Motorcycle Live, which returned after last year’s Covid cancellation, has fired us up for 2022 after seeing models in the metal for the first time.
We enjoyed checking out the new models from our three brands – Kawasaki, KTM and Suzuki – when we visited the show at Birmingham NEC.
Many of you will have gone to the show but, for those who did not, here are a few of our highlights we’re looking forward to welcoming to our showroom in 2022.
Kawasaki’s stand was particularly impressive with a throng of eager showgoers buzzing around a wide range of models.
Many visitors were attracted to the new modern classic in the shape of the retro Z650RS but it was also a chance to see the new ‘Yellow Ball’ Z900RS SE in the livery of the original 1972 Z1 Super Four model.
The limited run £12,499 flagship for the Z900RS range gains a golden finish for the spoked wheels and fully-adjustable forks with revised settings and an Öhlins rear shock with a remote preload adjuster. The fuel-injection system covers and sides of the radiator are finished in black.
Uprated brakes include new 300mm Brembo front discs and calipers.
Also popular was the facelifted Versys 650 adventure tourer with its new face and uprated electronics.
Suzuki also pulled out all the stops on its stand with the new GSX-S1000GT sports tourer the star attraction.
Priced at £11,599, the new GT is designed for speed and comfort, providing all-day riding ability to cover distances effortlessly.
Dave Willis said: “It’s an attractive motorbike which will give the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX a run for its money. The pannier fittings look simple to use and the colours are lovely.
“There’s nothing not to like about it.”
Suzuki was also showing off its sharpened, more powerful Katana with uprated electronics and smart new colours.
Classic racing machines, including Barry Sheene’s 1977 Suzuki RG500, also proved a hit.
KTM had the RC 8C on its stand but the global supply of just 100 is already sold out. At least we got to see what lucky owners of this ultra-lightweight, bespoke track weapon are getting for their £30,999!
The limited-run model sold out worldwide in four minutes 32 seconds with just a handful coming to the UK.
More accessible are the 1290 Super Duke GT and R Evo with semi-active suspension which adapts to road surface and rider inputs.
Dave said: “I’m very excited about the new ranges for next year and it was great to finally see them in the metal.