THE SKINNY Twenty odd years ago a 400cc bike with power modes, traction control, ABS brakes, LED lighting and flash TFT dashes with full instrumentation would have seemed a dream, and maybe a bit unnecessary too – but here we are. This is the direction the market is taking through a mix of legislation and feature-creep. Personally, I’ m torn. While I’ m sure many people love the extra bang for buck all these things provide, I’ m not convinced the added weight and complexity improves rider joy, safety or ease of use in this power range. The obvious plus is it’ s there if you want it.
44 KIWI RIDER