EICMA 2019 Summary

EICMA 2019 has been and gone, and with all manufacturers releasing something new and exciting here is a rundown of what we know!

Aprilia

We knew the RS660 was coming, Aprilia showed the concept at EICMA last year, and teased it a few weeks ago. Now the covers are off the production model, we get the first ideas about what could possibly be the most hotly anticipated 2020 model. The new 660cc parallel-twin takes half of the 1100cc RSV4 engine and uses a 270-degree crank angle, which should give a distinctive soundtrack.

The electronics package seems to be lifted straight off the RSV4 with Traction control, cornering ABS, Adjustable rider modes, up and down quickshifter wheelie control, and adjustable engine braking.

Essentially a baby RSV4, this could be in extremely high demand, and I genuinely can’t wait.

It doesn’t just stop there. The concept for a Tuono 660 was shown, and if Aprilia follows suit from the RS, expect to see a production model at next year’s show.

As usual, the RSV4 100 Factory gets an update, with new suspension and IMU. Power peaks at 217hp, with carbon wings and aerodynamic devices with experience drawn from the RS-GP Moto GP Prototype.

The Tuono Factory gains an update with carbon paneling and the same suspension and IUM updates as the RSV4 Factory. Power sits at 175hp, and as ever torque is plentiful from the V4 lump.

Aston Martin Brough Superior

The new collaboration between Aston Martin and Brough Superior leads to the creation of the turbocharged AMB 001 track bike. With a price tag of £93,000 and a limited production run of strictly 100 units, the none road legal bike takes the current Brough 1000cc V-Twin and turbocharger it’s set to make 180hp.

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Aston Martin’s experience with turbochargers came in handy with the turbocharger. Use of a VGT unit (variable geometry Turbo) allows the aspect ratio of the blades inside the housings to be changed depending on engine load and RPM. The system allows for a balanced performance throughout the whole rev range, it generates more boost at lower RPM’s but then wont starve the engine at higher RPM.

With it being listed as a track bike sees no noise, emissions, or homologation standards to meet, giving freedom to do whatever the designers felt like. The slick shod chassis is complete with a Titanium frame, carbon fiber rear subframe and carbon fiber bodywork. Wishbone forks with a single shock hidden away on the front end under the nose cone. The other side of the nosecone we get a full-colour TFT dashboard and tan handlebar grips.

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Time will tell if any of these bikes will be actually used properly, or just collection pieces, I really hope its the former.

Bimota

Small Italian manufacturer Bimota has always pushed the boundaries of motorcycle design. Still, like other Italian artisan manufacturers, they have a troubled history. Bankruptcy in 2000, after years of worrying finances, meant the factory closed its doors, until an investment buyout.

Word had been floating around for a while that Kawasaki was keeping an eye on the Italian company. With news at EICMA that Kawasaki has officially partnered with Bimota and “Considered it a privilege to be able to, through Italian Motorcycle Investment, support the Bimota brand in its revival.”

Among this sees a brand new Tesi H2. Most remember the Tesi 3D, the funky front hub center steered, Ducati Multistrada powered, which most thought disappointing. The new model sees a front and rear swing arm arrangement, with the Tesi’s unusual hub center steering, striking design but the engine and running gear from the insane Supercharged Kawasaki H2. Bonkers.

Carbon, and Ohlin’s feature and the dash has come straight from the H2, plus I spot other Kawasaki components too, these premium components surely will demand a high price. Hopefully, this partnership steadies Bimota, and support from Kawasaki could lead to great things, and with targets of selling 200 Bimota units in 2020, fingers crossed we see them in the UK.

BMW  Motorrad

BMW Motorrad has been busy. After a big year last year welcoming the new R1250GS and S1000RR, to name a few, many thought it was going to be a quiet year. Germany had different ideas, and to further their quest to become the number one premium bike manufacturer, BMW has launched four bikes.
We knew it was coming, one of BMW’s best sellers, the S1000XR has had its major update. BMW describes the new version as ‘lighter, faster and more versatile’ than the old model.
Despite this, it wasn’t the update that 99% of us were expecting. That was the revolutionary shift cam engine which powers the S1000RR and the R1250GS from last year. The new engine has been developed, but still makes the same power as the previous generation at 162hp.

