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Archive for December, 2010

The new A6 is set to make its market debut in early 2011. With its light body, sporty chassis and a wide array of new assistance and multimedia systems, the full-sized sedan is packed with innovative solutions in every area of technology. The range of available engines and drivetrains is equally extensive. Combining the power of a V6 with the fuel efficiency of a four-cylinder engine, the soon-to-be-available A6 hybrid will be one highlight of the lineup.

Price: $45,200 – $59,150.

Body

Audi has created an intelligent combination of various materials, rendering the body of the new Audi A6 extremely light, safe, and stiff. Thanks to its composite steel-aluminum construction, the body weighs approximately 15 percent less than a conventional steel construction, earning the sedan with the four rings a top ranking among the competition. Providing 130 kW (177 hp) of power, the A6 2.0 TDI tips the scales at just 1,575 kilograms (3,472.28 lb), not including the driver.

Headlights

The headlights give the A6 a distinctive look. Featuring a shallow design that becomes wider toward the fenders, they shift the visual focus outward. A curved panel, or wing, gives structure to their interior, and the bottom edge forms an undulatory contour. High-intensity halogen headlights are a standard feature on the new A6. Xenon plus units that include new all-weather lights and an LED daytime running light strip are optionally available from Audi. Also available is the adaptive light function, which ensures just the right illumination in all driving conditions. Among its features is the floating headlight range control system, which detects other vehicles and localities with a camera and adapts its own light by swiveling the modules with soft transitions.

Design

The latest Audi A6 is 4.92 meters (16.14 ft) long and has a wheelbase of 2.91 meters (9.55 ft). Measuring 1.87 meters (6.14 ft) in width, it is only 1.46 meters (4.79 ft) tall. Compared to the previous model, it comes in a few millimeters shorter and lower; it width and, most notably, its wheelbase, however, have grown significantly. The harmonious proportions – the long engine hood, the short overhangs, and the sweeping roofline – embody a character of athletic elegance. Painted a high-gloss black, the large, low single-frame grill featuring beveled upper corners merges neatly with the sculptured front end. The horizontal orientation of the louvers underscores the width of the latest A6, as do the wide, low air intakes.

Engines

Audi is launching the A6 with a choice of powerful, sophisticated, and highly efficient four- and six-cylinder powerplants: two gasoline engines and three TDI units. They have outputs ranging from 130 kW (177 hp) to 220 kW (300 hp). They obtain their fuel through direct injection; the 3.0 TFSI employs a supercharger to achieve boost, and the 2.0 TFSI and TDI operate with turbochargers. Each of these engines makes use of technologies from the Audi modular efficiency platform. Much effort has gone into optimizing these engines, particularly with regard to internal friction, in keeping with the brand’s innovative thermal management system.

The new Audi A6 is setting the standard for efficiency in the executive class. Throughout the entire model line, fuel consumption in the A6 has decreased by up to 19 percent compared with the previous models – even as its performance has increased. The 2.0 TDI requires on average just 4.9 liters of fuel per 100 km (48.00 ÚS mpg) and emits only 129 g CO2 per km (207.61 g/mile).The most powerful gasoline engine in the A6 family is the 3.0 TFSI; its mechanical charger is situated in the 90-degree V formed by the cylinder banks. The V6 delivers 220 kW (300 hp) of power and 440 Nm (324.53 lb-ft) of torque, the latter at 2,900 to 4,500 rpm. The A6 3.0 TFSI sprints from standing to backroad speed in 5.5 seconds and reaches an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph). It consumes on average 8.2 liters per 100 km (26.68 ÚS mpg) and emits 190 g CO2 per km (305.78 g/mile) – an advance of 13 percent over the previous model, which produced 213 kW (290 hp).

Drivetrain

The new A6 is also available with a wide range of drivetrains. Depending on the engine version, these include front-wheel drive and quattro drive, the manual six-speed transmission, the continuously variable multitronic, and the seven-speed S tronic – the lightning fast dual-clutch transmission is a new addition to the large series. Audi offers optional shift paddles. The transmissions are a major factor in the efficiency of the new A6. They stand out due to their low internal friction and high efficiency; with their wide gear-ratio spread, they are high geared for high speeds. The automatic transmissions have access to predictive route data from the navigation systems and are integrated into the engine’s thermal management system. The differential is in front of the clutch and immediately behind the engine. Accordingly, the front axle on the A6 is positioned farther forward, making for a long wheelbase and a harmonious axle load distribution.

