Senin, 13 Desember 2021

1855 Burn Fat

1855 Burn Fat

  • Research
  • Open Access
  • Published:

Comparison of energy-restricted very low-carbohydrate and low-fat diets on weight loss and body composition in overweight men and women

  • MJ Sharman1,
  • AL Gómez1,
  • DA Judelson1,
  • MR Rubin1,
  • G Watson1,
  • B Sokmen1,
  • R Silvestre1,
  • DN French1 &
  • WJ Kraemer1

Nutrition & Metabolism volume 1, Article number:13 (2004) Cite this article

  • 113k Accesses

  • 96 Citations

  • 169 Altmetric

  • Metrics details

Abstract

Objective

To compare the effects of isocaloric, energy-restricted very low-carbohydrate ketogenic (VLCK) and low-fat (LF) diets on weight loss, body composition, trunk fat mass, and resting energy expenditure (REE) in overweight/obese men and women.

Design

Randomized, balanced, two diet period clinical intervention study. Subjects were prescribed two energy-restricted (-500 kcal/day) diets: a VLCK diet with a goal to decrease carbohydrate levels below 10% of energy and induce ketosis and a LF diet with a goal similar to national recommendations (%carbohydrate:fat:protein = ~60:25:15%).

Subjects

15 healthy, overweight/obese men (mean ± s.e.m.: age 33.2 ± 2.9 y, body mass 109.1 ± 4.6 kg, body mass index 34.1 ± 1.1 kg/m2) and 13 premenopausal women (age 34.0 ± 2.4 y, body mass 76.3 ± 3.6 kg, body mass index 29.6 ± 1.1 kg/m2).

Measurements

Weight loss, body composition, trunk fat (by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry), and resting energy expenditure (REE) were determined at baseline and after each diet intervention. Data were analyzed for between group differences considering the first diet phase only and within group differences considering the response to both diets within each person.

Results

Actual nutrient intakes from food records during the VLCK (%carbohydrate:fat:protein = ~9:63:28%) and the LF (~58:22:20%) were significantly different. Dietary energy was restricted, but was slightly higher during the VLCK (1855 kcal/day) compared to the LF (1562 kcal/day) diet for men. Both between and within group comparisons revealed a distinct advantage of a VLCK over a LF diet for weight loss, total fat loss, and trunk fat loss for men (despite significantly greater energy intake). The majority of women also responded more favorably to the VLCK diet, especially in terms of trunk fat loss. The greater reduction in trunk fat was not merely due to the greater total fat loss, because the ratio of trunk fat/total fat was also significantly reduced during the VLCK diet in men and women. Absolute REE (kcal/day) was decreased with both diets as expected, but REE expressed relative to body mass (kcal/kg), was better maintained on the VLCK diet for men only. Individual responses clearly show the majority of men and women experience greater weight and fat loss on a VLCK than a LF diet.

Conclusion

This study shows a clear benefit of a VLCK over LF diet for short-term body weight and fat loss, especially in men. A preferential loss of fat in the trunk region with a VLCK diet is novel and potentially clinically significant but requires further validation. These data provide additional support for the concept of metabolic advantage with diets representing extremes in macronutrient distribution.

Introduction

Recent reports showing a greater weight loss with a free-living very low-carbohydrate ketogenic (VLCK) than a low-fat diet after 3 and 6 months [1–5] has generated interest in mechanisms that may account for these responses. Earlier work that involved comparison of isocaloric formula VLCK and low-fat (LF) diets [6], indicated that weight loss was greater with a VLCK, suggesting a metabolic advantage (i.e., a greater weight loss with one diet over another with different macronutrient distribution but the same energy content) [7, 8].

Although several studies have shown that VLCK diets result in greater reductions in body mass, it remains unclear how these diets affect the composition of weight loss and the distribution of fat loss. Some early reports show that VLCK diets result in preferential loss of fat and preservation of lean body mass [9–12], suggestive of a nutrient partitioning effect. In accordance with this notion, we recently reported that a free-living 6-week VLCK diet prescribed to be isoenergetic resulted in significant decreases in fat mass and increases in lean body mass in normal-weight men [13]. However, other studies have not shown a preferential loss of fat on a VLCK diet [14]. No studies have examined the effects of a VLCK diet on the distribution of fat loss. Since accumulation of fat in the abdominal area is associated with insulin resistance, diabetes, dyslipidemias and atherosclerosis [15], demonstration of the effects of a VLCK diet on regional fat distribution is important.

Volek and Westman [16] have reviewed the potential favorable effects of VLCK diets while other reviews that have focused on the potential adverse effects of VLCK diets caution to avoid or limit their use [17–19]. Given the varying opinions in respect to VLCK diets, we thought it was important to provide additional information related to the effects of a VLCK diet on weight loss, body composition, and regional fat distribution. We previously reported that a VLCK diet has favorable effects on biomarkers for cardiovascular disease [20–22]. The primary purpose of this investigation was to compare the effects of isocaloric, energy-restricted (-500 kcal/day from estimated needs to maintain weight) VLCK and LF diets on weight loss, body composition, trunk fat, and REE in overweight men and women.

Methods

Subjects

A total of twenty-eight healthy volunteers (15 men and 13 women) were recruited by flyers and word-of-mouth. Subjects were between 20 and 55 y, nonsmokers, and greater than 25 percent body fat determined via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). Subjects went through a thorough screening procedure to ensure they would be committed to completing the study. Exclusion criteria included a body mass >145 kg (because of technical difficulties in performing DEXA), post-menopausal women, overt diabetes, cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, thyroid or any other metabolic disease, weight change ± 2 kg over the last month, adherence to special diets, use of nutritional supplements (except a daily multi-vitamin/mineral), and use of medications to control blood lipids or glucose. The majority of subjects were sedentary and were instructed not to start an exercise program during the study. Those who were active were instructed to maintain the same level of physical activity throughout the study. Baseline characteristics of men and women stratified by diet order are shown in Table 1 (see additional file 1). The study was conducted in accordance with the guidelines of the Institutional Review Board at the University of Connecticut.

Experimental Approach

Our primary research question was to compare VLCK and LF diets on weight loss, fat loss, and trunk fat loss. We addressed this in several ways. First, subjects were initially randomly assigned to either a LF or VLCK weight loss diet. Weight loss, body composition (fat mass and lean body mass), trunk fat, and resting energy expenditure (REE) were assessed before and after each diet (Phase I). Because there is often a great deal of variation in response to diet, we decided that a direct comparison of responses to a VLCK and LF diet should be made in the same person. To achieve this aim, we asked subjects to switch to the opposite diet after completion of the first diet period (Phase II), after which the same measurements were assessed (i.e., each subject consumed a VLCK and LF diet). This experimental approach allowed us to compare these two diets in two ways: a between group comparison of subjects who either consumed a VLCK or LF diet during Phase I, and a within group comparison of subjects who consumed both a VLCK and LF diet. The within group comparison was further analyzed to determine if the order of diets had any effect on the responses. Subjects kept detailed food diaries during three 1 wk periods (21 days total) of each diet. Men consumed each diet for 50 days whereas women consumed the diets for approximately 30 days in order to control for possible effects of menstrual phase on some of the dependent variables measured in this study [23, 24]. All testing for women was performed between days 2–4 of the follicular phase as self-reported by the women.

