2016 bikes previewed: PH2
PH2 casts a critical eye on the 2016 bikes on show at Motorcycle Live
Many will be taking a trip to the Suzuki stand to look at the new GSX-R1000, but what's the full story behind this '2017 concept'? For a start it isn't a concept, it's a production bike due mid to late 2016. So, if you want one you probably will be able to ride it in 2016's summer sun - briefly! It will come in two formats, stock and R, with uprated suspension appearing to be the main differences. And it will cost less than its rivals, which is good news.
Will it be the sports bike to beat? Here is the worry - not only does it look quite similar to other GSX-R models, it lacks the electronic bling factor of many rivals. It will be a massive step forward when compared to the old model, but will it match the new ZX-10R, YZF-R1 or S1000RR?
There are a few bikes you'll need to act quickly on, given the expected demand - specifically BMW's R NineT Scrambler and Triumph's Thruxton R. The reaction in BMW dealers to the Scrambler appears to be mimicking what happened with the R NineT in its debut year and bikes are already in very short supply.
And the same is happening with the Thruxton R. Triumph has already increased its production for all new Bonneville models but, from what PH2 has heard, despite this the R is getting very close to being sold out.
Yamaha dealers are more than aware of this, but under-ordering its most popular bikes is a common theme at Yamaha. In 2015 the Tracer and R1 sold out almost instantly and many owners were left waiting until mid-summer for the next batch to arrive from Japan. It looks very likely the same will happen this year with the MT-10, so if you want this naked R1 you had better get a deposit down soon. The Multistrada Enduro might also throw up sales surprise, but it is unlikely to sell out.
Honda has been building hype around its new Africa Twin for nearly a year and the bike should finally arrive in dealers early 2016. But here is the issue. Honda has deliberately made the Africa Twin a capable off-roader and PH2 isn't convinced that this is what the UK adventure market wants. There is a world of difference between a bike that looks as if it will go off road but is actually a very good road bike and one that has its road potential compromised for the sake of off-road.
Suzuki's new SV650 is also a worry. To take on the likes of the MT-07 the SV needs to be something special, but it doesn't appear that visually outstanding and has only shed 8kg in weight and gained a couple of horsepower.
Ducati's Scrambler has enjoyed enormous success in 2015, we can't see the Sixty2 being quite as popular in the UK. The sales pitch may have been the 'young and trendy' market, but the fact of the matter is most Scrambler buyers are older Ducati owners who want a chilled out and good-looking Ducati. And the Sixty2's smaller engine won't appeal to them.
Speaking of not hitting the UK market, take a look at the Harley-Davidson Street 750. Harley is confident it will appeal to younger urban riders, but we weren't as convinced when we rode it. Finally, for a laugh, check out Honda's adventure scooter concept model...
One bike you really need to have a good look at is the Ducati XDiavel S, which is simply stunning in the flesh. The attention to detail on the engine to hide the water-cooling is beautiful. Also, check out the exhaust pipes on the 1200 Bonneville range, which are actually a twin skin affair so that the ugly cat can be tucked under the engine.
The yellow and black speed block Yamaha XSR900 looks nothing like a flat tracker but is pretty cool nonetheless. And check out the Moto Guzzi range. The current trend for retro should play to Guzzi's strengths and you can't help but feel the brand is due a sales boost. If you are after a small capacity machine, wander over to Suzuki and look at the new VanVan 200, which is super cool.
Motorcycle Live opens its doors on November 28 and runs until December 6.
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you 'Honda has deliberately made the Africa Twin a capable off-roader and PH2 isn't convinced that this is what the UK adventure market wants. There is a world of difference between a bike that looks as if it will go off road but is actually a very good road bike and one that has its road potential compromised for the sake of off-road.'
Not sure I agree with this. It's probably nearest in concept to something like a KTM 990 Adventure, which, off road, is the most capable of the big adventure bikes - but that doesn't compromise its on road ability. It was outsold by the BMW GS mostly because of the Ewan and Charlie effect.
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