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New concepts for the 50 hp class

From honest man to arsonist

While high-priced motorcycles come with a breathtaking design, the manufacturers are sticking to the staid 08/15 outfit for entry-level bikes. MOTORRAD makes a few suggestions for the CB 500 and the like.

The three test mopeds lean casually on the side stand, the warm rays of the sun announce spring. Break. Time for a little snack in between, a few minutes of rest, just sit on the pile of wood with the still snow-white Alps in view. And time to think about why manufacturers have been putting their entry-level machines in their shop windows almost unchanged over the years. Sometimes a new color or small retouching of the design, but otherwise: everything is the same. Clearly, the low price does not allow you to put a new motorcycle on its wheels every two years. Profitability is a must.
But yawning boredom among customers can quickly thwart profitability. Especially since one thing is clear: motorcycling is first and foremost a passion, has little to do with common sense and profitability. That’s why MOTORRAD and designer Stefan Kraft have put together a few ideas with the aim of not fundamentally changing the technical basis of all three machines. Engine, frame, equipment, everything remains? only the surrounding area is completely redrawn. The CB 450 from 1965 is the inspiration for Honda’s CB 500 and is refined with a scrambler exhaust system. Sure, the five-spoke cast wheels would be a complete break in style, wire-spoke wheels are a must. And chrome fenders. But as the name suggests, made of sheet metal, not plastic.
There is actually only one solution for the small Suzuki: Unmistakably marked in the aggressive GSX-R 1000 design, the 500 is intended to make the young 34-PS generation desirable. The difference: half-clad, the beautifully ribbed engine still transports a good deal of technology and lightness. Despite the clearly signaled sportiness, the stubs mounted above the bridges and a low seating position ensure that motorcycle novices are enthusiastic from the start – provided that the impeccable handling of the current GS 500 is eliminated during the renovation.
Green, trimmed for street fighters, the Kawasaki Twister is attracting customers. With a tiny windshield, front spoiler and slim rear apron, the little one is looking for Kawasaki the logical connection to the in-house image of the Greens. Cheeky, quick, green. After all, the newcomer should remain loyal to the brand after the 34 HP phase and trade in the green Twister for large guns with a similarly striking appearance. Because one thing has to be clear to the manufacturers and importers: You have to develop new customers, new buyers, new motorcycle enthusiasts. With today’s multitude of opportunities to kill free time, you can no longer lure people in front of the stove with honest home-style cooking. Or have you already spotted the practical three-speed Dutch bike with hub cleaner and chain guard in the display at the nice bicycle dealer around the corner?

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