In short:Much more flexible than the Italian 125s in restricted form and cheaper, too Pros:Much more flexible than the Italian 125s in restricted form and cheaper, too Cons:Much more flexible than the Italian 125s in restricted form and cheaper, too

to be an instuctors bike. aqim: 650 2001 raptor great bike better suspension, brakes wheels and looks,than the suzuki.also has more power. Strengths: Brembos great stoppers,firmer ride,braided lines.jap reliability, italian passion in design stands out in crowd. a

Europe, on my motorbike and the Italian border is within reach.With my steed being a 2000 Cagiva Gran Canyon, with the fine two-valve Ducati 900 motor, I thought it fitting to make my first bike pilgrimage to the Cagiva factory. Riding around Varese

, Damien Basset, the Italian chief project engineer, Giulio Malagoli, and their development team have made an excellent job of hiding any ugly wiring or plumbing, as well as keeping strong elements of the 1098’s stunning good looks in such a way

it in an almost bespoke looking outfit. Spoked wheels, fancy tan leather and a classic, racing green paint job make the bike look like it’s worth more than the £9,109 Moto Guzzi is asking for.The Quattrovalvole 1151cc V-twin does an ample job of backing up

luigi with the big balls: Ducati has really done a great job with the 848 evo, more power more torque and ofcourse... less weight! Strengths: There are too many pros to write it all down so i'll write it in bulletpoints.-VERY light-perfect brakes

or pools in the creases. Gore-Tex doing its job well. I haven't been had a soaking yet.Well fitted - Relatively snug 'Italian' fit ensures no flapping at high speed, especially the arms.Chest protection - Light foam as standard but upgradeable

In short:I’d need some track time before deciding whether it’s a match for existing Japanese and Italian opposition. It’s up there scrapping with them, though. Pros:I’d need some track time before deciding whether it’s a match for existing Japanese

In short:A wonderfully capable all-rounder that will satisfy your need for speed or go the whole distance. It's just a good job you don't have to look at it when you're riding it. Pros:A wonderfully capable all-rounder that will satisfy your need

.We knew the Mondial Piega was going to be powered by a fairly stock Honda SP-1 motor, so nobody was expecting it to compete with the current batch of superbike missiles, but the Italian firm have developed their own exhaust system as well as improving