Ever since the unfortunate demise of Buell - when the penny-pinching,
floundering idiots at Harley-Davidson decided to do away with
their only innovative division - the American-made sportsbike
scene has been rather empty - aside from the Fischer MRX 650, which has a Korean engine.
Now Erik Buell is back with a brand new roadbike based on the
1190RR track machine from Eric Buell Racing.
The EBR 1190RS features an array of top-shelf materials and
components, there's also carbon-fiber bodywork, magnesium wheels,
and a light alloy chassis with integral fuel cell.
Powering the EBR 1190RS is a 1,190cc v-twin engine which is
a modified version of the Rotax engines found in the older 1125
models. The racing version of the 1190RS makes 185 horsepower
at the rear wheel, so the 1190RS should produce a little less
than that number - details haven't yet been released. The engine
itself uses the same camshafts as the 1125RR race bike, and
it also features titanium valves. Overall the engine is essentially
a de-tuned racing engine - but it can be quickly and easily
upgraded if you want to take it on the track.
Power is transmitted through a 6-speed transmission and chain
final-drive.
Adjustable Ohlins suspension is fitted front and rear, and an
AiM Sports digital instrument gauge provides the rider with
all the necessary information and also a data-logging function.
The exclusivity of the 1190RS, and all the high-tech components
and materials doesn't come cheap however. Around $40,000 is
the expected asking price.
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