The Kalahari Rally 2021 is nearing its end, and the folks from WESTx1000 are there to capture all the action and drama as things draw to a close.
Begin Press Release:
Stage 5: A Penultimate Showdown
This Wild (North) West Brawl Left Its Mark
The penultimate stage of the Kalahari Rally was a true hero’s quest. A test of mind, body and heart. Navigation has not been easy the entire competition, and today was no exception. Buzzing the border of Botswana were many fast straight (ish) pathways – swiftly enough to become a little too comfortable. Before they knew it, a slight right turned pilots away from the fence line and thrust them into a little bowl of spaghetti. Adding spice to this hearty meal, SS5 consisted of rolling hills, some lobbed off at the top, knee-deep golden grass, a few sparse trees and hard-packed dirt with a generous dusting of sand. A few hidden baby-head rocks and camouflaged mounds of sand added a healthy serving of ass puckering surprises, putting (at least) bikes and low-hung buggies through a more rigorous physical test. Yet, the rough terrain made these Kalahari gladiators stronger, more resilient for the remaining journey. Over 800 Kilometers – 210km special, 646km liaison – of track from the Rietfontein bivouac near Namibia to the final bivy in Mafikeng set the stage for a demanding trial. Anything can happen in such a distance, with so many parts unknown threatening to end a team’s race, whether it’s in a service truck or on a stretcher, fate plays no favorites.
Tragically, rider #23, Victor Van Graan found out the hard way, suffering quite a big off-bike incident, which resulted in him being moved by medivac to a private hospital. Fortunately, he’s stable and, better yet, in good hands, but this is just the ticket sending him home a day too soon. Van Graan’s comrade in Motos, Jurie Botha #11, was also unable to finish out the special, dropping him further down the ladder. But he’s sure he’ll have his Yamaha WR450 back in working order by the finale, although he’ll carry with him a pretty significant penalty. ‘Tis rally. KTM South Africa’s star, Charan Moore #73, has been a steady figure on the podium, sharing it with few others – John Kelly #2 being one of the other regulars. Moore put in a valiant effort indeed – always exciting to watch him slide into view or pop up the front end – but talent alone wasn’t sufficient to win him the stage today. In fact, mechanical troubles set him (way) back to the 15th position after conceding to a penalty for not finishing. With the second seat left unoccupied (and so, so tempting) Hentie Hannekom [#16] positioned himself in the chair while it was still warm. Gary Van Den Berg [#874], Gary Pretorius [#8] and Ruan Burger [#77] battled a bit on the course, which deposited them at the front of the group, Van Den Berg nabbing Third. To balance out the probabilities, the organizers started the riders in opposite ranking order. Giving the boys at the back a fighting chance to stay in contention. But inevitably, the elite of the group caught up and took their place in the front.
“I had a good start today, some decent pace and was navigating well, but after the fuel stop at 123km into the special stage, my bike lost all power. Checked and cleaned everything I could, but I suspect a blocked injector. Unfortunately, I had to call in the recovery team… I’ll take a time penalty and finish strong tomorrow – if we get the bike fixed tonight. It’s not about how hard you get knocked down, but how many times you get back up!” – Jurie Botha #11, DROOMERS YAMAHA, 450
Lady Luck, however, showed favor for UTV #202, operated by Theo Erasmus and guided by Johan Bekker, who found themselves in control of the board once more by stage finish. However, this ultimately didn’t secure the overall standings. And possibly it’s an outcome that’s already settled. Except, this is a chivalric tale, which means the protagonists are here with the intention of finding their limits. Of earning success with a steady hand and an iron chest. In rally raid, no one is given their victories merely because it seems the most plausible conclusion. A thinner lineup of contenders notwithstanding, the Autos put on their best show in SS5. No shock of course – these pros probably would have performed with as much feeling and drive for an audience of one as a hundred thousand. If the objective is to test, train and maybe take home some trophies, then there’s no time for touching the brakes. Eben Basson, accompanied by Gerhard Schutte, in the Red-Lined Motorsports #304 vehicle seemed Master & Commander of Stage Five, driving and navigating with surgeon-like precision, even under pressure from Terence Marsh and Riaan Greyling in #308. Because you know they gave them hell. Teammates Philip Botha and Roelof Janse Van Vuren likewise put in their best effort, but theirs was an on-course production eclipsed in SS5 by the former two T1’s.
