Johan Stigefelt, Team Director: “I’m really pleased that we have signed Darryn for next year. We have seen that he is an aggressive, talented and good rider, especially on the race day. This is the kind of guy that you want to work with, who wants to take the next step in his career, and the type of rider who you want in your team who can challenge for the front. This will definitely be the target with him. First he will need to adapt to the Honda and we want him to feel comfortable in the team, as we’ve done with other riders in the past. He’ll have a strong crew around him and I’m confident that we will be able to do something very good together.”
The likes of Xavi Vierge (Petronas Sprinta Racing), Augusto Fernandez (EG 0,0 Marc VDS), Tom Lüthi (Liqui Moly Intact GP), teammate Marcel Schrötter and Fabio Di Giannantonio (Beta Tools Speed Up) will be hoping to make a step forward and get in the mix though… can they move forward second time round?
Sam Lowes vs Italy may well be the story we expect in the Gran Premio TISSOT dell’Emilia Romagna e della Riviera di Rimini, but plenty can always happen in Moto2™. Tune in for another stunner on Sunday the 20th of September at 12:30 (GMT +2).
Ogura, on the other hand, is a different kettle of fish. The Japanese rider is simply going racing, getting on the podium, and then doing it again. His only 0 of the year wasn’t his fault, and he’s not particularly focused on the crown, it would seem – despite having been a favourite for some time. One thing Ogura is focused on is a maiden win, however, with that the last box to tick after getting his first pole position in the San Marino GP. Is now the time?
The closest veteran in the San Marino GP was Xavier Simeon (LCR E-Team), as he got within two tenths of Ferrari by the flag. Next up were Aegerter and Torres, but Mattia Casadei (Ongetta SIC58 Squadra Corse) lost out late and was the early leader, so he can’t be counted out. And what about Eric Granado (Avintia Esponsorama Racing)? Out of track limits on his E-Pole lap, the Brazilian had to start at the back and made it to a respectable P10 before running out of laps. With a better qualifying, can he hit back? The Jerez winner is still only 23 points off the top…
Indian Motorcycle has today announced its 2021 model-year line-up, which includes new model iterations and a step up in technology following the brand’s strongest sales quarter ever.
2021 Indian Challenger Limited
The current global pandemic is causing some supply chain issues for all industries but Indian Motorcycles Australia are confident that the 2021 models will start to arrive from late October.
New Vintage Dark Horse kicks off the range at $33,495
Joining the Indian Motorcycle cruiser lineup is the new Indian Vintage Dark Horse with soft black leather bags and fully blacked-out styling.
2021 Indian Roadmaster Limited
Featuring significant upgrades in 2021, the Roadmaster lineup is better than ever. Apple CarPlay is now standard across the lineup, while Roadmaster Limited and Roadmaster Dark Horse models feature Indian Motorcycle’s all-new ClimaCommand Rogue heated and cooled seat with Ride Command integration.
2021 Indian Roadmaster Limited
Joining the Roadmaster lineup is the Roadmaster Limited, which features gloss paint, chrome finishes, a modern fairing design, open front fender and slammed saddlebags.
2021 Indian Roadmaster Limited
Meanwhile, the restyled Roadmaster Dark Horse includes fully blacked-out finishes for mean and modern attitude.
2021 Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse
Each model is powered by Indian Motorcycle’s powerful, air-cooled Thunderstroke 116 with premium features, including Metzeler Cruisetec tyres, lower fairings with adjustable airflow vents, heated grips and a push-button adjustable windshield.
2021 Indian Vintage
Standard amenities across the entire Roadmaster lineup include remote-locking saddlebags and trunk with over 140 litres of combined storage, adjustable passenger floorboards, ABS, cruise control, keyless ignition, tyre pressure monitoring and full LED lighting.
2021 Indian Challenger Dark Horse
The power buttons on the Chieftain, Roadmaster, Indian Springfield, and Indian Challenger models have been relocated to the switch cube on the handlebars to accommodate a new 12-volt charge port on the dash. The charge port conveniently provides riders with an opportunity to plug in and connect to a wider range of electronics.
2021 Indian Springfield Dark HorseNew Vintage Dark Horse kicks off the range at $33,495
2021 Indian big-bore model line-up
Indian Vintage Dark Horse: Starting at $33,495, available in Thunder Black Smoke.
Indian Vintage: Starting at $33,995, available in Crimson Metallic, and Deepwater Metallic over Dirt Track Tan
Indian Springfield Dark Horse: Starting at $35,495 available in Thunder Black Smoke, Sagebrush Smoke, and White Smoke.
Indian Springfield Limited: Starting at $35,995 available in Thunder Black / Dirt Track Tan and Maroon Metallic / Crimson Metallic.
Chieftain Dark Horse: Starting at $38,495, available in Thunder Black Smoke, Ruby Smoke, and Titanium Smoke.
Chieftain Limited: Starting at $38,995, available in Thunder Black Pearl, and Radar Blue.
Indian Challenger Dark Horse: Starting at $39,495, available in Thunder Black Smoke, White Smoke, and Bronze Smoke.
Indian Challenger Limited: Starting at $39,995, available in Thunder Black Pearl, Ruby Metallic, and Deepwater Metallic.
Roadmaster: Starting at $42,995, available in Thunder Black Pearl, Maroon Metallic over Crimson Metallic, and Alumina Jade over Thunder Black.
Roadmaster Dark Horse: Starting at $41,495, available in Thunder Black Smoke, White Smoke, and Bronze Smoke.
Roadmaster Limited: Starting at $41,995, available in Crimson Metallic and Thunder Black Azure Crystal.
New Vintage Dark Horse kicks off the range at $33,495
ClimaCommand Heated & Cooled Seat
In addition to being standard equipment on the Roadmaster Limited and Roadmaster Dark Horse, Indian Motorcycle’s new ClimaCommand heated and cooled seat is also available as an upgrade across all Thunderstroke models. New for 2021, the ClimaCommand seat is available in two style variations, Classic and Rogue, which has more modern, streamlined style.
