https://www.topspeed.com Naked bikes are stripped-down motorcycles that feature a powerful engine, minimalist design, and aggressive styling that turn heads. With no fairings to block the wind, riders feel every curve of the road and experience the thrill of riding in its purest form. Fri, 08 Sep 2023 19:00:27 GMT en-US hourly 60 The world of hyper nakeds has become a lot bigger since the early 2000s, with a growing base of customers that look forward to having their face pulled back with ridiculous acceleration, on their way to the shops. For example, with bikes like the Suzuki B-King, that was a naked version of the Hayabusa no less, the engine was however slightly detuned. This bike would be considered as a borderline hyper naked, but in truth it was actually a super naked. As the years went by, manufacturers started leaving the tuning of the engine mostly the same as the superbike counterpart, tuning them up in some cases to create some thrilling riding experiences.

]]> Fri, 08 Sep 2023 19:00:27 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/modern-hyper-naked-motorcycles-worth-the-hype/ It's that time of the year - the annual round of updates and upgrades to existing motorcycles are being released by manufacturers, and this time, it is KTM that has fresh new trims for you. It was not too long ago when the news of KTM revising their highly popular 390 Duke for 2024 broke. It was only a matter of time till its younger siblings were revised as well. The Austrian brand has now officially introduced the global 2024 version of its quarter-litre naked, the 250 Duke. The 2024 250 Duke has received extensive aesthetic and mechanical improvements, comparable to its larger 399cc sibling.

]]> Thu, 07 Sep 2023 11:00:27 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/2024-ktm-250-duke-everything-we-know-so-far/ After 91 years, the oldest-running production bike has achieved its maturity. The Bullet 350's 2023 model has aged well, yet still continues to wow you with its signature thump while maintaining its image as a no-nonsense, pure classic bike that has all the attributes that make it the supreme retro offering.

]]> Wed, 06 Sep 2023 11:00:28 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/2023-royal-enfield-bullet-everything-we-know-so-far/ Royal Enfield recently unveiled the Bullet 350, and we're in awe of this longest-running production motorcycle. It challenges the industry's conventions by not being the fastest, most high-tech, or nimble motorcycle, but it's perhaps the most back-to-basics motorcycle in production right now. Plus, it's got the style to wow anyone that looks upon it; expect a lot of "what year is it?" when riding this motorcycle.

]]> Tue, 05 Sep 2023 13:00:28 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/royal-enfield-bullet-things-we-love/ For a long time, there was a big hue and cry about the next-generation KTM Duke. Several spy shots and test mules were over the internet, but the smaller Dukes took a back seat ever since concrete rumors about the big 1290 Super Duke were revealed. That is until now - the 2024 KTM 390 Duke has formally broken cover for the global market!

]]> Tue, 05 Sep 2023 03:00:28 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/things-we-love-about-the-2024-ktm-390-duke/ Although possibly best known for its brilliant, faired sports bikes - 851, 888, 916, 1098, 1299, V4 Panigale - the real star bike in Ducati’s history has to be the Monster, launched in 1993. It was the success of this model - both then and now - that put Ducati on a financially sound footing and enabled it to develop all those other bikes. With a combination of accessibility, affordability, performance, handling and character, courtesy of a rumbling and powerful V-Twin engine, the Monster appealed to a huge percentage of the motorcycling world and continues to do so and, even though the recipe has changed significantly over the years, the fun-factor has remained the same.

]]> Sun, 03 Sep 2023 15:00:26 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/evolution-of-the-ducati-monster/ On paper, CFMoto and KTM are closely tied up. The former builds engines for the latter, while the latter handles distribution for the former in several countries. But that shouldn’t stop them from some healthy competition, right? Well, it seems the Chinese bikemaker certainly believes so. We say this because CFMoto has debuted the 450NK for international markets, just days after KTM took the wraps off the revamped 390 Duke. To jog your memory, the motorcycle first showed face in April (via type-approval documents), followed by an official reveal at the Beijing Motorcycle Show in May. Without further ado, let’s dive in.

]]> Sat, 02 Sep 2023 13:21:28 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/the-new-cfmoto-450nk-is-ready-to-lock-horns-with-the-2024-ktm-390-duke/ The KTM Duke 200 is a super lightweight, nimble naked motorcycle perfect for the city streets or twisty roads. The little brother of the renowned Duke family packs quite a punch for its size. This little roadster is an amalgamation of agility and power wrapped around in a compact, high-tech package. It's an entry-level bike, sure, but it doesn't mean it can't be super fun, especially considering how easy it is to handle and how forgiving it can be. From an engine management system (EMS) from Bosch, a wet multi-disc, mechanically actuated clutch to a wet sump lubrication system, this like devil from KTM has a lot to offer.

]]> Thu, 31 Aug 2023 17:00:29 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/things-that-make-the-ktm-200-duke-stand-out/ Think of adrenaline-pumping naked motorcycles, and the Super Duke moniker springs to mind. KTM kickstarted it in 2005 with the iconic 990 Super Duke and dialed things to eleven by whipping up the 1290 in 2014. Since then, the hyper naked has offered an unmatched blend of aggressive yet usable power, swift riding dynamics, and an angry aesthetic.

]]> Thu, 31 Aug 2023 13:15:26 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/upcoming-ktm-1390-super-duke-all-you-need-to-know/ Suzuki has been around for a long time in the conventional sense along with the others from the Big 4. With considerable racing success in MotoGP and WSBK along with other world racing series, they have come a long way, being one of, if not the most economically successful two-wheeled manufacturers in history.

]]> Wed, 30 Aug 2023 21:00:29 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/top-suzuki-gsx-models-of-all-time/ Naked motorcycles, or roadsters in BMW's Motorrad lingo, are often the time of bikes that lift their riders spirits by the sheer excitement and purity of the experience they can provide. They make the rider feel alive being completely exposed to the elements, while being able to reach mind-bending, tunnel vision induced speeds in mere seconds. That is, of course, if the motorcycle in question has the perfect naked bike trifecta covered, and that is power, beauty, and versatility. In comes the BMW S 1000 R, a 'roadster' that is much more than a naked version of BMW's superbike, the S 1000 RR.

]]> Wed, 30 Aug 2023 13:00:27 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/2024-bmw-s-1000-r-everything-we-know/ Husqvarna is a household name in most parts of the world, but it certainly doesn't get the same recognition in Asia. The Svartpilen 250 and its sibling Vitpilen 250 from the Swedish brand that were actually the first models made available throughout Asia.

