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Orange Saturday - and other happenings...

     So, if you missed Orange Saturday, you can check out some of the pictures in the slideshow. We had a great time - the turkeys were fried, and the gravy flowed like...well, gravy.
     Every year we enjoy our special way of kicking off the Christmas/Holiday shopping season - customers can check out all the new Winter and Holiday gear, absorb a little Harley ambiance, and all while the soft scent of fried turkeys drifts through the air.
     But that's only the beginning of the Christmas season. The theme this year is Military Appreciation - and it's a tradition that goes WAAAY back with Harley. Did you know that with a $

300 qualifying purchase you'll receive a free gift - the Military Archive Collection - a $75 value? You can also take a moment to sign our flag, which we'll be sending to soldiers in the middle east as part of a special care package for Christmas. You can also take a moment to fill out a post card to include in the package too.
And while you're visiting, stop by the coffee station and check out the Cup o' Joe messages! It's so simple, yet so meaningful - you, too, can send a Cup o' Joe to a Joe - that is, send a gift of a cup of coffee to a soldier overseas, along with a personal message. You can also drop some change into the Cup o' Joe collection can - Liberty will

match the donation and send coffees to soldiers. When they email us back, we post the messages on the coffee station walls, and on our website - check a few to see how much a cup of coffee and a kind word means, especially around the holidays.
Speaking of Christmas - don't miss Santa Claus, all the way down from the North

Pole - on Saturday, December 18th! Visit Santa at Liberty, and take home a complimentary souvenir picture of you, your family, and Santa, all piled on our antique 1951 Harley-Davidson Servicar (Santa's REAL sleigh - just ask him!). You'll be given a special code, and your pictures can be viewed online with whomever you choose to share them with - even on Facebook!
Think Liberty this holiday season. We're chock-full of gifts for the whole family, moms, dads, grandparents, kids - even pets! We look forward to seeing you soon!

The Best Aprilia RSV4 2011

Pricing and availability have yet to be announced, though we expect it to be This special . Tricolour. livery as they call it is symbolic of the Italian flag and pays tribute to Max Biaggi and his recent world championship aboard the machine. Rounding out the changes is a slightly updated paint scheme, featuring the traditional Aprilia black/red but with an added green and white accent to the lower. A new 200/55-17 rear tire has been specially designed for the RSV4 APRC by fellow Italians Pirelli, featuring a dual compound design aimed to give riders a capable tire for both aggressive street and track use. Internal gear ratios are also, optimized for track use, likely meaning they are closer together and feature a taller first gear, though exact details have not yet been released, and produce slightly more power.

In terms of changes to the machine’s actual hardware, the RSV4 SE keeps the same 65-degree V-Four powerplant as the previous Factory model, though it now features a new exhaust that is claimed to be lighter 2011 Aprilia RSV4 APRC SE A new exhaust system is both lighter and produces more power, while Aprilia and Pirelli have teamed up to develop a new dual-compound 200/55-17 rear tire designed specifically for the RSV4 APRC SE. Because Aprilia realizes that this machine is designed for the track as much as it is the street, the instrument cluster features two totally different settings, Road and Race, allowing the rider to toggle between two optimal setups, one for each environment, with a simple push of a button.

The New Aprilia RSV4 2011

This technology has only been seen on top level racebikes for the past few years, so to have it available on a street legal production machine this quickly is quite remarkable. The system is armed when the rider squeezes both traction control buttons on the left handlebar when at a complete stop and it features three different settings that, like the rest of the bike's systems, can be adjusted independently each other. A first for a production sportbike of any kind, the launch control system allows the rider to essentially pin the throttle and let out the clutch with haste while the engine management controls the rest with the aim of getting the best possible launch.
The RSV4 has three different APW (Aprilia Wheelie Control) and APL (Aprilia Launch Control) modes as well, while the new Special Edition machine also gets a quick shifter as standard to allow for full throttle up shifts with a simple dab of the left foot. The launch control is a first for any production sportbike. The mode selector on the left handlebar controls the traction, wheelie and launch control features on the new Italian V-Four.

2011 Aprilia RSV4 Factory APRC SE First Look

The system can also be adjusted on the fly via a toggle on the left handlebar and does so instantaneously, giving the rider the ability to use multiple different settings during a single lap if so desired. The sophisticated system runs in conjunction with the ride-by-wire throttle that the RSV4 Factory already has as standard to not only be able to reduce torque when the rear wheel spins but also let the rider control the exact amount of rear tire slippage on corner exit. This advanced electronics system features eight different traction control settings and is called ATC (Aprilia Traction Control). It's a self adjusting electronics system that utilizes wheel speed sensors and a host of other parameters to provide the rider with wheelie control, launch control and variable traction control that is able to adapt to different types of tires basically, it’s the TC system off of Max Biaggi’s world beating World Superbike, just adapted for street use.

