Kawasaki Vulcan 2000 Touring Edition - The grand

Photos are the 2004 Kawasaki Vulcan 2000. It isn't hard to imagine
a whole touring bike make from this great platform for 2005.

In 2004, Kawasaki introduced the largest displacement V-Twin in the world. It shocked, it sold, it brought Kawasaki where it wanted to be, on the top.

With a Bigger is better attitude, they stepped up to the Harley-Davidson and cruiser market with a force. At 760 lbs, and targeted to men, the Vulcan 2000 is position for larger riders that need a larger bike. With a newer update on their classic Vulcan they have already sold the entire 2004 production! There will only be 32 of these in Alberta since demand is in the USA. The Vulcan 2000 is so popular, it would easily seem Kawasaki hasn't just hit a home run in the market, but they hit a Grand Slam!!

Kawasaki let us in on their "secret" hop-skip-jump program to put Kawasaki way ahead of the competition and surprise the consumer with anything he/she is expecting! The hop was the year 2003 with the introduction of attention grabbing motorcycles like the ZX6R and ZX6RR as well as the Vulcan 1600 Classic and 650cc ATV. The skip is 2004, with the introduction of the ZX10R, Vulcan 2000. The jump will be the 2005 models and the introduction of (at least) a "beefed-up" Kawasaki Vuncan 2000 touring edition and changes to the Nomad model as well. Since the Nomad since 1999 hasn't been changed. Unfortunately, we don't know what changes are to take place for the Nomad 1500, just that it is coming.

Pictured 2004 Kawasaki Nomad 1500... one last time before the changes.

So there you have it, two new models excepted to arrive in 2005. A Kawasaki Vulcan 2000 touring edition and major changes to the Kawasaki Nomad touring bike!

Kawasaki Vuncan 2000 description:

In the cruiser category bigger is definitely better, and the super-macho new Vulcan 2000 is the largest displacement V-Twin in the world. This high-powered flagship machine is unlike anything in the cruiser category and completely redefines Kawasaki's brand DNA in this important market. Complementing the engine's massive size and impressive power output is an attractive style that mixes modern and traditional design elements in a streamlined, highly integrated package. Centrepiece of the Vulcan 2000's remarkable styling is the streamlined headlight nacelle enclosing a "gatling" projector-beam headlamp.

Engine displacement is an incredible 2,053 cc, making the Vulcan 2000 the largest displacement production V-Twin in history. Not only does this muscular power plant produce massive amounts of torque and horsepower, it is also one of the best-looking VTwin engines in the world, with the huge gracefully tapered cylinders attractively accentuated by the long pushrod tubes and curvaceous engine covers.

The "stretched" low-and-long chassis is just as impressive. As the top model in Kawasaki's cruiser line-up, every detail expresses the high quality, superb comfort and feeling of trustworthiness customers expect from a flagship machine.

2005 Ducati Supersport 1000DS

Click to Enlarge for Desktop Sized Photo

• 2005 Ducati Supersport 1000DS

After more than three decades of design development, the Ducati Supersport is considered an icon in the modern motorcycling world with a reputation for great handling, smooth power delivery, versatility and light weight. For 2005, the Ducati Supersport 1000 carries the family heritage proudly into the future while adhering to and improving on the time-tested formula of its predecessors.

Confidence-inspiring and built with quality throughout, the Supersport models are a great way to enter the world of Ducati sport motorcycles. The air-cooled engine expresses the essential practical and pragmatic Ducati philosophy and has significant design and application advantages.

A bike that’s fun to ride, beautiful to look at, and easy to maintain.

Features & Benefits

Supersport 1000 DS: Easy to handle but high in performance, it sports a powerful 992 cc Dual Spark fuel-injected Desmo engine, an advanced trellis frame, and superior suspension to ensure top of the line performance and handling. Confidence-inspiring and built with quality throughout, the Supersport models are a great way to enter the world of Ducati sport motorcycles.

In all, the 1000 DS is the most advanced air-cooled Ducati Desmo engine ever designed.

