The 2025 YZF-R3 gets new bodywork inspired by Yamaha’s MotoGP bikes.
The Yamaha YZF-R3 has been the stepping stone into the brand’s R World of sportbikes since its debut in 2015, and it gets revamped for 2025 with new bodywork and instrumentation to enhance its style and practicality.
2025 Yamaha YZF-R3
The 2025 YZF-R3 is freshened with styling inspired by Yamaha’s YZR-M1 MotoGP racebike, including a bolder front fairing, sleek new side panels, and a sporty new tailsection with signature R-series tail wing. Slimmer side covers match a narrower seat to provide a shorter reach to the ground, and seat height is 30.7 inches. The YZF-R3’s relaxed riding position is otherwise unchanged.
Don’t let the R3’s racy bodywork lead you to believe it’s uncomfortable, as it has a fairly open riding position.
New LED lighting adds a more contemporary appearance, including a new single projector-type headlight flanked by four-element position lights, along with a new LED taillight and turnsignals.
Full LED lighting is now part of the 2025 YZF-R3 package.
Instrumentation is provided by new LCD gauges that now display connected smartphone information along with vehicle data. Yamaha Motorcycle Connect connectivity works in conjunction with the free Y-Connect app to connect the bike to your phone, which includes the ability to view incoming calls and message notifications. A new USB-A socket is located next to the display to provide power for phone charging or heated gear.
The 2025 YZF-R3 comes equipped with a new LCD instrument panel with smartphone connectivity. A USB charging port sits to the left of the gauges.
No changes were announced for the R3’s revvy 320cc parallel-Twin engine, but the fuel-injected powerplant now includes Yamaha’s Assist & Slipper clutch that reduces clutch effort and eases engine-braking forces for smoother downshifts from the 6-speed transmission. The R3 should still be able to achieve 110 mph.
The YZF-R3’s relatively low seat height of 30.7 inches makes it accessible for most any rider.
For suspension, the R3 retains its 37mm inverted KYB fork and KYB monoshock, the latter adjustable for spring preload. Brakes are also unchanged from the 298mm front-disc setup with a 2-piston caliper and 220mm disc with 1-piston caliper on the rear wheel, both backed up by standard ABS. Curb weight is listed at 373 lb, and Yamaha claims the bike sips fuel at a 56-mpg rate.
The YZF-R3’s sleek new styling looks at home on a racetrack.
Added up, Yamaha says the 2025 YZF-R3 puts “an emphasis on lightweight, nimble handling, and real-world practicality” and is “a perfect choice for everyone from first-time riders to experienced track day enthusiasts.”
The 2025 Yamaha YZF-R3’s sporty package has a retail price of $5,499 in your choice of Team Yamaha Blue, Matte Stealth Black, or Lunar White/Nebular Blue. It will arrive at dealers in December.
The updated YZF-R3 will be available in three colorways, including this Lunar White/Nebular Blue.
2025 Yamaha YZF-R7
Yamaha’s popular YZF-R7 returns unchanged for 2025, still powered by the 689cc CP2 parallel-Twin engine with a 270-degree crankshaft for a V-Twin-like exhaust note. The fully faired sportbike will hit dealers in December priced at $9,199 in your choice of Team Yamaha Blue or Matte Raven Black.
The YZF-R7 returns for 2025 and will be available in Matte Raven Black or Team Yamaha Blue.
The 2025 Yamaha YZF-R9 is a new supersport powered by the 890cc CP3 Triple also found in the MT-09 and MT-09 SP.
The supersport class has been withering over recent years, but the new Yamaha YZF-R9 is sure to draw the attention of sportbike enthusiasts. It’s built around Yamaha’s 3-cylinder CP3 powerplant and includes several high-end features and eye-popping good looks for a reasonable $12,499.
The new YZF-R9 is equipped with top-shelf brakes, an aluminum frame and swingarm, and wings!
The new R9 doesn’t fit into existing boxes, slotting in between the relatively tame YZF-R7 and the intimidating YZF-R1, which has prices starting at $18,999 and reaching $27,699 for the R1M version.
The sleek new R9 will inspire racetrack fantasies, paddock stand not included.
The Yamaha YZF-R9 is intended to redefine the supersport class by combining track-capable performance with streetbike accessibility. Yamaha says it provides “true supersport levels of performance in an accessible package that enhances the capability and confidence of riders across a spectrum of skill levels.”
