Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Suzuki 2008 BurgmanTM 650 Executive


Get ready for the ride of your life - on the stylish Burgman 650 Executive, it has all the great features of the Burgman 650 with ABS, an electic adjustable windshield and a passenger backrest.

With the largest engine in its class, the Burgman 650 rewards you with strong acceleration around town or on the highway. Its refined fuel injection system offers instantaneous throttle response. And, for convenient operation and incredibly smooth performance, it has a technically advanced Suzuki Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (SECVTTM).

Wherever you ride, you and your passenger will appreciate the smooth, comfortable ride, plush, responsive suspension, and a deep, well-padded seat complete with a backrest for the rider. Large floorboards and spacious ergonomics further contribute to your comfort.

The Burgman 650 is as practical as it is stylish. It has terrific storage space, including a cavernous underseat storage area capable of holding two full-coverage helmets. What's more, three front compartments with lids allow easy storage of and access to your smaller items.

Monday, November 26, 2007

YAMAHA C3 2008



Key Features:
Old-school "box" design scooter accentuates cubic space - hence the name C3 - while it stresses function and simplicity.
Completely modern running gear including a fuel-injected engine makes this one super-economical to operate. The C3 will take you a long, long way on a single 1.2-gallon tank of gas.
High-function features include big tires on cast aluminum wheels, a motorcycle-type fork and handlebar.
Side-hinged locking storage compartment swallows up to nine gallons of gear.
Amazing fuel effi ciency—the C3 will get up to 116 mpg and holds 1.2 gallons of gas.*
Engine:
Liquid-cooled three-valve, four-stroke engine is powerful, quiet and low-maintenance.
Electronic fuel injection: A 19mm Mikuni throttle body provides optimal mixture in all conditions and easy cold starts.
Amazing fuel efficiency—the C3 will take you a long, long way on a single 1.2-gallon tank of gas.
Fully automatic, V-belt transmission provides easy, twist-the-throttle-and-go operation.
Pushbutton electric starting (with back-up kickstarter) for ultimate ease of operation.
Catalytic converter and air-injection system meet the most stringent emissions regulations - even future ones.
Chassis/Suspension:
Fat, 120/90-10 front and rear tires offer excellent traction and rugged looks.
Large-diameter steel tube frame for strength, long life and great handling.
Hydraulic motorcycle-type front fork with 2.3 inches of travel delivers a smooth ride.
Center stand for excellent parking convenience.
Motorcycle-type handlebar can be swapped out easily for a different bend or style.
Unlike most scooters, the front apron turns along with the fork for style and function.
Additional Features:
Wide, comfortable seat is only 28.9 inches from the pavement.
Nine gallons worth of locking underseat storage is perfect for hauling backpacks, groceries or whatever.
Retro/functional style is designed for individual customization.
Cool instrument display provides a speedometer, odometer, fuel gauge, high beam indicator light and engine management indicator lights.
Push-to-cancel-type turn signals enhance ease of use.