Engine/Drivetrain

Type L-twin cylinder, 2 valves per cylinder Desmodromic; air cooled
Displacement 992 cc
BorexStroke 94 x 71.5 mm
Compression Ratio 10:1
Power 69.9 kw - 95 hp @ 7750 rpm
Torque 9.7 kgm @ 5750 rpm
Fuel injection Marelli electronic fuel injection, 45 mm throttle body
Exhaust 2 aluminium mufflers with 3-way catalytic converter (non-catalytic on USA version)
Emissions Euro2 (except USA version)

TRASMISSION

Gearbox 6 speed
Ratios 1st 37/15, 2nd 30/17, 3rd 27/20, 4th 24/22, 5th 23/24, 6th 24/28
Primary drive Straight cut gears; ratio 1.84
Final drive Chain; Front sprocket 15; Rear sprocket 38
Clutch Dry multiplate with hydraulic control

Chassis/Suspension

Frame Tubular steel trellis
Wheelbase 1395 mm / 54.9 in
Rake 24°
Front suspension Showa 43 mm upside-down fully adjustable lightweight fork
Front wheel travel 120 mm / 4.7 in
Front brake 2 x 320 mm semi-floating discs, fixed 4-piston caliper
Front wheel 5-spoke light alloy 3.50 x 17
Front tyre 120/70 ZR 17
Rear suspension Progressive cantilever linkage with fully adjustable Öhlins monoshock with length adjustment. Aluminium swingarm
Rear wheel travel 145 mm / 5.7 in
Rear brake 245 mm disc, 2-piston caliper
Rear wheel 5-spoke light alloy 5.50 x 17
Rear tyre 180/55 ZR 17
Fuel tank capacity 16 L / 4.2 US gal (includes 4 L / 1 US gal reserve)
Weight * 179.4 kg / 396 lbs
Seat height 820 mm / 32.3 in
Instruments Electronic panel: speedometer, rev counter, high beam indicator, turn signals, oil pressure warning light, neutral light, low fuel warning light, immobilizer system, LCD for clock and oil temperature, LCD odometer and trip meter
Warranty 2 years unlimited mileage
Tank Colours Red, yellow, metallic dark grey
Frame and Wheel colours Metallic dark grey
Versions Two seats

* = The weight includes battery, lubricants and, where applicable, cooling liquid.

Additional Features

New for 2004 The Supersport remains a reference point in the world of Ducati dedicated to motorcyclists who seek the thrills of sports riding from a truly thoroughbred, agile machine. The Supersport's strong links with the past have certainly not held back its development. Over the years the bike has become a perfect synthesis in design, combining the looks and riding style of yesteryear with the most modern, flexible two valve engine in the entire Ducati range.

Accessories

If that’s not enough, you can personalise the Supersport to your own specifications by choosing from the many items available in the Ducati Performance accessories catalogue.

Harley-Davidson XL883R

• Industry News, Rumors, Spy Shots and information

Total Motorcycle is constantly on the look out for new 2005 and 2006 motorcycle model information, industry rumors and spy shots. As we hear, conduct interviews and find the latest information we will post it here for you to read, share and enjoy.

2005 Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster

2005 Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster

• 2005 Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster 883R

Take a look at what just came down victory lane. The Sportster® 883R motorcycle is back, and it’s cleaner and meaner than ever. We stayed true to the authentic H-D orange racing paint scheme with a racier checkered flag graphic. But this incarnation gets the full blacked-out treatment: black calipers, fork sliders, air cleaner cover, handlebars, and rear springs. We even blacked-out the rubber-mounted Evolution® engine so it looks as good as it feels. Staggered shorty dual exhaust pipes. Two-up seat and passenger footpegs. Dual front disc brakes so even stopping is fun. The list goes on. But even with all the changes, one thing remains constant. The Sportster® 883R will always have a finish line in its sights.

The Sportster XL883R pays tribute to the famed Harley-Davidson XR dirt track racers with eye-catching, race-inspired styling elements. Most noticeable are the blacked-out Evolution powertrain and race-ready 883R graphics on the classic, orange 3.3-gallon fuel tank. A staggered shorty dual exhaust system and dual front disc brakes reflect the 883R's competitive DNA.

Like all 2005 model year Sportsters, the 883R offers uncompromised comfort and handling thanks to its redesigned-in-2004 Evolution engine that's rubber-mounted to a stronger, more rigid frame.

XL883R Sportster 883R features:

Rubber-mounted XL Evolution 883 engine
Blacked out engine, calipers, fork sliders, air cleaner cover, handlebars and rear springs.
Silver 13 spoke wheels
Race checkered tank
New 1-inch diameter rear axle and stiffer swingarm
Wide dirt-track inspired handlebars
Two up seat
Passenger footpegs
Staggered shorty dual exhaust
Mid-mount foot controls
Dual front disk brakes
Classic 3.3-gallon fuel tank

Like all 2005 model year Sportsters, the 883R offers uncompromised comfort and handling thanks to its redesigned-in-2004 Evolution engine that’s rubber-mounted to a stronger, more rigid frame.

