Review: Earnest Co’s ‘Smiths’ K-Canvas Jacket

Unless 2020 scared you into a prepper cave somewhere in the desert, you’ll no doubt have noticed a trend over the past few years for ‘moto workwear’. Put simply, it’s gear that’s made for both the workshop and the ride to and from it. Antipodean innovators in their field are the Aussie/Kiwi-based Earnest Co., who have been owning the style locally since they were founded in 2012.

With this trend in mind, we decided to try out their front-runner in the segment. Ticking all the boxes with ‘factory’ looks, Kevlar protection and some seriously heavy-duty construction, we spent a few weeks testing the thing out both on and off the bike. Please meet the ‘Smiths’ Kevlar and Denim jacket.

Earnest Co. 'Smiths' K-Canvas Moto Workwear Jacket

What is it?

This is the company’s flagship – and only – jacket. Being a home-bred concern, Earnest Co. ain’t a business to bang out 13 different types of jackets to corner every part of the market. No siree. Proponents of the ‘do it once and do it properly’ school of thought, this is their sole jacket offering. And while the temptation would have been to try and be a ‘something for everyone’ type product, it’s actually surprisingly focused.

What you get is essentially a CE-rated Kevlar and denim jacket in any colour you like, as long as it’s charcoal. This functional approach continues to the design itself, which is part classic denim jacket and part Chairman Mao uniform. If standing out from the crowd is your thing, then this probably isn’t the jacket for you.

Who’s Earnest, then?

Headed up by Aussie fabricator, mechanic, customiser and drift addict, Nigel Petrie, the company was started in New Zealand and Nigel liked it so much he bought a chunk of it, making it a dual-country concern. There’s little doubt that he and his colleagues know what they are talking about. This is no fashion-obsessed, latte-sipping bunch of pret-a porter prima donnas; it’s more a group of builders and riders who saw a gap in the market because they just weren’t finding the gear they were after themselves.

The company is now a well-known force in the ANZ moto scene, too. Think of them as small, crafty bike fanatics rather than giant multinational megacorp owned by some suits who prefer calculators to motorcycles.

The other cool part to this is that your hard-earned will go straight back to the riders who got off their butts and built the company from scratch. If you’re into buying grassroots and not feathering the nest of some random non-biker CEO, Earnest Co. would be a great choice to consider.

Earnest Co. 'Smiths' K-Canvas Moto Workwear Jacket

What’s it look like?

Refreshingly devoid of skulls, flames or fluro colours, it’s not going to match with your lime green Harley chopper. Not unless you’re an ‘opposites attract’ freak. Quite frankly, I really like the look and I’ve worn it out sans my moto, too. It’s that cool.

Of course, the intention here is that you can jump straight off the bike and start work without having to change your gear, so it makes sense that dark (i.e grease-proof) colours and zero screaming skulls is the order of the day.

And I don’t think it’s too much to say that you’d look pretty decent grabbing a coffee or a beer at your favourite drink dispensers, too. While the lack of armour does reduce your protection should you come a cropper, it also means you’ll be able to wear the thing in more situations without feeling or looking like you’re dressed in a Hulk body suit.

Earnest Co. 'Smiths' K-Canvas Moto Workwear Jacket

What’s it made like?

Cut entirely from Earnest’s own 13oz ‘K-Canvas’ Kevlar cotton blend (it just looks alot like denim to me), the thing feels as tough as nails on first inspection. If they told me that it’d stand up on its own if positioned correctly, I’d totally buy it. Yes, it’ll probably soften up after long-term use but like a decent pair of heavy jeans, you can tell this thing’s tough.

If you were handed this on your first day of work in your local moto engine foundry, you’d be more than happy that management (or the local metal-workers union) had your safety front-of-mind.

And while I would have liked to have seen it made locally in with OZ or NZ, it’s sewn up in China and then shipped down under for distribution. Yes, local-made is better, but the added increase in price is probably something that most of us would not be willing to cop.

Earnest Co. 'Smiths' K-Canvas Moto Workwear Jacket

What features does it have?

What the jacket lacks in pretence and colour it more than makes up for in usability. This is clearly a product that’s been thought through to the n-th degree. A great example of this is the way the lower buttons on the front of the jacket are covered to protect your bike’s tank. And the rear length ensures you aren’t exposing the base of your back while you’re hunched over on the bike.