Engine
Type 49cc liquid-cooled, SOHC 4-stroke single; 3-valves

Bore x Stroke 38.0mm x 43.5mm

Compression Ratio 12.0:1

Carburetion Electronic fuel injection

Ignition TCI

Transmission Constantly variable automatic

Final Drive V-belt


Chassis
Suspension/Front Telescopic fork, 2.3-in travel

Suspension/Rear Unit swing, 2.2-in travel

Brakes/Front 110mm drum

Brakes/Rear 110mm drum

Tires/Front 120/90-10

Tires/Rear 120/90-10


Dimensions
Length 73.0 in

Width 27.0 in

Height 41.1 in

Seat Height 28.9 in

Wheelbase 50.4 in

Ground Clearance 4.5 in

Fuel Capacity 1.2 gal

Dry Weight 187 lb

2008 YAMAHA Zuma




Key Features:
Back by popular demand, the sporty Zuma is a fantastic combination of fun and practicality.
New carburetor settings and exhaust catalyzers for clean exhaust emissions.
49cc of reed-valve-inducted, Autolube-injected, two-stroke performance keeps the Zuma at the head of the 50cc pack.
Fully automatic transmission and pushbutton electric starting make the Zuma super-convenient for all riders.
There’s room for two atop the Zuma’s seat and lots of locking storage beneath it.
Engine:
Feisty 49cc, air-cooled two-stroke engine features a high 7.0:1 compression ratio for strong, usable power—perfect for around-town performance.
Reed-valve induction provides excellent throttle response and power delivery.
14mm Teikei carburetor ensures seamless fuel delivery and crisp throttle response.
Fan-assisted cooling system keeps engine temperatures reliably under control, even while idling at stoplights—for maximum efficiency and longer engine life.
Exclusive Autolube Oil Injection System ensures no mess or hassle of premixing fuel and oil.
Easy-to-read indicator light located on instrument panel alerts rider when oil level gets low.
Easy, dependable electric starting with backup kickstarter.
Fully automatic, V-belt transmission ensures easy, twist-the-throttle-and-go operation.
DC-CDI system provides precise, high-voltage spark for seamless engine performance and excellent reliability.
Automatic choke makes cold starting a cinch.
Chassis/Suspension:
Step-through frame design allows easy mounting.
Long wheelbase (50.2 inches) and large dimensions (74.4”L x 27.8”W x 43.7”H) enhance rider comfort with roomier ergonomics.
Five-spoke cast wheels wear fat, low-profile 120/90-10 front and 130/90-10 rear tires that deliver tons of grip and attitude.
Telescopic fork features beefy outer tubes for strength, while slider shrouds help protect inner tubes from debris.
Telescopic front fork with 2.6 inches of travel smoothly soaks up what the road throws the rider’s way.
Single rear shock with 2.4 inches of travel ensures plush ride quality in either solo or two-up mode.
155mm hydraulic front disc and rear drum brakes combine for serious stopping power.
Additional Features:
Super-sporty styling and bodywork create a racy package with an aggressive profile and riding position.
Wide front apron and floorboards enhance Zuma’s sporty profile while providing exceptional wind/weather protection and all-day comfort.
Headlight system features dual bulbs with housings mounted atop (vs. recessed) the fairing for great visibility and a sporty finish.
Huge underseat storage compartment, perfect for hauling schoolbooks or groceries.
Plush dual seat is long and wide for improved rider and passenger comfort.
Sturdy rear cargo rack boasts stainless finish and features extensions that double as passenger grabrails.
Electronic fuel gauge lets rider easily keep track of gas level.
Easy-to-read instrument panel features turn signal, high-beam and low-oil indicator lights.
Push-to-cancel-type turn signals enhance ease of use.
Front and rear side reflectors help maximize conspicuity in city traffic.


