Yamaha Motor Australia has confirmed the date of the third annual WR250R Rally, scheduled to take place on 22-24 March at Cessnock in New South Wales.
The first event attracted 38 owners, while the second event saw 64 riders of the versatile Yamaha trail bike congregate in Cessnock for a two-day 500km adventure ride. Now, Greg Yager and the RideADV team are aiming to entice the biggest ever collection of WR250Rs to converge in one spot.
This year’s event will once again be hosted by dirt bike legend Chris Watson of Chris Watson’s Motorcycles, covering prime trails around the Hunter region including the Watagan, Olney and Yengo State Forests.
Prizes are awarded for a number of categories including best bike and furthest travelled. Now in its third year, the event attracts a wide range of riders. For more information, visit www.yamaha-motor.com.au.
Breathing system introduced to Australian market by McLeod Accessories.
McLeod Accessories has introduced the AC Performance Systems Sport Band to Australian market, a product used by a number of the sport’s leading riders across the globe.
Breathing through your mouth leads to over-breathing, hyperventilation, dehydration, depleted carbon dioxide levels, vasoconstriction (constriction of the blood vessels), and reduced blood circulation during exercise.
Image: Supplied.
So what does that mean? It means that your body is not getting enough oxygen to your brain or your blood when you’re huffing and puffing through your mouth. You are losing a lot of water when you exhale through your mouth, and your blood vessels are getting squeezed smaller and smaller with each mouth breath you take.
What you need to do is breathe through your nose the way your body was designed to breathe. This creates the proper mixture of gasses coursing through your blood for optimal health and performance. When you breathe through your nose, your body re-breathes the expelled carbon dioxide and the nitric oxide that is naturally produced in your sinuses.
Both of these gasses are vasodilators (blood vessel openers) which deliver more oxygen to the brain and muscles faster. Breathing in and out through the nose actually helps you take fuller, deeper breaths, which stimulates the lower lung to distribute greater amounts of oxygen throughout the entire body.
Image: Supplied.
When the lower lung is stimulated, it triggers the parasympathetic nervous system which calms the body and mind. Mouth breathing only uses the upper lung, triggering the sympathetic nervous system, which activates the fight or flight reaction and stresses the body and mind.
The AC Sport Band is a very simple, but incredibly effective device that allows you to breathe through your nose. It is a non-invasive magnetic band that comfortably sits on the bridge of your nose, pulling your nose open far beyond normal capacity, making nose breathing effortless.
Priced at RRP $45.95, the AC Sport Band can be purchased at participating dealers and online retailers around the country. For more information, visit www.mcleodaccessories.com.au.
Motorcycling Australia (MA), have confirmed that motorcycle racing is set to return to Barbagallo Raceway in 2019. With the recent reinstatement of the circuit’s MA track license the circuit is once again accredited to host motorcycle racing events, effective March 1, 2019.
2016 ASBK at Wanneroo – Image Trevor Hedge
After a two-year hiatus, MA has given the green light for motorcycle competition to take place at the Wanneroo circuit after several upgrades were undertaken to improve track safety, including the addition of a brand-new chicane to the layout and the installation of Airfence safety barriers at key points.
Kings of Wanneroo 2014 – Image Steve Thibou
MWA CEO Joe McCarthy
“This is great news for motorcyclists and motorcycle fans in Western Australia, who now have the opportunity to enjoy motorcycling at Barbagallo once again. We would like to thank all those who helped to facilitate motorcycling’s return to Barbagallo, including track operators the WA Sporting Car Club and MA. We would also like to acknowledge Minister for Sport and Recreation, The Hon. Mick Murray MLA and the Government of Western Australia for supporting our desire to bring motorcycling back to this fantastic facility.”
Troy Herfoss leads ASBK race one at Barbagallo Raceway, Wanneroo – Image by Keith Muir – 2016
WA Minister for Sport and Recreation Mick Murray
“I’d like to thank the WA Sporting Car Club, Motorcycling Australia and Motorcycling Western Australia for their hard work in getting this result for motorsports competitors, fans and others involved in the industry.”
