09-16-2016, 11:02 PM
I think manufacturers are starting to build motorcycles more for everyday use and actually backing off the horse power thing. The new Triumphs for example all have fat healthy torque curves at the expense of high horsepower (new Street twin, new Bonneville and new Thruxton for example). The Honda NC700/750 series is another example as was the CTX1300. Then again, for the most part Honda has always favored ridability to pure outright horsepower. Tuned for torque is a popular term for neutered superbikes like the new FZ-10. Even though it has ungodly amounts of horsepower (compared to say the CB1100), it doesn't have nearly as much as the R-1 it's derived from, and is actually much easier to ride. That pleases some, dissapoints others who have been clamoring for true naked superbikes.
I find 100 hp and 75 ft lbs of torque and 550 pounds wet weight great motorcycle numbers for everyday riding, solo, two up, with luggage, without luggage, docile and sporty and the CB is close enough to that for me.
There will always be the "give me more horsepower" crowd, no matter how much horsepower they are given. Just as there will always be individuals who will do anything to the extreme... snow skiing, wave surfing, mountain climbing, Iron man competitions, flying in those flying squirrel suits, etc.. some just need the stimulation and challenge.
I find 100 hp and 75 ft lbs of torque and 550 pounds wet weight great motorcycle numbers for everyday riding, solo, two up, with luggage, without luggage, docile and sporty and the CB is close enough to that for me.
There will always be the "give me more horsepower" crowd, no matter how much horsepower they are given. Just as there will always be individuals who will do anything to the extreme... snow skiing, wave surfing, mountain climbing, Iron man competitions, flying in those flying squirrel suits, etc.. some just need the stimulation and challenge.