Bikes News Review – September 2024 Edition

So please let’s get on with this bikes news. This is a monthly look back at what’s happened in the world of motorcycles here in the UK. This time, though, I’m focusing on September 2024.

Can you believe it’s the last day of September? Bloody hell, what a rubbish biking season we’ve had here in the UK. Terrible weather, and not much chance to ride enough. Just grim! Never thought it would come around, but we are already into October. Okay, jump right in for the news because there is much to cover!

Chinese Motorcycles

First, let’s talk about Chinese motorcycles. This is a subject that stirs up pretty strong emotions. It’s arguable whether Chinese bikes were always the image of cheaply put together and lousy craftsmanship. Fast forward to 2024, however, and the CF Moto 450 MT has just won our A2 bike test. It overturned the likes of the Royal Enfield Himalayan, Honda CRF300 Rally, and KTM 390 Adventure. It’s impressive!

But just the other day, there was a survey conducted, which revealed that 84% of people would not even think of shifting to a Chinese motorcycle. And then comes a question why? Is it because we do not want to support China or we do not trust the product? Ironically enough, we have welcomed Royal Enfields which are from India and were till date held in suspicion by many. Could it be time for us to take the Chinese bikes seriously? They are making some great stuff!

Self-Leveling Suspension

And now, some new technology. Now, this one here is kind of cool. This self-leveling shock system was offered by a German company named Wilbers. A system such as this allows it to have perfect sag without any electronic actuators being required. There are two oil chambers and a pump rod adjusting the pressure automatically. So you do not need to mess around with tools to adjust your suspension in accordance to different loads within your truck. Pretty cool, isn’t it?

Of course, this innovation comes with a cost. New shocks are now around £975, with many in the region of £1500. But then, they could be more reliable because they are actually not electronic. More like that new tech, then.

Bikes News Review - September 2024 Edition

CF Moto vs. KTM

And a family feud: CF Moto 800 NK bears an nearly identical engine and frame as the KTM 790 Duke. It’s less expensive, with a larger spec. Does that make it better? The CF Moto scored three out of five stars, whereas the KTM scored four. Review: While the CF Moto gets close to the KTM in many ways, for example, it lacks the brand prestige of KTM. It offers a fully adjustable suspension, cruise control, and loads for much less money. But some still like the KTM because of its reputation.

What do you think? Do you prefer a CF Moto above a KTM? Tell me in comments!

Ban on Group Riding

In yet another bizarre development, ban talk over group rides in the West Midlands. A council is to ban groups of two or more vehicles unless they get approval. Which would mean that should you wish to ride out with mates, you may actually need permission. It’s bloody mental! It’s a misguided attempt at curbing reckless driving but might gore the good stable far.

Motorcycle Live Changes

There’s a huge revamp in the UK annual motorcycle show called Motorcycle Live. The organizers promise a new festival-style theme to attract more visitors. All in all, they’re introducing live action and music. One hopes this will work out because the show has been feeling a bit stale for quite some time now. They are also introducing new presenters to make things feel fresh. Social media influencers would make it ace!

Bikes News Review - September 2024 Edition

KTM 990 Duke

Now let’s look at the KTM 990 Duke: achieved rave reviews for its handling. Yet this review does not treat it as an always advisable buy when set alongside rivals like Yamaha MT09 and the Triumph Street Triple 765R. KTM is described as one of those bikes you take out and have fun, rather than for daily riding. The reviewers give the impression that both Yamaha and Triumph offer better value for money, a more useful bike.

Aston Martin AMB 001 Pro

Aston Martin AMB 001 Pro is the one that comes next. This bike costs something like £60,000. The question one gets here is: is it a motorcycle or just some sort of vanity thing? This bike has come out as a collaboration of Bruff Superior and has been milled out from the engine of this motorcycle. A work of art in itself, many may not see it on the roads with such a price.

Bikes News Review - September 2024 Edition

New Triumph Speed Twin 1200 RS

Triumph has unveiled the Speed Twin 1200 RS. More advanced suspension, quick shifter, these will ride in the new model, while the aggressive, with not too much comfort as an epitome of sportiness. The pegs go up and the riding position, you know it’s more attacking. Moreover, some are not that impressed about the new LCD-like display, which many seem to miss the original/ classic look of analog.

Bikes News Review - September 2024 Edition

Royal Enfield Flying Flea

Some interesting news and announcements also came from Royal Enfield. They have announced their first electric motorcycle, dubbed the Flying Flea – a lightweight retro city bike. The interesting part is that it’s indeed traditional brands embracing electric technology!

Sales Trends

The sales trends are also reflected in separate trends. And while the big bikes are nowhere near last year, the smaller ones are in fact improving – 125cc to 650cc. This could be due to a combination of cost as well as a trend for lighter bicycles.

That’s it for this month’s bike news! Hope you enjoyed it. Your comments are welcome, below. Until next time, keep riding and stay safe!

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top