Diet Interventions

Both experimental diets were designed to be hypoenergetic (-500 kcal/day). Energy levels were assigned to the nearest 200 kcal increment based on REE obtained using indirect calorimetry at the start of the study and appropriate activity factors. Standard diabetic exchange lists were used to ensure a constant energy and macronutrient balance of protein (~20% energy), fat (~25% energy), and carbohydrate (~55% of energy) during the LF diet. The LF diet was also designed to contain <10% saturated fat and <300 mg cholesterol (i.e., a Step-I diet). Foods encouraged during the LF diet included whole grains (breads, cereals, and pastas), fruit/fruit juices, vegetables, vegetable oils, and low-fat dairy and meat products. We developed customized diabetic exchange lists for the VLCK diet period in order to ensure a constant energy and balance of protein (~30% energy), fat (~60% energy), and carbohydrate (~10% of energy) throughout the day. There were no restrictions on the type of fat from saturated and unsaturated sources or cholesterol levels. Foods commonly consumed on the VLCK diet were beef (e.g., hamburger, steak), poultry (e.g., chicken, turkey), fish, oils, various nuts/seeds and peanut butter, moderate amounts of vegetables, salads with low-carbohydrate dressing, moderate amounts of cheese, eggs, protein powder, and water or low-carbohydrate diet drinks. Low-carbohydrate bars and shakes (Atkins Nutritionals, Inc., Hauppauge, NY) were provided to subjects during the VLC diet. A daily multi-vitamin/mineral complex that provided micronutrients at levels ≤ 100% of the RDA was given to subjects during both experimental diets.

All subjects received extensive initial instruction and follow-up by registered dietitians on how to translate foods/meals into diabetic exchanges. Subjects were also provided with a packet outlining specific lists of appropriate foods, recipes, and sample meal plans that were compatible with their individual preferences for both experimental diets. Subjects received thorough instructions for completing detailed weighed food records during three 7-day periods (21 days total) for each diet. Food measuring utensils and scales were provided to subjects to ensure accurate reporting of food/beverage amounts consumed. Food diaries were analyzed for energy and macro/micronutrient content (NUTRITIONIST PRO™, Version 1.3, First Databank Inc, The Hearst Corporation, San Bruno, CA). The program had no missing values for the nutrients reported. The database was extensively modified by our group to include new foods and recipes.

To ensure that carbohydrates were restricted throughout the VLCK diet, subjects tested their urine daily using reagent strips (Bayer Corporation, Elkhart, IN) at the same time of day and recorded the result on log sheets. The test is specific for acetoacetic acid, which produces a relative color change when it reacts with nitroprusside. We have found this to be a very sensitive indicator of carbohydrate restriction and compliance to a VLCK diet in our prior studies [13, 21, 22, 25]. Subjects were required to report to the laboratory each week to monitor weight, dietary compliance, and check the level of ketones (during the VLCK diet only). Subjects received follow-up counseling and dietetic education in necessary.

Body Mass and Body Composition

Body mass and body composition were measured in the morning after a 12 h overnight fast. Body mass was recorded to the nearest 100 g on a digital scale (OHAUS Corp., Florham Park, NJ) with subjects either nude or wearing only underwear. Whole body and regional body composition were assessed using a fan-beam DEXA (Prodigy™, Lunar Corporation, Madison, WI). Regional analysis of the trunk was assessed according to anatomical landmarks by the same technician using computer algorithms (enCORE version 6.00.270). Coefficients of variation for lean body mass, fat mass, and bone mineral content on repeat scans with repositioning on a group of men and women in our laboratory were 0.4, 1.4, and 0.6%, respectively.

Resting Energy Expenditure

Resting energy expenditure measurements were made by indirect calorimetry (MedGraphics CPX/D, Medical Graphics Corporation, St. Paul, MN) after an overnight fast (>12 h) with subjects resting supine in comfortable thermoneutral conditions. The metabolic cart was calibrated with a standard gas mixture each morning. Subjects were instructed to relax quietly in a dimly lit room without sleeping for 30 min and oxygen consumption (VO2) and VCO2 were averaged during the last 20 min for determination of REE [26]. We assessed reliability on two subjects who were tested two times per day for six consecutive days. The coefficient of variation for REE (kJ/day) was 2.95% for duplicate measures on the same day and 6.20% between days.

Statistical Analysis

Changes in body weight, body composition, and REE between diets were assessed using independent t-tests for between group comparisons (i.e., Phase I responses) and dependent t-tests were used to assess within group comparisons. All statistical analyses were performed with Statistica 5.5 for windows (StatSoft Inc, Tulsa, OK). Significance was set at P ≤ 0.05.

Results

Dietary nutrient intakes (Table 2)

There were no differences in dietary nutrient intakes between groups at baseline. Subjects complied very well with the given instructions for both diet interventions according to analysis of diets records. During the diet interventions, all dietary nutrients were significantly different between the VLCK and LF diets with the exception of total dietary energy (women only) and alcohol (see additional file 1 Table 2). Dietary energy was higher during the VLCK than the LF diet in men. We achieved our goals for each diet with <25% of total energy coming from fat on the LF diet and <10% of total energy coming from carbohydrate on the VLCK diet. All subjects were in ketosis throughout the VLCK diet as indicated by color changes on the urinary reagent strips (data not shown), indicating compliance in terms of carbohydrate restriction.

Between group comparison of subjects who either consumed a VLCK or LF diet

The reductions in body mass, total fat mass, and trunk fat mass were significantly greater after the VLCK than the LF diet for men, but not for women (Fig 1). The greater reduction in trunk fat was not merely due to the greater total fat loss in men, because the ratio of trunk fat/total fat was also significantly reduced during the VLCK diet in men (VLCK 57.9 ± 1.8 to 57.1 ± 1.7%; LF 60.2 ± 1.3 to 61.4 ± 1.1%). Although the ratio of trunk fat/total fat in women was reduced more on the VLCK diet (51.9 ± 2.4 to 51.2 ± 2.3%) compared to the LF diet (44.2 ± 2.2 to 44.5 ± 2.3%), this was not significant. There were no significant differences in REE expressed in absolute terms between the VLCK diet (men 2005 ± 283 to 1865 ± 96; women 1177 ± 43 to 1161 ± 101 kcal/day) and the LF diet (men 2352 ± 316 to 2119 to 137; women 1319 ± 92 to 1224 ± 100 kcal/day). Expressed relative to body mass, REE was maintained in men consuming the VLCK diet (19.6 ± 0.7 to 19.8 ± 0.7 kcal/kg) but decreased on the LF diet (20.4 ± 1.0 to 19.0 ± 0.8 kcal/kg). As expected, the respiratory exchange ratio decreased on the VLCK compared to the LF diet further indicating compliance to the VLCK diet.

Figure 1
figure1

Mean decreases in body mass, total fat mass, trunk fat mass, and lean body mass in men who consumed a very low-carbohydrate ketogenic (VLCK) diet (n = 8) or a low-fat (LF) diet and in women who consumed a VLCK (n = 7) and LF (n = 6) diet. *P < 0.05 from LF change in men (independent t-test).

