This second review completes the 2024 motorcycles models presented by their manufacturers to trade publications. There are lots of new arrivals, all worth taking a look at.
ROYAL ENFIELD
450 HIMALAYAN
This medium-sized Adventure bike has received plenty of praise, which is why the 2024 version presented at EICMA was so highly anticipated. The brand has undoubtedly done a good job, making the motorcycle more high-tech and enabling it to tackle any type of road without compromising on ease of riding. The saddle can now be adjusted to 825 or 845 mm from the ground.
The new liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine (a first for the brand) is much more powerful: increasing from 24 to 40 in horsepower, and from 411 to 452 cc, it’s powered by a ride-by-wire throttle body. The chassis consists of 21” and 17” spoked wheels, a new steel frame with a double-sided swingarm, and greater suspension travel (200 mm for the Showa inverted forks and 180 mm for the monoshock). Riding range has also grown, thanks to the two extra litres of fuel that can fit in the tank (17). The motorcycle weighs 196 kg.
Also notable: the two maps, adjustable ABS, full-LED lights and circular TFT display. Available in five colours, and with a good number of optional accessories.
It’s a little motorcycle… destined for big adventures!
TRIUMPH
THE TIGER 900 FAMILY
The English brand has been hard at work on this model, producing 3 versions and giving it an in-line three-cylinder engine (+13 %) with reduced consumption (-9%) plus a completely new exhaust system. A lot of changes have been made: revamped aesthetics; more dynamic shapes; new instrumentation design; an adjustable windscreen; and a more comfortable ride thanks to a saddle height that can be adjusted by 20 mm and handlebars with damped vibrations.
The size of the TFT display remains 7” and allows more interaction. For safety, there’s a combined front and rear braking system.
Components are by Brembo, and all Tigers feature Stylema monobloc callipers at the front. Cornering ABS and traction control have been optimised. The lighting system is full-LED, and all Tiger 900s have a 20-litre tank.
The three versions are called 900 GT, GT PRO and RALLY PRO, and like every maxi enduro family, they are intended for use in road touring or lighter off-roading. Each one boasts an upgrade in service of its use type, like the heated seats on the two PRO models.
For the RALLY PRO, Triumph has tweaked the posture to improve the riding experience both sitting and standing (the handlebar is 15 mm closer to the rider). Also on this version are tyre pressure sensors, the additional spotlights, and Showa suspensions (fully adjustable fork) with 240 and 230 mm of travel. It has 21” and 17” wheels, six riding modes with ABS (disabled when Offroad Pro mode is selected), and Shift Assist as standard.
The 900 GT is the version most suitable for roads. It has Marzocchi suspensions, with 180 mm of travel at the front and 170 mm at the rear. Marzocchi has also supplied the suspensions for the GT PRO (the rear suspension is electronically adjustable). Another difference is the wheels, which are made from light alloy on the two GT models.
Triumph has chosen three colour schemes for each version. Weights range from 205.5 to 214.4 kg.
Interestingly, the optional accessories can be used to kit them out according to different themes: Performance, Protection, Trekker and Expedition.
SUZUKI
GSX-S 1000 GX
New from the brand for 2024, this GSX-R made its trade fair début with the GX code. It’s obvious at a glance that it belongs to the segment of maxi-crossovers designed for high-speed road touring, along with the 1000 ranges from BMW, Kawasaki, Honda, and Yamaha. Confirming this is the K5 engine: the 999 cc, in-line 4-cylinder also found on the 1000 GT, which can turn out 152 horsepower and 106 Nm of torque.
The frame is made from aluminium, with a sport-inspired swingarm. Despite the wide handlebar, the riding position is also somewhere in between.
In terms of advanced technology, this new GX takes first place within the entire Suzuki range. The electronics package is particularly rich, and the use of a six-axis inertial platform assists with Cornering. The crowning jewel is the real-time adaptive electronic suspensions (which are also higher): the fork is SHOWA, the rear monoshock BFRC-lite.
Other technical details: Brembo brake callipers; adjustable fairing; 6.5” TFT; 17” alloy wheels; 19-litre tank capacity; dry weight 232 kg; seat height of 845 mm from the ground.