2021 Indian Roadmaster Limited
Additionally, the 2021 ClimaCommand seat now allows riders to adjust heating and cooling directly through the Ride Command infotainment system on select 2020 and 2021 models, offering riders a new, and easy way to manage comfort while on the road. With a low, medium, or high setting, the thermoelectric technology is used to independently cool or heat the rider and passenger seat, while a flexible graphene material allows the heating or cooling to disperse through the entire surface area of the seat.
The non-perforated seat is 100% water resistant and highly durable. The ClimaCommand seat is available as an added accessory for all 2014 through 2021 Thunderstroke models, though 2020 and 2021 Chieftain and Roadmaster riders can integrate the seat within the bike’s Ride Command system.
Apple CarPlay
Standard on all 2021 Roadmaster, Chieftain, and Indian Challenger models equipped with Ride Command with navigation. Apple CarPlay delivers an easier, more customised level of control for music, navigation preferences, and mobile device information.
2021 Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse
Pathfinder Adaptive LED Headlight & Pathfinder S LED Driving Lights
Available as an accessory upgrade, Indian Motorcycle introduces the all-new Pathfinder Adaptive LED Headlight for most 2015-2021 Thunderstroke models, and Pathfinder S LED Driving lights for most Chieftain, Roadmaster, and Indian Challenger models. The all-new Pathfinder Adaptive LED Headlight senses the bike’s lean angle and activates individual LED projector beams to provide unprecedented visibility.
2021 Indian Challenger Dark Horse
With 15 individual beams, and featuring technology that monitors the bike’s lean angle in real-time, the Adaptive Headlight delivers unmatched illumination of the road ahead. In addition, the Pathfinder S LED Driving Lights can be added to complement the Pathfinder Adaptive LED Headlight. With the same superior LED illumination as the Pathfinder Adaptive LED Headlight, riders will benefit with even more nighttime visibility.
2021 Indian Challenger Dark Horse
PowerBand Audio
New for 2021, riders can now upgrade the Indian Challenger’s audio experience with PowerBand Audio Quick Release Trunk Amplified Speaker Kit. When paired with PowerBand Audio Plus, this system delivers exceptional sound and clarity from high-output fairing and saddlebag speakers that are 50% louder than the Indian Challenger’s stock audio system.
2021 Indian Roadmaster Limited
Touring & Comfort Accessories
In 2021, Indian Challenger riders can pack for the long haul and enjoy new touring amenities. The Indian Challenger quick release trunk adds of 64 liters of additional storage. Similar to the Indian Roadmaster trunk, the Indian Challenger trunk is lockable via key fob and can fit two full- face helmets. When paired with the Slim Trunk Passenger Backrest Pad, passengers have up to 5 centimeters of additional room for comfort.
For both Indian Challenger and Thunderstroke models, a new low-profile quick release padded sissy bar with low-profile passenger pad, is available to those who want added passenger comfort without sacrificing the bike’s low-profile and sleek styling.
Additionally, Indian Challenger and Thunderstroke riders can add even more wind protection with taller accessory windshield options and added comfort with an extended reach seat, infinite highway pegs and a pinnacle heel shifter. For those riding two-up, a quick release passenger sissy bar, passenger backrest pad, and passenger floorboards add passenger comfort.
2021 Indian Challenger Limited2021 Indian Challenger Limited
For Thunderstroke models, Indian Motorcycle offers a full package of comfort and passenger accommodations, including extended reach seat, mid-rise and 16-inch ape hanger handlebars, rider and passenger back rests, color matching Quick Release Trunk, passenger arm rests and more. Indian Challenger riders can upgrade with mid-rise handlebars, a tinted curved windshield, and front highway bars.
Performance Upgrades
Indian Motorcycle’s lineup of Thunderstroke performance accessories significantly modify the overall look, sound, and performance of each engine. The stage 1 slip-on exhaust, available in black or chrome, improves sound for both the Thunderstroke 111 and Thunderstroke 116. Indian Motorcycle’s stage 1 oval slip-on muffler kit and stage 1 performance air intake together increase horsepower by 4% with the Thunderstroke 111 and 8% with the Thunderstroke 116.
By adding the stage 2 performance cams, riders will gain 13% more horsepower when compared to a stock Thunderstroke 111.
The Thunderstroke 116 stage 2 performance kit, which includes cams, higher flowing fuel injectors and throttle body, produce a 17% horsepower boost when paired with both Stage 1 accessories.
Riders can also upgrade any Indian Motorcycle model packing the Thunderstroke 111 with its Thunderstroke 116 stage 3 big bore kit, which produces 20% more horsepower when compared to a stock Thunderstroke 111.
For Indian Challenger riders, the stage 1 slip-on muffler and PowerPlus stage 1 air intake improves sound and style.
Indian Vintage Dark HorseIndian Vintage Dark HorseIndian Vintage Dark Horse2021 Indian Vintage2021 Indian Vintage2021 Indian Roadmaster Limited2021 Indian Roadmaster Limited2021 Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse2021 Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse2021 Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse2021 Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse2021 Indian Springfield Dark Horse2021 Indian Springfield Dark Horse2021 Indian Challenger Dark Horse2021 Indian Challenger Dark Horse2021 Indian Challenger Dark Horse2021 Indian Chieftain Dark Horse2021 Indian Chieftain Dark Horse2021 Indian Chieftain Dark Horse2021 Indian Chieftain Limited2021 Indian Chieftain Limited2021 Indian Chieftain Limited2021 Indian Chieftain Limited2021 Indian Challenger Limited2021 Indian Challenger Limited2021 Indian Challenger Limited2021 Indian Roadmaster2021 Indian Roadmaster2021 Indian Roadmaster2021 Indian Springfield2021 Indian Springfield2021 Indian Springfield2021 Indian Springfield2021 Indian Roadmaster
This year’s 2021 Scout line-up receives a refresh with new paint colors with Stealth Gray on the Scout Bobber Twenty and Maroon Metallic Smoke on the Scout Bobber.
