2001 Motorcycle Model Preview

More Exciting Than The Hallebop Comet on a Moonless Night

It's always exciting in September when the dealers return from their respective manufacturer conventions and get revved up about upcoming models. Prior to that time, you only had an idea of what might arrive in the US by visiting European and Japanese websites that showed their new models for the coming year.

But the cat's out of the bag now, and both Sound RIDER! readers and local dealers are thrilled about what's around the corner. From the new Goldwings (right) to customs from H-D and a new sport bike from Yamaha, there's something for everyone to drool over.

BMW F650GS

"We've already sold 13, have deposits for 9 more and we should have a demonstrator in a day or so" comments Keith Thye at Ridewest BMW in Seattle. This is the one BMW dual-sport enthusiasts have been waiting for because it marks the second generation for the F650, which came to market a few years back, and like all new bikes, had it's share of initial problems including a horrendous appetite for chains and sprockets. That's behind us now and the still attainable seat height for all of under 6 feet is intact so now's the time for fun.

Ducati Monster 600

If 750 cc's was too much action for you, Ducati brings to market a downsized Monster to meet the needs of newer, less experienced riders. Looking just like it's bigger brothers, this machine will appeal to many new riders ready to step up to buying their first bike. The flat black paint is very impressive.

Harley-Davidson Customs

HD unleashes two new customs hot on the heels of the success of the Screamin' Eagle program. The two models, a Dyna Wide Glide and a Road Glide will be much sought after in their limited editions.  "Worthy of lusty worship," is how H-D sums it up.

Honda Goldwing

This 1800 cc is the largest Goldwing Honda has ever brought to market.  Restyled to compete with BMW's K1200LT, this bike is the ticket in 2001 for ultimate touring luxury. But you better put your money down now.  "Even if Marysville Ohio worked 24/7 there's no way Honda could bring enough of these to market to meet demand," comments Jack Milne at I-90 motorsports in Issaquah. Most dealers are being allocated a handful for the year, and like the RC51 craze of last year, it will probably take 2-3 years for Honda to reach a supply/demand ratio that is satisfactory to dealers and potential customers.

Kawasaki ZXR1200

After a successful two years of selling, the ZXR1100 Kawasaki threw together a few changes to sweeten the deal on an already great bike. This time around they've upped the displacement and horsepower, and lightened the engine weight by three pounds. The gearing was changed in the top speed, increasing the power band as a result of the larger motor. "It's one of the most exciting bikes Kawasaki is bringing to market this year," comments Bellevue Kawasaki's Mike Correll.

Kawasaki Eliminator 125

Kawasaki brings a new cruiser to market to increase its market share in the new rider and women rider categories. "We're picking up a half a dozen of them to provide to MSF for use in their training program," comments Rick Nakagaki, sales manager for RMC Motorsports in Renton. 

Suzuki Bandit 1200

This standard just keeps getting bigger.

Yamaha FZ1

How about a new Yamaha 1000 cc machine to go along with the already top selling line of sport bikes! "Plopping down a deposit for this tomorrow," says a reader.

SR!/Fall 2001