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Instead, we get a lighter chassis shaving 10kg’s from the outgoing version, due to the luggage configurations. In theory, this should be every bit as good as the previous model, but better!

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A new F900R replaces the outgoing F800R. With a bored out block, styling update, and more aggressive look. The F800’s under-seat fuel tank has been moved back to the normal position but loses a liter in capacity on the new machine. This, among other features, makes the bike heavier by around 8kg’s but the 10hp increase should make up for that.
Not content with one XR in the line-up, BMW has created an F900XR using the previous F900R as a base and made a mini S1000XR. Both the F900R and the F900XR will have the 895cc engine which generates 105 hp, they come with BMW’s full electronics package including ABS, TCS, and a TFT dash.
Optional extra’s include electronic suspension, cornering ABS, Quickshifter, and keyless ignition. Seat height is 825mm which could make a great sporty tourer for the shorter-legged.

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BMW also showed off the latest iteration of the Concept R18 cruiser, which debuted at the Concorso d’Eleganza earlier in the year. The second-generation dubbed the /2 or ‘Slash Two’, features a modern designed cruiser with the air/oil-cooled 1800cc boxer engine, dual exhaust pipes, and stunning sweeping design.

Ducati

Much like BMW, Ducati hasn’t been quiet at this year’s show. After Pikes Peak earlier in the year, we knew the new V4 Streetfighter was coming, and we expected a 959 replacement, both of which were announced.

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The successful V4S gets an update incorporating an aero package from the race developed V4R, plus other refinements to make one of the best even betterer if that makes sense. V4R winglets and a stiffened front frame give added front end feel. The ride by wire system has been updated after data feedback from customers and Superbike race events. Making the changes, Ducati says it will increase stability, turn-in speed and provide more confident throttle control. The S also has been updated to use Ohlins second-generation Smart electronic control unit, and this unleashes the full potential of the IMU.

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The new V4 Streetfighter first seen at Pikes Peak earlier in the year is essentially a V4, stripped of fairings, and with wide bars. With a weight of 178kg and 208 horsepower, with biplane wings, and the full Panigale V4 electronics suit means this is going to be a beast.
Not content yet, Ducati announced a new Baby Panigale called the V2, an evolution from the outgoing 959. The wholly redesigned chassis features a new sophisticated electronics package, comfier riding position, and striking new looks, based on its bigger brother. Powered by the 955cc Superquadro engine, and producing 155 hp, with 176kg dry weight, this new model is exciting. For that reason, the British Superbike Championship has chosen the V2 to be the Tri-Options cup bike for 2020.

Not forgetting the Scrambler division of Ducati, on show was a DesertX Concept, which looked every bit a fully-fledged off-road machine. Paying homage to Ducati and their entry into the Dakar in the ’90s the DesertX looks fantastic, with its split fuel tanks, knobbly tires, upright position, and long-travel suspension. Powered by the 1100cc lump, and with a beauty of a Termi system, could this be the bike that takes it to the Triumph Scrambler? I hope so, this thing is a beauty.

Harley Davidson

American powerhouse Harley Davidson, seems to have taken a step towards modern times. With the announcement of the Livewire last year, H-D has gone big again in 2020. The reveal of the Bronx and Pan America really could be pivotal to the history of the company. Let’s be honest H-D like to stick to what they have been doing for a long time, so the announcement of the Livewire last year was a breath of fresh air, and this year there’s been another gulp of air. Harley has made their first adventure bike, the Pan America.

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Using an all-new liquid-cooled V-Twin 1250cc engine which makes 145hp, dubbed the Revolution Max. Not just changing there, H-D has given it chain drive, not their familiar belt, and a trellis frame. Brembo brakes fitted, to wire-spoke wheels, and inverted forks mean this H-D is pretty up to date. The styling is….an acquired taste, and the main thing is the price. Will the price rule it out of fighting against the big boys of this bikes market, mainly BMW and KTM.
Also released is the Bronx, a middleweight naked using a 975cc smaller version of the Revolution max engine, good for 115hp. It’s a good looking bike and could be an alternative to some other middle-class nakeds. However, we are still a bit thin on details and equipment. What will the electronics package contain? Will it be a belt or chain-driven? Most importantly, how much is it going to be? It might be the latter point which unfortunately could be the limiting factor here in the UK.