Full size image

Within group comparison of subjects who consumed both a VLCK and LF diet

Dependent t-tests were used to assess the difference between changes on the VLCK and LF diets. Again, the VLCK diet resulted in significantly greater reductions in body mass, total fat mass, and trunk fat mass for men. For these variables, the reductions were also significantly greater in women, in contrast to the results from between group comparisons (Fig 2). Individual data showing the comparison between diets for each person is shown for body mass (Fig 3), total fat mass (Fig 4), and trunk fat mass (Fig 5). In men, a majority benefited more from the VLCKD in terms of weight loss (11/15 subjects), total fat loss (11/15 subjects), and trunk fat loss (12/15 subjects). In women, a majority also benefited more from the VLCK diet in terms of weight loss (8/13 subjects), total fat loss (10/13 subjects), and trunk fat loss (12/13 subjects). It is noteworthy that 5 men showed more than a 10 pound difference in weight loss when the diets were compared. There was a preferential loss of fat in the trunk region as evidenced by significantly greater reduction in the ratio of trunk fat to total body fat after the VLCKD in both men and women. There were no significant differences in REE responses between diets.

Figure 2
figure2

Mean decreases in body mass, total fat mass, trunk fat mass, and lean body mass in men (n = 15) and women (n = 13) who consumed both a very low-carbohydrate ketogenic (VLCK) and a low-fat (LF) diet in a randomized and balanced fashion. *P < 0.05 from LF change (dependent t-test).

Full size image

Figure 3
figure3

Individual differences between weight loss on a very low-carbohydrate ketogenic (VLCK) diet minus weight loss on a low-fat (LF) diet for each person. Positive numbers reflect greater weight loss on the VLCK, whereas negative numbers indicate greater weight loss on the LF diet. Red circles = order of diets VLCK then LF. Blue diamonds = order of diets LF then VLCK.

Full size image

Figure 4
figure4

Individual differences between total fat loss on a very low-carbohydrate ketogenic (VLCK) diet minus total fat loss on a low-fat (LF) diet for each person. Positive numbers reflect greater weight loss on the VLCK, whereas negative numbers indicate greater weight loss on the LF diet. Red circles = order of diets VLCK then LF. Blue diamonds = order of diets LF then VLCK.

Full size image

Figure 5
figure5

Individual differences between trunk fat loss on a very low-carbohydrate ketogenic (VLCK) diet minus trunk fat loss on a low-fat (LF) diet for each person. Positive numbers reflect greater weight loss on the VLCK, whereas negative numbers indicate greater weight loss on the LF diet. Red circles = order of diets VLCK then LF. Blue diamonds = order of diets LF then VLCK.

Full size image

The results presented thus far indicate that VLCK diets result in superior weight loss and fat loss in men, and to a lesser extent in women, compared to a low-fat diet. To determine if this finding was influenced by the order the diets were implemented, we compared the responses to both diets between those who consumed the VLCK diet first to those who consumed the LF diet first. The individual responses to both diets over time are shown for body mass (Fig 6), total fat mass (Fig 7), and trunk fat mass (Fig 8). Statistically comparing the responses to a VLCK and LF diet within subjects, the only variable that was significantly affected by the order of the diet was body mass. In other words, the advantage of the VLCK over the LF diet was more dramatic for those who started the VLCK first. The individual responses reveal that three men and four women who did VLCK first, actually regained body mass and fat mass after the switch to the LF diet, whereas no subjects regained weight or fat mass after switching to the VLCK diet.

Figure 6
figure6

Individual changes in body mass in men (upper panels) and women (lower panels) who started on a very low-carbohydrate ketogenic (VLCK) and switched to a low-fat (LF) diet (left panels) and vice versa (right panels). Mean response is shown in red.

Full size image

Figure 7
figure7

Individual changes in total fat mass in men (upper panels) and women (lower panels) who started on a very low-carbohydrate ketogenic (VLCK) and switched to a low-fat (LF) diet (left panels) and vice versa (right panels). Mean response is shown in red.

Full size image

Figure 8
figure8

Individual changes in trunk fat mass in men (upper panels) and women (lower panels) who started on a very low-carbohydrate ketogenic (VLCK) and switched to a low-fat (LF) diet (left panels) and vice versa (right panels). Mean response is shown in red.

Full size image

Discussion

We previously reported superior responses with a VLCK over a LF diet in a number of cardiovascular risk factors in these subjects [25, 27]. The results of this study demonstrate that short-term VLCK diets also outperform LF diets in terms of weight loss and fat loss. These effects occurred despite apparently similar energy deficits between diets and in the case of men, significantly greater energy intake. Greater weight loss with a VLCK over a LF diet is consistent with the findings from other studies, and provides further support for the concept of metabolic advantage [7, 8]. Since food was not provided this conclusion cannot be made with certainty, but we find it highly unlikely that any potential error in quantifying energy intake would account for the dramatic differences in weight and fat loss between diets. We can say with confidence that we studied subjects that were restricting carbohydrates to very low levels as verified by dietary food records, urine ketones, and low resting respiratory exchange ratios obtained with indirect calorimetry.

The basic principle on which weight loss diets are based is to reduce dietary energy intake below energy expenditure. Whether the relative composition of macronutrients can influence the magnitude or composition of weight loss achieved on an energy-restricted diet has been a point of contention. Several comparisons of isocaloric VLCK and LF diets, like the current report, show greater weight loss on a VLCK diet [6, 16] supporting the long held notion of a metabolic advantage [28]. Given such evidence, it is difficult to understand the alternate position claiming a calorie must be a calorie in order to satisfy the first law of thermodynamics [29]. Although the origin of the difference in weight loss between VLCK and LF diets remains controversial, such a response clearly does not violate any thermodynamic laws [7]. Not all studies have shown greater weight loss with a VLCK diet [30] and the specific conditions that are required to elicit a metabolic advantage remain unknown.

One argument is that the greater weight loss on ad libitum VLCK diets is a result of spontaneously reducing energy intake [31], and this has been reported previously [32]. A reduction in energy intake on a VLCK diet has a logical physiologic basis and could account for a portion of the greater weight observed in studies that involved free-living ab libitum VLCK diets. Ketone levels increase several-fold on a VLCK diet, and β-hydroxybutyrate (the major circulating ketone body) has been shown to directly inhibit appetite [33]. Also, the low glycemic nature of a VLCKD may prevent transient dips in blood glucose, which can occur with higher carbohydrate diets. Thus, avoidance of hypoglycemic episodes may reduce appetite [34]. In this study we did not report a significantly lower energy intake on the VLCK compared to the LF diet. In fact, a higher energy intake was observed on the VLCK diet in men. In this case, it is often claimed that inaccurate reporting of dietary intake or errors in nutrient databases (e.g., overestimation of calories from certain cuts of meats) account for the greater weight reducing effects of VLCK diets. On the other hand, LF diets are frequently encouraged because of their high bulk and over-reporting seems as likely on a LF as a VLCK diet. In the absence of a clear reason why error in these studies should always go in one direction – LF rarely do better than VLCK – one has to take the data at face value. Also, the large difference in weight loss between men on the VLCK and LF diets in the present study suggests that at least some impact of macronutrient composition is being seen.