DIMENSIONS & SPECIFICATIONS:

Length 2288.5 mm

Seat Height

Laden(1) 713.7 mm

Unladen 745.0 mm

Ground Clearance 141.1 mm

Rake Steering Head/Trail 29.6º / 116.8 mm

Wheelbase 1524.0 mm

Fuel Capacity(2) 12.5 L

Oil Capacity 3.4 L

Weight

Dry Weight 254.0 kg

Running Order N/A

POWERTRAIN

Engine(3) Evolution®

Displacement 883 cm³

Bore x Stroke 76.20 mm x 96.82 mm

Engine Torque(4)(5) 69.0 nm @ 4300 rpm

Fuel System(6) Carburetor

Compression Ratio 8.9:1

Liters per 100 KM(7)

Carb. 4.1 hwy / 4.9 city

ESPFI N/A

Primary Drive Chain

Gear Ratio (overall)

1st 10.944

2nd 7.524

3rd 5.834

4th 4.806

5th 4.071

WHEELS/TIRES

Wheels(8)

Front Silver 13 spoke cast aluminum alloy

Rear Silver 13 spoke cast aluminum alloy

Tire Size

Front 100/90-19 57H

Rear 150/80B16 71H

ELECTRICAL

Electronics Optional security system

Instruments Electronic speedometer; odometer; resettable tripmeter; diagnostic readout

Indicator Lamps Oil pressure; engine diagnostics

CHASSIS

Brakes (diameter x width)

Front 292.1 mm x 5.08 mm dual

Rear 292.1 mm x 5.84 mm

Lean Angle (per SAEJ1168) 32º / 32º

Exhaust System Staggered shorty duals

COLOR OPTIONS(9)

Vivid black, racing orange


UNIQUE FEATURES

Wide, dirt track inspired handlebar; lowered front and rear suspension; dual front disc brakes; two-up seat; racier fuel tank graphics


PRICING(10)
MSRP

Solid $ 10,359

Pearl or Sunglo $ 10,689

Two-tone N/A

Custom N/A

Wheel option N/A

H-D® factory security system $410



All models feature 5-speed transmission and carbon fiber belt final drive; 40 mm constant velocity carburetor with enrichner and accelerator pump (except Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection models); multi-plate clutch with diaphragm spring in oil bath; and two-year, unlimited-mileage warranty.

We reserve the right to discontinue models or change specifications at any time without incurring any obligations.

Attention: The vehicle in the configuration shown and many of the accessories for this vehicle are not available for sale or use in several countries outside the U.S. Specifications and vehicle availability may vary from market to market depending on local importation and registration laws. Please check with your local retailerfor details.

Specifications may not match those of official certification in some markets due to timing of content release, variance in testing methods, and/or vehicle differences. Customers seeking officially recognized regulatory specifications for their vehicle should refer to certification documents and/or contact their respective retailer or distributor.

The Competition Act requires Deeley Harley-Davidson Canada, to advise that the Retailer is under no obligation to accept the suggested retail prices, and may sell at any price he chooses. If he/she sells at prices other than the suggested prices, he/she will not suffer in any way his business relations with Deeley Harley-Davidson Canada. Prices are subject to change without notice. Retailer preparation and freight are extra.



(1) Measurement reflects 180 lb. / 81.7 kg operator weight.

(2) Includes reserve on carburetor-equipped models.

(3) Recommended 91 octane or higher fuel (R+M)/2 (87 octane or higher for XL 883 models).

(4) Per SAE J607.

(5) Values shown are nominal. Performance varies by country.

(6) Standard and optional fuel systems may vary by country.

(7) Based on tests conducted under ideal lab conditions per U.S.E.P.A. test procedures. Your mileage will vary depending on your personal riding habits, weather conditions, trip length, vehicle condition and vehicle configuration. Break-in mileage will vary.

(8) Standard and optional wheels may vary by country and region.

(9) Availability of colors may vary from retailer to retailer and is subject to change without notice.

(10) Prices listed are the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices. Options such as color, laced wheel and fuel systems are available at additional cost. Prices exclude retailer setup, taxes, title and licensing and are subject to change. Retailer prices may vary.

BMW

• Industry News, Rumors, Spy Shots and information

Total Motorcycle is constantly on the look out for new 2005 and 2006 motorcycle model information, industry rumors and spy shots. As we hear, conduct interviews and find the latest information we will post it here for you to read, share and enjoy.

Don't forget to check out our -= Spy Shots, Concept & Prototype Motorcycle Photo Gallery =- with dozens of photos for you to enjoy!

