We’ve known that the Bimota KB4 has been in development for a while now. The Italian firm first showcased the motorcycle at EICMA 2019, and two years later, the production-ready iteration has made its debut at EICMA 2021. 

Powering the KB4 is the same 1,043cc inline-four engine as the one on the Kawasaki Ninja 1000 SX. Peak output figures are similar at 142hp and 81.9lb-ft of torque, but Bimota has equipped the bike with its exhaust system that features a single end can. 

What makes this Bimota special is that its radiator has been placed under the seat, unlike on most other motorcycles that have it in front of the engine. The bike features substantial air intakes on either side that carry air via a carbon-fiber tunnel to the radiator.

Engine aside, the Bimota KB4 is entirely different from the Ninja 1000 SX. Autocar India reports that Its chassis has a unique tubular front frame and that at 187kg (dry), the bike is also significantly lighter than its Japanese counterpart. Suspension hardware is from Öhlins — FG R&T 43mm NIX30 forks at the front and a TTX36 rear shock. The KB4 uses OZ forged aluminum wheels that wear Pirelli rubber. 

Braking, meanwhile, is handled by Brembo Stylema calipers that bite down on dual 320mm discs at the front.

The manufacturer also revealed a KB4 RC, a naked iteration near-identical to the KB4, that will go on sale next year.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Kawasaki showcased multiple models from its 2022 lineup at the recently concluded EICMA show in Milan. Of the lot, the Versys 650 and H2 SX SE have received the most notable updates, including styling tweaks and updated tech.

2022 Kawasaki Versys 650

The Versys 650 finally gets a much overdue update. Autocar India reports that the popular middle-weight sports tourer now features the 5-inch TFT display that made its way onto most of Kawasaki’s model range earlier this year. This introduces Bluetooth connectivity via the Kawasaki Rideology app. 

The update also sees the addition of traction control — two levels that you can toggle via the new display. Mode 1 offers the least intervention, while Mode 2 is for early intervention in low-grip surfaces. You can also turn the system off.

A visual change comes in the form of a new front end that resembles the range-topping Versys 1000. This includes a redesigned front fairing with sharper lines, a new twin LED headlight, and an adjustable windscreen. 

The rest of the Versys 650 remains unchanged, and the bike will continue to be powered by the same 649cc parallel-twin motor with no change in performance. While Kawasaki hasn’t revealed pricing for the updated model, we expect it to cost slightly more than its predecessor, considering the added tech on offer.

2022 Kawasaki H2 SX SE

The Kawasaki H2 SX SE has received more comprehensive changes for 2022. While the 999cc, supercharged, inline-four engine continues to produce an identical peak power of 200hp, Kawasaki has made some notable changes to the engine. It now gets revised cam timing, a new exhaust, and other refinements to the engine and gearbox.

The flagship tourer has also been updated with the Bosch radar system we’ve seen on the Ducati Multistrada V4. This enables adaptive cruise control, blindspot monitoring, and forward-collision warning. It also features the new Bosch 10.3ME IMU, allowing vehicle hold assist, keyless unlock, and a tire pressure monitoring system.

Other tech additions come in the form of a ‘SPIN’ infotainment system that allows you to control your smartphone screen via the bike’s 6.5-inch TFT dash.

Some cosmetic updates for 2022 include a sharper, more aggressive face, redesigned side, and upper fairing cowls. 

For 2022, the H2 SX SE features larger seats and an updated iteration of Showa’s electronically-controlled Skyhook suspension. 

Like with the Versys 650, Kawasaki is yet to announce pricing details for the H2 SX SE, and we shall update this space when more information is available.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com