Motorcycle Specifications

I noticed on the Yamaha website that the new 2009 Yamaha FZ6 is now available for sale. So, I decided to do a comparison to see if there is anything about the new model that makes it better than my 2008. I hope not, because I don’t want to have to go out and buy another one.

It’s difficult to see at first glance from the website what is different about the two motorcycles. We’re off to a good start. Looking at the specs, it seems that the engine performance, size, and weight are the same as the 2008 model. According to the specifications, the only difference between the two model years is the color options and price! This isn’t really that surprising, as there can’t be a revamp every single year.

Moving over to the 2008/2009 Yamaha FZ6 features list I notice a couple of differences. The first is that instead of having a “Controlled-Fill aluminum frame” like the 2008, the 2009 has a “Controlled-Fill die-cast aluminum frame”. So now it’s die-cast aluminum, for whatever that’s worth..?

The second difference that I notice is the addition of: “Dual 12V 60/55-watt multi-reflector headlight gives a sleek, R1-type profile for superb aerodynamics and visibility.” One of the interesting things about the 2008 is that only one headlight is on when the low beams are active and both when the high beams are used. It seems that the 2009 model might just use both lights all of the time. That would be a welcome change. I get comments all the time that I have a headlight out. Well, I don’t! That’s just how it’s made! Most of the time no one believes me. In addition, when looking at the two side by side, it’s easy to see there is an aesthetic difference on the front end. Good or bad, I couldn’t really say.

Suzuki first launched its GT185 model in Europe and America early 1973. Japan didn’t receive the model until one year later in 1974. This model was also known as the Adventure and was first released with a twin-leading brake in the front wheel. This was changed a year later with a single disc laying the path for other GT model brakes were changed. The Suzuki GT185 stayed relatively the same until its discontinuation in 1977.

Suzuki produced five models within the three years of manufacturing to both release new specifications and new body schemes. The original model was known as the GT185K. The engine Suzuki released this bike with is an air-cooled 184cc parallel twin two-stroke which equipped 21 horsepower. The initial frame was beauty with leather seats and an unbelievable looking engine. The original Suzuki GT185 model was superb to say the least.

The second model that mad an appearance in the GT series was the Suzuki GT185 L. This model was released in 1974 just a year after the GT185′s original release. This model gave motorcycle enthusiasts two colors to choose from, either blue or gold. The only major difference with this model when compared to its predecessor is a sleeker body with added chrome.

The third model that was released in the GT185 series is the GT185 M. Almost every specification of this bike are copied from the previous releases. The only major difference is the body layout. The bikes seat sits a little bit lower than the GT185 L and the engine is raised a little higher. This time around people who purchased this bike were able to pick from a few more colors including red, blue and gold.

The Suzuki 185 A was manufactured in 1976 with only one difference. This difference was that the side panels on the bike were now black and the handle bars were created with a little more angle for more stability while driving. Soon after the Suzuki 185 A was released, the GT185 B made its way onto dealerships lots in 1977 with an entirely new look and even more chrome that will be able to easily catch the attention of other motorists and pedestrians.

The last model that was produced in the GT185 series was more like a cousin than an actual remake. This model is the smoothest of them all. The Suzuki GT185 came with alloy wheels and made its appearance in 1978. The Japanese models actually have different specifications the the models sold in Europe or America, but they’re all seen with the same perspective.

A very clever design: the Honda Super Cub was the combination of a moped and a scooter. It attracted many people due to its friendly and non intimidating look. People who before had felt threatened by bigger motorcycles, approached and adopted this model very quickly.

It was a versatile motorcycle and had enough power to carry two passengers or a passenger with luggage. Its large diameter tires and wide seats made the ride almost as comfortable as the touring bikes from that time.

>> Honda 50cc Cub and Super Cub FACTS

- In 1952 Honda built 7000 units of this bike which represented the 70% of the entire production of Japanese motorcycles for that year.

- Thanks to this model Honda Motorcycles were absolute market leaders during 1953 and 1954.

It’s worth mentioning that those were very competitive days. There were many manufacturers competing for a very fast growing and demanding market.

- The Honda Super Cub was the equivalent of the Ford T or the Volkswagen Beetle for automobiles. As of 1992 Honda Motorcycles had built 20 million of these machines.

- The Honda 50cc Super Cub was exported to 120 countries.

