The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison

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The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison
Jahn

The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison

The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison

The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison

The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison

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The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison
Jahn

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Husqvarna Nuda 900 R: To top it all off, it comes with a crisp chassis that also leaves little to be desired. At least not when the Nuda is guided on the short reins over the wide, almost straight and a little getting used to Supermoto handlebars.

The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison
Jahn

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Husqvarna Nuda 900 R: In addition to the exciting engine, the Nuda comes with a fast-moving chassis and brute brakes. Significant compromises have to be made in terms of comfort. There is also no assistance system. The Husky is a bike, not a touring motorcycle.

The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison
Jahn

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The fun bikes of the Alpine Masters 2012: Aprilia Dorsoduro 1200, Husqvarna Nuda 900 R, Kawasaki Versys 1000, KTM 690 Duke.

The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison
Jahn

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Kawasaki Versys 1000: The combination of agile, easy-to-handle 17-inch wheels and wide, high and comfortable touring handlebars is a very special mixture and is formally tailored to the requirements of pass traffic.

The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison
Jahn

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Kawasaki Versys 1000: The enthusiasm for the Kawa is not only due to the small wheels, but also to the fact that Kawasaki hit the bull’s eye with the chassis set-up, at least for these conditions.

The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison
Jahn

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Kawasaki Versys 1000: The big plus of the Versys is their balance. The combination of four-in-line and long-legged chassis works and makes the Kawasaki the winner among fun bikes. There was only criticism of their appearance and bulk.

The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison
Jahn

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The fun bikes of the Alpine Masters 2012: Aprilia Dorsoduro 1200, Husqvarna Nuda 900 R, Kawasaki Versys 1000, KTM 690 Duke.

The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison
Jahn

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KTM 690 Duke: One cylinder, 70 hp, 163 kilograms with a full tank – since the Duke slimmed down in price and arrived in popular areas at 7,495 euros, it has been the unreserved master of omission.

The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison
Jahn

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KTM 690 Duke: On every straight line, no matter how short, the single cylinder rattles, shakes and vibrates in such a way that the driver constantly finds himself looking for the right gear. First and foremost, not to find power (even if the usable speed range is quite narrow due to the concept), but to escape the heavy vibrations.

The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison
Jahn

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KTM 690 Duke: Its playful handling is second to none. But even if her single is more cultured than its predecessor, it remains a bad vibration generator. The seating position is a little too passive, the single-disc brake is just average.

The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison
Jahn

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The fun bikes of the Alpine Masters 2012: Aprilia Dorsoduro 1200, Husqvarna Nuda 900 R, Kawasaki Versys 1000, KTM 690 Duke.

The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison
Jahn

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Aprilia Dorsoduro 1200: Enjoying the exciting V2, relying on assistance systems that are not super-fine but reliably regulating in tingy situations? Actually gladly, but unfortunately the Aprilia reveals in the meandering curves between concept-related weak points also inadequacies that spoil the fun in the long term.

The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison
Jahn

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Aprilia Dorsoduro 1200: With 7.8 liters, the Dorsoduro tips itself into the fat combustion chambers in such a way that after almost 200 kilometers in the Alps, the tank is low.

The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison
Jahn

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Aprilia Dorsoduro 1200: The experience value is extremely high on the Dorsoduro thanks to the active seating position. The V2 is powerful and gritty, and ABS and traction control work well. However, the chassis is not at the high level that Aprilia is used to.

The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison
Jahn

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The fun bikes of the Alpine Masters 2012: Aprilia Dorsoduro 1200, Husqvarna Nuda 900 R, Kawasaki Versys 1000, KTM 690 Duke.

The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison
Jahn

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Husqvarna Nuda 900 R: The in-line two-cylinder is incredibly good here, seems to be born between two turns. Thanks to the 45-degree crank pin offset, it shakes the best sound and fine V2 manners just as easily out of the sleeve as a strong draft (even compared to the much more powerful Aprilia Twin).

motorcycles

The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison

Alpen Masters 2012: fun bikes
The big fun bike test in the Alps

Ain’t it amazing Whenever it’s about fun, it’s also about leaving out. Cylinders, power, weight – less is more. But: does that also apply in the mountains? Four very different concepts on the high-alpine fun test bench.

Peter Mayer, Stefan Kaschel

08/30/2012

Less is more. If this thesis were correct, the winner of the Funbikes would be determined just by looking at the data sheet. One cylinder, 70 hp, 163 kilograms with a full tank – the KTM since then 690 Duke even slimmed down in price and arrived in popular areas with 7,495 euros, she is an unreserved master at omission. And so – so much in advance – also the unrestricted queen when it comes to the free choice of lines in narrow Alpine bends. No one sticks so nimbly into the corner, none can be directed so casually and precisely, no one moves such tight curves.

