Friday 11 November 2011

Friday bikes

Two for you this week. Both are prototypes shown by Yamaha at the recent Tokyo Show, so might never be seen again.


First up is the XTW 250 'Ryoku'. I really like the funky charm of this bike and it looks like an exaggerated version of the 'agri' bikes sold in countries like Australia. I think this would be a lot of fun as a 250cc engine would give it enough power to be interesting, the semi trail setup would allow a degree of mild off roading, and the good luggage carrying ability and screen would let you tour on it.
However, as the market for 250s is close to zero in Europe, the best we could hope for was a 600 version.
Yamaha call it an 'SUV motorcycle' and say it's “Yamaha's idea of a dependable partner for people who love motorcycles and the outdoor life.”

Next is the even less likely Y125 'Moegi'.

According to Yamaha; “Besides its appeal as a personal vehicle for daily commuting, it sports an active image that will lure owners on longer jaunts on the weekends.”

Tyres look a bit skinny for comfort! Good to see that manufacturers are exploring new ideas and not just sticking to traditional designs.








4 comments:

  1. Wow, Yamaha's big brother to a Yellow Honda Trail 90, and a moped...on steroids. I could see the Ryoku being popular in Australia, or places like Wyoming and Colorado here in the states. Maybe college students could sneak the Moegi into bicycle parking..?

    ReplyDelete
  2. I like the Ryoku, but agree that a 250 probably wouldn't sell that well compared to something like a 650 or 1000. Now, a bigger bike with that styling would be an interesting proposition. Much more rugged looking than a GS.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Yes, with its crashbars and bark busters it looks like you could fall off and not do thousands of pounds of damage to it.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Check out the Rokon Ranger & Scout to see where Yamaha got the idea for the Ryoku.

    ReplyDelete