5 Cool Motorbikes We Saw This Week

1. Moto Guzzi V7 II Stornello

As far as I’m concerned, the Triumph Scrambler is one of the coolest new bikes on the planet. I’m rather fond of the Ducati Scrambler (of which a new version is out this week) too, so if Moto Guzzi wants to produce something similar, I’m not going to complain. And produce something similar they have: the V7 II Stornello.

It’s a redesigned version of the regular V7, featuring higher handlebars, a flatter seat, and a high-level Arrow exhaust. Its 744cc V-Twin produces 47bhp.

2. Ducati XDiavel

The Diavel cruiser has always been the black sheep of the Ducati family, but nevertheless, it’s a charming thing. Now though, Ducati has taken its cruiser and made it more cruiser-ey with a new-from-the-ground-up design. The riding position is now more relaxed as it’s now a more feet-forward affair, and it’s switched to belt drive rather than chain; a further indication that Ducati is after traditional chain-phobic cruiser buyers. It’s plenty powerful too, with 156bhp available from its 1262cc V-Twin.

3. Ducati 959 Panigale

The XDiavel is just one of a number of bikes Ducati launched at this year’s Milan show, but to avoid filling this list with Dukes, we’ll choose just one more: the 959 Panigale. Replacing the 899, its new 955cc V-Twin produces 157bhp, up from the old bike’s 148bhp. The fairings have been slightly redesigned too, but the cosmetic addition you’re more likely to notice is that rather hideous exhaust. But don’t worry, an underslung exhaust like the one on the 899 will be an option.

4. Suzuki GSX-R1000

Yep, Suzuki has a new version of its flagship superbike out, and nope, we’ll refrain from being annoying by calling it a Gixxer. Suzuki is confidently calling this the best handling gix…GSX-R1000 ever, as well as the most aerodynamic and fastest. Its 999cc inline-four is good for 200bhp, powering a bike that tips the scales at around 200kg, and is chock full of tech such as a 10-position traction control system, a quick shifter with an auto-blip feature, and ABS.

5. Yamaha MT-10

Why is this angry-looking thing here, you ask? Because it’s essentially a naked R1. Oh yes: 160-170bhp (the actual figure hasn’t been confirmed yet) of gnarly cross-plane crank, inline-four goodness and a chassis to die for, all unclothed and ready to do battle with the Aprilia Tuono and BMW S1000R. Sure, some will find it ugly, but that’s half the charm.

What other bikes from the Milan show caught your eye?