2021 Indian Scout – Maroon Metallic over Crimson Metallic
Indian first introduced the modern Scout in 2015 and thus 2021 will be the model’s seventh year in production.
Scout Bobber
2021 Indian Scout Models
Scout: Starting at $20,995, available in Thunder Black Smoke, Deepwater Metallic, White Smoke, and Maroon Metallic over Crimson Metallic.
Scout Bobber: Starting at $19,995, available in Thunder Black, Thunder Black Smoke, White Smoke, Alumina Jade Smoke, and Maroon Metallic Smoke.
Scout Bobber Twenty: Starting at $21,495, available in Thunder Black, Thunder Black Smoke, Stealth Gray, and Sagebrush Smoke.
Digital tachometer, odometer, trip meter, engine temp, low fuel lamp
Dry Weight
242 kg
Kerb Weight
251 kg
Seat Height
649 mm
Wheelbase
1576 mm
Rake / Trail
29.0° / 4.7 in (120 mm)
Fuel Capacity
12.5 Litres
Service Intervals
8000 kilometres
Warranty
Two-years, unlimited kilometres
Available
Approx Oct/Nov 2020
Price
From $19,995
Scout Accessories
All-new Scout touring parts, riders can turn their city cruiser into a capable long-haul touring machine. A Scout Bobber low or mid wind deflector protects riders from the elements, while heated grips for all 2017-2021 Scout models keep your hands warm in cold weather conditions.
Indian Scout Accessories
In addition, a new fairing bag and semi-rigid saddlebags add stylish storage options. Finally, a color-matched quick release fairing with a two-inch windshield is available for all Scout models in new 2021 colorways.
Indian Scout Accessories
Indian Motorcycle’s Scout performance upgrades can seriously change the overall attitude of any Scout. Exhaust and muffler options change the aesthetic, while increasing horsepower by over 10% when paired with the performance air intake. Options include the stage 1 2-in-1 full exhaust system and the stage 1 shorty slip-on muffler kit – both available in chrome and matte black.
For MY21, both the RM-Z250 and RM-Z450 feature WiFi tuning capability via the Suzuki MX-Tuner 2.0.
Standard with every new MY21 RM-Z purchased, the plug and play tuner allows customers to alter the engine mapping via the intuitive smartphone WiGET app, available on iOS and Android devices.
The WiGET app comes with several pre-installed factory-developed maps for easy tuning for different riding styles and track conditions.
In just a few minutes the power delivery can be altered for softer delivery settings for hard packed surfaces or dial-in maximum power for deep, loamy conditions and amazing drive out of the corners.
For the more experienced tuner, the possibilities are practically endless with the ability to create fully customised maps with specific settings for 36 points of ignition timing and 36 points of fuel injection delivery.
2021 Suzuki RM-Z250
Suzuki MX Tuner 2.0 Key Features
Four pre-programmed performance maps are available including Aggressive, Smooth, Richer, and Leaner for different riding conditions.
Build custom fuel or ignition maps easily on the app by adjusting individual cells or the entire grid. Approve the map and it immediately uploads to the coupler currently plugged into the RM-Z.
Easily upload pre-programmed or custom performance maps into different Suzuki couplers (supplied with RM-Zs) for quick mapping changes at the track.
Keeping maintenance records is a breeze. Select the service tab to see the hour meter reading, or add a maintenance log to record when a particular component has been serviced, such as completing an oil change.
Use the monitor section of the app to view the RM-Z engine functions in real time including RPM, throttle and gear position, which tuning coupler is installed, system voltage and more.
Riders can share their best performance settings with fellow RM-Z riders directly through the MX-Tuner 2.0 app.
2021 Suzuki RM-Z450
Suzuki RM-Zs also feature Suzuki’s Holeshot Assist Control (S-HAC) provides riders a choice of three settings which can be quickly selected via a handlebar-mounted switch. The “A” mode is programmed for hard surfaces, such as a concrete starting pad, clay or hard-packed dirt where controlling wheelspin is crucial to good starts. The “B” mode is for normal dirt conditions. Riders can also select the “Off” setting to retain standard ignition timing.
Power output is controlled via Suzuki’s sophisticated Traction Management system which works seamlessly with the rider to get the power to the ground. To maximise traction for conditions, the engine control module (ECM) automatically adjusts ignition timing and fuel injection based on throttle position, engine speed and gear position.
Suzuki RM-Zs are famous for their class-leading cornering and turning performance. The latest generation aluminium chassis design, combined with premium coil-spring front forks ensures this legacy continues, giving riders sharper handling, better feel and more control than ever before.
2021 Suzuki RM-Z250
The MY21 RM-Z range also boasts a new graphics design, black anodized Dirtstar rims, powerful 270 mm wave front rotors and Renthal aluminium Fatbar handlebars as standard equipment.
The MY21 Suzuki RM-Z range will be available from Australian dealerships in December, for a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $10,790 ride away for the RM-Z250 and $11,690 ride away for the RM-Z450.
Maverick Viñales (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) topped the Tuesday test at Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, putting in a 1:31.532 to end the day two and a half tenths clear of Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu). Johann Zarco (Esponsorama Racing) was third quickest despite still recovering from a broken scaphoid, the fastest Ducati at the test. There was plenty on show, and five factories in the top five!
Viñales was out on track focusing a lot on the medium tyre, which he didn’t use in the race on Sunday when he missed out on the podium from pole. He said he’s intending to use that more during the upcoming Emilia Romagna GP and work more on the graining issues with the medium – already improved – that affected him last weekend. In addition, a new exhaust was out on track from Yamaha along with a new carbon swingarm to try that they’ll probably use at the Emilia Romagna GP. A new rear brake system and chassis was also on show. Viñales said what he tried on Tuesday didn’t make a huge step forward, but allowed him to ride more relaxed – and that could help him to push more. His team-mate Valentino Rossi didn’t push for a fast lap and was 17th of 18 riders on the timesheets, but more can most definitely be expected from the number 46 on Sunday.