The four-cylinder TDI transfers its power to the front wheels. It is fitted as standard with a manual transmission or, alternatively, with the multitronic. These transmissions are also available for the front-wheel-drive version of the 2.8 FSI. The manual transmission will also be available soon after for the 150 kW (204 hp) 3.0 TDI. The FSI gasoline engine can also be coupled with quattro permanent all-wheel drive and the S tronic. The 3.0 TFSI and the 180 kW (245 hp) 3.0 TDI come with a standard all-wheel drive, always in combination with the S tronic. All quattro versions of the new A6 implement the latest development stage of the permanent all-wheel drive with the crown-gear center differential. This system distributes power in an especially flexible, dynamic manner, while also featuring a compact, lightweight construction. The basic ratio of power distribution between the front and rear axle is 40:60 – a sporty, rear-biased characteristic.

Chassis

The chassis of the new Audi A6 combines sporty precision with supreme comfort. The wheel control arms and many other components are made of lightweight aluminum. Each of the front wheels is guided by five control arms, with self-tracking trapezoidal-link suspension operating at the rear. The standard alloy wheels are 16 or 17 inches in diameter, depending on the engine version. Audi and quattro GmbH offer wheels with up to 20-inch rims as an option. Tire formats ranging from 225/60 to 265/35. A tire-pressure monitor display is standard, and certain tires can be optionally equipped with emergency running properties.

The four disk brakes – internally ventilated at the front – are generously sized and powerful. The brake light operates on an adaptive principle; when the brakes are fully applied, it warns the traffic behind by pulsating rapidly. The redesigned power §teering has an electromechanical drive that operates in a highly efficient manner. The degree of support it provides is based on the speed. With a ratio of 16.1:1, the §teering is sporty and direct, providing precise feedback from the road. It cooperates closely with the optional Audi active lane assist system and also proves useful with braking when the car has traction on only one side: The §teering impulses it gives in this case make it easier for the driver to steer in the right direction.

Equipment and Trim

The new Audi A6 will arrive at dealerships with an array of standard equipment, including the Audi pre sense basic system, alloy wheels, the high-efficiency two-zone automatic air conditioning system, the front center armrest, the engine start-stop button, the tire pressure monitoring system, the adaptive brake light, the MMI radio complete with 6.5-inch monitor, and the electromechanical parking brake. The safety package consists of two front, side and head airbags, four belt tensioners, and the integral Audi head restraint system.

The 2011 Ninja ZX-14, which comes to challenge Suzuki’s coveted Hayabusa, is powered by a 1,352cc liquid-cooled, DOHC, four valve per cylinder, inline-four engine. The power is channeled through a hydraulic clutch and six speed transmission, down to the 190/50 ZR17 rear tire. The exact horsepower and torque figures of the Ninja ZX-14 are irrelevant, but a track day will tell you anything there is to know. As for the brakes, what we do know is that each piston in the calipers has its own brake pad, which increases cooling efficiency and decreases the chance deforming due to heat.

Engine

No company knows more about in-line fours than Kawasaki. From the early Z-1 to our factory MotoGP bikes, our knowledge about the in-line four-cylinder engine is unsurpassed. The virtues of this design are many: powerful, smooth running and very compact, if it’s a Kawasaki superbike, it has to be an in-line four. Each component of this amazing engine was thoroughly developed to deliver the perfect balance of power, torque, and ridability. Twisting the throttle on the ZX-14 gives the kind of response you would expect from a large bore machine; a seamless spread of awesome torque, right ’round the dial.

Chassis

The Ninja ZX-14 runs Kawasaki’s exclusive aluminum monocoque frame. Rock steady at speed, and offering responsive handling characteristics, this advanced chassis design strikes an ideal balance between sport riding, and high-speed running on the highway. Our engineers made full use of the design freedom given to them by the engine’s compact size. The engine’s position forward in the frame, the wheelbase and front/rear wheel weight balance were all carefully chosen to achieve both high-speed stability and responsive handling. Aluminum monocoque frame represents a further evolution of the frame first used on Kawasaki’s KR500 racer then in production on the Ninja ZX-12R. This advanced design makes possible a very slim, compact package.