• BMW K Series Bike - Radical Inline BMW?

September 29, 2003

New K-BMW challenge secret : Look the new BMW of the K-series - with Inline engine! First photos and observations suggest a completely new engine and revolutionary solutions with the chassis. The motorcycle is already in the testing in the public traffic. Could be publicly revied in the Munich Motorcycle Show (InterMot) end 2004, with sales to begin thereafter.

Honda Rune - Style. Attitude. Performance.

Could 2004 really be the last year for the Honda Valkyrie Rune?

The Honda Valkyrie Rune. A dream. An icon. A legend. A machine that will change the definition of cruiser. Forever. Introducing the Rune. It'll only take a second to know it's different, but you'll appreciate it for a lifetime.Style. Attitude. Performance.

Do you remember the T2 concept bike Honda revealed in the March/April 2001 issue of Honda Red Rider? Essentially, the Valkyrie Rune takes the T2 concept to the production line, and will be available in limited numbers. The Valkyrie Rune incorporates a unique diamond-shaped aluminum frame for robust strength along with light weight, plus a fuel-injected 1832cc engine based on the GL1800 power plant. Before you think the Valkyrie Rune is merely a hot-rod exercise in radical style, take a look at the bike’s innovative suspension systems.

Meanwhile, styling element after styling element tears at your eyeballs, vying for attention. Where to look? At the chromed cylinder head covers evocative of muscle car hardware? The gorgeous, smoothly flowing six-into-two exhaust system so artfully sculpted into place? The brawny disc brakes, which are the largest ever mounted on a Honda motorcycle? Or how about the gracefully flowing lines of the neo/retro low-slung bodywork with the solo seat that beckons you to slide aboard for the ride of your life? The Valkyrie Rune redefines the ultimate performance custom.

The information we got from Honda is that 2005 could very well be the LAST YEAR for the Honda Rune. If anything small will happen it could be a new paint job for 2005. But information has it that Honda could be redesigning the 2006 Honda Rune into something new... Asked if they are considering any of the Rune T-Concept bikes gave us a "no comment" responce...

If the 2004 model impressed us, 2006 will surely hold some Honda Magic!

The Honda Valkyrie Rune concept motorcycles, T1, T2, T3 and T4. The current (2004) Honda Rune is closest to T3. Could the new 2005/2006 one be T1, T3 or T4?

• Honda CBR1000RR - Replacing the RC57

Meet the machine that's going to take Honda's Superbike championship legacy to the next dimension: the all-new CBR1000RR. Inspired by our World Champion RC211V MotoGP bike, with revolutionary Unit-Pro Link suspension and HESD, new-tech Honda Electronic Steering Damper, it's ready to race—and ready to win.

Current Honda Factory Super Bike the RC 51

Honda is extremely confident in their new CBR1000RR super sport bike, so condident that we were told it could replace the current RC51 on the race track!

UPDATE: Just in, expect changes to the CBR1000R in 2005. The 2005 Honda CBR1000R will be named the "A" model. Sorry, no further details.

• Honda 2005 Silverwing 600 - competing with the Suzuki Burgman 650.

Honda Silverwing 600 ABS

Sales have been really good for the Suzuki Bergman 650 and Honda is taking notice. So much notice infact that they are planning to bring the Honda Silverwing 600 to Canada for the 2005 model year!

The new 2005 Honda Silverwing could also have the ABS as well.

• Honda CRF450x - Introducing aspiring young hotshots to the fine art of knee dragging

2004 Honda CRF250X will be simular to the 2005 CRF450X

Visit the official Honda NSR50R webpage

Yet another "could be" model from Total Motorcycle, the Honda CRF450x for 2005.

Just like Honda did for the CRF250X they could do for the CFR450X. The CRF250X was a sure-fire formula for building the most serious off-road motorcycle to enter the dirt market in a long, long time. The X marks the spot where you’ll find a full-on, competition-oriented, off-road machine, coming from Honda.

• Industry News, Rumors, Spy Shots and information

Total Motorcycle is constantly on the look out for new 2005 and 2006 motorcycle model information, industry rumors and spy shots. As we hear, conduct interviews and find the latest information we will post it here for you to read, share and enjoy.

Japan's Honda unit to build new mini-vehicle plant for 50 billion yen

Japan's Honda Motor Co Ltd (NYSE:HMC) said Tuesday its subsidiary Yachiyo Industry Co Ltd will spend about 50 billion yen to build a new mini-vehicle plant in central Japan, aimed at improving efficiency and increasing market competitiveness.

