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URBAN COMMUTERS
Sporty bikes for our city streets | By Shelley Green
Whoosh and wind through gridlock traffic with the greatest of ease on a sleek, yet powerful city motorcycle. It may not be the Batpod, but these bikes still pack some serious speed (Batman gadgets not included).
Climb aboard Ducati’s Hypermotard 1100 for a ride that is sure to thrill. Ducati’s two-valve, air-cooled, Desmodromic Dual Spark engine with 1078 displacement, offers extreme power to achieve 95 horsepower and 76 pounds of torque. A sleek, minimalist ‘motard’ design with triangulated trellis frame, combined with the agility of the ‘sportbike’ is perfect for commuter traveling or conquering winding mountain roads. Available in classic Ducati red or black, the Hypermotard 1100 impresses across the board in both performance and craftsmanship.
Take the back roads to work on the new BMW R 1200 R roadster. The optional Automatic Stability Control and BMW Integral ABS makes riding on gravel feel smooth and even. Enjoy instant acceleration from idling speed with the lightweight 2-cylinder boxer engine and 109 hp.
Equipped to hold two passengers, the Roadster’s seat widens at the rear to ensure comfort. Accessories include a tank rucksack or waterproof top case. Pack a few essentials, leave the gas-guzzler at home and zip off to a weekend getaway.
Buell Lightning CityX XB9SX
The essential urban motorcycle is found in the Buell Lightning CityX XB9SX. The upright seat position keeps the rider locked at eye level with rush hour traffic. Smooth handling paired with Buell’s Thunderstorm 984 V-Twin engine allows the rider to twist and turn through downtown traffic and guarantees on-time arrival for a movie or dinner date.
Available at:
Ducati, Euro Cycles of Tampa Bay, 813-926-9937;
BMW, BMW Motorcycles of Tampa, 813-926-9937;
Buell, Harley-Davidson/ Buell of Tampa, 813-886-7433.
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