Perhaps the most appealing aspect of the R9 is its snazzy appearance, especially its nose. Squinty LED headlights are framed by MotoGP-inspired winglets designed to offer a measure of downforce at speed. Also deserving praise is the tidy tailsection that is unencumbered by a bulky muffler – silencing takes place in a canister under the engine. Yamaha says the sleek design is the most aerodynamic it’s ever produced.
Strap on your gloves for what should be a thrilling ride on Yamaha’s new YZF-R9.
At the heart of the R9 is Yamaha’s character-rich 890cc crossplane Triple, which has garnered fans for its exuberant performance in the MT-09 and MT-09 SP. Performance specs are mostly unchanged, but the R9 receives a unique ECU tune and taller final-drive gearing, with two fewer teeth on the rear sprocket. Expect the same factory-rated 117 hp at 10,000 rpm and 69 lb-ft at 7,000 rpm. It’s backed up by a slip/assist clutch and an auto-blipping quickshifter.
The 2025 Yamaha YZF-R9 is available in three colorways, including Matte Raven Black.
The R9’s chassis diverges from the MT-09 with a new Deltabox aluminum frame that’s said to be the lightest ever offered on a Yamaha Supersport model. The frame has larger open steering head sections and was tuned to deliver supple and predictable feel at lower speeds along with a balance of rigidity for sharp handling at racetrack velocities.
Inspire your MotoGP dreams aboard a 2025 Yamaha YZF-R9.
The suspension of the R9 is also unique, swapping the MT-09’s 41mm fork for a beefier 43mm unit. The fully adjustable fork is from KYB, like the MT, but it’s a more advanced SDF design that includes high- and low-speed compression-damping adjustments. KYB also supplies the monoshock, which includes a handy hydraulic preload adjuster along with compression/rebound adjustability.
With a steep rake angle of 22.6 degrees and 3.7 inches of trail, along with a 55.9-inch wheelbase and 50/50 weight distribution, the R9 should offer agile handling qualities that will perform well on the street and on the racetrack.
The YZF-R9 looks like it would be fun untangling twisty roads.
We’re glad to see Yamaha didn’t scrimp on the R9’s brakes. The fronts are the same Brembo Stylema monoblock brake calipers and 320mm dual discs as fitted to the MT-09 SP, with a Brembo radial-pump master cylinder squeezing fluid through flex-free stainless-steel brake lines to offer high levels of power and feel.
The Yamaha YZF-R9 includes a suite of advanced rider aids informed by a 6-axis IMU for traction control (nine levels), wheelie control (three levels), slide control (three modes), adjustable engine braking, and cornering ABS with the option to switch off rear ABS for track riding. The electronics also include four power modes, launch control, and Yamaha Variable Speed Limiter (YVSL).
A 5-inch TFT instrument panel monitors a full suite of electronics.
Ergonomically, the R9 puts a rider in a forward lean to offer improved front-end feedback, but it’s not as aggressive as the R1’s committed riding position. The seat is placed at 32.7 inches, and the footpegs are fairly high to preserve adequate lean angles. If your wrists get weary before depleting the 3.7-gallon fuel tank, just click on the bike’s standard cruise control to give ’em a rest. The curb weight is 430 lb.
The R9 is blessed with full LED lighting and turnsignals integrated within the mirrors.
Electronic settings are conveyed on Yamaha’s latest-generation full-color 5-inch TFT display, which can be customized to display four street themes or a dedicated track display. Settings are navigated via Yamaha’s latest handlebar switches, with their shapes and feel refined to provide intuitive operation. Smartphone compatibility is offered via Yamaha’s free Y-Connect app, and navigation is available through the free Garmin StreetCross app.
The blue triangle outlines the R9’s ergonomics in comparison with the more upright R7 (green) and the more committed R1 (red).
After seeing the stunning Yamaha YZF-R9 in person with its next-generation R-series styling and learning it retails for less than $13K, we think Yamaha might be reinvigorating the sportbike market. The R9 will begin arriving at dealers in March 2025, giving you time to save up $12,499 for your choice of Matte Raven Black, Team Yamaha Blue, or Intensity White/Redline.
For an extra $1,700 over the base MT-09, the MT-09 SP has better suspension and brakes plus a few other goodies. (Photos by Dave Schelske)
Several months ago, we reviewed the updated 2024 Yamaha MT-09. We’ve heaped praise on the MT-09 since its 2014 debut because it delivers a thrilling ride and loads of character in a lightweight, affordable package. But the MT-09 SP is even better.