Daniel Falzon, Cru Halliday, Troy Herfoss – Wanneroo Raceway, 2016 – Image Keith Muir
MA CEO Peter Doyle
“It has been a long process, but we are happy to see a positive result” he said. “There have been a number of improvements made to the circuit recently and it will great to see racing return to Barbagallo.”
Mike Jones, Wayne Maxwell – ASBK 2016 – Barbagallo Raceway – Image by Keith Muir
Riders who believe there is safety in numbers may be in for a shock when the whole group is pulled over by police and fined for speeding.
The issue was brought to our attention when three of a group of four Brisbane riders were recently pulled over and fined for speeding.
One of the riders decided to challenge the finebecause he believed he was not doing the same speed as the others.
His lawyer advised him “a group of motorcyclist travelling together can be reasonably considered as all travelling at the same speed, therefore the police only need to confirm one was speeding to be able to apply the same ticket to the rest of the group”.
The rider’s challenge was unsuccessful in Magistrates Court this week.
Queensland Police officer Senior Constable John Wilkins used an in-car radar to record the speed of three of the riders as they approached in the opposite direction to which he was travelling. He missed the fourth rider.
To back up his observations of each rider’s speed, he used a bodycam to record the vision of the riders and a partial view of their speed on the dashboard-mounted radar unit.
Proving the speeds of several riders in a group seems impossible, yet the Magistrate in this case accepted the police evidence.
The defendant, who has already spent $5500 on the matter, plans to take it further.
No safety in numbers
Many riders may have similar stories of numbers of riders copping the same speeding fine while others may have examples of only one rider being pulled out of a group for speeding.
Both scenarios seem unfair and unjust.
Except for fixed speed cameras, which can pick up individual number plates to issue fines, there does not appear to be any mobile equipment that can do the same.
In this case, the officer backs up his evidence with bodycam video.
We asked police in each state about their operations and policy.
Only Victoria, Queensland and South Australia replied, while the others refused to comment on operational procedures or “hypothetical situations”.
Victorian Police say that “under the right circumstances it is possible for police to intercept and issue speeding infringements to a large group of motorcyclists”.
However, they won’t say what those “right circumstances” are.
It seems police are simply willing to fine group riders and accept the chance that it may be challenged in court.
Police replies
Here are the replies from Queensland and SAPOL:
Queensland Police utilise multiple types of speed detection devices that are capable of accurately detecting motorists exceeding the speed limit. Police remind all road users to drive safely and not exceed the speed limit. A handheld laser speed detection device will enable accurate targeting of an individual vehicle travelling in a group of vehicles. A mobile radar will not allow the individual targeting of a vehicle travelling in a group of vehicles, however it does have a feature that will allow the device to display both the strongest signal returned and the fastest vehicle detected. With regards to both types of devices, it is incumbent upon the operator to make visual observations as part of a valid tracking history to confirm the speed detected is accurate. The observations of the officer are vital in supporting any prosecution.
SAPOL uses both hand-held laser and vehicle mounted radar devices to detect speeds, along with officers observations of vehicles. A laser devicecould be used to detect speed of a motor cycle rider in a group.The detection could be used to prove that other persons in the group were exceeding the speed limit, if they were observed by police as travelling parallel to each other.”
Former world champion releases nerves ahead of Argentina.
Image: Supplied.
A string of European pre-season events have loosened Romain Febvre ahead of this weekend’s MXGP World Championship opener at Nequen in Argentina.
The former world champion believes he rode tight in the Italian championship, however felt back to his usual self in last weekend’s Lacapelle Marival International Motocross in France after securing victory.
“My feeling with the bike and on the team is really good at the moment,” Febvre explained. “Also my physical condition is good. Right from the beginning of the pre-season races I have felt good although I was riding a little bit tight in Italy but it got better and last weekend it was much better.