]]> Mon, 28 Aug 2023 11:00:26 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/heres-why-the-husqvarna-svartpilen-250-should-come-to-the-us/ Motorcycles are dream machines for us, some more so than others. But some of us are crazy enough to dream about race bikes that we can’t have unless we become professional racers, buy off a MotoGP team, or wait for a brand to launch a super exclusive homologation model. Usually, these race-spec machines come with a massive price tag, aggressive sport bike ergonomics, and impracticality for the streets. They aren’t the best option for someone looking for a race bike for the streets.

]]> Mon, 28 Aug 2023 03:00:28 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/things-we-love-about-the-triumph-street-triple-moto2-edition/ While some might view motorcycles as a cool hobby to be indulged in when one is looking for a few extra thrills, there are huge swathes of the populace spread all over the globe that literally depend on motorcycles for their daily bread and butter. Far from treating their bikes as a cruising machine for recreation purposes, countless individuals commute on two-wheelers simply from point A to point B on a near-daily basis, going about their usual business as the days roll on.

]]> Sun, 27 Aug 2023 19:01:29 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/most-popular-motorcycles-for-city-commuters/ With nearly 16 million two-wheelers sold last year, India is the biggest motorcycle market in the world right now. And if you’re a bikemaker, these are some serious customers for you to lure in. That’s why all your favorite manufacturers–Harley-Davidson, BMW, Yamahai–make special efforts for the world’s most populous country.

]]> Sat, 26 Aug 2023 17:15:28 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/motorcycles-sold-in-india-thatll-make-americans-jealous/ Manufacturers love naked bikes, especially if they are simply a faired sports bike with the fairing removed and the riding position eased a little: it’s two models for the price of developing one! Among riders, naked bikes are extremely popular, not only for their easier ergonomics but also for their ‘purer’ riding experience, with no fairing or screen to get in the way.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 17:01:27 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/top-naked-bikes-on-the-market-in-2023/ The just-unveiled 2024 KTM 390 Duke is like a Taylor Swift concert. Flashy, filled with pizzaz, and borderline explicit to stand out from its contemporaries. Whereas the Yamaha MT-03 is like an Imagine Dragon concert. It’s relatively simple and less exciting, but still gets the basics right for an unforgettable experience.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 15:15:25 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/new-ktm-390-duke-vs-yamaha-mt-03-battle-of-the-sub-400cc-streetfighters/ The Triumph Speed 400 took us by storm when it was released. Everyone scrambled — pun intended — to get their hands on the bike, and the customers flocked to the dealerships to get their test rides. We were one of them. After waiting 15 minutes for the salesperson to approach us, take down our information for record-keeping (and marketing), and get a 10-second rundown of the controls, off we went on the Speed 400. Not good customer service, but can't blame them; the shop was crowded.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 21:00:27 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/heres-what-makes-the-triumph-speed-400-a-great-commuter/ In this day and age, Kawasaki enjoys a well-deserved legacy of manufacturing decent motorcycles that usually feature aggressive styling coupled with solid performance. With a roster of bikes spread across just about every imaginable category of motorcycles, from cruisers to hypernakeds, Kawasaki is a brand that people have taken to quite heartily, not just in the U.S. but in other parts of the world too.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 15:00:25 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/things-we-like-about-the-kawasaki-z650/ The Triumph Street Triple has been offering quart-pot thrills in a pint pot package since 2007. From the outset, it was hailed as one of the best-handling naked sports bikes, which wasn’t surprising as it was basically a naked version of the Daytona 675 sports model, released in 2006. In the intervening years, it has lost none of that purity of purpose and, somehow, the performance and handling has got even better. For 2024, the Speed Triple continues with the 765cc, inline three-cylinder engine, first introduced in 2018. Along with chassis and engine upgrades, there are also new electronics and a sharp new look, all of which make you wonder why you would need anything bigger!

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 15:00:25 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/things-we-like-about-the-triumph-street-triple-765-r/ When you go grocery shopping, do you pick items that are old or ones produced recently? Of course, the latter. After all, who in their right mind would want a dated product? The same approach sticks to entry-level motorcycles, too. If you’re a new rider, you would want an up-to-date, future-proof motorcycle you can enjoy to the fullest and have some bragging rights too.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 12:20:25 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/2024-ktm-390-duke-vs-triumph-speed-400-which-entry-level-naked-is-better/ We all started somewhere, most likely pounding an old crock round and round a field with friends. But, eventually, we have to go legal and get onto the road, which means a motorcycle that is as legal as we are, but which is usually out of necessity, a small-displacement bike.

]]> Tue, 22 Aug 2023 15:01:28 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/best-naked-bikes-for-beginners/ 2023 marks 10 years of the game-changing 390 Duke. And it’s safe to say there needs to be a big celebration of the feat. After all, the streetfighter has been the one to beat in the sub-400cc naked category all its life, with record sales worldwide.

]]> Tue, 22 Aug 2023 14:15:30 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/the-revamped-ktm-390-duke-is-out-and-its-a-raunchy-beast/ On the surface, a naked sports bike is a bit of a compromise: lots of performance but absolutely no wind protection which makes them tiring to ride for any length of time. However, because of that lack of bodywork, they are often described as a purer form of a sports motorcycle, with little to get in the way of the riding experience and always with a more relaxed riding position, which makes them so much more accessible.

]]> Mon, 21 Aug 2023 15:00:28 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/top-naked-sport-bikes-over-1000cc/ We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again–you can’t deny the Chinese motorcycle market is an interesting place. Yes, it’s full of mind-bending doppelgangers you’d find nowhere else in the world. But there’s also an actually likable assortment of two-wheelers that goes unnoticed while cringing over the copies.

]]> Sat, 19 Aug 2023 16:20:25 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/motorcycles-sold-in-china-thatll-make-americans-jealous/ Triumph, the well-known British bike maker, recently introduced two brand-new 400cc bikes, its first sub-600cc "entry-level" motorcycles in what might prove to be the brand's most important move in years. These motorcycles are, namely, the Speed 400 and the Scrambler 400X - both great expansions to Triumph's 'Modern Classics' family, which is exemplified by the incredibly appreciated Bonneville. While the Scrambler 400X takes design inspiration from the bigger Scrambler 900 and 1200, it has a real off-road lineage which Triumph claims dates back to its original Scramblers of the 1950s. Comparatively, the Speed 400 is a roadster and is dubbed as a junior alternative to the Speed Twin 900 and 1200.

]]> Sat, 19 Aug 2023 13:14:30 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/triumph-scrambler-400x-wait-to-buy/ By now, we all know the KTM 1290 Super Duke is ready for its next generation update. The new model has been spotted a few times, revealing many aesthetic upgrades over the outgoing model. But the latest leaked data suggests there’s more, and by more, we mean an upgraded powerhouse in there. The news comes right from the horse’s mouth, as Team Orange has listed a new ‘1390 Super Duke’ on its parts list website across the world.

