At a glance, the Scrambler XE looks like a classic Triumph. Tidy proportions, a shapely fuel tank. It’s a recipe that’s worked for generations. But see the thing in the flesh and you’ll quickly realize Triumph’s iconic styling hides an entirely new and entirely more capable machine.
It’s bigger, for a start, and in every way. Suspension travel rings in at a startling 9.8 inches, and Triumph tells us this iteration of its eight-valve 1,200cc engine is good for 89 hp and 81 pound-feet of torque. And there’s technology too. The Scrambler XE is equipped with traction control and an inertial measurement unit, which facilitates cornering ABS. The machine has rider-selectable throttle maps. There’s even optional built-in Bluetooth GoPro control functionality for capturing your riding exploits.
Taken together, the $15,400 Scrambler XE bundles some of today’s best adventure-riding tech into a package with Triumph’s classic visual appeal. But how does it hold up to the MC Commute? Ride along with us, and find out.
First launched in 2004, the Rocket III forged its own niche in the power cruiser segment and earned itself a loyal band of followers. 15 years later, Triumph are upping the ante with a new high-performance and somewhat bespoke Rocket TFC, and only 750 of them will be made.
2019 Triumph Rocket 3 TFC
25 of the exclusive 2019 Rocket 3 TFC models will be making their way to Australian shores with incredible anticipation from potential customers. Projected delivery of these bikes into Australia is scheduled for November 2019. I think they will likely sell out this week, six months before they arrive. The price? Nothing concrete as yet but based on the UK indicative pricing, I think you can expect to pay under $50,000 here in Australia.
2019 Triumph Rocket 3 TFC
The headline act of the Rocket III since inception was that 2294cc but the new limited-edition run of Rocket 3 TFC boasts a massive 2458cc donk. That is a whopping 150 cubic inches for those of you that talk the language of the American cruisers.
2019 Triumph Rocket 3 TFC
The Rocket 3 TFC has the biggest production motorcycle engine in the world.
2019 Triumph Rocket 3 TFC
Quoted power is over 170 horsepower (13 per cent more than predecessor), while peak torque registers at 221 Nm. A number that Triumph also quotes as the hightest torque figure of any motorcycle.
2019 Triumph Rocket 3 TFC
Weight? Triumph are yet to quote an exact figure, despite giving us all the other specifications which we show you at the bottom of the page, they have just told us that the Rocket III TFC is 40kg lighter than the previous generation machine, that would put the TFC at around 320kg ready to roll. By cruiser standards that is not bad at all, especially when you have 170 ponies and 221 Nm of twist to motivate that mass!
2019 Triumph Rocket 3 TFC
With only 750 ever being sold worldwide, the Rocket TFC is set to be Triumph’s most exclusive and desirable motorcycle. Featuring premium TFC badging with gold detailing and a beautiful individually-numbered plaque on the instrument mount, each one will be completely unique and never to be repeated.
2019 Triumph Rocket 3 TFC
Every Rocket TFC owner will also receive a special tailor-made TFC handover pack dedicated to their bike, featuring a numbered letter signed by Triumph’s CEO Nick Bloor, a personalised custom build book, leather TFC branded rucksack and a beautiful Rocket 3 TFC indoor bike cover.
2019 Triumph Rocket 3 TFC
The Rocket 3 TFC engine features lightweight titanium inlet valves which allow for higher rpm than the previous Rocket and tailor made features such as the unique Arrow silencers with carbon fibre end-caps.
2019 Triumph Rocket 3 TFC
With stark signature twin LED headlights, the new Rocket 3 TFC features unique lightweight carbon fibre bodywork, including front mud-guard, silencer end caps and exhaust heat shields, fly screen, drive shaft cover, heel guards and tank strap.
2019 Triumph Rocket 3 TFC
The Rocket 3 TFC’s clean uncluttered style and muscular feel is further enhanced by new intricate twenty spoke cast aluminium wheels with imposing 240mm rear tyre width and commanding internally wired flat handlebars.
2019 Triumph Rocket 3 TFC
Additional exquisite finish and detailing includes the one-of-a-kind premium twin ‘carbon black and matt carbon black’ paint scheme with brushed foil decals, gold accents and electroformed 3D Triumph badge, and elegantly hidden pillion footrests contributing to clean minimal rear end.
2019 Triumph Rocket 3 TFC
The latest generation full-colour 2nd generation TFT instruments add even more sophistication and a major step up in functionality over the previous Rocket. The minimal stylish design of the TFT system offers two information layout themes and a feature that allows the rider to personalise their start-up screen.