Metabolic advantage may occur on a VLCK diet due to the demand on protein turnover for gluconeogenesis [35], greater thermogenic effect of protein and loss of energy as heat [36, 37], and/or excretion of energy in the form of ketones via urine, feces, and/or sweat. Although we did not see a difference in REE, the metabolic advantage on a VLCK diet may be below the sensitivity of our measurements. Further, since REE was obtained in a postabsorptive state, this does not rule out a potential benefit derived from the acute postprandial thermic effect of protein ingestion. In terms of REE, there was a slight advantage for men on the VLCK diet when expressed relative to body mass, which could benefit long-term weight maintenance but this needs to be validated in studies of longer duration.

Although the issue of whether VLCK diets result in greater weight loss compared to LF diets has obvious significance, a primary purpose of this study and an equally important question relates to the composition of weight loss. In a meta-analysis, Garrow and Summerbell [38] predict from regression analysis that for a weight loss of 10 kg by dieting alone, the expected loss from fat mass is 71%. The few studies that have assessed body composition suggest that VLCK diets may result in preferential loss of fat mass. Benoit et al. [10] showed that a 10 day VLCK diet (4.2 MJ/day) resulted in a weight loss of -6.6 kg in obese men, 97% of which was fat mass. Young et al. [9] compared the effects of three isoenergetic (7.5 MJ/day), isoprotein (115 g/day) diets containing varying carbohydrate contents (30, 60, and 104 g/day) on weight loss and body composition in obese men. After 9 weeks, weight loss was 16.2, 12.8, and 11.9 kg and fat accounted for 95%, 84%, and 75% of the weight lost, respectively. Willi et al. [11] showed that an 8 week VLCK diet (2.7–3.0 MJ/day) resulted in a weight loss of -15.4 kg and an increase in lean body mass of +1.4 kg in obese adolescents. An 8-week VLCK diet in overweight women resulted in a decrease in body mass of -5 kg, 80% of which was fat mass [12]. Our laboratory recently reported that a 6 week VLCK diet resulted in significant decrease in body mass (-2.2 kg), entirely accounted for by a decrease in fat mass (-3.3 kg) and concomitant increases in lean body mass (+1.1 kg) in normal-weight men [13]. The body composition results from the present study are in closer agreement with predictions from the meta-analysis [38].

A novel and potentially clinically significant finding was a preferential loss of fat in the trunk region with a VLCK diet, which was approximately three-fold greater during the VLCK than the LF diet. Upper body fat carries a greater health risk than fat stored in other regions of the body and thus an effective weight loss approach should consider the regional distribution of fat loss. Proportionally, trunk fat mass comprised less of the total fat mass after the VLCK but not the LF diet. The mechanisms regulating composition of weight loss and distribution of fat loss during VLCK diets remain unclear, but could be mediated in part by changes in hormones such as insulin, leptin, or cortisol that could differentially impact nutrient partitioning.

In summary, this study showed greater weight loss and fat loss preferentially from the trunk region in subjects on a closely monitored free-living VLCK diet compared to a LF diet. These diets were prescribed to be energy restricted and isocaloric. The superiority of the VLCK diet over the LF diet was most dramatic for men, but when individual responses were examined, a group of women clearly showed metabolic advantage as well. Indeed, 12/13 women experienced greater fat loss in the trunk region during the VLCK diet compared to the low-fat diet. Such a response is consistent with a metabolic advantage of VLCK diets. The ultimate proof for such a theory will depend on the findings from carefully controlled feeding and metabolic studies that encompass physiological measurements to isolate plausible mechanisms.

References

  1. 1.

    Samaha FF, Iqbal N, Seshadri P, Chicano KL, Daily DA, McGrory J, Williams T, Williams M, Gracely EJ, Stern L: A low-carbohydrate as compared with a low-fat diet in severe obesity. N Engl J Med. 2003, 348: 2074-2081. 10.1056/NEJMoa022637.

    CAS  Article  Google Scholar

  2. 2.

    Sondike SB, Copperman N, Jacobson MS: Effects of a low-carbohydrate diet on weight loss and cardiovascular risk factor in overweight adolescents. J Pediatr. 2003, 142: 253-258. 10.1067/mpd.2003.4.

    CAS  Article  Google Scholar

  3. 3.

    Brehm BJ, Seeley RJ, Daniels SR, D'Alessio DA: A randomized trial comparing a very low carbohydrate diet and a calorie-restricted low fat diet on body weight and cardiovascular risk factors in healthy women. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2003, 88: 1617-1623. 10.1210/jc.2002-021480.

    CAS  Article  Google Scholar

  4. 4.

    Yancy WS, Olsen MK, Guyton JR, Bakst RP, Westman EC: A low-carbohydrate, ketogenic diet versus a low-fat diet to treat obesity and hyperlipidemia: a randomized, controlled trial. Ann Intern Med. 2004, 140: 769-777.

    Article  Google Scholar

  5. 5.

    Foster GD, Wyatt HR, Hill JO, McGuckin BG, Brill C, Mohammed BS, Szapary PO, Rader DJ, Edman JS, Klein S: A randomized trial of a low-carbohydrate diet for obesity. N Engl J Med. 2003, 348: 2082-2090. 10.1056/NEJMoa022207.

    CAS  Article  Google Scholar

  6. 6.

    Rabast U, Schonborn J, Kasper H: Dietetic treatment of obesity with low and high-carbohydrate diets: comparative studies and clinical results. Int J Obes. 1979, 3: 201-211.

    CAS  Google Scholar

  7. 7.

    Feinman RD, Fine EJ: Thermodynamics and metabolic advantage of reducing diets. Metab Syndr Rel Disord. 2003, 1: 209-219. 10.1089/154041903322716688.

    CAS  Article  Google Scholar

  8. 8.

    Feinman RD, Fine EJ: "A calorie is a calorie" violates the second law of thermodynamics. Nutr J. 2004, 3: 9-10.1186/1475-2891-3-9.

    Article  Google Scholar

  9. 9.

    Young CM, Scanlan SS, Im HS, Lutwak L: Effect of body composition and other parameters in obese young men of carbohydrate level of reduction diet. Am J Clin Nutr. 1971, 24: 290-296.

    CAS  Google Scholar

  10. 10.

    Benoit FL, Martin RL, Watten RH: Changes in body composition during weight reduction in obesity. Balance studies comparing effects of fasting and a ketogenic diet. Ann Intern Med. 1965, 63: 604-612.

    CAS  Article  Google Scholar

  11. 11.

    Willi SM, Oexmann MJ, Wright NM, Collop NA, Key LL: The effects of a high-protein, low-fat, ketogenic diet on adolescents with morbid obesity: body composition, blood chemistries, and sleep abnormalities. Pediatrics. 1998, 101: 61-67. 10.1542/peds.101.1.61.

    CAS  Article  Google Scholar

  12. 12.

    Meckling KA, Gauthier M, Grubb R, Sanford J: Effects of a hypocaloric, low-carbohydrate diet on weight loss, blood lipids, blood pressure, glucose tolerance, and body composition in free-living overweight women. Can J Physiol Pharmacol. 2002, 80: 1095-1105. 10.1139/y02-140.

    CAS  Article  Google Scholar

  13. 13.