Over the course of four model generations, the MT-09 has steadily improved – more power, better handing, new features. An SP version of the MT-09 has been available since the third-gen update of the platform in 2021. (SP is short for “Sports Production,” and there’s also an SP version of the MT-10). What makes the SP better than the standard model? Mostly suspension and brakes, plus a few extras.
The MT-09 SP has a two-tone Liquid Metal / Raven color scheme inspired by the YZF-R1M.
When manufacturers need to hit a certain price point, suspension and brakes are where they’re likely to make compromises – and therefore save money. The standard MT-09 has KYB suspension, with a fully adjustable 41mm inverted fork and a single shock with adjustable spring preload and rebound, and the 2024 model has firmer damping.
Eureka! Gold fork tubes with black DLC-coated sliders and a gold Öhlins shock reservoir.
The MT-09 SP’s fork is also made by KYB, but it’s a higher-spec unit with DLC-coated tubes for less friction and full adjustability that includes high- and low-speed compression damping. Out back, the SP has a fully adjustable Öhlins shock with a remote reservoir and a remote preload adjuster.
The fully adjustable Öhlins shock has a remote reservoir and a remote preload adjuster.
The standard MT-09’s front brakes are dual Advics 4-piston radial calipers with 298mm floating discs, while the MT-09 SP is equipped with top-of-the-line Brembo Stylema monoblock 4-piston radial calipers. This year, both models were upgraded to a Brembo radial front master cylinder, which provides more precise feel at the lever.
The 2024 Yamaha MT-09 SP has Brembo Stylema monoblock radial front calipers and Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S23 tires.
Other updates for 2024 on both the MT-09 and MT-09 SP are mostly enhancements. Both have a larger 5-inch TFT instrument panel with four display modes (the SP gets a dedicated Track theme) and new self-cancelling turnsignals. Using the Yamaha Y-Connect app, a smartphone can be paired with the bike, allowing use of the free Garmin StreetCross app for on-screen turn-by-turn navigation.
The 2024 Yamaha MT-09 SP has a larger 5-inch TFT instrument panel with multiple display themes, and the SP also gets a special Track theme.
The Yamaha Ride Control electronics suite has been simplified into three standard ride modes (Sport, Street, and Rain) as well as two customizable modes that allow rider aids to be tailored to the rider’s preferences via the TFT menu or Y-Connect app. The MT-09 SP gets special YRC settings, including four exclusive Track ride modes and the ability to turn rear ABS off. The handlebar switches have been redesigned to be more user-friendly and intuitive, and cruise control is now standard.
Riding the up-spec MT-09 SP on the freshly paved Tail of the Dragon was a blast!
The transmission now shifts more smoothly, and Yamaha’s third-generation quickshifter works at lower speeds and in more situations. Intake sound has been improved with revisions to the intake ducts and airbox and by adding Acoustic Amplifier Grilles atop the fuel tank that project intake sound directly into the cockpit.
The 2024 Yamaha MT-09 SP has a polished and clear-coated cast-aluminum swingarm.
The bikes have new styling, a reshaped and repositioned fuel tank, sportier ergonomics, and more steering lock. The net result of these changes is more weight on the front tire and a smaller turning radius, making the bike easier to maneuver.
There’s a new two-piece saddle with rider’s seat that’s flatter and narrower near the front for an easier reach the ground. The footpegs have been moved rearward and are adjustable. The clutch lever is now adjustable, the mirrors are larger, and the cast brake pedal was replaced with a stronger forged unit.
Sportier ergonomics and revised frame improve the rider’s sense of control and the bike’s maneuverability.
Yamaha also made changes to the MT-09/SP’s chassis. The CP3 Triple is a stressed member of the chassis, and the right- and left-side engine brackets were made thicker for more rigidity in the middle. The headstock bracket, on the other hand, was changed to allow more compliance up front.
The 2024 MT-09 SP is the first bike in Yamaha’s Hyper Naked lineup to get the wireless Smart Key system.
Other upgrades exclusive to the MT-09 SP include Yamaha’s wireless Smart Key System; a polished and clear-coated finish on the cast-aluminum swingarm; and a two-tone Liquid Metal / Raven color scheme inspired by the YZF-R1M.
