Cycle Canada.

Honda’s Unique And Futuristic DN-01 On Sale From 1 August

Honda’s unique DN-01 motorcycle goes on sale on Friday 1 August from Honda Motorcycle dealers across the UK .

Available in two sleek colours of graphite black and pearl amethyst purple and priced at £9200*, the DN-01 - dream concept turned production reality motorcycle - with fully automatic transmission, is a truly unique machine in the world of motorcycling and defies being categorised.

Honda’s team of engineers set out to create an entirely new category of motorcycle and sought to combine elements of swift superbike performance, relaxed custom cruiser riding comfort, operating ease of a big scooter, attention grabbing and futuristic styling with unparalleled technological advancements.

Honda’s Much Awaited CB1000R

This Friday (4 July) marks the much-awaited release of Honda’s applauded CB1000R performance naked motorcycle, from Honda dealerships across the UK.

This all-new performance naked will finally be unleashed on to the open roads in a choice of four distinctive colours to include Dragon Green, Pearl Nightstar Black, Sword Silver or Pearl Cool White and, comes in two model options. The standard machine will be priced at £6950, with the combined ABS-equipped bike at £7450, showing that this stunning new machine is exceptional value for money with its stylish looks, stunning performance and Honda’s enviable build quality.

Yamaha XT660Z Tenere

The Yamaha XT660Z Tenere is a great value, superbly capable adventure bke with real off road capability. Global treks aren’t really on the cards as the Yamaha XT660Z Tenere’s vibey single cylinder engine makes hard work of pulling its 185kg dry weight. Useful touches such as the durable crash panels and front towing hoop put it in a class of it’s own.

Engine: The Yamaha XT660Z Tenere’s engine is used in a number of other machines (including the Aprilia Pagaso, MT-03, Derbi Mulhacen as well as the XT660 X and R models) complaints of a jerky throttle, stalling and mid rev hunting have been fixed on the Tenere. The engine accelerates cleanly from a closed throttle and pulls well (for a single) up to 70mph. Intrusive Vibes begin at 5000rpm.

Suzuki GSX1300R Hayabusa

The original Suzuki GSX1300R Hayabusa is still one seriously quick motorcycle, possessed of enormous acceleration and breathtaking top speed. True, the GSX1300R Hayabusa doesn’t quite handle all that power (and weight) too brilliantly sometimes, but it remains a supremely comfortably long range missile, that always delivers a shot of raw adrenaline. Latest version is better yet.

Engine: The original Suzuki GSX1300R Hayabusa is very simple, yet brutally effective four cylinder monster, the 1299cc engine is bulletproof, doesn’t chin fuel too badly at semi-sane speeds and the fuel injection works very efficiently too. The amount of midrange torque that the GSX1300R Hayabusa produces is especially impressive and makes fast road riding ridiculously easy. New version is better though.

Yamaha YZF-R125

New price £2,999
Engine size 124cc
Power 14.6bhp
Top speed 75mph
Insurance group 6

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!