If absolute power corrupts absolutely, then Husqvarna's latest offering, the SM610 Supermoto, can expect a call from the Scorpions very, very soon.
With a claimed 39kW at the flywheel, the 576cc, single-cylinder engine is more of an adrenalin pump than those in most rival machines displacing a full 650cc. It's tucked away in a taut-handling package weighing only 142 kg and its capacity to corrupt is, well, absolute.
The Husqvarna SM610 was designed to give Supermotard fans everyday road transport that can double as a track tool. Its liquid-cooled, big bore / short stroke 576cc engine (98 x 76.4mm) gives the Supermoto enormous bottom-end grunt while allowing it to rev freely, producing maximum power at 7 000rpm.
The tried and tested four-valve single has been uprated with a forged, high-compression piston, a Keihin MX 41 carburettor and redesigned airbox, ignition system and exhaust.
It has a balance shaft to dampen vibration and the cooling system has been improved to soak up the heat created by the sweating of all those extra horses.
Two oil pumps prevent the moving parts from welding themselves together; one feeds the cylinder and head, the other sends lubricant to the crankcase and six-speed transmission.
A new timing-chain tensioner reduces engine noise, and there is, of course, an electric starter.
Marco Liberatore of SA distributor Italmoto said: "The SM610 is a perfect compromise between racing technology and comfort-oriented design, with styling that can only be described as wickedly sexy.
"The designers in Milan gave it a headlight grille that acts as a mini-windscreen and the digital instrumentation displays all the normal warning lights along with readouts for speed, distance travelled, revs and time."
The bike also checks when its next service is due.
The frame has been braced to stand up to years of road use while careful positioning of the engine and ancillaries has resulted in a seat height of only 910mm.
Saddlebags are also available, that fit onto clips provided on the rear sub-frame and mudguard.
The handlebars and controls are similar to those of the SM450 / 510R racing versions, with the addition of a four-way adjustable brake lever.
The suspension and brakes are the same as those found on the smaller-engined race bikes - 45mm Marzocchi inverted forks adjustable for compression and rebound damping in front.
A fully adjustable Sachs rear monoshock is mounted on a redesigned linkage with a new progression curve to cope with riding two up or with luggage.
The brakes are by industry leaders Brembo, as on the racing models, with a new four-piston calliper and individual brake pads on a floating 320mm disc in front; a single-piston Brembo floating calliper attends to the 220mm disc at the rear.
The new Husqvarna SM610 costs R69 000, which includes a one-year factory warranty.