Engine
Type 49cc air-cooled 2-stroke single reed-valve inducted

Bore x Stroke 40.0mm x 39.2mm

Compression Ratio 7.0:1

Carburetion 14mm Teikei

Ignition DC CDI

Transmission V-belt automatic


Chassis
Suspension/Front Telescopic fork

Suspension/Rear Single shock

Brakes/Front 115mm disc

Brakes/Rear Drum

Tires/Front 120/90-10

Tires/Rear 130/90-10


Dimensions
Length 74.4 in

Width 27.8 in

Height 43.7 in

Seat Height 30.1 in

Wheelbase 50.2 in

Dry Weight N/A

Fuel Capacity 1.5 gal

2008 Vino 125


Key Features:
Cool retro style covers a modern overhead-cam four-stroke engine; fashion and function.
Upscale scooter components include a telescopic front fork and a front disc brake.
There’s room for lots of gear and a passenger.
Modern emissions control equipment, including a catalyst, reduces pollution.
Great fuel efficiency — the Vino 125 will get up to 89 mpg and holds 1.2 gallons of gas.*
Engine:
Sporty 124cc, air-cooled, SOHC four-stroke two-valve engine puts out strong, predictable power with incredible gas mileage.
Forced air cooling system keeps engine temperatures reliably under control, even while idling at stoplights, for maximum efficiency and longer engine life.
Easy, dependable electric starting with backup kickstarter make starting a breeze.
Fully automatic V-belt transmission ensures easy, twist-the-throttle-and-go operation.
CDI ignition system provides precise, high-voltage spark for seamless engine performance and excellent reliability.
New Mikuni BS26 carburetor with automatic choke and heater makes cold starting a snap.
Special fuel tank emissions system includes a sealed-type gas cap, air filter, roller valve and canister that controls gasoline evaporation and reduces air pollution.
Muffler incorporates catalyst coating and muffler purifier device to reduce noise and air pollution.
Chassis/Suspension:
180mm front disc brake and rear drum supply strong, reliable stopping power.
3.50-10 front and rear tires offer great traction.
Open, step-through steel-tube frame design allows easy mounting and dismounting.
Telescopic front fork with 2.3 inches of travel delivers superb bump-absorbing performance.
Rear single-shock suspension system with 2.1 inches of travel provides comfort and great ride quality.
Additional Features:
Wide, thickly padded two-up seat ensures incomparable rider and passenger comfort and style.
Huge underseat storage compartment that can hold a full-face helmet and a rugged rear rack perfect for hauling schoolbooks or groceries.
Cosmopolitan styling takes the Vino 125 to the next level with a chromed speedometer, mirrors, handlebar, and cast aluminum alloy styled three-spoke wheels.
Large, single 12V 35/35-watt multireflector halogen headlight maximizes nighttime visibility and electroplated headlight housing enhances styling.
Bright 8/27-watt single multireflector taillight for great visibility.
Full-size floorboards and wide, sculpted front fairing provide splash and wind protection and classic styling accent.
Electronic fuel gauge keeps track of the gas level.
Easy-to-read instrument panel features turn signal and high beam indicator lights.
Three-in-one main switch combines ignition, steering lock and seat lock opener for operator convenience.
Front and rear side reflectors help maximize conspicuity in city traffic.


Engine
Type 124cc air-cooled 4-stroke single; SOHC

Bore x Stroke 51.5mm x 60mm

Compression Ratio 9.8:1

Carburetion 26mm Mikuni

Ignition CDI

Transmission Centrifugal clutch; V-belt automatic

Final Drive V-belt


Chassis
Suspension/Front Telescopic fork, 2.3-in travel

Suspension/Rear Single shock, 2.1-in travel

Brakes/Front 180mm disc

Brakes/Rear 110mm drum

Tires/Front 3.50-10 51J

Tires/Rear 3.50-10 51J


Dimensions
Length 69.0 in

Width 27.5 in

Height 41.8 in

Seat Height 29.9 in

Wheelbase 48.4 in

Ground Clearance 3.7 in

Dry Weight 229 lb

Fuel Capacity 1.2 gal

Saturday, November 24, 2007

World’s first electronic control belt CVT“Honda S Matic” for 250cc class scooters



The world’s first electronic control belt CVT “Honda S Matic” for 250cc class scooters has been applied to the 2004 FORZA Model. The high-friction rubber belt and aluminum alloy pulley are employed in the transmission system which is housed in the unit swing engine having the same shape as that of a conventional scooter.The “Honda S Matic” system has realized fuel economy, low exhaust emissions, quietness and high driving performance at low costs. Such features are unattainable with conventional CVTs. One of the big features is that the system permits the rider to select a shift mode from a number of patterns such as the D mode and S mode for automatic shift, and the M mode for manual shift. By that device, the rider can have a choice of reduction ratios in various road conditions such as a flat road, mountain road, etc., and be able to enjoy exciting riding easily. Even though small changes of the reduction ratio through aging exist, there are merits such as no change in the clutch engagement point or in the shift characteristics, no lowering of the maximum speed, etc.At this point, let us introduce technical details of this epoch-making transmission system, which broadens the possibility of scooters in terms of the comfort and joy of easy riding.

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

Aprilia 850 Mana Auto 2007



The CVT system is a belt and variable diameter pulley system that provides an infinite number of gear ratios, making the bike smooth and very easy to ride. It also has some performance advantages and it will satisfyingly out drag almost anything (including top of the range sports bikes) from the traffic lights.

Aprilia have set up the CVT with three automatic settings and a pseudo sequential seven speed manual. The auto settings are touring (for good economy), sport (for maximum performance) and rain (for a softer power delivery for good traction in the wet), and they are interchangeable on the move with a handlebar switch. The pseudo manual option is controlled also via the handlebars (see pic) or through the traditional left foot selector. There is no clutch lever.

The commuter is clearly in Aprilia's sights here, with a bike that is easy to ride and well suited to town riding, but also has the convenience of a helmet storage in the false fuel tank, with the airbox being moved to between and to the left of the v-twin cylinders and the real fuel tank to under the seat.