“I felt in the race last weekend that I was back, that I could race with the same feeling I have practicing. We have been working hard on the bike, we have made some good progress and we are still moving in the right direction to improve even more.
“For the first round of MXGP in Argentina this weekend, it is nothing special- I don’t want to put any pressure on myself. I just want to ride relaxed and enjoy it as it is my favourite track on the calendar.”
Febvre’s 2018 season ended prematurely when he suffered a heavy fall at the MXGP of Turkey, resulting in a concussion and s broken rib.
KTM Australia has announced the pricing for all their 2019 adventure models, including the new 790 Adventure and Adventure R, arriving in June 2019.
The 790 models start at $21,195 ride away and an extra $1500 for the R model at $22,695.
That compares with the BMW F 850 GS which starts at $17,990 (plus on-road costs) and goes up to $22,305 for the Rallye X model.
The KTMs arrive several months before its major new mid-mid-sized competitor, the Yamaha Ténéré 700.
790 Adventure
The much anticipated 790 Adventure is powered by KTM’s new-generation LC8c 799cc in-line twin-engine with 70kW of power (95hp) and weighing in at only 189kg.
KTM claims 400km of range from the 20-litre tank. And it should all be smooth riding with two balancer shafts and long service intervals of 15,000km.
Suspension is, of course, WP, with 43mm forks, 200mm of travel, 233mm clearance and an 850mm seat height, compared with the Ténéré 700 at 880mm.
The engine sits in a CroMo steel frame with an open-lattice swingarm.
Finally, a manufacturer has provided an easy-to-adjust handlebar. It can be set in six different positions with a 30mm adjustment range making it comfortable no matter what size the rider and whether standing or sitting.
Instruments are in a 5-inch TFT display with a wide range of configurable information. The display varies according to light and the rev counter blinks to indicate when to shift.
Electronic rider aids include traction control, cornering ABS, and an off-road mode with a smooth throttle response.
Other tasty features are LED lighting, steering damper and hefty 320mm twin discs with four-piston radially mounted callipers.
Factory accessories include an up/down quickshifter, heated grips and cruise control, as well as the usual protection parts and luggage.
790 Adventure R
The R model adds longer-travel 240mm suspension, Karoo 3 dirt tyres, 48mm WP XPLOR forks, upgraded shock and different bodywork.
690 Enduro R
690 Enduro R
The 690 Enduro R which returns in 2019 with several updates will cost $17,595 ride away.
It was previously available at $14,695 plus on-road costs.
One of the best for long-range touring is the addition of two balancer shafts to smooth out the LC4 single.
It also now gets the super-duper fully-adjustable WP XPLOR suspension.
There are two changeable rider modes (off-road and street), cornering ABS and traction control.
Styling is now sharper and slimmer, with a redesigned seat.
KTM Australia has also confirmed ride-away pricing for the rest of their 2019 adventure range: 1090 Adventure R $24,295, 1290 Super Adventure Super Adventure S $28,395 and 1290 Super Adventure R $29,195.
Edge grip a key area to work on for factory Yamaha contender.
Image: Supplied.
Setting the fastest time on the final day of MotoGP World Championship testing in Qatar this week, Maverick Vinales believes there’s still room for improvement ahead of the 10 March opener at Losail International Circuit.
Expressing a positive feeling out on-track, the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP rider is adamant he’ll be adequately prepared for the race, however acknowledged a lack of grip on the edge of the tyres with his YZR-M1.
“Honestly, I have been riding really good on the track, I felt like I was going very fast with the amount of grip that the track provided today,” Vinales commented. “But we need to improve. I don’t have really good grip on the edge, so we need to keep working, especially in that area.
“On the acceleration side we improved quite a lot since Sepang, and at the moment I’m quite satisfied with what we have in the braking area. My race pace is not bad, I tried ten laps just to understand how the bike is doing, but it was very cold for the medium tyres.
