Erik Buell Racing 1190RX: Details, photos

October 18, 2013

It's fast, it's yellow (or red, or black), and it's here: This is the Erik Buell Racing 1190RX. — It’s fast, it’s yellow (or red, or black), and it’s here: This is the Erik Buell Racing 1190RX.

Erik Buell Racing finall unveiled their 1190RX at Orlando’s AIMExpo this week. Here are some photos, along with juicy details about the new American superbike.

Erik Buell loves his braking system ... — Erik Buell loves his braking system …

Based around an 1190 cc V-twin motor from Rotax, the otherwise made-in-the-USA 1190RX supposedly makes 185 hp at 10,600 rpm and 102 ft-lbs of torque at 8200 rpm, with an 11,500 rpm redline. To help you control the power, there’s 21-level traction control, although there’s no anti-wheelie software. Buell’s designers understand their market very well …

The impressive stats continue. If you’re concerned about saving gas, or reducing emissions, the bike supposedly gets 62 mpg (Imperial) and has ridiculously low carbon emissions. The machine has a 419-lb wet weight, and all the lighting is LED. There are Showa Big Piston forks up front, and a Showa shock in rear as well (fully adjustable, of course).

Of course, the machine also features Erik Buell’s funky trademark brakes, with the Zero Torsional Load design. Note that big single disc up front … The design reduces unsprung weight, but not everyone’s a fan, for sure.

Here's the view from the back. — Here’s the view from the back.

The price tag? EBR has put an $18,995 price tag on this in the US. Obviously, it will cost more in Canada.

The doubters will have a chance to see whether or not they’re right, as early as next year. Supposedly, EBR is going to campaign this motorcycle in World Superbike racing. With that high price tag, they’re putting this bike on level with superbikes from Europe. A few rounds into the WSB schedule will quickly show whether or not they’re actually there yet.