Tradex teeming with new machines
Fans of bikes and trikes won’t be disappointed by the selection and innovation on display
As much as the 2018 Vancouver bike show touts the great live demos and extensive aftermarket gear and clothing, most coming through the Tradex turnstiles are there for the machines. Particularly the new ones.
And this year’s show will not disappoint, with a number of exciting new motorcycles in all segments, and even a Canadian debut.
“The 2018 models cater to all types of riders and are designed to excite those who ride and those who are ‘motocurious,’” show manager Laurie Paetz said.
Here’s a look at some highlights:
Touring
You’ve no doubt heard about the latest incarnation of Honda’s iconic Gold Wing; this is your chance to see the 2018 model up close.
The reinvented two-seater’s design features a strong shoulder line and swept-back configuration. It’s lighter and boasts more technology than previous models, while its six-speed manual transmission with multiple riding modes and electronically adjustable suspension promises to enhance the riding experience.
Another great offering in this category is BMW’s K1600B. Like the Honda, it features a low, streamlined silhouette. Its six-cylinder power plant delivers impressive power, while some innovative suspension technology provides a smooth ride.
Adventure
KTM’s 1290 Super Adventure is making its Canadian debut. Touted as groundbreaking, its powerful engine and advanced safety and electronics package make it the ideal ride for any journey. It also comes with an extensive list of standard equipment
Triumph’s show lineup includes the Tiger 800, an adventure bike that features a host of rider-focused technology — including traction control and switchable ABS. The new 800 is also more powerful and more fuel efficient than previous models, while new LED lighting creates clear views in front and behind.
Three Wheelers
If your idea of touring leans more toward the trike, the Spyder F3 Limited is designed with extended cruising in mind.
With its additional cargo space, muscular design, heated grips, self-levelling rear suspension and exclusive UFit system, which easily positions the foot pegs according to the rider’s height, it has a lot going for it. Plus, it looks really cool.
Speaking of cool, the Polaris 2018 Slingshot is an open cockpit, sideby-side machine straight out of a Mad Max movie. It boasts an industry-leading Ride Command infotainment system, and comes in a variety of colours and models.
Sport
What would a show be without a new Ninja from Kawasaki? Fans of the famous nameplate won’t be disappointed in the 2018 Ninja 400.
Clad in sharp new Ninja styling, it delivers greater performance than its predecessors thanks to a more powerful engine and a much lighter chassis.
Suzuki is also bringing anew rocket to Vancouver. The 2018 RM-Z450 wraps a sleek, race-ready appearance around a stronger engine and a nimble chassis that delivers extraordinarily precise handling. It also has stronger brakes for better stopping power and a wider spread of engine muscle with higher peak power.
Street/Performance
Kawasaki’s Z900RS is billed as “a synthesis of the traditional and modern.”
The bike’s engine and chassis are designed to not be too quick, making it easier to feel at one with the bike. Styling elements are complemented by high-tech features such as LED lighting and digital instrumentation.
Also in this category is Suzuki’s SV650X, which boasts lower emissions, increased performance and outstanding fuel economy. The benefits of its lighter weight and streamlined design include more responsive acceleration, nimble handling and greater confidence in manoeuvring.
Cruisers
Indian Motorcycle will be showing the newest member of its Scout family. The Scout Bobber pays homage to the lean and mean, strippeddown builds of the postwar era. Its blacked-out wheels, knobby tires and lowered rear suspension give this bike real attitude.
Another new bike in this category worth checking out is the Fat Bob from Harley, the most powerful, agile and responsive cruiser in the Harley lineup for 2018. With its stiffer frame, lighter weight and never seen before asymmetrical tank graphic, it remains true to HD roots.
Dual Sport/Off Road
Ducati’s Scrambler 1100 has been streamlined for 2018, and is powered by a new air/oil-cooled 1079cc L-Twin engine producing some 89 ponies. Other notable changes include ABS, cornering ABS, and a traction control system.
Honda CRF250R’s most significant upgrade for 2018 is the DOHC engine featuring increased power and higher redline. The four-stroke engine features a dual-overheadcam design with twin exhaust ports. Also, an electric starter is now standard.
Suzuki’s completely redesigned 2018 RM-Z450 features a race-ready appearance wrapped around a stronger engine and nimble chassis. The new bike has stronger brakes for better stopping power and a wider spread of engine muscle with higher peak power.