New V4 engine from CFMoto: Attack on Ducati and Aprilia?
CFMoto is venturing into the high-performance motorcycle segment with a new V4 engine to compete with established names such as Ducati and Aprilia. At the EICMA, CFMoto presented a spectacular concept bike, the “Master of Speed”, whose design is extremely futuristic, but will probably not be ready for series production in this form. The focus here is primarily on the engine: the 90° V4 with counter-rotating crankshaft delivers an impressive 206 hp (151 kW) at 14,500 rpm and a torque of 114 Nm at 12,500 rpm. The engine weighs just 61.5 kg – an impressive figure compared to the competition and an indication of an optimized power-to-weight ratio.
This design promises improved handling, as the counter-rotating crankshaft reduces the gyroscopic forces, which should lead to more stable steering behavior and less wheelie tendency. However, it remains to be seen whether CFMoto can actually move up into the premier class of V4 engines with this engine when it is integrated into a production model and tested under real conditions.
Honda relies on V3 with electric supercharger
Honda surprised everyone with a completely new engine concept: a V3 engine with an electric supercharger. The liquid-cooled three-cylinder engine is designed to offer optimum performance for large-volume motorcycles and is reminiscent of the V3 design of the NS400R from the 1980s. The engine is characterized by a 75° cylinder angle and the absence of intercooling. The electric supercharger takes over the intake air control, which contributes to a more compact design and better mass centralization.
With this V3 concept, Honda aims to bridge the gap between driving pleasure and everyday practicality. The focus is on a new generation of powerful, versatile motorcycles that are specially developed for a wide range of applications. However, it remains to be seen when this engine will be installed in a production model.
Ducati Panigale V2 and Streetfighter V2: lighter, more agile, more modern
With the new Panigale V2 and the Streetfighter V2, Ducati is launching two interesting two-cylinder models on the market that continue the current supersport trend. The Panigale V2 now weighs 179 kg (395 lbs) ready to ride and is therefore 17 kg lighter than the previous model. It is powered by a 90° V2 engine with variable valve timing and Euro 5 homologation, which offers 120 hp (88 kW) at 10,750 rpm and a torque of 93.3 Nm at 8,250 rpm. The version with racing exhaust system even delivers up to 126 hp (93 kW) on the road.
Ducati has also optimized the electronics and the chassis. The Panigale V2 is available in the V2 and V2S versions, which are distinguished by their different chassis components and weight differences. The Streetfighter V2 is based on the same engine and is designed as Ducati’s lightest naked bike.
BMW F 450 GS Concept: The new A2-compatible enduro
With the F 450 GS Concept, BMW is targeting A2 license holders who are looking for a powerful yet easy to control mid-range enduro. The compact two-cylinder in-line engine delivers the maximum 48 hp (35 kW) permitted for the A2 class and is designed to offer high torque even at low engine speeds. The F 450 GS weighs around 175 kg (386 lbs) and is equipped with a progressive damping system and adjustable suspension elements.
BMW also relies on modern technology such as a 6.5-inch TFT display with connectivity and configurable riding modes, which should increase the utility value in everyday life. The series version of the F 450 GS is expected in 2025.
Suzuki DRZ-4S and DRZ-4SM: Two new all-rounders for on-road and off-road use
Suzuki presents the successors to the popular DRZ 400 series: the dual-sport DRZ-4S for road and off-road use and the supermoto-style DRZ-4SM for urban use. Both models have a 398cc single-cylinder engine with DOHC technology, which delivers 38 hp (28 kW) at 8,000 rpm and a torque of 37 Nm at 6,500 rpm. Fuel consumption is said to be between 3.4 and 3.5 liters per 100 km.
With the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System, both models offer a variety of assistance systems and riding modes that can be adapted to suit the area of use. The DRZ-4S and DRZ-4SM should score points above all with their versatile design and adaptability in everyday use.
Aprilia Tuono 457: A naked bike for the A2 class
With the Tuono 457, Aprilia is launching a new naked bike on the market that is specially tailored to A2 license holders. The 457cc two-cylinder engine delivers 47.6 hp (35 kW) at 9,400 rpm and a torque of 43.5 Nm at 6,700 rpm. Weighing in at 159 kg (351 lbs), the Tuono 457 is light and agile, making it an interesting entry-level bike.
With a modern upside-down fork, double disc brakes and 2-channel ABS, Aprilia aims to ensure high safety standards. The equipment with ride-by-wire and three riding modes should also offer a versatile riding experience.
KTM 1390 Super Duke GT: More power for road and track
With the new 1390 Super Duke GT, KTM is launching a revised version of its endurance machine onto the market. The familiar 1350cc LC8 V2 engine has been further optimized and now offers more power and better torque. New features include a central air intake, an optimized airbox and improved ergonomics for longer tours.
The chassis is based on the Super Duke R Evo and offers semi-active suspension. In addition, the Super Duke GT is equipped with a modern 8.8-inch TFT display, adaptive cruise control and new assistance systems. The 1390 Super Duke GT could be an interesting option for riders who want to ride both on the road and on the racetrack.
Honda’s electric concepts: EV Fun and EV Urban
Honda presented its EV Fun and EV Urban electric motorcycle concepts at the EICMA. The models are each designed to meet different requirements: The EV Fun concept is designed as a leisure bike, while the EV Urban concept sees itself as an urban everyday companion. With a range of over 100 km and the ability to be charged at CCS2 fast chargers, Honda wants to offer an alternative, particularly in urban areas.
Honda plans to launch these models in 2025 and has set itself ambitious goals: by 2040, Honda wants to achieve a CO₂-neutral motorcycle market and become the market leader in the field of electromobility.
Conclusion: Promising innovations and exciting concepts
EICMA 2024 brought a wide range of innovations, from new engine concepts to pioneering electric bikes. Manufacturers such as CFMoto, Honda, Ducati and BMW are increasingly focusing on technical innovations that are intended to improve both performance and the riding experience. It remains to be seen which of these concepts will make the leap into series production and how they will prove themselves in everyday use. In any case, the coming years promise to be an exciting time for motorcycle enthusiasts and tech-savvy riders.
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