Etc.

etc.

`06 HONDAS BREAK COVER

No blockbusters from Big Red? It would appear not. Lots to like, though. The CRF25OR is fitted with dual mufflers for more low end power, allowing Honda to change engine tune for better topend. Separate cans also provide balanced weight distribution for

lighter feel and improved maneuverability. Changes to the re-penned CBR1000RR are less obvious. Cylinder-head tweaks boost midand upper-rpm power, while bigger 330mm front brakes enhance stopping. On the Interceptor, VTEC now engages at 6400 rpm, down 600 rpm, for smoother twoto four-valve transitions.

Back in the lineup after a one-year hiatus, the versatile 599 now employs a 41mm inverted fork, along with a beefier triple-clamp and steering stem for improved handling. On the playbike front, the CRF1 50F gets electric starting, updated gearbox ratios and revised suspension settings. So, no new 600 repli-racer or big-bore cruiser? Apparently not this year.

CRF250

CBR1000RR

Interceptor

599

ZX650R

MEAN '06 GREEN!

Sportbike supremacy can be short-lived, so even after two years of domination the Kawasaki ZX-1 OR blasts into 2006 with a major redesign. Frame and

(longer) swingarm are new, while the thoroughly revised 998cc engine gets new fuel-injection for boosted midrange and should pump out in excess of the `05's 155 rear-wheel hp. And, at last!, a steering damper is standard-from Uhlins no less. Underseat exhausts complement the restyle. While this nasty Ninja should be enough, Kawi surprised everyone with a friendly Ninja sport-Twin, the ZX65OR. Based on the Euro-model ER-6n naked bike, this sporty, EFI, liquid-cooled parallel-Twin should produce at least 70 hp, and with fully adjustable suspension front and rear.. .watch out Suzuki SV650! In a move that must make Erik Buell feel vindicated, the 650R-like the new YZF-R6 and GSX-R600 and 750-features an under-engine silencer. No word on price or release dates for either model. So far, a very good q year for sportbiking with the promise .~ of more to V4 \ come!

ZX 10R