Of course, when speaking about motorcycle design, one manufacturer's name is sure to crop up: Ducati. As always, the Italian brand had a slick display filled to the brim with highly desirable models. The most anticipated new bike is undoubtedly the 1098, the machine upon which Ducati's immensely successful World Superbike challenger will be based.

Ducati 848

But the bike that shares many of the 1098's styling cues and is a lot easier on the pocketbook is the new 848. Replacing the old 748/749, this new sportbike weighs a whopping 20 kg less than its predecessor, yet develops 134 horsepower, a boost of 30%.

The radial braking system by Brembo features 320mm front discs operated by 4-piston calipers. A Showa rear suspension and MotoGP-inspired display panel add to the racy features.

American iron heats up
Over in the Harley-Davidson camp, there are no fewer than 14 models set to be released bearing a special 105th anniversary paint scheme. Of even more interest are three brand new models: the Dyna Fat Bob, Rocker and Rocker C.

The Rocker pair, in particular, has the kind of chopper-inspired styling that, not that long ago, was available only from custom builders. They're low and mean-looking and they had the crowd buzzing.

The company also unveiled the new Buell 1125R, the sportbike that many consider to be an important step in the battle to steal customers from their Japanese competitors. The machine is powered by a liquid-cooled (a Buell first), 72-degree V-twin developed in partnership with BRP-Rotax and produces a claimed 146 horsepower.

While the 1125R looks to be a winner from a technological standpoint, it was disappointing to see that the bike's styling was on the understated side. In fact, in comparison to recent efforts such as the CityX and the Ulysses, the sportbike is the tamest looking of the bunch.

Buell 1125R