Brakes/Wheels

Formidable front brake performance is further enhanced with a radial-pump master cylinder that offers superb feel at the lever. Use of four individual brake pads promotes even heat distribution across each pad virtually eliminating fade due to pad warpage at high temperatures.Rearbrake features 250mm, drilled, petal style rotor and 2-piston callipers for additional stopping power and improved braking feel. Newly designed wheels feature centre ribs that are slightly offset so that tire balance weights can be located at the wheel centreline.

Ergonomics

In spite of the ZX-14′s awesome performance, the machine is surprisingly non-intimidating. This is due as much to the seamless power delivery, as it is to the smooth ride and its rider-friendly ergonomics. On the ZX-14, the typical weekend jaunt leaves the rider refreshed and invigorated. Despite its long and low appearance, the ZX-14 offers a very relaxed sport riding position. Compact without being cramped, the bars are positioned so that riders do not have to stretch to reach them. Low-set footpegs give ample legroom. The low seat height and narrow seat front make it easy to reach the ground when stopped at lights.The narrow engine, monocoque frame, and waisted fuel tank make it easy to keep knees comfortably close together when riding. A depression in the fuel tank cover facilitates tucking in behind the screen.

Aerodynamics & Styling

The ZX-14 exudes an aura of power and assurance found only in the world’s most powerful machines. As befits its flagship status, the ZX-14 offers a combination of avant garde design, meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. Whether parked in front of a café or zooming effortlessly down the highway, this is a machine people will notice. The ZX-14′s bodywork gives it extremely long and low styling. The front cowl extends well over the front wheel and the fairing almost hides the front wheel. All the lines of the bike move from front to rear, giving the bike an impression of speed even when it standing still.

The ZX-14′s multifunctional aerodynamics package reduces drag, adds stability at highway speeds and keeps you out of the wind when sport riding in the hills.Raised “Kawasaki” and model emblems contribute to the classy styling. Long front fender with aerodynamic side wings contributes to the ultra high speed potential of the ZX-14.

Fuel Tank

A small under-cowl forward of the rear wheel contributes to the bike’s flowing lines. This under-cowl is removed when fitting the optional center stand. LED tail lamp features a unique “V” design. This will be the most common view of the ZX-14 on the move. Front and rear turn signals are integrated into the fairing and rear cowl. Clear signal lenses with orange bulbs contribute to the high quality appearance.

2011 Kawasaki ZZR 1400 Features

Key Features
- 1,352cc inline-four with DFI® provides smooth power while producing impressive amounts of horsepower
- Lightweight aluminum monocoque frame is narrow, strong and rigid
- Radial-mounted front brake calipers and radial-pump front brake master cylinder combine for superior braking power and control
- Six-speed transmission
- Fully adjustable suspension allows for excellent control and feedback
- Hydraulic clutch offers precise clutch engagement and optimal feel
- Natural yet aggressive ergonomics
- Multi-function LCD instrumentation offers a wealth of information and is easy to read
- Standard rear seat cowl adds to bike’s aerodynamic styling

1,352cc Four-cylinder, DOHC Engine
- Tuned to provide smooth power across a very wide rev range while producing impressive horsepower numbers
- Chrome composite-plated aluminum cylinder bores are lightweight, durable, and quickly carry heat away from the combustion chamber and piston for supreme durability at high power outputs
- Carefully designed engine is compact and narrow
- Low mechanical noise via special piston profile and urethane insulation sheet on the inside of the magnesium chain cover

High-flow Exhaust System
- Airflow into the exhaust from the large secondary air ports in the cylinder head and head cover, plus a third honeycomb catalyzer in the collector, help meet strict Euro III emissions standards
- Internal silencer construction minimizes impact of emissions regulations while maintaining impressive top-end power
- Exhaust connecting tube entrances are designed to enhance low-rpm response

