2004 Motorcycle Guide - Sportbikes, Sport Tourers and Standards
| Aprilia — Sponsored By: |  |
 | | Manufacturer and Model: | Aprilia RSV1000R Factory | | MSRP: | $17,899 | | Engine Type: | l-c 8v | | Displacement: | 998 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 408 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.9 in. | | Description: | Aprilia's fab Mille has been completely redesigned for 2004, making it lower, more comfortable and easier to ride, not to mention faster. Its frame and suspension setup are designed to make sliding the rear more manageable. Standard on the top-line Factory model are Ohlins suspension and forged wheels. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Aprilia RSV Mille R | | MSRP: | $13,999 | | Engine Type: | l-c 8v | | Displacement: | 998 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 408 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.9 in. | | Description: | Don't be confused. Last year's top-o-the-heap Mille was the R, and now that's the basic version. Still it's a hottie, with new cylinder heads for more power, a stiffer and lighter frame and rakish new bodywork. Showa/Boge suspension and four-pad conventional Brembos replace the Factory's high-spec stuff. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Aprilia RST1000 Futura | | MSRP: | $12,999 | | Engine Type: | l-c 8v | | Displacement: | 998 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 462 lb. | | Seat Height: | 32.3 in. | | Description: | There are no major changes to Aprilia's sport-touring entry for 2004, and that's OK--they pretty much got it right the first time. It has the comfort and performance to rival the big sport tourers from Honda, Yamaha and BMW--and makes it all happen in a package that's between 100 and 200 pounds lighter. Maybe pasta is good for you after all. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Aprilia Tuono/Tuono Racing | | MSRP: | $11,999/$17,999 | | Engine Type: | l-c 8v | | Displacement: | 998 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 404 lb. | | Seat Height: | 32.3 in. | | Description: | Under the bare-bones bodywork, it's a 2003-spec Mille but civilized with sit-up handlebars and a bikini nose fairing. The result is a fast, beautifully suspended, user-friendly, comfortable nudie-bike. The Racing version gets you Oehlins suspension and radial-mount brakes. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Aprilia SL1000 Falco | | MSRP: | $10,999 | | Engine Type: | l-c 8v | | Displacement: | 998 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 418 lb. | | Seat Height: | 32.0 in. | | Description: | The Falco has been around a while, and well, it's back again. Not that there's anything wrong with that: The kinder, gentler Aprilia sportbike gives you the wonderful Rotax 60-degree V of the legendary Mille, but in a sweet, aluminum-tube frame with a more moderate riding position. Falco or Tuono? Hmmmm. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Aprilia Atlantic 500 | | MSRP: | $5699 | | Engine Type: | l-c 4v | | Displacement: | 460cc single | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | automatic | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 425 lb. | | Seat Height: | 30.0 in. | | Description: | Put inimitable Italian style in a package that blurs traditional boundaries between scooters and motorcycles and you get the Atlantic. Power comes from a counterbalanced, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected 460cc four-stroke single. There's room for two, plenty of storage and surprising wind protection. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Aprilia RS50 | | MSRP: | $3549 | | Engine Type: | l-c 2-st | | Displacement: | 50 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 308 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.9 in. | | Description: | Size does matter--the smaller, the better. Essentially a screaming GP bike for the street, the RS50 makes your morning commute an all-out race, just to stay ahead of the rumbling Hummers. I scream, you scream, the engine screams, we all scream--in revving, smoking, two-stroke delight. |
| BMW — Sponsored By: | |
 | | Manufacturer and Model: | BMW K1200GT | | MSRP: | $17,990 | | Engine Type: | l-c 16v | | Displacement: | 1171 inline-four | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/shaft | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 638 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.1/32.3 in. | | Description: | The K1200GT was a new model for 2003, so we understand why it's not much changed for '04. It's essentially a touring version of the venerable K1200RS, with a taller fairing upper and wind deflectors routing the air up and around. At more than 600 pounds it's no racer, but it's a great all-weather mount. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | BMW K1200RS | | MSRP: | $16,990 | | Engine Type: | l-c 16v | | Displacement: | 1171 inline-four | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/shaft | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 614 lb. | | Seat Height: | 614 lb. | | Description: | To call an almost 600-pound motorcycle a sportbike may be stretching the definition, but as BMWs go, the big, brawny K1200RS is the real sporting deal. The RS received a more friendly ergo package back in 2002, along with EVO brakes and standard Integral ABS. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | BMW R1150RS | | MSRP: | $15,490 | | Engine Type: | a/o-c 8v | | Displacement: | 1130 opposed-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/shaft | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 504 lb. | | Seat Height: | 30.3 in. | | Description: | As the original Oilhead, the R-RS has an important place in BMW's lineup. LAst year it gre to an 1130 with a six-speed to match most of the other Oilheads in the line, and it gained the new, more powerful EVo brakes. This year, it gets an extra spark plug for each cylinder. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | BMW R1100s Boxer Cup Replika | | MSRP: | $14,630 w/ ABS | | Engine Type: | a/o-c 8v | | Displacement: | 1085 opposed-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/shaft | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 487 lb. | | Seat Height: | 32.0/31.5 lb. | | Description: | Aren't those Germans cute, sticking to the Deutsche spelling of "replica"? An amalgam of standard R1100S and now-defunct R1100S Light parts, the Replika sports special paint, a wider rear rim and stiffer suspension. Only a handful will be made, hald with ABS, half without. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | BMW R1150R Edition 80 | | MSRP: | $13,900 | | Engine Type: | a/o-c 8v | | Displacement: | 1130 opposed-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/shaft | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 504 lb. | | Seat Height: | 30.3 in. | | Description: | To celebrate its 80th anniversary, BMW introduced the limited-edition R1150R Edition 80. Only 2000 will be built, and only 200 of those will be making it to the States. Underneath the black-and-white, San Quentin-Replika paint, the Edition 80 is a Rockster, and that's not bad. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | BMW R1100S | | MSRP: | $13,690 | | Engine Type: | a/o-c 8v | | Displacement: | 1085 opposed-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/shaft | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 507 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.5 in. | | Description: | The dramatic, David Robb-penned R1100S is essentially unchanged for 2004, with the exception of the two-spark heads: no more power, but better smoothness and flexibility. This is the last of the original-displacement Oilheads but packs the most peak horsepower. Heated handgrips and ABS are standard. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | BMW R1150R Rockster | | MSRP: | $10,790/$12,990 w/ABS | | Engine Type: | a/o-c 8v | | Displacement: | 1130 opposed-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/shaft | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 488 lb. | | Seat Height: | 32.9in. | | Description: | Still think BMWs are for retired museum curators? Look at this. Starting with the eminently functional R1150R, the Rockster adds slashing sci-fi graphics, plus a practical luggage platform behind the rider's saddle. This is not your eighth-grade physics teacher's BMW. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | BMW R1150R | | MSRP: | $9990/$12,190 w/ABS | | Engine Type: | a/o-c 8v | | Displacement: | 1130 opposed-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/shaft | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 498/514 lb. | | Seat Height: | 30.3 in. | | Description: | The R1150R Roadster uses a more classical chrome headlight and chrome trim where the more extreme models tend toward flat black. Underneath is the tractable and reliable oilhead boxer, ready to leap tall states in a single sitting. The seat height is low, but the enjoyment is not. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | BMW F650CS | | MSRP: | $8690/$9190 w/ABS | | Engine Type: | l-c 4v | | Displacement: | 652 single | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 5/belt | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 389 lb. | | Seat Height: | 30.7 in | | Description: | Technically not a 2004 model, BMW will be selling the '03-spec CS through the year. As ever, the CS is a cutesy urban scoot aimed at 20-somethings, 30-somethings, female-somethings and newbie-somethings. The liquid-cooled thumper is pretty smooth, considering, and the bike's profile sets it apart. |
| Buell — Sponsored By: | |
 | | Manufacturer and Model: | Buell XB12R Firebolt | | MSRP: | $10,995 | | Engine Type: | a-c 4v | | Displacement: | 1203 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 5/belt | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 395 lb. | | Seat Height: | 30.5 in. | | Description: | Take the Buell Firebolt XB9R, and give it some extra urge by the simple addition of a longer-stroke crank. What do you have? An all-American streetfighter, as before, but one with the cojones to back up its enraged-alien look. Buell trickery remains: fuel-filled frame, oil-filled swingarm and clever engine isolation. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Buell XB12S Lightning | | MSRP: | $10,995 | | Engine Type: | a-c 4v | | Displacement: | 1203 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 5/belt | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 395 lb. | | Seat Height: | 30.1 in. | | Description: | The Lightning incarnation of the XB12R concept looks a little rougher and feels a little meaner, but it has every bit of the original engineering, clean-sheet design and knife-edge chassis dynamics. If you don't give a damn about how they do it in Hamamatsu, here's a little something from Wisconsin. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Buell XB9R Firebolt | | MSRP: | $9195 | | Engine Type: | a-c 4v | | Displacement: | 984 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 5/belt | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 385 lb. | | Seat Height: | 30.5 in. | | Description: | A techno tour de force, the XB9R Firebolt represents Buell's attack on the entrenched sportbike orthodoxy. The fuel lives in the frame, the oil sloshes in the swingarm and pushrods--each pushed by its own cam--pop big old two-to-a-cylinder poppets. It's not like anything else except another Buell. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Buell XB9S Lightning | | MSRP: | $9195 | | Engine Type: | a-c 4v | | Displacement: | 984 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 5/belt | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 385 lb. | | Seat Height: | 30.1 in. | | Description: | We're told that 40 parts differentiate the Lightning from the Firebolt, but it seems--and feels--like several dozen more. The standard tubular bar creates a compact (almost too compact) ergo package that makes an already tiny motorcycle seem absolutely miniscule. Same engine as XB9R Firebolt. No changes for 2004. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Buell Blast | | MSRP: | $4595 | | Engine Type: | a-c 2v | | Displacement: | 492 single | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 5/belt | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 360 lb. | | Seat Height: | 25.5/27.5 in. | | Description: | What does the Buell Blast have to do to earn some respect? Um, we'll get back to you on that. Unchanged for 2004, the Blast is and looks built to a thin nickel (we're too kind to say cheap), but it has proven to be nearly bulletproof in the hands of novice riders. Modest performance here, but it's probably enough for the truly damp behind the ears. |
