Classic Motorcycle Mechanics  |  385 November 2019
What bikes for you, changed things entirely? I’m talking about bikes where – sometimes just the look – made your jaw drop. For many, the Suzuki Katana did just that. Here was a machine which was (after all) pretty much an existing model, but one which with some European design influence was elevated on to a completely different plane.
The balance between form over function is a fine line and it’s interesting to hear what our testers think when comparing both old and new Suzuki Katanas. I have to echo this. What is wrong with manufacturers of retro machines, that they have to cut down the rear end of a bike and give it naff all practicality? Both old and new Kats were and are variations on existing themes/machines and some of the best-loved bikes have also been
the same. Think of Honda’s 1997 Hornet, which was a spine-framed CBR600F, with a de-tuned motor, simplified suspension and brakes, but a machine which spawned a superb racing class and served as a basis for a wide range of wonderful specials and was much loved.
Conversely, Honda’s X-11 was based on the brilliant Blackbird, but wasn’t so admired! Now, I may not be popular when I say this, but, for me, one of the jaw-droppers of recent years was 2001’s Harley-Davidson VRSC V-Rod. I was on the launch in California. Expecting a normal air-cooled cruiser, when the covers were lifted we were gobsmacked! Great bikes linked with beautiful design often do that… and long may it continue!
meer lezen
minder lezen
Als abonnee ontvang je de volgende voordelen:
• Een korting op de verkoopprijs van je tijdschrift
• Je tijdschrift elke maand op je apparaat
• Je zult nooit een editie missen
• Je bent beschermd tegen prijsstijgingen die later in het jaar kunnen plaatsvinden
Je ontvangt 12 edities gedurende een periode van 1 jaar Classic Motorcycle Mechanics abonnement op een tijdschrift.
Opmerking: Digitale edities bevatten niet de omslagitems of supplementen die je zou vinden bij gedrukte exemplaren.
Artikelen in deze editie
Hieronder vindt u een selectie van artikelen in Classic Motorcycle Mechanics 385 November 2019.