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The base model Benelli Tornado has a
lot going for it – a wide spread of power, plenty of feel
from the brakes, compliant suspension, a gorgeous exhaust
note and looks to die for. But as I cast an eye over this
baby, with its black anodised frame, up-spec running gear
and carbon-fibre goodies, I can see that the RS is an
Italian masterpiece that has been taken to a whole new
level.
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For me there hasn’t been one disappointing
Fireblade. All of them have been cutting edge motorcycles.
All of them have had brilliant road and track manners
and, more importantly, all of them have had that trademark
Honda feel of complete control.
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As I roll
out of Ducati’s driveway and point the Monster towards the
city skyline I start conjuring up images in my mind of outrageously
long stand up wheelies, massive endos and huge rolling burnouts.
Yep. You guessed it. I’m pulling pathetic first gear monos
off the lights again. But I’m doing it easily – so that’s
something. |
I didn’t have time to study the fine curves
of the F4 1000 S before I jumped on that day. I’d been
lapping the track all morning and I was already pumped.
I didn’t even cast an eye over the bike. I just hopped
on and went for it, aggressively twisting the throttle
and squeezing those brakes as hard as I could. I thought
the MV was fast, real fast. And I loved the brakes and
the feel from the front end. Side-grip from the Pirelli
Diablo’s was great, too, and the torque.
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Riding
the previous R6 was one of the highlights of my year in
2004. I loved the screamer of an engine, the top-end rush
and the drive off turns if the revs were right. I found
the storage under the seat helpful more than once and I
reckon the bike was simply stunning to look at. |
You’re the first journo to ride this bike,
mate, but there’s a catch. I’m coming with you on another
one. Be at my pad tomorrow at 9:00am sharp. You lead the
way.”
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Five 600s, fresh rubber, new kneesliders
and 48-hours away from the rest of the ‘real’ world with
only a racetrack and a mountain full of corners to consider.
Squeeze in an overnight stay in a great pub, a couple
of games of stick and a big steak and you have motorcycling
Nirvana. All at our usual Rapid pace, of course…
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© 2008 WWW.RAPIDBIKES.COM.AU |
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