Rossi was also the man who debuted the new exhaust, the aim of which, according to Team Manager Massimo Meregalli, is drivability and top-end speed – important for the long straights in Barcelona and Aragon, although for the moment the riders have said there is no big improvement.
Massimo Meregalli – Monster Yamaha Team Director
“Overall, it was a productive day. We had a long list of components to try here, including the chassis, rear arm, muffler, finger rear brake, and some setting tweaks. Both riders did a lot of laps, which was necessary for us to be able to check all the items. We also used this test to try a tyre combination that we might consider for the next race – hard front, medium rear – that unfortunately we weren‘t able to try last weekend. The new chassis didn‘t bring to the table what we expected, and we decided to use the current chassis for the remainder of the season. We will use the next few days to study today‘s data. If we confirm the riders‘ feelings in the data, Maverick and Valentino will already start FP1 with some of the other new items that we tried today.”
Maverick Vinales
Maverick Vinales
“I‘m still a bit disappointed about what happened on Sunday, because also today we were strong. Even after I crashed, I immediately did a fast lap afterwards, I was able to ride a 1‘31-medium. I rode that best lap time with the new parts, and it feels like it can maybe help me gain something for the race. Already last week the bike was really good, and it‘s difficult to improve it. With the new part I can ride the same lap times, but much more relaxed. This is a positive sign. It means that if I need to push, maybe I can ride a little bit faster. During this test we solved the problem with the graining that I had with the medium tyre, so for sure we will try to ride more with the medium tyre this weekend, but also the soft worked really well. I could do many laps and I finished the session with some 1‘32-low laps, which is really good for us. We just need to understand why I lose grip during the race and feel like I‘m riding on ice, because if that‘s fixed, I can ride very fast and hit really good lap times without being on the limit.”
Maverick Vinales
Valentino Rossi
“We did a lot of hard work today, I did many laps, because we had a lot of different stuff to try. The test was not so bad. We worked on the bike. As always, out of all the things we tried, some were an improvement, others weren‘t. But overall it was a good test. We found something that was positive, so we will try to be stronger for the upcoming weekend.”
New exhaust almost resembles an old style megaphone
Fabio Quartararo (Petronas Yamaha SRT) tried the exhaust too and ended the day in ninth, 0.804 off the top as he focused on race pace. His team-mate and Misano race winner Franco Morbidelli sat the test out due to a stomach complaint.
Fabio Quartararo
Wilco Zeelenberg – Petronas Yamaha SRT Team Manager
“This was our last test of this season and it went quite smoothly. It is clear that our pace is quite good and we have improved in that area. We were missing two or three tenths in the time attack compared to others, but we were very strong in that area last year. We know overall it is more important to be better in the long runs than the time attack, so this was the area that we wanted to focus on. Franco had a stomach upset this morning, which is not ideal for a long day of testing. We discussed it together and decided not to start today. It is not something that worries us for the weekend, but with the next race starting Friday and another race next weekend, it was better for him not to ride today.”
Fabio Quartararo
Fabio Quartararo
“It’s been a positive test and it feels good to be back on the bike after a tough weekend. I’m really happy with the test because we worked on our pace and on 23 or 24 lap old tyres I was setting some of my fastest laps. We’ve tested many things today and my crew have a lot to look at with the data as well now. It’s all good things to take into the race weekend. In my first run I also tested riding with the standard headset. It’s a strange feeling but it was okay. I hope that we use it only for safety, not for communication with the team. I felt great all test though: we know what our weak points are, I think we will improve even more ahead of Friday and I think we will have a good race weekend.”
Franco Morbidelli
“It’s a pity to not have been a part of today’s test, because it would be really useful to test new settings for this weekend and the next races. This morning I didn’t feel well and, together with the team, we decided to rest and be fully ready for the start of this second race at home. We go into this race at Misano fully confident about our possibilities and willing to repeat a great result in front of the Italian fans. We are working really well together as a team and we have to continue in the same way. Last weekend was perfect; with the win and the first row on Saturday. I wish to fight for the same.”
Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu) was second on the timesheets, seemed happy with a step forward and got to ride the 2020 bike too. That got a positive review, with “no negatives” although he suffered a small crash on it that he put down to hitting a bump.
Takaaki Nakagami – P2
“This morning I had the opportunity to get a taster of the 2020 RC213V, the test bike used by Stefan Bradl. I didn’t do too many laps, it was just a first taste but it was quite good. We tried to understand the bike a bit, but unfortunately I had a crash at turn one because I got a big impact off the bumps and I lost the front. It was quite a simple crash, but then we went back to our bike to work on the set-up for this weekend. We tested many items, and definitely we have improved from last weekend. I can say that we are now at a really competitive level on all laps, and even a qualifying lap too. I got into the 1’31 bracket for the first time and ended the day P2 so I’m pretty happy about that. That should mean we are competitive this weekend. We still will have work to do, because whenever you test there is always a lot of grip on the track. Anyway, we are definitely heading in the right direction and we have a good base for Misano race two.”
Takaaki Nakagami
Alex Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) was P11 overall and on test duty for a few things including a new Honda exhaust and aero. The Spaniard explained that he went faster than he did over the weekend on his second run of the day, and that he has managed to find a better feeling over one lap. Cal Crutchlow (LCR Honda Castrol) remained sidelined by injury, and Stefan Bradl (Repsol Honda Team) also sat out the test, not planned to be on track after having already tested at the venue ahead of the GP.
Alex Marquez
“It was a really good test today, I’m happy about it. From my second run of the day I was already faster than during the race weekend – this is always positive. We focused a lot on improving this year’s bike, but we tried some things for the future as well. We improved the setup, and this is really positive, some changes have helped me to be more consistent but also to be faster over one lap. There’s still a gap to close to the top, but I am feeling more positive and ready for the next weekend in Misano. The forecast and everything looks quite similar, so I am excited to see how we have grown since the first race.”
