Motorcycles - a speedy alternative on Korean roads
Agusta’s Brutale 1078RR
Italian motorcycle manufacturer MV Agusta’s Brutale 1078RR, by renowned motorcycle designer Massimo Tamburini, has been enjoying the limelight in Korea with its appearance in popular TV drama “Boys over Flowers.”
With a four-cylinder, 1078 cc engine and maximum 156 horsepower, the motorcycle can reach 267 kilometers (166 miles) per hour. Its “slipper clutch” system allows for a smoother ride, mitigating the impact of engine braking. The brakes, made by Brembo, have strength yet are delicate to the touch. All these elements plus its beautiful frame make the model a show-stopper. Its price is 44 million won ($32,787).
Gilera’s Fuoco 500.
The new BMW K1300 series has an upgraded 1293 cc engine, compared to the K1200 series with 1057 cc. The model’s output is better than many small-sized cars with 173 horsepower. A K1300R model is priced at 24.3 million won.
Honda’s Gold Wing
Honda’s Gold Wing celebrates its 34th anniversary this year. The motorcycle has a six-cylinder, 1832 cc engine and maximum 118 horsepower. However, because it has maximum 17 kilogram-meters torque, the vehicle moves smoothly despite its big, 415 kilogram size. In 2006, it was the first product to showcase a motorcycle air bag. The price is 36 million won.
Harley Davidson’s XR1200 is gaining popularity in Europe for its high-performance and design. The motorcycle is easy to handle and has a 1202 cc engine and 7000 rpm. It costs 18 million won.
By Kim Tae-jin [jainnie@joongang.co.kr]
with the Korea JoongAng Daily
To write comments, please log in to one of the accounts.
Standards Board Policy (0/250자)