]]> Fri, 18 Aug 2023 13:21:25 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/a-1400cc-ktm-super-duke-is-coming-to-take-on-the-ducati-streetfighter-v4/ The Z900 super naked from Japanese marque Kawasaki's stable is the epitome of how an ideal super naked should look, feel, and perform. Its head-turning Sugomi-inspired styling and confidence-evoking riding position are a sight to behold. In terms of performance, this aggressive beast will win the heart of any kawi lover who has tasted one of their "Z" bikes before. For 2024, it is even more attractive because the manufacturer has loaded it with some mind-blowing next-gen features. In this article, we present to you the 10 best things that we like about the 2024 Kawasaki Z900.

]]> Wed, 16 Aug 2023 15:00:26 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/things-we-like-about-the-2024-kawasaki-z900/ The Yamaha MT-07, announced in 2014, was released for the U.S. market in 2015 as the Yamaha FZ-07. Ever since it hit the streets, the bike started garnering favorable attention from both laymen riders and seasoned professionals as a great, affordable naked bike. In fact, the MT-07 has been the best-selling ‘Hyper Naked’ each successive year since its initial release – a fact that is proudly proclaimed by the company itself.

]]> Tue, 15 Aug 2023 03:00:25 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/heres-what-makes-the-mt-07-yamahas-top-selling-bike-globally/ Austrian motorcycle manufacturer KTM should need no introduction. They make some of the most exciting bikes around, always with a performance bias in mind. Their motorcycles are packed with precision engineering and the latest available tech when it comes to rider aids and performance optimization. That is the case even with small displacement motorcycles such as the KTM Duke 200 we're going to be talking about in this article.

]]> Mon, 14 Aug 2023 13:00:24 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/everything-we-know-about-the-ktm-duke-200/ The world of motorcycles is a lot like the world of food. One item that’s a staple in some places doesn’t guarantee popularity at the other end of the world. After all, for different cultural needs, you need different products. This is also the case with motorcycles.

]]> Sat, 12 Aug 2023 17:50:26 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/motorcycles-sold-in-japan-thatll-make-americans-jealous/ Manufacturers are constantly coming up with ever more fragmented motorcycle categories to delineate their products, as they constantly stir the development pot and form new models. If you thought that the naked sports bike category was getting a bit stale and, well, slow, then don’t worry as now there is the Hypernaked class which basically means more of everything - power, performance, electronics and not forgetting cost! There was a time when naked sports bikes were de-tuned superbikes but, now that the superbike is half the class it used to be, the hypernaked is taking over as king of the hill and there are some pretty impressive bikes out there.

]]> Thu, 10 Aug 2023 21:00:25 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/top-hypernaked-motorcycles-on-sale-in-2023/ Italy is home to some of the finest automobile companies. Ferrari, Lamborghini, Ducati, Aprilia, and MV Agusta all hail from here, and now, a new startup wants to join the elusive club as well. Called Italian Volt, the company wants to prove its mettle in the up-and-coming electric mobility segment, with its Lacama 2.0 electric motorcycle. It boasts superbike-like performance, electronics, and componentry–all of which make the LiveWire One look boring. Here are the details.

]]> Wed, 09 Aug 2023 17:15:24 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/this-italian-electric-motorcycle-makes-harley-davidson-evs-look-stale/ There are many motorcycles in the market, each one filling a specific niche or need. From the countless models to have rolled off the factory floor, a lot of riders have their own favorites, with some bikes gaining a bigger following than others. Features such as esthetics, power, speed, and the general experience on the bikes affect such opinions.

]]> Tue, 08 Aug 2023 17:01:27 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/motorcycles-we-all-love-to-hate/ In the 1960s, every motorcycle on the planet was ‘naked’, in that fairings were all but unknown. In the 1970s, fairings started to make an appearance on production bikes, BMW being the first company to fit one as standard. By the time the 1980s came around, fairings were all the rage, especially for sports bikes and this continued into the 90s. However, as the 2000s rolled around, the concept of the naked bike was really gaining traction once again, especially in the sports bike category, and there were some fantastic motorcycles on offer to give you real wind-in-the-teeth motorcycling.

]]> Mon, 07 Aug 2023 03:00:27 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/best-naked-bikes-of-the-2000s/ Typically, a naked motorcycle is a sport bike that doesn’t have its fairings. However, this is a simplified explanation. In reality, motorcycle manufacturers put a lot of research and design into creating the perfect naked motorcycle.

]]> Fri, 04 Aug 2023 21:01:24 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/best-naked-bikes/ The beginner rider is now spoiled for choice when they enter the showroom. What was once only limited to Kawasaki Ninja 250’s and anything in between, has grown to a much more extensive selection. It seems manufacturers have finally realized how lucrative the entry-level market can be.

]]> Wed, 02 Aug 2023 19:01:27 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/things-we-like-about-the-kawasaki-z400/ It all started in COVID-19-stricken 2020. As Harley-Davidson struggled to stay afloat, it announced its exit from the world’s largest two-wheeler market, India. Little did the American giant know, a game-changing float tube was coming to save the sunken ship. That too, from one of the world’s largest two-wheeler companies, Hero MotoCorp. The two companies announced a tie-up soon after. This gave Hero the reigns of Harley’s Indian operation (sales, service network, accessories, and spare parts), but also allowed the two giants to co-develop motorcycles for India.

]]> Wed, 02 Aug 2023 13:20:26 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/5-reasons-why-we-want-the-harley-davidson-x-440-and-5-why-we-dont/ When you click on the 'Naked' tab on KTM's website, the entire catalog of the Duke range pops up - right from the small 200 to the supermassive 1290. Among these namesakes is the prominent designation of 'Evo' in the current lineup. The current KTM 1290 Super Duke R Evo refers to the top trim with a semi-active suspension. However, the word evo stands for evolution, and it is safe to say the Austrian brand is doing justice to the abbreviation.

]]> Wed, 02 Aug 2023 11:01:26 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/check-out-the-2024-ktm-1290-super-duke-r/ Being motorcycle lovers, we believe that riding is the purest form of solace someone can have. A long ride with your favorite motorcycle is nothing less than therapy; it rejuvenates your soul and fills your heart with unfathomable happiness. But, it is often seen that we fail to recognize the goodness of some motorcycles, which are loaded with everything to put value for your money. This phenomenon is not limited to a single or a few manufacturers; rather, every manufacturer has at least one such presumed underdog in its stable. In this article, we present ten of the most underrated naked motorcycles that will never let you down if chosen over more popular models.

