On paper, this factory supermotard doesn't measure up. It weighs as much as Yamaha's R1 with less than a third of the power. A seemingly weedy 48-hp Single pulling 381 lbs. (dry weight) of motorcycle around is never going to set the world on fire. But the XT660X sparks enthusiasm after just a few minutes in the saddle. It's all to do with the fun factor and being able to ride at full throttle anywhere.

The ZX-6RR is fed by an advanced fuel injection system that utilizes large-bore 38mm throttle bodies with new twin injectors – one located near the airbox and the other at the intake manifold. A 32-bit high-speed microprocessor-controls timing and is ultra-responsive to engine needs. The integrated system helps ensure smooth linear power characteristics and high engine output and with low emissions.

KTM have two alternatives in the 950 Adventure line-up. The standard silver model and the orange 'S' model. Ground clearance is a generous 281mm for the standard 'low-seat' model, or a full 316mm on the taller 'S' version.

But ‘low-seat’ is something of a misnomer in this case as it is actually a quite high 880mm, on the tall version it is a quite extreme 915mm. At 179cm tall I was tip-toeing it on the shorter version while at traffic lights, if you are much shorter than me, you may find things a little difficult. No doubt many will opt for the taller version but the standard model isn't exactly lacking in ground clearance, I was able to negotiate some logs and plenty of very rough terrain without bottoming the machine.

The EV Touring isn't going to set any records for mechanical perfection or objective motorcycle performance, but it has a certain attractiveness or charm that stems from its design and performance, nonetheless. It is also a machine that has a devoted, and even fanatical, following.

Both the Rockster and Ballabio facing off in this shootout can be lumped into the nakedbike category. They aren’t stripped down sportbikes, but rather are standards that have been modified to look more menacing than their performance would seem to allow.

Despite their apparent dissimilarities, the Italian Guzzi and the German BMW share many of the same qualities. Both use non-overhead-cam, air-cooled twin-cylinder motors mounted across the frame making around 75 horsepower, and both are quirky shaft-driven European machines with the same 120/70-17 and 180/55-17 tires. Each can be purchased for about $11,000.

With 996cc, and a six-speed transmission, the Super Hawk is meant to have ample torque available for any circumstance. Although the bore and stroke of the engine is substantially over-square (large bore and short stroke), a low 9.4-to-1 compression ratio, and softish cams help create a broad, smooth power band intended for spirited street riding, but not racing (the Honda racing v-twin was later introduced as the RC51 -- with a different motor).

Whilst you're looking, have a goosey goose at the radiator, the thing is as tall as it is wide. Heat is a power sapper, and being 40% bigger than the 954's, this radiator offers a cool hand, under racing duress. Take a look too, at the side-by-side view of the CBR and the RC211V those aren't distance cousins, they are blood related and all this for just under $11K.

The Bandit is a great looking machine that has just the right amount of chrome to set it off. The shiny bits seem to be reasonably good quality considering the low purchase price.

Suzuki enjoys a truly awesome reputation for reliability with the 1200 Bandit. Many of the worlds leading motorcycle stuntmen choose them as their mount due to their incredible ability to handle quite extreme levels of abuse.