Next-generation Monocoque Aluminum Frame
- Lightweight monocoque frame is a hollow aluminum box that arches over the engine from the steering head to the swingarm pivot. It is narrow, strong, rigid and very light
- Frame’s cast aluminum sections – steering head and swingarm pivot areas – are produced via a die-casting process for weight savings
- Rigidly mounted engine is a stressed frame member, which increases the frame’s torsional rigidity and saves approximately four pounds
- Engine is positioned forward in the frame, with the wheelbase and front/rear weight balance carefully designed to achieve high-speed stability and responsive handling
- Massive head pipe casting contributes to frame rigidity
- Frame houses the air box and air filter in a space-saving design that simplifies air cleaner maintenance
- Battery is also housed within the frame and is easily accessible through the back side of the frame

Suspension
- Inverted 43mm cartridge-type front fork utilizes damping rates that offer firm initial action to resist front-end dive when braking
- Stepless damping adjustment improves suspension performance
- Excellent control and feedback from fully adjustable bottom-link Uni-Trak® rear suspension
- Linkage rates allow linear suspension action
- Bottom-link design helps create a lower center of gravity, which makes the motorcycle more nimble
- Wheel rim center ribs are slightly offset so tire balance weights can be located precisely along the wheel’s centerline

Wind Tunnel-designed Bodywork
- Monocoque frame is positioned over the engine so the sleek fairing is uninterrupted by protruding frame spars, adding to the extremely long and low styling
- Both the front and rear turn signals are integrated into the bodywork and have clear lenses to enhance appearance
- Quadruple projector beam headlights give the ZX-14 a distinctive front fairing. The outer lights contain position lamps and high beams, while the low beams are located in the center lamps
- Lightweight Denso radiator with high-density cores provides maximum cooling efficiency.

The 2011 Odyssey’s enhanced aerodynamic shape with a lower roofline contributes to class-leading highway fuel economy, while the improved interior packaging maintains similar vertical functionality as the previous model. A wider stance creates a more accommodating interior while accenting the exterior’s dynamic appearance. Significant improvements for convenience include a new ’3-mode’ second-row seat design that expands laterally, along with a simpler-to-operate, one-motion, 60/40 split 3rd-row Magic Seat®. The ’3-mode’ second row can better accommodate three passengers with improved comfort for all, and the new ‘wide mode’ supports third-row pass-through access from the side with as many as two child seats in place in the second row. The third row provides improved legroom, along with better sight lines out of the side windows – a functional improvement resulting from the exterior’s signature ‘lightning-bolt’ belt line.

Price: $27,800 – 43,250.
Invoice: $25,195 – 39,155.

Exterior Styling

The 2011 Odyssey dramatically departs from conventional minivan styling with its low and wide stance, highlighted by a ‘lightning-bolt’ belt line that further distinguishes the vehicle’s profile. Compared to the previous generation, the 2011 Odyssey’s slightly lower roofline and wider stance contributes to a sleeker, stronger and more dynamic presence with improved aerodynamics. Steeply raked front and rear roof pillars, a unique side-glass profile, a chamfered roof line and a tapered rear cabin shape combine to create a dynamic and distinctive appearance from every perspective. The lightning-bolt belt line dives toward the front of the vehicle, setting the Odyssey apart from the monotony of other minivan’s traditionally straight belt line. The lightning bolt further emphasizes the 2011 Odyssey’s sporty appearance while enhancing outward visibility for third-row passengers. Aggressive body-to-wheel proportions reduce the perception of vertical height common to most minivan designs. Fender flares further accent the vehicle’s securely planted and stylish persona. The availability of projector beam HID headlights and form-fit fog lights further contributes to a sophisticated and upscale appearance on applicable models.

Body Construction

The Odyssey’s extensively redesigned platform becomes more lightweight and rigid for 2011, allowing for the vehicle’s high levels of safety, increased fuel economy, refined handling and a comfortable ride. The 2011 Odyssey contains 59 percent high-strength steel content by weight (between 340 MPa and 1500 MPa), the most of any Honda to date and a significant increase from 35 percent on the previous model. The extensive use of high-strength steel contributes to lower vehicle curb weight and a stronger body. Compared to the previous generation, the 2011 Odyssey improves front lateral stiffness by 6 percent and rear vertical stiffness by 22 percent. Aerodynamically, the Odyssey is more efficient with a 5.5-percent reduction in Cd (aerodynamic drag) compared to the previous model.