Yamaha hosted a press launch for the MT-09 SP in western North Carolina at Fontana Village, which is located on the famous Moonshiner 28 (NC Route 28). Our test route included the perfectly radiused curves of the Cherohala Skyway and the infamous Tail of the Dragon, which had been resurfaced a few weeks earlier and was billiard-table smooth.
In the background is Fontana Dam. We tested the MT-09 SP on some of the best roads in eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina.
Those tight, technical Appalachian backroads are where the MT-09 SP really struts its stuff. Its spinforged aluminum wheels are shod with the latest Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S23 tires, which provide incredible grip and fluid transitions through turns. The bike’s revised ergonomics, weight distribution, and chassis provide a better sense of control and boost rider confidence.
The standard MT-09’s suspension works well, but the SP’s suspension is noticeably better. It gives riders a greater degree of control over settings, and the up-spec KYB fork and Öhlins shock provide a more refined and precise feel. Likewise, the Brembo Stylema calipers offer greater sensitivity at the lever and more immediate response than the standard model’s binders.
The MT-09 SP’s higher-spec chassis bits level up the bike’s responsiveness and agility, as well as its style and functionality.
The MT-09 SP commands a $1,700 premium over the base model. Is it worth it? If you are an exacting rider or a self-proclaimed gear geek, then the top-of-the-line SP has the best components and the most sophisticated tech with some added flair thrown in. You can’t go wrong either way.
The Triumph Trident 660 has been updated for 2025, and the new model features more rider-focused technology, upgraded suspension, and new colors and graphics.
Triumph has already announced a few models for 2025, including the Triumph Rocket 3 Storm and the Triumph Speed Twin 1200 / RS. The company continues to add to its lineup of updated models with the Trident 660.
2025 Triumph Trident 660 in Cobalt Blue
Triumph says the Trident 660 is one of its most popular models, bringing in more riders who are new to the brand than any other. It claims to sell about 10,000 Trident 660s each year, and about 11% of sales are to women riders. The goal of this update was to make the model even more rider-friendly while maintaining its attainable price point.
Most of the changes to the Trident 660 include the addition of rider aids and technology. New for the 2025 model are optimized cornering ABS and traction control, the Triumph Shift Assist up/down quickshifter, and cruise control. Also included is a new Sport ride mode to join the existing Road and Rain modes.
The Trident 660’s Showa 41mm inverted fork has been upgraded with SFF-BP damping. This upgrade makes spring rate slightly lower and damping slightly higher. Smaller upgrades include a new forged aluminum top yoke and a forged aluminum brake pedal.
2025 Triumph Trident 660 in Diablo Red
Most everything else remains the same, including the bike’s liquid-cooled 660cc 3-cylinder engine that makes a claimed 80 hp at 10,250 rpm and 47 lb-ft of torque at 6,250 rpm. It has a seat height of 31.7 inches, a wheelbase of 55.2 inches, a wet weight of 419 lb, and a fuel capacity of 3.7 gallons.
In addition to the Showa front suspension, the bike includes a Showa monoshock with preload adjustment. Slowing things down are Nissin brake components, including two 310mm front discs with 2-piston calipers and a 255mm rear disc with a 1-piston caliper. The bike also includes a TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity to display navigation, calls, and music.
2025 Triumph Trident 660 in Jet Black
The 2025 Triumph Trident 660 will be available in three new colorways: Cosmic Yellow, Cobalt Blue, and Diablo Red. A Jet Black color scheme will also be available. Bikes will begin arriving in dealerships in November with an MSRP of $8,595.
The Alpinestars Tech-Air 3 Leather Airbag Vest offers a stylish and low-profile way to keep yourself protected while enjoying the ride.
No rider who has crashed on the street ever wished they weren’t wearing protective gear. Beyond an armored riding jacket or suit, a higher level of protection is available from airbags worn over your torso that reduce the force of impacts.
Early airbag technology employed a tether system that required riders to detach or deactivate them when willingly dismounting a motorcycle. The latest systems are autonomous, using gyroscopic sensors that automatically inflate the airbag when a crash is sensed.
Alpinestars Tech-Air 3 Airbag Vest in leather
Alpinestars is the leader in airbag technology, first supplying it to MotoGP racers in 2009. While roadracers have been benefiting from airbag protection, few street riders want to crawl inside a neck-to-ankle leather suit for their trip to Starbucks or work. The Tech-Air 3 vest provides airbag protection for street riders and can be worn over or under a jacket.