There’s also a bunch of external pockets – with some being divided into separate tool holders – that show a similarly researched understanding of what both the average biker and the career toolsperson would need. This includes a padded breast pocket for a mobile phone, decreasing your chances of broken screen both on the road and in the workshop.

Earnest Co. 'Smiths' K-Canvas Moto Workwear Jacket pocket detail

Photo by Ben Pilatti

Other neat-o details includes spark and slash resistance, triple stitching and plenty of reinforcement on pocket entries (think copper rivets, but again without the scratched bike), reinforced sleeves/elbows, and a top button that’s not going to choke you should you decide to do the jacket all the way up.

blackbird moto wear fly by night jacket

Notable exceptions to the design are the exclusion of armour, the lack of internal pockets and there’s no removable lining to keep you snug on colder days. Also, no reflectivity to help you be seen on the road. And while this completely makes sense when you consider the design brief it was made to, some still might pine for these. Personally, I like to keep my phone inside my jacket so that a little rain doesn’t risk me voiding my warranty, but that’s me.

Earnest Co. 'Smiths' K-Canvas Moto Workwear Jacket detail

Why should I buy one?

If you’re currently in possession of a fully-armoured leather jacket that is overkill for inner-city trips and makes you sweat in summer like a criminal in a police club sauna, then this is the jacket for you. It’s not gonna be as breezy as some options when the mercury rises, but unless you’re cashed up enough to buy a jacket for every single season, it’s a great option.

Those who like long trips at freeways speeds and that don’t have an fully-armoured jacket option will want to look elsewhere, or consider wearing individual back and shoulder protectors under the jacket to keep you safe should the bitumen suddenly jump up and take a bite out of you.

And yes, the workshop look and functionality is great, but I feel that it’s more a nifty added extra than something that only mechanics and welders will look at. Honestly, its; not that limited; if Levi’s can sell a trucker jacket as a fashion accessory to the masses, then why not buy a Kevlar moto slash workshop jacket to wear on the street?

Earnest Co. 'Smiths' K-Canvas Moto Workwear Jacket detail

Pros:

  • Built like a tank
  • Beautifully functional
  • Nicely understated
  • Genuinely multi-purpose

Cons:

  • No armour as standard
  • Summer only, unless you layer up
  • No internal pockets

Right now, the jacket will set you back $310.00 NZD (that’s USD$222.00, £160.00, €185.00 and AUD$288 at time of writing). It comes in sizes S to XXL, but Nigel notes that sizing runs a little small, so maybe consider going for one size up than usual. Click below to find out more.

EARNEST CO. WORKWEAR

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Review: Blackbird Motorcycle Wear’s ‘Fly By Night’ Leather Jacket

Ah, the classics! There’s a good reason why they never go out of style. It’s all fine and well to have your Power Rangers outfits with their hi-viz this and their airbag that, but if you have a bike and helmet that suits, you’d be silly not to lean on history a little. Why, if it worked for Marlon Brando, James Dean and Elvis Presley, who are we to question it? Looking to get a little more leather in our lives, we spent a few weeks with brill cream in our hair and a Triumph between our knees while we gave the ‘Fly By Night’ Leather Jacket from Australia’s Blackbird Motorcycle Wear a good ol’ spin around the block.

And with Sydney now descending into Autumn, we weren’t a moment too soon, either. It goes without saying that reviewing a leather jacket in the height of a Sydney summer is like trying to hammer a nail with a banana; it’s the wrong tool for the job. So with a welcome layer of hide between us and the not-so-chilly Sydney Autumn, off we went. Read on to see what we thought.

blackbird moto wear fly by night jacket

What Is It, Exactly?

According to the Blackbird website, the Fly By Night is ‘a ladies leather motorcycle jacket that balances classic biker and edgy aviator style.’ Of course, the intermingling of the aviation and moto genres goes all the way back to WWII and the penchant ex-fly boys had for motorcycles and the as-close-as-you-can-get-to-flying thrills that they have always delivered. So off they went on their two-wheeled adventures, with their ex-air force gear in hand.

And the rest, as they say, is history. The cafe racers of the late ’50s in London adopted this double-breasted look and the city’s famous Lewis Leathers took the whole kit and kaboodle and set it in stone (or skin, as the case may be) with their still best-selling ‘Bronx Jacket No. 384.’