]]> Wed, 02 Aug 2023 03:00:26 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/most-underrated-naked-bikes/ Right now, the middleweight 600 to 800cc class is blooming, with interesting models from Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha, KTM, Triumph and Kawasaki. Not that long ago, if you’d suggested that a Chinese-manufactured motorcycle could be mentioned in the same breath as any of those would have brought incredulous looks from all concerned. But, the times they are a-changing and, thanks to a tie-in with KTM, CFMoto is making huge strides towards respectability in the international market. Its latest model, the 800NK, uses the engine from the KTM 790 range, but manages to have a flavor of its own, not to mention style and performance that will go a long way to changing the perception of Chinese-built motorcycles.

]]> Mon, 31 Jul 2023 17:01:29 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/reasons-why-we-cant-wait-to-ride-the-cfmoto-800nk/ Endurance racing has been an essential event for Suzuki. It’s the one place where the Gixxer maker has genuinely shown its mettle, taking home 17 titles in the Endurance World Championship and 18 wins at the Bol d’Or 24-hour race. This makes it one of the most successful names in long-haul racing, and the Japanese giant celebrates the feat often. Doing that yet again, the bikemaker has now whipped up a special SERT edition of its newest naked, the GSX-8S. This also marks the first special edition of the new naked bike since its debut in November 2022.

]]> Sat, 29 Jul 2023 16:46:26 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/heres-a-limited-edition-suzuki-gsx-8s-to-make-you-drool/ CFMoto launched their 650NK naked along with six other models in the American market in 2022, and as you can guess, there were lots of shrinking eyebrows because of its ‘made in China’ tag. However, as motorcycle enthusiasts, we don’t have any prejudice against the origin of motorcycle brands as long as they provide value for money. The 650 NK has all the guns to take on its direct rivals, such as the Yamaha MT-07, Suzuki SV650, and the Kawasaki Z650. Competitive pricing and brilliant quality standards give it an edge against the Japanese giants, which have dominated the American, European, and Asian motorcycle markets for a long time. In this article, we have discussed the ten best things that we love about 650 NK and that can make its rivals run for their money.

]]> Fri, 28 Jul 2023 17:00:26 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/things-we-like-about-the-cfmoto-650-nk/ It’s back! The beloved Ducati World Premiere, which has birthed several mind-boggling motorcycles in the past couple of years, is back for 2023. This time, the Italian giant has six new offerings set for unveil spread from July to November 2023 (ending around the time EICMA takes place). The first of these is out, and it celebrates one of Ducati’s most iconic bikes - Monster.

]]> Thu, 27 Jul 2023 18:16:26 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/the-new-ducati-monster-anniversario-is-a-baffling-beast-only-for-pure-enthusiasts/ If middleweight scrambler motorcycles intrigue you, you’d be happy to know this segment now has another offering in America. Called the Seiemmezzo, the motorcycle comes from Italian bikemaker Moto Morini and locks horns in the 600-700cc segment. More importantly, it’s priced quite competitively at under $8,000, especially for all that’s on offer. Let’s dive in.

]]> Mon, 24 Jul 2023 17:21:27 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/these-italian-scramblers-are-ready-to-take-america-by-storm/ No matter how content you may be in life, there comes a time when you have to get out of your comfort zone. And for Royal Enfield, this time came in 2018 when the Indian giant forayed out of its comfort zone (single-cylinder motorcycles) into the world of twin-cylinder offerings. It gave us two motorcycles in the process–the Interceptor and Continental GT 650.

]]> Sun, 23 Jul 2023 15:28:50 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/living-with-the-2023-re-continental-gt-650-the-ticket-to-your-cafe-racer-dreams/ If you’re in the market for an easy-going retro naked motorcycle, there’s a high chance you’ll end up looking at the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650. The motorcycle debuted in 2018 and soon became a worldwide sensation. It put the Indian giant on the global map in many ways, particularly by allowing it to compete with globally renowned companies in their own homes.

]]> Sat, 22 Jul 2023 13:46:25 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/10-things-we-like-about-the-royal-enfield-interceptor-650/ Back in April, we brought you the first-ever spy shots of the new Svartpilen and Vitpilen 901. These upcoming motorcycles boasted noteworthy updates over the 701 lineup, promising to be the Swedish bikemaker’s new flagship nakeds. And now, it seems the Husqvarna is also ready to refresh its entry-level naked bikes. The updated Svartpilen and Vitpilen 401 have been spied testing in an undisguised form which reveals some juicy details. To remind you, both small Huskies have remained unchanged since they first broke cover at the 2016 EICMA. Anyway, here’s everything we know about the new Silver and Black Arrow.

]]> Fri, 21 Jul 2023 17:15:23 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/spied-2024-husqvarna-svartpilen-401-in-undisguised-form/ The 2010s have been a decade where many changes happened, while some other things stayed more or less the same. Demographics changed as the baby boomers aged and started buying less big and expensive motorcycles, while the millennials started coming of age and were more interested in entry-level motorcycles. Harley-Davidson, the US's biggest motorcycle manufacturer saw the demand for its big displacement motorcycles drop and reacted with the introduction of smaller bikes that are more accessible to new riders, as well as by offering classes and training programs for newcomers.

]]> Thu, 20 Jul 2023 17:01:23 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/best-naked-bikes-of-the-2010s/ After four years of waiting, Harley-Davidson has finally birthed its second EV under the LiveWire nametag called the S2 Del Mar. Unlike its first EV, this one sets eyes on the affordable electric motorcycle segment and aims to be a trustworthy product in a startup-dominated space. But the Del Mar’s biggest rival is another American-made EV - the Zero S. It comes from the relatively new but reputed Zero Motorcycles, serving duty as the perfect entry into the EV world for ICE motorcycle owners. So which one of these should you take home if you have $15,000 to spare? Well, allow our comparison to help with that.

]]> Thu, 20 Jul 2023 13:15:22 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/can-the-new-livewire-s2-del-mar-beat-the-zero-s-electric-motorcycle/ Ever since it came out, the Kawasaki Z400 is one of the popular kids in the ruthless school called the entry-level naked segment. It has an excellent blend of unfiltered performance and a likable price-to-power ratio, backed by its proven reliability. But for 2024, there’s a new admission in the segment eyeing the Z’s throne, that too, from an unheard name in this segment - Triumph.

]]> Tue, 18 Jul 2023 13:21:20 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/why-waiting-for-the-triumph-speed-400-is-better-than-buying-a-kawasaki-z400-now/ It's a naked street-fighter! No, a brawler? A hooligan? An all-American flat tracker? The Indian FTR 1200 Sport, is all of that, intensified. The spicier variant of the FTR 1200 that originated as a road-legal offshoot of the flat-track race-winning FTR750, it has quickly established itself as an adrenaline-inducing contender in the naked bike segment in 2023. Captivating observers with its stunning design and wowing riders with its powerful but entirely controllable performance and advanced features, Indian continues to do justice to this diversion away from the cruisers that the company is typically known for.

