Low tech, high fun...

I t’s crazy how tech’s taken over. Probably like you, I don’t have to think back too far to a time when traction control and the rest was the preserve of the GP gods, but now rider aids are more common than chlamydia. This isn’t meant to be a rant about tech, though. It’s more a case of grasping reality and highlighting how times have moved on irrevocably. Most modern sportsbikes come bristling with tech and Kawasaki’s H2 SX SE is no exception.

We pitched the supercharged sensation against an old school Hayabusa for this issue’s cover test, and had a right hoot in the process. Both bikes were great for their own individual reasons, but while the Kwacker held the key to no-nonsense, drama-free fast riding, there was a big part of me that envied Boothy (that doesn’t happen very often) each time he cracked the technophobic Suzuki’s throttle wide open and unleashed relentless power wheelies, plus the odd bit of rear wheel steering. He looked to be having a right laugh, while I was treated to a colourful disco display from the H2’s life-preserving systems.

It was a sign of the times and a nod to the way things used to be when manufacturers brought out nigh-on 200bhp bikes, such as the ‘Busa, with little more assistance than ABS for comfort. Are we likely to ever see such bikes again? Judging by the new bikes we’ve tested this month, including the MV Agusta Brutale 800RR, Kawasaki ZX-10R SE and Honda’s new hi-spec CB1000R, probably not. And there’s about as much chance of Suzuki holding back on tech when it releases the highly anticipated next generation Hayabusa as Pretty Boy has of winning a club race – check out the Race Riot section for the odds on that one.

Still, there are loads of great tech-free bikes on the used market, including the Daytona 675 we’ve featured in our Reader’s Rides piece this month; a straight talking pocket rocket. I’ve never known any other bike so universally loved as the Daytona. I’m a big fan too, and so is my little brother Brod, who’s just claimed four podiums on his. Boothy’s also a lover of his own wee Trumpet, which he’ll be contesting at this year’s TT – make sure to throw him some abuse if you see him. Yes, the greatest show on earth will soon be upon us and we’re pretty optimistic that it will be epic. One man who’s desperate to be there and challenging for wins is Ian Hutchinson, who’s told us all about his battle to be fit in time, plus lots of other great insight. Enjoy the mag and make the most of this great weather.