Let's start with the 650: The company has released a new series of 650 singles, all with dirt or supermotard-influenced styling. The variants are an enduro version, supermotard (pictured) and scrambler. Unusually for a single, all three machines offer anti-lock braking, which can be switched off by the user.
Here's what the company had to say about he techno side of things: All three of these new models are powered by the single-cylinder carried over from the former F 650 models now optimised for even better performance and minimum weight: In the G 650 X-models, the upgraded engine now develops maximum output of 39 kW (53 hp) at 7000 rpm, reaching maximum torque of 60 Nm (44 lb-ft) at 5250 rpm. And it almost goes without saying that the engine's well-known virtues such as superior liability, motoring refinement, economy, and environmental friendliness have been enhanced to an even higher standard than ever before.
Yet a further improvement is the even more dynamic surge of power from the four-valve engine now made possible by the lighter crankdrive and a number of other modifications. The rear wheel, finally, is driven on all three model variants by an O-ring chain.
The bridge-type tubular frame made of steel with cast aluminium side sections and the bolted-on aluminium rear frame, together with the rear-wheel swing arm made of cast light alloy and a number of other high-quality components, characterise the suspension and running gear concept of the entire G 650 X model series - all components are the same on all three models.
Intelligent lightweight technology with a high degree of overall integration of the various components allows particularly low weight for a motorcycle in this class between 156 and 160 kg (344 and 353 lb), depending on the model (DIN unladen weight with 90 per cent tank filling). Dry weight, in turn, is between 144 and 148 kg or 318 and 326 lb.
Various set-ups and versions of the upside-down telescopic fork as well as the rear suspension elements give each model its own special character and riding features. The Xchallenge, for example, comes with a particularly elaborate air damping system, while the Xcountry features a spring strut adjustable for length. The wheels and their dimensions, in turn, are tailored to each specific purpose, the Street Moto featuring 17-inch cast light-alloy rims, the Scrambler running on 19- and, respectively, 17-inch spoke wheels, and the Hard Enduro featuring 21- and, respectively, 18-inch spoke wheels highlighting the specific character of each machine.
The brake systems also differ from one model to another: The single-disc front-wheel brakes on the Xcountry and the Xchallenge each measure 300 millimetres or 11.81" in diameter and come in each case with a double-piston brake calliper, while the Xmoto features a four-piston brake calliper interacting with a brake disc measuring 320 millimetres or 12.60" in diameter.
Published : Thursday, 12 October 2006