ROAD NEWS
NORTON’ S MANX RETURNS
The first of six new models being released by the reinvented brand, the Manx R is a no-holds-barred entry into the bar-brawl that is the ultra-powerful, open capacity street class. Bristling with the best components and technology, the new Manx R stands out from the crowd with clean lines, zero styling gimmicks and instead offers pure beauty and just a hint at what is on offer should you throw a leg over the stunning machine. No wings, foils or team graphics, the clean skin Manx R doffs its cap to the legends past who earned their reputation with deeds alone. A brand new 72-degree V4 with 1200cc of get up and go is at the core of the new British superbike. Topped off with carbon fibre panels and wheels, Brembo’ s new Hypure brakes, a single-sided swingarm and the very latest electronics, it is a very special machine no matter which angle you observe it from. Rather than building a WSBK-esque replica, the boffins have steered more towards events like the IOMTT for cues on ergonomics, durability and a rider-centric approach to the issue of what riders demand but do not always receive. Despite no flashy aero bolt-ons, the Norton Manx R sure has presence. A solid, staunch
attitude that its covered-in-glory ancestor had is still very much carved into its DNA. Pricing here is yet to be announced – and it will be a premium deposit for a premium bike but, that aside, isn’ t it just stunning? Backing up its good looks is 206hp at a conservative but real world 11,500rpm and 130Nm of torque at an even more useful 9000rpm. The tuning is the result of analysing data from riders to see what is actually desired on the road, not just on a spec sheet. Naturally, a two-way quickshifter is standard, as are five modes to tweak to optimise your new Manx R. Marzocchi managed active suspension is state of the art and manages the fully adjustable units in real time for riding and roading conditions. As for connectivity, well, it is constantly working with you to set things for your ride and you can see and review every detail of your ride – even watch it with a connected GoPro should you so desire. Slope sensitive, lean angle sensitive, it does it all. It even has optimal gear shift suggestions. Dynamic brake lights, multimedia, remote immobilisation and burglar alerts, the new Norton Manx R takes connectivity and intuition to the next level. Are you ready?
12 KIWI RIDER