The rumors about new bikes for 2003 are pouring in, and a number have gone beyond the rumor stage into the realm of “sure thing”.
In the 600 class, Honda, Kawasaki and Triumph should debut entirely new models, while Yamaha and Suzuki unveil substantially updated models. Ducati will introduce a much more powerful, Testastretta-based 749 for the middleweight class.
Kawasaki may have the only all-new 1000cc, in-line four, but Suzuki’s GSX-R1000 should receive some changes, as well. While Yamaha is likely to stick with its R1 introduced this year, Honda could surprise us with a new open-class bike (perhaps something new to homologate for superbike racing).
Ducati has already told the world about the 999, but Aprilia is due for some changes to its Mille, as well. Don’t expect something quite as drastic as what Ducati came up with.
The bottom line is that 2003 will see many exciting new models for the sport bike category. We can’t wait.
