01/12/2011 | By:

The 2011 Tokyo Motor Show has produced a number of new concepts but there is at least one new production model. Honda premiered a new dual-sport powered by a 249cc engine reportedly based on the CBR250R’s power plant.

The 2012 Honda CRF250L is a step up from the CRF230L and its carbureted air-cooled 223cc SOHC engine. The new CRF250L is powered by a fuel-injected liquid-cooled DOHC four-valve Single Honda claims delivers “satisfying” torque at low revs and smooth acceleration at high rpms. Honda hasn’t revealed any specifics but if the engine is indeed the same as that of the CBR250R (and considering the R&D invested into that engine, it should be!), power output should be about 22hp.

Continue Reading »

29/11/2011 | By:

Husqvarna unveiled a new streetbike model powered by the engine from parent company BMW’s G650GS.

The Husqvarna Concept Strada was int4roduced in Paris at the Salon de la Moto show. Though Husqvarna is calling the supermoto-styled Strada a concept, but the new model is near production ready, with Husqvarna expecting to begin sales in 2012, possibly as a 2013 model.

Continue Reading »

03/08/2011 | By:

Suzuki is bringing back the DR-Z125 entry-level off-road motorcycle and its slightly larger DR-Z125L variant as part of its 2012 model year offerings.

Last offered in 2009, the Suzuki DR-Z125 returns for 2012 with updated graphics similar to Suzuki’s RM-Z family of motocrossers.

The DR-Z125 is powered by a 124cc air-cooled four-stroke engine Suzuki describes as having strong low to mid-range power. Power is delivered through a five-speed transmission with link-type shifting.

The 2012 Suzuki DR-Z125 is equipped with a 17-inch front wheel and a 14-inch rear wheel. Both wheels are stopped by drum brakes. The slightly larger DR-Z125L uses a 19-inch front wheel and a 16-inch wheel at the rear, with a disc brake on the front wheel. The DR-Z125L has a seat height of 31.7 inches while the DR-Z125′s seat is 30.5 inches from the ground.

[Source: Suzuki]

Continue Reading »

13/07/2011 | By:

According to reports out of India, KTM Chief Executive Officer Stefan Pierer has announced the Austrian manufacturer will produce 200cc and 350cc versions of its youth-oriented 125 Duke. Unfortunately for us in North America, the two new Dukes will appear destined for emerging markets such as India, Brazil, Thailand and Malaysia.

Speaking with the Indian press, Pierer says KTM is partnering with Bajaj Auto to develop the 200 Duke in 2012 with the 350 version to follow in 2013. Bajaj is one of India’s largest home-grown automotive manufacturers and a part-owner of KTM, and also helped develop the 125 Duke. Pierer says the 200 Duke will be introduced at the 2012 Delhi Auto Expo.

Continue Reading »