HONDA'S NEW 2008 MODELS FOR EUROPE:The three new models, the CBR 1000 RR, the XL 700V Transalp and the CBF 600 S were on display at last month's Paris International Motorcycle Show.
The high-performance CBR 1000 RR super sports bike has undergone a full model change. "It features the latest in advanced technologies honed in Honda's MotoGP FIM Road Racing World Championship Grand Prix machines," according to Honda.
The engine and frame construction have been changed along with the fairing design for weight reduction and greater concentration of mass.
The dual-purpose sports XL700V Transalp (right) is fitted with a two-cylinder, V-twin engine, "That delivers powerful low to mid-range torque for outstanding performance in all riding conditions," claims Honda. The engine displacement has been increased from 650cc to 700cc for improved acceleration, and the headlight has been redesigned for a more aggressive look.
The popular, agile CBF600S sports model (below left) has been given a further boost in performance with a more compact, lightweight engine with enhanced output in an all-new aluminium die-cast, mono-backbone frame. The motorcycle manufacturer has also announced that for the first time, the CBF600 will feature Honda's Combined Brake System (CBS), which works in synergy with their Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). This combination, according to Honda, "ensures outstanding braking control for a safer, more stable ride."
JAPANESE RACER KILLED
Japanese motorcycle racer Norifumi 'Norick' Abe died in a traffic accident near his home in Kawasaki, Japan, last Sunday week. He was 32 years old. According to local police, the racer was riding his motorcycle when he collided with a truck.
Abe's racing career spanned 10 years. He took the first of his three wins in the world championships in 1996 in Japan and clocked up a total of 17 podium finishes from his 144 grand prix appearances. His last MotoGP race was in 2004 at the Valencia Grand Prix.
Since leaving the world championship, he had been competing in Japan as part of the All-Japan Superbike Championship.
SUNFLOWER BREAKFAST RUN
Joe Duffy Motorrad has organised a Breakfast Run to coincide with the Sunflower Trophy Motorcycle races which take place at the Bishopscourt Race Circuit, Co Down, this Sunday (October 21st).
"The Sunflower Race of the day is an invitation race and will feature top Irish competitors together with invited racers from overseas. The other races, from 125cc right up to the Irish Superbike class, will also be very closely contested, as this is the final race meeting of the year and results count towards various Ulster and Irish Championships," according to Dave Humphreys of Joe Duffy Motors.
Bikers will meet at the dealership, off the M50, North Road, Finglas from 8.30am for coffee and leave at 9am sharp to stop for breakfast along the way.
For more information, log on to: www.joeduffymottorrad.ie
If you have motorbike news, e-mail motorbikes@irish-times.ie