But of course that alone is not enough. First of all, such a bend is far from reaching the top of the pass, and secondly, a single cylinder does not guarantee that the engine runs smoothly. Not even if KTM with the new Duke with double ignition and a lot of detailed work undertook all sorts of things to give the rough high-performance single (impressive 74 hp on the motorcycle test bench) a minimum of smoothness. And yet: on every straight line, no matter how short, the single cylinder rattles, shakes and vibrates in such a way that the driver constantly finds himself looking for the right gear. Primarily not to find power (even if the usable speed range is quite narrow due to the concept), but to escape the heavy vibrations. In the long run, however, this is a hopeless undertaking.


The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison


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The performance of the four fun bikes in comparison.

So: Friends of well-groomed running culture can confidently leave the Duke out of their high-alpine plans, even if they definitely like the lively chassis and the recently relatively relaxed seating position. For alpine heaters of this color, the extroverted Husqvarna Nuda 900 R or the most powerful of all supermotos, the Aprilia Dorsoduro 1200 in question. One new, the other gently revised, both tailored to the active rider like the KTM. And both are blessed with a cylinder more than the Duke, which makes the matter of the smoothness considerably milder. Above all, the switch to the Husky with the converted BMW engine (it pushes service with less displacement and without crank pin offset, even in the Bavarian 800 models) opens up a new dimension, and not only with regard to the KTM single, its vibrations and torque development (see performance curves), but rather on motorcycle drives in general and the perfect Alpen engine in particular.

To cut a long story short: this in-line two-cylinder is incredibly good here, seems to have been born between two hairpin bends. Thanks to the 45-degree crank pin offset, it shakes the best sound and fine V2 manners just as easily out of the sleeve as it does a strong draft (even compared to the much more powerful Aprilia Twin). Accelerates wonderfully smoothly, is perfectly controllable and always delivers precisely the performance that is required, and is almost as economical as the KTM single. To make matters worse, it is in a crisp chassis that also leaves little to be desired. At least not when the Nuda is guided on the short reins over the wide, almost straight and a little getting used to Supermoto handlebars. Braking, killing it with precision, accelerating to the point and then four turns for a hallelujah – that is the world of the wild husky.


The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison


Jahn

The four fun bikes from the front.

But unfortunately also one without a net and a false bottom, because no ABS controls the super-biting Brembo monoblock pliers, no traction control the powerfully pushing V2. And when reassuring driving stability, comfort, weather protection or even a pillion with luggage come into play, the Nuda surrenders completely. It is a racing motorcycle, not a touring motorcycle.

So better on the robust one Aprilia change, which at least has all electronic helpers on board? Enjoy the equally inspiring V2, rely on assistance systems that are not super-fine, but reliably regulating, in tingy situations? Actually gladly, but unfortunately the big wild one from Noale reveals deficiencies up here in the winding curve between concept-related weak points (seating comfort etc., see Husqvarna), which permanently spoil the fun. The most striking: her irrepressible, almost embarrassing thirst. With 7.8 liters, the Dorsoduro tips itself into the fat combustion chambers in such a way that after almost 200 kilometers in the Alps the tide is ebb in the tank. For comparison: the little Duke and the Husky only need a little more than half at the same speed. A real handicap in the French-Italian border area with its more than thin network of petrol stations.

And there is something else. The Aprilians, actually proven specialists when it comes to chassis construction, were a little on the wrong side of the big Dorsoduro even with the latest revision. It has lighter wheels, okay, and the handling is astonishing indeed for a full-blown 1200. However, the unwillingness with which Aprilia reports on road conditions and liability reserves compared to Nuda or Duke, slows down even bold spirits on the high alpine mountain roads.


The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison


Jahn

Kawasaki Versys 1000: The big plus of the Versys is their balance.

If the last one in the quartet remains, the “fat one” Kawasaki Versys 1000. One or the other may ask what is doing in this field of radical designs. But only if he is not familiar with Kawa’s strange mixture of a strong naked bike, a comm or travel enduro and, yes, a bustling curve search engine. The combination of agile, easy-to-handle 17-inch wheels and wide, high and comfortable touring handlebars alone is a very special mixture and is formally tailored to the requirements of pass traffic. No other motorcycle in this class is so easy, so entertaining and at the same time so relaxed and sovereign – yes, almost not in the entire Alpen Masters field.

This is of course not only due to the small wheel size, but above all to the fact that Kawasaki hit the bull’s eye with the chassis set-up, at least for these conditions. Comfortably, but not too softly, the Versys irons even rough roads, but always provides enough feedback to tackle brisk passages. In addition, there are effective brakes (of course with ABS) and a motor (of course with traction control), which pushes gently, but with a lot more force than you would expect given the gentle throttle response and unspectacular power delivery. So conditioned, the Versys follows the riot crowd in front of her playfully and calmly, leaving out any spectacle. But that’s the only shortcoming of a motorcycle that, given its comfort, pillion suitability and long-distance travel affinity, would also have been successful in the adventure group. In the funbike group, she does it better at the end of the day.

