Bike experts tackle big decision

MOTORCYCLE experts have taken to Tasmania’s roads to decide which model will be crowned Australia’s bike of the year.

The bikesales.com.au team tested the best bikes on the state’s windy and scenic roads and highways this week to determine which one would reign supreme.

Editor Mark Fattore said they had tested a variety of motorcycles, from a scooter worth about $10,000 to a big BMW touring bike worth a little under $40,000.

“I actually had the scooter coming into Queenstown on those beautiful 99 bends and it was actually quite fun,” he said.

“A lot of the testers have come from varied backgrounds so it’s been quite unique for them to try out different bikes on the Tasmanian roads.”

The crew started in Devonport, rode down to Bicheno and then west to Queenstown on the Lake Leake Highway before heading north again.

Mr Fattore said there were a few standouts from the field.

“For a touring bike it [the BMW] handles the twisty Tasmanian roads beautifully, it’s in the mix for the bike of the year honours,” he said.

“Kawasaki has a bike called the Z900RS, it’s a retro theme bike and that’s been a superb all-rounder so most of the testers have enjoyed that.”

He said the team would shortlist three bikes before the overall winner was announced at the Melbourne Moto Expo on November 23.