Motorcycle specifications Bimota1100 SB6-R 1998 The spirit of Bimota

A film that is a box-office hit is quickly followed 3 years later by a sequel in the same vein. Often, it's not as good; sometimes, it's better (The Godfather 2, Indiana Jones 2, Terminator 2...).
To our pleasant surprise, the second-generation Bimota SB6, which builds on the success of the former, is even better than the investigator. The SB6, released in 1994, was the initiator of the SLC frame, a structure with very straight longitudinal members. Once again, the factory demonstrated its willingness and ability to innovate.

the SB6R takes up the torch without apprehension or complexes. Above all, it has a new look. The lines are still fluid, but more aggressive. The two headlights, previously separated, are now united in a single optical unit. The fairing is tauter, the fuel tank redesigned; but it's certainly the rear end that has evolved the most aesthetically. The exhausts are no longer hidden in the backsplash, but positioned underneath. The self-supporting, single-seater saddle is elegantly curved, highlighting the mufflers and the machine's exclusive character. The swingarm has a larger cross-section and is now branded with the manufacturer's name. Do you like carbon? You'll find it right down to the fork pockets. As for the powerplant, there are no surprises: it's still the 4-cylinder of the Suzuki 1100 GSX-R. And it, too, has been adapted to today's tastes.
Bimota has given it a larger airbox linked to an optimized forced-air system. A little adjustment to the carburetor for the result, and the Japanese block breathes harder than ever.
The chassis has been further stiffened, the wheelbase increased by 10 mm, as has the rear tire, which is now 190 mm wide.

even more sporty for the SB6R, right down to the cockpit. There's now a large tachometer in a central position, backed up on the sides by a speedometer in the 320s. A small digital dial completes the package, allowing you to monitor temperature and mileage.
There's just enough time to drool a little over the magnificent fork crown and appreciate the slightly more comfortable saddle before we have to face the truth - you've got to get out of town fast, it's not going to work. It's bad enough that the rider is quickly subjected to pain due to his very sporty position (ouch, ouch wrists)... Not a very pleasant ride. And the bike's tiny weight won't compensate for the tiny turning radius. What's more, you can't see anything in the mirrors. Let's get out of here.

the road cleared and the lanes multiplied. It didn't take long for the SB6R to reach largely forbidden speeds. It goes fast, faster than the wind, and the Italian once again proves its remarkable stability. Not really any different from the SB6, which did just as well. But it's always gratifying to know that your ride is theoretically even more stable than its predecessor.
The Bimota is just waiting for you to take advantage of its talent. The bends come, the rider smiles, the bike gloats. You take it from one curve to the next with the ease of a Japanese sports bike. Its 184 kg dry weight is an asset in tight corners, where the SB6R can count on surprising agility for an 1100.
You can slam into the bend and brake with a crunch of the lever, but the chassis remains unflappable. It's worth noting that the Brembo brakes are truly powerful - too bad the bite isn't quite as satisfying. In the bend, the machine stays on a straight track, and you can even correct its trajectory at any time. Those familiar with the GSX-R will be amazed at what the mill can do when it passes through the Rimini factory. Imagine: the power of an 1100 and the revs of a 750. Let the rev counter needle rise a little. You have to wait until 4,000 rpm to feel the mill push, and then the big 8 begins. It goes up, up, up, up, up and up...

The boiler never stops throwing out big watts, and there's no end in sight. We enter the red zone and it's still pushing. Only the ignition switch can calm the big 4-legger. In terms of acceleration, the SB6R is just as brilliant. A burst of throttle at mid-range and the bike bounces right back. It doesn't take long to get hooked on the adrenalin.

don't judge the Bimota SB6R by comparing it to Japanese models. The Italian offers performance and exception. This R edition of the SB6 has evolved: a unique taste, a silhouette to succumb to, an intoxicating perfume and a tasty ride. The fact remains that, at almost 130,000 francs, this beautiful toy is closer to a dream than to your banker's smile.