Alex Marquez
Zarco, in third, appeared pleasantly surprised by his feeling on the bike as he continues his recovery from scaphoid surgery just ahead of the Styrian GP. He was quick, as ever, and top Ducati after a solid fast lap. He suffered a small crash exiting pitlane but nothing too dramatic.
Johann Zarco – P3
“I am happy with today in general, I did not expect to do so many laps. In the afternoon, the plan was to do a few runs and stop, but since we had things to test and the feeling was really good that we decided to do it. Every time we went out on the track I felt good with the bike, I felt comfortable and this is very positive. Happy with the test, very happy with the fastest lap, it was impressive to get down from 1.32, and it is a good sign for the weekend.”
Johann Zarco
The man fresh from a maiden podium, Francesco Bagnaia (Pramac Racing), was seventh despite his ongoing recovery from a broken leg… and that was also the reason he elected to test only in the morning.
Pecco Bagnaia
“Very positive day, With the team we immediately found the right setup. My pace was very fast since de beginning, and I finished the session in top 3. I will not do the afternoon session because I want to rest my leg, but I can’t wait to get back on track on Friday.”
Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati Team) was the next man from the Borgo Panigal factory on the timesheets as he ended the day in eighth – and pretty glowing. He also only tested in the morning with “no reason” to continue in the afternoon once the work was done and some solutions found. He was working on the setup and the details, as ever, and praised a new part that had arrived and the increase in confidence he’d been able to achieve on Tuesday.
Andrea Dovizioso
“I am satisfied with this day of testing: this morning, we were able to complete our program, working on the details that interested us most. After a difficult weekend like the past one, it would not have made sense to continue testing even in the afternoon, since we will have another three days to be able to work. Compared to the last GP, I feel I can be much more competitive this weekend. Still, we have to keep our feet on the ground: our rivals have also been working to improve and getting a spot on the front rows will be even more important, but in general, I am confident and positive“.
Andrea Dovizioso
Jack Miller (Pramac Racing) was a little more downbeat but continued work on the first sector and Turn 11, and tried the chassis updates from Ducati. He was P12 overall despite some technical trouble when he’d wanted to use the same time of the day as the race to work on another step forward.
Jack Miller
“Today we have tried different set up, we were able to understand certain mistakes, and we will also have Friday and Saturday to be on track. Unfortunately a technical problem did not allow me to be on track a lot this afternoon but I am still satisfied.”
Danilo Petrucci (Ducati Team) was in P16 and using Dovizioso as a spotter in the afternoon as he looks for some progress, with Tito Rabat (Esponsorama Racing) in P18 and suffering a technical issue during the test.
Danilo Petrucci
“It has been a very demanding day: we used all the track time available, trying different things to solve the problems that we had during the past race weekend. Unfortunately, we are still struggling, and I am not satisfied at the end of these two free practice sessions. I hope that in the next two days before the race we will be able to finally understand how to get much closer to the front in this GP“.
Danilo Petrucci
Tito Rabat
“It has been a day where I have been able to test a lot of things, despite having a problem from the beginning with the rear soft tyre. Both in the morning and in the afternoon the tyre broke very quickly, after five laps the tyre was completely destroyed. This has affected the work plan a bit, but in the end when we were going to set the soft tyre again we broke the engine, and we did not have a spare in this test, so we could not test more things. We now have two days off before a new weekend.”
Tito Rabat
At KTM, Pol Espargaro (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) was the lead man on the timesheets in P4, and explained how his main aim was to improve grip and stability, especially on the rear. The stability through the fast corners had been improved, as has the grip on entry. Espargaro didn’t push for a lap time and was working a lot on race pace.
Pol Espargaro
Three of the four KTM riders were putting in the laps, with Iker Lecuona (Red Bull KTM Tech3) sitting out the action and leaving Espargaro, Lecuona’s team-mate Miguel Oliveira and fellow rookie Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) on track. Red Bull KTM Factory Team Principal Mike Leitner said that they were trying to improve the turning of the RC16, with the riders also appearing with a new white cover over some cables that come out from the tank cover, go around the steering head and back under the tank cover on the other side… Binder ended the day in P10 overall, and Oliveira P13. The Portuguese rider also had a small crash and said he didn’t have many new parts to try, working instead on a more immediate step forward for the Emilia Romagna GP.
Pol Espargaro
“It’s been a pretty good day. We had some question marks after Sunday and the weekend but we had a great test and improved our problems. The track was better without the rubber of the other classes – which helped – but we also tried many things on the bike that allowed us to be better. The rhythm was fine, it was nice, and the lap-time was not too bad on medium tires. Everything looks promising for the weekend.”
Pol Espargaro
Brad Binder
“This afternoon I felt a bit better on the bike. We tried quite a few different things and I felt a couple will benefit me for the GP. All-in-all it was a positive day but I’m still very far from where I want to be with the fastest lap-time and my race rhythm, however it is a good step up from what we had in the race last weekend. I still want more if possible.”
Brad Binder
Miguel Oliveira
“I’m excited to get going again this weekend at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli. Our motivation is to turn around the result and improve it. Especially securing a better Qualifying position than we had during the first round here, so this would help a lot to gain a better position during the race as well.”
Miguel Oliveira
Mike Leitner – Red Bull KTM Race Manager
“In general all three riders did a good job today because it was not easy to plan for this test. We had some future items for the bike but, of course, we had some things we wanted to fix to have a better second race weekend. It ended up positive because people worked on different targets and we made some interesting discoveries. We’ll now look ahead to our second race attempt here at Misano.”