“Anyway, I rode quite well, with quite a good rhythm. Maybe I could have pushed a little more. However, we still need to improve for the race. I think we are going to be ready. The race will be very important for us. Our bike has really positive points, but also a few negatives, so we now need to come to a conclusion and see where we can improve.”
The Yamaha squad has been highly-impressive throughout testing, posting improvements over last season, with multi-time world champion Valentino Rossi also winding up inside the top five at Qatar.
Popular Italian attempting to equal world championship record in 2019.
Image: Supplied.
Attempting to earn a record-equalling 10th MXGP World Championship in 2019, Antonio Cairoli has expressed that this weekend’s opening races at Nequen in Argentina isn’t key to the title hunt, however it is important to build a strong foundation.
Cairoli, who finished runner-up to Red Bull KTM Factory Racing teammate Jeffrey Herlings last year, dominated the pre-season events he contested, setting himself up positively for the grand prix season.
“I’ve never had great results in Argentina and I’m still searching for the win but it’s a really nice GP for me,” Cairoli explained. “The location is great, as is the track and the atmosphere made by the fans so I look forward to going there.
“Of course the season is really long and this is just the first race but we will all see ‘where we are’ and how things will run. The first races are not really the key to the whole championship – and I have seen this in my years in GPs – but it is important to build a good start and momentum from the beginning.”
Reigning champion Herlings will miss this weekend’s opener due to a foot injury, while his return to riding and racing is still to be determined.
Highly-anticipated Adventure models due for June 2019 arrival.
Image: Supplied.
KTM Australia has confirmed domestic pricing of the highly-anticipated 790 Adventure R and 790 Adventure models, along with the 2019 range of Adventure motorcycles.
Following the official unveil at Milan’s EICMA show last November, both bikes are scheduled to arrive in Australia during June 2019. The KTM 790 Adventure R represents exceptional value at $22,695 ride away, while the KTM 790 Adventure will retail at $21,195 ride away.
Developed using KTM’s illustrious racing DNA, the KTM 790 Adventure R has been designed for the hardcore adventurer, equipped to take-on extreme off-road terrain.
A tubular CroMo steel frame and lightweight steel trellis sub-frame are engineered handle harsh conditions, paired with high-performance WP suspension – a WP XPLOR 48mm fork and WP XPLOR shock – with 240mm of travel front and rear.
A steering damper aids stability, plus the heavy-duty spoked 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels with Metzeler Karoo 3 tyres are specifically developed for off-road performance. It boasts twin 320mm diameter brake discs with four-piston, radially-mounted calipers up front, as well as a 260mm diameter brake disc actuated by a double piston floating caliper in the rear.
A bold and aggressive KTM design has been developed in parallel with the Dakar Rally-dominating factory racing rally contender, weighing in at 189 kilograms dry.
Utilising the compact 799cc twin-cylinder, four-stroke LC8c engine specifically adapted to meet the needs of serious off-road adventure riding, it boasts 70 kW, a six-speed sequential gearbox and KTM’s ride-by-wire system that electronically translates throttle commands of the rider into optimum throttle valve positions.
A special effort was made to have the air-filter easily accessible for cleaning and servicing while on a ride, plus thanks to the KTM 790 Adventure R’s design and advanced cooling technology, riding for hours in hot conditions is possible.
Rider aids are there to assist you in variable situations, featuring KTM’s MTC (Motorcycle Traction Control), cornering ABS, off-road ABS (deactivating ABS at the rear while front wheel ABS intervention is reduced and data from the lean angle sensor is not considered), an off-road ride mode and the more advanced Rally mode which enable the rider to adapt the character of the bike more freely.
Optional add-ons include Quickshifter+ and Cruise Control, while smartphones can be connected via the KTM MY RIDE system for a variety of functional purposes. In addition, take full advantage of the 20-litre fuel tank as the main volume is placed as low as possible, improving handling via a low centre of gravity and also enhancing ergonomic comfort.