]]> Tue, 18 Jul 2023 13:00:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/things-we-like-about-the-new-indian-ftr-1200-sport/ The world of motorcycles is no stranger to fierce competition, and when it comes to legendary brands, Harley-Davidson, Triumph, and Royal Enfield all stand tall with their respective legacies. These iconic manufacturers have a rich heritage and loyal fan bases, making their rivalry all the more intense.

]]> Tue, 18 Jul 2023 11:00:20 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/harley-davidson-and-triumph-lock-horns-with-royal-enfield/ Although known for their liter-superbikes, the Japanese also know a thing or two about building dedicated naked sports bikes. You could argue that they kicked the whole naked bike movement off with the Honda CB750 of 1969, although that would be to ignore the fact that all sports bikes were naked in those days. But, certainly, the CB750 was the first modern sports bike and the Japanese manufacturers have been perfecting the concept ever since, offering models in every capacity class, each one being incredibly refined while possessing performance and dynamics in equal measure, not to mention excellent build quality while still being eminently practical and user-friendly.

]]> Sun, 16 Jul 2023 13:01:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/best-japanese-naked-bikes-on-the-market/ It is a common belief that naked sports bikes were ‘invented’ when owners stripped their crashed, faired sports bikes of the damaged bodywork and chose to not replace it, leaving the bike as naked as the day the owner was born. Whatever the origin of the style, it is a form of motorcycle the manufacturers have really seized upon, not only because the cost of developing them has been largely absorbed by the development of the faired sports bike from which they are derived, giving them two bikes for the price of one, but also because they are much more accessible due to their more relaxed riding position, opening up the market to many more riders. The European manufacturers have been particularly good at this sort of motorcycle.

]]> Fri, 14 Jul 2023 19:00:22 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/best-european-naked-bikes-on-the-market/ The beginner motorcycle segment is brimming, but two of the most popular yet polar opposite options you will come across are the Honda CB300R and the KTM 390 Duke. The former is from the Japanese Megamind, Honda, and it promises to offer reliability, efficiency, and ease of ownership. On the other hand, the mini-Scalpe from KTM, the 390 Duke, promises fun and thrill in a small package.

]]> Thu, 13 Jul 2023 17:01:20 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/why-390-duke-is-better-than-c300r/ If you’re a Triumph Motorcycles fan, the last fortnight must’ve felt like a dream come true. First, the bikemaker entered the single-cylinder segment with the Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X. Then, it took the wraps off its 2024 motorcycle lineup, ripe with fancy colors across the board. And the dream is only getting better, as the British giant has now updated its much-popular modern classic range for the upcoming year. All your favorite motorcycles–Speed Twin, Scrambler, T120, Thruxton–have gone under the knife and now bear new attires. Here’s all you need to know.

]]> Thu, 13 Jul 2023 16:34:41 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/the-triumph-thruxton-rs-speed-twin-and-scrambler-just-got-more-vibrant-for-2024/ Luxury motorcycle maker MV Agusta might be based out of Italy, but the brand ranks America as its “most important market”. And to prove just that, the bikemaker has repeatedly produced special edition motorcycles exclusively for the United States. The 1973 750 S kickstarted the trend, while the ‘04 Brutale 750, ‘12 Brutale 1090RR, ‘17 Brutale 800 RR, and 2018 Dragster 800 RR took the legacy forward. Keeping the trend going, the Varese brand has now added the 2024 Dragster RR SCS America (long name, we know) to this elusive list. Here’s all you need to know about it.

]]> Wed, 12 Jul 2023 17:20:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/mv-agusta-whips-up-an-exquisite-dragster-rr-just-for-americans/ The scrambler motorcycle segment has witnessed a resurgence in recent years. There has also been a resurgence of retro-styled motorcycles as a whole. To add to that, the resurgence of small-displacement, lightweight motorcycles has created quite a stir. As a result, we are at a time when a premium British brand has locked horns with an entry-level Indian manufacturer.

]]> Wed, 12 Jul 2023 11:00:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/triumph-scrambler-400-x-vs-royal-enfield-scram-411/ Naked bikes are the perfect choice for riders who want a stylish, comfortable, powerful, yet affordable motorcycle. They offer a more upright riding position than sports bikes, making them ideal for everyday use. And with their powerful engines and agile handling, they can be a lot of fun on twisty hill climbs, in busy city traffic, and on fast highways. We know the question lurking in your mind right now. "Which one shall I buy, and what will be the price?"

]]> Tue, 11 Jul 2023 13:00:18 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/best-naked-bikes-under-15000/ It is no secret that the world is shifting to smaller, lighter and simpler motorcycles. The same shift has been observed in almost all categories, right from cruisers to adventure bikes. This time, it is the birth of an entry-level scrambler that we are witnessing. Scramblers have gained significant popularity in recent years, and who else to introduce a new sub-400cc scram but Triumph themselves, best known for their iconic Scrambler line?

]]> Tue, 11 Jul 2023 11:00:18 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/heres-why-the-new-triumph-scrambler-400-x-is-a-solid-entry-level-scram-alternative/ Track days are what many bikers live for. Tracks allow you to experience your bike to its full potential without being at the mercy of your local municipality and distracted drivers. But ask any biker what's the best bike for the track, and you will hear answers like the Aprilia RSV4, Ducati Panigale V4, or Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R. These supersport bikes are undoubtedly capable of what they do, but can you imagine riding them daily?

]]> Sat, 08 Jul 2023 19:01:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/street-bikes-that-double-up-as-excellent-track-bikes/ Dive into the history of your favorite motorcycle companies, and you’ll find one thing in common - single-cylinder engines. Yes, all leading names–Harley-Davidson, Indian, Suzuki, Honda–produced singles at first which, in a way, make these the holy grail of modern-day powerhouses.

]]> Fri, 07 Jul 2023 16:20:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/why-single-cylinder-motorcycles-deserve-your-attention-even-in-these-modern-times/ Just a few days ago, Triumph made a comeback in the small-capacity segment with a couple of single-cylinder motorcycles called the Speed 400 and Scrambler 400. While we’re still getting to grips with that, the bikemaker has now unveiled part of its 2024 lineup. All your favorite Triumphs–Tiger Sport 660, Trident 660, Speed Triple 1200, Rocket 3–have received a refresh, albeit without major upgrades. For good reason too, since there’s no need to fix what ain’t broken. Not to mention, most of these motorcycles are just a couple of years old.