New Technology Highlights

A Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with Voice Recognition is available on the Odyssey EX-L and standard on the Odyssey Touring. The system features an 8-inch, high-resolution VGA color display and uses GPS technology to provide turn-by-turn guidance to a destination, in addition to other features including a Zagat® restaurant guide. New for 2011, the navigation system adds a wide variety of features and functionality, including a high-resolution VGA display and improved graphics, a 60GB hard drive (replaces DVD-based system), FM traffic in the Ú.S. (if locally available), a National Scenic Byways and All-American Roads Guide(new for 2011), and the option to import a favorite photograph to use as ‘wallpaper.’ In select cities, the FM traffic displays constantly updated traffic data from certain roads on the map and indicate decreased flow rates, incidents or construction. The database includes information on more than seven million points of interest, including gasoline stations, hotels, banks, restaurants, museums and local attractions.

Honda DVD Rear Entertainment System with 16.2-inch Últra-Wide Display. A state-of-the-art, factory-integrated Rear Entertainment System (RES) with an ultra-wide display is standard on the Odyssey Touring Elite model. At 16.2 inches, the RES screen is the largest ever offered in a Honda. It’s also the most versatile, because it can simultaneously screen two different sources of programming side-by-side, such as a video game and a movie, for different passengers. The two programs being played can be easily switched from side to side, so the viewers don’t have to change seats. The wireless headphones supplied with this system can be tuned to either input source as desired. The system includes a High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) port for attaching high definition players and certain gaming consoles.

Interior Styling

The interior of the 2011 Odyssey embraces a ‘cool and intuitive’ theme consistent with its increased levels of technology and family versatility. The dashboard’s simple and clean lines accent the depth of the cabin for an open and spacious feeling. A key exterior design element, the lightning-bolt belt line, improves the interior sight lines from the third row. Úpscale materials available on certain models consist of metallic-look trim, glossy black panels and luxuriously grained soft surfaces. Interior color choices are beige, gray and truffle (dark gray). The Odyssey exemplifies quality from its ergonomically friendly controls and sensible human factors, such as the positioning of grab handles, bins and pockets; intuitive switches and controls; and the feel of textiles and soft-touch textured surfaces.

Interior Versatility and Functionality

To fulfill its mission as the ultimate family vehicle, the 2011 Odyssey interior focuses on providing three rows of comfortable, adult-friendly seating together with a large interior volume and plentiful storage capabilities. Overall, the interior has been widened as more convenience and functionality features have been added to all three rows. Nine fundamental seating configurations (EX and above) can accommodate between one and eight passengers (seven on LX) simply by adding, folding or removing the modular seating elements. Innovations can be found throughout the cabin, including such features as a new second-row ’3-mode’ seating configuration and a third row that is more comfortable for adults. Engineered for a quiet interior, improvements to body rigidity help to enhance the effectiveness of the vehicle’s sound-deadening material to better isolate road noise. The end result is a quieter cabin at highway cruising speeds with less background noise, which helps make conversations from the front of the cabin to the rear of the cabin more audible.

As before, a 4×8 sheet of plywood can fit inside the Odyssey’s cargo bay with the second row seats removed, and 10-foot-long 2×4 studs can fit inside the vehicle with the available front console removed. Numerous storage bins for every passenger are included, starting with generously sized door bins and a thoughtful storage area for purses or other similar-sized items in the available center console. Meanwhile, the lid of the front row center console (EX and above) is sized to accept four-cup beverage holders from take-out restaurants. A convenient flip-up trash bag ring extends from behind the center console and can secure a small disposable bag, giving passengers a convenient way to keep the inside of the vehicle clean. The Odyssey provides up to 15 beverage holders depending on the model, seating and console configurations (10 on Odyssey LX). The Odyssey offers a generous 38.4 cubic feet of storage behind the third-row seat, 93.1 cubic feet of storage behind the second row, and 148.5 cubic feet of storage behind the front seats – slightly more than the previous model (+1.1 cubic feet).