The King of Kalahari hasn’t been crowned just yet. John Kelly on his KTM, Geoff Minnitt and Siegfried Rousseau in their Can Am Maverick X3 and Terence Marsh and Riann Greyling in their VK56 might be dominating the General Standings now, the gap they’ve secured isn’t impregnable. So, it would be unwise for anyone to become comfortable, let alone complacent, before tomorrow’s pièce de résistance. SS6 will surely be that last, giant mountain to summit before taking home their prize. But by tomorrow evening, David will surely slay Goliath, and each and every athlete on the rugby field will inevitably complete this rallying odyssey, to some degree. And, if they’ve overcome each challenge, broken down all mental barriers, passed all the physical tests… Then, no matter where they land in the pecking order, and no matter whichever trophy they are awarded, all will go home on Saturday champions of their own epoch.
KEY NOTES
Ø SS5 210km Special > 646km Liaison | Goerapan > Van Zylsrus| 60% Dunes; 40% Hard-Pack
Ø A fun, scenic stage near the Kgalagadi Park opened against the Botswana border. It offered a mix of round crested dunes, with long straights (some with a bit of sand) giving way to hard-packed rocky canyons. The navigation is rated Medium, with some tricky sections and over 600 kilometers of liaison.
Ø Van Zylsrus is a settlement in John Taolo Gaetsewe District Municipality in the Northern Cape province of South Africa. It is also the nearest settlement to The Kalahari Meerkat Project, the filming of nature TV shows such as Meerkat Manor. The settlement was founded by 6 Trekboer families in 1832, led by the former Heemrad of Calvinia, Petrus van Zyl. Between 1971 and 2001 it was the location of a Ballistic Missile Battery of the SADF, collocated with an Infantry Company plus a Heavy Mortar Platoon, an Armored Squadron less one troop, and an advanced Radar and Signals Squadron of the SAAF. The settlement also had its own Commando platoon of 21 Riflemen reinforced by the local SAP helicopter flight and Askari detachment. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Van_Zylsrus]
Ø Kalahari Trails, better known as the Meerkat sanctuary (and one of the locations for the show Meerkat Manor), is home to one of the Kalahari’s best-known animals, suricates. Kalahari Trails Meerkat Sanctuary is 3500ha in size, nestled right in the heart of the red Kalahari dune fields, just 35km before the entrance to Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park (KTP). This unique piece of heaven offers visitor experiences where you can get closer to nature and interact with the Meerkats like no other place in the Kalahari. This unique experience provides visitors with a chance to walk the dunes and learn more about all the critters great and small that would be otherwise unseen, if you were traveling in a car or game drive vehicle. The dunes create miles of limitless beauty where the sky meets the sand and beyond.
The series told the story of the Whiskers, one of more than a dozen families of meerkats in the Kalahari Desert being studied as part of the Kalahari Meerkat Project, a long-term field study into the ecological causes and evolutionary consequences of the cooperative nature of meerkats. [https://www.kalahari-trails.co.za/en/ &https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meerkat_Manor]
TOP TEN RESULTS
MOTORCYCLE 450/OPEN/IRON MAN
1. #2 John Kelly (BWA), PRIVATEER, 450
2. #16 Hentie Hannekom (ZAF), PRIVATEER, OPEN
3. #874 Gert Van Den Berg (ZAF), KUDUMANE BRAKES RACING, OPEN
4. #8 Gary Pretorius (ZAF), BROTHER LEADERTREAD, 450
5. #19 Dreyer Van Niekerk (ZAF), MARSHMALLOW POP, 450
6. #77 Ruan Burger (ZAF), PENTA MOTOR GROUP, OPEN
7. #18 Chris Opperman (ZAF), PRIVATEER, 450
8. #35 Mark Johnston (ZAF), JOHNSTON MOTO, IRON MAN
9. #26 Vaughn Roux (ZAF), ROBERTS RACING RALLYE, IRON MAN
10. #24 Leonard Cremer (ZAF), DROOMERS YAMAHA, OPEN
SXS
1. #202 Theo Erasmus (ZAF); Johan Bekker (ZAF), MARIENDAL RACING
Daniel Holgado (Aspar Junior Team) arrives 42 points clear, with one hand stretching towards that trophy. If he leaves Misano with more than 50 points in hand he’ll take the crown, but with another two races after this round, will he play it safe or push for glory? It’s new turf for the FIM Moto3 JWCh too, putting an extra challenge into the mix for those in contention at the top.