]]> Thu, 06 Jul 2023 13:21:18 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/the-new-triumph-tiger-sport-660-trident-660-and-speed-triple-1200-look-dazzling/ The middleweight class of naked bikes is teeming with variety. Naked bikes are like a jack of all trades that can both bring you excitement and take you to your work and back without a problem. They are fast like sport bikes, but have a relatively relaxed upright riding position, and they are as functional as your typical commuter. However, even if two bikes fall into the same category, they still their own way to bring fun to your daily rides. Some naked bikes aim for total performance, while others keep to their true nature of being a versatile machine.

]]> Thu, 06 Jul 2023 13:00:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/reasons-why-we-love-the-ktm-890-duke-r-and-reasons-why-the-kawasaki-z900-is-better/ Did you know Royal Enfield sold over 800,000 motorcycles in 2022? That’s nearly 300,000 more than the combined motorcycle sales in the United States of America, which goes to show the Indian giant’s dominance in the small-capacity category. The highest contribution comes from RE’s globally popular 350cc range, as they offer unrivaled value for money, charming looks, and a no-frills experience.

]]> Wed, 05 Jul 2023 13:20:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/why-the-new-harley-davidson-x440-is-a-gut-punch-to-royal-enfield-classic-350/ Known as the Land of The Rising Sun, Japan is a country that excels at many things. Technology, video games, food, its culture of respect and politeness, and of course, its auto industry. With regard to motorcycling, it's hard to think of any other country that has so many renowned and established brands such as Japan. Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, and Suzuki all come from there and are among the best motorcycling manufacturers in the world. And when it comes to motorcycling, there's nothing quite like taking on the elements while riding on top of a powerful naked bike.

]]> Wed, 05 Jul 2023 13:01:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/fastest-japanese-naked-bikes/ When two motorcycles debut less than a week apart, in the same displacement range, and for similar audiences, they’ll obviously become rivals. That’s the case with the new Harley-Davidson X440 and the Triumph Speed 400. Both belong to the sub-500cc, single-cylinder segment and flaunt neo-retro designs, which inevitably means they’re gunning for the same group of new riders. If that’s not all, these are both joint products between international and Indian brands. So now that you know why these are rivals, it's time to find out which one of these you should eye. And here's a comparison between the 2023 X440 and Speed 400 to deduce just that.

]]> Tue, 04 Jul 2023 13:15:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/2023-harley-davidson-x440-vs-triumph-speed-400-the-new-roadster-battle/ Entry-level motorcycles make up a sizeable chunk of the motorcycle market share. And after years of being absent, Harley-Davidson has gone all guns blazing into it this year. We’ve already seen two H-D-badged sub-500cc motorcycles, and now, the MoCo has gone full DJ Khaled to reveal another one - the much-anticipated X 440.

]]> Mon, 03 Jul 2023 18:11:10 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/the-harley-davidson-x-440-is-here-to-rival-royal-enfield/ Honda has ‘CBR’, Suzuki has ‘GSX’, Yamaha has ‘YZF’ but are any of them as iconic and recognizable as Kawasaki’s simple ‘Z’ prefix in its model names? The first ‘Z’ - the Z1 - appeared in 1972 as a response to Honda’s seminal CB750 and continues to this day with the likes of the Z900, in both modern and ‘modern classic’ form. In between, there have been many Kawasaki ‘Z’ models, some game changers, some better than others, some best forgotten but all of them have been distinctive Kawasaki designs. Here, we pick our ten best Kawasaki ‘Z’ models.

]]> Mon, 03 Jul 2023 15:00:18 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/top-kawasaki-z-models/ While we check our savings account and prepare cash for one of the bikes, you can take a closer look at the two new Triumph motorcycles, which embody the brand's design and dynamic philosophy while bringing in Bajaj's expertise in mass production.

]]> Wed, 28 Jun 2023 17:00:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/things-you-need-to-know-about-triumphs-speed-and-scrambler-x/ Ever since its inception in 1983, Triumph Motorcycles has kept a focus on the over-600cc segment, with its USP being the unique inline-three engine configuration. For 2024, however, the bikemaker is set to rewrite history and bombard the beginner motorcycle segment. Its weapon of choice is the new Triumph Speed 400–a neo-retro roadster built alongside India’s Bajaj Auto.

]]> Wed, 28 Jun 2023 15:16:23 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/2024-triumph-speed-400-vs-honda-cb300r-can-britain-beat-japan/ There’s been plenty of speculation about Triumph’s upcoming small-capacity motorcycles, and the rumors only got stronger when the roadsters were spotted doing rounds. But now, Britain’s largest bikemaker has finally cleared the air and taken the wraps off its new entry-level lineup - the Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 - for MY2024. These mark the bikemaker’s first foray into the sub-500cc lineup in over 30 years, with the aim to exploit the much-popular entry-level segment in all leading markets. Also, to jog your memory, they’re a result of the Bajaj-Triumph tie-up–a deal inked back in 2020 but delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Anyway, let’s dive in.

]]> Tue, 27 Jun 2023 19:15:20 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/the-new-triumph-speed-400-is-here-to-disrupt-the-entry-level-segment/ When Husqvarna first introduced the Vitpilen 701 during EICMA 2015, it caught the attention of everyone in the motorcycling world. The years before the release of the Vitpilen 701 hadn't been the best for Husqvarna, having been bought and sold by BMW to Pierer Industrie, who subsequently transferred the brand to KTM.

]]> Thu, 22 Jun 2023 14:01:18 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/things-we-love-about-the-husqvarna-vitpilen-701-things-we-dont/ The original Husqvarna company made muskets (old-fashioned guns) in a new factory outside the village of Husqvarna in Sweden in 1689. By the late 1870s, Husqvarna turned to making shotguns and hunting rifles. They also started manufacturing stoves, sewing machines, and bicycles. The first Husqvarna motorcycle was built in 1903, making Husqvarna one of the oldest motorcycle companies in continuous production. In 2013, Pierer Industrie bought Husqvarna from BMW. At the time, Stefan Pierer was the CEO of Cross Industries, which was the major shareholder in KTM, as well as being the CEO of KTM. Pierer soon sold Husqvarna to the KTM Group.

]]> Wed, 21 Jun 2023 17:00:20 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/motorcycles/guides/10-things-you-need-to-know-about-the-husqvarna-svartpilen-401/ The 790 Duke was the original Scalpel from KTM that sliced through the competition, gathering obsessive popularity across the globe. Unfortunately, KTM had to pull the plug on this terrific motorcycle due to tightening emission norms, which made way for the Euro-5-compliant 890 Duke. Having sold over 29,000 units worldwide, the 790 Duke’s reign ended in 2020 — or did it?

