Features 9 Nov 2017

Countdown: Headline models of EICMA

Eight mega new 2018 models that premiered this week in Milan.

The EICMA show in Milan, Italy, is always one of the most exclusive international events of the year and this year has been no different. Manufacturers have been unveiling 2018 models on a daily basis this week and – as difficult as it is! – we’ve narrowed down eight exciting new production models (no prototypes included) that have featured as a Bike article on CycleOnline.com.au so far for this latest Countdown feature.

Source: Supplied.

8. 2018 Husqvarna Vitpilen 701:
Re-entering the street bike market, Husqvarna’s EICMA premier was headlined by its production Vitpilen 701. The model has a super sleek design, and boasts a 692.7cc single cylinder engine along with modern and advanced electronics. In what appears to be an already impressive package, the bike is also fitted with high quality WP and Brembo components.

7. 2018 Triumph Tiger 1200:
Triumph’s new Tiger 1200 is available in two options: the XR and the XC. The XR model is is tailor-made to deliver the ultimate on-road/off-road adventure, while the XC model has been specifically designed to respond to the most challenging of adventures thanks to a range of specialised off-road features offering even more rough terrain capabilities.

6. 2018 Kawasaki Z900RS Cafe:
Following the recent release of Kawasaki’s Z900RS, a Cafe variant was unveiled at EICMA. The modern-classic model boasts an impressive 948cc-class inline four powerplant, and comes with a selection of riding modes. The Cafe model has been specifically built as a base for riders to customise the big-bore machine, which Kawasaki has confirmed there will be a lost of genuine accessories on offer for riders give their bike that personalised feel.

5. 2018 Yamaha Tracer 900GT:
Yamaha’s Tarcer 900GT comes off the back of the successful Tracer 900, however boasts a selection of neat features that include cruise control, heated grips and quickshifter along with a host of other GT-exclusive parts. It utilises a premium suspension package that features fully adjustable front forks offering the rider the ability to set their bike up to suit different loads and conditions, plus the forks are completed with a beautiful gold finish.

Source: Supplied.

4. 2018 Honda CRF1000L2 Africa Twin Adventure Sports:
Based off the updated CRF1200L Africa Twin, the Adventure Sports edition has been designed for riders who want to take their off-road riding more seriously and aggressively. Honda’s Adventure Sports model has updated, longer-travel, fully-adjustable Showa suspension, resulting in added ground clearance, along with all the neat features and benefits of the standard variant.

3. 2018 KTM 790 Duke:
Certainly a favourite release to come out of EICMA, KTM’s 790 Duke has finally made it into production, one year on from when its prototype was unveiled. The naked bike punches out 105hp and 86Nm of torque from the extremely compact and all-new LC8c parallel twin engine with an unrivalled electronics package. Along with that, it features an up and down quickshifter that takes its name extremely seriously, customised ride modes and personalised traction control.

2. 2018 Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX:
Kawasaki’s new supercharged Ninja H2 SX range has definitely struck some attention, boasting a mega inline four 998cc engine. Along with its impressive powerplant, the Ninja H2 SX features much more advanced technology and electronic rider aids, such as Kawasaki’s latest IMU-equipped electronics package, cruise control and Kawasaki Cornering Management Function.

1. 2018 Ducati Panigale V4 S:
The most exciting launch of EICMA is by far the announcement of Ducati’s Panigale V4 S machine, which marks the the first mass-produced Ducati to mount a four-cylinder engine, derived directly from the MotoGP Desmosedici. With an engine displacement of 1103cc, 214hp and a power/weight ratio of 1.1 hp/kg, the Panigale V4 replaces the 1299 twin-cylinder at the top of the Ducati supersport line-up. To complete the package, the V4 S model is fitted Ohlins Smart EC 2.0 system, Ohlins NIX 30 forks, Ohlins TTX 36 shock absorber and Ohlins steering damper.

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