New models at Moto Expo

Visitors to the Brisbane Moto Expo this weekend are in for a real surprise with more debut models on display than at last year’s Sydney Motorcycle Show.

CHECK OUT THE PHOTOS ON PINTEREST

Yamaha took the covers off three new models … Well, two new models, plus the very welcome return of the retro SR400 which will come in kick-start only at $8999. It is joined in the big Yamaha marquee by the Tricity three-wheeler scooter that leans and the 1300cc custom-style Stryker cruiser available now. They also have a lot of customised bikes on the stand and the new FJR1300 and Super Tenere which now have optional models with electronic suspension adjustment.

BMW has four new models on display, including the Australian premiere of the sexy naked R nineT and the S 1000 R naked version of the sports bike. They also showed two new water-cooled Boxers, the R 1200 RT and R 1200 GS Adventure.

Harley-Davidson rushed out their three new models from the US less than two weeks after being announced. The Dyna Low Rider and Street Bob Special and Sportster SuperLow are part of the largest new-model release in Harley’s 110-plus-year history. Harley will also have stunt rider Matt Mingay on hand for three shows a day.

Victory took the wraps off the military-styled Gunner which hits the market soon at $19,990 ride away, while Polaris partners Indian Motorcycles will have all their Chief models – Classic, Vintage and Chieftain – available for test rides.

Triumph flew export sales manager Peter Huckin out from the UK to introduce the learner-legal Street Triple 660 and announce a 250cc single will be coming next year. The 660 was made specifically for Australia and took just six months to adapt from the 675cc engine. Triumph is also showing the new Thunderbird LT and Commander tourers.

Not to be outdone by the bikes, Vespa is showing the Primavera scooter which is styled on the beautiful 946 and replaces the popular LX series. It has a longer wheelbase, bigger rear wheel and more under seat storage.

Three-time World Superbike champion Troy Bayliss was keen to see the wraps come off the new Ducati Monster 1200. Ducati Australia boss, Warren Lee, says the new Diavel is also coming in a few months, plus a limited-edition 1199 Superleggera (Italian for light) which will have the highest power-to-weight ratio of any production bike in the world. Only 500 will be built.

Also producing more power and torque is the new three-cylinder Can-Am Spyder three-wheeler roadster. It’s not only more powerful, but also more economical with more than 30% more tank range.

The show also features dirt racing on Saturday might including Troy and Jason Crump, historic motorcycle display, Yamaha’s come-and-try for kids and a huge hall for accessories.