    Volek JS, Sharman MJ, Love DM, Avery NG, Gomez AL, Scheett TP, Kraemer WJ: Body composition and hormonal responses to a carbohydrate-restricted diet. Metabolism. 2002, 51: 864-870. 10.1053/meta.2002.32037.

    CAS  Article  Google Scholar

  14. 14.

    Vazquez JA, Adibi SA: Protein sparing during treatment of obesity: ketogenic versus nonketogenic very low calorie diet. Metabolism. 1992, 41: 406-414. 10.1016/0026-0495(92)90076-M.

    CAS  Article  Google Scholar

  15. 15.

    Gasteyger C, Tremblay A: Metabolic impact of body fat distribution. J Endocrinol Invest. 2002, 25: 876-883.

    CAS  Article  Google Scholar

  16. 16.

    Volek JS, Westman EC: Very-low-carbohydrate weight-loss diets revisited. Cleve Clin J Med. 2002, 69: 849-853, 856-848 passim

    Article  Google Scholar

  17. 17.

    Blackburn GL, Phillips JC, Morreale S: Physician's guide to popular low-carbohydrate weight-loss diets. Cleve Clin J Med. 2001, 68: 761-765-766, 768-769, 773-764

    CAS  Article  Google Scholar

  18. 18.

    St Jeor ST, Howard BV, Prewitt TE, Bovee V, Bazzarre T, Eckel RH: Dietary protein and weight reduction: a statement for healthcare professionals from the Nutrition Committee of the Council on Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Metabolism of the American Heart Association. Circulation. 2001, 104: 1869-1874.

    CAS  Article  Google Scholar

  19. 19.

    Freedman MR, King J, Kennedy E: Popular diets: a scientific review. Obes Res. 2001, 9 (Suppl 1): 1S-40S.

    CAS  Article  Google Scholar

  20. 20.

    Volek JS, Gomez AL, Kraemer WJ: Fasting lipoprotein and postprandial triacylglycerol responses to a low-carbohydrate diet supplemented with n-3 fatty acids. J Am Coll Nutr. 2000, 19: 383-391.

    CAS  Article  Google Scholar

  21. 21.

    Sharman MJ, Kraemer WJ, Love DM, Avery NG, Gomez AL, Scheett TP, Volek JS: A ketogenic diet favorably affects serum biomarkers for cardiovascular disease in normal-weight men. J Nutr. 2002, 132: 1879-1885.

    CAS  Google Scholar

  22. 22.

    Volek JS, Sharman MJ, Gomez AL, Scheett TP, Kraemer WJ: An isoenergetic very low carbohydrate diet improves serum HDL cholesterol and triacylglycerol concentrations, the total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol ratio and postprandial pipemic responses compared with a low fat diet in normal weight, normolipidemic women. J Nutr. 2003, 133: 2756-2761.

    CAS  Google Scholar

  23. 23.

    Quinton ND, Laird SM, Okon MA, Li TC, Smith RF, Ross RJ, Blakemore AI: Serum leptin levels during the menstrual cycle of healthy fertile women. Br J Biomed Sci. 1999, 56: 16-19.

    CAS  Google Scholar

  24. 24.

    Webb P: 24-hour energy expenditure and the menstrual cycle. Am J Clin Nutr. 1986, 44: 614-619.

    CAS  Google Scholar

  25. 25.

    Volek JS, Sharman MJ, Gomez AL, DiPasquale C, Roti M, Pumerantz A, Kraemer WJ: Comparison of a very low-carbohydrate and low-fat diet on fasting lipids, LDL subclasses, insulin resistance, and postprandial lipemic responses in overweight women. J Am Coll Nutr. 2004, 23: 177-184.

    Article  Google Scholar

  26. 26.

    Weir JBV: New method for calculating metabolic rate with special reference to protein metabolism. J Physiol. 1949, 109: 1-9.

    Article  Google Scholar

  27. 27.

    Sharman MJ, Gomez AL, Kraemer WJ, Volek JS: Very low-carbohydrate and low-fat diets affect fasting lipids and postprandial lipemia differently in overweight men. J Nutr. 2004, 134: 880-885.

    CAS  Google Scholar

  28. 28.

    Atkins R: Dr. Atkins New Diet Revolution. 1992, New York: Avon Books

    Google Scholar

  29. 29.

    Buchholz AC, Schoeller DA: Is a calorie a calorie?. Am J Clin Nutr. 2004, 79: 899S-906S.

    CAS  Google Scholar

  30. 30.

    Meckling KA, O'Sullivan C, Saari D: Comparison of a low-fat diet to a low-carbohydrate diet on weight loss, body composition, and risk factors for diabetes and cardiovascular disease in free-living, overweight men and women. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2004, 89: 2717-2723. 10.1210/jc.2003-031606.

    CAS  Article  Google Scholar

  31. 31.

    Bray GA: Low-carbohydrate diets and realities of weight loss. Jama. 2003, 289: 1853-1855. 10.1001/jama.289.14.1853.

    Article  Google Scholar

  32. 32.

    Yudkin J, Carey M: The treatment of obesity by the "high-fat" diet: the inevitability of calories. Lancet. 1960, 939-941. 10.1016/S0140-6736(60)92019-5.

    Google Scholar

  33. 33.

    Arase K, Fisler JS, Shargill NS, York DA, Bray GA: Intracerebroventricular infusions of 3-OHB and insulin in a rat model of dietary obesity. Am J Physiol. 1988, 255: R974-981.

    CAS  Google Scholar

  34. 34.

    Melanson KJ, Westerterp-Plantenga MS, Saris WH, Smith FJ, Campfield LA: Blood glucose patterns and appetite in time-blinded humans: carbohydrate versus fat. Am J Physiol. 1999, 277: R337-345.

    CAS  Google Scholar

  35. 35.

    Bisschop PH, Pereira Arias AM, Ackermans MT, Endert E, Pijl H, Kuipers F, Meijer AJ, Sauerwein HP, Romijn JA: The effects of carbohydrate variation in isocaloric diets on glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis in healthy men. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2000, 85: 1963-1967. 10.1210/jc.85.5.1963.

    CAS  Google Scholar

  36. 36.

    Kasper H, Thiel H, Ehl M: Response of body weight to a low carbohydrate, high fat diet in normal and obese subjects. Am J Clin Nutr. 1973, 26: 197-204.

    CAS  Google Scholar

  37. 37.

    Jequier E: Pathways to obesity. Int J Obes Relat Metab Disord. 2002, 26 (Suppl 2): S12-17. 10.1038/sj.ijo.0802123.

    CAS  Article  Google Scholar

  38. 38.

    Garrow JS, Summerbell CD: Meta-analysis: effect of exercise, with or without dieting, on the body composition of overweight subjects. Eur J Clin Nutr. 1995, 49: 1-10.

    CAS  Google Scholar

Download references

Acknowledgments

This study was supported by a grant from The Dr. Robert C. Atkins Foundation, New York, NY.

Author information

Affiliations

  1. Human Performance Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut, 2095 Hillside Road, Unit-1110, Storrs, CT, 06269-1110, USA

    JS Volek, MJ Sharman, AL Gómez, DA Judelson, MR Rubin, G Watson, B Sokmen, R Silvestre, DN French & WJ Kraemer

Corresponding author

Correspondence to JS Volek.