Conclusion: Winner Kawasaki Versys 1000
It’s not really fun to look at, the Kawasaki Versys. Especially not in mourning floor brown. But if you go up, you don’t want to go down again so quickly. Its functionality is just fun, its versatility inspires. And makes them a hot contender for the Alpine Masters title. We’ll see!

Aprilia Dorsoduro 1200


The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison


Jahn

Aprilia Dorsoduro 1200: With 7.8 liters, the Dorsoduro tips itself into the fat combustion chambers in such a way that after almost 200 kilometers in the Alps, the tank is low.

Data
2-cylinder, 1197 cm³, 131 hp, 115 Nm, 227 kg, payload 173 kg, ABS, traction control, 12,703 euros

Readings
Test consumption passes: 7.8 l / 100 km
Theor. Range of passes: 193 km
Passing 50-100 km / h at 2700 m above sea level: 7.0 s
Thrust in second gear 25-75 km / h: 5.0 s
Braking distance downhill: 24.4 m

plus
The powerful and robust V2 is a real number and has a decisive influence on the character of this motorcycle. ABS and traction control work well, the experience value on the Dorsoduro is also extremely high thanks to the active seating position.

minus
Despite the revision, the chassis is not at the high level that Aprilia is used to; the Dorsoduro has some catching up to do in terms of feedback and accuracy. In addition, she drinks like a hole.

Husqvarna Nuda 900 R


The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison


Jahn

Husqvarna Nuda 900 R: The in-line two-cylinder is incredibly good here, seems to be born between two turns.

Data
2-cylinder, 898 cm³, 105 hp, 98 Nm, 197 kg, payload 194 kg, 11590 euros

Readings
Test consumption passes: 4.3 l / 100 km
Theor. Range of passes: 303 km
Thrust 50-100 km / h at 2700 m above sea level: 6.6 s
Thrust in second gear 25-75 km / h: 4.8 s
Braking distance downhill: 29.5 m

plus
What an engine! If there was still a need to prove that no more than around 100 hp is necessary in the Alps – here it is. We are happy to take the fact that there is also a nimble chassis and brute brakes with us – and romp up and down the passes all day long.

minus
No comfort, no ABS, no traction control, handlebars that take getting used to – in this order, for example. The Husky is for activists, not for those seeking relaxation. And nothing for the long journey.

Kawasaki Versys 1000 (winner)


The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison


Jahn

Kawasaki Versys 1000: The enthusiasm for the Kawa is not only due to the small wheels, but also to the fact that Kawasaki hit the bull’s eye with the chassis set-up, at least for these conditions.

Data
4-cylinder, 1043 cm³, 118 hp, 102 Nm, 241 kg, payload 218 kg, ABS, traction control, 11,995 euros

Readings
Test consumption passes: 5.4 l / 100 km
Theor. Range of passes: 389 km
Passing 50-100 km / h at 2700 m above sea level: 8.5 s
Pulling speed in second gear 25-75 km / h: 4.7 s
Braking distance downhill: 26.7 m

plus
Clearly their balance. The Versys feels at home everywhere, even if it looks like it is from another planet. Anyone who wants to travel to the Alps is cordially invited. If you want alpine grass, you are not wrong either. The combination of row four and high-legged chassis works.

minus
Their appearance and bulk – at least from a fun bike perspective. And when fully loaded, it touches down relatively early. That can’t happen to the others. Mainly because they will probably never be fully loaded.

KTM 690 Duke


The funbikes of the Alpen-Masters 2012 in comparison


Jahn

KTM 690 Duke: One cylinder, 70 hp, 163 kilograms with a full tank – since the Duke slimmed down in price and arrived in popular areas at 7,495 euros, it has been the unreserved master of omission.

Data
1-cylinder, 690 cm³, 70 HP, 70 Nm, 163 kg, payload 187 kg, ABS, 7495 euros

Readings
Test consumption passes: 4.0 l / 100 km
Theor. Range of passes: 346 km
Passage 50-100 km / h at 2700 m above sea level: 10.2 s
Pulling speed in second gear 25-75 km / h: 6.8 s
Braking distance downhill: 27.5 m

plus
Your playful handling that is second to none. And a chassis that is finely balanced with reasonable residual comfort. And her underdog image, with which she drives some big guys on the ears. And their low price.

minus
Her single is more cultivated than its predecessor, but still a nasty vibration generator. The seating position is a little too passive, the single-disc brake is just average.

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