BMW’s new K1300 Series introduces significant changes and upgrades over the K 1200 to provide more power and in particular more usable power. This is achieved via a number of engine upgrades such as a revised air intake, combustion chamber, engine management and exhaust system taking the engine capacity to 1293cc. The Drivetrain also receives the option of Gearshift Assistance for shifting up without the slightest interruption of power. In terms of the chassis, this too has undergone changes with the Duolever lower trailing arm now made out of alloy, the introduction of the new Electronically Adjustable Suspension II (ESA) and anti vibration handlebars provide optimised handling. Get your hands on a new K1300 from $A22,700 for the R model, available in dealers now.

Eight of the best: BMW has outsuperbiked the Japanese with their S1000R.Even though we haven't had the chance to ride one yet it leads our picks of the eight best bikes of 2009. Also included is BMW's F800R; the Ducati Monster 1100; Suzuki GSXR750 and Gladius; Honda's DN01; Yamaha's XVS950A and Triumph's soon to be released Thunderbird. See our profiles in Issue 16.

Flying colours: Stand out with the fourth generation CBR600RR which is now available in an exhilarating new graphite black/bright lime green metallic colour. However, its not only the colour that’s new, improvements to the piston, cylinder head and muffler have been made to increase the torque delivery in the range of revs between 8000-12000 rpm. This all-important extra "mid-range" gives improved drive out of corners both on track and on the road, increasing the flexibility of the motor and making the CBR600RR both faster and easier to ride. The 2009 CBR600RR retails for $15,990 and $16,990 for the e-CABS model.

Each year a person who has made an invaluable contribution to the world of motorcycling is selected to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Legend of the Motorcycle Concours d’Elegance. The distinguished trophy presented to this recipient is the signature God of Speed™ bronze sculpture. Last year’s recipient was Willie G. Davidson of the eponymous Milwaukee motor company. This year it's Italian legend Giacomo Agostini. Most closely associated with famed Italian super bike MV Agusta, Agostini actually won his first race in 1963 astride a Moto Morini. This win caught the attention of Count Domenico Agusta, founder of MV Agusta, who added young Agostini to his race team that included Mike Hailwood. Ago’s tenure with Count Agusta’s team would result in nearly a decade of successive victories and the cementing of Agostini and MV as one of the greatest racers and machines of all time.
For more information go to: LegendoftheMotorcycle.com