The company plans to start assembling engines in the first half of 2009. It plans to begin assembly of mini-vehicles from the second half of 2010, said Honda.

The total annual production capacity of the new plant and an existing plant is 240,000 units, which is almost the same as the current output level, the company said.

( 1 US dollar = 102.10 yen)
kaori.kaneko@thomson.com
Copyright Thomson Financial News Limited 2007. All rights reserved.

The copying, republication or redistribution of Thomson Financial News Content, including by framing or similar means, is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Thomson Financial News.

Hero Honda Karizma R

Design and Styling
Karizma R looks very stylish with black alloy die-cast wheels, dual light tailpiece, front indicators, the fairing, silencer unit, stepped up seat, panel shapes and new yellow black instrument binnacle. The fairing is not a full one which can be seen on sports bikes but nevertheless it was never before there on any Indian bike. The tank doesn’t look big like the Pulsar’s bulky tank but it holds 15 litres of fuel. The trapezoidal headlamp unit up front looks great and the Illumination is brilliant which is unmatched by any bike in the country. The guide lamps are superb and borrowed from the Royal Enfields. The tank recesses easily accommodated the legs of our tallest testers. The amber backlighting for instruments is exciting. Being connected directly to the battery, all lights and instruments work independently of the rpm of the engine, and are a boon at night.

Comfort
The sporty position of the seat offers the best possible seating position for the rider although the pillion seat could have been a little bit longer. Even on long journeys,the back support is very good and the front shock-absorbers do a great job of damping the vibrations. The rear shock-absorbers are perfect for Indian Road conditions which mostly consist of pot-holes and speed breakers. The rear rider’s comfort levels aren’t all that great and could have done with some more thinking and concentration on that aspect.

Ride and Handling
Though the riding position is very sporty and similar to that on the older CBZ, it feels different. The long wheelbase at 1355mm helps stability. Gripping the wide bars, the rush of pleasure with its linear torque is a feeling difficult to put in words. Stability at any and every speed is top class. Turn-in is excellent and cornering is admirable. The way the suspension is set up and mated with the single downtube conventional frame is excellent.

Karizma R.

Engine and Performance
It is powered by 17BHP 223cc single cylinder engine from the stables of Honda,who are possibly the best engine manufacturers world-wide. The shift lever is a sporty one and has a 1 down 4 up sports-bike like shift pattern. The motor is silky smooth across all bands of power and never shows signs of tiring and goes on and on and on. It seems as if you still have loads of power even at speeds of 100kmph. The idling speed of the engine is best set around. The gearbox employs a tall close ratio fourth and fifth gear with lower gearing for the first three gears. This works out well giving one sufficient power out on the highway, yet not making the bike tough to ride around town. A wet multi-plate clutch is employed and feels perfect, with just the correct amount of feedback. Thumb the starter and the first thing you will notice is the refinement of the engine. Here is Pulsar's comparison with Karizma R.

Fuel Economy

Equipped with a larger capacity engine, the Karizma’s mileage figures depend on how it is ridden. Under city riding conditions, the bike returned 30kpl and on the highway testing runs surprised with an impressive 45kpl at a speed of 70kph. The main important things are that you shouldn’t open up the throttle and try speeding away. Gear shifts and acceleration should be gradual. A smooth driving style with minimal gear shifts is to be followed. Overall is a great bike with superb refinement, comfort and great handling. It is a highly capable and stylish bike but high price puts it out of reach for many.

2008 Honda Accord VTi-L (AT)

Presenting the 7th Generation, 2007 Honda Accord – a perfect combination of dynamic styling, inspiring luxury and superior performance that gives you an unrivalled presence.

Exterior

Body colored door mirrors and door handles

Chrome pull-out door handles

Exhaust pipe finisher

Headlamps with auto-off function

LED rear lamps

Printed rear antenna

Rear bumper garnish

Side step garnish

Side-turn indicators on door mirrors

Variable and intermittent windshield wipers

Interior

Chrome inner door handles

Cobra gear shift knob

Front CD storage with lid

Gliding glove box design

Illumination control

Leather and wood steering wheel

Map light

Retractable assist grips

Sunglass holder with feather touch

Woodgrain with chrome front console panel

Comfort & Convenience

Advanced NVH (Noise Vibration Harshness) controlling

Double level central storage console with power outlet

Front center armrest

Lighting alarm

Lockable fold down rear seat

Lockable rear center armrest with trunk access

Power window operation after ignition is off

Remote control power windows

Vanity mirrors on sunvisors with Illumination

Safety

Key, seatbelt & lighting alarm

Parking sensors (front 2, rear 4)