Chassis

A long118.1-inch wheelbase, wide front and rear track dimensions, advanced suspension design and features such as VSA with traction control contribute to the Odyssey’s excellent overall handling. Specially tuned independent MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension provide a surprisingly nimble and rewarding driving experience, which also provides dynamic safety for which all Honda vehicles are known. The Odyssey’s 4-wheel disc brake system incorporates larger-diameter rotors. As before, the system incorporates ABS, Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) as standard equipment. EBD automatically optimizes braking force between the front and rear wheels depending on passenger and cargo load, reducing the distance it takes the Odyssey to stop as compared to a vehicle without EBD. Brake Assist senses emergency stopping and applies all available boost to help stop sooner. ABS is designed to assist the driver retain §teering control during heavy braking. The Odyssey’s hydraulic power-§teering pump uses a variable-displacement design that reduces the constant load on the engine. When the vehicle is maneuvering at slower speeds, like when parking, the power §teering automatically increases the power assist so less effort is needed to turn the wheel. At highway speeds, it automatically reduces the power assist so that the driver has more feedback, all while exerting less drag on the engine for improved fuel economy. Standard on the Odyssey LX, EX and EX-L are 17-inch wheels, while 18-inch wheels are standard on the Odyssey Touring. The tires on all models feature low-rolling resistance construction to aid in maximizing fuel economy.

Powertrain

An advanced 3.5-liter, 24-valve, SOHC, i-VTEC V-6 gasoline engine provides the 2011 Odyssey with a combination of satisfying acceleration performance, excellent fuel economy and ultra-low emissions. The all-aluminum engine features a dual-stage intake manifold for low- and mid-rpm performance. The engine generates 248 hp and 250 lb-ft. of torque, while still achieving a class-leading highway EPA fuel economy rating of 28 miles per gallon (Odyssey Touring). The engine’s Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) feature allows the engine to make responsive power while maintaining high levels of fuel efficiency. VCM works on the principle that a vehicle only requires a fraction of its power output at cruising speeds and allows the engine to effectively run on three, four or six cylinders, based on the power requirement. A five-speed automatic transmission is standard on the Odyssey LX, EX and EX-L. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard on the Odyssey Touring.

Compared to the five-speed automatic transmission, the six-speed automatic transmission has lower gear ratios in first through fifth gears to enhance acceleration, and the sixth gear ratio is taller to enhance fuel economy. The class-leading EPA-estimated highway fuel economy for the V-6-powered Odyssey Touring is better than similarly sized 4-cylinder-powered minivans currently available from other manufacturers for the 2011 model year. The 2011 Odyssey meets the Últra-Low Emission Vehicle (ÚLEV) standard in California and states that adhere to California Air Resource Board (CARB) certification standards.

Safety Equipment

An extensive list of safety equipment comes standard on every Odyssey. The Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure is a Honda-exclusive body design that enhances occupant protection and crash compatibility in frontal collisions. Additional standard safety equipment includes Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®), commonly referred to as electronic stability control; anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist; three-row side-curtain airbags with a rollover sensor; driver’s and front passenger’s side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); dual-stage, multiple- threshold front airbags; and active front seat head restraints. Also, a pedestrian injury mitigation design in the front of the vehicle is intended to help absorb energy in the event of a collision.

The 2011 Yamaha R6 is designed to do one thing extremely well: get around a race track in minimal time. It’s about a screaming, 15,000 rpm plus fuel injected four cylinder engine in a taut chassis that lets it snap from upright to full lean instantly.

ENGINE

Ultra-compact, lightweight, short stroke, 599cc, DOHC, 16-valve, liquid-cooled, in-line four-cylinder with lightweight titanium valves produces incredible horsepower. Redline is set at an amazing 16,000rpm. 67mm bore and 42.5mm stroke provide a fast revving powerplant. Engine width is minimized thanks to Yamaha’s special casting technologies and “liner less” cylinder design. Compact “pent roof” cylinder head design features ultra lightweight titanium valves for both intake and exhaust. The intake valve angle is 11.5 degrees and the exhaust is 12.25 degress. The intake valves are 27mm in diameter while the exhaust valves are 23mm.