Hervé Poncharal – Red Bull KTM Tech3 Team Manager
“We are experiencing our third back to back weekend on the same circuit this year and as usual it will be very interesting to see what we can improve on our bike. Clearly, the weather seems quite stable, so we don’t expect a huge difference there. But having so much time to work here should make this weekend even better. We were quite happy with the race pace of both, Miguel and Iker. Our weak point was just the single fast lap for Qualifying in order to get a better grid position as I said a few times this season. We can see that the twisty section straight after the start is making it difficult to overtake, so we need to qualify better. I believe the race setup will not be very different to what we used the last weekend. We also had the luck to test a few things today with Miguel, which was nothing dramatic, but hopefully helping us to close the gap we need to shrink. Clearly, this is going to be more about understanding the bike better and trying to fine tune it. We were not too far from the top anyway, everybody was very close together. We ended up 12 seconds behind the top last Sunday, of which we lost six only in the opening laps. This is showing, where we need to work on. Iker didn’t test today, as he has not enough experience to compare small evolutions. Therefore, he opted for working with his team on the race data and rest in order to be fully recharged for Friday morning. We are very happy with the way he works and I think, he can do a significant step the coming weekend as well.”
Over in the Team Suzuki Ecstar garage, Team Manager Davide Brivio said Joan Mir and Alex Rins tried a different swingarm, although the initial feedback was that it didn’t make much of a difference, so Suzuki won’t be using it – according to Brivio himself. Rins, fifth overall, said he had a positive day though as he tried the swingarm and some electronic settings, and that he was riding comfortably free from pain despite some complaints in the latter laps of the San Marino GP as he continues to fight back to full fitness. Mir said he was happy with his day’s work overall too, which included some setting changes… and not pushing for a lap time. The Spaniard said he and Suzuki tried to improve their qualifying pace, but ended up improving their race pace even more if that’s a good warning shot for many. He was only just off his teammate, in P6 by the end of play.
Davide Brivio – Team Suzuki
“It’s been a positive day and a good test where we went through several different things. We tested a new swing arm which Joan had already tried last weekend, but today we had the chance to look at it in more depth. Alex tried it for the first time today. At the moment we’re not fully convinced that it’s an improvement, so we’re not planning to introduce it at the moment. Then we worked on electronics and settings, trying different ways to set up the bike, despite the fact that both riders are happy with the performance of the GSX-RR right now. We also tried tyre options. Overall, we’re feeling prepared for the race this weekend.”
Alex Rins
Alex Rins
“The problem I had in my arm on Sunday during the race was really quite bad, so yesterday I worked with my physiotherapist and today I tried some small adjustments with the bike in terms of riding position to try and prevent pain this weekend. It looks like it has helped a bit, so let’s see. Today has been very positive and I feel good, we worked well on the electronics and settings. Everyone was fast today but I had strong lap times, so I hope to bring that forward into this weekend.”
Alex Rins
Joan Mir
“It’s been a good test today, we worked on many areas of the bike, but nothing really big, and we also had some new things to try, such as the swing arm. We managed to improve my feeling with the bike a bit after working on settings. I didn’t push for a fast lap today, I was just concentrating on testing. I’m happy with the work done; now let’s see if what we found today will make the difference when it comes to the next race this Sunday.”
Joan Mir
Aprilia Racing Team Gresini’s Aleix Espargaro and Bradley Smith were testing the holeshot system on the rear, with the intention of trying to use it during the race – just like Ducati – in the near future. Chassis and electronics were also a focus for the Noale factory, with Espargaro trying a setting that gives him more torque, the aim being to give him more pace over a qualifying lap. Smith was happy to set a mid-1:32 and confirmed he was testing a new chassis too, with the Brit putting in a mammoth 96 laps over the course of the two sessions. He was P14 just 0.055 behind Espargaro, who was in turn only 0.006 off Oliveira.
Indian Motorcycle has just announced its complete 2021 model year lineup. The American V-twin manufacturer’s lineup remains relatively unchanged, save for the Vintage Dark Horse and Roadmaster Limited. New technology is also available on the touring line of motorcycles, as well as numerous new factory accessories.
From Press Release:
Indian Motorcycle, America’s First Motorcycle Company, today announced its 2021 model-year lineup. The new lineup, which includes new model iterations, next-level technology upgrades, and a robust offering of genuine Indian Motorcycle accessories, is made available following the brand’s strongest sales quarter ever.
“We’re extremely motivated by the significant brand momentum we’re experiencing, and we’re as focused as ever to provide our riders with best-in-class products and experiences,” said Reid Wilson, Vice President of Indian Motorcycle. “Our riders are extremely discerning, with high expectations across the board and it’s incumbent upon us to stay on the cutting edge in style, performance, and technology. Our 2021 lineup additions and upgraded features are a result of the hard work and dedication we pour into every bike in the lineup.”
Developed in direct response to rider feedback, Indian Motorcycle’s 2021 enhancements and new offerings span across its Thunderstroke, PowerPlus and Scout lineups.
Indian Thunderstroke and PowerPlus Models
2021 Indian Vintage Dark Horse.
Joining the Indian Motorcycle cruiser lineup is the new Indian Vintage Dark Horse. For riders who want timeless style with a mean attitude, the Indian Vintage Dark Horse comes with soft black leather bags and fully blacked-out styling.
Featuring significant upgrades in 2021, the Roadmaster lineup is better than ever. Apple CarPlay® is now standard across the lineup, while Roadmaster Limited and Roadmaster Dark Horse models feature Indian Motorcycle’s all-new ClimaCommand Rogue heated and cooled seat with Ride Command integration.
2021 Indian Roadmaster Limited.
Joining the Roadmaster lineup is the Roadmaster Limited, which features gloss paint, chrome finishes, a modern fairing design, open front fender and slammed saddlebags. Meanwhile, the restyled Roadmaster Dark Horse includes fully blacked-out finishes for mean and modern attitude. Each model is powered by Indian Motorcycle’s powerful, air-cooled Thunderstroke 116 with premium features, including Metzeler Cruisetec® tires, lower fairings with adjustable airflow vents, heated grips and a push-button adjustable windshield. Standard amenities across the entire Roadmaster lineup include remote-locking saddlebags and trunk with over 37 gallons of combined storage, adjustable passenger floorboards, ABS, cruise control, keyless ignition, tire pressure monitoring and full LED lighting.
2021 Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse.
