Smaller and scarier for 2006

Speculation out of the UK suggests a 130-horse target power figure for Yamaha's R6, which also scores a new frame that carries a close visual resemblance to the MotoGP bike, plus an even beefier swingarm than on the current R1. UK Motorcycle News has scored some factory pics of the machine, which reveal an extremely angular theme to the styling that now includes a super-stubby exhaust.

Meanwhile Kawasaki has given its ZX-10R a major make-over with styling that includes under-seat mufflers and an overall package that is said to be significantly more compact than the current machine - which we'd hardly call a giant.

No doubt we'll lean more as the international shows draw closer...