YAMAHA
Ténéré 700 EXTREME and EXPLORE
Two new versions, dedicated to those who want to travel the world and those seeking fresh experiences on off-road trails.
The EXPLORE boasts a technical set-up designed specifically for globetrotters, including new KYB suspensions: the fork has 43 mm stanchions and 190 mm of travel (compared to the 210 mm of the standard version). The rear monoshock (adjustable remotely) also offers reduced travel, going from 210 to 180 mm. This decision has certain benefits when riding, particularly with a full load, and reduces saddle height (to 860 mm). Also distinguishing this version is the rapid, smoother gearbox; a TFT display that’s more open to connections; 3 ABS settings (active, active at the front only, off); a more protective windscreen; and supports at the side for bags or cases. The 21” and 18” spoked wheels are gold in colour, while the motorcycle itself is sold in just one colour scheme (Tech Kamo).
The EXTREME version for 2024 reveals brand-new graphics and golden wheels, but its real strength lies in the technical choices that have made it more than ready to tackle the off-road world. It also features fully adjustable KYB suspensions; but, unlike the EXPLORE, travel increases by 20 mm compared to the standard Ténéré, front and back. It has a 43 mm fork and piggyback rear shock absorber.
Ground clearance reaches 260 mm, while the seat height is 910 mm. The seat itself is new, more ergonomic and with more padding, for a single person.
Additional features include the three-theme, 5” vertical TFT; enlarged titanium footrests; ABS with three usage modes; a high front mudguard; specific wheels for off-roading; radiator protectors and hand protectors. The Icon Blue colour scheme allows it to really stand out.
BENELLI
BKX 300
From the Benelli Style Centre in Pesaro comes a “mini adventure” that will appeal greatly to younger riders. Lightweight and well-equipped, it’s also capable of tackling off-road trails.
The BKX 300 has a new, 249 cc single-cylinder engine with almost 30 horsepower and torque that reaches 24.5 Nm at 7,000 rpm. The exhaust system is also new, while the double-cradle frame is made from steel tubes.
The technical data sheet indicates the presence of well-damped suspensions: the upside-down fork has 41 mm stanchions and 180 mm of travel; the same value as the rear monoshock, with progressive linkage. Other details: 19” and 17” spoked wheels; a front braking system with a single, 280 mm floating disc and 4-piston calliper; a 240 mm rear disc.
The design includes innovative style choices, first and foremost the highly distinctive LED headlights. Also worth mentioning are the LCD display and 13-litre tank.
A perfect motorcycle for those looking to join the world of adventure bikes.
HONDA
CRF1100L AFRICA TWIN /ES
What can we say about this 2024 update? Let’s start with the torque, which is 7% greater than in the past thanks to the optimisation of the parallel twin’s intake and exhaust systems. Then, we can move on to the fine-tuned geometrics of the frame, the revised front fairing, the SHOWA-EERA electronic suspensions (unique to the ES version), and finally the introduction of 21” and 18” tubeless spoked wheels.
Riding comfort is aided by the new windscreen with 5 adjustable positions, while electronic riding assistance is top-notch thanks to the six-axis IMU. The 6.5” TFT screen allows riders to connect their smartphone, and cruise control has been integrated.
The ES features heated hand grips, a 12-volt outlet, and a DCT automatic gearbox.
HONDA
CRF1100L AFRICA TWIN ADVENTURE SPORTS
Big changes are afoot for this version, which now features a 19” front wheel while the rear wheel remains at 18” (both tubeless): a response to demands from the market, says Honda, to make long journeys easier. This version essentially moves towards the world of road maxi enduros. Even the suspensions have lost some of their travel (20mm), with a resulting decrease in ground clearance and saddle height. However, the premium technical features for which it is already known remain, in addition to further interventions already partly detailed in the data sheet for the off-road version. These include the increase in torque from the engine, a more protective windscreen, the greater connectivity enabled by the TFT, the new fairing and the heated hand grips.
The redesigned, wider saddle is closer to the ground, with a height adjustable from 835 to 855 mm.
Note also the presence of electronically controlled semi-active suspensions with their calibrations linked to the 4 riding modes. There are two 2024 colour schemes.
HONDA
NX500
New for 2024, a mid-capacity crossover with a 19” front wheel, suitable for holders of an A2 licence. It replaces the CB500X, while retaining part of its technical features and dropping 3 kg.
