Street Motorcycle

Like the new, robust chassis on Harley-Davidson’s touring machines, news about a brand new V-Rod is only weeks old, but like the touring bikes, our time at the recent ‘09 H-D model launch presented an opportunity to cop a ride on the new V-Rod Muscle.
The long, low and clean look of this latest VRSC family member strikes a familiar pose to that of the other two V-Rods, the intimidating blacked-out (and now Dark Custom member) Night Rod Special and the more simple but classic-looking V-Rod.
Flexing some new muscle

The Muscle is primarily a styling exercise. Rather than the more rounded shapes of the other ‘Rods, this new guy adopts slightly more angular shapes, especially in the faux fuel tank/air-box cover, wide side air-intake covers and squared-off low and cushy saddle with a rear support designed to hold the rider in place during powerful bursts of acceleration on tap from the same super-smooth 60-degree liquid-cooled DOHC, eight-valve, Revolution 1250cc V-Twin that powers all ’Rods. The Muscle comes in a 121 hp/85 ft-lbs flavor.
Also new is the radiator shroud and minimalist rear fender with incredibly tasteful and smartly-integrated stop/turn/taillight. The further one gets from the rear of this bike, the thinner the fender looks, yet safety isn’t impacted thanks to the powerfully-bright LED lighting. In another stroke of design genius, front LED turn indicators are blended to near invisibleness in the mirror stalks.
The front fender also deserves styling kudos with its rear half wearing a matte-black finish in order to disappear visually, leaving the first impression that only a simple, chopped fender covers the 5-spoke cast-aluminum 19-inch front wheel.
The mirrors themselves, along with the meaty angular bars, internally-wired cast bar riser and simple triple gauges with sportbike-gauge-inspired looks all add to the block o’ billet appearance of the bike.
Finally, the most distinct item setting the Muscle apart from its mates is the wide, long and low dual-exhaust. A muscle-car look was the goal with a single exhaust pipe per side instead of the dual over-under set up on both the Night Rod Special and V-Rod. The satiny finish of the exhaust works especially well on the Brilliant Silver color scheme.


Looks are one thing, a cooked inner calf, melted boot rubber or fried leather are another. I can’t deny the designer’s success at harkening to the muscle-car appeal with the Muscle’s exhaust, but the exhaust shape and placement forces a wide stance when putting a foot down at a light and when straddling the bike.
We had the opportunity to hammer the Muscle down the dragstrip (look for more on that in an upcoming story) at Infineon Raceway in Sonoma County, CA, which revealed the obtrusiveness of the exhaust system. The area just past the point where the head pipes meet the mufflers became darkened and sticky with the melted plastic of roadrace boots, as the smell of hot leather was present and color transfer from leather suits or pants was clearly evident on the exhaust.
They look good, these pipes, but they get hot. More than once during our street ride did I get that sharp jolt of hot flesh as my jeans-covered leg got too close to the exhaust during a stop or paddle maneuver. Pillions may be in jeopardy too of burning some leg hair. Hot stuff, meng!
I was genuinely surprised at how nimble the bike felt and how easily it transitioned left to right, back and forth, despite the big 240mm rear tire...
With a 67-inch wheelbase, slow-speed steering requires effort at the bars and the bike feels generally cumbersome. But that effort melts from your mind once up to speed, and the good leverage from the aggressive bend in the moderately wide handlebars is your friend when hustling this long boy through the tighter and narrower roads on your travels.
It wasn’t until the last 30 miles of the day when an opportunity allowed me to wind up the quick-revving Twin and start flicking the Muscle through the tight stuff. I was genuinely surprised at how nimble the bike felt and how easily it transitioned left to right, back and forth, despite the big 240mm rear tire, now standard on all VRSC models.
This impromptu route gave the bike a chance to reveal a quick handling, stable and very fun characteristic that I didn’t think existed in the machine prior to this point on my ride. The effort required to initiate and then complete a tight radius turn was gone and in its place was a willing participant in my peg-grinding silliness.
Ride quality from the 43mm inverted fork is very good, offering the sensation of a very taut package all around. Only the sharpest angled bumps are a pain, literally, in the rear.
Indeed, the V-Rod is still a cruiser at heart, and has the forward controls to prove it. If there’s another inherent flaw on this ’Rod, aside from the blistering exhausts, it’s the limited lean angle. But, if you’re willing to carry the bike higher, or farther out, in the turn in order to limit the amount of lean needed to complete the turn, you can reduce a good portion of the metal-on-asphalt sound.
Whatever your turning prowess, one thing we can all enjoy is the mill. Acceleration is ferocious from roughly 6,000 rpm all the way to redline; generally, the engine pulls in a very confident and linear manner in any gear and almost any engine speed. Reeling in this silver bullet is cake with the potent dual Brembos made all the more effective when coupled with the optional ABS.
The V-Rod Muscle easily flexes its might with the incredibly smooth and powerful engine and tranny, good ride quality and excellent brakes. If you’re tall enough or content enough to look beyond the stretched ergos to enjoy the bike on the flat, you’ll be doubly rewarded for your endurance when you get this new tuff kid in the corners, or on the ’strip.
The new V-Rod Muscle has a starting suggested MSRP of $17,199 and comes in Vivid Black, Brilliant Silver, Dark Blue Denim and Red Hot Sunglo.