Taking this as their baseplate and adding their own little spin on things, Blackbird have tweaked the design both for modernity and to reinstate a little more ‘aviator’ style into the mix – most notably with the addition of a removable, genuine Aussie wool collar.

Who’s Blackbird Motorcycle Wear, Then?

Owned and run since 2013 by the Mother-and-Daughter team of Belinda and Matilda McPhee, the company was founded after a particularly spiritual moonlight run on a Ducati 1100 down a country road. In my head, the Beatles’ famous song ‘Blackbird’ is playing; but in reality, I guess the blast of the wind would have overwhelmed any Hollywood-like soundtracks. Damn you, real life.

I’ve been fortunate enough to meet the Blackbird team on numerous occasions and I can tell you that they are not only in the business for all the right reasons, but they also live and breathe the gear like only a family-run business can. There’s no faceless global megacorps here, just two passionate women who clearly love what they do.

blackbird moto wear fly by night jacket

What Does it Look Like?

Right out of the rather large Blackbird Moto Wear-branded shopping bag, the jacket impresses. Its weight is impressive without being unwieldy; this is clearly a substantial leather stock. Linings are 100% polyester and all zippers on the jacket are YKK brand – a good indication in my books that things are being done without corners being cut. Similarly, the detachable collar (which doesn’t come with the item and must be purchased at an additional cost if the necessity takes you) looks and feels top shelf.

And while it definitely draws from the classic aviator jacket of years gone by, the design has been simplified by Blackbird into a cleaner, less fussy look without the multitude of zips and pockets the original air force designed called for. The leather has a pleasant sheen to it before any decent patina has set in, and clearly it will be a few years until some decent aging is accomplished. And if it looks this good now, just imagine how it’ll look then?

blackbird moto wear fly by night jacket

What’s It Made Like?

The tags on the jacket indicate that it was crafted in Pakistan – aka the world’s tannery. There’s no surprises here. In this modern world of globalisation, a vast majority of the leather products you see on shelves come out of this part of the planet. Whether it’s a small boutique label like Blackbird or heavy hitters like AlpineStars, this is where modern moto gear is made. And you thought AlpineStars were an Italian brand?

Of course, the country of origin doesn’t dictate quality and I’m happy to report that this jacket ticks an army of boxes upon closer inspection. As always, the devil is in the details but nit-picky checks of the pocket linings and the compartments designed to take the CE-rated armour that comes supplied with the item is promising. And unlike some jackets I’ve reviewed in the past, all the press studs here fasten with a similar amount of pressure; there’s no ‘dud’ ones that seem to eternally pop open if you dare even look at them sideways.

And the smell? It’ll send vegans packing but if genuine leather is what you’re after, then this ‘Supersoft, natural milled cowhide’ will be the perfume for you. With a thickness of about 1.1 to 1.3mm across the entire item, it strikes a rather nice balance between toughness and useability. One issue I have come across in the past with certain types of Pakistani leather is that regular exposure to sun and the elements can cause some inconsistent fading – especially across the back and arms. Now I’m not suggesting that it will be an issue here, but it’s something to think about when considering a relatively small-batch item such as this.

blackbird moto wear fly by night jacket

What Features Does it Have?

As mentioned, it comes with a full set of CE protection armour; bright yellow shoulder, back and elbow memory foam squishies are for you to insert or not, as the mood or intended purpose of the jacket may call for. The woolen collar comes in two shades, ivory and black. The lining is a satin-finish polyester and the two external pockets are matched to two internal (and unzipped) ones.

Zips on the cuffs include some pretty substantial pulls, as do the external pockets and the big sister main zip that runs right up the front. For those unfamiliar with the design, this zip closes the jacket up entirely when put to use and the large lapels that go such a long way to providing the jacket its style are neatly folded away when needed, or when the temps drop to such a point that wind must be banned from your core.

Finally, some side buckles just above the hips allow a tighter hug should you see fit. Buckles here are aged with a tarnished finish, as below. This integrates them more comfortably into the overall look and prevents them from being too bling-y, too.

 blackbird moto wear fly by night jacket

Earnest Co. Tasker Moto Pants

Stitching is doubled up where required and the design itself means that when fully zipped, you’ll actually have two layers of hide at your front quarters should it ever come under sustained attack. The back of the jacket has a seam right up the middle that forms a sporty vee with the shoulder panel above it and the cut-off at the base of your back is extended ever-so-slightly to keep things covered up.

