1610 RF final

up by a very good ABS unit. The pair of four-piston radial
calipers clamp 298mm discs on the front, and the single
piston rear employs a 245mm disc.
That engine, oh that damn engine. What a fabulous piece
of engineering it is. It is the best of both worlds – producing
loads of torque with minimal vibration and yet, sings right
up to it’s 11,000rpm red line. It produces great power in
every part of the rev range – it will happily bumble along at
100km/h at 4000rpm in sixth or launch away from the lights
with the front wheel feathering the ground (provided the
traction control is off or on level one).
The assisted slipper clutch also works a treat – there’s
no harm in banging down gears a bit too eagerly in what is
a great gearbox. Every shift felt very positive, and I didn’t
get the slightest hint of any notchiness or false neutrals.
The gear ratios are also set out perfectly, nailing that happy
medium between having a bike that will launch and amble
whenever required.
Probably the best part of this bike though is the price. A
low R159,950 plus on-roads is all it will set you back to take
one of these home, which makes the value for money and
fun ratio astounding.
It’s economical, cheap, comfortable, plenty of modern
electrickery and a stonking motor to boot. It’s got beauty
and brawn in spades and has to be one of the best value for
money motorcycles on the SA market today.
RATINGS: XSR900
Heat 7
Steering 8
Fuel 8
Acceleration 8
Throttle 7
Traffic 8
Servicing 7
Lights 7
Wind 5 (It’s a naked)
New Rider 7
Total: 72/100 (commuter rating)
30 RIDEFAST MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2016