New LWT possibility? https://www.asphaltandrubber.com/bi...dy_G8cBw26BiMVnWlVcKnLvN8RG-dhyqQCzUjNP7809zQ
I hope they make this because I want this. This is exactly what so many have been wanting. Real sport version of a lightweight twin. No converting a standard/naked/learner (FZ,SV,ER) bike into a race bike.
Agreed! Might get me back to the LWT class! Says the motor is slated for a lineup of bikes and that they will come to the US.
And be "available" from 2 dealers in the US. And explode if driven faster than 80mph for longer than the 8 min needed to get to starbucks or some bike night at a chicken wing place. But damn it looks sweet...
From Ape's press release: "The concept offers a comfortable riding position, thanks to the large saddle located on the sleek tail fairing, footpegs that are not too high and a pair of semi-handlebars mounted on top of the upper steering yoke. The result is a saddle-handlebar-footpeg triangulation that is sporty yet comfortable, to the advantage of riding pleasure and comfort." Their concept doesn't seem to be offering any evidence of anything other than a pure sportbike, which leads me to believe that if they intend this to be a means to introduce riders to their sport lineup, there are going to be some SERIOUS concessions made to the design to get this thing priced appropriately.
Do you have any experience with Aprilia? I had a RSVR1000 that was tracked and raced for 7 or 8 years when I sold it two years ago and as far as I know it's still going strong on the original motor. I also currently have a 1998 RS250 that it still a little beast! The 450's and 550's had issues but lets face it those were hyper built racing machines and you have to expect maintenance on something like that. I think the sealant issue was the worst thing that ever happened to Aprilia. I know Broomes RSVR is still going strong and it has never been babied. Why would this be any different as its based upon a similar motor configuration that seems to be working?
I actually had to google just now to see if we had an Aprilia dealership in Portland anymore after Motocorsa went Ducati only. Turns out we do and I had no idea.
Up until now i have always thought it is very dumb to race a bike that belonged to the bank. Still do but for that bike I might give it a try.
The big bikes are fine. I think they are great. Their history with small displacement 4t isn't the best. Hence my snarky comments. I thankfully waited and then didn't buy a 550 for racing. Other less fortunate souls had to deal with motor life issues. I just kept blowing up built ex500s. Still cheaper than a 450 or 550
You shut your whore mouf'!!!! My SXV 450 lasted 33 miles before it needed a rebuild but it looked and sounded great for about an hour!