]]> Wed, 21 Jun 2023 15:00:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/why-we-are-glad-to-have-the-ktm-790-duke-back/ A few months ago, Harley-Davidson shocked the world with an entry-level motorcycle, built alongside Indian giant Hero MotoCorp. It made headlines in no time and left us H-D fans fascinated by the upcoming thumper. Now, as we edge closer to its full reveal, The Motor Company’s Indian division has released some real-world images of the X 440 (yes, that’s the official name). They show the baby H-D powering through the mountains, which is enough to make you fall in love with it.

]]> Fri, 16 Jun 2023 15:50:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/new-images-of-the-harley-davidson-x-440-will-make-you-fall-in-love/ America and V-twin Motorcycles is an age-old love story. All the leading bikemakers–Harley-Davidson, Indian, Buell–make them, and you can say the same for custom shops such as Roland Sands Designs. As a result, we’ve been treated to exemplar V-twin two-wheelers of all shapes, sizes, and segments, with the list only getting longer as you read this. The latest entry comes from Audette Motorcycles based out of Canton, Connecticut. Though nowhere near as experienced as the mentioned brands, the bikemaker has whipped up an ‘American superbike’ called Audette Velos. It’s loaded to the teeth with quality components, all topped by a gigantic over-2,000cc V-twin at heart. Here’s all you need to know about it.

]]> Tue, 13 Jun 2023 13:21:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/this-2000cc-american-made-motorcycle-can-beat-harley-davidson-at-its-own-game/ Stripped to bare essentials, naked motorcycles exude raw power, aggression, and everyday usability. But don’t let the minimalist exterior fool you; naked bikes balance form and function unlike anything else. Yet, buying yourself an expensive European supernaked like the Ducati Monster SP may not always be the best option — such bikes are simply too much for the road and can burn a hole in your wallet faster than you can say “desmo-service.”

]]> Mon, 12 Jun 2023 13:00:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/best-naked-bikes-under-ten-grand/ Despite the sports bike market contracting in recent years, in favor of the likes of adventure bikes, manufacturers still regard them as the flagships of their ranges and spend a lot of money developing them into ever more technological, dynamic and powerful motorcycles. Not only are they getting too fast for the long and healthy life of those who ride them, they are also without compromise and inaccessible for the average rider. Taking the bodywork off a sports bike to create a naked bike might not dial down the insanity by much, but the riding position is at least relaxed significantly, making them a more practical proposition for everyday riding.

]]> Fri, 09 Jun 2023 13:00:18 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/sport-bikes-we-love-and-naked-bikes-wed-rather-buy/ Summers are the definition of a love-hate relationship for motorcyclists. The clear weather and grippy tarmac make it the perfect opportunity to spend some quality time with your motorcycle, while the harsh sunlight, hot winds, and sweat all contribute to the ‘hate’ side of things. The latter becomes even more prevalent around July/August when the mercury rises to upwards of 100 degrees Fahrenheit. So do you just give in, switch on the AC, sit at home, and let your motorcycle wish for a new owner? Well, of course not. Instead, all you need to do is follow the pivotal tips mentioned below which will help you prepare for these problems and enjoy every mile on your beast.

]]> Mon, 05 Jun 2023 17:20:18 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/pivotal-tips-for-easy-breezy-riding-in-the-summers/ Determining the most beautiful motorcycle ever might make politics look like a cakewalk. Since time immemorial, enthusiasts and diehards have fought tooth and nail to crown the most beautiful motorcycle in the world. For categories such as power and speed, it’s easy to determine who the king of the hill is, but when it comes to beauty, how exactly do we measure it?

]]> Mon, 05 Jun 2023 01:00:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/how-the-indian-ftr-1200-shows-off-insane-engineering-through-its-design/ While there are some radically fast hyper-naked motorcycles, they are not the most friendly motorcycles. They are intimidating, expensive, and often too much for the road. But middleweight naked bikes under 800cc are often the smartest choice for most bikers.

]]> Sun, 04 Jun 2023 11:00:18 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/fastest-middle-weight-naked-bikes-under/ Naked motorcycles boast aggressive and eye-catching looks, and more often than not, corresponding performance. Looking at the top of the food chain, you get affordable machines that match the speed and acceleration of most supercars. That incredible value for the money comes paired with the sheer excitement of being completely exposed to the elements while having to tame that growling rocket between the rider’s legs. An experience truly unique to motorcycling and well worth it.

]]> Sat, 03 Jun 2023 19:00:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/best-naked-bikes-under-20000/ The world of naked bikes may not be as vast as the sport segment, but there is a lot of talent out there, and most, if not all are direct derivatives of their sportbike counterparts. This means they offer almost identical levels of performance while adding so much more comfort than traditional sportbikes.

]]> Fri, 02 Jun 2023 19:00:17 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/fastest-naked-bikes-under-20000/ Did you know the Norton Motorcycle Company first opened its door 125 years ago in 1898? Well, now you do, and in these years, the British bikemaker has had a rollercoaster of a run. There’ve been highs like massive racing success and lows such as borderline bankruptcy and tax fraud. But one thing that’s remained constant all this while is the company’s ability to whip up luxurious motorcycles with plenty of performance.

]]> Thu, 01 Jun 2023 15:16:18 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/heres-why-the-new-norton-v4cr-is-the-ultimate-cafe-racer/ Here at TopSpeed, the age-old debate of whether sport bikes or naked bikes are better is a constant topic that keeps cropping up with the release of each new bike in either camp. While for the majority of us, picking naked bikes are a no-brainer, there are a few hardcore sport bike enthusiasts who seem to find renewed yet wayward purpose with the release of every new sport bike in the market.

]]> Thu, 01 Jun 2023 15:00:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/why-wed-pick-a-naked-bike-over-a-sport-bike-any-day/ Let us dive into the world of naked middleweight bikes and discuss the Suzuki GSX-8S and the Yamaha MT-09, two of the hottest models available. The new Suzuki GSX-8S is powerful and stunning, while the 2022 version of the Yamaha MT-09 retains its perch at the top bracket of its segment and keeps winning new fans.

]]> Thu, 01 Jun 2023 13:01:18 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/reasons-why-we-love-the-new-suzuki-gsx-8s-and-reasons-why-we-think-the-yamaha-mt-09-is-still-better/ The most affordable Harley-Davidson has broken cover! The motorcycle is badged as X440 and perhaps signifies Harley-Davidson’s intention of diversifying its portfolio. It is the byproduct of Harley-Davidson’s strategic partnership with Indian giant Hero MotoCorp. We have the first few indications of what the motorcycle looks like in the flesh as it was unveiled in India, where it will be produced in Hero's manufacturing facilities. Here’s all that we know about it and there are a few reasons that the folks in the US should be excited as well, that is if it makes its way here.