And what does it do? Aprilia Performance Ride Control. So what does APRC stand for? The boys from Noale, Italy, are back at it once again, this time updating the World Championship winning RSV4 Factory with a host of new goodies for 2011, introducing a new top of the line model dubbed the Aprilia RSV4 Factory APRC SE.

The Radical Fury Can This Really Be A Honda 2011

Optional Available in Dark Red Metallic and Black beginning in December 2010. Because when you’re aboard one of the coolest rides around, sometimes you just don’t want your ride to end. Check out those stylish hard leather bags that offer ample storage space and that big, traditional windscreen; we’re talking all-day riding comfort and convenience that will carry you through that long, long getaway.

Now available as an optional ABS model with Honda’s Combined Braking System, the 2011 Interstate expands its prowess as a prime choice for the open road. Honda Interstate: High Style For A Cross Country Ride Sure it’s fun to have a stylin’ ride, but it can be even better yet when high style merges with the ability to rack up big miles and that’s what the Interstate is all about. Optional ABS and CBS color and availability date TBD. Available in Dark Red Metallic, Pearl White and Matte Orange Metallic beginning in December 2010. Who would have ever thought it possible?

Yet despite the extreme lines and head turning looks, the Fury is backed up with the same fit and finish, functionality, affordability, quality and reliability built into every Honda. Here we have the rolling incarnation of the pure, undiluted chopper essence, a machine that simply looks right, sounds right and goes straight to the heart of the radical in all of us. Yet it’s all Honda, through and through. Indeed, the Fury appears to be something from the farthest fringes of the two wheeled world. We understand perfectly if you think your eyeballs are lying to you.

2011 Honda Fury, Interstate & Big Red First Look

Our selection of models for 2011 keeps growing and there will be more to follow. Here we have a variety of very popular cruisers and customs, a pair of Honda off road machines that have remained extremely popular with riders over the years, plus a revamped and very impressive Big Red MUV. The 2011 model year lineup continues to expand for Honda,said Powersports Press Manager Bill Savino. A pair of popular off road motorcycles return, the CRF80F and CRF100F, along with the Big Red Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MUV). These Hondas include the Fury, Interstate, Shadow RS and Shadow Phantom with the Sabre and Stateline customs released at a later date.

American Honda Motor Company’s Powersports Division announced to its dealers today an additional release of street bikes and off-road models for the 2011 model year.

Honda Fury 2011

Paralleling the surge in industrial output, the demand for its commercial vehicles (CV) is so strong, analysts are forecasting sales to grow over 15% as truck freight rates get better and consumers as well as The positive results make a good conviction in the management's sales projection of 240,000 units for the 2011 fiscal year with the China market getting 25,000 units. Market analysts from Religare Research have forecasted that JLR's sales to average 19,400 units on a monthly basis. Year-to-date aggregate sales oh Jaguar Land Rover sales have reached 92,759 units, 46% year on year. Sales revenues in the US and other world markets were likewise in line with growth trends.

August posted a sales volume growth of 29% year on year as JLR sold 16,220 units. The growing demand for commercial vehicles has seen the increase in Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) sales that is sure to boost positive sentiment among investors. But come 2010, a more upbeat economy that is seeing the end of the global recession has translated into sales that have brought the new Jaguar Land Rover division of Tata Motors into the pink of health. Understandably, those months would not be seeing any encouraging sales for the two marques. Bought for around $2.3 Billion from cash-strapped Detroit automobile leader Ford Motors, those brands went into Tata's umbrella just as the fury of the global economic crisis was taking its peak.

It was only a year ago that Tata Motors must have felt they made the wrong investment decision acquiring the prestigious British marques Jaguar and Land Rover.

BMW GS Motorcycles Have Given Adventure to the Bike Community 2011

Now most motorcycle manufacturers are looking at the Adventure market with interest and most will have These two programmes projected the BMW bikes to world stardom and sales increased beyond BMW's dreams. It was followed with another tour going south, the 'Long Way Down' where they travelled from Scotland to Australia on two BMW R1200GS bikes. There is one piece of inadvertent marketing that occurred in the early part of the new century and that was a TV programme called 'The Long Way Across' in which Ewan McGregor and Charlie Boorman rode two BMW R1150GS bikes across Europe for a TV travel documentary.

