So many new 2022 models were introduced at EICMA that we have decided to split this dossier into two parts.
We start with the small and mid-sized engines (from 125 to 800 cc), while the second “episode”, dedicated to the kings of long distances, the maxi-enduro and gran turismo bikes over 1,000 cc, will be published on the portal soon.
The Small and Mid-sized
APRILIA Tuareg 660
The latest model to be added to the Aprilia 660 platform. Multi-purpose, as the manufacturer calls it, the Tuareg promises riding enjoyment on and off-road, whether seated or standing, and is truly ready for adventure. This, thanks to a meticulous setting that involves the suspension and the stiffness of the brand-new composite frame. Its twin engine offers more drive at low and medium revs. The tank holds 18 litres of fuel. This new enduro road bike is available in three colours.
BENELLI TRK800 Adventure
The Italian-Chinese brand is riding a wave and heads into the new year with an ace up its sleeve — a new “tourer” with everything it needs to find its place in the sun. Comfortable, protective and technically equipped, the TRK800 takes on the style of the 502 but further elevates its adventurous vocation, thanks also to the performance guaranteed by the 754 cc parallel twin. Standout elements include the adjustable Marzocchi fork and rear shock, the 19” front wheel, the double LED headlight, the aggressive front mudguard and the 7” TFT dashboard display.
CF MOTO 800MT and 700 CL-X ADV
A fixed presence at EICMA with its ATVs, CF MOTO used the latest edition to introduce a “two-wheel” range to the public for the first time. We would like to talk about two new products, starting with the 800MT, the touring model, powered by a 799 cc twin (that of the KTM 790) and complete with a 19” front wheel, spoked rims and an impressive electronics package (that includes accelerator and cornering traction control). Let’s not forget about the 7” TFT display. Heated handlebars and tyre pressure sensors are also standard features of the touring model. The other motorcycle displayed at the booth, for which we don’t yet have official images, is the 700 CL-X ADV, a model designed for road/off-road touring and powered by a Kawasaki-derived engine. It comes complete with a high handlebar and mudguard, a very comfortable seat, spoked wheels, knobby tyres, a transparent top fairing, side bags, LED lights and a digital dashboard.
FANTIC Caballero 500 Explorer
The elegant new version of this scrambler is still perfect on the dirt, but compared to the 500 Rally, it has a real touring attitude. The slightly vintage look is pleasing and quite obvious here, as are the attention to detail and the paint job. Note the handlebar with chest protection, the long-travel suspension, with adjustable compression and pre-load, the aluminium steering plates, the bronze/white fuel tank, the grilles on the radiator and headlight, the mudguard and the high exhausts. It has Michelin Anakee Wild knobby tyres. The soft bags and rack come as standard, and the seat height doesn’t lie at 860 mm.
KAWASAKI Versys 650
This crossover has a new look,gaining more contemporary lines and more technology with the 2022 model. In other words, the mid-sized Versys moves ever closer to its 1000 cc counterpart. It features updated radiator ducts, an adjustable four-position windscreen, LED lights and an engine now equipped with KTRC traction control. The instrumentation benefits from a 4.3” colour TFT display. Its long-distance vocation is also confirmed with a fuel tank capacity of 21 litres.
KL Raticosa 500X
The brand grabbed the attention of the public and press alike with a mid-sized adventure bike that is well-appointed and complete (a trend that is set to continue? Perhaps big engines and 100 or more horsepower are not so important when it comes to touring.) and flaunts a look that tells of the balance between weight and performance. Complete with 19” and 17” wheels, spoked rims and slightly knobby tyres. The long travel (Kayaba) suspension and brakes (three discs with petal profile) also make an impact. It is powered by the tried and tested 471 cc parallel twin that delivers 48 hp and works according to two Power Modes. Also of note are its full LED lights and multi-function LCD display. Standard equipment includes the engine guard, hand guards, centre stand and light alloy sump guard.
Its name pays tribute to a mountain pass between Bologna and Florence.
KTM 390 Adventure
The look is similar to that of its bigger siblings, but with the 2022 version of this much-loved model, the manufacturer can count on technical and aesthetic expedients that don’t distort and ensure it remains top of the list for those seeking a small/medium-sized engine suitable for touring. A new electronics feature (two Riding Modes) means that the traction control keeps track of the lean angle during off-road riding. The wheels have cast aluminium five-spoke split rims. The engine and suspension remain unchanged, while the tank holds 14.5 litres of fuel, for a range of almost 400 km.
KYMCO AK550 ST
Two scooters also earned a place in this line-up, and the first is the 2022 Sport Touring version of the AK550. The ST is aimed at peoples who want to reach distant destinations in maximum comfort and without compromising when it comes to sports riding. It shares an engine and chassis with the AK550 but offers a more protective livery, with a large shield and windscreen. The digital instrumentation is also new, as is the belt used for the final drive, which is now quieter. Also worth a mention is the ETS accelerator that now manages the TCS too. After climbing aboard this new Kymco version, the rider sets off by pressing the smart key and can even take advantage of cruise control while travelling.
MOTRON X-Nord 400
In 2022, the small/medium-sized engine segment also gains this enduro touring bike produced by the revived Motron, a KRS group brand. Full technical details of this crossover concept, currently in the homologation phase, are not yet available. Its trellis frame, USD fork, wheels for road and light off-road use, and comfortable seat all make an impact. The engine is a liquid-cooled 43 hp twin.
RIEJU Aventura 125
The Spanish manufacturer now offers a 125 cc trail bike that is perfect for 16-year-olds, combining everyday use with clear touring attitude. Complete with a liquid-cooled 15 hp single-cylinder engine, six-speed gearbox, USD fork, knobby tyres, LED lights and a three-disc braking system. Perfect for those first out-of-town trips and easy to ride, it stands out for its front end with double vertical headlight. Standard equipment includes a rack, top fairing, hand guards and sump guard.
SYM Husky ADV
The second “adventure scooter” on our list. Its profile is just one of the details that highlight its vocation, reminiscent of the Honda X-ADV, the category’s flagship model. And then there are technical elements like the raised handlebar, enduro-style and plastic-free, the side-mounted rear single shock, the 13” wheels with slightly knobby tyres, excellent fuel tank capacity (15 litres) and significant room under the seat. Its “large” dimensions jar a little with its 150 cc engine and 14.7 hp. The new anti-lift (A.L.E.H.) system is interesting and makes the vehicle more stable. Its colour TFT display and LED light set are also a source of pride.
VOGE 300 GY Rally
The premium brand from Chinese giant Loncin introduced this enduro road bike at the Milan exhibition, its characteristics making it ideal for “mixed” trips with challenging sections. Its 21” and 18” wheels with spoked rims and knobby tyres only confirm this. The USD fork and rear shock (mounted on an oscillating aluminium swing-arm) help to maintain a ground clearance of 280 mm. This VOGE comes complete with LED lights, a digital display, windscreen and engine guard. Its dry weight comes in at under 140 kg, while the 292 cc engine delivers 29 hp and is equipped with Bosch electronic injection.
YAMAHA Ténéré 700 Rally Edition
A tribute to the motorcycle that made Rally Raids accessible and boosted our desire to explore the world on two wheels. Following the 2019 update, which led to the best-selling 700, Yamaha is now playing with the colour range and introducing the Rally Edition, an iconic version that highlights its history (now 40 years old, something to which few motorcycles can aspire) with its Heritage White livery, red Speed Block graphics, two-colour seat and gold coloured rims! The standard equipment includes a number of original accessories, including the tailpipe, designed for Yamaha by Akrapovic.
