Erik Buell has his own unique vision of the contemporary motorcycle and has been promoting novel techniques and methods, such as mass centralization, extreme chassis stiffness and the reduction of unsprung weight for 20 years. Without admitting it, the top manufacturers in the industry are gradually adhering to his visions, especially in matters of weight centralization, in order to improve their own machines' nimbleness and make them easier to control.

The Buell 1125CR will prove just as enjoyable on the highway as the track.

The 1125CR (For "Cafe Racer", a naked sportbike look from 60s), an offshoot of the 1125R launched in 2007, is a powerful street bike at home on the open road as well as the track. The Rotax-built V2 engine, an advanced version of the one that powered the Aprilia RSVs, was developed by the Austrian manufacturer according to Buell's own precise specifications. This impressive mill delivers 146 hp and 82 ft-lb of torque, identical figure to the 1125R engine in the Buell sportbike; the main difference between the models being the final gear reduction, which is shorter on the CR to provide quicker acceleration and give it a more playful edge, as well as to compensate for the less efficient aerodynamics on the CR compared to the R.

The CR ergonomics are virtually identical to the R, boasting the same seat, foot peg position and pedals, while its grips are about 10 cm further apart. That's the rub, though, as the low handlebars combined with the relatively high foot pegs in relation to the seat make for a sporty riding position on the CR that is not for everyone. Luckily, the Buell accessories catalog offers a set of handlebars featuring higher and set back grips for riders who prefer a more stand-up riding position. A discrete wind deflector completes the intentionally retro-looking ensemble, once again as per Erik Buell's concept of a Cafe Racer.

The frame, directly inherited from the R, works wonderfully well with the fantastic V2, delivering great throttle response in town and enough power to keep fussier riders happy on the track, as well as extremely stable handling in all conditions, both street and track. Like most of the standard performance bikes on the market, such as the FZ1, various Monsters, Bandit 1200s, Speed Triples and K1300Rs, the Buell 1125CR will prove just as enjoyable on the highway as the track. At $12,599, exclusivity and performance are offered at a realistic price.

The CR ergonomics are mostly identical to those of the R.

Photo Credit : Buell