At the start of this month we wrote about our favourite bikes of 2013. Last year’s releases certainly didn’t disappoint, with Ducati delivering its 1199 Panigale R, BMW unveiling its long-awaited S1000R, and entry level sports bikes hitting the market like Kawasaki’s Ninja 300. But, now it’s time to look forward, and with some great releases expected this year we’ve put together a list of our future favourites. 
Lotus C-01
There’s always a sense of anticipation when a car manufacturer moves on to other ventures, and we’re more than excited about the prospect of the Lotus C-01. Described by the manufacturers as a “hyper bike”, this upcoming model will be powered by a liquid-cooled V-twin engine that can be tuned to produce around 200bhp.
Unofficial pictures leaked by Motorcycle News reveal a sleek-looking beast encased in a carbon fibre monocoque. The bike will allegedly have a raked-out front end, an enormously wide rubber-rear and a black and yellow colour scheme. Official pictures of the C-01 are yet to be released, but Lotus is expected to reveal more details on the bike in February.
BMW K1600 GT / Sport
If you want a bike that delivers comfort, performance and outstanding riding quality, look no further than BMW’s 2014 K1600 GT. The six-cylinder, 1649cc lump delivers 160bhp with great power reserves at lower revs making it a joy to ride around town.
What really sets this bike apart from the rest is its handling and smoothness on the roads.This suave sports tourer is perfect for long-distance rides, offering plenty of legroom and an adjustable seat that is sloped gently forwards. LED indicators, heated seat and grips all come as standard. As a world exclusive, the bike also features adaptable headlights for improved safety.
The sports package takes the touring experience one step further, with additional features including a lower windshield, black gloss alloy wheels, a re-contoured seat with contrast stitching and a Black Storm/Sakhir Orange paint scheme.
KTM 1290 Super Duke R
As far as stripped-down streetfighters go, KTM’s 1290 Super Duke tops our list for this year’s releases.
This agile machine weighs in at just 417 lbs and is propelled towards the claimed top speed of 150+mph by it’s 180bhp V-twin 1301cc power plant. The bike has impressive handling even at high speeds thanks to its adjustable chassis, traction control and sophisticated electronics suspension system.
Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade SP
Most of the high-end bike releases we see today feature top-range tech and gadgets. However, Honda’s CBR1000RR Fireblade SP features no electronic suspension system, no traction control and just one riding mode: simple, but it works.
Honda has instead channelled its energy into using only the very best materials for the Fireblade’s aluminium frame, suspension and engine to produce a super-sports bike that is a cut above the rest.
The CBR1000RR Fireblade features a 999cc, liquid-cooled 16-valve engine which pushes out 178bhp and a top speed of 170mph. On the road, the improved spec means it definitely trumps its predecessor with improved suspension offering an extra-rigid riding experience that is perfect for the track. Added to this is a new windscreen, new riding position and even more power. The bike has fantastic throttle response, and is available in a new pearl/white colour scheme.
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