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Honda

Japanese giants Honda have also been very busy over the past year, with the unveiling of the new CBR1000RRR Fireblade. Multiple updates hit other models in the 2020 line up. Visual changes to the CB1000 naked which debuted at the show last year, mainly due to paint colours, options and an added a painted pinstripe centrally.

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The small cc cruiser CMX500 rebel gets an aggressive-looking quad-LED headlamp, and a new LCD display, which shows MPG, and gear position. The engine has been updated to meet Euro 5 regulations, but the performance figures remain similar, gaining .5 of a hp.

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Also updated is the 2020 Africa Twin, with Honda calling it a major evolution, with increased performance. This comes from a lighter chassis, slimmer bodywork, and a new rider seating position. The weight is reduced by 5kg, and the new larger cc engine gains more power while also being Euro 5 compliant. The bike’s electronics have been upgraded to a new six-axis IMU, plus ABS, Wheelie control, rear lift control, and the new Cornering detection functionality available on the DCT model. A new 6.5″ TFT touchscreen works with Apple car play and Bluetooth connectivity.

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The new 1084cc engine boosts power and torque, and both manual and DCT engines and transmissions save 2.5kg and 2.2kg respectively. Seat height remains at 850, with an 825mm low seat option available

Husqvarna

One of the most significant pieces of news from Husqvarna was the announcement of a Moto3 return with MAX racing team. The factory-supported outfit will field two new FR250GP machines. With the team owned by 4 times 250cc world champion Max Biaggi, and managed by Peter Öttl, the two new bikes will be raced by Romano Fenati and Alonso Lopez.

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With Husqvarna being owned by KTM, it would be a massive surprise to see anything other than a KTM engine and WP suspension.

Aside from racing, Husqvarna is driven to join the top 3 European bike manufacturers. Still, to do so, they need an active street bike range. With many new models on show, they are certainly not taking it easy.

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There are lots of concepts, firstly the NORDEN 901, a twin-cylinder long-distance touring machine. Featuring an 889.5cc parallel-twin engine, with a 21″ front and 18″ rear wheel, if this makes it out of concept stage, it could be a real eye-opener.

Not just fixated on making concepts the fantastic Vitpilen 701 and Svartpilen 701, get updates with new colour and trim options, including a saucy looking metallic blue number.

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The baby Vitpilen and Svartpilen 401’s also gets new colours and graphics, but also a new subframe, extended by 40mm, which should give the pillion more comfort.

Also, the Husqvarna hooligan supermoto machinery range gets its yearly update, but as I’m too short to touch the floor on those, I’ll skip them.

Indian

Last year Indian knocked it out of the park with the flat track styled FTR 1200. The barnstormer did well, so much so Indian has released a new version named the FTR Rally. Utilising last year’s FTR, but with a changed riding position, and wire-spoke wheels, with Pirelli Scorpion knobbly tires. Looking more street scrambler than a flat tracker. With 123hp on tap, from the thumping V-Twin, housed in a Trellis frame, with USD forks and Brembo brakes it does not lack in the equipment department either. Also included is a USB fast-charge port, ProTaper 50mm raised bars and LED indicators and headlight. Indian also has a range of accessories to customise the FTR to how you like it.

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Kawasaki

If you have read from the start, you will already have learned that Kawasaki has teamed up with Bimota for the new Tesi, but Team Green, have been busy with their own new bikes too. With a total of six new bikes here is a quick run down.

The ZH2 was leaked a few weeks before the show, so this came as no surprise to us, but the first physical appearance at EICMA answered lots of questions.

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As expected we get the full LED lights, an updated trellis chassis, Brembo front brakes, and of course that insane supercharged engine. Also, we get the usual electronic aids, with rider modes, launch control, TCS, and intelligent advanced cornering ABS. The supercharged engine which also features in the H2 SX SE giving us 200hp.

I can’t wait to ride the new ZH2, reading the tech sheets it promises to be fantastic just from the innovative technology used by Team Green.

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The Z range has had some modernising tweaks. The Z900 has an update adding a TFT dash, LED lighting, adjustable power modes, Bluetooth connectivity and the other electrical tech featured on the ZH2. Not just electrical changes, the engine has been reworked to meet Euro 5 regs and Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 rubber.

