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.

Latest Super Bike

Alan's 2010 Suzuki GSF1250

So, since xmas, I've been easing myself into the mindset of the Bandit owner. Part of that is re-adjusting to the riding experience: it's a big old lump, weighing in about 45kg heavier than the BMW F800R I had so much fun on. At first the mass is very noticeable, but after a few days (including one snatched ride on dry, relatively warm roads between xmas and new year) that feeling passes.

The other thing is mods. Partly that's because the basic Bandit is pretty short of gizmos. So you have to fit them yourself! But the main job so far has been winterproofing the beast. That means heated grips, heated vest connection and plenty of F365 spraying to defeat the salt.