Aprilia FV2 1200 Concept, 2009

Aprilia FV2 1200 Concept 2009

The Aprilia FV2 1200 is a concentration of technical innovation, a blend of technology, performance, and pure adrenaline. This amazing concept bike embodies the sum total of Aprilia's current technical know-how and points in the direction that technical development is likely to take at Noale in the next few years.

Aprilia FV2 1200
The FV2 1200 embodies the latest Aprilia technology and reveals the direction likely to be taken by technical and stylistic development at Aprilia in the near future.
The heart of the FV2 1200 is Aprilia's mighty, 1200 cc, 90° V twin, a power plant that confirms Aprilia's determination to develop high capacity, high technology engines using in-house skills and competence.
The minimalist bodywork of the FV2 1200 creates a stunning preponderance of volume towards the front of the bike. The result is a revolutionary, courageous and futuristic look that is destined to form the solid basis for the evolution of Aprilia motorcycle styling.

The engine also fulfils a structural role, and acts as the starting point for the backbone of the motorcycle, a carbon fibre, load bearing frame with integrated filter box. The seat is supported by an aluminium beam and by two carbon fibre struts that extend into the tail and around the rear light cluster. The parallelogram front suspension is based on the system already tried and tested on Aprilia's 250 cc GP racers.
These futuristic solutions have led to an amazing weight reduction (the FV2 1200 weighs under 160 kg) and an extremely compact size. The extraordinary agility that has always typified Aprilia motorcycles therefore finds its utmost expression in the FV2 1200.



The 1200 cc V twin engine is liquid cooled and boast a ride-by-wire control system. Traction control, a latest generation ABS system and electronic suspension management are also provided to let you ride at your performance peak while maintaining complete control over the bike.
The Aprilia FV2 1200's dashboard incorporates a multi-functional instrument cluster that can be interfaced not only with the bike's own CAN line but with a PC too, making it possible to download telemetric data for personal performance evaluations, reconfigure the information shown on the matrix display, load new mappings from the internet, display itineraries, and integrate GPRS and GSM modules for mobile phone connectivity.

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BMW K1300GT, 2009

BMW K1300GT 2009

Introducing the new K 1300 GT, BMW Motorrad is opening up new dimensions in the BMW Touring Encounter World in terms of both riding dynamics and grand touring qualities, enhancing the Company's worldwide leadership in the Dynamic Tourer segment.

Offering even greater supremacy all along the drivetrain, an even higher standard of quality, an aerodynamic fairing enhanced to a new level of perfection, and a wide range of special equipment, the new K 1300 GT stands for Gran Turismo of the highest calibre. It combines maximum agility and sporting riding dynamics with the ideal package for long tours. And with its engine output 118 kW (160 hp), together with maximum torque of 135 Newtonmetres (99 lb-ft), the new K 1300 GT also benefits from the increase in engine size and stands out as one of the most powerful motorcycles in its segment.

The new K 1300 GT is a High Performance Tourer featuring the innovative and proven highlights of the new K 1300 S in terms of performance, riding safety and technology. The drivetrain and suspension come largely from the K 1300 S, but have been adapted in their specific features and details to all the requirements of a dynamic tourer. The highlights in developing the new K 1300 GT were enhanced riding dynamics and even greater supremacy combined with outstanding comfort and optimum qualities for all kinds of motorcycle tours.

An overview of technical highlights:

. E ven more traction and pulling force, particularly at low and medium engine speeds, through the increase in engine capacity.

. Engine output 118 kW (160 hp) at 9,000 rpm, peak torque of 135 Newtonmetres (99 lb-ft) at 8,000 rpm.

. Signifi cant increase in torque from 3,500 rpm.

. Fulfi lment of the strictest environmental standards through newly set-up Digital Motor Electronics.

. O ptimisation of the emission system through rear mufflers modifi ed inside and a fully-controlled three-way catalytic converter.

. Desmodromic operation of the gas lever function for even better and more precise gas dosage.

. Optimised, maintenance-free shaft drive with a new, two-stage drive shaft.