Yamaha Chip Control Throttle (YCC-T) is another 1st for Yamaha. This system electronically controls the throttle valves for outstanding response and improved controllability at high rpms. The system features Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) and D.C. motor driven throttle valves. The YCC-T system electronically controls the throttle valves for outstanding response and improved controllability at all rpms. The YCC-T is used to provide even more control of the intake air volume for a smoother torque character. The YCC-T features 3 – ECU’s inside the main ECU to control ignition, fuel injection and the YCC-T. This special ECU is capable of responding to changes at a speed of 1000th of a second.

The exhaust system also features Yamaha’s EXUP System (Exhaust Ultimate Power Valve) utilizing a titanium body and butterfly valves that prevent the “blow back” phenomenon caused by “valve overlap”. This design reduces weight and maximizes cornering clearance. The EXUP system eliminates “flat spots” in the power band and reduces emissions too. This is a 1st on a 600cc supersport machine. High powered 32 bit electronic control unit actually contains three ECUs inside the main ECU to control the FI system, the YCC-T system and the ignition system.

CHASSIS/SUSPENSION

Compact, lightweight aluminum Deltabox frame offers an optimized total rigidity balance for incredibly light and agile handling. This frame is a MotoGP inspired innovation that Yamaha calls a “straight frame concept”. This means the top spars of the frame lie as close to possible to the frame’s torsional axis (the line connecting the head pipe to the swingarm pivot point). The ram air duct passes through the frame at the head pipe for a straight ram air effect too. A mix of revised mold castings and pressed aluminum plates make up the frame. The engine is a fully stressed chassis member allowing for a super-light frame design.

Fully adjustable 41mm inverted front fork provides 120mm (4.7″) of wheel travel and offers incredible suspension performance with ultra-precise feedback. Adjustments include: 5-way spring preload, 4-way high speed compression damping, 20-way low speed compression damping and 25-way rebound damping. The inverted design not only reduces unsprung weight but also increases the rigidity of the fork. The range of adjustments allows the rider to tune suspension to match riding style and conditions.

Lightweight five-spoke 17″ wheels reduce unsprung weight by making hub and spokes a single structural unit. A special casting technique makes the rim section substantially lighter and stronger. Ultra-sleek “new edge form” bodywork features a sharp front profile with centrally located Ram Air duct, engine-revealing side cowlings and ultra-sleek tail section. There are special side fairing intake ducts to allow cool air to circulate around the engine, fuel tank and frame areas. “Minimalism” and “mass forward” movement are two words that best describe this design body.

17.5-litre fuel tank provides excellent rider ergonomics and an aggressive riding position. The reserve portion of the tank is 3.5 liters. The tank features a front tank cover like the R1 and an internal electric fuel pump. Compact race inspired multi-function digital and analog instrumentation with adjustable back lighting. Features: analog tach, digital speedometer, dual tripmeters, low fuel warning light, fuel tripmeter, and clock. There is also a programmable shift light and stop watch/lap timer that is controlled by the LHS handlebar mounted switch gear.

Immobilizer ignition system is designed to reduce the possibility of “ride away” theft. This system must recognize the “coded ignition key” in order for the unit to start. If the immobilizer ignition does not recognize the key (or a theft’s screwdriver or other type of “jimmy tool”) the bike will not start even if the ignition is turned or forced into the on position. If the system does not recognize the correct coded ignition key, the ignition system and starter will not function.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Adjustable front brake lever

Special 525 lightweight O-ring chain is used to reduce weight

Steering lock

Lightweight aluminum side stand and chain adjusters

Lightweight low maintenance sealed gel-type battery

The YZF-R6 offers a significant level of power and performance. It is not intended for novice or inexperienced riders.

The 2011 Kia Magentis will aslo have a longer wheelbase and at the interior the manufacturer says that besides the more spacious cabin, occupants will benefit from the latest safety equipments as well as class-leading luxury equipment.

The saloon exudes an athletic confidence from every angle – itsraked roofline, high and pronounced shoulder line of its sculptedflanks and its extended wheelbase are complemented by flaredwheelarches and a shallow glasshouse that create a saloon with amuscular, self-assured stance.

The striking visage of the car features a new interpretation ofKia’s bold ‘tiger’ family face that’s edged by piercing projectorheadlamps.

Following the theme of recent model revisions, new Magentis islonger, lower and wider than before, the Kia’s coupe-like profile isenhanced by the sweeping chrome arc that flows from A to C pillar, adistinctive design motif that visually lowers the car further still andenhances its cab-backwards proportions.

