Kenny Sagawa, the editor-in-chief of Webike News, has taken the liberty of ranking all the new models released in 2020. The ranking is based on a comprehensive evaluation of topics, attention, technology, and social impact. By the way, pre-launch models are excluded. I'll start with the Japanese models.
No. 1 KAWASAKI ZX-25R
After 30 years, the inline-four super-quarter shines again
Kawasaki's first 4-cylinder 250cc supersport in 30 years. It features the latest technology from the ZX-10R, including aerodynamics, dimensions, and center of gravity, and is powered by a completely redesigned ultra-short stroke engine that delivers the strongest 45ps at 15,500rpm in its class.
It is equipped with a power mode and quick shifter, the 25R's high spec is beyond its class. On the track test ride, it was proven to be stable at a full bank at high speed, and the acceleration performance was over 180km/h according to the meter. The screaming sound at 17,000 rpm is another attraction of the 25R.
But what was most impressive was the spirit of Kawasaki's development team, who said, "If we don't do it, who will?
No. 2 HONDA CT125 Hunter Cub
A small all-rounder that can satisfy even the most serious off-road enthusiast.
The CT125 Hunter Cub has been revived under its traditional name as a "commuter that can be played with" that combines the ease and toughness of the Cub series with practical performance. The new model brings to the fore the appeal of the motorcycle as a leisure motorcycle that can be enjoyed in a wider range of applications, not only for everyday use such as riding on the street, but also for forest road touring and camping, taking advantage of its trekking performance and load capacity.
The frame and front and rear suspensions were specially designed for rough terrain riding. In fact, the motorcycle's lightweight chassis, solid suspension, and easy-to-handle engine power make it as easy to ride as any adventure model. It's a great little all-rounder that will satisfy even the most discerning of riders.
No. 3 SUZUKI GIXXER 250/SF250
MotoGP Title Winner! Air-oil cooling leading to that machine
The Gixxer 250 and its full-cowl version, the Gixxer 250SF, are the latest additions to Suzuki's lineup, and while the trend toward liquid-cooled high-performance motorcycles continues in this class, Suzuki has gone all out with an oil-cooled, single-cylinder engine.
The combination of the SOHC 4-valve and Suzuki's eighteenth-generation oil-cooling system is noteworthy in that it achieves more power and lighter weight than the company's liquid-cooled two-cylinder GSX250R while making the engine lighter and more compact. The newly developed air-oil cooling system also incorporates the latest technology developed for MotoGP machines.
The motorcycle is also very practical, with good maneuverability and low fuel consumption, and the price is less than 500,000 yen. The price of less than 500,000 yen is also highly appreciated. We also want to congratulate you on winning the MotoGP title in 2020.
No. 4 HONDA CBR1000RR-R FIREBLADE/SP
Breaks the self-restraint mode and declares himself the best on the circuit
Honda's premier supersport has undergone its first full change in a long time, and the increase in the number of R's to three shows that the company has put a lot of thought into this new model. The latest technology from the MotoGP machine "RC213V", such as the ducted wing, has been incorporated in the development of the new motorcycle to maximize its circuit performance.
The CBR's declaration of being the most powerful motorcycle on the track was a significant break from the street-oriented restraint of previous generations. On the other hand, there were some sacrifices made in terms of usability on public roads, such as the larger bodywork to support the 218ps of power and the race-oriented positioning.
It's a fact that it takes a lot of skill on the track to get the most out of the motorcycle's true performance.
No. 5 YAMAHA Tenere 700
An unlikely middle-of-the-road adventure machine with serious driving performance
The Ténéré 700, the first full-fledged mid-adventure model to be launched in Japan, is also one to watch this year in the popular ADV world where the over-liter class is dominating.
The combination of the MT-07-derived in-line two-cylinder engine, which is known for its flat-torque and easy handling, a lightweight and slim body that is comparable to a trail vehicle, and a full-fledged suspension with a long stroke makes it possible to ride like an enduro model by taking advantage of its outstanding riding performance.
The spartan nature of this vehicle, which doesn't rely on electronic controls such as power mode or traction control, is one of the reasons why it's so popular with professionals. On the other hand, because of its high driving performance, it tends to sacrifice footing, but the lowered version is also attractive.
See KAWASAKI Moto Index Page
See HONDA Moto Index Page
See SUZUKI Moto Index Page
See YAMAHA Moto Index Page
See Accessories for KAWASAKI ZX-25R
See Accessories for HONDA CT125 Hunter Cub
See Accessories for SUZUKI GIXXER 250
See Accessories for SUZUKI GIXXER 250 SF
See Accessories for HONDA CBR1000RR-R FIREBLADE
See Accessories for HONDA CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP RACE BASED MODEL
See Accessories for YAMAHA Tenere700
