non-threatening and ... just right . Gosh , I did not even know what mode the RS was in at that point , but it sure felt great . Later on I found the modes are – Rain , Road , Sport , Track and Rider configuration . The mode selection is via a bar-mounted button and joystick , all displayed on the five-inch TFT colour screen . Cruise control is also a feature . I spent most of my time in Sport mode and was totally happy with it for road work . Not many engines match big power with such intuitive ease of use and if it ’ s your first time on a powerful bike , just select Rain mode until you feel comfortable fraternising with 177 ponies . Maintenance shouldn ’ t be too pricey with a decent 16,000km between service intervals . Of course , all the usual electronic safety aids are in full force to manage overt rider exuberance . Both lean angle ABS and traction control that is adjustable for intervention levels should allow enough options for the majority of riders . Both bikes sport very nice looking single-sided swingarms and superb twin 320mm Stylema Bembo brakes up front and are adjustable for both span and ratio strength – this is very cool . The ratio is adjusted from 19 to 21 ( which relates to the piston and bore size mm of the master cylinder ) and is an indication of braking force . As delivered , they were set at 19 which offers excellent feel , more than enough stopping power and was ideal for general road use . Flick the adjuster up to 21 and the braking force jumps significantly . For example , on a nice grippy surface at 90km / h , a firm pull on the lever results in the ABS intervening ... the tyre was locking up and stopping feel was intense . This setting is probably best reserved for the track , but no doubt if you want ultra-powerful brakes , 21 is the setting for you . I would stick with 19 for most riding . But the up-shot is , these topof-the-range stoppers are bloody awesome .
WHAT ’ S NOT Ohlins USD forks and shocks come on both bikes . The shocks are mounted on a single sided swingarm via a rising rate linkage . But , this is where things start to be different , apart
44 KIWI RIDER