2019 Triumph Rocket 3 TFC
Increasing the level of rider-focused technology even further, the optimised Cornering ABS and Traction Control set-up maintains the optimum braking performance and level of traction, whatever the lean angle. Additionally, four riding modes (Road, Rain, Sport and Rider-configurable) adjust the throttle map and traction control settings to suit the riding conditions or rider preference.
2019 Triumph Rocket 3 TFC
Taking the riding experience to a new level, the Rocket 3 TFC comes with Triumph Shift Assist and Hill Hold Control as standard. The Triumph Shift Assist allows for clutch-less up and down quick shifts improving the shifting times compared to manual gear changes, whilst the Hill Hold feature enables maximum rider control, preventing the bike rolling backwards.
2019 Triumph Rocket 3 TFC
For enhanced visibility, low energy consumption and great durability, the Rocket TFC features all-LED lighting, including all new full-LED twin headlight with signature shaped Daytime-Running-Light (DRL, market-specific availability), compact LED indicators, tail light and number plate light.
2019 Triumph Rocket 3 TFC
Electronic cruise control is also fitted as standard, reducing the rider’s fatigue on long journeys. And for additional convenience and security, the Rocket 3 TFC features keyless ignition, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and a USB charging socket.
2019 Triumph Rocket 3 TFC
In addition to its standard specification, the all new Rocket 3 Triumph Factory Custom’s advanced TFT instruments have been designed to deliver even more capability when enabled by an accessory Bluetooth connectivity module. When fitted, the full TFT connectivity system delivers the world’s first motorcycle integrated ‘GoPro’ control system, Triumph’s ‘turn-by-turn’ navigation system powered by Google as well as music and phone operation.
2019 Triumph Rocket 3 TFC
Significant weight savings across the entire motorcycle make the 2019 Rocket 3 TFC over 15% lighter than its predecessor with over 40kg saving, for a better handling and riding experience. This saving is delivered by an all-new unique aluminium frame which uses the engine as a stressed member for mass optimisation, all new aluminium single sided swinging arm, engine component refinements, carbon fibre bodywork and lightweight braking components.
2019 Triumph Rocket 3 TFC
In addition to the weight saving, the Rocket 3 TFC also has a category leading level of equipment, with top specification Brembo Stylema calipers, high specification adjustable 47mm upside down Showa cartridge forks and fully adjustable Showa monoshock with piggy back reservoir.
2019 Triumph Rocket 3 TFC
The premium specification continues with a Brembo radial master cylinder and MCS span and ratio adjustable brake lever plus matching clutch lever.
2019 Triumph Rocket 3 TFC
The new 2019 Rocket 3 TFC is equipped with an incredible array of custom designed details including real leather interchangeable ‘twin or single’ seat set-up as standard, plus an infill pad supplied to work with the single seat set-up. Adding to this come a distinctive single sided swingarm and innovative sculpted 3-header exhaust run.
2019 Triumph Rocket 3 TFC
Triumph Rocket 3 TFC Specifcations
NEW ROCKET 3 TFC
Engine Type
Inline 3-cylinder, water-cooled, DOHC
Capacity
2458cc
Bore/Stroke
110.2 mm x 85.9 mm
Power
Over 170 PS
Torque
Over 221Nm
Fuel system
Ride-by-Wire, fuel injected
Exhaust
Stainless 3 into 1 headers with 3 exit Arrow branded silencer / CAT box
Final drive
Shaft, bevel box
Clutch
Hydraulic, slip-assist
Gearbox
6 speed
Frame
Full aluminium frame
Instruments
TFT multi-functional instrument pack with digital speedometer, trip computer, digital tachometer, gear position indicator, fuel gauge, service indicator, ambient temperature, clock and rider modes (Rain/Road/Sport/Rider-configurable) – Triumph TFT Connectivity System can be added with accessory fitted Bluetooth module
Swingarm
Single-sided, cast aluminium
Front Wheel
17 x 3.6in cast aluminium
Rear Wheel
16 x 7.5in cast aluminium
Front Tyre
150/80 R17 V
Rear Tyre
240/50 R16 V
F Suspension
Showa ø47mm upside-down 1+1 cartridge front forks, compression and rebound adj., 120 mm travel
R Suspension
Fully adjustable Showa piggyback reservoir RSU with remote hydraulic preload adjuster, 107 mm travel
His maiden Ducati podium came at Jerez in 2017 and if it wasn’t for a huge crash involving himself, then teammate Andrea Dovizioso and Dani Pedrosa, another one could have been forthcoming in 2018. Before last season’s Spanish GP mishap, Lorenzo had claimed a top three in Jerez in seven of the last eight seasons, missing out with a fourth place in 2014, with his last non-score in southern Spain coming in 2009.