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Pushing the boundary, the Z650 and Ninja 650 also gets the same above electrical update too, which is great to see the tech trickling down to the middleweight class bikes. The 2020 Z650 gets a TFT colour screen, bluetooth and LED lights.

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Kawasaki’s best selling Z1000 has an update to the Ninja 1000SX, with an option of the touring pack. More aggressive styling, adjustable rider modes, quickshifter hopefully makes this a great touring choice. Again, Kawasaki’s electronic package features all the displays, tricks, and toys from the other new models.

KTM

Austrian giants KTM have unveiled three brand new models for their 2020 range. The successful 1290 Super Duke R gets a complete overhaul, a brand new 890 Duke R and also the eagerly anticipated 390 Adventure.

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The 2020 1290 Super Duke R has been ‘Re-Beasted’, with KTM saying it has had it’s ‘Most radical re-invention yet’. This re-beasting includes an entirely new chassis styling and electronics package while trimming weight, and increasing power. Shaving 6kg’s off to make a claimed dry weight of 189kg, while taking two litres off the fuel tank size. Hopefully, the increased efficiency from the engine will make up for the size reduction.

Power has increased to 177hp, while still meeting Euro 5 Regulations; however, torque is slightly reduced.

One big question from the teaser video was what suspension was the new bike going to have. The teaser video track prepared bike had a WP system similar to the Showa BFF. We now we have details telling us its WP’s Apex system front and rear. The Brembo brakes have been updated to the Stylema caliper, previously seen on the Ducati V4S, and the rear tire has gone up to a 200 profile for some added grip.

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KTM has also updated the 790 Duke to make the 890, upping it from 799cc to 899cc. This means the new 890 generates 119hp up from the 790s 103, with 9 extra ft-lbs of torque. These benefits mainly come from a reworked engine, with larger valves, learier cams, and an upped compression ratio, plus an extra 250rpm to play with.

The previous budget belter has become a rather good spec machine, thanks to adjustable WP suspension, and new Michelin Power tires. Unfortunately, these added extra’s, do add extra to the price which jumps from £8799 to £10,399, which at that price point pips it against some other BIG rivals.

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Also released is Team Orange’s new baby adventure bike, suitable for A2 riders. Taking the powerplant and running gear off the 390 Duke, it makes 43hp and comes with the cable operated but the assisted clutch on the 390.

Of course, the frame remains Trellis, as that is what KTM is known for, and we also get WP suspension which is rebound and compression adjustable. The fuel tank is larger than that of its small cc touring/adventure rivals at 14.5 litres, the only downside is despite it being a small cc bike, the seat height is still tall at 855mm.

Moto Guzzi

With the successful year since the release of the V85TT, Moto Guzzi have created the V85TT Travel edition. The travel edition adds a higher taller windscreen, dual panniers, heated grips and smartphone integration allowing calls and sat nav to be used through the instrument cluster.

Also a 750 unit limited edition Guzzi V7 III Stone S has been produced, gaining a satin chrome fuel tank, complete with black leather, full LED lights, bar end mirrors, and the streamlined profile.

Not stopping there, Guzzi announce the V7 III Racer 10th Anniversary. Since 2001 the racer has been the beauty of the range, and the anniversary edition sees a full celebration which includes LED lights, café racer styling improved and also paintwork tributes to the V7 heritage.

MV Agusta

After stunning everybody last year with the release of the Superveloce 800 concept, and making the production version ready to hit dealers, MV has done it once again.

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The SuperVeloce is coming in two models, the ultra-exclusive Serie Oro, which is near as dammit identical to the concept model on show in 2018. The SuperVeloce is based on the F3 800, with a restyle into what the best looking bike since the original F4 1000 all those years ago. The Serie Oro or Gold series to us none Italian speakers, resembles the concept bike from last year. It retains the modern style ‘Astralite’ looking split rims, the track only Arrow exhaust system, and of course billet and carbon everything. The Gold Series gets 5hp more than the standard model due to the Arrow system.

Strangely for MV, there is an affordable version of the same bike. Without the carbon bodywork and coming on standard F3 wheels, plus without some of the other ‘Exclusive’ items from the Serie Oro, like the leather fuel tank strap and matching fuel cap. Despite this, it still comes equipped with full LED lights, TFT screen and a complete rider electronics package.