The Tech-Air 3 ($599.95) was introduced in 2023. New to the lineup are the Tech-Air 3 Leather ($749.95) tested here and the Tech-Air 3 Canvas ($649.95), which are aimed at V-Twin riders but are suitable for all street riders. The Leather/Canvas vests have different features from the original version, like an internal flap holder to allow the chest airbag to be tucked out of sight when walking around, a hidden LED panel on the chest, dual zippered pockets, and a zippered back slot that enables adding patches.
Once slipped on, the 4-lb vest is barely noticeable, and stretch panels allow for a good range of motion. The inflation canister resides in the lower left corner of the vest and can be felt if riding on a seat with a hump behind it. A perforated back panel and internal air channels promote ventilation.
The Tech-Air 3 boasts a simple and intuitive design. There are no complex installation procedures – simply slip it on, attach the magnetic closure on the chest air bladder to activate, and zip it up. The battery is claimed to provide 40 hours of use.
The vest features Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to pair it with the Alpinestars app on your smartphone. The app provides information on battery level, system status, and service history, and it allows downloading updates to ensure the vest is running the latest software.
A key element of the Tech-Air 3 Leather is that it doesn’t stand out as safety apparel. It’s nicely styled and has a clean appearance, so I prefer to wear it over my riding jackets. Keep in mind that wearing it under a jacket takes up space, so you’ll need a little wiggle room inside your jacket to allow for inflation.
The Alpinestars Tech-Air 3 Airbag Vest also comes in a canvas option.
Luckily, I’ve yet to get into a situation that would warrant an airbag deployment, but with three gyroscopes and three accelerometers keeping tabs, plus Alpinestars’ extensive experience with this technology, I’m confident the bags would inflate when needed – apparently in only 50 milliseconds. If the airbag deploys, you’ll need to send it to Alpinestars to get the air canister replaced for a $100 fee.
Midway into a crash won’t be a good time to wonder if you should be wearing a Tech-Air 3.
There are numerous styles of motorcycle jacket that provide high-quality form and function, but when I’m on my Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail, I usually lean toward something leather and with a little style. When it came time to review the Highway 21 Motordrome leather motorcycle jacket, I tried to think of something that needs to be improved on, but after wearing it for over a year, I’ve only come up satisfied.
The Highway 21 Motordrome motorcycle jacket features a retro racer style and options for adjusting temperature comfort.
The Motordrome is a premium leather jacket that Highway 21 says has a heavy stylistic nod to boardtrack racing, hence the name. It features a snap club collar, diamond-stitched accents, and an off-white strip across the chest and forearms. If that’s not your style, maybe that’s the one thing not to like about this jacket, but I really like the retro racer look.
From a safety standpoint, the Motordrome has pockets for back and elbow armor compatible with Fly Barricade CE armor (sold separately) and plenty of storage space, including five pockets on the jacket itself (two chest, two handwarmers, and a concealed carry) and an extra Napoleon chest pocket on the removable thermal liner.
The chest pockets double as front ventilation, which is complemented by dual-zippered wrist vents so you can keep the wrist cuffs tight and still get airflow up the sleeves. Air flows out of two sizable zippered exhaust vents on the back.
Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad
Between the thermal liner and the ventilation, you have plenty of options to moderate your riding temperature comfort level. Highway 21 says this motorcycle jacket is good for “Cold” and “Mild” but not “Hot.” That seems about right, but I might add another level in between the latter two and say it works for “Warm.”
Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad
On the lower end of the spectrum, I’ve regularly worn the jacket with the liner and just a T-shirt in the upper 30s and been comfortable (and I’ve gone down in the 20s with an extra long-sleeve layer). Or I can take out the liner, open all the vents, and throw on a tank top, and I’m comfortable into the 80s.
Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad
I have the armor with my jacket, and between the reassurance I get from that and the leather, along with the considerable temperature range, the Motordrome is my go-to motorcycle jacket for most of my cruising months.
And it not only looks good on my Harley, it also looks good on the BMW R 18 Roctane (shown in photos) and other cruisers and retro-style bikes I’ve tested.
The Highway 21 Motordrome jacket comes in distressed Antique Black in men’s sizes S-4XL for $289.95.
I have a few pairs of riding boots that I enjoy for most day-to-day riding, but when I signed up for a class with California Superbike School, I realized none of them were appropriate for a true trackday. I needed something with more protection suited for track-style riding, but I also wanted something comfortable enough to wear on street rides. From the description on the website, it seemed the Alpinestars Stella SMX-6 V2 Motorcycle Boots would fit the ticket.