The final word in the features list is its clearly-intended functionality as a fashion piece alongside the fact that it can also save your bacon and keep you warm while riding. If you need any further justification as to why you should spend the money, a classic moto jacket like this will probably get used far more than you might think. You may not be riding at night with it on, but chances are you’ll definitely be using it after the sun goes down.

blackbird moto wear fly by night jacket on the road

Why Should I Buy One?

If the cafe racer boom of the past 15 years has taught us anything, it’s that some things never go out of style. If you have a bike and the helmet to match, then a classic leather jacket like this is a real no-brainer that should certainly go on your moto shopping list. The fact that you can wear it even when you’re not on the bike is just the cherry on the gasoline cake.

Yes, the design – or something like it –  is available from a plethora of brands from the boutique likes of Blackbird all the way up to the original gangsters like Lewis Leathers and Belstaff. Who you go with should you decide to pull the trigger on the purchase is entirely up to you, but I’m happy to say that this here Fly By Night jacket is well worth your consideration.

Pros:

  • Timeless styling
  • Well made
  • Wool collar is a great addition
  • Genuinely multi-purpose

Cons:

  • Zip pulls can flap about at speed

Right now, the Fly By Night jacket will set you back AUD$599.00 (that’s USD$466, £335 and €385 at the time of writing). It comes in sizes from XXS to XXL, and it ships free worldwide. Click below to find out more.

BLACKBIRD’S FLY BY NIGHT JACKET

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

E3 Spark Plugs Introduces E3 Lithium Batteries

You may know the name from its spark plug technology, but now E3 has gotten into the battery game with E3 Lithium Batteries.

Begin Press Release: 


E3 Spark Plugs Introduces E3 Lithium Powersports Batteries

Longer lasting, lightweight and more environmentally sound than conventional batteries

Ponta Vedre, FL (May 4, 2021) — E3 Spark Plugs, the makers of the patented DiamondFIRE Technology spark plug, announces the introduction of a new line of lithium phosphate powersports batteries. Born from cutting edge nano-scale materials, E3 Lithium promises to redefine power delivery in the powersports world.

“We are extremely excited to bring the most powerful, most economical lithium powersports battery on the market today to enthusiasts everywhere,” said E3 Vice President of Motorsports & Business Development, Rob Fisher. “These batteries are durable, ultra-lightweight and incredibly powerful. Plus, they are designed to deliver years of exceptional performance which we back up with an industry first 5 year warranty.”

Initially the product line features eight offerings, ranging in power output from 140 to 760 Cold Cranking Amps and covering a wide range of applications including motorcycles, ATVs, UTVs, side-by-sides, snowmobiles, personal watercraft and more.

Some of the performance benefits of the E3 Lithium line of powersports batteries include:

  • 80% lighter than traditional batteries
  • 3x longer life than traditional batteries
  • Charges much faster than traditional batteries
  • Delivers much quicker starts than traditional batteries
  • IP 66 Environmental Rating (pressure washer friendly)
  • Mounts in any position
  • Environmentally friendly

E3 Lithium Batteries feature an integrated Battery Management System (BMS) that maintains constant cell balancing to ensure that the output of the individual lithium packs inside the battery maintain equal output and charge levels at all times. In addition, the BMS offers the following model specific attributes to ensure years of trouble-free power delivery from your E3 Lithium Battery.

  • Overcharge Protection
  • Over-Discharge Protection
  • Short Circuit Protection
  • Excessive Cranking Protection
  • Built In Cell Balancing Technology
  • LED Battery Fault Light Indicator (select models only)

The MSRP starts at $160.00; which makes this line the lightest, most powerful and best value lithium battery line in its class.

For more information about E3 Lithium Batteries visit www.E3Lithium.com. For more information about E3 Spark Plugs, visit www.E3sparkplugs.com. For the latest company and product news follow E3 on FacebookTwitterInstagram, or subscribe to E3’s YouTube Channel.