Their later Tiger 1055 has caught the imagination and bank account of many born again bikers. KTM came on board with the 990 version and the Triumph Tiger 955 was released to directly compete with the established off road Adventure bikes. Honda then produced the Varadero and Suzuki launched the Vstrom, two very credible machines with mass appeal. Up until that point 'trail' bikes were the only real option to road 'naked' bikes and 'cruisers' which commanded worldwide bike markets.

However the Adventure bike never really took off until the late 90's when other motorcycle manufacturers jumped on the bandwagon and produced their own hybrid Adventure models to compete with an increasing foothold that BMW were gaining in the hybrid market with their GS1150 AND R1200GS and Adventure model bikes. 30 years ago BMW launched the GS Adventure motorcycle which was a new area for the German company and a new breed of motorbike for the world.

The New BMW F 650 GS 2011

I stopped the motorcycle at the end of the Home appeared too quickly. My kind of performance. This motorcycle is smooth, quiet, and seems to pull no matter what speed I'm traveling or what gear I'm in.

A little side trip up a gravel road did the trick. I had to pull over and look at the controls for everything to make sense. A smarter person could make the adjustment on the road. The turn signals took a couple of practice runs to reprogram my brain from the one button all function switch on the Vespa to the three button self canceling function of the BMW.

Just a less than direct ride home from work with a few stops to check out the motorcycle. I didn't really have time for any riding today. This bike has ABS brakes, heated grips, built in port for electrics, and a lot more. A quick check of the bike and the controls revealed a big difference from the usual tools on my Vespa.

But who am I to complain? I get nervous being the first one to take something out on the road. Zero miles on the odometer. This one is brand new. So I am starting with a BMW F 650 GS.

I was going to wait until the weather was a bit warmer but when Craig Kissell send an email asking when I was going to take a GS for a ride what could I do? The time has arrived to check out one of the new BMW motorcycles at Kissell Motorsports.

BMW F 650 GS 2011 For Sale

However, all of that changed in 2011 when Ford added 12% displacement to the 6.7L Cummins B-series While injection systems and valves have undergone radical changes over the years, one constant with the Cummins B-series has been the displacement of the units. A 5.9L-powered F650 puts forth 269 horsepower at 2,550 rpm, and it provides 594 pound-feet of torque at 2,300 rpm. Engine aspects such as cylinder heads, emissions equipment, injection systems, and turbos, have all experienced dramatic improvement in the two decades since their inception. However, a great deal has changed since 1989.

In terms of design, the 5.9L Cummins B-series engines are essentially the same engines introduced in the 1989 Dodge pickup truck lineup. The 5.9L is the, standard, engine option, and most of the advertised price quotes reflect that. There's the old but reliable 5.9L Cummins diesel engine, the recently updated and innovated 6.7L Cummins diesel engine, and a 7.2L Caterpillar diesel engine that packs the punch need to tackle the most difficult jobs. This Class 6/7 truck comes with the customer's choice of three engines.

However, that hasn't stopped truck enthusiasts from seeing other potential, and aftermarket packages have resulted in an F650 for sale that is a lot like Navistar's International CXT, which they cancelled in 2011. As they did with the F600, Ford intends the F650 as a commercial vehicle with a focus on towing and heavy hauling that can meet the needs of the world's largest construction projects. Ford introduced the F650 for sale in 2000 as replacement for the F600 super truck.

The Factory LeoVince Evo II Sound 2011

LeoVince is dedicated to combining the most modern technology with the handcrafted finish delivered by experienced craftsmen; all to provide you with the best exhaust in the world. To ensure legendary build quality, nothing is farmed out to subcontractors. How this exhuast was made LeoVince facilities are completely inclusive, including all aspects of production, stamping, welding, bending, and carbon fiber molding. In many cases LeoVince R&D works hand-in-hand with manufacturer factory race teams for further development.

Every prototype is run extensively on the dyno and once approved is tested on the track under the most severe conditions. Serious performance boost and style at an entry level price. Slim MotoGP style silencer. Significant weight savings over stock. Slip ons boost horsepower an average of 5% across RPM range. Constructed of brush finished TIG-welded 304 stainless steel. Aluminum and 304 stainless steel mounting hardware kit included. Produces deeper tuned tone at a reasonable sound level. EVOII silencer insert removable for more aggressive tone. CAD/CAM designed for precise fite. Machine specific tuned to work with stock fuel settings How this exhuaust was designed LeoVince products are designed in their own dedicated R&D facility using advanced CAD/CAM technology.

