Mark Fattore: Bikesales editor
Honda's ongoing stagnation. With due respect to fare like the new CB650 range, Yamaha, in particular, and Kawasaki have completely out-shone their Japanese counterpart in 2014, which is a major shame as a vibrant Honda seemingly has a ripple effect through the rest of the industry. It's not a lack of wherewithal, we know that, so hopefully next year the buzz will return.
Alex Penklis: Bikesales freelancer
In a world where there are rules for rules, my surprise is the law permitting lane filtering in NSW. While I am all for it and see no danger in it (if done sensibly), I found it very left field that the government approved an activity that could potentially be a little dangerous. All I know is I am getting to places quicker, in turn easing traffic congestion, and drivers are starting to become more courteous as I slide through.
Steve Martin: Bikesales freelancer
Valentino Rossi. I honestly thought that getting rid of Aussie legend Jeremy Burgess would backfire and Vale would still be struggling with speed and fitness to duke it out at the front. He surprised everyone and the legend lives on.