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MV has also claimed the position of teenage bedroom pin-up poster back, from whatever had it before, with the new Rush 1000. Based on the Brutale 1000RR the Rush gets new beautiful paintwork LED light suite and more carbon fibre than you can shake a stick at. Wings, shotgun-style SC-Project exhausts, and Uber cool carbon fibre aero rear wheel just adds to the pin-up appeal. Billet aluminium and titanium parts keep the weight down, and also equipped with Electric Ohlins and top-class Brembo Stylema brakes.

The inline 4 Euro 5 compliant 1000cc engine makes 214hp with the optional extras fitted, and comes with all the electronic rider aids too. The signage on the stand had a start price of 35k Euros or £30k. Bargain.

Suzuki

We knew a new VStrom was on the cards from the teaser videos released by Suzuki. We didn’t know there were two variations, the standard and the XT. Also, the VStrom 1000 has now followed the trend and grown to 1050cc. This increase in engine size generates 7% more power, and with styling based on the iconic DR-Z DR BIG 90s’ racer, it looks great.

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Available in the orange and white Dakar-Esq racer colours, and also a yellow version paying homage to Suzuki’s off-roading colours.
As well as the new engine and restyling, we get a full electronic update to SIRS (Suzuki Intelligent Ride System). This includes a new IMU, lean-sensitive ABS, adaptive linked brakes, and hill hold control.

The 650 VStrom remains the same technically, but Suzuki’s entry-level enduro bike gets new colours. Expect new 650 Vstrom at Eicma 2020.

Sadly that was mostly it from Suzuki, no new Hayabusa, no new Biking hyper naked to take on the V4 Streetfighter or ZH2, maybe next year.

Triumph

Triumph has one of the most extensive ranges for 2020, and only half of it remained a secret before EICMA 2019. We knew about the new Street triple 765 RS, the new Rocket III, and the Moto GP inspired limited edition Daytona 765.

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The new Street Triple RS has had powerplant updated by the Moto 3 engine guru’s, to make it Euro 5 compliant. Despite being compliant, performance numbers are all higher with 9% more peak power, mid-range power, and torque. The gearbox has also had an update incorporating a slip and assist clutch. As well as the engine, the styling has had an update with new twin LED headlights with daytime running lights, and a carbon fibre finished end can. MyTriumph connectivity has been enhanced with sat-nav, music and GoPro interaction all through the TFT dash, and self-cancelling indicators.

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Adding to the Street Triple RS is the 2020 Thruxton RS, a bike which Triumph says will ‘Evolve the legend further’. The Thruxton R was was a fantastic bike, so the new RS should be really special. Showa front and Ohlins rear suspension, Brembo brakes, and Metzeler Racetec tires continue the Thruxton R’s legacy of quality components. The updated 1200cc engine gains 8hp, and revs harder, faster, something the Thruxton R wasn’t lacking. Adding to the more power, the chassis itself is 6kg lighter. Triumph also offers a ‘Track racer’ inspiration kit, something I really like the sounds of.

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Not forgetting the Bonneville T120 and T100, two new special editions will launch celebrating the iconic name of Bud Ekins. The motorcycle icon, stuntman, racer, who made the jump in the film The Great Escape, with his friend Steve McQueen. The hand painted bikes will be come a must have for Triumph collectors.

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Lastly and by no means least we get the third TFC (Triumph Factory Custom) installment in the form of the Bobber. With a limited run of 750 worldwide, the TFC has an upgraded engine over the standard Bobber and Bobber Black gaining an extra 10hp, plus the ability to rev harder and faster. Gaining the TFC treatment showers the Bobber TFC in premium components like Arrow pipes, Carbon fibre bodywork, Brembo brakes and the one of a kind TFC paint scheme.

Still no Speed Triple mega update though…

Yamaha

Much like other brands, Yamaha did most of its 2020 reveals early. The new R1 was launched at WSBK and BSB events, all long before the EICMA show. The New Tracer 700 was unveiled by YouTube a few weeks ago, along with the new TMax. Yamaha backstage showed us the new MT125, MT03, and the Tricity 300.

Rather disappointingly there was no R6 update, no MT10 update, and no new MT07.