UPDATE: Here’s the review!
At the Long Beach International Motorcycle Show, Yamaha unveiled a variant of the crazy Niken LMW (Leaning Multi-Wheeler). Called the Niken GT, it’s got a center stand, upgraded front suspension, heated grips, and other touring features like a larger windscreen, comfort seat, two power outlets, and 25L saddlebags. I’m excited because it’s so different, but I genuinely have no idea what to expect. This week, I’ll get my chance to ride the Niken GT- what would you like to know about it?
This is what Yamaha showed at Long Beach – standard on the left, GT on the right. The standard has already sold out of its US production run (the rumor I heard was less than 100 units).
Yamaha will allow customers to transfer deposits to the GT model.
THE BASICS
Destination Charge:
Colors:
Engine:
Front suspension:
Rear suspension:
Front tire:
Rear tire:
Front brakes:
Rear brakes:
Seat height:
Wheelbase:
Fuel capacity:
Fuel economy:
Curb weight:
Warranty:
$17,299
$450
Matte Phantom Blue
847cc liquid-cooled, DOHC, inline 3-cylinder
43mm/41mm LMW dual tube fork, 4.3-in travel
Single shock, 4.9-in travel
Dual 120/70R15
190/55R17
Dual hydraulic disc, 298mm; ABS
Hydraulic disc, 282mm; ABS
32.9 in
59.4 inches
4.8 gallons
42.3 mpg
TBD (base Niken has a claimed wet weight of 580 lbs)
1 Year (Limited Factory)
If you already know the Niken GT has to go into your garage, you can put your name on the list with a $500 deposit at a Yamaha dealer by going through Yamaha’s website right now.
Otherwise, check out what Yamaha has to say about their newest model here, and then hit me with your questions in the comments!