Buzz
Having the chance to engage with and test numerous motorcycle models in 2022, below are the bikes that stirred my emotions and left lasting impressions after the experience. This year, aside from large-displacement bikes, electric motorcycles were also a focus of exploration. Furthermore, affordable mainstream models with reasonable price tags offered substantial value for everyday use.VinFast Vento S
This is an upgraded version compared to the previous Vento, featuring a new LFP battery placed on the floor for improved mobility. It accompanied me throughout a 1,000 km journey, traversing diverse terrains from steep slopes to gravel and rocky paths. The car impressed me with its stylish and modern exterior, especially the LED taillights and the colorful LCD speedometer. In terms of performance, the electric motor with a maximum power of 5100W, coupled with adjustments in the ECU, enhances the impressive kickstart capability of the bike.
The throttle response stands out as the most highly praised factor. Having previously test-driven the Vento, the bike's throttle feedback is remarkably smooth, resembling that of a conventional scooter. The abrupt jerking sensation present in previous VinFast electric bike generations or compared to mid-range products is no longer evident. Even the previous Vento model didn't achieve the same smoothness as the Vento S. For the upgraded version, the throttle delay after each brake application is no more.
Operating an electric bike truly brings a distinct and refreshing experience, especially when compared to using traditional gasoline motorcycles, particularly on longer journeys. The feeling of twisting the throttle to ascend hills, the bike remains powerful yet doesn't produce the typical roar from a combustion engine, creating an enjoyable experience. This sensation adds excitement to coastal rides with sun and wind, making the journey more interesting and less monotonous. The stability of the bike's chassis is well-maintained at speeds below 70 km/h. When acceleration is needed to overtake a truck on the road, the process is swift and decisive.
The VinFast Vento S is, in my evaluation, the most premium electric scooter worth purchasing from VinFast.2022 Yamaha FreeGo S
From my perspective, the 2022 Yamaha FreeGo S stands out as the best 'performance for price' scooter in 2022. With a price starting at just over 33 million VND, we get a flexible and responsive scooter, smooth and stable road performance. Particularly impressive is its affordable price combined with the inclusion of ABS safety technology for the front brake, making emergency stops much safer and more confident. During my one-week experience, the FreeGo S genuinely brings joy every time I take the handlebars, easily maneuvering through crowded streets. The scooter has a spacious compartment, accommodating both a backpack and the fuel tank cap's placement is a detail I really appreciate.2022 Yamaha MT-10 SP
The Yamaha MT-10 SP 2022 can be considered Yamaha's flagship naked bike, impressing me with its abundance of technology and exceptionally smooth performance, especially the gearbox. Notable technologies equipped on the MT-10 include a 4.2-inch TFT speed display, an additional 6-axis IMU system, 4 different riding modes, new traction control system, rear-wheel slide control system, Yamaha Variable Speed Limiter (YVSL), travel control, ABS, and for the SP variant I experienced, electronic adjustable suspension.
While still utilizing the 4-cylinder CP4 998cc inline engine, Yamaha has made significant internal and component adjustments to deliver more power and efficient performance. Specifically, internal components have been redesigned, and materials have been changed, such as aluminum pistons and steel connecting rods instead of titanium as seen on the R1, and refined fuel injection system. The 2022 Yamaha MT-10 now boasts a maximum power of 164 horsepower at 11,500 rpm and a peak torque of 112 Nm at 9,000 rpm. Compared to the previous model, the engine produces 158.2 horsepower at 11,500 rpm and a peak torque of 111 Nm at 9,000 rpm.
The bike still features a 6-speed manual gearbox, but now the two-way Quickshifter is a standard inclusion. Alongside the Assist and Slipper (A&S) clutch, enhancing smoother gear shifts and preventing wheel lock during rapid downshifting. Despite its slightly hefty and cumbersome size, making it a bit challenging to maneuver, the operation of the MT-10 is virtually flawless.2022 Yamaha XMAX 300
VinFast Evo 200
While it may not flaunt high-end features like the Klara A1 or Vento S, the Evo 200 aims at affordability and practicality. In these aspects, the Evo 200 excels. Real-world testing indicates a maximum range of up to 150 km per full charge. Its top speed of 70 km/h is more than sufficient for navigating Vietnamese roads, both urban and rural. Though slow off the line due to a modest power motor, the Evo 200 accelerates well beyond 30 km/h and easily overtakes when necessary. Priced at 22 million with a battery rental policy, the Evo 200 is undoubtedly a compelling choice for transitioning to electric vehicles, especially in the context of current petrol station queues.2019 Ducati Scrambler Icon
The Scrambler Icon isn't a new model; the version I test-drove was a 2019 variant with a wet clutch, ABS, self-cancelling turn signals, and slight cosmetic updates. This is the bike I've always dreamed of since the early days of my passion for motorcycles. A week with the Ducati Scrambler Icon brought forth a range of emotions - excitement, followed by some reluctance due to inconveniences, weight, and heat. However, as I rode more, the bike grew on me. For someone passionate about riding like myself, the Scrambler truly is an intriguing motorcycle. After a week with the Scrambler, I understand why people associate the word 'Hot' with this model and why, despite the heat, many enthusiasts use it as a daily commuting vehicle.Aprilia SR GT Sport 200
The Aprilia SR GT Sport 200 stands out as a unique model in the Vietnamese market, being essentially the only officially sold ADV scooter. The bike impresses with its incredibly robust and eye-catching design, resembling a true large-displacement motorcycle. The modern front/rear lighting system adds to its appeal. What left an impression on me is the highly efficient performance of the front suspension. The Showa front fork with a diameter of 30 mm and a travel of 120 mm is conventional, not inverted. However, through a brief experience, I observed that the bike's front suspension operates exceptionally well. When traversing speed bumps or rough road terrains, oscillations can be easily dampened, and feedback from the road surface does not cause discomfort to the handlebars, allowing for comfortable and safe operation. The Aprilia SR GT Sport 200 features front-channel ABS and lacks traction control technology, which is a bit regrettable. However, the overall experience is quite worth the price.
This is a conventional telescopic fork, not an inverted one. Nevertheless, in my quick test rides, I noticed that the bike's front suspension functions exceptionally well. When navigating speed bumps or uneven terrains on the road, the oscillations can be easily absorbed, and the road surface feedback doesn't cause discomfort to the handlebars. This allows for comfortable and safe operation. The Aprilia SR GT Sport 200 features front-channel ABS and lacks traction control technology, which is a bit unfortunate. However, the overall experience is quite justified for the price.2022 Yamaha Grande Blue Core Hybrid
I've had quite a connection with Yamaha bikes this year, especially with the Yamaha Grande Blue Core Hybrid. Two years ago, I had an emotional full-tank test ride with the bike, and the results were impressive. This year, the new Yamaha Grande Blue Core Hybrid is introduced with a much more modern appearance, featuring sleeker curves, full LED lighting system for excellent and prominent brightness. Beyond the exterior, the bike also impresses me with its super spacious trunk, incredibly smooth operation, and fuel efficiency thanks to the hybrid engine. Safety is also a priority with front-wheel ABS.
Throughout the past year, I'm curious about which bike models you've had the opportunity to test ride and if there are any special memories, feel free to share them in the comments below.
