The Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard isn’t just about four-wheeled action. Motorcycles also form a significant chunk of the entry list, with both competition and road-going machines taking their turns on the Hill throughout the four days of the event. It’s the bikes with numberplates we’re turning out sights on here, where the latest new machinery is gathered in the First Glance presented by heycar paddock.
Aprilia has brought the latest incarnation of the RSV4. Like the Porsche 911, it has been evolved over the years and this latest version has a 220PS (161kW) version of the V4 engine. With its visual nips and tucks, there are plenty of new aero details to take in during your first glance.
The Norton V4SV, a development of its V4SS forebear, combines classic charm with modern performance with a package the combines a tig-welded aluminium frame with carbonfibre bodywork. The characterful1,200cc V4 produces 187PS (136kW) to ensure it can cash the cheques written by it appearance.
Fresh from its recent reveal at the Concours d’Eleganza at Villa d’Este is the BMW R20 concept. Its appearance is dominated by the big air-oil-cooled boxer engine, which gives it a powerful stance. It’s possible the boldest interpretation yet of the BMW Motorrad character and may offer hints of future road machines.
Royal Enfield has brought several machines along that exemplify its willing attitude towards customisation. The Continental GT is inspired by the 1975 BMW 3.0 CSL art car, and is as lurid as you’d expect. There’s also a Custom Super Meteor 650 dubbed ‘Cherry’s Company Challenger’ which also has a hand-made sidecar. There’s also a prop from the Netflix series The Kitchen in the form of ‘Izi’s Ride’, a Shotgun 650.
Triumph also has something special in its armoury. The Speed Triple 1200RR Breitling Limited Edition comes in a metallic silver finished with hand-painted coachlining and a high spec that includes a titanium Akrapovic exhaust. Just 270 will be built for the global market.
FOS
FOS 2024
Festival of Speed
Festival of Speed 2024
Event Coverage
First Glance
Festival of Speed
Festival of Speed
Festival of Speed