The post E3 Spark Plugs Introduces E3 Lithium Batteries appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

FINALLY THEY ADMIT IT!! HRC – Honda Racing Corporation ADMITS THEY ARE FACING ISSUES!!

FINALLY THEY ADMIT IT!! HRC – Honda Racing Corporation ADMITS THEY ARE FACING ISSUES!!

“We’re facing some issues” – Puig opens up on HRC drama
For the first time, the Repsol Honda Team Manager has openly admitted that the Japanese factory are up against it in 2021

Repsol Honda Team’s Alberto Puig, usually unyielding in his views, has admitted for the first time that HRC are “facing some issues”. His comments come after Pol Espargaró branded the weekend “a mess”, believing the three different packages running in Jerez were doing more harm than good, and Marc Márquez likewise admitting they were “struggling a lot”.

Puig says “new parts” are coming and that was certainly the case at the Official Test with the Japanese factory unveiling five different aerodynamic packages, three different chassis and a whole host of other new items as they look to overcome their current predicament.

“The negative point is that we, as Honda HRC, understand that we are facing some issues with the bike” began the Repsol Honda boss. “But we have been able to already recognize them. We are trying our best, we are bringing new parts soon and we are willing, and already working very hard, to give our best to the riders for the next races.”

Puig, who was absent from Jerez with health issues, did, however, praise Honda’s leading light in Jerez: Taka_Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu). The Japanese rider matched his career-best MotoGP™ result of fourth, making the absolute most of the 2020 chassis at his disposal.

“Certainly, the race from Nakagami was one of the very positive points of Sunday in Jerez,” admitted Puig. “He overcame his physical issues that he sustained in his fall in Portimao, and he showed that he is mentally very strong. Taka was not in a perfect condition, but he did a good race and was only 0.7s away from his first podium in the premier class.

“Another positive was that Marc Marquez and Pol Espargaro were alright after they both had very big crashes. Marc, despite two very fast falls, was able to finish the race ten seconds behind the leader which, importantly, was three seconds closer to the winner than in Portugal.”

#MarcIsBack #MM93 #MMM93 #SpanishGP Marc Márquez Official Fan Club MALTA HRC – Honda Racing Corporation Box_Repsol

Source: Marc Márquez on Facebook

2021 Aprilia Tuono 660 MC Commute Review

There’s something that makes the middleweight naked category so enticing. Here, manufacturers combine technical know-how and performance of open-class machines with the approachability and user friendliness of smaller-displacement bikes. A prime example? It’s hard to argue the all-new 2021 Aprilia Tuono 660. This middleweight is an exciting new offering from the Italian manufacturer that eases the barrier of entry into the premium brand while still offering a heck of a riding experience.

Sharing an identical powerplant with the RS 660 supersport machine, the Tuono utilizes a 659cc parallel-twin engine that has been derived from the forward facing cylinders of the Tuono 1100 V4.

Sharing an identical powerplant with the RS 660 supersport machine, the Tuono utilizes a 659cc parallel-twin engine that has been derived from the forward facing cylinders of the Tuono 1100 V4. (Jeff Allen/)

The Tuono 660 has been dubbed a direct descendant of the popular 1100 V4. A bold designation by Aprilia, and not to mention, just the badging alone leaves serious shoes to fill. It follows in the footsteps of Aprilia’s other recent introduction, the RS 660 middleweight supersport, sharing an identical engine platform but receiving a number of tweaks aimed at optimizing its performance and personality.

The TFT display equipped to the Tuono 660 offers vital riding information at a quick glance, while serving as an easy platform to tailor the Aprilia Performance Ride Control (APRC) electronic rider-aid suite to rider preference.

The TFT display equipped to the Tuono 660 offers vital riding information at a quick glance, while serving as an easy platform to tailor the Aprilia Performance Ride Control (APRC) electronic rider-aid suite to rider preference. (Jeff Allen/)

Like the RS 660, the Tuono is powered by a 659cc DOHC parallel-twin engine that’s been derived from Aprilia’s legendary V-4 powerplant. Engineers chopped the rearward cylinders, increased the stroke measurement of the remaining cylinders, and tuned the mill to suit its intended application. Ran on our in-house Dynojet 250i dyno, this middleweight cranked out 87.0 hp at 10,600 rpm and 45.0 pound-feet of torque at 8,900 rpm.

