Ducati have been shouting about their new Multistrada, claiming it is a new type of motorcycle that is the right mix of sportsbike handling with enduro style comfort: "a real world motorcycle for real world riders," as they would have it.
Meanwhile, Cagiva have been quietly revising their venerable Navigator: "a motorcycle like no other. Power and comfort in an unbeatable mix - the essence of off-road and a great roadster together for the first time."
Now come on lads, we all know the super trailie has been around almost as long as Yamaha's old XT500.
Updates to the Navigator for 2004 include a stylish opaque black frame and wheels, with the same finish on the crankcase covers and luggage rack.
Performance comes courtesy of the stonking unburstable Suzuki TL1000S 90 degree V-twin (earlier versions used Ducati motors). Re-mapping of the ignition and injection has made this engine more docile and better suited to touring.
The engine is limited to 6000rpm in sixth (top) gear. This is a perfect motor for long hauls with a decent interval between services - the valves need shimming only every 15,000 miles.
The motor churns out nearly 100bhp, more than enough to hustle this 210kg cycle to 130mph.
The 1000cc Nav is a pretty nifty handler, thanks in part to the 18in rear wheel and properly sorted suspension. Even fully loaded the Navigator can be thrown through bends with confidence. If things do get a bit too exciting the twin discs up front and Nissin calipers soon bring things under control.
The half-fairing and screen keep wind and rain off rider and passenger, and the double elliptic headlamp throws a powerful beam for night riding.
The alloy luggage rack comes as standard, and there's a range of optional panniers and a top box to give 140 litres of storage space for that long haul trip.
Cagiva have also given serious thought to pillion rider as well. Besides the comfortable seat there's efficient heat shield on the silencer.
The Navigator is a comfortable two-up tourer that really motors, and is great fun when you hit the curves. A top all-rounder, just like the Multistrada - only a lot cheaper. So what's stopping you? The bum perch is only 800mm off the deck so even shorties can give the Nav a try.
