EASY RIDERS AND TOP BIKES OF 2018
Kawasaki H2 SX SE and KTM 790 Duke WELL, it’s that time of year again when I reflect on all the amazing machinery I have had the privilege of riding over the past 12 months.
So, follow me in merry measure as I look back at my favourite bikes of 2018.
As my long-term loaner, the Strom has been in my garage for most of the year. It’s seen other adventure bikes come and go, seemingly with bigger and bigger Suzuki’s engines each time, as nimble V-strom 1000 XT other manufacturers push on to 1200cc and above.
For me, though, the Suzuki is the perfect size, has plenty of grunt, is light, nimble and comfortable to ride all day, all with tech features which belie its competitive price tag.
I was in Paris for the launch of this magnifique threewheeled super-scooter. The French city is the, er, capital of scooter use in the Western world – both on two and three wheels – and this latest MP3 looks set to put an Italian on the Gallic throne.
It’s super stable, finished to a high quality and has lots of storage and plenty of oomph to get you through the rush-hour traffic – and beyond.
The Austrian manufacturer’s first model to use a parallel twin is a real pocket rocket. Somehow, the designers have squeezed nearly 800cc into a dinky machine that weighs in at just 169kg.
It has incredible power and torque, handles like a dream, has lean-sensitive braking and traction control, and comes with a quickshifter and a brilliant TFT screen. It also packs a beautiful engine with a super sweet sound.
What’s not to like?
In a way, I’m kind of sad to see my long-term favourite the Kawasaki ZZR 1400 knocked of its perch. But the H2, by the same manufacturer, really is even better.
Using a supercharger means the Kwaka boffins have got 1400cc performance from a 1000cc bike – putting out an awesome 200bhp.
It comes with class-leading technology, a beautiful TFT display, slipper clutch, quickshifter, launch control, fantastic stopping power… the list goes on.
It’s a joy to ride with incredibly stable, super smooth, precise handling and is comfortable enough for all-day touring.
Unbeatable.