The DRK-01 250cc model was Matt Motorcycles’ strongest machine!

The simple design that evokes the image of a dirt track bike suits any scene.

Matte Motorcycle DRK-01…849,200 yen

The styling design of the DRK-01 beautifully blends a classic feel with modern elements. My impression of the bike is that it's a blend of old and new. Its basic styling is that of a dirt track racer, with a fairly simple form. While the exterior isn't flashy, its timeless styling has a definite presence. It's suitable for riders of all ages and genders, and its timelessness means you won't tire of it even after years of riding. I think that's the beauty of such a simple, timeless bike. 
But that's not all. While the upper half of the DRK-01's body is slim and simple, the lower half, or the suspension, is distinctive for its impressive volume. The wheels are spoke-rim type, featuring a distinctive saw-tooth design, with the spokes joined to the teeth. The 18-inch rims are fitted with extra-thick 120/90 tubeless block tires. The result is a sporty, stable styling. 
There are other appealing points about the suspension, too. One is the use of inverted front forks. Matt Motorcycles' bikes, which are customized with models from the 60s and 70s as their motif, are equipped with standard upright front forks. Some models are even equipped with fork boots. However, the DRK-01 is equipped with modern inverted forks. What's more, the front disc brake is also equipped with a radial mount caliper. This suspension system gives the bike a very sporty ride.

The slightly set-back footpegs emphasize the sportiness of the car.

The body, equipped with semi-upright pipe handlebars, allows for an upright, natural riding form, as can be seen from its appearance. The hard seat isn't particularly comfortable, but the non-slip surface gives the impression of being well-suited for sporty riding. The 
seat height is 795mm, which isn't particularly low, but considering the front and rear suspension don't sink much at 1G, it didn't feel too high, and I didn't notice any issues with ease of getting on and off. While the footpegs are set back, they're not as high or far back as those on a supersport bike, so there's no discomfort when taking a riding position. However, at 178cm tall, I found the position to be quite in the way when I put my feet down, which was a bit of a concern. In any case, I found the position to be acceptable and familiar to everyone.

A water-cooled single-cylinder engine that delivers powerful torque even at low speeds and delivers excellent instantaneous power

The DRK-01's greatest feature is its water-cooled DOHC single-cylinder engine. Other models are equipped with air-cooled SOHC single-cylinder engines, which offer modest power output of 13 kW and maximum torque of 18 Nm for a 250cc engine. However, the DRK-01's water-cooled single-cylinder engine delivers impressive power, with a maximum output of 20 kW at 9,500 rpm and maximum torque of 22 Nm at 7,000 rpm. It also features a 6-speed transmission, ensuring a powerful and sporty ride. 
Starting it up and giving it a gentle stab, the throttle response is swift, and the full stainless steel exhaust system emits a powerful sound. While that alone is enough to give you a sense of its power, once you start, you're even more surprised by its instantaneous power. Its torque is powerful at low and mid-range revs, and its acceleration is outstanding. I was underestimating the bike's limited 250cc displacement, but when I opened the throttle, it sprinted off like a kick in the rear. With such engine characteristics, it offers excellent maneuverability in urban areas and should offer sufficient acceleration even on mountain climbs. This time, I rode on a slightly winding road in the suburbs, and the throttle response was excellent, making for an exhilarating ride. 
However, an engine with such good response can make riding in urban areas, where stop-and-go traffic is frequent, feel hectic. Furthermore, the gear ratio is low, so you'll need to select a gear one or two higher to reduce jerky movements. I 
also rode on the highway, and cruising at 100 km/h was certainly possible. However, because the gear ratio is low, the engine speeds are quite high even in top sixth gear, which may lead to fatigue on long rides. While this bike isn't designed for high-speed cruising, it's not a disadvantage, so adjusting the final gear to suit your riding conditions and the stage you're riding on is one option. Regardless, the water-cooled 
single-cylinder engine has brought a breath of fresh air to matte motorcycles. I expect it will continue to be adopted in a variety of models in the future.

High stability and smooth handling

In terms of ride comfort, Matt Motorcycle's bikes are generally on the stiff side. This is due to the stiff front and rear suspension and the lack of cushioning in the seat itself. In that respect, the DRK-01 is more or less the same. 
The DRK-01 features an inverted front fork and a dual shock absorber with a sub-tank in the rear. The suspension movement felt slightly smoother than other models. Furthermore, the spoke wheels are fitted with extra-thick 120/90-18 tires, which help absorb road shocks, making the ride less uncomfortable than I expected. It's perfectly fine for city riding or short trips to the suburbs, and it won't cause fatigue. Of course, it barely affects maneuverability. 
The tires are extra-thick block pattern, but I didn't notice any lack of grip on the road. I had imagined it might feel a bit bumpy, but that wasn't the case, and it provided excellent stability. Although it feels a little sticky when approaching corners, the handling is docile and allows for easy banking. It doesn't have sharp maneuverability, but that's precisely why I think it has handling that allows you to enjoy cornering with confidence. The rigidity of the newly designed double cradle frame also contributes to easy handling. 
The front single disc brake with a radially mounted four-piston caliper has a crisp lever feel and provides solid braking. The rear brake didn't seem particularly powerful, but I feel that it makes it easier to control speed.

The DRK-01 is equipped with the same features as modern road sports bikes, such as a powerful water-cooled DOHC single engine, inverted front forks, SAW-TOOTH rims with tubeless tires, a newly designed double cradle frame, and radial mount calipers.The styling design is reminiscent of the dirt track machines of the past, but the riding performance is comparable to modern bikes.I thought it was a bike that would make you feel nostalgic while also allowing you to enjoy riding in the modern era.

Detailed explanation

Main specifications

Engine type: Liquid-cooled single-cylinder DOHC 4-stroke 
Bore/Stroke: 250cc 72 x 61.2mm 
Maximum power: 250cc 20kw @ 9,500rpm (26hp) 
Maximum torque: 250cc 22Nm @ 7,000rpm 

Front suspension: Inverted fork Ø51mm / Ø37mm 
Rear suspension: Twin shock with separate reservoir tank and preload adjuster 
Front brakes: 4-piston caliper Ø25mm disc diameter 320mm 
Rear brakes: 2-piston caliper Ø25mm disc diameter 240mm 

Length x Width x Height: 2041mm x 791mm x 1094mm 
Seat height: 795mm 
Wheelbase: 1364mm 
Fuel tank capacity: 16L