I recently had the opportunity to test out Yamaha’s Niken, a three wheeled motorcycle that includes a high tech front end suspension and steering system which allows the use of a dual front end setup with sportsbike-like handling.
Yamaha certainly kicked a goal with the Niken, which really does offer a real motorcycle experience from the handling perspective, while making good use of the brand’s CP3 triple-cylinder powerplant, albeit in a more touring orientated setup.
As with anything different, there’s no doubt this model will be a strange experience for many motorcyclists, but spend some time with the Niken and you can more fully appreciate what’s going on and the very different feel.
It won’t be a machine for everyone, and the Yamaha Tracer 900 fills a similar role at a cheaper buy-in, but the Yamaha Niken is truly something unique.
Here’s a quick look at the Niken with some snaps I took, while you’ll be able to find a full test by Jeff at BikeReview.com.au in the near future.