2009 Street Bob gets fresh
Weighing in with a number of cosmetic changes for this year, the venerable Dyna Street Bob is graced with black and silver powder-coated engine treatment that forsakes shiny cooling fins. Gloss-black steel laced wheels are shown off by a low profile front fender. A chopped rear fender with exposed supports is adorned with an old-style LED taillight, and turn indicators also function as stop- and tail-lights, a la the Sportster Nightster.

2009 Sportster news
Suspension upgrades on the 883C, 1200L and 1200C include new springs and recalibrated damping rates for improved ride comfort. New low-profile front fenders are now on all models, and the 883 and 1200 Custom models now ride on a solid-disc silver cast-aluminum rear wheel and a chrome cast-aluminum slotted-disc rear wheel, respectively.

 Here’s some Sportster owner data that you might find interesting: 94% of all Sporty owners will buy another Harley. Start ‘em out on a Harley and it looks like they’ll always be on a Harley.

After a slow trickle of information from a series of teasers to last week’s deluge from an apparently accident leak, Suzuki has officially unveiled its updated 2012 V-Strom 650 ABS.
Initial reaction on the blogosphere to last week’s leak was rather tepid. After several teasers hinting at a “new middle-class motorcycle”, many expected Suzuki to introduce a dramatically changed new V-Strom, perhaps somewhere in the 800cc segment to compete against the new Triumph Tiger 800 and the BMW F800GS.
Proclaiming it “time for real adventures”, Suzuki’s teaser campaign hinted at something more off-road oriented than the previous Wee-Strom. The reality turned out to something still better suited to pavement than dirt.


When the first images and specs emerged, the perception was the 2012 Suzuki V-Strom 650 was, as the cliché goes, more evolutionary than revolutionary. But perhaps that isn’t such a bad thing. The previous V-Strom 650 was a very capable machine, powered by the well-received engine inherited from the Suzuki SV650 and SFV650 Gladius.
The fuel-injected engine on the 2012 Suzuki V-Strom has the same bore and stroke as the previous version (81.0mm x 62.6mm), but it has been updated with new pistons, piston rings and cylinders. According to Suzuki, the updated engine offers higher torque at low-to-mid revs, thanks to a modified cam profile, as well as more horsepower at the high end. Suzuki also claims a 10% improvement in fuel economy, allowing for a slimmer, lighter fuel tank with a capacity of 5.3 gallons from 5.8 gallons. Claiming a curb weight of 472 pounds, the 2012 V-Strom ABS is about 13 pounds lighter than the 2011 version.
The new V-Strom uses the same aluminum twin-spar frame and swingarm as the previous model. The front suspension uses 43mm telescopic forks with five spring preload adjustments and 150mm of stroke. The rear suspension also offers adjustable spring preload, with fine adjustments made with a knob located under the frame cover on the right side.
Like the 2011 model, the V-Strom 650 will only be available with ABS. According to Suzuki, the ABS components are lighter and more compact on the 2012 model, weighing 1.5 pounds, less than half the previous ABS system’s 3.3 pounds.