The Stella SMX-6 V2 motorcycle boots includes many protective features that provide support, utility, and peace of mind. The upper is constructed from advanced microfiber for abrasion resistance. When pulling the boots out of the box, I first noticed their TPU-injected shin guards. Occasionally my foot will slip off one of the pegs and knock my shins into controls, so I was happy to have protection in this key area.
Photo by EtechPhoto.com.
The boots also include shift pads to protect the material from frequent contact with the shifter, and the sliders on the outside toe are replaceable. The toe box provides added protection, as does the hard heel cup. There’s also a TPU lateral ankle brace for structural integrity and to prevent the ankle from moving in ways it’s not supposed to. There’s an additional ankle protector inside as well.
With all these protective pieces, it’s easy to imagine these boots might not provide enough flexibility for comfort. Alpinestars solves that problem with accordion-style flex zones above the heel and across the front. This construction allows the boots to flex enough to offer freedom of movement while the protective parts restrict the rider’s feet and ankles from moving too far or in unnatural directions.
The boots feature a wide and long hook-and-loop fastener with a zipper under the hook-and-loop flap for getting into and out of them. Given how wide the boots open, it’s quick and easy to slide my feet in or out when needed. While wearing them, the hook-and-loop has held up well and never feels as if it’s pulling apart while riding or walking.
Photo by EtechPhoto.com.
The boots also feature a compound rubber sole with an intricate tread pattern that kept my feet from slipping off the pegs while riding and provided enough grip to easily walk around in the paddock.
These Stella SMX-6 V2 boots were a great choice for someone like me who wants top-level protection and capability for occasional trackdays while maintaining comfort and flexibility for street rides. After my day at California Superbike School, I was plenty tired and sore, but my feet and ankles were not. As I’d hoped when ordering them, the boots are comfortable enough to make for good street-riding footwear as well.
The Alpinestars Stella SMX-6 V2 Boots are available in women’s sizes 36-43. Alpinestars also offers a vented version and men’s SMX-6 V2 boots.
In 2024, the Husqvarna Svartpilen 801 was introduced as an updated model from the Svartpilen 701, equipped with a larger-displacement twin-cylinder engine, a new frame, new tech, and other changes. For 2025, the Husqvarna Vitpilen 801 joins the ranks with many of those same updates, replacing the Vitpilen 701.
2025 Husqvarna Vitpilen 801
Husqvarna’s Svartpilen (“black arrow” in Swedish) and Vitpilen (“white arrow”) are visually distinct from other motorcycles with their unique styling. The Svartpilen features a street-tracker look, while the Vitpilen has a cafe-racer vibe. Also in Husqvarna’s lineup are the Svartpilen 401 and Vitpilen 401.
2025 Husqvarna Vitpilen 801
The new Vitpilen 801, like the Svartpilen 801, replaces the previous 693cc single-cylinder engine with the liquid-cooled 799cc LC8c parallel-Twin also found in the KTM 790 Duke and 790 Adventure. The engine has a bore and stroke of 88 x 65.7mm and a compression ratio of 12.5:1. It’s paired with a Power Assist Slipper Clutch and a 6-speed gearbox.
Also new for both models is a tubular chromium-molybdenum steel frame that uses the engine as a stressed member. The cast-aluminum subframe is a unique element with integrated air intakes under the seat, and it houses the airbox inside. The bikes also feature an aluminum swingarm. The Vitpilen 801 has a seat height of 32.2 inches, a fuel tank that holds 3.7 gallons, and a weight of 397 lb without fuel.
2025 Husqvarna Vitpilen 801
Up front is a WP Apex 43mm inverted fork with 5.5 inches of travel and adjustable compression and rebound damping through five-step click dials on top of the fork tubes. In the rear is a WP Apex shock that offers 5.9 inches of travel and is adjustable for rebound and preload.
Both bikes come with Husqvarna-branded J.Juan brake components, including a pair of radial 4-piston front calipers biting 300mm floating discs and a floating 2-piston rear caliper paired with a 240mm disc. Bosch 9.3MP cornering ABS with Supermoto mode is a standard feature. They ride on 17-inch cast alloy wheels, and the Vitpilen 801 comes with Michelin Road 6 tires in 120/70-17 front and 180/55-17 rear sizes. (The Svartpilen’s tires are Pirelli MT60 RS.)