| Ducati — Sponsored By: | |
 | | Manufacturer and Model: | Ducati 999R | | MSRP: | $32,000 | | Engine Type: | l-c 8v | | Displacement: | 999 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 422 lb. | | Seat Height: | 30.7 in. | | Description: | Yet another fiery red chunk of motolust for you. Ducati's lightweight, race-ready, all-red, monoposto 999R is on these pages simply to make you whine. Radial Brembo front brakes are the icing on this cinnamon-hot supermodel. If you're not a racer, or exceedingly rich, you won't get one of these pumped-up, stunningly suspended superbikes. Life goes on--or does it? |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Ducati 749R | | MSRP: | $21,995 | | Engine Type: | l-c 8v | | Displacement: | 749 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 439 lb. | | Seat Height: | 30.7 in. | | Description: | Red frame, red fairing, single seat only. Oh, yes...it's the new 749R. Making an alleged 118 horsies at 10,250 rpm, the 749R's short-stroke Testastretta twin is Ducati's first with titanium valves. With ti con-rods for no extra charge, it's a bargain. Suspension? Oehlins. Cool factor? Priceless. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Ducati 999/999S | | MSRP: | $17,695/$22,995 | | Engine Type: | l-c 8v | | Displacement: | 998 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 439 lb. | | Seat Height: | 30.7 in. | | Description: | Ducati's basic 999 is anything but in red or yellow. Then there's the hotter S iteration: single, adjustable seat or a dual saddle, and race-ready, fully adjustable Oehlins suspension front and rear in place of the basic bike's Showa pieces. The S-spec engine is listed at 12 horsepower more than the basic 999--but both are fine, charismatic twins. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Ducati 749S | | MSRP: | $14,795 | | Engine Type: | l-c 8v | | Displacement: | 748 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 439 lb. | | Seat Height: | 30.7 in. | | Description: | Based on Ducati's gnarliest superbike, the 999, Ducati's 749S uses a short-stroke version of the Testastretta engine in the big guy's basic chassis. Suspension is Showa front and rear, and the engine pumps out 110 horsepower, if you ask Ducati. You can get it in red or yellow in two-seat trim or with a nifty fore-and-aft adjustable solo version. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Ducati 749/Dark | | MSRP: | $13,495/$11,995 | | Engine Type: | l-c 8v | | Displacement: | 748 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 433 lb. | | Seat Height: | 30.7 in | | Description: | The base 749 uses a Sachs, not a Showa, rear shock and loses the TiN coating on the fork legs. Horsepower is down to a Ducati-claimed 103, but the weight is down by a couple of pounds as well. In any case, you get all the essential swellness of this great-looking, free-revving midfielder, just at a price much less likely to cause a checkbook highside. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Ducati 998 FE/Matrix | | MSRP: | $19,995/$15,695 | | Engine Type: | l-c 8v | | Displacement: | 998 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 436 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.1 in. | | Description: | Here's your last chance to own motorcycling's Mona Lisa. The red 998FE gets tricolor markings on its flanks and commemorative steering-head plaque. In between, there's a 136-horse Testastretta twin and Oehlins suspension. The 998 Matrix wears the same basic black livery from The Matrix Reloaded, but it won't make you ride like Trinity. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Ducati ST4s/ST4s ABS | | MSRP: | $14,995/$15,995 | | Engine Type: | l-c 8v | | Displacement: | 996 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 479 lb. | | Seat Height: | 32.3 in. | | Description: | Under the rakish new fairing, the 996cc ST4S is essentially unchanged, but it gets better weather protection and a posterior-friendly saddle. The optional Bosch ABS has something we appreciate: an off switch. Colors: metallic dark gray, red or yellow. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Ducati Monster S4R | | MSRP: | $13,495 | | Engine Type: | l-c 8v | | Displacement: | 996 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 425 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.5 in. | | Description: | New for 2004, the Monster S4R replaces the old S4 and combines the snorky, liquid-cooled, 113-horse desmoquattro engine of the 996 with a revised chassis featuring a new single-sided swingarm and high-exit exhausts. Even comes with Cobra Coupe/white-on-blue paint. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Ducati 1000DS Multistrada | | MSRP: | $11,995 | | Engine Type: | a-c 4v | | Displacement: | 992 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 441 lb. | | Seat Height: | 33.5 in. | | Description: | Introduced this summer as an early-release 2004 model, the radical Multistrada tosses the faux-adventure-tourer idea into a big Italian blender. More an upright sportbike than a dual-sport, the Multistrada is a truly wonderful do-anything sport utility bike (SUB). |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Ducati ST3 | | MSRP: | $11,995 | | Engine Type: | l-c 6v | | Displacement: | 996 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 467 lb. | | Seat Height: | 32.3 in. | | Description: | The appearance of the ST3, with a new fairing and seat, represents the triumph of mind over macho, sanity over superego. The ST4S, with its desmoquattro engine, may be swell, but the new liquid-cooled, three-valve-per-cylinder ST3 mill might just work better over most roads. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Ducati SuperSport 1000DS | | MSRP: | $10,995 | | Engine Type: | a-c 4v | | Displacement: | 992 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 416 lb. | | Seat Height: | 32.3 in. | | Description: | Ducati's new fuel-injected, 992cc, dual-spark-plug engine was a big hit around the Motorcyclist offices; it may not be exciting on paper, but its great throttle response and meaty torque curve made it a favorite no matter which chassis it came in. The biggest SS gets an Oehlins shock, a Showa fork and the expected Brembo triple discs. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Ducati Monster 1000S | | MSRP: | $10,995 | | Engine Type: | a-c 4v | | Displacement: | 992 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 416 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.5 in. | | Description: | The new 84-horse, air-cooled, 992cc, dual-spark engine is the heart of this Italian nudie, and it's a sweetie; smooth, torquey and wonderfully responsive right off the idle stop. The 1000S employs a Showa fork and Sachs shock, and the combination works just swimmingly, thank you. Colors: black, metallic gray, red and yellow. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Ducati SuperSport 800 | | MSRP: | $7995 | | Engine Type: | a-c 4v | | Displacement: | 803 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 409 lb. | | Seat Height: | 32.1 in. | | Description: | The Supersport 620 is gone for 2004, making the significantly more worthy 800 the opening SS. This upgraded air-cooled engine pumps out just 10 hp less (75.4) than the 1000 Dual Spark, for a whopping $3000 less converted cash--that's $1500 per spark plug! The midsized SS gets a Sachs shock, a Marzocchi fork and the expected Brembo triple discs. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Ducati Monster 800S | | MSRP: | $8695 | | Engine Type: | a-c 4v | | Displacement: | 803 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 394 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.3 in. | | Description: | Midrange Monsters, like their supersport stablemates, get the big-bore 802cc desmodue engine, six-speed gearboxes and triple Brembo discs. Unlike them, the Monster's fork is a nonadjustable Showa; the rear end is held not-so-high by a Sachs shock. The Monster 800 can be had in the usual Ducati hues of black, red or yellow. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Ducati Monster 620/620 Dark | | MSRP: | $6995/$6595 | | Engine Type: | a-c 4v | | Displacement: | 618 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 5 or 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 389 lb. | | Seat Height: | 30.3 in. | | Description: | Returning essentially unchanged, the Monster 620 keeps its fuel injection, adjustable shock and twin Brembos up front. Intended as an entry-level Duck, the Monster 620 is appropriately light and low, with modest power. The Dark version is black and has but five speeds. |
| Honda — Sponsored By: | |
 | | Manufacturer and Model: | Honda CBR1000RR | | MSRP: | $10,999 | | Engine Type: | l-c 16v | | Displacement: | 998 inline-four | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 396 lb. | | Seat Height: | 32.5 in. | | Description: | Honda finally went and made a raceable literbike that actually displaces a liter--the all-new CBR1000RR. Like the CBR600R, it's designed using tricks from the all-conquering RC211V MotoGP bike, including Unit-Pro Link suspension. Can it challenge the King of the Class, the GSX-R1000? Can't wait to find out. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Honda ST1300 | | MSRP: | $12,999/$14,499 (ABS) | | Engine Type: | l-c 16v | | Displacement: | 1261 V-four | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 5/shaft | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 630 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.1 in. | | Description: | Honda's replacement for the long-running ST1100 is a better motorcycle in every regard. It's smooth, quick, amazingly light on its feet--and actually lighter than its predecessor, reversing a distressing trend. The ABS version gets an electrically adjusted windscreen in addition to the no-skid stoppers. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Honda RC51 | | MSRP: | $11,599 | | Engine Type: | l-c 8v | | Displacement: | 999 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 430 lb. | | Seat Height: | 32.3 in. | | Description: | The all-race, all-the-time RC51 was substantially revised for 2003--making it a better streetbike--but it has one added feature for 2004: Nicky Hayden's actual signature, right there on the tank. Is this Nicky's payback for his coveted MotoGP ride: having to sign all these RCs? Well, he's young and has the energy. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Honda Interceptor | | MSRP: | $9999/$10,999 w/ABS | | Engine Type: | l-c 16v | | Displacement: | 781 V-four | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 472/483 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.7 in. | | Description: | Redesigned for 2002, the Interceptor is back for '04 with one noteworthy change: Asphalt joins red on the palette. (When was the last time VFR buyers had a choice?) The Interceptor remains one of the great do-it-all motorcycles, ready to machine-gun apexes on Sunday and traverse Texas on Tuesday. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Honda Super Hawk | | MSRP: | $8999 | | Engine Type: | l-c 8v | | Displacement: | 996 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 426 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.9 in. | | Description: | The Super Hawk lives on in 2004, with no new features save a black-with-gold-wheels color scheme. (Rumors of a replacement have stilled to nothing.) Not that there's anything wrong with the VTR keepin' on: The S-Hawk has long been lauded for its torque-monster V-twin engine, moderate ergonomics and middle-of-the-road suspension. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Honda CBR600RR | | MSRP: | $8599 | | Engine Type: | l-c 16v | | Displacement: | 599 inline-four | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 370 lb. | | Seat Height: | 32.3 in. | | Description: | Honda grabbed the brass ring with this deadly serious Supersport 600 last year, so there was no reason to change a thing for 2004. New paint options are candy blue, and a black/silver two-tone. Like the hot new CBR1000R, this puppy was modeled after Rossi's RC211V MotoGP bike, and it has the power, handling and overall swellness that so clearly implies. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Honda CBR600F4i | | MSRP: | $8199 | | Engine Type: | l-c 16v | | Displacement: | 599 inline-four | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 370 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.7 in. | | Description: | Europe got two models of this CBR, a hot Sport version (our F4i) and a regular model with a centerstand and a soft, single-piece seat. That bike is here for '04 as our F4i. Mechanically unchanged, the CBR is a fine and logical step down from the RR and should be a great all-arounder. Looks like a barracuda set loose in Hef's grotto, if you ask us. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Honda 919 | | MSRP: | $7999 | | Engine Type: | l-c 16v | | Displacement: | 919 inline-four | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 427 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.5 in. | | Description: | Honda's designed-in-Europe naked bike receives an adjustable fork (preload and rebound damping) for 2004, plus a couple of new colors: silver and something called Matt Uranium. Wasn't he George's neighbor on The Jetsons? Powered by a repurposed CBR900RR engine, the 919 has power and agility in its favor. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Honda Silver Wing | | MSRP: | $7599/$7999 (ABS) | | Engine Type: | l-c 8v | | Displacement: | 582 parallel-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | automatic | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 487 lb. | | Seat Height: | 29.1 in. | | Description: | Gack! Another scooter? But wait, this one's actually pretty cool. The swoopy Silver Wing packs a meaty 582cc twin driving an automatic V-belt transmission and is available with ABS in addition to the standard linked discs. There's plenty of storage, and it'll do freeway speeds. Honest. ABS models get two-tone paint schemes. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Honda 599 | | MSRP: | $7099 | | Engine Type: | l-c 16v | | Displacement: | 599 inline-four | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 401 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.1 in. | | Description: | The 919's little brother makes its first appearance here in the States for 2004, though it's been on the streets of Europe for years as the Hornet 600. Our 599 uses a carbureted, CBR600F3-based inline-four tuned for midrange and a steel-spine chassis. Colors: Asphalt (matte black) or Screaming Yellow. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Honda Reflex | | MSRP: | $5199/$5699 (ABS) | | Engine Type: | l-c 2v | | Displacement: | 249 single | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | automatic | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 362 lb. | | Seat Height: | 28.3 in. | | Description: | If you've got the cojones to ride a 250cc scooter, we salute you. The Reflex combines a reasonably powerful thumper engine, linked brakes--ABS is a $500 option--sleek good looks, plenty of storage and beginner-friendly handling. Just don't expect to out-drag a new Beetle. The new colors are black and red. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Honda Nighthawk | | MSRP: | $3399 | | Engine Type: | a-c 4v | | Displacement: | 234 vertical-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 5/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 287 lb. | | Seat Height: | 29.3 in. | | Description: | Will the last Nighthawk please stand up? With the demise of the Nighthawk 450 (long ago) and the 750 (this year), here you go: Honda's bottom-rung semi-sporty 'sickle. A favorite of vertically challenged riders, MSF instructors and extra-urban commuters, the son of Twinstar represents minimalist transportation. |
| Kawasaki — Sponsored By: | |
 | | Manufacturer and Model: | Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R | | MSRP: | $10,999 | | Engine Type: | l-c 16v | | Displacement: | 998 inline-four | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 375 lb. | | Seat Height: | 32.5 in. | | Description: | Kawasaki rolls out an all-new ZX-10R that's tiny for a literbike, with less frontal area than most 600s. Its all-new engine is much more compact and lighter and makes a ton more power, its exhaust is real titanium, and its aluminum frame arches up and over the engine to make the ZX-10R as narrow as possible. Zounds! |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Kawasaki Ninja ZX-12R | | MSRP: | $10,999 | | Engine Type: | l-c 16v | | Displacement: | 1198 inline-four | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 463 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.9 in. | | Description: | You'd think with the top-speed wars over, Kawasaki would let the ZX-12R molder. No way. For 2004, the big Zed gets new twin-throttle fuel injection for better responses to the helm, and trick radial-mount front brakes. (Maybe they got a package deal.) Blue or silver this year; green takes a holiday. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Kawasaki ZZR1200 | | MSRP: | $10,499 | | Engine Type: | l-c 16v | | Displacement: | 1164 inline-four | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 528 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.5 in. | | Description: | Kawasaki's revived ZX-11 stormed the sport-touring ranks as the bigger, faster ZZR1200 back in 2002, and for '04 the only news is paint: Silver is the only choice. GIVI-built hard luggage firmly establishes the ZZR1200R's sport-touring credentials. Packing 145 rear-wheel horses doesn't hurt, either. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Kawasaki Z1000 | | MSRP: | $8499 | | Engine Type: | l-c 16v | | Displacement: | 953 inline-four | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 437 lb. | | Seat Height: | 32.3 in. | | Description: | Mollify the old-schoolers with the Eddie Lawson-esque ZRX1200R, and you've got room in the model line to do this: a wicked, angular, new-age naked that takes obvious aim at Yamaha's standard-setting standard, the FZ1. A 1.8mm overbore on the ZX-9R engine gives 953cc, and you get dual-throttle injection as well as a trick four-muffler exhaust. Wheelies, anyone? |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Kawasaki Concours | | MSRP: | $8199 | | Engine Type: | l-c 16v | | Displacement: | 997 inline-four | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/shaft | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 595 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.1 in. | | Description: | Industry insiders predicted the Concours, which dates back to the 1980s, would bow out with the '02 arrival of the ZZR1200. In '04, they're still wrong. Although there's nothing new to note, the fact that the original Japanese sport-tourer is still around is saying a lot. Concours owners are, we're told, a loyal bunch. Color: Black with gray lowers. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R/6RR | | MSRP: | $7999/$8399 | | Engine Type: | l-c 16v | | Displacement: | 599 inline-four | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 355 lb. | | Seat Height: | 32.5 in. | | Description: | Kawasaki's old ZX-6R was loved for its all-around goodness. Well, screw that. The new 636cc Six is deadly serious, especially the race-ready RR version, which is sized at an honest 599cc to be eligible for racing; the RR sports a close-ratio trans and an adjustable swingarm pivot. New stuff for the RR in '04: new cams, bigger intake valves and other tweaks. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Kawasaki ZRX1200R | | MSRP: | $7899 | | Engine Type: | l-c 16v | | Displacement: | 1164 inline-four | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 5/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 492 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.1 in. | | Description: | There's no denying the appeal of the ZRX1200R, particularly to those who remember a certain Mr. E. Lawson hanging onto bilious-green, old-school, tube-frame superbikes for dear life. You won't find anything really new this year, save for a color combo--Lime Green is gone (sniff), replaced by silver with black or red with silver. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Kawasaki ZZR600 | | MSRP: | $6499 | | Engine Type: | l-c 16v | | Displacement: | 599 inline-four | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 430 lb. | | Seat Height: | 30.7 in. | | Description: | What's in a name? Not a lot, really. The 2004 ZZR600 is really '02's ZX-6E, but now wearing the European model designation. This former top-rank 600 seems a bit old-fashioned these days, but it still packs great power and offers what can only be called a middleweight sport-touring profile. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Kawasaki Ninja 500R | | MSRP: | $4799 | | Engine Type: | l-c 8v | | Displacement: | 498 vertical-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 388 lb. | | Seat Height: | 30.5 in. | | Description: | With the GS500 hiatus last year, you had to wonder if a blue-and-white Ninja 500R with a Katana badge would show up in Suzuki dealers . Alas, the Ninja remains the living legend, a feisty parallel-twin econobike that has real performance if not extreme sophistication. One of these days it'll get updated--but not today. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Kawasaki Ninja 250R | | MSRP: | $2999 | | Engine Type: | l-c 8v | | Displacement: | 248 vertical-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 304 lb. | | Seat Height: | 29.3 in. | | Description: | Back in the day, we all expected the high-revving, hard-charging Ninja 250 to revive the stagnant 250 class, but well, it's only one bike after all. Still selling in modest numbers to smaller riders and the few (but vocal) supporters of the quarter-liter sportbike class. Fast? Not really. Fun? Absolutely. |
| Moto Guzzi — Sponsored By: | |
 | | Manufacturer and Model: | Moto Guzzi MGS01 Corsa/Serie | | MSRP: | $NA | | Engine Type: | a-c 4v | | Displacement: | 1225/992 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/shaft | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 423/428 lb. | | Seat Height: | 32.3/31.9 in. | | Description: | Guzzi is rocketing--OK, rumbling--into the 21st century with its MGS-01 models. The Corsa is a racetrack-only machine, with a rousing 1225cc of overhead cam, four-valve goodness. The Serie is the street version, with the displacement pulled back to 992cc. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Moto Guzzi V11 Coppa Italia | | MSRP: | $14,590 | | Engine Type: | a-c 4v | | Displacement: | 1064 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/shaft | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 487 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.5 in. | | Description: | This commemorative Gooz was produced to celebrate the Italian Naked Bike Championship in 2003. The design is classic, proudly exposing the latest 90-degree V-twin, with its added crossover pipe and increased compression. Brembo Gold Series brakes, plus Oehlins suspension and steering damper are all good. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Moto Guzzi V11 Le Mans/Rosso Corsa/Nero Corsa | | MSRP: | $11,490/$13,990 | | Engine Type: | a-c 4v | | Displacement: | 1064 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/shaft | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 498 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.5 in. | | Description: | Moto Guzzi's top-rank sportbike for 2004 is the half-faired V11 Le Mans. Three versions are offered, the standard Le Mans and two up-spec versions, the Rosso Corsa and Nero Corsa. (Black or red, get it?) Both high-end bikes have Oehlins suspension but share the 1064cc V-twin and six-speed with the base Le Mans. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Moto Guzzi V11 Cafe Sport | | MSRP: | $13,990 | | Engine Type: | a-c 4v | | Displacement: | 1064 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/shaft | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 487 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.5 in. | | Description: | This version of the V11 is styled, appropriately enough, in a Cafe motif but with a refreshingly high handlebar and a relaxed riding position. Under the tank is the now-standard latest-gen longitudinal V-twin, complete with crossover pipe and higher 9.8:1 compression ratio. Plus, there are lots of carbon fiber bits. