Paris, Intermot, EICMAIts a steady stream of new-model information at these motorcycle trade shows, and now that they are complete for another year we can bring you our fifth annual Sportbike Buyers Guide. As usual, weve compiled pictures, brief specifications and a summary of every sportbike model offered for 2013, from the beautiful and high tech Aprilia RSV4 Factory APRC to the new-rider-friendly (and much more pocketbook-friendly!) Yamaha FZ6R. Its a sign of the rebounding economy that we have 15-plus more models included than in last years guide; that in itself is good news, but perhaps even better is the increased selection available. If your riding tastes favor something sportbike related, whether its at the sport-touring end of the spectrum or the adventure-touring end, weve got you covered.
Manufacturers are presented alphabetically, and models within each manufacturers section are listed in decreasing order of price. Similar models, such as ABS and non-ABS versions of the same bike, share one capsule in many cases. The price listed represents MSRP for the base model; paint schemes and options sometimes shown in the accompanying picture may add a premium to the base price, although weve tried to point this out in the description if thats the case. Check with the manufacturer (a listing and contact information is at the end of the guide) for up-to-date pricing and options. The specifications list engine type, seat height in inches and wheelbase in inches. The engine spec can be deciphered as follows: listed first is cooling type (L-C is liquid cooled, A-C is air cooled); next is total number of valves in the engine (16V for example), then displacement in cubic centimeters; finally, the layout of the cylinders (Inline-four, V-twin, etc). Following the capsules, youll find a list of discontinued models from each manufacturer.
Aprilia RSV4 R APRC ABS /Factory APRC ABS
$16,999/$22,999
Engine L-C 16V 1000 V-Four | Seat ht. 33 in. | Wheelbase 55.9 in.
Both RSV4 models receive numerous upgrades for 2013, including a more refined APRC system, new larger fuel tank, different swingarm pivot adjustment, lower seat height, and revised engine positioning. Both bikes also feature a new three-way ABS using Brembos latest calipers with separate maps for Track, Sport, and Road.
Aprilia Tuono V4 R APRC
$14,999
Engine L-C 16V 1000 V-Four | Seat ht. 32.9 in. Wheelbase 56.9 in.
After debuting in the USA last year, the Tuono V4 R APRC returns for 2013 basically unchanged, but its not like it needed any. With 160 horsepower, a superb chassis, and the sophisticated APRC system, its best not to mess with success, especially with the sticker price unchanged from last year as well.
Aprilia Dorsoduro 1200
$11,999
Engine L-C 8V 1197 V-twin | Seat ht. 34.3 in. | Wheelbase 60.2 in.
Packing the type of power that supermoto-style bikes should have had from the start, the Dorsoduro 1200 boasts a seriously flat torque curve that doesnt run out of breath in the higher rpm range. Although identical to last years model, the same excellent handling and strong brakes are thereplus the same price.
Aprilia Mana 850 GT ABS
$11,199
Engine L-C 839 V-twin | Seat ht. 31.5 in | Wheelbase 57.6 in.
The Mana 850 GT ABS returns for 2013 with its CVT transmission (with auto and semi-auto modes), quarter fairing, and anti-lock brakes unchanged from last year. The forward storage area (beneath the dummy fuel tank) design has been copied by many recent machines; price jumps about $200 for the new year.
Aprilia Shiver 750
$9499
Engine L-C 750 V-twin | Seat ht. 31.5 in. | Wheelbase 56.7 in.
Minor styling changes (mostly color options of Aprilia Black or Glam White) head the list of revisions to the Shiver 750 for 2013, after it received a host of updates in 2011 that included petal-style brake rotors, more aggressive ergos, new controls, narrower saddle, and a wider rear tire assembly.
BMW K 1600 GT
$21,200
Engine L-C 1649 Inline-Six | Seat ht. 31.932.7 in. | Wheelbase 63.7 in.
A technological tour de force that rocked the sport-touring world in 2011, the K 1600 GTs satin-smooth yet powerful inline-six engine, traction control, Electronic Suspension Adjustment II, optional Adaptive Headlight, etc., return unchanged for 2013. New options packages offer up plenty of technology, safety, and luxury.
BMW HP4
$20,525
Engine L-C 999 Inline-Four | Seat Height 32.3 in. | Wheelbase 56.0 in.
Ridden in our December 2012 issue, the, um, high performance version of the S 1000 RR features a host of trick goodies including semi-active suspension (DDC), refined traction/wheelie control and Race ABS, launch control, titanium Akrapovic exhaust, adjustable rearsets, plus much, much more.
BMW R 1200 RT
$17,350
Engine A-C 8V 1170 Opposed-Twin | Seat Height 32.2 in./33.1 in. | Wheelbase 58.4 in.
The RT returns to the BMW lineup for 13 after a short hiatus. It has a plethora of touring-oriented features (and ABS) as standard, and a large selection of equipment packages and accessories are available, including ESA II, heated seat and grips, low suspension or seat, cruise control, onboard computer and plenty more.
BMW K 1300 S
$15,555
Engine L-C 1293 Inline-Four | Seat ht. 32.3 in. | Wheelbase | 62.4 in.
The sport version of BMWs K series returns with two options packages; the Dynamic package includes electronically adjustable suspension (ESA II), quickshifter (GSA), traction control (ASC), heated grips, tire pressure monitor, and more. Unfortunately the HP package that we liked didnt make the cut for 2013.
BMW S 1000 RR
$15,050
Engine L-C 999 Inline-Four | Seat ht. 32.3 in. | Wheelbase 56.0 in.
BMWs sporting flagship underwent a substantial upgrading last year, with the engine, chassis, and electronics all receiving refinements aimed at improving the S 1000 RRs already stellar performance. For 2013, Race ABS is now standard with DTC being the option, whereas previously it was the opposite.
BMW R 1200 R
$13,975
Engine A-C 8V 1170 Opposed-Twin | Seat Height 31.5 in. | Wheelbase 58.9 in.
BMWs Roadster is now offered with ABS as standard equipment and in three new colors: Light Grey Metallic, Magnesium Beige Metallic, and Montego Blue Metallic. Like the RT, there are plenty of accessories available for the naked Boxer to customize it to your tastes; the Classic package includes special black/white paint and wire spoke wheels.
BMW F 800 R
$10,600
Engine L-C 8V 798 Inline-Twin | Seat Height 31.5 in. | Wheelbase 59.8 in.
This cool and sexy roadster offers the perfect combination of highway riding with a high degree of maneuverability for everyday urban use, says BMW. The naked middleweight returns unchanged for 13, although new colors are Sapphire Black Metallic and Racing Blue Metallic/Alpine White in addition to the previous Mineral Silver Metallic.
BMW F 700 GS
$9990
Engine L-C 8V 798 Inline-Twin | Seat Height 32.3 in. | Wheelbase 61.5 in.
Although the new F 700 GS is labeled as the direct successor to the F 650 GS, it features the F 800 engine, albeit with shorter gearing that enhances agility while at the same time guaranteeing the bikes familiar top-class handling. ABS, ESA and traction control are all standard. An optional low seat and lowered suspension take seat height down to 30.1 inches.