As the Volkswagen Beetle, the Honda Super Cub didn’t change much through time. Just take a look at the technical data below:

1959 Honda Super Cub Specifications

-> Four stroke horizontal engine.
-> 49 cc of displacement
-> Three speed semi-automatic gearbox.
-> U-shaped frame in stamped steel.
-> Weight: 155 lbs. (70 kg.)
-> Speed: 35 mph (57 kph)

1992 Honda Super Cub Specifications

-> Four stroke horizontal engine.
-> 49 cc of displacement
-> Three speed semi-automatic gearbox.
-> U-shaped frame in stamped steel.
-> *Weight: 122 lbs. (55 kg.)
-> *Speed: 50 mph (80 kph)

First seen in 1958, the Honda C50 Super Cub is still in production today, easily making it the world’s most popular motorcycle. Of course, many changes to the basic specifications were made in the five decades, but the basic appearance and design has remained true to the very first 1958 C50. A very small vehicle, it was powered by a tiny 49cc engine that produced barely 4.5 hp. When Honda first began to export the Super Cub in 1959, they faced an uphill challenge against the much bigger British motorcycles. With the slogan You Meet The Nicest People On A Honda, they managed to find acceptance from people looking for a decent ride that came with a clean reputation.

Right from the start, the design of the Honda C50 made it stand out, looking colourful and petite next to the larger chromed motorcycles. While other smaller motorcycles used two stroke engines, Honda introduced a four stroke engine in the C50, increasing RPM to squeeze out additional power and improved fuel efficiency in excess of 300 mpg. Weighing just 170 pounds, this tiny bike has a simple three speed transmission, making it easy to learn and ride at any age. The Honda C50 also had a large wheelbase that made it a stable ride, even if the top speed was not much above 50 mph.

The first major upgrade took place in 1967, when Honda tweaked the engine to deliver a slightly better 4.9 hp by using a new SOHC 49cc engine. In this year, the C70 and C90 bikes were also introduced. These were basically the same Honda Super Cub design, but with larger engine displacements. Since then, Honda has continued to improve on the C50, with minor cosmetic changes and new features such as CDI ignition and electric start (select models).

Today, the Honda C50 remains a very popular compact motorcycle for short commutes in crowded cities and towns. In fact, sales in Japan have been improving, with the latest C50 models providing an even better ratio of power to fuel efficiency. For many young riders, it is the ideal choice for a basic run-around and fun ride. Motorcycle enthusiasts also love collecting older Super Cubs, especially since there is a large choice of variants such as the Baby Cub, the Press Cub and the Street Cub. If you take care to use genuine spare parts, you can keep any Honda C50 model running in perfect condition, joining the 60 million other Super Cubs on the world’s roads.

The month of May is a beautiful time of year to get out and start riding. This month represents new seasons, new bikers and a month of safety. When you ride always be sure to be aware of your surroundings. Carelessly riding a motorcycle can lead from minor mishaps to devastating fatalities. The consequences of an unaware mind can have many future repercussions. Educating yourself in order to gain further safety measures is a wonderful way to stay safe on the road.

From beginner riders to experienced, safety needs to be known. Catching up on some education when it comes to motorcycles can keep both you and your bike out of harms way. There are some questions you must ask yourself before riding each and every time. When it comes to the month of May, motorcycle safety is on every riders mind. This is an awareness that should catch world wide attention throughout every year in every state.

The best way to stay safe on a bike is through the tires. Checking the owners manual for the proper specifications is a must when filling tires. Experienced riders can usually tell a difference while riding if their tires have to much or to little air. Double checking the specifications is a smart move no matter which class of biker you consider yourself to be. Taking the precaution can possibly save you from gaining injury.

Checking your brakes on a regular basis is a must when it comes to proper safety. Have you been hearing any strange noises when you pull the brake? Brakes can easily wear down through time and heavy usage. If you can’t tell if your brakes are fine, looking for a reputable motorcycle repair shop may be a great option. Just be aware of people trying to swindle a little extra cash for a problem that may not exist.

Checking all the extras such as cable, chains and lights can provide extra safety when taking your motorcycle out on the road. The chain should be lubricated to avoid both rust and damage to your bike. Cables and lights are obvious, but making a routine out of checking parts such as this will greatly benefit a biker. The more precautions a biker takes into consideration, the greater chance of staying safe rises as well.

Do you have the proper equipment to stay safe during the month of May and beyond? Motorcycle riders should always keep a helmet, glasses, shoes and riding clothes on them during long trips. This preparation will help you avoid major complications if an accident does occur. Staying educated on your motorcycle safety needs is a must with all the crazy drivers on the road today.

Staying safe while riding throughout May and beyond is the goal for any biker in their right mind. Every time you ride be sure to use your full attention to help avoid any accidents that may present themselves. Now is the best time for you to get involved with safety when it comes to riding motorcycles in your area.