MCN gets first ride on Evaproducts Track T800CDI, results mixed
EVA Track T800CDI diesel motorcycle - Click above for high-res image gallery
Curious what it's like to ride a diesel-powered adventure motorcycle equipped with a CVT transmission? So are we, but at least we can get a general idea from Motorcycle News in the UK, which is the first media outlet to score a test ride on the new Evaproducts Track T800CDI. As much as we'd love to say the bike passed its first test with flying colors, that doesn't quite seem to be the case.
While there's seemingly little to complain about from a powerplant that manages to put out a stout 78 lb-ft of torque and an equally impressive 115 or so miles per gallon (140 mpg in the UK), MCN found that the engine delivers that power along with a lot of noise, vibration and smelly fumes. In this case, tractor-like isn't used as a compliment, and even with all that torque, the 45 horsepower mill reportedly propels the bike in a rather liesurely fashion.
Besides the unlovable powerplant, MCN had nice things to say about the bike's chassis and build quality. Let's face it, though – this machine's claim to fame is its unique (for a motorcycle, at least) smart-sourced diesel engine and automatic transmission. Naturally, we'll reserve final judgement until more ride reports hit the interwebs, but this initial review doesn't sound all that promising.
Gallery: EVA Track diesel motorcycle
[Source: Motorcycle News]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
ale 9:22PM (6/12/2009)
if we want this concept to succeed, we diesel fans cant afford to see a diesel that performs like that if we want others to get on board.
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jim 8:19AM (6/13/2009)
I detect a bit of attitude on the part of the tester. MCN is infamous for poo poohing anything that's not a racer-boy wannabe.
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Matt 9:44PM (6/13/2009)
I'm not sure what they mean by intrusive vibrations, but anyone who has ridden a Harley can surely deal with an 800cc SMART engine's rumble with no problem. Considering it's still in the prototype stage, the vibration should be fixable. As for the exhaust, don't sit still, enough said. The leisurely accelloration is really not a problem as long as it can make freeway speeds; look at how many Honda Rebels sell every year, lots of people simply want MPG's with wind in the face. This bike will be awesome, and will be the ultimate commuter bike come production time!
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