Tops Speed

2012 Kawasaki Ninja 1000 (ABS) Concept In 2008 Kawasaki implemented a number of tweaks and updates to the 14 aimed at improving low-end power, but the new model was given a head-to-toe going over for 2012. Although the land rocket of a sportbike retains a familiar look while gaining the R designation, below the surface the biggest of the Ninjas received its most comprehensive revision since its 2006 debut.

The 2011 Ninja 1000 is therefore fitted with a 1043cc inline four-cylinder engine outputting 136hp (101kW) and 110 Nm (81 lb.ft.), as well as with Z1000s aluminium frame, plus the same suspension and brakes.

The Ninja is blessed with rideability an incredible blend of ability on the street and extreme ease of operation. The source of all this two-wheeled goodness is Kawasaki’s own and now legendary Z1000 super standard, the engine and chassis platform upon which the Ninja 1000 is based. The Z1000 has earned some of motorcycling’s highest accolades, including a slot in Cycle World’s Ten Best collection as Best Standard for 2010 and 2011. With guts like that, it’s easy to see where the big Ninja’s impressive chops come from.

The Ninja 1000s lightweight aluminum frame is similar to Kawasakis famed liter bike, the ZX-10R. The frame cradles the engine from above, and bolts to the motor solidly in three spots, with the final mount rubber-backed for added vibration isolation and torisonal rigidity.

Along with the frame and suspension elements derived from the world of sport bikes, you get light-weight wheels and sport bike instrumentation. The instruments are taken from the ZX-6R, with different fonts and colors. Included is a very legible, traditional analog tachometer next to an LCD screen that includes a speedometer, fuel gauge, clock, dual trip meters and assorted warning lamps. The fuel gauge is easily read at a glance, it is appreciated when combined with the comfort and long-distance touring capabilities of this bike.

2012 Suzuki V-Strom 1000 Test Drive The Suzuki V-Strom 1000 was first introduced in 2002; it got its V-Strom name by the “V” of its 996cc V-twin engine, and the German word “Strom” which translates roughly to power. The V-Strom 1000 has had a great deal of success in America, but it has not been sold here since 2009.

Currently the V-Strom comes in two variations: the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 and the Suzuki V-Strom 650, which differ only in the displacement of its engine. The V-Strom 1000 is powered by a 996cc V-Twin engine as used in the decommissioned Suzuki TL1000R sportbike and TL1000S street bike, while the V-Strom 650 shares the 645cc V-Twin from the SV650 and Gladius models. Both engines feature liquid-cooling and high efficiency 8-valve cylinder heads. Other similarities include six-speed transmissions, comfortable upright ergonomics, excellent wind protection and a large fuel tank making the V-Strom an excellent companion for extended motorcycle rides.

The suspension system is still comprised of a cartridge-style 43mm front fork with adjustable preload and a link-type rear suspension with adjustable rebound damping and preload. Both offer 6.3 inches of travel.Stopping power is provided by twin-piston calipers with a 310mm rotor up front and a single-piston caliper gripping a 260mm rotor at the rear. Unlike with the 650 version, the V-Strom 1000 models will not be offered with ABS.

2012 Suzuki V-Strom 1000 Specs:

• Bore Stroke: 98.0 mm (3.858 in) x 66.0 mm (2.598 in)

• Compression Ratio: 11.3 : 1

• Engine: 996 cc (60.8 cu. In), 4-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 90-degree V-twin 9

• Fuel System: Fuel injection

• Ignition: Electronic ignition (Transistorized)

• Lubrication: Wet sump

• Starter:Electric

• Brakes Front: Disc brake, twin

• Brakes Rear: Disc brake

• Curb Weight: 238 kg (525 lbs) (Adventure, TBD)

• Final Drive: RK525 SMOZ7, 112 link

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 22 L (5.8/4.8 US/Imp gal)

• Ground Clearance: 165 mm (6.5 in)

• Overall Length: 2295 mm (90.4 in)