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Moto Guzzi V11 Ballabio | | MSRP: | $11,490 | | Engine Type: | a-c 4v | | Displacement: | 1064 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/shaft | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 498/487 lb. | | Seat Height: | 30.9/31.5 in. | | Description: | Descended indirectly from Guzzi's infamous 850 and 1000 Le Mans twins, the latest V11 claims 91 horses at 7800 rpm and comes with a practical half-fairing in red or black. Named after an Italian hillclimb, the Ballabio earns a Marzocchi fork and a Sachs shock. A small bikini fairing breaks the wind. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Moto Guzzi V11 Sport Naked | | MSRP: | $10,990 | | Engine Type: | a-c 4v | | Displacement: | 1064 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/shaft | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 487 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.5 in. | | Description: | Guzzi's latest-gen 90-degree V-twin provides the 91 horses' worth of oomph, breathing through a Marelli injection system and sending power, as always, through shaft final drive. If you like your riding done naked and Italian, this just might peg your excitement meter. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Moto Guzzi Breva V1100 I.E. | | MSRP: | $NA | | Engine Type: | a-c 4v | | Displacement: | 1064 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/shaft | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 514 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.5 in. | | Description: | Considering Moto Guzzi's penchant for making lots of models out of not so many different pieces, the Breva 1100 was all but inevitable. It's the same modern styling treatment of the Breva 750, but it uses the same 91-horse engine that powers all the V11 Guzzis. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Moto Guzzi Breva V750 I.E. | | MSRP: | $7790 | | Engine Type: | a-c 4v | | Displacement: | 744 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 5/shaft | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 401 lb. | | Seat Height: | 29.0 in. | | Description: | Moto Guzzi cribs from its past for this entry-level model, the Breva. Based on the old V75 pushrod V-twin, the Breva's air-cooled, transverse powerplant gets fuel injection and a five-speed transmission plus fresh styling, a newbie-friendly 31.1-inch-high seat and naked simplicity. What's not to like? |
| MZ — Sponsored By: | |
 | | Manufacturer and Model: | MZ 1000S | | MSRP: | $11,999 | | Engine Type: | l-c 8v | | Displacement: | 998 parallel-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 462 lb. | | Seat Height: | NA in. | | Description: | We're gonna get it--the MZ 1000S, that is. This radical semi-sporty model from our German friends could possibly vault the company into the big time. The engine is a neat counterbalanced, four-valve-per-cylinder parallel twin, the styling is crisp and the riding position apparently quite livable. Prost! |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | MZ Baghira Black Panther/Street Moto | | MSRP: | $6295 | | Engine Type: | l-c 5v | | Displacement: | 660 single | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 345 lb. | | Seat Height: | 34.5/NA in. | | Description: | This Yamaha-powered SuperMotard-style thumper looks like a bad boy, but don't be misled. It's actually a comfortable motorcycle upon which you will certainly not see yourself coming and going. Black Panther is, um, black. No changes for the 2004 models. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | MZ RT125/RT125 SM | | MSRP: | $2995/$3195 | | Engine Type: | l-c 4v | | Displacement: | 124 single | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 295/293 lb. | | Seat Height: | NA/34.4 in. | | Description: | One more (OK, small) reason to be thankful the Berlin Wall is down. The traditionally styled naked version (RT125) pairs up with the SuperMotard-wannabe RT125 SM. Both are powered by a liquid-cooled 124cc single, ride on teeny-tiny tires and promise the wet-behind-the-ears rider an easy time. |
| MV — Sponsored By: | |
 | | Manufacturer and Model: | MV Agusta F4 Brutale Oro/Strada | | MSRP: | $28,995/$13,995 | | Engine Type: | l-c 16v | | Displacement: | 750 inline-four | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 423 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.1 in. | | Description: | For years, we were promised the Brutale and now it's finally here. It's a compact, frenetic piece of Italian motodesire, with amazing looks, a high-revving engine, and suspension equally at home on the track as it is on the street. Hear the sound of an F1 grid every time you downshift. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | MV Agusta F4 SPR/STRADA EVO3 | | MSRP: | $22,695/$18,895 | | Engine Type: | l-c 16v | | Displacement: | 750 inline-four | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 423 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.1 in. | | Description: | MV's stunning superbike comes in the basic Strada format (whose engine is now on Evolution 3, hence the EVO3 moniker) and up-spec, ready-to-trackday SPR. With uprated suspension and a solo-only saddle, the SPR must be the dream bike for all well-heeled go-fasters. |
| Suzuki — Sponsored By: | |