The New LeoVince Evo II Sound 2011

They are designed to run with stock jetting or fuel injection settings. Serious performance boost at an entry level price. All 304 stainless steel internal silencer construction. Significant weight savings over stock. Slip ons boost horsepower an average of 5% across RPM range. Pipes made of TIG welded 304 stainless steel. Aluminum canister straps. Aluminum and 304 stainless steel mounting hardware kit included . Produces deeper tuned They are designed to run with stock jetting or fuel injection settings. Serious performance boost at an entry level price. All 304 stainless steel internal silencer construction. Significant weight savings over stock.

Slip ons boost horsepower an average of 5% across RPM range. Pipes made of TIG welded 304 stainless steel. Aluminum canister straps. Aluminum and 304 stainless steel mounting hardware kit included. Produces deeper tuned tone at a reasonable sound level. EVOII silencer insert removable for more aggressive tone. CAD/CAM designed for precise fit. Machine-specific tuned to work with stock fuel settings LEOVINCE 8111 SBK OVAL EVOII ALUMINUM FULL EXHAUST SYSTEM NINJA 250R 08 09 10 2008 2009 2010 KAWASAKI 250 ZX-250R LeoVince SBK Oval Systems SBK Oval exhaust systems are powerful, durable and most importantly affordable, providing significant weight savings and increased horsepower. LEOVINCE 8111 SBK OVAL EVOII ALUMINUM FULL EXHAUST SYSTEM NINJA 250R 08 09 10 2008 2009 2010 2011 KAWASAKI 250 ZX-250R LeoVince SBK Oval Systems SBK Oval exhaust systems are powerful, durable and most importantly affordable, providing significant weight savings and increased horsepower.

LeoVince Evo II Sound 2011

All titanium internal silencer construction. All titanium properly welded in an oxygen free environment for maximum strength. Available with titanium or real carbon fiber canister sleeve. Significant weight savings over stock. Slip-ons boost horsepower an average of 5% across RPM range. Mid-pipes made of TIG-welded 304 stainless steel. Real carbon fiber canister straps and end cap. Aluminum and 304 stainless steel mounting hardware kit included. Produces deeper tuned tone at a reasonable sound level. EVOII silencer insert removable for more aggressive tone. CAD/CAM designed for precise fit. Machine specific tuned to work with stock fuel settings

They are designed to increase horsepower and run at peak efficiency with stock jetting or fuel injection settings. They are constructed with a TIG-welded stainless steel AISI 304 mid-pipe (or full header) leading to an all carbon fiber canister with a carbon fiber end cap and mounting strap providing significant weight savings.

LeoVince SBK Factory Slip On Systems: SBK Factory exhaust systems are the top street systems available from LeoVince. REMOVABLE BAFFLES Includes all needed fitting hardware and instructions. Leo Vince Factory Line Evo II Full Carbon Can with Carbon Fiber Endcap SLIP-ON system for '09-'10 RSV4-R, RSV4 Factory.

Honda Reveals Second Teaser Sketch of 2011 VFR 800

There is speculation that Honda will use an 800 cc engine rather than the more powerful 1,200cc engine that is in the VFR1200F, hence the concept of the VFR 800. With respect to design, the new motorcycle is expected to draw inspiration from the VFR1200F, Fireblade and the upcoming CBR250R model. Honda has revealed a second teaser sketch of the 2011 Honda VFR 800 adventure sportsbike. 7, 2010. 2 to Nov. Expect a concept based on the VFR1200F in the Milan show, which will take place from Nov.

Further details such as specification and prices of the VFR 800 (as expected with the 800 cc engine) will be unveiled at the EICMA Milan Auto Show that will commence this week. With the low centre of gravity of a performance bike it is great fun to ride, and because of its wide handlebars and upright riding position it is both easy to maneuver and comfortable. Honda is focusing on the touring and pillion comforts in the 2011 VFR 800 motorcycle rather than off-road abilities. It will have the flexibility and exciting attitude of a naked performance machine, with the more comfortable upright riding position and design cues inspired by adventure bikes. Honda VFR800 concept photo According to Honda. The new adventure sportsbike is an exciting new approach, a crossover machine that represents the best aspects of two separate biking genres. There are also expectations that Honda will use 17-inch alloy road bike wheels, VFR-inspired fairing design and a combined rider and pillion seat.