Its Rally-style fairing gives it a bold appearance, and works with the windscreen to offer excellent protection from wind and bad weather. The headlight design is also worth noting. The twin-cylinder that powers it turns out 48 horsepower and 43 Nm torque.
The motorcycle comes as standard with HSTC traction control, new maps, and a custom suspension set-up featuring 41 mm Showa SFF-BP inverted forks and travel of 150 mm and 135 mm at the front and rear respectively. The seat height is 830 mm. The 5” TFT display is also new.
The NX500 has a kerb weight of 196 kg and a 17.5-litre tank (range of almost 500 km).
ZONTES
703F SUPER ADVENTURE / 500-T
Known for its scooter range and smaller motorcycles, this Chinese brand (imported by Betamotor) made the leap into an entirely new segment at EICMA: the maxi segment. It did so with the 703F, currently a prototype but which could arrive at dealerships before the end of 2024, with an attitude clearly cut out for Adventure.
The motorcycle is imposing, with a unique 699 cc, in-line 3-cylinder engine that provides 101 horsepower and a torque of 85 Nm.
The notes mention a elaborated swingarm, tangentially spoked tubeless wheels measuring 21” and 18”, and partners like Brembo and Marzocchi. We have no details on the electronics.
The model is well equipped, including with a series of additional spotlights, an engine guard, hand guards, a TFT screen and supports for cases.
Another new model, again for touring, is the single-cylinder 500-T, powered by a 498 cc twin-shaft engine with a maximum of 51 horsepower / 38 kW (over the A2 licence limit?). The aesthetics and many of the technical solutions take their lead from the 350-T already on the market (including the frame and dual exhaust). The wheels measure 19” and 17”.
The standard features are impressive, including the heated hand grips, electric windscreen and 5” TFT.
MBP
T1002VX
The brand belongs to the Keeway group, with the acronym standing for “Moto Bologna Passione”: an homage to Italy’s motorcycling tradition.
The model we’re interested in has returned to EICMA in its definitive version, and should hit the market during the next year. It’s a maxi enduro with ambitions in the adventure arena, which is obvious at a glance.
There’s no shortage of features for touring, starting with the 22-litre tank which grants a good riding range. Then there’s the wide adjustable windscreen; the strong lines; the 19” and 17” tubeless spoked wheels with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tyres; the 160 mm of travel offered by the adjustable KYB suspensions (inverted fork and Pro-link monoshock).
The T1002VX is powered by a 997 cc, 80° V-twin engine mounted longitudinally; it offers a maximum of 90 horsepower at 7,750 rpm. Its top torque of 95 Nm is obtained at just 5,000 rpm, and it can reach a speed of 200 km/h. Also notable: the twin-beam frame; J.Juan braking system with radial callipers; Bosch ABS; 7” TFT display; full-LED lights; cruise control; seat height at 820 mm from the ground; dry weight of 190 kg.
KTM
390 ADVENTURE
Here’s one for the adventure touring segment under half a litre. It belongs to the Austrian brand’s TRAVEL line, and will certainly make an impact on the market.
The new 2024 version has two new liveries while maintaining such technical features as its excellent weight/power ratio, low centre of gravity and ease of handling.
Its 373 cc engine produces 44 horsepower and 37 Nm (compatible with an A2 licence).
It comes with ABS and Cornering traction control, an OFFROAD mode, adjustable windscreen, footpegs optimised for off-roading, and a rally-style fairing.
The spoked wheels measure 19” and 17” and have air chambers. The adjustable suspensions are by WP. The tank holds 14.5 litres (for a range of around 400 km).
The colour schemes are: grey/white and orange/black. The manufacturer describes the paintwork, which is carried out using advanced techniques for gloss painting and multi-layered graphics, as “almost anti-scratch”.
During 2023, KTM also presented the new versions in the range to the press, including the 890 ADVENTURE R, 890 ADVENTURE RALLY and 1290 SUPER ADVENTURE S and R.
MOTO GUZZI
STELVIO
This crossover, which has been out of production since 2016, rejoins the range after a complete overhaul. Starting with the engine: a 90° transverse V2 Compact Block with 1,042 cc. Available horsepower is 115, while torque reaches 105 Nm.