Winglets! You be the judge, but the Tuono 660 in this concept black colorway is stunning.

Winglets! You be the judge, but the Tuono 660 in this concept black colorway is stunning. (Jeff Allen/)

There’s a strong rear-wheel connection via the Tuono 660′s throttle-by-wire system that translates to addicting and confidence-inspiring acceleration. Power is plentiful and approachable at nearly any rpm, but the combination of exhaust note and intake growl combined with impressive delivery around 8,000 rpm is remarkable and reminiscent of the V4 as it lifts the front tire skyward. It truly offers a taste of the almighty 1100 in a half-sized platform with less risk and more approachability. In fact, the Tuono is a delightfully smooth and comfortable ride at normal speeds, and only a hooligan when coaxed.

Specific to the Tuono 660, the KYB fork (spring preload and rebound adjustable) has received internal changes that allow for a more comfortable ride, while still holding enough support for spirited riding.

Specific to the Tuono 660, the KYB fork (spring preload and rebound adjustable) has received internal changes that allow for a more comfortable ride, while still holding enough support for spirited riding. (Jeff Allen/)

To enhance the Tuono 660′s performance and overall riding experience, engineers employed the Aprilia Performance Ride Control (APRC) electronic rider-aid suite, featuring various riding modes and selectable throttle response, traction control, wheelie control, engine-brake, and ABS settings. It’s important to note the seamless intervention of the TC and WC settings, which help to mitigate wheelspin and boost acceleration at corner exit without hindering the Tuono’s raw performance. Unlike its supersport sibling, the RS 660, the Tuono lacks an OE-fitted inertial measurement unit (IMU) and quickshifter. Both can be added as accessories for an additional $200 each. Our test rig came equipped with the bidirectional quickshifter which allows for seamless wide-open-throttle upshifts and clutchless downshifts.

Aprilia hit the ergonomic triangle of the Tuono 660 spot on. The one-piece motocross-style handlebar offers a relaxed reach with plenty of leverage, while the lower stance is relatively relaxed.

Aprilia hit the ergonomic triangle of the Tuono 660 spot on. The one-piece motocross-style handlebar offers a relaxed reach with plenty of leverage, while the lower stance is relatively relaxed. (Jeff Allen/)

Aprilia’s experience of building well-balanced, corner-carving chassis is on full display. The Tuono 660 offers a neutral, yet sporty ride with dedicated frame geometry and a shorter wheelbase than the RS 660. At a relatively lightweight 403 pounds with the 4.0-gallon fuel tank topped off, required handlebar effort is minimal to initiate corners, and it shreds on the side of the factory-fitted Pirelli Diablo Rosso II rubber. The KYB suspension, adjustable for spring preload and rebound damping front and rear, offers an impressive balance of small-bump compliance and big-hit support.

The Tuono 660′s Brembo four-piston calipers up front offer good stopping power with adequate feel at the brake lever. The three-level Engine Brake selection is also a nice touch. I preferred the middle setting to meet my preference of deceleration.

Brembo four-piston monoblock calipers up front bring this Tuono 660 to a quick halt. ABS intervention is seamless. Kudos, Aprilia.

Brembo four-piston monoblock calipers up front bring this Tuono 660 to a quick halt. ABS intervention is seamless. Kudos, Aprilia. (Jeff Allen/)

Ergonomically, the Tuono 660 strikes balance again. The reach to the one-piece motocross-style handlebar is relaxed with an in-command feel. Footpeg position has been altered in comparison to the RS 660 as one could imagine, pushing slightly forward and down for a more relaxed stance. Still, it is sporty enough to hustle the Tuono through tight twisties. The 32.2-inch seat height also aids in navigating slow-speed situations with an easy two-foot contact for this 5-foot-7-inch tester.

At $10,699 (as tested with the optional quickshifter), the 2021 Aprilia Tuono 660 is a remarkable machine that offers an easier gateway to the Tuono family, in more ways than one.

At $10,699 (as tested with the optional quickshifter), the 2021 Aprilia Tuono 660 is a remarkable machine that offers an easier gateway to the Tuono family, in more ways than one. ( Jeff Allen/)

Aprilia has created a ripper in the Tuono 660. The combination of an approachable, yet still edgy parallel-twin engine, sporty handling, premium componentry, and an unrivaled fit and finish make this a standout in the category. And one that rightfully earns the Tuono badge. Yes, the $10,499 MSRP is relatively expensive in this space, but the Tuono 660 is worth the buck.