. Even greater driving precision and optimised response combined with maximum riding stability ensured by the optimised Duolever front-wheel suspension complete with a newly designed lower longitudinal arm.

. Second-generation ESA II Electronically Adjustable Suspension and ASC Anti-Spin-Control as an option.

. New, innovative generation of switches and controls with optimised ergonomics.

. I ntegral ABS (semi-integral) featured as standard for a high level of active safety.

. Wide range of equipment and accessories tailored to the new machine at BMW's usual high level of perfection.

. Seat and handlebar adjustable.

. Optimised full fairing.

. Electrically adjustable windshield.

Optional extras:
. Heated handles.
. Heated seat.
. Cruise Control.
. ESA II (Electronic Suspension Adjustment II; new).
. Low rider?fs seat (approx 800 mm/31.5" adjustable to 820 mm or 32.3", step arch length 1,760 mm/68.9").
. High windshield.
. Immobiliser.
. Xenon headlight.

Range of Equipment
. On-board computer including oil level warning unit.
. ASC Anti-Slip Control.
. TPC Tyre Pressure Control.

Special equipment:
Luggage and storage options:
. Watertight tank rucksack.
. Watertight tank bag including fastening elements.
. Sports softbag, small 19 litres/large 51 litres.
. Watertight luggage roll, 53 litres, including lashing belt with tightening lock.
. Luggage spider.
. Impact protector for system cases, left or right.
. Inner bag for system cases, left or right.
. Topcase, large, in white aluminium, 49 litres including attachments and locking cylinder.
. Topcase, small, 28 litres including attachments and locking cylinder.
. Inner bag for topcase, large/small.

. Back padding for topcase, small.

Maintenance and technical features:
. On-board toolkit/service kit.
. Paddock stand including adapter.
. 230 V/110 V battery charger including adapter.
. Repair kit for tubeless tyres.
. Repair instructions for K-models, DVD.
. Motorcycle cleaner.
. Additional power socket.
. LED light for on-board socket.

Ergonomics and comfort:
. Heated handles with control unit.
. Low rider?fs seat (approx 800 mm/31.5" adjustable to 820 mm or 32.3", step arch length 1,760 mm/68.9").
. Windshield, large.
. Windshield, tinted.

Safety and security:
. Immobiliser with remote control.
. First-aid kit, large/small.
. Motorcycle cover.

Navigation and communication:
. BMW Motorrad ZUMO navigation and communication unit incl holder (new).

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BMW Lo Rider Concept, 2009

BMW Lo Rider Concept 2009

The BMW Lo Rider – sporty, purist roadster study with an individually variable design.

The Purist, powerful, unfaired and reduced to the absolute essentials – these few words provide an incomplete description of the BMW Lo Rider, the new concept study by BMW Motorrad. At fi rst sight, the focus would seem to be on the creation of a roadster with a muscular appearance, openly displayed technology and powerful fl at twin engine for pure emotion and maximum motorcycling fun. But behind all this is in fact a completely new custom concept.

The bike’s low weight, the powerful and high-torque fl at twin engine and high-quality chassis technology give it a high level of sporty riding dynamics, while the lowered chassis and the relaxed yet active seating position with the broad handlebars are more of a loan from cruisers and naked bikes.
The concept is such that, for the fi rst time, the customer can be involved in the design of the BMW Lo Rider to an extent which goes beyond what has previously been possible to date. Numerous options including different exhaust systems, seats, headlamp units and paint fi nish variations allow for a level of customisation which is far greater than the familiar individualisation by means of special equipment features and accessories. This means that the entire character of the vehicle can be adapted to the customer’s individual taste: the customer can take full pleasure in assembling a machine just as he wants it – from a cool cruiser to an aggressive muscle bike.

• Combines current technology with modern and classic stylistic elements.
• Design elements can be individually combined by the customer.
• Raised or lowered exhaust system, as preferred.
• Seat for one or two as preferred, or aluminium perch seat.
• Headlamp unit in classic shape or in streetfi ghter style, as preferred.
• Fuel tank with or without aluminium trim, as preferred.
• Four paint fi nishes for the fuel tank.
• Three paint fi nishes for the engine casing.
• Front and rear wheel wings fi nished either in black or chrome, as preferred.

