2001 Model Preview
More Exciting Than The Hallebop Comet on a Moonless Night
 It's always exciting in September when the dealers return from their
respective manufacturer conventions and get revved up about upcoming
models. Prior to that time, you only had an idea of what might arrive in the US by visiting European and Japanese websites that
showed their new
models for the coming year.
But the cat's out of the bag now, and both Sound RIDER! readers and local
dealers are thrilled about what's around the corner. From the new
Goldwings (right) to customs from H-D and a new sport bike from Yamaha, there's
something for everyone to drool over.
BMW F650GS
"We've already sold 13, have deposits for 9 more and
we should have a demonstrator in a day or so" comments Keith Thye at
Ridewest BMW in Seattle. This is the one BMW dual-sport enthusiasts have
been waiting for because it marks the second generation for the F650, which came
to market a few years back, and like all new bikes, had it's share of initial
problems including a horrendous appetite for chains and sprockets. That's
behind us now and the still attainable seat height for all of under 6 feet is
intact so now's the time for fun.
Ducati Monster 600
If 750 cc's was too much action for you, Ducati brings to market a downsized
Monster to meet the needs of newer, less experienced riders. Looking just
like it's bigger brothers, this machine will appeal to many new riders
ready to step up to buying their first bike. The flat black paint is very
impressive. Harley-Davidson Customs
 HD
unleashes two new customs hot on the heels of the success of the Screamin' Eagle
program. The two models, a Dyna Wide Glide and a Road Glide will be much
sought after in their limited editions. "Worthy of lusty
worship," is how H-D sums it up.
Honda Goldwing
 This 1800 cc is the largest Goldwing Honda has ever brought to market.
Restyled to compete with BMW's K1200LT, this bike is the ticket in 2001 for
ultimate touring luxury. But you better put your money down now.
"Even if Marysville Ohio worked 24/7 there's no way Honda could bring
enough of these to market to meet demand," comments Jack Milne at I-90
motorsports in Issaquah. Most dealers are being allocated a handful for
the year, and like the RC51 craze of last year, it will probably take 2-3 years
for Honda to reach a supply/demand ratio that is satisfactory to dealers and
potential customers.
Kawasaki ZXR1200
After a successful two years of selling, the ZXR1100 Kawasaki threw together a
few changes to sweeten the deal on an already great bike. This time around
they've upped the displacement and horsepower, and lightened the engine weight by
three pounds. The gearing was changed in the top speed, increasing the
power band as a result of the larger motor. "It's one of the most exciting
bikes Kawasaki is bringing to market this year," comments Bellevue
Kawasaki's Mike Correll.
Kawasaki Eliminator 125
Kawasaki brings a new cruiser to market to increase its market share in the
new rider and women rider categories. "We're picking up a half a
dozen of them to provide to MSF for use in their training program,"
comments Rick Nakagaki, sales manager for RMC Motorsports in Renton.
Suzuki Bandit 1200
This standard just keeps getting bigger.
 Yamaha FZ1
How
about a new Yamaha 1000 cc machine to go along with the already top selling line
of sport bikes! "Plopping down a deposit for this tomorrow," says
a reader.
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