Sharply designed road bike helmet boasts exceptional features.
Cassons, the Australian distributor of Bell helmets, has freshened up its RS-2 range with the Crave matte/gloss colourway, which is now available across the country.
The legacy of the popular RS-1 is enhanced and strengthened with the new RS-2. A lightweight, fibreglass shell provides protection, while a comfortable, washable, anti-microbial X-Static XT2 Silver liner ensures cooler heads will prevail.
Image: Supplied.
Whether searching for grip at full lean or chewing up highway kilometres by the hundreds, the RS-2 is ready for whatever the road has in store. They’ve even included an integrated flip-down sun shield for versatile on-the-fly adaptability to changing light conditions.
Bell RS-2 helmet key features: – Lightweight fibreglass shell construction available in three sizes. – Drop-down sunshield offers on the fly protection from the sun (eyewear compatible). – DOT/ECE 22.05 certification. – X-Static XT2 Silver liner.
Priced from RRP $399.95, the Bell RS-2 helmet us available in a variety of colours and designs, including the featured Crave option. To locate your nearest stockist, visit www.cassons.com.au.
BMW has added a the C 400 scooter range to its line-up, but has yet to add its electric scooter which was launched six years ago.
In 2013 the BMW C 600 Sport and C 600 GT scooters started at $13,990 and $15,990 plus on-road costs. Now they are $14,150 for the Sport and $14,490 for the GT.
BMW has now added a range of 350cc scooters priced from $8990 for the C 400 X to $11,890 for the C 400 GT which adds a rider backrest, passenger footboards and a higher windshield.
2019 BMW C 400 GT is fitted with a separate rider backrest and passenger footboards and a higher windshield.
That’s a lot to pay for a 350cc single-cylinder scooter, especially when BMW’s single-cylinder G 310 R and GS cost only $5790.
Maybe it’s because the latter is made in India, rather than Berlin like these scooters.
There is still no word on their electric scooter being introduced to Australia.
The BMW C 400 X and GT also come in “ion” models featuring a 6.5-inch full colour TFT screen with handlebar-mounted Multi-Controller that allows riders to make phone calls and listen to music vi Bluetooth.
2019 BMW C 400 GT is fitted with a separate rider backrest and passenger footboards and a higher windshield.
The C 400 X ion is priced from $11,290 and includes a daytime running light while the C 400 GT ion starts at $11,890.
All C 400 scooters all powered by a single-cylinder with 25kW of power at 7500rpm and 35Nm of torque at 6000rpm, married to a Continuously Variable Transmission.
Features include LED lighting dual 265mm front discs, keyless ignition, traction control and a Flexcase storage system.
This patented under-seat storage space can be extended downward via a flap in the rear base.
It is waterproof and can fit a full-face and jet helmet.
There are two extra storage compartments in the front cowl operated via a button. The right-hand storage compartment includes a 12-volt power socket. A USB adapter is an optional accessory.
2019 BMW C 400 X comes with a newly developed single-cylinder 350 cc engine that is tuned for maximum efficiency.
The mid-sized scooter comes with a side stand and a “kinematic” centre stand that is easy to deploy.
The BMW C 400 models can also be fitted with a luggage rack for a topcase.
Strategy rewarded for privateer Scott at The Bend ASBK
Season-best sixth for Kawasaki-mounted contender at The Bend.
Image: Russell Colvin.
A gamble on tyre strategy has ultimately paid off for Kawasaki-mounted privateer Glenn Scott at The Bend’s third round of the 2019 Motul Pirelli Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK) as he charged to a season-best result of sixth overall.
Despite starting from P15 on the grid, Scott took advantage of three stellar starts to lodge a 7-9-8 scorecard, with his tyre strategy coming into play during the final stages of each outing as majority of riders faced challenges in managing degradation.
“I knew we were going to have to work hard all weekend to find the right setting to help increase tyre life,” Scott explained. “The Bend is an amazing layout which I thoroughly enjoy, however, it is quite challenging for tyres as the surface offers an unbelievable amount of grip, which considerably decreases tyre life, so we had to find a setting for longevity and consistency to last the race.
“A strategy that the team and I took was a gamble, as the factory boys had outright fast lap-times, something we couldn’t match, however our aim was to be strong at the end of the race, which paid off, resulting in our best finish yet.
“I’m ecstatic with my weekend, my confidence and consistency is building nicely. The Bend is a unique circuit which challenges both rider and machine. A real solid strategy was needed for the three 10 lap races.”
Scott was the highest ranked privateer in South Australia, joined in the top 10 by fellow Kawasaki-mounted rider Matt Walters (Kawasaki Connection) in ninth and Arthur Sissis (Suzuki) in 10th.