The 2012 Wee-Strom uses the same aluminum twin-spar frame as the previous version. The new muffler has a buff-finished end cap and silver metallic cover to protect optional side cases from excessive heat.

The seat on the 2012 V-Strom 650 is new, with an embossed logo and red stitching. At 32.9 inches, the standard seat sits 0.6 inches higher than on the previous version, which, according to Suzuki, reduces rider fatigue for long-distance riding. For riders with longer or shorter legs, Suzuki is offering a couple of optional seats that are change the seat height to either 33.7 inches or 32.1 inches.

The standard seat is 32.9 inches from the ground, but Suzuki will offer optional seats for taller and shorter riders.

A slimmer fuel tank combined with the new side vents give the 2012 V-Strom 650 a narrower shape than the previous version.

Design-wise, the new Wee-Strom is slimmer than the previous version. The narrower tank helps make it easier to put your feet down despite the higher seat, while the previous version’s side plastics have been replaced by black resin air outlets, a change intended to improve cooling and provide better wind protection. The windscreen offers three adjustable settings, with the upper edge in the default setting 30mm set back from the 2011 model’s windscreen.
Behind the seat, Suzuki replaced the aluminum rear carrier and passenger grab handles with a lighter black resin components that are lighter and less affected by ambient temperature.
Another update is the new instrument panel with an analog tachometer and brightness-adjustable LCD display. The LCD screen displays a gear indicator, fuel gauge, ambient temperature and odometer/trip meter/fuel consumption. The tachometer also features a coolant and oil temperature warning and a road freeze warning that lights up when the road temperature approaches freezing.
The 2012 V-Strom 650 will be produced in three colors, though only two will be offered in the U.S. American consumers can choose between Metallic Fox Orange and Glass Sparkle Black while other markets will be offered the Pearl Mirage White.
The 2012 Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS will arrive in American dealerships in November, though pricing remains to be determined. Suzuki will also offer a number of accessories, though the North American offerings have yet to be finalized.

The 2012 Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS will be available in North America in black or orange. The white version seen in the close-up shots will be available in other markets.

2013 Suzuki V-Strom 1000 Concept | Review, Features, Specs - 2013 Suzuki V-Strom 1000 Concept pictures, prices, information, and specifications. Here is information on the 2013 Suzuki V-Strom 1000 Concept. If you want to get a quote on a new 2013 Suzuki V-Strom 1000 Concept use our Build Your Own tool, or Compare this bike to other Suzuki Motorcycles.

2013 Suzuki V-Strom 1000 Concept Review

The Future Is Here. Suzuki Motorcycles offers a glimpse into the future with the release of the concept motorcycles, V-Strom 1000 Adventure Tourer Concept. Sharing the spirit of the successful global V-Strom 650, V-Strom 1000 Concept has been engineered to provide fun, excitement, and flexibility for riders who are looking for world-class open new adventure motorcycles.

Find your ultimate goal. More than a decade ago, Suzuki developed the V-Strom 650. Motorcycle offers exceptional flexibility, convenience, and fun to ride character. A balanced package includes a V-twin engine is very flexible and lightweight aluminum chassis. Sharing the spirit of V-Strom 650 ABS succeed globally, the all-new V-Strom 1000 "Concept" will provide fun, excitement, and the flexibility to open class riders who are looking for a new world of adventure motorcycle.


"Suzuki Motorcycle adventure touring forever change categories when developing V-Strom 650 and introduced to the worlds most versatile, convenient and fun-to-ride bikes," said Perry Morison, General Manager, Suzuki Motorcycles. "We are two V-Stroms, 650 and 1000, were among the best-selling adventure tourers, and we are very excited about the release of the concept of V-Strom 1000 for showing the future direction of this model is popular and of our organization."

V-Strom current 1000 has actually redesigned the bike interesting concept to focus on rider-friendliness and equipped with 1,000 cc powerplant that produces an acceleration of business along with the rumbling V-Twin a strong and distinctive. Thin and lightweight aluminum frame, thick padded seat and adjustable windshield make fun V-Strom 1000 Concept and easy-riding, whether its down the street or explore the hinterland.