The engine is a torquey, easily maintained and economical 90° v twin developed initially by parent Piaggio's engine department with 75bhp and 56lbft, single overhead cams, a dry sump and stainless steel exhaust.

The frame is a rigid tubular steel trellis design that should make the bike handle like an Aprilia should.

The front end is chunky 43mm upside down forks with radial brakes, steel braided lines and 320mm discs.

The rear has an aluminium swing arm with the shock absorber moved to one side to allow for a shorter, faster turning wheelbase.

Production has started and we expect the first deliveries in early in 2008, with a half faired Mana "S" available in April 2008.

Labels:

Gilera Ferro 850 automatic motorcycle



Gilera 850 v-twin automatic bike everyone?

Gilera's parent company Piaggio have been rumoured to be developing the biggest scooter to date by marrying together their existing 850cc, 90 degree v-twin bike engine and a Suzuki Burgman type CVT automatic gearbox.

However, to general surprise, what we've seen first at the Milan motorcycle show is this engine with an "electronic power-assisted transmission and an automatic clutch" in a rather tasty prototype naked bike, the Gilera Ferro. An automatic bike sounds a crazy thing to do in the rather conservative world of motorcycling, but bear with us as it really makes quite a lot of sense.

One of this years must-have track accessories has been thumb push button power-assisted gear changers (eg the Kliktronic quickchanger system, made up the road from us), which gives ultra fast and ultra reliable gear changes. Ultra fast means about 40ms, which is less than 10% of the time we mere humans take to manually change gear, so the engine spends more time driving the rear wheel, saving up to half a second on the quarter mile time. Conventional manual changes also seriously unsettle the suspension, but a quickchanger is so fast that the effect on the suspension is much reduced. Ultra reliable means no more dangerous false neutrals at critical moments. A slipper clutch (which can be incorporated into certain types of automatic clutches) would probably be needed to prevent rear wheel lock on down shifts on this 850cc v-twin. By integrating these components into the electronic engine management system, Gilera could include control over numerous parameters such as engine braking. Add some extra processing power and perhaps a gyroscopic sensor (for cornering and excessive wheelie height) and you have an option for the bike to make the gear changing decisions for maximum performance, or even maximum fuel economy. Are you getting caught out by the rev limiter at critical moments? This could be the answer. Gilera could even include a MotoGP type push button launch control. They might not be marketing the Gilera Ferro as a track tool, but if their system is good enough to produce a real performance gain, the quickchangers currently on the market show that sports riders could be converted.

From the other side of the spectrum, there's the current twist-and-go owners who like the idea of a "proper" bike but are rather put off by all that very odd left hand clutch, left foot gear change stuff (let's face it, it IS rather arcane). Put the Gilera Ferro gearbox in its (adjustable) automatic mode or thumb through the gears in pseudo manual and ...voilà.

We take our bikes for a sporty spin on a Sunday afternoon, we commute to the big cities on them, we take our partner for leisurely continental tours on them (with blasts on the twisty bits). But we don't (generally) have a sports bike, a big scooter and tourer sitting in our garage. Is the Gilera Ferro multifunctional gearbox the answer? Can this bike be all things to all men? That's a unisex "men", as we think it could be just as popular with women (the wife has been waiting for a bike just like this).

If only they could integrate the Öhlins Continuously Controlled Electronic Suspension system and you'd have the perfect do-everything bike .....but that's another story.

Getting back to that gearbox, Gilera has been rather coy about exactly what technology they're using, and in his presentation, Lucio Masut, director of R&D, mentioned a full-CVT automatic mode. CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) provides, as the name implies, an infinite number of ratios, often through belts and cone shaped pulleys, to perfectly match the engine speed to the throttle position, bike speed, etc. In theory, to get maximum performance, you just have to hold the throttle all the way open and the engine revs to the exact point of maximum power and stays there while the CVT runs through its infinite ratios. No pauses for manual gear changes, just continuous maximum power to the rear wheel. In practice, problems with torque capacity and internal inefficiencies mean CVT systems have so far been unable to match the performance of manual gearboxes. It looks as if we'll have to wait to see exactly what Gilera have up their sleeve for the Ferro.

Do you feel that manual gear changing is part of the "essence" of motorcycle riding? High performance car drivers used to say something similar about their steeds, but the prevalence of semi-automatic and fully automatic sports cars show that they've moved on, so why not motorcycle riders.