2025 Husqvarna Vitpilen 801
The Vitpilen 801’s styling features the unique sharp edges and flat parts shared among the Vitpilen and Svartpilen bikes. A key design feature is the “split” that divides the main frame and subframe. The bodywork is slim and tightly wrapped around the engine and frame. Another stand-out design feature is the round LED headlight with a floating positioning light ring around it. All lighting is LED.
2025 Husqvarna Vitpilen 801
Replacing the previous round LCD display is a new 5-inch TFT display. This instrumentation allows connection to a smartphone via the Ride Husqvarna Motorcycle app, through which riders can access turn-by-turn navigation, view phone calls, and listen to music.
2025 Husqvarna Vitpilen 801
These bikes also include many rider aids and electronics. In addition to cornering ABS, they also come with cornering traction control with two additional sensors that monitor wheel slip and tilt angle. Ride modes include Street, Sport, and Rain, and a customizable Dynamic mode is available as an option.
2025 Husqvarna Vitpilen 801
Other optional features include the Easy Shift up/down quickshifter (standard on Svartpilen 801), Motor Slip Regulation, and cruise control.
The 2025 Husqvarna Vitpilen 801 will be available starting in December 2024. Pricing has not yet been announced. Visit the Husqvarna Motorcycles website for more info.
We review the Rev’It Xena 4 Two-Piece Motorcycle Suit during the Level I class of California Superbike School. Photo by EtechPhoto.com.
Before heading to the track for the Level I class of California Superbike School, I began my search for a leather motorcycle suit. The school would have some for rent, but my small size meant it was unlikely the school would have a suit to fit me. Instead, I found Rev’It’s Xena 4 Ladies suits.
Rev’It’s Xena 4 Ladies line includes a one-piece suit, a one-piece Pro option, a two-piece jacket-and-pants combo, and a two-piece Pro set. Although the one-piece versions were tempting, I wanted to be able to wear the jacket separately on street rides, so I opted for a two-piece. I also chose the standard version rather than the Pro, which includes a back hump and other features, again hoping it would be a more versatile choice for both track and street riding. To complete the ensemble, I also ordered some Xena 4 Ladies gloves.
The Rev’It Xena 4 Ladies suits are the fourth generation of the Xena line, meaning Rev’It has had plenty of time and experience to perfect them. The outer shell of the jacket is made of synthetic leather, cowhide, and neoprene, and it includes a detachable thermal body warmer and a soft collar for comfort. The pants are made of synthetic leather, cowhide, nubuck, and polyester, with a mesh lining. The jacket and pants zip together at the waist.
These two pieces come with CE Level 2 armor for the spine, elbows, shoulders, knees, and hips. For additional safety, both pieces include safety seams in areas of increased impact risk so that the shell holds together even if the outer seam is torn. Ventilation comes in the form of perforations at the upper arms, upper back, upper front, and upper legs.
Photo by EtechPhoto.com.
The gloves are made of 3D air mesh, cowhide, goatskin leather, and neoprene, with a moisture-wicking tri-fleece liner. They include added stretch panels in key areas to allow hands to move freely and reach for levers. They also feature a double-cuff closure and an adjustment strap at the wrist.
During my track day at California Superbike School, I noticed I wasn’t thinking about my gear at all while on track – a sign that everything was working just as it should. The two-piece suit provided enough stretch to allow movement without being baggy or cumbersome, and the perforations provided enough ventilation to keep me comfortable while riding. The gloves’ two-way closures and adjustment straps allowed for easy removal and kept the gloves secure on my hands while riding.
For my needs, the Xena 4 Ladies jacket and pants combo with gloves was the right choice. This gear has provided me with a solid set of leathers for track days along with the versatility to use the gear on street rides.
The Rev’It Xena 4 Ladies jacket ($499.99) and pants ($469.99) are available in sizes 34-36, with the pants having lengths in short, standard, or long. The gloves are available in sizes XXS-XL for $199.99.
2025 Kawasaki W230 ABS in Metallic Ocean Blue / Ebony
Kawasaki has announced one new and two updated models for 2025. The new 2025 Kawasaki W230 is a small retro bike inspired by the 1965 650-W1, and it joins the W800 in the W series. The Ninja 1100SX ABS sport-tourer and Versys 1100 SE LT ABS adventure crossover get several shared updates, including a larger engine, an upgraded quickshifter, smartphone connectivity functions, and more.