2011 Honda VFR 800 Adventure Tourer Sketch Two

Honda has released two teaser images as of now and Honda VFR 800X Adventure Tourer will be sporting efficient features like V4 engine configuration, liquid cooled engine, subtle use of designer looks, aero dynamics , 800cc power plant and many more. Speaking of the teaser image, one can only wait to see more of the bike at coming Milan bike expo. Honda has made VFR 800X Adventure Tourer keeping in mind both the aspects of adventure biking (enhanced performance) and comfortable riding.

As far as the image goes, VFR has got good innovative floating instrument cluster that will be within biker’s reach to ensure safe riding. On examining the image closely that reveals sharp edges on the headlight one can ensure the aero dynamics applied. According to the image, the bike has a good designer headlight that will ensure stability and enhance aerodynamics. The second unveiled image of the bike looks great. Honda plans to unveil VFR 800X Adventure tourer along with seven other models at the Milan Bike Expo in couple of weeks from now.

Through the image one can know what exactly the bikes front headlight looks like. The first sketch was unveiled few days ago and now the second look features a close draw of the headlight. Few Days back Honda unveiled the first look of the bike and now the second teaser in the form of a designer sketch looks refreshing. Recently, Honda revealed second design sketch of all new Honda VFR Adventure Tourer. Honda is definitely rushing to become the world leader in biking technology.

The VFR800 - The ultimate Sports Tourer 2011

Original in every detail, and destined to turn heads wherever it goes, the Honda VFR800 Vtec form fuses the most advanced aerodynamic design with an exhilarating sense of modern style, sweeping back from nose to tail in an unmistakable representation of speed.

With the ability to ride distances in comfort while still delivering exhilarating supersports performance at the twist of the throttle is where the Honda VFR800 Vtec gains respect. The Honda VFR800 Vtec is a sports tourer with an extraordinary blend of sophistication, comfort, performance and practicality.

2011 Kawasaki ZX-10R Unveiled

We’ve seen it, sat on it, and heard it run! Kawasaki has unleashed a potent new literbike weapon in the form of the 2011 ZX-10R.

This is not a warmed-over version of the existing 10R – it’s a ground-up redesign with virtually zero carry-over parts. More power and less weight (22 lbs is the target) are naturally part of the package, but less expected is a new traction-control system that is claimed to be the most sophisticated on the market and comes as standard equipment.
The result is a bike said to be a huge 2 seconds quicker around Autopolis than the 2010 edition in back-to-back testing on identical tires on the same day. This indicates it has the potential to turn better lap times than its literbike competitors.

2010 Oddball Sport-Touring Shootout: Ducati Multistrada vs Honda VFR1200F vs Kawasaki Z1000

You say tom-a-to, someone says tom-o-to.
Your riding buddies say they can tour on any bike. You say most touring-oriented bikes have a sporty side and therefore make the best sport-tourer.
Oops! Did we just allude to one of the more controversial, even incendiary, topics in modern motorcycling?

Today, when someone utters the word sportbike, the likely response is a GSX-R, an R6, a Honda CBR, or some such thing. But ask a rider to describe his or her ideal of a sport-touring machine, and the answers are wide ranging.
Sure, lots of folks would naturally point to the likes of Honda’s venerable ST1300, Yamaha’s FJR1300 or BMW’s K1200GT or R1200RT, as prime examples of sport-tourers. Each bike offers good to great wind protection, hard saddlebags as standard, robust engines and some darn good handling qualities.

2011 Hyosung ST E3 Electric Scooter

Hyosung will offer an electric scooter as part of its 2011 North American product lineup.

The Hyosung ST E3 runs on a proprietary lithium-polymer battery that can be charged in a household electrical outlet in three hours.
According to Hyosung, the ST E3 has a range of approximately 120 km (74.6 miles) on a single charge while traveling at a constant speed of 35 km/h (21.7 mph). Maximum speed is estimated at 60 km/h (37.3 mph).
Hyosung plans to produce more electric models in the future.

Style Points Honda understands vehicle dynamics like no other

Honda understands vehicle dynamics like no other, and hard numbers reveal objective data. But for cruisers/choppers, style is king, and this is judged purely by subjective criteria. “It had to be number one,” says Honda designer Bruno Conte about the importance of styling in this market. The following are some highlights of where we think Honda best hit the mark.