Furthermore, the power buttons on the Chieftain, Roadmaster, Indian Springfield, and Indian Challenger models have been relocated to the switch cube on the handlebars to accommodate a new 12-volt charge port on the dash. The charge port conveniently provides riders with an opportunity to plug in and connect to a wider range of electronics.
2021 Indian Roadmaster Limited infotainment system.
Innovative Technology
The 2021 lineup boasts new ride-enhancing technology, both as standard equipment and as an upgrade.
ClimaCommand Heated & Cooled Seat
Indian ClimaCommand heated and cooled seat.
In addition to being standard equipment on the Roadmaster Limited and Roadmaster Dark Horse, Indian Motorcycle’s new ClimaCommand heated and cooled seat is also available as an upgrade across all Thunderstroke models. New for 2021, the ClimaCommand seat is available in two style variations, Classic and Rogue, which has more modern, streamlined style. Additionally, the 2021 ClimaCommand seat now allows riders to adjust heating and cooling directly through the Ride Command infotainment system on select 2020 and 2021 models, offering riders a new, and easy way to manage comfort while on the road. With a low, medium, or high setting, the thermoelectric technology is used to independently cool or heat the rider and passenger seat, while a flexible graphene material allows the heating or cooling to disperse through the entire surface area of the seat. The non-perforated seat is 100% water resistant and highly durable. The ClimaCommand seat is available as an added accessory for all 2014 through 2021 Thunderstroke models, though 2020 and 2021 Chieftain and Roadmaster riders can integrate the seat within the bike’s Ride Command system.
Apple CarPlay®
Standard on all 2021 Roadmaster, Chieftain, and Indian Challenger models equipped with Ride Command with navigation. Apple CarPlay® delivers an easier, more customized level of control for music, navigation preferences, and mobile device information.
Pathfinder Adaptive LED Headlight & Pathfinder S LED Driving Lights
Pathfinder Adaptive LED Headlight and Pathfinder S LED Driving Lights.
Available as an accessory upgrade, Indian Motorcycle introduces the all-new Pathfinder Adaptive LED Headlight for most 2015-2021 Thunderstroke models, and Pathfinder S LED Driving lights for most Chieftain, Roadmaster, and Indian Challenger models. The all-new Pathfinder Adaptive LED Headlight senses the bike’s lean angle and activates individual LED projector beams to provide unprecedented visibility. With 15 individual beams, and featuring patented, cutting-edge technology that monitors the bike’s lean angle in real-time, the Adaptive Headlight delivers unmatched illumination of the road ahead – whether upright and traveling in a straight line or leaned over to carve a turn. In addition, the Pathfinder S LED Driving Lights can be added to complement the Pathfinder Adaptive LED Headlight. With the same superior LED illumination as the Pathfinder Adaptive LED Headlight, riders will benefit with even more nighttime visibility.
PowerBand Audio New for 2021, riders can now upgrade the Indian Challenger’s audio experience with PowerBand Audio quick release trunk amplified speaker kit. When paired with PowerBand Audio Plus, this system delivers exceptional sound and clarity from high-output fairing and saddlebag speakers that are 50% louder than the Indian Challenger’s stock audio system.
Touring & Comfort Accessories
Indian quick-release trunk.
In 2021, Indian Challenger riders can pack for the long haul and enjoy new touring amenities. The Indian Challenger quick release trunk adds 17 gallons of additional storage. Similar to the Indian Roadmaster trunk, the Indian Challenger trunk is lockable via key fob and can fit two full-face helmets. When paired with the Slim Trunk Passenger Backrest Pad, passengers have up to 2 inches of additional room for comfort.
For both Indian Challenger and Thunderstroke models, a new low-profile quick release padded sissy bar with low-profile passenger pad, is available to those who want added passenger comfort without sacrificing the bike’s low-profile and sleek styling.
Indian quick-release sissy bar.
Additionally, Indian Challenger and Thunderstroke riders can add even more wind protection with taller accessory windshield options and added comfort with an extended reach seat, infinite highway pegs and a pinnacle heel shifter. For those riding two-up, a quick release passenger sissy bar, passenger backrest pad, and passenger floorboards add passenger comfort.
For Thunderstroke models, Indian Motorcycle offers a full package of comfort and passenger accommodations, including extended reach seat, mid-rise and 16-inch ape hanger handlebars, rider and passenger back rests, color matching quick release trunk, passenger arm rests and more. Indian Challenger riders can upgrade with mid-rise handlebars, a tinted curved windshield, and front highway bars.
Performance Upgrades
Stage 1 slip-on exhaust.
Indian Motorcycle’s lineup of Thunderstroke performance accessories significantly modify the overall look, sound, and performance of each engine. The stage 1 slip-on exhaust, available in black or chrome, improves sound for both the Thunderstroke 111 and Thunderstroke 116. Indian Motorcycle’s stage 1 oval slip-on muffler kit and stage 1 performance air intake together increase horsepower by 4% with the Thunderstroke 111 and 8% with the Thunderstroke 116. By adding the stage 2 performance cams, riders will gain 13% more horsepower when compared to a stock Thunderstroke 111. The Thunderstroke 116 stage 2 performance kit, which includes cams, higher flowing fuel injectors and throttle body, produce a 17% horsepower boost when paired with both Stage 1 accessories. Riders can also upgrade any Indian Motorcycle model packing the Thunderstroke 111 with its Thunderstroke 116 stage 3 big bore kit, which produces 20% more horsepower when compared to a stock Thunderstroke 111.
For Indian Challenger riders, the stage 1 slip-on muffler and PowerPlus stage 1 air intake improves sound and style.
Paint & Pricing
Indian Vintage Dark Horse: Starting at $19,499, available in Thunder Black Smoke.
Indian Vintage: Starting at $20,499, available in Crimson Metallic, and Deepwater Metallic over Dirt Track Tan
Indian Springfield: Starting at $21,999, available in Maroon Metallic over Crimson Metallic, and Thunder Black over Dirt Track Tan.