For bike management, the user can rely on Ride by Wire and 5 riding modes (tourism, rain, street, sport and off-road), which work by intervening on 4 riding parameters.
The kerb weight of the motorcycle is 246 kg. The declared range is 400 km (the tank holds 21 litres of fuel).
Chassis: the frame has also been renewed, with a trellis of steel tubes connected to a single-sided swingarm in aluminium. The cardan has been strengthened. The sophisticated braking system is the same as the Mandello; the ABS can be disabled (only in off-road mode). The tubeless spoked wheels measure 19” and 17”, while the suspensions are powerful and completely adjustable.
Also notable: the brand-new, electronically controlled windscreen and fine-tuned aerodynamics in the wind tunnel.
At present there is just one version (in two colour schemes), but the catalogue of optional accessories makes it possible to customise for comfort, load capacity and riding (for example, the ARAS assistance systems with front and rear radar, the engine guards, tyre pressure sensors and electronic gearbox).
MOTO GUZZI
THE V85 FAMILY
The TT is joined by two versions presented at EICMA: STRADA (basic) and TRAVEL (fitted with touring accessories).
They feature a 90° V-twin with variable valve timing, offering 80 horsepower and 83 Nm torque, most of which is available from 3,500 rpm.
The 2024 V85 is still characterised by round double headlights, though the front end features some new technical details. Everybody is talking about the impressive work the brand has done on aerodynamics, particularly with the development of the new windscreen with its 5 adjustable positions. The electronics have also been improved, and now feature a six-axis inertial platform (an accessory on the STRADA version) and the enabling of ABS Cornering. Rider assistance responds to the available riding modes.
Other innovations include the 5” TFT and more intuitive handlebar controls. The brakes have new Brembo radial callipers (floating at the rear).
The TT remains the most iconic all-terrain bike, with tubeless spoked wheels, on/off tyres, 4 riding modes, and impressive standard accessories like the aluminium sump guard plate, hand guards, aluminium passenger handle, and further adjustments to the suspensions. The frame is painted red.
The STRADA version is best suited to riding on paved surfaces, as it sports alloy wheels (19” and 17” are the measurements for all three versions) with road tyres. It weighs 4 kg less than the TT.
The TRAVEL version is the top of the range, featuring equipment for long journeys, including with two travellers, as standard: a more protective windscreen, brand-new side deflectors, heated handles and seat, rigid side cases, and an extra riding mode (custom).
KOVE
800X ADVENTURE / 800X ADVENTURE PRO / 800X RALLY
After the admiration received by the prototype at EICMA 2022, no fewer than three versions are set to hit the dual market in 2024, all powered by a 799 twin engine also manufactured by KOVE. The Chinese brand indicates 96.5 horsepower at 9,000 rpm and a torque of 80 Nm at 7,500 rpm, with a max speed of over 200 km/h.
The strength of this family lies in weight (or rather, the weight/power ratio), which comes in at around 30 kg lighter than competitors in the same category. To achieve this, KOVE has developed custom components in billet aluminium.
The ADVENTURE is the basic version, though it’s still well equipped to tackle challenging journeys. Adjustable suspensions by the Tu-An brand, both with 210 mm of travel; a braking system produced by Hante (with switchable ABS); and tubeless wheels with spokes, measuring 21” and 18”.
The standard features also include traction control, a slipper clutch, a steering damper, crash bars, a sump guard, full-LED headlights and a vertical TFT dash. The seat is 835 mm from the ground, while the kerb weight is 183 kg.
The PRO has KYB-brand suspensions with even better performances, offering 240 mm of travel and increasing ground clearance to 275 mm.
The braking system is also different (Taisko) and features radial callipers. Other bonuses with this version include the quick shifter and Pirelli Scorpion Rally Str tyres.
The top-of-the-range version is the RALLY, designed for off-roading. The suspensions change again: fully adjustable, they bring the travel to 270 mm and ground clearance to 293 mm. The seat rises to 895 mm from the ground. Also notable: the high front mudguard and the knobby tyres on spoked wheels with air chambers. Tank capacity goes down to 19 litre, with maximum speed also dropping to 185 km/h.