“For this car we started with a clean sheet and worked to achieve anexterior design with a European feeling and stance,” explains GregoryGuillaume, Chief Designer, Kia Europe.  To help achieve this, theexterior was designed by his team in Frankfurt.  The interior wascreated by the design team in California.

The new D-segment offering is spacious, and with class-leadinglevels of safety and luxury equipment, the intelligently configured anddriver-oriented cabin underlines a newfound poise and presence. “This new model embodies Kia’s confident new design direction,” says Schreyer. “It’s a global car with individual appeal.”

The all-new Kia saloon will be launched in phases around the globeand will be seen in UK showrooms in 2011 – the model name will beconfirmed closer to launch. The Kia Motors press conference for the New York International AutoShow will take place on April 1, 2010 from 10:10 – 10:35 am (localtime) at the Kia stand on Level 1 of the ‘Jacob Javits Center’ locatedbetween 34-39 Streets on 11th Avenue in New York City.

Derbi turned up at the Milan Eicma show with this completely new Derbi GPR 125 4T. The small sports motorcycle has an agressive design and a new chassis and engine. The suspension is rigid, based on a real racer style, the upside-down fork measures 40mm, a record in this sector, and the rear fork is asymmetrical, leaving space for the transmission chain.

The engine of this GPR 125 is a single cylinder, four stroke, four valves with twin cam distribution and Euro 3 compliant. It’s capable of 15hp, and has consumption of 4.2 l/km. The 13 litre tank therefore offers an autonomy of about 300km.

Other features include the 300mm front disc brake with radial calipers and four pistons; the rear is a 218mm disc with single piston caliper. The instrumentation includes LCD digital display and the front headlight is halogen.

The soul of the new GPR 125 is the single cylinder four-stroke engine with four intake and exhaust valves and developing 15 actual hp. This engine is one of the highest performing in its class, with consumption in the region of 4.2 l/100km. The Derbi GPR 125’s 13-litre tank can therefore offer a total riding range of over 300km. It more than complies with the current Euro 3 emissions standard.

Details for excellence

The braking equipment on the new GPR 125 is of the same quality as the rest of the bike. On the front axle, a 300mm disc is gripped by a two-piston radial brake caliper. The rear brake is of the single-piston caliper type.

Looking at the dashboard on the new GPR 125, one can clearly see the influence of  MotoGP bikes. An LCD digital screen incorporates the revolutions counter in a progressive line, the digital speedometer, fuel gauge, total and partial mileage counter and a clock.

For night vision, the GPR has a powerful front headlight with a halogen bulb. At the back, the slim tailpiece which accommodates the passenger seat incorporates a modern light set based on clearly visible, rapid illumination LED technology.

Engine and Transmission
Displacement: 124.76 ccm (7.61 cubic inches)
Engine type: Single cylinder
Stroke: 4
Compression: 12.0:1
Bore x stroke: 58.0 x 47.0 mm (2.3 x 1.9 inches)
Fuel system: Carburettor. 30 mm
Valves per cylinder: 4
Ignition: CDI
Starter: Electric
Lubrication system: Oil pump
Cooling system: Liquid
Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type final drive: Chain
Clutch: Multi-disc

Physical Measures
Dry weight: 120.0 kg (264.6 pounds)
Seat height: 800 mm (31.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall length: 1,977 mm (77.8 inches)
Overall width: 720 mm (28.3 inches)
Wheelbase: 1,355 mm (53.3 inches)

Chassis and Dimensions
Front suspension: 40 mm upside-down fork.
Front suspension travel: 120 mm (4.7 inches)
Rear suspension: Monoshock.
Rear suspension travel: 120 mm (4.7 inches)
Front tyre dimensions: 110/70-17
Rear tyre dimensions: 130/70-17
Front brakes: Single disc. Radial Caliper
Front brakes diameter: 300 mm (11.8 inches)
Rear brakes: Single disc. Floating Caliper
Rear brakes diameter: 180 mm (7.1 inches)
Exhaust system: Euro III

Other Specifications
Fuel capacity: 14.00 litres (3.70 gallons)
Color options: White.