"Streetfighter" styling of the Ferro is very attractive, neat and minimalist with under seat exhausts and single sided swing arm. We'd like to see a bit more work on that bikini fairing though.

Dry weight is around 189kg.

Power from Piaggio's standard 850cc 90° v-twin, four valve per cylinder, dry sump engine is 86bhp @ 7,750rpm. Gilera haven't released figures for their variant yet.

We really hope the technical obstacles are overcome, but there's no indication of price or availability dates for the Gilera Ferro, though we fear that it may have a gestation period similar to the Gilera 600 supersport...

Sunday, November 18, 2007

QLINK Pegasus 150cc Scooter


QLINK Pegasus 150 Specs:
Engine Type 4-Stroke, Single Cylinder, Liquid Cooled
Bore x Stroke 58mm x 57.8mm
Compression Ratio 10.3:1
Carburetion ISO – Vacuum Diaphragm
Displacement 152.7 cc
Max. Torque 9.0 / 6000
Horse Power 12 HP
Ignition CDI
Transmission Automatic CVT
Suspension/Front Telescopic (Oil-Damped)
Suspension/Rear Twin Shock(Adjustable pre-load)
Brakes (F:R) Disc : Disc
Tires (F:R) 100/80-16 : 110/80-15
Length x Width x Height 81.7” x 27.1" x 47.2"
Seat Height 30.7"
Ground Clearance 6.3"
Wheelbase 54.5"
Dry Weight 286 lb
Fuel Capacity 2.15 gallons
Available Colors:
QLINK Pegasus 150cc Scooter - Burgundy QLINK Pegasus 150cc Scooter - Champagne QLINK Pegasus 150cc Scooter - Silver
Burgundy Champagne Silver
Available Accessories:
Warranty:
  • 2 Year Limited Warranty
Third Party Reviews:

More Details & Highlights

  • Four stroke, single cylinder, liquid cooled motor produces a broad power-band from a compact, fuel-efficient package.

  • V-belt fully automatic transmission makes the Pegasus complete the twist-and-go proposition.

  • Telescopic front fork soaks up the rough matter, provides a smooth ride and great handling.

  • Unique custom-looking 16-inch aluminum wheels are light and strong held with a powerful front & rear disc brake system.

  • Bright, full-width taillight and dual turn signals make the Pegasus highly visible from behind.

  • Short wheel base design looks completely unique and results in excellent handling.

  • Ergonomically sculpted saddle is comfortable for extensive rides even with a passenger; a wrap-around grab handle makes it easy to secure people and belongings.

Kymco Xciting 500cc Scooter


Introducing the KYMCO Xciting 500. Scooter to the max. The 500cc, DOHC liquid cooled engine delivers an excellent cruising speed and plenty of passing power while the CVT transmission provides stepless acceleration from a stand still all the way up to cruising speed. The 15" front and 14" rear tires, adjustable hydraulic rear shocks and telescopic front forks smooth out the bumps. A well-padded driver's seat with adjustable backrest, 4 postion adjustable brake levers, aerodynamic windscreen offering excellent protection from the elements all add up to a incredibly comfortable and safe ride.

KYMCO Xciting 500 Specs
Engine Type 4-stroke water-cooled DOHC
Displacement 498.5cc
Bore/Stroke 92x75mm
Cooling System Liquid
Ignition Electric
Gearbox Automatic CVT
Chassis Steel
Front Suspension Telescopic forks
Rear Suspension Adjustable hydraulic shocks
Front Brake Single disc with dual piston calipers
Rear Brake Single disc with dual piston calipers
Front Wheel/Tire 120/70-15
Rear Wheel/Tire 150/70-14
Seat Height 30.3 in. (770mm)
Wheelbase 63 in. (1570mm)
Fuel Capacity 3.38gals. (12.8 liters)
Weight 473 lbs.
Features:
  • Speedometer, tachometer, fuel and temp gauges with digital odometer, tripmeter and clock
  • Dash and in front of seat storage as well as under seat
  • Dual helmet storage
  • Dual folding electric mirrors
  • Helmet hook
  • Integrated windshield
  • Cell phone holder with 12V DC adapter
  • ABS brakes as an option
  • 2 Year Factory Warranty
  • C.A.R.B. Certified