Indian Springfield Dark Horse: Starting at $22,499, available in Thunder Black Smoke, Sagebrush Smoke, and White Smoke.
Chieftain: Starting at $21,999, available in Thunder Black.
Chieftain Dark Horse: Starting at $27,999, available in Thunder Black Smoke, Ruby Smoke, and Titanium Smoke.
Chieftain Limited: Starting at $27,999, available in Thunder Black Pearl, and Radar Blue.
Indian Challenger: Starting at $22,999, available in Thunder Black, and Titanium Smoke.
Indian Challenger Dark Horse: Starting at $27,999, available in Thunder Black Smoke, White Smoke, and Bronze Smoke.
Indian Challenger Limited: Starting at $27,999, available in Thunder Black Pearl, Ruby Metallic, and Deepwater Metallic.
Roadmaster: Starting at $29,999, available in Thunder Black Pearl, Maroon Metallic over Crimson Metallic, and Alumina Jade over Thunder Black.
Roadmaster Dark Horse: Starting at $29,999, available in Thunder Black Smoke, White Smoke, and Bronze Smoke.
Roadmaster Limited: Starting at $30,749, available in Crimson Metallic and Thunder Black Azure Crystal.
Indian Scout Models
2021 Indian Scout
Indian Motorcycle’s robust Scout lineup offers both classically-styled and modernly-mean designs. With a 61 cubic-inch (1000 cc) motor, delivering 78 horsepower, the Scout Sixty and Scout Bobber Sixty are each approachable and attainable with an MSRP starting at $8,999. Riders looking for more punch can opt for the 69 cubic-inch (1133 cc), 100 horsepower, engine in the Scout and Scout Bobber.
2021 Indian Scout Bobber
This year’s 2021 Scout lineup receives a refresh with new paint colors – further enhancing the iconic style and lines of the bike. Colors like Stealth Gray on the Scout Bobber Twenty and Maroon Metallic Smoke on the Scout Bobber add to the aggressive, low profile look that riders love with Scout Bobber models.
2021 Indian Scout Sixty
Scout Accessories
2021 Indian Scout Bobber w/ accessories.
Already a robust line of genuine Scout accessories, Indian Motorcycle is adding even more in 2021. With all-new Scout touring parts, riders can turn their city cruiser into a capable long-haul touring machine. A Scout Bobber low or mid wind deflector protects riders from the elements, while heated grips for all 2017-2021 Scout models keep your hands warm in cold weather conditions. In addition, a new fairing bag and semi-rigid saddlebags add stylish storage options. Finally, a color-matched quick release fairing with a two-inch windshield is available for all Scout models in new 2021 colorways.
2021 Indian Scout Sixty w/ accessories.
Indian Motorcycle’s Scout performance upgrades can seriously change the overall attitude of any Scout. Exhaust and muffler options change the aesthetic, while increasing horsepower by over 10% when paired with the performance air intake. Options include the stage 1 2-in-1 full exhaust system and the stage 1 shorty slip-on muffler kit – both available in chrome and matte black.
Paint & Pricing
Scout Sixty: Starting at $8,999, available in Thunder Black, and Ruby Metallic.
Scout Bobber Sixty: Starting at $8,999, available in Thunder Black, Thunder Black Smoke, Blue Slate Smoke, and Titanium Metallic.
Scout: Starting at $11,499, available in Thunder Black, Deepwater Metallic, White Smoke, and Maroon Metallic over Crimson Metallic.
Scout Bobber: Starting at $10,999, available in Thunder Black, Thunder Black Smoke, White Smoke, Alumina Jade Smoke, and Maroon Metallic Smoke.
Scout Bobber Twenty: Starting at $11,999, available in Thunder Black, Thunder Black Smoke, Stealth Gray, and Sagebrush Smoke.
Thunderstroke and Scout models are arriving at dealerships now, and 2021 Indian Challenger models will ship in October. Riders can learn more or test ride by visiting a local Indian Motorcycle dealership. For more information on the 2021 lineup, or to find the nearest dealer, visit IndianMotorcycle.com and follow along on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
2021 Indian Motorcycle Model Lineup Photo Gallery:
Motorcycles, scooters, and mopeds are an ideal alternative to public transport as people social distance during the pandemic, says Australia’s first world motorcycle champion Wayne Gardner.
In a second YouTube video to promote a “Better Deal for Riders” petition, Wayne says social distancing is now part of our lifestyle and powered two-wheelers are the answer as well as “fun”.
>He urges riders to sign the Two Wheel Action Group’s petition calling for a better deal for riders that includes free tolls and parking, and lower rego and insurance.
Click here if you would like to sign the petition that will go to appropriate state and federal ministers. Or use this QR Code.
It calls for a raft of concessions to get Australia moving on a more convenient form of transport than public transport which is being shunned by the public with genuine fears of Coronavirus infection.
Key points:
Lower the cost of powered two-wheel registration and compulsory third party insurance ($50 – 50cc, $100 – LAMS, $200 – Open standardise across all states);
50cc scooters, mopeds, and equivalent electric bikes able to be ridden on a car license Australia-wide;
Incentives for commuters to buy electric-powered bikes through green fund rebates (as per current solar rebates) and no stamp duty charges;
National exemption from motorway, bridge and tunnel toll charges; and
Free parking and footpath parking, except in public thoroughfares and walkways.
TWAG spokesman and retired industry veteran Stuart Strickland says it’s not enough, but it’s a “good start”.
“There more than one million motorcycle license holders in Australia, so it is reasonable to assume they will sign if they are presented with the petition,” he says.
“The petition requires serious numbers to influence changes to legislation. We haven’t sought endorsements from politicians.”
Stuart says the petition is the first “positive behaviour by anyone in the motorcycle community for a long time”.
“TWAG wants to get dialogue going on motorcycling issues and the timing is right with COVID impacting every Australian.
“Personal mobility, economics, and social distancing are best handled with small motorcycles and scooters.”
More videos will be rolled out over the next four weeks through Facebook and YouTube.
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