Cologne motorcycle show 2010
The Kawasaki Z1000SX
For the uninitiated, the Cologne motorcycle show is where manufacturers begin to unmask upcoming models in their range, before the majority reveal their full 2011 line-ups in Milan in November. We'll be bringing you reviews and more details in the next few months, and in the meantime here's a summary of the most important models at Cologne.
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BMW
We covered first details of BMW's two new 1,600cc, six-cylinder touring bikes in August, but it has only now released pictures. No big surprises visually, but it's worth noting how well BMW has disguised the bikes' bulk.
Beneath the bodywork both bikes are identical, including the 158bhp engine, which is claimed to have a huge spread of torque – 70 per cent of the maximum is available from just 1,500rpm – as well as being outstandingly smooth, as a six should be. But the bikes also come with an array of impressive new technology, including an optional self-levelling headlight that produces a horizontal beam even when the bike is leaning for corners.
Triumph
For 2011 the class-leading Speed Triple is being almost entirely renewed. The 1,050cc engine is upgraded to produce 133bhp (5bhp extra), with eight per cent more torque, while the chassis is all new, despite looking similar. It promises to be sharper and more agile, too. Controversially, the distinctive circular twin chrome headlights have been replaced with black "foxeye" units, otherwise Speed Triple fans should be happy.
The new Thunderbird Storm's power and torque are boosted by the fitment as standard of Triumph's previously optional engine oversize kit, increasing capacity to 1,700cc. The bike is now finished with a blacked-out, minimalist look.
Kawasaki
The company has responded to criticism of a tired and unadventurous range with four new models, including an all-new flagship superbike, the Ninja ZX-10R, aimed at BMW's S1000RR. The headline feature for this is the claimed power output of 197bhp, while the bike is a full 22lb (10kg) lighter than the old model, which was no heavyweight. The frame, geometry, wheels and suspension are all new, and the bike also features an ultra high-tech traction control system and optional race-inspired ABS brakes, along with three different engine power mode options.
For less extreme high performance, the Z1000SX – in effect a Z1000 with a full fairing and larger tank – could be a surprise hit of 2011. Power is 135bhp and the tank holds a useful 4.2 gallons (19 litres). It's also very good looking.
Triumph's Bonneville is under attack from Kawasaki's new W800. The parallel twin is a stunning looking retro bike, and technically interesting for the shaft and bevel gear-driven overhead cam.
The Voyager Custom follows the US "bagger" theme, meaning it's stripped down, blacked out and generally mean looking, and although it's closely based on the existing VN1700 it features a lot of unique bodywork components.
Suzuki
Nothing radical, but GSX-R fans should be happy with the all-new 600 and near-identical 750, especially the fitment of cutting edge Brembo Monobloc front brakes. The bikes are 20lb and 18lb (9kg and 8kg respectively) lighter than the 2010 versions, with more power and 10 per cent better fuel economy.
It's taken the company a long time to do the obvious and produce a Kawasaki Z750 rival, but that's what the GSR750 is. The bike uses a detuned version of an older GSX-R750 engine with sharp styling and high-spec chassis components, and should sell well.
Ducati
Ducati will be showing its most important new models at its home show in Milan, but it unveiled the fabulous 1198 SP superbike in Cologne. This includes all the electronics found on the stock 1198, including traction control, on-board data logging and the new electronic quickshift gearchange, and adds top quality Öhlins suspension, a larger capacity, aluminium fuel tank and lightened chassis components, including Marchesini wheels.
Win NEC Show Tickets!
All of these bikes and many more due to be unveiled at the Milan show in November will be on display in the UK at Motorcycle Live at the NEC in Birmingham from November 27 to December 5. Tickets cost £15 in advance, £17 on the door (£10 for seniors, 11-16s £5, 10 and under free).
You can win one of 10 pairs of tickets in an easy-to-enter competition at Ash On Bikes.
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