For enhanced rider confidence when braking, Concept V-Strom 1000 features performance-inspired radial mount caliper front brakes and Antilock Braking System (ABS) to ensure traction on the main road in all weather conditions. The V-Strom 1000 Concept is also equipped with a sophisticated traction control system for improved sports ride, performance and peace of mind to negotiate slippery surfaces with confidence.



The suspension has been completely overhauled with the 1000 V-Strom concept featuring an inverted front fork and single-shock suspension is easy to adjust back style. Inspired by the 1988 DR750S, the first big adventure tourer Suzuki V-Strom 1000 Concept features bold and distinctive styling to create an unparalleled presence.

The concept of V-Strom 1000 features all-new baggage system that provides easy installation, a narrow overall width when mounted and looks clean when it is released. Riding experience will be further enhanced with new features to satisfy even the motorcyclists most discerning adventure.

2013 Suzuki V-Strom 1000 Concept Features

Powerful, rider-friendly machine:

A totally redesigned 1000cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine produces rumbling acceleration joint venture with a powerful V-twin.

Lightweight, balanced Chassis:
Sleek and lightweight aluminum frame, thick padded seat and adjustable windshield provides a convenient easy, and fun to ride character.


Brakes and Suspension:
Performance-inspired radial mount caliper front brakes with Antilock Brake System gives the driver confidence in braking on different road conditions. The concept of V-Strom 1000 is also equipped with inverted front fork and easy to customize the style of a single shock rear suspension.

Distinctive design Styling:
Inspired by the 1988-Suzuki DR750S first big on / off-road machine-Concept V-Strom 1000 features bold and distinctive styling to create an unparalleled presence.

Sophisticated Traction Control System:
Suzuki advanced traction control system is equipped for enhanced sport riding, performance, and peace of mind to negotiate slippery surfaces with confidence.

Storage System:
A new baggage system all designed and tested in line with the overall development of the V-Strom is. Baggage system provides easy installation, a narrow overall width when installed, and look clean when it is released.

2013 Suzuki V-Strom 1000 Concept Pictures Gallery

YAMAHA V-Star 950 Tourer 942 (2009 - Present) Description & History: As a new benchmark in middleweight cruiser class, the V Star 950 brings it all together in an exciting new package. A muscular 942cc air-cooled V-twin engine with plenty of distinctive, big-cruiser character and pulsing torque feel.The new 942cc 60° V-twin engine is both simple and sophisticated. Traditional air cooling is used, but this engine also has four-valve cylinder heads, ceramic-composite-lined cylinders, forged aluminum pistons, and fuel injection for spirited performance. A straightforward SOHC design is used, with special compact roller-type rocker arms, helps to keep the top end lighter for more mass centralization. The stylish 2-into-1 exhaust system has been meticulously tuned to provide an exceptionally pleasing, yet throaty exhaust note, yet it also includes 3-way catalyst technology to reduce air pollution. The tourer version features many accessories like saddlebags, windshield etc.

YAMAHA V-Star 950 Tourer 942 2009 - Present Full Specifications:
Brand: YAMAHA, Model: V Star, Type: V-Star 950 Tourer 2009, Name Year: V-Star 950 Tourer 942 2009 - Present, Engine Type:  air-cooled 4-stroke, V-twin, SOHC, 4-valve, Displacement: 942 cm3, Bore Xstroke: 3.34 x 3.26 in OR 84.8x82.8 mm, Compression: 9:1, Horsepower: -, Torque: -, Fuel System: Fuel Injection, Gearbox: Manual, 5 Speed, Clutch: Wet multi-plate type, Primary Drive: Chain, Final Drive: Belt, Frame: Double cradle, high-tensile steel, Front Suspension: Telescopic fork, 5.3-in.travel, Rear Suspension: Single shock, 4.3-in travel, Front Brake: Hydraulic disc, 320mm, Rear Brake: Hydraulic disc, 298mm, Length: 95.9 in OR 2436 mm, Width: 39.4 in OR 1001 mm, Seat Height: 26.5 in OR 673 mm, Wellbase: 66.3 in OR 1684 mm, Ground Clearance: -, Weight: 612 lbs OR 278 kg, Fuel Capacity: 4.4 gallons OR 4.4 L, Tyres Front: 130/70-18M/C 63H, Tyres Rear: 170/70-16 M/C 75H.