Electronic supplementary material

12986_2004_13_MOESM1_ESM.doc

Additional File 1: Table 1. Baseline characteristics of men and women based on their starting diet. Table 2. Daily intakes of dietary energy and nutrients at baseline and during both diets. (DOC 50 KB)

Authors' original submitted files for images

About this article

Cite this article

Volek, J., Sharman, M., Gómez, A. et al. Comparison of energy-restricted very low-carbohydrate and low-fat diets on weight loss and body composition in overweight men and women. Nutr Metab (Lond) 1, 13 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1186/1743-7075-1-13

Download citation

  • Received:

  • Accepted:

  • Published:

  • DOI : https://doi.org/10.1186/1743-7075-1-13

Keywords

  • weight loss
  • Atkins diet
  • hormones
  • abdominal fat
  • regional body composition
  • low-carbohydrate diet

1855 Burn Fat

Source: https://nutritionandmetabolism.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1743-7075-1-13

Share:

Minggu, 05 Desember 2021

Klx 250 2019

Klx 250 2019

Kawasaki's profilation of this bike
Exceptional ground clearance for tackling off-road obstacles.

General information
Model: Kawasaki KLX250
Year: 2019
Category: Super motard
Price as new: US$ 5349. MSRP depends on country, taxes, accessories, etc.
Rating: 3.3  Check out the detailed rating of off-road capabilities, engine performance, maintenance cost, etc. Compare with any other bike.
Engine and transmission
Displacement: 249.0 ccm (15.19 cubic inches)
Engine type: Single cylinder, four-stroke
Power: 21.5 HP (15.7 kW)) @ 7500 RPM
Torque: 20.5 Nm (2.1 kgf-m or 15.1 ft.lbs) @ 7000 RPM
Compression: 11.0:1
Bore x stroke: 72.0 x 61.2 mm (2.8 x 2.4 inches)
Valves per cylinder: 4
Fuel system: Injection. DFI® with 34mm throttle body
Fuel control: Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
Ignition: Digital CDI
Lubrication system: Forced lubrication, wet sump
Cooling system: Liquid
Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type,
final drive:
Chain
Clutch: Wet multi-disc, manual
Driveline: Sealed chain
Chassis, suspension, brakes and wheels
Frame type: Tubular, semi-double cradle
Rake (fork angle): 26.6°
Trail: 106 mm (4.2 inches)
Front suspension: Telescopic fork/10.0 in
Front wheel travel: 255 mm (10.0 inches)
Rear suspension: Uni-Trak. Compression damping: 20-way. Rebound damping: 20-way. Spring preload: Fully adjustable.
Rear wheel travel: 230 mm (9.1 inches)
Front tire: 3.00-21
Rear tire: 4.60-18
Front brakes: Single disc. Dual-piston
Diameter: 250 mm (9.8 inches)
Rear brakes: Single disc. Single-piston
Diameter: 240 mm (9.4 inches)
Wheels: Wire spoked
Physical measures and capacities
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc: 138.0 kg (304.3 pounds)
Seat height: 890 mm (35.0 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall height: 1205 mm (47.4 inches)
Overall length: 2200 mm (86.6 inches)
Overall width: 820 mm (32.3 inches)
Ground clearance: 285 mm (11.2 inches)
Wheelbase: 1430 mm (56.3 inches)
Fuel capacity: 7.70 litres (2.03 US gallons)
Other specifications
Color options: Lime Green
Starter: Electric
Update specs Report missing specs or required updates.
Further information
Insurance costs Compare US insurance quotes from the nation's top providers.
Finance options Compare US motorcycle loan quotes from the nation's top providers.
Parts finder Revzilla offers up to 50% off motorcycle accessories.Accessories Ships to most countries. CMSNL provides online schematics & OEM partsParts and ships to Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Belgium, Canada, China, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Malta, Montenegro, The Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Ukraine, United Kingdom, The United States and more. Also check out our overview of motorcycle webshops at Bikez.info.
Maintenance Find parts, fluids. filters, maintenance tools and service manuals at Amazon.com.
Ask questions Join the 19 Kawasaki KLX250 discussion group or the general Kawasaki discussion group.
Related bikes List related bikes for comparison of specs.


 

Buying a bike starts at Bikez

Get a list of related motorbikes before you buy this Kawasaki. Inspect technical data. Look at photos. Read the riders' comments at the bike's discussion group. And check out the bike's reliability, repair costs, etc. Show any 2019 Kawasaki KLX250 for sale on our Bikez.biz Motorcycle Classifieds. You can also sign up for e-mail notification when such bikes are advertised in the future. And advertise your old MC for sale. Our efficient ads are free. You are also welcome to read and submit motorcycle reviews.


Rating sample for this Kawasaki bike
Offroad capabilities for the 2019 Kawasaki KLX250:

Vote scale
bar (74.9 out of 100)

Click here for complete rating. You can also compare bikes.

Pictures, trademarks and logos of third parties are the exclusive property of the respective owners. Technical specifications are subject to change without notice. Bikez.com has been developed by ObjectLabs.


Klx 250 2019

Source: https://bikez.com/motorcycles/kawasaki_klx250_2019.php

Share:

250 Duke 2017

250 Duke 2017

undefined

What if I told you the new KTM 250 Duke is as refined as a Japanese motorcycle? As incredulous as it may sound, the 250 Duke surprised us with its performance and the fact that it is so much easier to live with than the 200 Duke despite the higher power output. But does that mean the 250 Duke loses out on the traits that makes KTM bikes stand apart from the competition? We beg to differ.

2017 KTM 250 Duke Road Test Review

Orange is the new black
You'd be forgiven to mistake the 250 Duke, at first glance, for the larger 390 Duke. While the previous generation 390 and 200 Duke shared the same bodywork, the new models have the 200 Duke carry the old bodywork and frame. The 250 Duke gets the new 390 Duke's frame and bodywork, minus the all-LED headlamp. Instead, it gets a similar-shaped unit with a regular halogen setup lined with an inverted U-shaped DRL. Illumination might not be as good as an LED setup but it does give you a bright and wide spread.

2017 KTM 250 Duke Road Test Review

It also misses out on the Duke 390's colour TFT instrument panel. Instead, you get the 200 Duke's monochrome LCD console. That's disappointing as the rpm bar is small and hard to read on the move, and moreover the 390 Duke's TFT colour screen has really spoilt us. Rest of the switchgear, however, is carried over from the 200 Duke. It does not feel as tactile as, say, Kawasaki switchgear, but still retains a solid feel that seems built to last.

2017 KTM 250 Duke Road Test Review

As you move back, the split trellis frame grabs your attention as does the sharp contoured tank in white. It also comes in bright KTM orange. The tail section neatly integrates a clear lens LED tail lamp. Overall, it looks as sharp as the new 390 Duke but has a slightly more mature air around it. The new 390 Duke looks brutish, the 250 Duke suave. The changes have it gain an additional 13kgs over the 200 Duke but then it also makes more power and torque.

