Latest Super Bike

Yamaha's new XT1200Z

Yamaha has gone right for the jugular with a design straight of the 'Adventure' market mould; large lumpy engine with loads of torque, long(ish) travel suspension, high comfortable riding position, steel panniers, large tank and Dakar-esque looks.

The in-line twin cylinder engine should make the Ténéré competitive with 84ft-lb of torque. Its narrow design, by comparison to the R1200GS, is much like its other V-twin engined rival the KTM 990 Adventure. A claimed power figure of 104bhp, although ball-park, is a bit low for our liking mind you. The engine also features Yamaha's tried and tested electronic ignition system (YCC-T) and will have a three-stage traction control plus a two-mode 'D-mode' switch to engage sport or touring power options.

Running gear is practical and conventional for this class of bike; aluminium, spoked rims are the norm rather than cast type (they're stronger, should you go off-roading).

What Yamaha are calling a “smart ABS system” claims to predict locking wheels, rather than reacting after the moment like most. The brakes area also linked, front and rear. Shaft drive will be a huge bonus in terms of maintenance, despite the additional weight it brings.