Riders will benefit from features such as ergonomic adjustability, a single-piece off-road style seat, all-terrain foot-pegs, a low-profile windshield specific to the R model that offers an unobstructed view directly in front of the bike, a customisable five-inch TFT display, as well as LED lights including the main headlight, taillight and indicators.
Alongside, if you’re seeking a high-performance motorcycle that’s lightweight and compact, specialising in adventure touring with the ability to explore further off-road when the tarmac ends, then look no further than the KTM 790 Adventure. Whether it’s in the desert, on remote mountain trails or a transcontinental crossing, no other twin-cylinder travel enduro bike can match it, also weighing 189 kilograms dry.
Including much of the technology that makes up the R model, the sporty 790 Adventure is differentiated by by its Avon Trailrider tyres, WP’s APEX 43mm open cartridge upside-down fork and WP APEX shock each with 200mm of travel, a height-adjustable two-part seat, high windshield for maximum wind protection on long rides, and in terms of electronics, the Rally mode becomes an additional optional pack.
KTM Australia can now also confirm ride away pricing that will make up the 2019 KTM Adventure Range: The all new MY19 690 Enduro R is $17,595 ride away, MY19 1090 Adventure R at $24,295 ride away, MY19 1290 Super Adventure Super Adventure S at $28,395 ride away, and the MY19 1290 Super Adventure R comes in at $29,195 ride away. For more information, visit www.ktm.com/au.
Pricing confirmed for 2019 Husqvarna FC 450 Rockstar Edition
Section: Competition
Limited edition premier class contender in dealerships this April.
Image: Supplied.
Husqvarna Motorcycles Australia has confirmed pricing of the 2019 Husqvarna FC 450 Rockstar Edition, which is based upon the title-winning factory race bike of Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s current AMA Supercross Champion Jason Anderson.
Due for delivery in Australia this April, the limited edition premier class contender will be priced at RRP $14,995 at Husqvarna dealers around the country.
The pioneering new Husqvarna FC 450 Rockstar Edition has been developed using experience and data gained through the iconic Swedish brand’s factory racing program, this 2019 model forming the basis of what Anderson and teammate Zach Osborne are competing aboard this season.
Development carried out by Husqvarna Motorcycles engineers has resulted in the sharpest FC 450 yet, bolstered by technological advancements and class-leading components that add to the up-spec platform which pays tribute to the manufacturer’s international partnership with Rockstar Energy Drink.
Featuring distinctive bodywork and graphics to provide an elusive factory appearance, the 2019 Husqvarna FC 450 Rockstar Edition SOHC engine package is enhanced by a new CP forged box-in-box piston and Pankl con-rod. Collectively resulting in reduced friction, these provide maximum performance and reliability.
An FMF Racing Factory 4.1 RCT silencer has been fitted, including a blue anodised titanium body and carbon end-cap. It’s shorter than the base production model’s exhaust, aiding to mass centralisation and reducing chances of damage.
CNC-machined triple clamps are made from high-grade aluminium, featuring optimally-tuned steering stem stiffness and perfected fork tube alignment to increase responsiveness. The off-set can been easily adjusted between 20mm or 22mm.
In addition, the hydro-formed frame has premium black powder-coating, as well as anodised D.I.D DirtStar rims and machined hubs that offer maximum weight savings and strength. The 2019 Husqvarna FC 450 Rockstar Edition also has a carbon-fibre reinforced engine protector, mechanical hole-shot device and a front brake disc protector fitted as standard.
These features come on top of the usual Husqvarna FC 450 features, which include a composite two-piece sub-frame design, fully-adjustable 48mm WP split air fork, WP rear shock absorber, ProTaper handlebars, precise Magura hydraulic clutch system, selectable map switch that activates launch and traction control, electric starter powered by a lightweight Li-Ion 2.0 Ah battery and the potent Brembo braking package.