The BMW Motorrad has a tradition of coming up with new ways and ideas when it comes to motorcycling. Fascinating studies and designs have been produced in the past using ideas which then found their way into serial production.
But studies by BMW Motorrad are about more than just trying to develop a motorcycle which has not existed in a given form before. In addition to functions and quality, BMW developers focus on the emotional component – the connection between man and motorcycle. The guiding principle is that a motorcycle should not just function perfectly but should also appeal to all the riders’ senses simultaneously, arouse an emotional response in him and fi ll him with enthusiasm at every moment – when stationary and when moving, as a whole and in its detail. In short: it has to light the fire.
The Emotion through interaction – individualisation made-to-measure.
With the BMW Lo Rider study presented at the EICMA in Milan, BMW Motorrad is not just demonstrating a continuation of this policy but is in fact taking a signifi cant step forward in focusing on the interaction between man and motorcycle. The idea is that for the fi rst time, the customer should be interactively involved in the design of his BMW – going far beyond the familiar adding of special equipment features and accessories. The customer is to be given the opportunity to be much more deeply involved in the design of the Lo Rider from the outset, creating a customised, made-to-measure machine based around the principal components such as engine and chassis.

The Classic meets modern – a combination of stylistic elements from different eras.
The study Lo Rider does not fi t into any of the classic motorcycle segments – and it is not supposed to. It combines the latest technical attributes of high performance sports motorcycles with the traditional, classic principles of motorcycle construction. State-of-the-art chassis components from sports motorcycle construction such as the powerful upside-down fork, 6-piston brake calipers with real bite and wide 17-inch tyres are combined with styledefi ning elements of motorcycle construction from the fifties and sixties.

The idea in detail.
The concepts, also based on styles of the fi fties and sixties, as well as differing paint fi nish versions, the BMW Lo Rider offers the motorcycle fan a wealth of possibilities by means of which to interpret the roadster theme in a highly individual way according to his own personal taste founded on a single basic motorcycle. In fact the Lo Rider gives the creativity of its rider almost completely free rein.

The Chassis and engine – state-of-the-art technology based on classic principles.
The mixture of classic and modern stylistic elements of motorcycle construction combined with state-of-the-art technology is what gives the Lo Rider its defi ning look from all angles. A torsionally stiff space frame of sophisticated architecture openly displays the bike’s technology and together with the upside-down telescopic fork at the front and Paralever rear-wheel swing arm provides the modern basis in terms of chassis technology - just as it is to be found in some current models of the BMW Boxer series. What
is more, the chassis of the Lo Rider has been lowered as compared to conventional roadsters.

In terms of tyre dimensions, the 17-inch wheels represent the current state of the art for sports motorcycles, though with their chrome wire spokes, black hubs and steel rims they ingeniously echo the characteristic stylistic elements and fl air of a past era.
By contrast, contemporary technology and a high level of riding dynamics is provided by elements such as the high performance dual brake disk with powerful 6-piston calipers, together with wave brake discs borrowed from motor racing at the front and the single disc brake at the rear.
In terms of its engine, the Lo Rider also relies on technology which is both contemporary and full of character – the legendary, highly responsive BMW flat twin “Boxer” engine. For 85 years, the construction principle of this engine has stood for unmistakable, authentic design, a full torque curve and unique sound and power. In its current version with an output of over 100 bhp, overhead camshafts, electronic fuel injection and exhaust gas purifi cation, the powerful response of this dynamic and distinctive 2-cylinder is simply perfect for the BMW Lo Rider.

The customer as designer – individual designs and paint fi nishes.
The concept study Lo Rider is mainly focused on the two essential component groups of a motorcycle, the engine and the chassis. Any superfl uous decoration is omitted. Instead, variable components such as the exhaust system, seat, headlamp unit and paint fi nishes determine the bike’s outward appearance, at the same time defi ning its conceptual style.

