Triumph Tiger 1050 SE ABS $13,399
Engine L-C 12V 1050 Inline-Triple Seat HT. 32.8 in. Wheelbase 59.4 in.
The Tiger 1050 SE received some minor upgrades for 2012, including revised ergonomics, improved suspension, and numerous detail changes. These include ABS, hard bags, centerstand, and hand guards as standard equipment. There was no word at press time regarding the standard Tiger 1050 for the U.S.
Triumph Sprint GT ABS $13,399
Engine L-C 12V 1050 Inline-Triple Seat HT. 32.1 in. Wheelbase 60.5 in.
The Sprint GT returns for 2012 basically unchanged, but it’s not like it needed improvements. Two 31-liter hard bags, ABS, accessory power socket, upgraded suspension and headlights are all standard, and Triumph is claiming a 200-plus-mile range from the 5.3-gallon fuel tank. Available colors are Phantom Black and Pacific Blue.
Triumph Speed Triple /R $11,999/$12,799
Engine L-C 12V 1050 Inline-Triple Seat HT. 32.1 in. Wheelbase 56.2 in.
After getting a makeover in 2011 that included a revised chassis and minor Engine upgrades, the standard Speed Triple has finally been joined by an R-spec brother. As expected, the R gets an Öhlins NIX30 fork and TTX shock, Brembo monobloc brakes and forged aluminum wheels.
Triumph Daytona 675 /R $10,999/$12,699 Engine L-C 12V 675 Inline-Triple Seat HT. 32.5 in. Wheelbase 54.9 in.
The Daytona 675 returns with minor styling changes for 2012, with a dark finish to the bellypan, footpeg brackets, and brake discs, plus clutch and generator Engine covers embossed with the Triumph logo. The higher-spec 675R returns as well, with numerous parts upgrades including Öhlins NIX30 fork and TTX36 shock.
Triumph Street Triple /R $8899/$9599 Engine L-C 12V 675 Inline-Triple Seat HT. 31.5 /31.7 in. Wheelbase 55.5 in.
Both versions of the middleweight naked triple return for 2012 with minor updates. The standard Street Triple gets a brushed aluminum finish on the mufflers and control plates, tapered aluminum handlebar, and new color choice (Imperial Purple) while the R model receives the same aluminum finish and Triumph-branded Engine covers.
Yamaha FJR1300A $15,590
Engine L-C 16V 1298 Inline-Four
Seat HT. 33.3 – 34.2 in.
Wheelbase 60.6 in.
The big FJR has turned out to be a favorite among the extended Sport Rider family, thanks to its smooth-running Engine, comfortable ergonomics and rock-solid reliability. Touring amenities such as the OEM heated grips and adjustable windscreen help too. No changes for 2012 aside from color, which is Cobalt Blue this year.
Engine L-C 16V 998 Inline-Four Seat HT. 32.9 in. Wheelbase 55.7 in.
Yamaha’s literbike gets a dose of MotoGP tech this year, with the addition of a seven-level Traction Control System. Styling is also subtly changed, and the bike is available in the World GP 50th Anniversary Edition shown here. Add $200 to the base price for Pearl White/Candy Red paint, or $500 for the Anniversary Edition.
Yamaha YZF-R6 $10,890
Engine L-C 16V 599 Inline-Four
Seat HT. 33.5 in.
Wheelbase 54.1 in.
This middleweight screamer is listed as unchanged for ‘12, but is also available in the Anniversary Edition paint scheme for an additional $500 — only 1500 units will be produced worldwide. Other colors include Raven and Team Yamaha Blue/White, or Pearl White/Candy Red for $200 extra.
Engine L-C 20V 998 Inline-Four Seat HT. 32.1 in. Wheelbase 57.5 in.
Yamaha’s “ultimate street brawler” has been only subtly updated since its ‘06 introduction, but it still fared well in our super-standards comparison test last year. Look for the FZ1 in this Pearl White/Matte Black color scheme this year; otherwise, no changes from the ‘11 model.
Yamaha FZ8 $8690
Engine L-C 16V 779 Inline-Four
Seat HT. 32.1 in.
Wheelbase 57.5 in.
Talk about bang for the buck. Yamaha claims the FZ8, introduced last year and a little brother to the FZ1, “fills the gap for sport riders who feel a 600cc is too small and a 1000cc is too big.” It’s certainly more than its MSRP would indicate, with a surprisingly strong Engine, comfortable ergos and a smooth ride.
Engine L-C 16V 600 Inline-Four Seat HT. 30.9 in. Wheelbase 56.7 in.
This entry level sportbike combines performance, style and value. Of note for newer (and even experienced) riders are the adjustable Seat height and handlebar position that allow the ergos to be modified to suit a wide variety of people. Add $100 to the price shown here for the Raven model.