Since the first steam-powered motorcycle produced in 1867, motorcycles have come a very long way. Over the decades, motorcycles have developed from single and dual cylinder engines with alcohol burners, to the first diesel-based engine in 1885, to the impressive machinery we see today. There are six main categories for motorcycles; cruiser, sport, touring, standard, dual-purpose and dirt bike.
Although Japanese manufacturers dominate the market, BMW, Ducati, Victory and Harley-Davidson continue to remain popular choices. Many motorcycles are scheduled to be released in 2019 and we are eagerly looking forward to seeing which models don’t live up to the hype, and which ones speed beyond their spec sheets. Listed below are just three of the many anticipated hot rides of 2019.
Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE+
Included in Forbes ‘2019 Motorcycles We Can’t Wait To Ride’, the Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE+ has transformed the sport-touring platform with substantial upgrades in both performance and style.
This improved model features electronic suspension and is powered by a 998cc inline-four that produces 200 horsepower at 11,000 rpm.
Some of the upgrades over the base SX SE include: a larger windscreen, high-grade leather seats, launch control, heated grips, Quickshifter for clutchless up and downshifts and LED cornering lights topped off with ‘Highly Durable Paint’.
The top coating allows everyday riding scratches to repair themselves as the top coat acts as a chemical spring absorbing small impacts.
The Ninja H2 SX SE+ is available in Metallic Graphite Gray, Metallic Diablo Black or Emerald Blazed Green, and is priced at $25,000.With features like smartphone connectivity and new four-piston Brembo Stylema callipers up front to assist in quicker brake cooling the Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE+ should stop you in your tracks on your search for your next ride.
Ducati Panigale V4 R
Where Ducati’s first-ever V4 superbike fell short for street riding, the Ducati Panigale V4 R takes first place. Meeting the World SBK’s V-engine cap of 1000cc with a 998cc engine. The Panigale V4 R was built to win World Superbike Champion and bring the manufacturer’s cup back home to Italy. The race-ready 379-pound bike produces 221 horsepower at 15,250 rpm, and 82 ft/lbs of torque at 11.500 rpm. Some of the new engine highlights include forged steel crankshaft with reduced stroke, titanium intake valves, dedicated variable-height air intake horns, and high-permeability Sprintfilter P08 air filter. The fire-breathing race bike also features a 4.23-gallon aluminium gas tank, single-seat configuration and full LED Headlight with Daytime Riding Lights. Coming to dealerships in March this year, Ducati’s latest model is sure to pack a punch at $40,000.
BMW S1000RR
To celebrate the 10th birthday of the S 1000 RR, BMW has totally revised its flagship sports bike. The now third generation superbike engine is nearly 9 pounds lighter than its predecessor and produces 205 horsepower at 13,500 rpm, and 83 ft/torque at 11,000 rpm.
This superpowered engine also now features BMW ShiftCam Technology providing more power across the low-to-mid-rpm range. The third-gen superbike has four revised riding modes; rain, road, dynamic and race, with the option of Pro Modes.
The pro modes offer the rider to individually program a mode to meet their specific needs. The customizable settings are Dynamic Traction Control, ABS, wheelie detection, throttle input and engine braking.
Due to the revised layout of the mainframe, which allows the engine to take on more of a load-bearing function, BMW was able to use a leaner fuel tank and optimise the seating area for ergonomics and knee grip on the tank. Full specs, availability and pricing are yet to be released, but with upgrades like these, BMW’s supercharged S 1000 RR is sure to rev your engine.