2017 KTM 250 Duke Road Test Review

Smooth operator
Powering the 250 Duke is a 248.8cc, liquid-cooled and fuel injected motor that essentially is a  downsized engine block from the 390 Duke, which makes 30PS and 24Nm. Thats 5PS and 5Nm over the 200 Duke, which feels enough. And honestly, peak figures is not what the motor is about. This one impresses with its performance and tractability. It does make power fairly higher up in the rev range, with its 30PS coming up at 9000rpm and 24Nm available at 7000rpm. It is not a buzzy or eager motor but rather feels like a Kawasaki engine, making good progress till 4000rpm and thereon starting to properly wake up and tapering off post 9500rpm. Power does not come in a gush, rather a smooth flow with a much stronger midrange than the 200 Duke.

2017 KTM 250 Duke Road Test Review

Putting the 250 Duke through the VBox performance test, we achieved a 0-60kmph acceleration time of 3.51 seconds and a 0-100kmph acceleration time of 8.49 seconds. These numbers make it the quickest 250cc bike around. Refinement is of top order too, with negligible vibes through the rev band, with minor buzzing emanating from the footpegs close to the redline.

2017 KTM 250 Duke Road Test Review

But this motor does run fairly hot. Fifteen minutes of traffic running will have the temperature gauge on the LCD display in the higher zone. It does not, however, affect the rider that much. The hot air is well directed under and away from the rider and it is only when you are stuck in standstill traffic that will you feel the heat -- but it's a small bother at best.

.

2017 KTM 250 Duke Road Test Review

Gearing is a tad on the shorter side given the motor's penchant to make most of its power higher up. This is a tractable motor, taking 4.35 seconds for the 30-70kmph roll-on test in third gear and 6.09 seconds for going from 40 to 80kmph in fourth gear. The shorter gearing also allows the motor to run unstressed in traffic in as high as fourth gear at speeds upto 50kmph, making for a fuel efficiency of 41kmpl. On the highway, at speeds between 80-90kmph, it dropped to 35.66kmpl. A 13.5-litre fuel tank capacity should give you a theoretical highway range of around 480 kilometres on a tankful.

2017 KTM 250 Duke Road Test Review

You also get a slipper clutch, which makes riding angry on hill roads seem like a calm and collected affair, with nary a hop from the rear wheel when downshifting hard. Shifts themselves are smooth and precise and with a light clutch actuation, makes it effortless to ride. On the highway, it makes decent progress till the 125kmph mark. Post that, it takes a lot of time to reach its top speed. We managed 131kmph (true speed) though we reckon it should cross 140kmph given time and a long stretch of tarmac. Wind blast is not much of an issue but then again you won't be hitting too much of a high speed with this.

2017 KTM 250 Duke Road Test Review

Comfortable?
he 2017 Duke frame also gets a revised riding position thanks to new chassis geometry. Gone is the commited and uncomfortable riding posture, and in its place is a more upright stance. Seat height has increased by 20mm over the 200 Duke, to 830mm. The seat too is wider now and does not pose much of a problem for long rides. Another major upgrade is the new 43mm upside-down WP open cartridge forks and rear monoshock with separate gas and oil chambers for enhance cooling - picked up from the new 390 Duke. Ride has improved considerably and the 250 Duke just dismisses most bad road surfaces and potholes. It is still set up on the stiffer side but the rider is now better insulated from the road surface. Sharp edges and ridges too are taken care of without much of a bother to the rider. Pillion riders will rejoice at the extra comfort afforded by the longer and wider rear seat.

2017 KTM 250 Duke Road Test Review

The stiffer setup and shorter wheelbase results in a more reactive KTM. Its 1357mm wheelbase is shorter than the 200 Duke's 1366mm, which makes it almost as agile as the 390 Duke. A quick turning front end makes this quite lively, but it is also one which can catch a novice rider off. It is almost as capable as the 390 Duke, only held back by the MRF REVZ tyres it comes shod with. They get the job done but miss out on the outright grip that the faster wearing and more expensive Metzelers offer. It's not a bad trade off, even during hard braking, with the tyres gripping well and eliciting minimal drama.

2017 KTM 250 Duke Road Test Review

Braking is similar to the 200 Duke's setup. You get a 300mm front disc clamped to a radially mounted Bybre callipers while the rear gets a 230mm disc. It misses out on ABS. The Bybre brakes offer good feedback and a strong bite with plenty of feel from the brake lever. Under braking tests 100-0kmph takes 4.05 seconds taking 51.38 metres while 80-0kmph takes 3.62 seconds taking 33.95 metres.

2017 KTM 250 Duke Road Test Review

Yay or Nay!
The 250 Duke sits in a comfortable spot in the KTM India lineup. Pricewise the 200 Duke retails at Rs 1.49 (ex-showroom, Delhi) while the 390 Duke costs Rs 2.39 lakh. The 250 Duke, at Rs 1.78 lakh, cost just 29,000 more than the 200 Duke. So if you can stretch your budget by that much, the 250 Duke is the way to go. The 390 Duke meanwhile, sits in a different segment altogether with its higher price difference, more power and features.

2017 KTM 250 Duke Road Test Review

The 250 Duke trades the KTM's rortiness for refinement, and we think, is all the better for it.  It makes a compelling prospect if you are looking for a premium, comfortable and dynamic runaround on a budget under Rs two lakh. If this was two years ago, you would be looking at the Honda CBR 250 R. It does have its quirks, like a difficult to read instrument console, and sharp handling traits that might bother a novice rider, but when it comes to the best you can buy in this price range, the KTM 250 Duke is there at the very top.

Words by: Benjamin Gracias

Photography by: Vikrant Date

More on KTM 250 Duke

KTM 250 Duke

rvmp_gorp_popup

You May Also Like

  • 2017 KTM 390 Duke: Road Test Review

    2017 KTM 390 Duke: Road Test Review

    • Oct 23, 2017
    • Views : 48169
  • KTM 250 Duke: First Ride Review

    KTM 250 Duke: First Ride Review

    • Feb 28, 2017
    • Views : 46733
  • KTM 390 Duke Gets Updated for 2018

    KTM 390 Duke Gets Updated for 2018

    • Jan 16, 2018
    • Views : 36185
  • Top 5 Motorcycle Launches In 2017

    Top 5 Motorcycle Launches In 2017

    • Dec 28, 2017
    • Views : 14380
  • TVS Apache RR 310 BTO Review: Tailored To Your Needs

    TVS Apache RR 310 BTO Review: Tailored To Your Needs

    • Nov 21, 2021
    • Views : 3585
  • 2022 TVS Apache RR 310 First Ride Review: Now Made Just For You!

    2022 TVS Apache RR 310 First Ride Review: Now Made Just For You!

    • Sep 2, 2021
    • Views : 8729
  • Long Term Review: Introducing TVS Eurogrip ProTorq Extreme Tyres For KTM 390 Duke

    Long Term Review: Introducing TVS Eurogrip ProTorq Extreme Tyres For...

    • Mar 29, 2021
    • Views : 13783
  • TVS Apache RR 310 BS6 Road Test Review

    TVS Apache RR 310 BS6 Road Test Review

    • Jul 7, 2020
    • Views : 18499
  • 2020 TVS Apache RR310 First Ride Review

    2020 TVS Apache RR310 First Ride Review

    • Feb 1, 2020
    • Views : 17910
  • 2019 TVS Apache RR 310: First Ride Review

    2019 TVS Apache RR 310: First Ride Review

    • May 28, 2019
    • Views : 12361

250 Duke 2017

Source: https://www.zigwheels.com/reviews-advice/reviews/ktm-250-duke-road-test-review/29623/

Share:

2014 Honda Nm4

2014 Honda Nm4

Photos by Didier Constant

Some things just weren't meant to be. The Honda NM4 is one of those things. But, someone at Honda, probably a blood relative executive of the NM4's 20-something designer, thought it should go into production, so here it is.