The combination of these classic and modern components is entirely subject to the personal taste of the customer. For example, he can initially express the dominating character of the BMW Lo Rider through the placement of the exhaust system, creating either a sporty style or opting for a more roadsterlike look by having it lowered.

A very sporty effect is created by the classic perch seat made of aluminium sheet metal, while the simple single seat reduced to the absolute minimum will appeal to purist motorcycle fans. The single seat can also be optionally extended to include a pillion passenger module.

The specifi cation laid down for the development team led by David Robb, Head of Design Development at BMW Motorrad, was that all the conceivable combination options of these components should produce different end results but that the bike should always retain a rounded, coherent character in itself. Whether with a raised or lowered exhaust system, with sporty perch seat or seat bench for one or two people: the Lo Rider comes over differently every time but always makes an impression.

The same applies to the selection options in creating the front section of the Lo Rider. With their aggressive, modern design, the vertically arranged dualheadlamps give it a touch of the streetfi ghter, while the classic, semicircular headlamp provides an echo of past times.
Further possibilities for individual design are available to the customer in the choice of paint fi nish. There are four different colours available for the fuel tank, and with the three different paint fi nishes for the engine casing this allows the customer to create a very distinctive, personal look, defi ning the character of the Lo Rider as anything from refi ned to sporty.

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BMW R1200GS, 2004

BMW R1200GS 2004

It would seem that BMW is getting ready to show the world the new bike.

The German motorcycle magazine Motorrad Aktuell has published on its front page a decent photo of the soon-to-be-announced BMW R1200GS. This photo seems to be much more in line with what we'll actually see, since it's not a spy photo.

The British magazine MCN published spy photos of the new BMW R1200GS, the replacement of the successful R1150GS. The first change is obvious with its name... the 1150 engine is replaced by a 1200 cc engine!

MCN confirm that the weight drops 30 kilos. Not much other details are available, but the bike is looking very promising. With a bigger engine, and less weight, it should be able to reach better performances.

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Aprilia Shiver 750 Concept, 2009

Aprilia Shiver 750 Concept 2009

The Light, agile and powerful, it has a latest generation engine and the most advanced technical features in its class. The 90° V2 produced entirely in-house by Aprilia is extremely compact. Above all, thanks to the advanced electronic management, it can deliver a level of power comparable to four cylinder engines in the same class, but with much more favourable torque at low revs for an efficient and pleasing ride even on everyday routes. True to the Aprilia tradition, the chassis simply has no rivals in its class.
The mixed steel trellis and aluminium side plate frame provides standard setting rigidity. All this makes the bike extremely compact and the perfect ride for beginner and expert alike.
The lightness of the Aprilia Shiver 750 also satisfies the most canny motorcyclist. Its manoeuvrability and engine performance enable the bike to accompany its owner from his first few metres on two wheels up to his complete motorcycling maturity.

The main characteristics of the Aprilia Shiver 750 :
" 90° V2 engine with four valves per cylinder, double overhead camshaft and liquid cooling
" Ride-by-wire electronic throttle technology with 3 different mappings (Sport, Touring and Rain);
" Electronic fuel injection with latest generation injectors;
" Mixed gear and chain valve timing;
" Modular steel trellis and aluminium side plate frame for high torsional rigidity;
" Aluminium swingarm with reinforcement truss and lateral shock absorber;
" 43 mm upside down fork;
" Racing brakes with radial caliper at front;
" Latest generation two channel ABS (ABS version only)
 
The design : Shape at the service of power
As with every Aprilia product, the Shiver 750 has a highly innovative design where form and function come together to create an almost perfect object. The Aprilia Shiver 750 is pure technology as is evident from its mean, aggressive lines.
The Each element has been designed to be not just beautiful but functional too. The design is refined, but at the same time clean-cut, without too many frills for the maximum possible functionality. On the Aprilia Shiver 750, the technical component becomes a design element at the same time, creating a bike both aggressive and at the same time elegant. The new colour schemes for 2009 are the icing on the cake.
The tank-seat-tail assembly further emphasises the compactness of the bike. The rider becomes one with the machine, perfectly integrated in the short, agile, and sporty bike. The strongly tapering tail also incorporates the twin exhaust with triangular silencers, a feature which makes the design even more aggressive, while keeping weight distribution highly symmetrical.
The adoption of a side shock absorber not only adds a further distinctive feature to the look of the bike, but also enables a rational, compact and effective exhaust system to be fitted.

