After the release of the two-stroke in 2014 and the 450 four-stroke in 2015, Sherco has refined all its models for 2016. They have always been efficient machines but they are now close to perfection!
When you think of the South of France it inevitably evokes the sun and holidays. That is especially true here, a few kilometers from the Sherco factory that is located in Nimes where we were invited to a presentation of the new 2016 Enduro models. We are in a beautiful area between meadows and wooded hills where despite the 35 ° Celsius ambient temperatures we are all excited about grabbing the handlebars and taking these machines for a test ride. The machines are all lined up and shiny, ready to do battle with the surrounding terrain. Because Sherco now exports to 70 countries around the world, it was not surprising to find 35 journalists invited to discover the “blue” line.
Many modifications
But before throwing a leg over the SE-R and SE-R F, we took a glance at what is new for 2016. The four-stroke bikes have received a lot of changes to the cylinder, the gearbox and the water pump. They now also have a keyless starting system. A push of the magic button and you’re off! All of the 4T’s have received updates that have improved the performance in both maximum power and improved smoothness and flexibility which enhances their rideability.
The changes include reworking the engine maps and the crankshaft has been modified to reduce weight. Less inertia equals quicker response, but without being abrupt. The 2T’s have received similar updates: they are more powerful but easier to manage. The engine valves and ignition curves have been optimized, the gear selection mechanism has been redesigned and the water pump has been enhanced. The entire range has also received an enhanced rear subframe, a new very modern design front fender along with new stronger more flexible handguards.
Motorcycles of champions
On the track! Those who are familiar with Sherco know that in recent years riders generally appreciate their ease of use, maneuverability and traction. The same goes for the engine performance it is impressive but still optimized for the intended application. It is therefore not a surprise when you attack the first corners with great confidence. Despite the slippery grass and the hard ground there were no uncontrolled moves and it slide very gradually. Even the lively two-stroke displayed incredible flexibility, the opening of the valves have been adjusted to provide a later opening.
Furthermore, it devoured the hills and the difficult parts of the course. It went uphill at the pace we dictated, a natural jump was handled with ease. No problem with anything we attempted, everything is swallowed up without loss of control or traction. We played a while in a succession of crossings without any problems. I can now better understand the performance of Lorenzo Santolino, Loic Larrieu and Matti Seistola in the Enduro World Championship. It is not by chance that they have had winning performances since the start of the 2015 season. I do not think I have seen anything yet.
I followed the path which led me to a narrow and rocky trail. This was a real test for an “Enduro Motorcycle” where stability is sorely tested. I was amazed at how it tracked. No inopportune evasive movements were required, I could ride the right line, even with the lightweight two-stroke. Around a bend, the trail plunges into a hellish descent that is treacherous with three steps with no chance to catch up. We must jump into this hell and trust the suspensions. Again, it does not move, the WP units do not bottom out despite their original flexibility. I’m riding on a cloud and return to the big meadow with a big smile under the helmet. It’s time to talk power.
The power produced by the 300 SE-R and 450 SE-F R is staggering. Their power seems to be unlimited and I can review reports from the rally bike racing. The power delivery between two turns is a cinch, fun in the rough! The 250 cm3 is obviously less hair-raising in raw power, but have a rare efficiency. What one loses in top speed is gained through the corners with minimal inertia and increased maneuverability. If we add in the fact that the Brembo braking is both powerful and progressive, we would have to say that these are the enduro machine of the year.
With its 2016 range Sherco has touched the heights in the enduro bike market. These are bikes that must be tried…