2010 BMW S1000RR Review

BMW's motorcycle division hasn't enjoyed the worldwide performance reputation of its automotive sector, but that all changes with the incredible S1000RR, introduced to journalists last week at the equally impressive Portimao race circuit.

BMW Motorrad hits the literbike market hard with its race replica, as the S1000 employs class-leading power, a stout chassis beyond reproach, and a techie electronics package second to none. This bike is the real deal.
We've been teased with details of the bike for well over a year. Our first glimpse came in April of 2008 when I wrote the S1000RR Preview, and then we brought new insight last December in our Closer Look article. Then we finally got to see the bike in the flesh at its U.S. introduction where Pete elaborated on the RR's features and specs.
After all of that, we were already quite up to speed on what the bike consists of. Now all we needed to know is how it performs.

Kawasaki KLX 110L The Best 2011

The 125cc four stroke machine provides plenty of power, yet it is still extremely high quality, making is an awesome machine to start mini biking on! The Kawasaki KLX 110L 2011 uses a similar motor to most other bikes out there. The BBR Super Pro is the best bike on the market, but will set you back around $6,000, slightly more expensive than $700!

The bikes have been designed and developed using a range of features from the Honda CRF 50, Kawasaki KLX 110 and the BBR Super Pro. KLX 110 have worked closely with their research and development team to ensure that their bikes are nothing but high quality. Next we'll talk about the quality of the machines. If you have any idea about the cost of the smaller machines then you'll know that this kind of price for a brand new bike is next to nothing.

Most retailers sell the Kawasaki KLX 110L 2011 at around $700-800, although is can be slightly cheaper. Let's start with the price; this bike is one of the cheapest on the market. Hopefully this will help you make a conscious decision as to what bike is the rightKLX 110 for you! This article will explain why this bike rivals the likes of the Kawasaki KLX 110 and Honda CRF 50 for quality, yet is so much cheaper.

Mini biking is getting more and more popular by the day, so it is no wonder you have stumbled upon the Kawasaki KLX 110L 2011.

Kawasaki KLX 110L 2011

They are extremely high quality yet they don't demand too high a So it goes without saying that all of their mini bikes are also up to standard. There is no doubt that the likes of Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha and Kawasaki all produce some of the best motorcycles on the market. Exceptional quality reasonable price!

Staying with established manufacturers such as Kawasaki and Honda is essential! People are attracted by the cheap prices, only to be disappointed when the bike turns out to have poor handling, and fall apart over every bump it comes into contact with. Companies that are not established and do not have the necessary tooling required to make quality products, seem to think they can. For some reason there seem to be a huge amount of cheap copies in circulation.

Quality is king! This article will help you understand why the KLX is one of the best mini bikes on the market, and why you should look at purchasing! Great! Do you just want to know which the best bike to start on is, but will last a long time? Have you searched throughout the internet and you are becoming confused by the amount of different bikes available?

Did you think about purchasing a Honda CRF50 but have now realized that it does not have the power output that you require? Have you looked at as many mini bikes as possible and think that the Kawasaki KLX110 is the right one for you? Are you looking to get into the mini bike scene?

Top Kawasaki ZX-10R 2011

The current ZX-10R is the lowest revving literbike (aside from the Aprilia RSV4), so Speaking of the S1000RR, that’s the stunning new target Kawasaki has to aim for in this revitalized market segment. The new Ninja will have comprehensive instrumentation, including the ability to switch between street and track displays. A performance-based anti-lock braking system will be optional, but a BMW-like quick-shifter won’t be part of the package.

We’re told to expect a TC system that is better than the BMW package on the S1000RR, able to be toggled through more customizable settings. Perhaps the headlining news is that Kawi’s lawyers have allowed engineers to develop what might turn out to be a class-leading electronic rider-aid package, including multi-adjustable traction control. This design concept sketch shows the general styling theme of the 2011 ZX-10R, but the race version (based upon the production bike) seen at Suzuka deviates significantly from the sketch, especially the shape and design of the side fairing panels. Rumors suggest a production version of the new 10R can lap Kawi’s Autopolis test track seconds quicker than the 2010 model. It’s a total ground-up redesign.

And yet, despite the apparent lack of visible innovation, we’re told to expect a seriously competitive liter sized sportbike. Instead, we find an evolutionary literbike design of a traditional inline Four engine wrapped in a perimeter beam aluminum frame. Rumors of variable valve timing are also likely unfounded. The new 10R has neither a big bang firing order nor a horizontal placement of its cylinders, despite fanciful speculation in lesser publications. First off, let’s dispel two wild rumors.