The 2025 Kawasaki W230 ABS is a new retro-inspired motorcycle and the second addition to what Kawasaki is calling its W series, which before now has included only the W800. The W230 is a small-displacement bike inspired by the 1965 650-W1.
The W230 includes several design features that give it its retro appearance. The engine’s cylinder head features rounded and large cooling fins with machined tips. The bike also includes a chrome fuel-injector cover and a teardrop fuel tank. Its peashooter muffler design is decidedly retro and is crafted from stainless steel with a buffed finish. The bike also includes a chrome-plated handlebar and a 3D “W” emblem on the tank.
2025 Kawasaki W230 ABS
It’s powered by an air-cooled 233cc single-cylinder engine with SOHC. It has a bore and stroke of 67.0 x 66.0mm, and Kawasaki says it is tuned to prioritize torque in the low- to mid-range. It has a 6-speed transmission and is fuel-injected.
The W230 has a semi-double-cradle frame with a 27-degree rake and 3.7 inches of trail. Suspension is provided by a 37mm nonadjustable telescopic fork and twin shocks with 5-step preload adjustment. The wheels are spoked, with an 18-incher in the front and a 17-inch wheel in the rear. A single 265mm disc in the front is pinched by a dual-piston caliper, and a 220mm disc with a single-piston caliper slows things down out back.
Kawasaki designed the W230’s ergonomics to be relaxed and upright. It features a seat height of 29.3 inches and a slim seat design for easy reach to the ground. Additional features to enhance comfort are the sculpted fuel tank with knee cut-outs, rubber pads and weights in the footpegs, and bar-end weights to manage vibration. The bike has a low claimed wet weight of 315.3 lb.
A welcome safety feature on the W230 is standard ABS. Instrumentation includes separate speedometer and tachometer gauges paired with an integrated LCD that shows odometer, tripmeter, and a clock. It also features a round LED headlight with separate chambers for low and high beams.
The 2025 Kawasaki W230 ABS will be available in Metallic Ocean Blue / Ebony with an MSRP of $5,599.
2025 Kawasaki Ninja 1100SX ABS and Versys 1100 SE LT ABS Updates
Kawasaki’s Ninja 1100SX ABS sport-tourer and Versys 1100 SE LET ABS adventure crossover both receive updates for 2025, and the Ninja 1100SX SE ABS gets additional suspension and brake updates.
2025 Kawasaki Ninja 1100SX ABS in Metallic Carbon Gray / Mettalic Diablo Black
The inline-Four that powers these models gets a bump in displacement to 1,099cc, up from 1,043. It has a bore and stroke of 77.0 x 59.0mm, with an additional 3mm of stroke than before. Additionally, 5th and 6th gears have been lengthened on both bikes.
The Ninja 1100SX ABS and Versys 1100 SE LT ABS share an inline-Four that now has a displacement of 1,099cc, with a longer stroke than before.
They also benefit from an update to the Kawasaki Quick Shifter, an up/down quickshifter that now functions at lower revs than previously. Other changes include a new USB-C outlet and a 10mm-larger rear brake disc. The bikes pair to a smartphone via Kawasaki’s Rideology app, which now supports voice commands for using the app without needing to take hands off the bars.
2025 Kawasaki Versys 1100 SE LT ABS in Metallic Graphite Gray / Metallic Diablo Black
The Ninja 1100SX SE ABS now sports Brembo M4.32 front brake calipers, a Brembo master cylinder, and Brembo discs. It’s also equipped with an Öhlins S46 rear shock with a remote preload adjuster. It’s visually distinguishable from the non-SE with its gold-colored front and rear wheels and gold-alumite finish on the front fork outer tubes. The SE also gets heated grips.
2025 Kawasaki Ninja 1100SX SE ABS in Emerald Blazed Green / Metallic Diablo Black
The 2025 Kawasaki Ninja 1100SX ABS will be available in Metallic Carbon Gray / Mettalic Diablo Black with an MSRP of $13,699. The SE version will be available in Emerald Blazed Green / Metallic Diablo Black with an MSRP of $15,399. The 2025 Kawasaki Versys 1100 SE LT ABS will be available in Metallic Graphite Gray / Metallic Diablo Black with an MSRP of $19,499.
Bringing you the Best Motorcycle News from Around the Web!
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.Ok