V90 Engine: Technology in the pure state
The V90 engine inherits all Aprilia's experience in high performance mechanics. Thanks to its particular technical characteristics, the Aprilia V90 combines high specific power with maximum usability and easy riding.
The generous twin cylinder powerplant is destined to set new standards in performance and technology for medium powered bikes.

The quest for performance at the top of its class led to the adoption of a number of advanced and innovative technical features:
" 90° V engine layout;
" Ride-by-wire technology with 3 mappings (Sport, Touring e Rain);
" Highly over-square bore and stroke ratio;
" Four valves per cylinder;
" Double overhead camshaft with mixed chain and gear drive;
" Electronic fuel injection with two throttle bodies;
" Plug caps with integrated stick-coils;
" Three way catalytic converter and Lambda probe oxygen sensor;
" Hydraulically operated clutch;

Frame: Rationality and Efficiency
The Aprilia Shiver 750 is concrete confirmation that once again Aprilia has managed to create a chassis which is both extremely easy and intuitive and incredibly high performance.
The design solutions associated with the 90° V twin led to the development of a rational and reliable mixed steel trellis and aluminium side plate frame.
The reduced longitudinal dimensions of the engine made it possible to obtain a short, agile bike, helped by the particular side positioning of the shock absorber. This was not a simple cosmetic mannerism, but a precise technical decision, made to free up the space needed to give the exhaust its optimal dimensions.
The aluminium swingarm with reinforcement truss has been sized specifically to support the asymmetrical stresses caused by lateral positioning of the shock absorber. The rigidity of the swingarm sets new standards for the class.

Suspension
The 43 mm upside down fork with forged feet to support the radial calipers provides benchmark smoothness.
The 120 mm wheel travel makes the bike equally at home on about town trips and mountain routes.
The bottom steering yoke is made from forged aluminium, as is the top steering yoke too.
The side shock absorber rests directly on the swingarm, according to the cantilever principle, and provides adjustments for spring preload and hydraulic rebound. Rear wheel travel is 130 mm.

Brakes
The best technology currently available is incorporated in the Aprilia Shiver 750, the first medium powered naked with a radial caliper system, a feature emphasising even further (as if it were needed) the sporty personality of the design.
The 320 mm front discs are the same as used in the racing flagships, the RSV 1000 R and Tuono 1000 R.
At the back, a 245 mm disc with single piston caliper provides adequate backup for the front circuit.

The front and rear braking circuits both use aeronautical metal braid hoses to eliminate the pressure variations associated with conventional rubber brake lines, guaranteeing maximum braking precision for a top level system.
A sophisticated two channel ABS system maximises the Shiver 750 ABS' s already impressive levels of active and passive safety by preventing wheel lock on slippery surfaces and improving braking performance. On the Shiver 750 ABS, all riders can confidently use the full power of the generous braking system, improving safety over difficult surfaces not only in a straight line but on bends too.

The Aprilia Shiver 750 Specifications :
Engine
Aprilia V90 Four stroke longitudinal 90° V twin. Liquid cooling. Double overhead camshaft with mixed gear/chain drive; four valves per cylinder.
Fuel Unleaded petrol.
Bore x stroke 92 x 56.4 mm
Total displacement 749.9 cc
Compression ratio 11 : 1
Maximum power at the crank 95 HP at 9000 rpm.
Maximum torque at the crank 8.25 kgm at 7000 rpm.
Fuel system Integrated engine management system. Injection with Ride by Wire technology control of the throttle bodies

Ignition
Digital electronic, integrated with the injection
Starting Electric

Exhaust
2 in one system in 100% stainless steel with three-way catalytic converter and Lambda probe
Generator 450 W at 6000 rpm.
Lubrication Wet sump

