Bimota unveils the DB8
The exotic Italian motorcycle builder's 'affordable' 36K superbike
Like all modern Bimotas, the new 2010 DB8 Biposto makes use of a donor engine -- this time from a Ducati – and builds a bespoke motorcycle around it.
Being an Italian company, it's fitting that power for the new DB8 Biposto 'two-seater' comes from Ducati: the 1198 Testastretta Evoluzione engine. Pumping out 170hp (125kW) and more than 130Nm of torque, the svelte new Bimota DB8, unveiled at the Verona Motorcycle Expo on Januray 15, should be quick enough to lose your license and possibly go straight to jail in one fell swoop.
Though not as jaw-droppingly exotic as some of its past creations, the lack of carbon fibre doesn't detract too much from the eye-candy on offer, with a design that still oozes European passion. Tipping the scales at 178kg it's not superlight, but with a decent chassis it shouldn't unduly blunt the V-twin engine's performance.
Floating Brembo brakes make the cut and, though the suspension will not be A-class -- Marzocchi upside-down front forks and an Extreme Tech rear shock -- it will still be fully adjustable. Rolling stock are Dunlop Sportmax GP Racers.
Making use of plastic fairing instead of carbon, an aluminium subframe and stainless steel exhaust, the cost of production for the new Bimota DB8 will be significantly reduced compared to previous models. Could the Italian brand be looking at mass market products in the near future?
A naked version of the DB8 is in the works and, if demand is high, Bimota might be forced to increase output. But don't get too excited as Bimota doesn't have an Australian distributor at present.
Pricing for the new model has been set at €23,000 (A$36,000), and the Italian motorcycle company says it will sell 280 examples.
BIMOTA DB8 SPECIFICATIONS
Maximum power: 170hp (125kW) at 9750rpm
Maximum torque: 130Nm at 8000rpm
Exhaust system: 2-1-1, stainless steel
Wheelbase: 1435mm
Front suspension: Marzocchi USD forks, fully adjustable
Rear suspension: Extreme Tech monoshock, fully adjustable
Front brake: Double 320mm Brembo floating disc, 4-pistons radial Brembo callipers, radial pumps
Rear brake: 220mm floating disc, 2-piston Brembo calliper
Front tyre: 120/70 ZR 17 Dunlop Sportmax GP Racer
Rear tyre: 190/55 ZR 17 Dunlop Sportmax GP Racer
Total weight: 178kg
Dimensions
Overall length: 2100mm
Overall width: 700mm
Overall height: 1115mm
Ground clearance: 135mm
Steering angle: 25 degress
Seat height: 800mm
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