2011 Kawasaki Brute Force 650 4x4i Review

The Kawasaki uses a 633cc 90-degree V-Twin engine that dishes out a ton of low- and mid-range torque with high rpm power that takes off like a rocket when you punch the throttle. Thanks to the well balanced Twin, the machine is easy to handle at both high and low speeds, exactly what adventure riders and outdoor sportsmen demand. Still carbureted with dual 34mm Keihin's, the throttle response doesn't suffer any lag or unpredictable responses in certain situations.

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2012 KTM 500 XC-W Review

My first impression was how small it feels. All full size KTMs now share the same basic frame and body dimensions. Therefore, the 200 and 500 have the same cockpit size. The Neken bar has lots of sweep, similar to the newer Rental 672 of the 2011models.

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2011 Triumph Tiger 800 First Ride

Powered by a fuel-injected Inline-Triple suspended in a steel-trellis chassis, the primary differences between the 800 and 800 XC are the suspension and wheels. The Tiger has a unique engine displacement for the British manufacturer, but it does borrow its 44mm throttle bodies from the Daytona 675 sportbike. The adventure machines' engine makes 799cc of usable horsepower and torque. Internal bore and stroke dimensions of 74 x 61.9mm don't change from either model.

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2011 Moto Guzzi Griso 8V SE Review

The 90-degree V-Twin mounted across the frame axis remains Moto Guzzi's signature engine configuration. Fire up the air/oil-cooled 1151cc Twin and the mirrors and bars shake with a rhythmic chugging at idle. Slam the throttle while the bike rests on its kickstand and the Guzzi does its best to flip over onto its right side. This effect comes via rotational force of the longitudinal crankshaft, a definite character-building trait endemic to the Guzzi.

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2012 Kymco MXU 450i First Ride

The new machine uses a single overhead cam engine with 443cc displacement. A Synerject throttle body feeds into the single cylinder for a claimed 33 horsepower. Like the rest of the Kymco lineup, the MXU feels slightly underpowered compared to some competitors, but the engine has no problem pushing the hefty machine.

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2012 Kawasaki KX450F Review

Take a look at the new KX450F and it appears leaner and meaner than before. Although the silhouette of the engine and chassis is essentially unchanged, the bodywork is new as is the profile of the gas tank, seat and muffler. The changes were made not only to give it a more contemporary look but to make it feel more compact.

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2011 Kawasaki Vulcan Vaquero Review

The Vaquero has character, from the pulse of its single-pin, long-stroke cranshaft V-Twin to the richness of its exhaust note, from its brawny front fairing to the attractive layout of the cockpit. The chrome trim and design of its taillight makes me think of my uncle's old Cadi.

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