Australian M/C Expo. Dec 08

BMW
BMW Motorrad showcased its versatile F800 GS and F650 GS models, perfect for riders who enjoy a mix of road and off-road experiences. The G 450 X, which made its debut here in 2007 as a prototype, returned in 2008 as a production model after extensive testing in world endurance competition with Joel Smets.

DUCATI
The distinct and passionate red livery of Ducati's range captured show goers attention, with the manufacturer showcasing a comprehensive range of its new models, including the Superbike, Monster 696, Hypermotard and Multistrada, amongst others. Ducati's star bike was the incredible new Monster 1100.

HARLEY-DAVIDSON
Harley-Davidson puts an all new chassis under its popular Touring models for 2009, redesigned from the tyres up for a responsive ride and enhanced capacity and comfort. The newest models, including the Sportster XR1200, VRSC Muscle and Softail Heritage Classic, preserve the manfacturer's authentic heritage and design.

HONDA
Honda had a comprehensive lineup of new models. The DN-01 cruiser introduces an advanced, fully automatic transmission for lovers of the open road. Performance enthusiasts could check out the award winning CBR1000RR, or hit the dirt with the new CRF450R sporting an advanced EFI system.

KTM
Austrian manufacturer KTM was hard to miss, with the stand and range livery an eye catching orange. A range of ATV, mini-cycle, motocross, road and off-road and adventure models were on display, all influenced by KTM's 'Ready to Race' motto.

KAWASAKI
Kawasaki took the wraps off its new motocrossers, with the KX250F and KX450F both sporting a new frame, engine and suspension setup. An evolution of the 2007 Ninja ZX-6R, the 2009 6R is set to take the performance of its track-oriented predecessor to a higher level. The manufacturer will also unveil its first full-dress V-Twin, the Vulcan 1700 Voyager ABS.BRPBRP Australia returned with its revolutionary three-wheeled Can-Am Spyder. It offers all of the open-air benefits of a motorcycle and many of the peace of mind features of a car, something not traditionally found in open-road riding. The manufacturer also showcased its diverse range of ATV models, including the Outlander and Outlander MAX, as well as the Renegade and DS.

YAMAHA
Yamaha's lineup included additions to its 2009 showcase, with the YZF-R1 sporting a MotoGP-inspired crossplane crankshaft, the first to feature on a production motorcycle. The new VMax bristles with control technologies including fuel injection, Yamaha Chip Controlled Intake and Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle that offer linear delivery for its astonishing 200bhp and arm wrenching 166nM of torque. Plus the newest incarnation of the YFZ450R, sporting a higher power output coupled with superior handling. SUZUKISuzuki previewed its flagship GSX-R, the '09 GSXR-1000, boasting a lighter, more powerful and more responsive new 999cc engine, all new chassis and suspension, an enhanced brake package plus new styling. Other highlight models included the Boulevard M90 cruiser, and the 650cc, V-Twin-powered Gladius with a unique and distinctive look.

MV AGUSTA
The world's most expensive production motorcycle, the F4 CC returned to MV Agusta's display for 2008 following an incredible reception at the previous event. The manufacturer also showcased the new F4 1078 RR 312, described as 'the ultimate cocktail of power and controlled aggression'.

HUSQVARNA
Husqvarna will present a number of new additions to its lineup of widely acclaimed endure machines. The WR300 is the result of high demand for machines greater than 250cc, a perfect replica of the class 3 Enduro World Championship Series winner capable of superb power output. The TE 310 is another new model created to meet demand, featuring a renewed frame, wave type brake discs, high performance exhaust plus more.

TRIUMPH
Triumph's Street Triple R made its first public launch in Australia. Brimming with racetrack technology, the Triple R features a fuel injected 675cc three-cylinder unit, with new, fully adjustable suspension unit and a premium braking package.

VESPA/PIAGGIO
Piaggio's MP3 made waves when it was launched last year, and its newest model, the MP3 400 features the 'Master' 400cc liquid-cooled four-valve engine, producing 25Kw at 7500rpm and 38Nm of torque at 6500rpm, while meeting strict Euro emission standards. The unique design offers unsurpassed safety and stability levels, especially on uneven and wet surfaces, as well as the tram tracks of Melbourne. Melbourne also marked the debut of the Vespa GTS300 Super, the latest iteration of the classic all-steel Vespa.

VICTORY MOTORCYCLES
If the feedback we received was any indication, Victory was the reason a lot of punters attended this year's expo. As expected, the Victory Vision Street luxury tourer drew a lot of attention, but Victory's low-slung cruisers like the Vegas 8 ball and Jackpot also proved popular - in fact, the whole range was given the once over by enthusiasts and potential buyers at Melbourne, which marked the official debut for the Victory brand Down Under.

HYOSUNG
Hyosung displayed its range of tourers and sports cruisers at the event. The GT650S Tourer offers riders the luxury of throw over panniers, heated hand grips, an aero screen and luggage rack for those long distance rides. The GV650 Aquila is a proven all round sports cruiser, responsive on all road surfaces for a perfect ride each time.

APRILIA
Aprilia uncovered the Dorsudoro SMV 750. The Dorsoduro is powered by a 750cc, 95 hp, liquid cooled engine with a second generation ride-by-wire control system. This new motorcycle combines power and agility, sports construction and essential design, and incorporates the best features of racing supersport and supermotard machines.

MOTO GUZZI
Moto Guzzi unveiled two of its new models. The V7 Classic retains the character and heritage of the original 1967 model, updated with class-leading equipment levels, frame engineering and 750cc Euro 3 engine. The Stelvio 1200 4V has been designed and developed to brave any destination, devouring kilometres of roads and even off-road surfaces. Inspired by off-road bikes, it introduces new intense shapes and a dynamic energy that evokes the feeling of adventure, long routes; the most extreme use.