 | | Manufacturer and Model: | Suzuki GSX1300R HAYABUSA | | MSRP: | $10,899 | | Engine Type: | l-c 16v | | Displacement: | 1299 inline-four | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 478 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.7 in. | | Description: | This is pretty much as good as real-world high-performance travel gets. With the speed war fading in memory, Suzuki is happy to let the 'Busa live out a quiet life--if you can call nine-second quarter-miles quiet--so there are no changes worth noting on the 2004 bike. Still way smooth, amazingly civil, surprisingly comfortable, blindingly fast. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Suzuki GSX-R1000 | | MSRP: | $10,599 | | Engine Type: | l-c 16v | | Displacement: | 988 inline-four | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 370 lb. | | Seat Height: | 32.7 in. | | Description: | Celebrated as the king of literbikes for a couple of years now, and for darn good reason--the GSX-R1000 packs mondo power, super-stable chassis, and a racing heritage second to none. It was freshened last year with a new fairing, a black frame and radial-mount brakes, so no major changes this year. Honda, Kawasaki and Yamaha are desperate to catch up. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Suzuki GSX-R750 | | MSRP: | $9549 | | Engine Type: | l-c 16v | | Displacement: | 749 inline-four | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 360 lb. | | Seat Height: | 32.5 in. | | Description: | Even though the 1000cc Superbike rules are threatening to make 750s an endangered species, Suzuki is still working hard on keeping the GSX-R750 on top, with an all-new, lighter engine for 2004. The pistons are lighter, the ports are bigger, the valves are titanium--you get the picture. It was great, now it's greater. Get one before it's too late, 750 fans. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Suzuki GSX-R600 | | MSRP: | $8099 | | Engine Type: | l-c 16v | | Displacement: | 599 inline-four | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 355 lb. | | Seat Height: | 32.5 in. | | Description: | Nothing ever stands still in the 600 class, and the all-new GSX-R600 is proof. The new engine has refinements just about everywhere, from cylinders integrated with the cases to friction-fighting tweaks to titanium valves. The chassis is also new, with radial brakes and a plethora of let's-go-faster improvements. It should be amazing. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Suzuki SV1000/S | | MSRP: | $7999/$8599 | | Engine Type: | l-c 8v | | Displacement: | 996 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 408/417 lb. | | Seat Height: | NA in. | | Description: | Identical except for the fairings and handlebars, the new SV1000 and SV1000S represent Suzuki's giving in to the marketplace. Since the SV650 bowed in 1999, riders have been crying for a full-liter version. Here it is, with a TL1000S-based engine, injection and angular styling. Ducati fun at a, well, Suzuki price. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Suzuki Burgman 650/400 | | MSRP: | $7699/$5599 | | Engine Type: | l-c 8v | | Displacement: | 638/385 parallel-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | CVT automatic | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 524/405 lb. | | Seat Height: | 29.5/27.4 in. | | Description: | The Burgman--available in both 400 and 650 sizes--is Suzuki's two-pronged assault on the ultrascooter market (if anything related to a scooter can be called an assault, that is). The funky yet swoopy superscooters feature fuel injection, comfy front and rear seats, step-through design and a CVT transmission. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Suzuki Bandit 1200S | | MSRP: | $7399 | | Engine Type: | a/o-c 16v | | Displacement: | 1157 inline-four | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 5/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 485 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.1 in. | | Description: | Stir in new colors (blue and gray this year) and a stainless-steel muffler, and you've got the major news for the big Bandit this year. A perennial favorite for its GSX-R1100-based air/oil-cooled engine, simple styling and honest personality, the Bandit is available in the half-faired S version only this year. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Suzuki Katana 750 | | MSRP: | $7299 | | Engine Type: | a/o-c 16v | | Displacement: | Burgmanine-four | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 465 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.1 in | | Description: | The Katana is designed for riders who want a livable, comfortable, fully faired sportbike but can't afford to buy (or insure) a GSX-R. No matter that its air/oil-cooled engine has its roots in the mid-1980s--it works, and works well. For 2004, the muffler is now stainless steel, and California models get a catalyzer. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Suzuki Katana 600 | | MSRP: | $6299 | | Engine Type: | a/o-c 16v | | Displacement: | 599 inline-four | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 458 lb. | | Seat Height: | 30.9 in. | | Description: | The 600 Katana survives for the same reason sharks have been around for millions of years: the design just works. We spoiled motojournalists love the latest and greatest, but for real people, in the real world, the Katana's combination of comfort, reliability and affordability is often just right. New colors (blue, yellow) and a stainless muffler for 2004. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Suzuki SV650/S | | MSRP: | $5899/$6299 | | Engine Type: | l-c 8v | | Displacement: | 645 V-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 364/372 lb. | | Seat Height: | NA in. | | Description: | Suzuki's compelling little V-twin got an overhaul for 2003, gaining fuel injection and a new aluminum frame, and we're glad to report that it's even more bitchin' than before. The '04 models will have a slightly lower seat height, making this perennial favorite even more appealing to the vertically challenged. |  | | Manufacturer and Model: | Suzuki GS500F | | MSRP: | $4999 | | Engine Type: | a/c 8v | | Displacement: | 487 parallel-twin | | Transmission Speeds and Final Drive: | 6/chain | | Claimed Dry Weight: | 397 lb. | | Seat Height: | 31.1 in. | | Description: | Wearing its new GSX-R-esque fairing and bodywork, the little air-cooled twin that could still can. Especially if you're new to this sportbike thing and maybe strapped for cash. A buck under $5000 buys you proven power in a friendly chassis with a fresh face for 2004. Rookie canyon commandos on a budget have a steadfast companion here. |
| Triumph — Sponsored By: | |
 | | Manufacturer and Model: | Triumph Sprint ST | | MSRP: | $10,300 | | Engine Type: | l-c 12v | |
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