]]> Wed, 31 May 2023 15:01:23 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/everything-we-know-about-the-harley-davidson-x440-so-far/ A few days ago, we told you about Honda’s plan to launch its new scrambler, the CL500, in the American market. And now, the Japanese bikemaker has done just that. Renamed to the 2023 SCL500 here, the motorcycle is the fifth entry in Honda’s likable 500cc roster, with eyes set on the much-popular entry-level scrambler segment. It also pays homage to the company’s ‘CL’ moniker that birthed iconic offerings like the CL72 and CL77 in the 1960s. Plus, American Honda has also replaced the ADV150 with its new ADV160 scooter and jazzed up the Grom for 2024. Let’s check them out one by one.

]]> Wed, 31 May 2023 13:20:18 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/the-honda-cl500-sets-foot-in-america-for-all-your-scrambler-needs/ Suzuki doesn’t exactly roll new models out of the factory every year, so the arrival of a genuinely new model is cause for some celebration.

]]> Mon, 29 May 2023 14:01:18 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/things-we-like-about-the-new-suzuki-gsx-8s/ Naked bikes first appeared during the 1980s with crashed motorbikes being stripped of their fairings and re-branded as “streetfighters” by the riders who continued to use them. As the niche’s popularity grew, manufacturers soon took notice, eventually resulting in the world’s first proper factory naked bike, the 1993 Ducati Monster. Orders rushed in for the Ducati Monster, an affordable Ducati for everyday riding, and other companies soon followed suit with their own naked bike offerings, aiming to capitalize on a fresh market. Over the past decades, naked bikes have become more powerful and more agile, enough to rival even supersport bikes in terms of performance. These days, brands work towards balancing power, speed, and rider comfort in the naked bike offerings, and these are the 10 fastest naked bikes under 1000cc.

]]> Sun, 28 May 2023 19:30:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/fastest-naked-bikes-under-1000cc/ Let’s face it, everyone loves surprises. And this stands even more true when the surprise comes from a brand like Harley-Davidson. Yes, we’re talking about the MoCo’s startling teaser of the HD4XX entry-level roadster that set the internet ablaze in early April. The thumper marks the first product under the Hero MotoCorp-Harley tie-up and intends to shake up the world’s biggest market for two-wheelers, India. In the latest news, the two parties have now given us a full look at the upcoming roadster, along with its name and official launch date. Here it is in all its glory.

]]> Fri, 26 May 2023 12:51:18 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/check-out-harley-davidsons-newest-entry-level-roadster-in-all-its-glory/ Time was when the old mantra, ‘bigger is better’, held sway in motorcycling: any motorcycle in the 500-800cc class was seen to be rather mundane and functional rather than setting the pulses racing. However, current thinking is turning in favour of smaller-displacement models, which are seen to have much more relevant real world benefits over 200 horsepower monsters.

]]> Thu, 25 May 2023 13:30:20 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/top-middleweight-naked-motorcycles/ The Monster is easily the most popular Ducati naked on the company’s bandwagon. It’s been on constant sale for 30 years now, with impressive sales numbers all around the world ever since its inception. To keep the trend going next year, the Italian bikemaker has updated the Monster for 2024. It’s not an overhaul, though, as the bikemaker has taken the same “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” approach, similar to the recently revealed 2024 SuperSport 950.

]]> Wed, 24 May 2023 15:30:20 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/ducati-adds-some-twinkle-to-its-monstrous-naked/ More comfortable, more versatile, more practical and easier to handle - if you are looking for these qualities in a motorcycle, then naked bikes are the best choice for you. Identifiable by no fairing, broad shoulder and slimmer tail, naked bikes are devoid of any extra clothing - which means the engine, frame, and other components are exposed to the elements. Naked motorcycles are typically more comfortable and practical than other types of motorcycles, such as sport bikes or cruisers. Yet they are also often less expensive too.

]]> Wed, 24 May 2023 14:30:19 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/fastest-naked-bikes/ The CFMoto 450SR broke cover as a concept at the 2021 EICMA, followed by an official launch in 2022. And barely one year later, the Chinese bikemaker has now updated it for 2023 with more features, improved underpinnings, and a refreshed aesthetic. Not just that, CFMoto has also expanded its entry-level platform with the new-for-2023 450NK–a streetfighter based on the 450SR. Both motorcycles have broken cover at the 2023 Beijing Motorcycle Show (consider it a Chinese equivalent of EICMA) and confirm many details we had reported when the motorcycles were leaked via type-approval documents. Let's dive in.

]]> Wed, 24 May 2023 13:00:18 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-updated-cfmoto-450sr-and-new-450-nk-streetfighter/ Think beginner naked motorcycles and the KTM 390 Duke is bound to come up. It’s dominated the category for nearly a decade now, with its punchy powerhouse and impressive riding dynamics. Heck, Team Orange even made it reliable in recent years. However, the little Duke’s dominance days might be over soon, thanks to an aggressive attack from China’s Voge. For 2023, the Asian bikemaker has introduced the new Voge 525R, which has its eyes on the entry-level naked segment. More importantly, it one-ups the KTM in a few aspects.

]]> Sun, 21 May 2023 17:55:18 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/meet-the-voge-525r-a-ktm-390-duke-killer-from-china/ Unless you’re living under a rock, you’d know KTM acquired a 25.1 percent stake in MV Agusta late last year. The deal was put in place to help the Italian exotic bikemaker leverage KTM’s large supply chain network and, in turn, hand over its purchasing power to the Austrian party. Barely seven months later, Team Orange has now stated its intention for a bigger piece in the Varese brand’s pie. It wants the full reins with a majority stake, as revealed by Hubert Trunkenpolz (an executive board member of Pierer Mobility Group) in an interview with DueRuote. Not just that, the top honcho also had some interesting comments on MV Agusta’s current scenario.

]]> Sat, 20 May 2023 17:01:20 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/heres-why-ktm-wants-the-full-reins-of-the-mv-agusta-chariot/ Back in the day, there was no such thing as hyper nakeds. There were superbikes and a few hyperbikes like the Kawasaki ZX-14R or the Suzuki Hayabusa. But with technological advancements and every biker’s need for speed, manufacturers started coming up with naked bikes over 1000cc. It sounds crazy at first, but these super nakeds serve a purpose. They are manic, fast, aggressive, and often intimidating, but they represent something that other bikes do not — they push the envelope in all aspects: touring, cornering, top speed, performance, technology, and much more. But there are a few hyper nakeds that stand out further. These are the top ten fastest naked bikes over 1000cc.

]]> Sat, 20 May 2023 12:30:20 GMT https://www.topspeed.com/fastest-hyper-naked-bikes/