Now, just a few more miles, please.

Gearbox

Helmet: Shoei RF-SR

Jacket: Alpinestars Newman Overshirt

Pants: Alpinestars Victory Denim

Boots: Alpinestars Faster-3 Rideknit

2021 Aprilia Tuono Specifications

MSRP: $10,499/$10,699 (as tested)
Engine: 659cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled parallel twin; 4 valves/cyl.
Bore x Stroke: 81.0 x 63.9mm
Compression Ratio: 13.5:1
Transmission/Final Drive: 6-speed/chain
Motorcyclist Measured Horsepower: 87.0 hp @ 10,600 rpm
Motorcyclist Measured Torque: 45.0 lb.-ft. @ 8,900 rpm
Fuel System: Fuel injection w/ 48mm throttle bodies
Clutch: Wet, multiplate w/ slipper system
Frame: Double-beam aluminum frame
Front Suspension: 41mm KYB inverted fork, spring preload and rebound damping adjustable; 4.7 in. travel
Rear Suspension: KYB monoshock, spring preload and rebound damping adjustable; 5.1 in. travel
Front Brake: Brembo radial-mount 4-piston calipers, 320mm discs w/ cornering ABS
Rear Brake: 1-piston caliper, 220mm disc
Wheels, Front/Rear: Aluminum alloy; 17 x 3.5 in. / 17 x 5.5 in.
Tires, Front/Rear: Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II; 120/70-17 / 180/55-17
Rake/Trail: 24.1°/4.1 in.
Wheelbase: 54.3 in.
Seat Height: 32.3 in.
Fuel Capacity: 4.0 gal.
Motorcyclist Measured Wet Weight: 403 lb.
Availability: Now
Contact: aprilia.com

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

Miller and Bagnaia: Albacete to Jerez, 10 years on

“It was my first podium, also Pecco’s first podium, in the Spanish Championship. The problem was I was about the same height as I am now, and honestly Pecco was up to about here on me (points to hip), tiny little guy and if I look back on this moment and think, you know. I always thought this young kid, how old were you? 13, 14? Eh, if you think back, to then, and think that we would be teammates in the factory Ducati Team and be 1-2 in Jerez in 2021… you don’t believe it. You say you don’t believe it, but dreams do come true. Yeah, 10 years… that’s pretty impressive. That’s cool, that’s f*****g cool.”

Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here

Quartararo undergoes successful arm pump surgery

Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP’s Fabio Quartararo has undergone successful arm pump surgery to rectify the problem that cost him victory in Sunday’s Spanish Grand Prix. With 13 laps completed in Jerez, the Frenchman hit issues with his right arm and he proceeded to fall through the field from first to thirteenth, relinquishing his lead of the MotoGP™ World Championship in the process.

Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here

“We’re facing some issues” – Puig opens up on HRC drama

“The negative point is that we, as Honda HRC, understand that we are facing some issues with the bike” began the Repsol Honda boss. “But we have been able to already recognize them. We are trying our best, we are bringing new parts soon and we are willing, and already working very hard, to give our best to the riders for the next races.”

Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here

Quartararo misses Jerez Test, Marc Marquez completes 7 laps

After a busy weekend of Red Bull Spanish Grand Prix action at the Circuito de Jerez-Angel Nieto, the MotoGP™ teams and riders stayed for a day of crucial testing on Monday in Andalucia. It was a test that was topped by Maverick Viñales (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) as the Spaniard completed a whopping 101 laps, but there were two noticeable absentees for either all, or most, of the day.

Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here

A silent sunrise in Andalucia

The saddest aspect for those absent fans surely must be the performance being put on by the riders in the opening four rounds in all three classes. It is a remarkable show and both the riders, and the fans deserve each other. Hopefully, the long wait is almost over, and they will return before the end of the season. In the meantime, the riders just keep producing the goods. Last year I attended a football play off final at the legendary Wembley Stadium in London. A crowd of around 250 permitted in a stadium that seats 90,000 made for one of the most surreal sporting events I have ever visited. Hopefully, the end of such experiences is just a few laps away.

Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here