I recently spent a day with the bike, and have been in hiding ever since.

THE GOOD

2015_Honda_NM4_lsr
Is the NM4 in danger of becoming the DN-02?

Beneath the NM4's bizarre bodywork there's actually a proven, competent drive train. It uses the same 745 cc, liquid-cooled parallel twin you'll find in the NC750 models. The engine claims 54 horsepower and a peak torque of 50 lb.-ft. at just 4,750 rpm, and has proven to be very fuel efficient (the European model claims 3.5L/100 km). This should give it a theoretical range of about 330 km from its diminutive 11.6-litre fuel tank.

2015_Honda_NM4_DCT
Dual clutch transmission if not found on the NM4's NC brethren.

The engine uses a 270-degree crankshaft, which improves low-end torque and gives it a V-twin-like sound. It's lively and pulls in a very linear manner, a characteristic that transfers from its NC brethren.

Where it differs from the NC models, at least here in North America, is in the choice of transmissions. It uses a six-speed, dual-clutch gearbox with two automatic modes (Drive and Sport), and a semi-automatic mode that allows you to shift gears via a pair of switches on the left handlebar. The dual-clutch transmission lends to a much smoother, scooter-like power delivery when in Drive mode.

2015_Honda_NM4_lsf_studio
A lot of other journalists have drawn the comparison to something that Batman would ride or something out of Japanese Anime. It's certainly different.

The engine is wrapped in a diamond-shaped frame with cruiser-ish steering geometry: Rake is 33 degree, trail is 110 mm, and wheelbase is 1,645 mm, which is about 100 mm longer than the NC750 X or S. Wet weight is 245 kg (540 lb), but it feels much lighter because of the laid-down design of the engine (the NC cylinders are canted forward 62 degrees).

Suspension components are pretty straightforward: there's a 43 mm telescopic fork up front and a single shock in the rear. Compliance is middle-of-the-road, providing good bump absorption … for a single rider at a modest pace.

2015_Honda_NM4_front-storage2
Those frontal wings do actually have storage capacity, but not much.

Although its angular plastic draws stares, at least it's not completely wasted on appearance alone. Up front in the fairing batwings there are two lockable storage compartments, the left one containing one litre of storage and a 12-volt outlet, the right one containing three litres. Behind the rider are two integrated saddlebags.

Although the floorboards are mounted quite far forward, the flat, drag-style handlebar has ample pullback, and the riding position is surprisingly comfortable, mostly attributable to the adjustable rider backrest. The backrest pad is angle-adjustable in three positions and can be moved forward or rearward by 25 mm in four increments. It can also be folded flat, doubling as a passenger pillion.

2015_Honda_NM4_dash
The wings also hold the mirrors but despite all that plastic, the NM4 does not offer much protection from the chest up.

The dashboard is all LCD and easy to read, and the backlighting changes hues depending on which drive mode is chosen (D, S, or M). A rider can personalise the dash, selecting from 25 different colours.

The bike handles well; it's stable and super-smooth, and the dual-clutch transmission shifts almost seamlessly in Drive mode. It holds gears longer in Sport mode, providing a better kick when you punch the throttle to make a pass. If you prefer to change gears on your own terms, just select Manual mode and use the buttons on the left-hand switch assembly; the forward-mounted button gears up, the rear-mounted button gears down.

ABS is standard, and braking is non-linked, so nothing special to report here other than a slightly wooden feel at the lever.

THE BAD

2015_Honda_NM4_ride_lhs
Passenger seat comes up to support the rider – a big help against the push of the wind and the feet forward position.

While the rider backrest is mostly comfy, unfortunately it can only be adjusted using the ignition key, meaning you can't pull it up or readjust it if it's set too high while riding. It also slaps you in the back when hitting larger bumps, so it might be more desirable to lower it in town, especially if the roads are poorly maintained.

2015_Honda_NM4_ride_lsf
Handling is a bit pendulous.

The funky fairing has a brash, broad-shouldered frontal profile, and it does offer some wind protection for your hands and torso, but from your chest up you're exposed to the full force of the windblast. It's buffet-free, which is a good thing, and if you wish to further reduce your exposure to the elements, Honda offers a tall accessory windscreen for $245.

2015_Honda_NM4_rhs-bag
Rear integrated bag look big until you open them.

And those handy saddlebags? They actually look much larger than they are, being just large enough to hold a box of condoms, though ironically it's unlikely you'll be using them after being seen on the NM4.

Although the suspension works well enough at a modest pace and without a load, if you do need to make an adjustment you'll have to buy another bike, as there's no adjustment to speak of.

Despite this, the NM4 handles well, its hand and foot-forward riding position makes it feel like you're sitting on the pivot point of a pendulum every time you take a curve, giving the impression the bike is swinging away from you every time it leans. It's not disconcerting, just odd and takes a bit of getting used to. There's a modest amount of cornering clearance, and riding at a comfortable, slightly elevated pace produced no sparks from the footboard feelers.

THE UGLY

2015_Honda_NM4_lhs
Is there beauty there?

Well, just look at it.

Okay, the NM4 is definitely a curiosity. I did get a thumbs-up from a scooter rider who probably had no more clue as to what it is than I do. People will stare, snap pictures with their cell phones, and sometimes point – get used to it.

CONCLUSION

2015_Honda_NM4_lsf_shoot
The NM4 is an interesting styling exercise, but have Honda fallen in the DN-01 trap again? It's a more practical motorcycle and at a lower price, but it's still 'out there' and more expensive than the competition.

Many people have already made comparisons to the ill-fated DN-01, but despite its outlandish styling, the NM4 is a much more practical motorcycle. Although minimal, there is some storage space available on the NM4, and at $12,499 it's much more affordable than the DN-01 was. However, it costs $3,500 more than Honda's own NC750S, and even costs $1,050 more than BMW's C650GT maxi scooter, which is more practical if auto-shifting is a priority.

2015_Honda_NM4_ride_front
The crowds swarm Costa to see the NM4.

It's an oddball of a motorcycle though there's some retribution from the rider's perch; most of the bike is unseen from this vantage point, so it's easy to forget what it looks like. And who knows, maybe its stealthy appearance will cheat police radar.

Honda currently makes what I believe to be the most appealing and attractive Japanese motorcycle, the CB1100, and yet the same company also produces this three-dimensional reproduction of an anime character's prop.

I don't get it, but I sure do appreciate that Honda has the balls to offer it as a production bike, and the company does claim that the "outrageous anime appearance represents the vision of a young, skunkworks design team from deep within Honda R&D", which I assume means that it's meant for a new, younger audience. Whether they're right or not remains to be seen, but time will surely tell.


GALLERY

Check out all the pics that go with this story! Click on the main sized pic to transition to the next or just press play to show in a slideshow.


2014 Honda Nm4

Source: https://canadamotoguide.com/2014/11/01/the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly-of-hondas-nm4/

Share:
 
banner