Electric motorcycles may be just around the corner, but we can’t see too many people paying $US32,750 (about $A46,500) for the Essence e-raw 04 Signature that looks this uncomfortable.
When the French Essence e-raw was launched in 2015 with a wooden seat we thought it was ridiculous and our backsides ached just looking at it.
Essence e-raw 01 with wooden seat
Now they have released the Essence e-raw 04 Signature with a brushed aluminium seat.
It looks springy, but no more comfortable than the first model.
Essence of performance
Essence e-raw 04 Signature
We wonder how many they’ve sold. Must be a few if they are releasing this high-performance Signature model.
Few riders of the Signature model may have time to think about backside comfort since it rockets to 100km/h in just 2.8 seconds and has a top speed of 200km/h.
That is thanks to an electric motor that makes 152kW of power a whopping 400Nm of torque.
It’s still not the fastest electric motorcycle in the world. That honour goes to the $US38,888 Lightning LS-218 which tops 350km/h (218mph).
Lightning record-holding electric race bike
There are few other technical details available about the e-raw 04 Signature such as battery output, charging times or range.
But we suspect that if it makes that much power and your are abrupt on the throttle it will drain very quickly.
The design doesn’t seem to show a lot of room for a big battery, either.
Essence motorcycles started with a prototype built by founder Martin Hulin that “went viral”.
So they developed the e-raw 01, followed by the 02, 03 and now the 04 Signature.
It features a trellis frame, belt drive, Ohlins forks and rear monoshock and a CNC-milled aluminium swingarm.
In fact, batteries can be made into almost any shape and electric motors are much smaller than an internal combustion engine, allowing designers much more flexibility with their creations.
Consequently, we’ve seen some crazy designs such as the Essence models, plus the bug-like Johammer, the Saietta that resembles a bull and the just-wild Zec00.
Some might think this is a great idea as it lifts these important lights higher where drivers are more likely to see them.
It could also be a good safety feature with its brake light that illuminates when the rider slows down on the throttle, rather than the brakes.
How inVIEW works
The inVIEW unit has bright LEDs and is powered by two AAA batteries that they claim will last for months.
Riders get a warning when batteries are low or if there is a problem with the system.
inVIEW comes in red or clear lens
It snaps on via a 3M hook and loop mounting system that Third Eye Design claim is unobtrusive when the unit is not attached and snaps off in the event of a crash.
There is also a small transmitter that can be located close to the rear brake light and indicators.
They say it draws “almost no power and works on all motorcycles, including those with CANBus electrical systems”.
Motocross range boasts updates and enhancements for year model 2020.
Image: Supplied.
Husqvarna Motorcycles has uncovered its 2020 FC and TC range of motocross bikes, confirming a selection of enhancements for the new year models.
Following on from the introduction of the revolutionary MY19 motocross models, Husqvarna Motorcycles engineers have continued to refine the handling, aesthetics and overall performance of the FC and TC models. Delivering functional improvements, the entire motocross range yet again offers state-of-the-art technologies with premium, high-end componentry.
Continuing to develop motorcycles that are more agile, more powerful and more ergonomically advanced, the MY20 range sees upgrades to the FC 250, FC 350, FC 450 four-strokes and TC 125 and TC 250 two-stroke machines, as well as to the TC 50. Notably, the entire motocross range features striking new graphics that offer a modern-day salute to the brand’s rich racing history.
The list of MY20 technical highlights includes a new additional interchangeable airbox cover for optimised airflow on all FC models.
Image: Supplied.
Focused on delivering optimum efficiency, all models enjoy progressive bodywork for optimised ergonomics together with chromoly steel frames that ensure precisely engineered flex characteristics and Husqvarna Motorcycles’ innovative two-piece composite subframe.
WP XACT suspension ensures accurate and responsive handling in all conditions thanks to progressive settings and the AER front fork technology.
High-end components guarantee all models deliver class leading performance with CNC machined triple clamps on all full-size models, Magura hydraulic clutch system, ProTaper handlebars, Brembo brake callipers and high-performance discs as standard. All four-stroke models are equipped with electric start as well as traction and launch control.
Image: Supplied.
Featuring the same level of quality and much of the same technology found in the successful full-size motocross models, Husqvarna Motorcycles’ minicycle range continues to offer up-and-coming youngsters of all skill levels a comprehensive line-up of premium quality bikes.
Giving all new minicycles striking new graphics, for MY20 Husqvarna Motorcycles engineers also focused their attention on the TC 50, fitting it with a new lightweight, cast aluminium swingarm.