Gearbox six speed, transmission ratio:
1st 36/14 (2.57)
2nd 32/17 (1.88)
3rd 30/20 (1.5)
4th 28/22 (1.27)
5th 23/26 (0.88)
6th 24/25 (0.96)
Clutch Multi-plate in oil bath, hydraulically operated.
Primary drive Spur gears, transmission ratio: 60/31 (1.75)
Final drive Chain
Transmission ratio: 16/44

Frame
Modular steel trellis connected with high strength bolts to aluminium side plates. Detachable rear frame.
Front suspension 43 mm upside-down fork. 120 mm wheel travel.
Rear suspension Aluminium alloy swingarm with reinforcement truss.
Hydraulic shock absorber adjustable in spring preload and rebound damping. Wheel travel: 130 mm.

Brakes
Front: Double stainless steel floating disc (Ø 320 mm ). Four piston radial calipers.
Metal braided brake line.
Continental two channel ABS (ABS version).
Rear: Stainless steel disc ( 245 mm) with single piston caliper. Metal braided brake line.

Wheels In aluminium alloy
Front: 3.50 X 17" Rear: 6.00 X 17"
Tyres Radial tubeless;
front: 120/70 ZR 17
rear: 180/55 ZR 17

Dimensions
Overall length 2065 mm
Overall width: 800 mm (at handlebars)
Overall height: 1135 mm (at instruments)
Seat height: 810 mm
Wheelbase: 1440 mm
Trail: 109 mm
Rake angle: 25.7°
Tank capacity 15 litres

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Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Black Cat

Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Black Cat on her 2007 Harley-Davidson Sportster 883XL Low. We need more pictures of men and women with their motorcycles. Get your picture in. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you

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B & A Cylinder Head, an Honest Motorcycle Mechanic

I just want to put a shout out to B&A Cylinder Head for being straight with me.

Earlier on a mechanic I've used in the past (name not mentioned as I do not believe in defaming anyone), I was lead to believe that I needed lifters, or (Tappits). His business was out of commission while moving so I started looking elsewhere for some other opinions on what might be wrong with my bike. After talking to some other mechanics, I had got a few opinions that it might not necessarily be my lifters making the ticking noise I was hearing during idle after the motor warmed up. I guess you could say this was an honest mistake, and or misdiagnosis. The only problem is, that misdiagnosis could have, and would have cost me some serious dough to fix absolutely nothing.

Previously, when I had my motor built up a bit, I had my bike Dyno-tuned, so I brought it to the place that did that. It turns out after a trip to B&A Cylinder Head and a Dyno set up that the ticking sound I am hearing is just my motor doing what all or most Harley motors do eventually when they have some miles on them. There is one of several parts that is worn, or off by less than 1,000th of an inch. Not enough for the naked eye to see. He said he could replace those parts for the tune of about $1900.00, and then you would be sure you got which ever one it was that was making that tick, or knock. He also went on to tell me that the noise I am hearing is nothing to worry about and that if it was his bike he would just ride it as is. If I wanted to spend $1900.00 with him, let's have me save up the money versus charging it on my credit card and putting me into debt for nothing. He said later on I could put that money to better use and put some more horsepower between my knees rather than wasting it on chasing a noise that isn't hurting anything. By the way, the diagnosis fee including setting it up on the Dyno., was way less money than what it should have been based on the time he had into figuring out what was wrong with the bike, or in this case being certain that he could say that there was nothing wrong with the bike. But he gave me a figure, and he stuck to it. Did I mention that he came and picked up and delivered my bike to me with his covered trailer, so I wouldn't have to ride it back and forth to his shop in the winter? What Excellent service!

Honesty and word of mouth advertising is EVERYTHING in this business, so I felt it was only fair to spread the word that I have found someone I am willing to share as a good honest motorcycle mechanic. He could have told me that if I didn't spend that $1900.00, my motor was in jeopardy of blowing up, and I would have handed him my credit card.

Needless to say, I'll be saving that money. He'll be seeing more of me in the future, and hopefully more of my friends who ride too.

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