Morbidelli confirmed as Yamaha Factory rider for two more years
Franco Morbidelli has been officially confirmed as a Yamaha Factory Racing MotoGP Team rider for not only the remaining races in 2021, but for also the entire 2022 and 2023 seasons.
The Italian will make his highly anticipated return from injury debuting with the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team this weekend at the Gran Premio di San Marino e della Riviera di Rimini.
The successful partnership with Yamaha led to a second place overall for the Italian in 2020, having secured five podiums including three victories that season.
Franco Morbidelli
“I’m very pleased and happy about facing this weekend and this highly anticipated new chapter with the Factory Yamaha team. I’ve been trying to recover as much as possible for the final stage of this championship. I wanted to make my comeback at a track I know well and have great memories of, like Misano. I’m looking forward to jumping on the bike and starting my journey with the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team. Of course, I need and I want to thank all the people who made this happen, starting with Ito-san, Lin, Maio, Sumi-san, the VR46 Riders Academy, and all other people who made this collaboration possible.”
The Petronas Yamaha Sepang Racing Team rider‘s 2021 season was hampered by injury. He decided to have surgery on the meniscus and anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee on 25 June, causing him to miss the Dutch, Styrian, Austrian, British, and Aragon GP. After following a rehabilitation programme, Morbidelli is now ready to return to action.
This weekend, the 26-year-old will be reunited with former Petronas Yamaha SRT teammate Fabio Quartararo, this time as part of the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team. He aims to use the remainder of the 2021 season to adapt to the new team surroundings and the 2021 Factory-spec YZR-M1, and gradually work up to 100% fitness level.
With two further years as a Factory rider on the horizon after the 2021 season, Morbidelli can count on Yamaha‘s full support and the opportunity to fight at the front for big milestones on many occasions.
Lin Jarvis – Yamaha Motor Racing Managing Director
“First of all, we want to thank Petronas Yamaha SRT for allowing Franky to make his dream come true and letting him step up to the Factory team ahead of schedule. Originally, we had planned for Franky to move up from 2022 on, but following a sudden rider line-up change mid-season, we had the chance to let him upgrade early. Secondly, I want to give a warm welcome to Franky. He is an exceptional talent. This was even further highlighted last year when he secured second place in the championship and achieved five podiums and three wins on the satellite Yamaha. It shows the type of rider that he is: committed to extracting the best from the YZR-M1 under all circumstances. Naturally, we‘re thrilled that Franky will be back in the paddock and that he is well enough to start racing again. He will have to find his form gradually, in line with his physical improvements, as he is still recovering. We will be using the remainder of 2021 to get him settled in the team and comfortable on the bike. We have already locked down our plans for 2022 and 2023, with Franky receiving full Factory backing from Yamaha Motor Company. We feel certain that a skilled, calm, and experienced rider like Franky will strengthen the Yamaha Factory Racing MotoGP Team and will enjoy great success in the future.”
Dovi and Yamaha rekindle relationship with long term plan
With Franco Morbidelli debuting in the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team for this week‘s Gran Premio di San Marino e della Riviera di Rimini, Yamaha has announced that MotoGP star Andrea Dovizioso will be joining Petronas Yamaha Sepang Racing Team.
Thus Dovi effectively moves into the Petronas SRT seat vacated by Morbidelli subsequent to his promotion to the Tier 1 Factory Yamaha Team. The Italian will race for Yamaha‘s satellite team for the remainder of 2021 as well as the entire 2022 MotoGP season.
Lin Jarvis – Yamaha Motor Racing Managing Director
“We are delighted that a MotoGP star and talent like Andrea is joining the Yamaha line-up. We warmly welcome him to the Yamaha MotoGP group as a very important member of our MotoGP programme. We have found ourselves in unprecedented circumstances this year that resulted in totally unexpected rider issues for both Yamaha teams. We experienced some unforeseen and unfortunate events, but we have been able to transform the problems into new opportunities. Andrea has been away from MotoGP for a short sabbatical, but we are certain that a rider of his calibre will soon find his speed again. We are really looking forward to working with him as a member of Yamaha‘s satellite team, and we will be supporting him in every way we can.”
Dovizioso is a three-time MotoGP Vice Champion and has many premier-class and lower-class achievements and victories to his name. He is known as a late-braker and one of the cleanest competitors in battle.
Dovizioso is also no stranger to the YZR-M1, making him a perfect addition to the Yamaha rider line-up. He completed a successful season with a Yamaha satellite team in 2012, resulting in six third places and a fourth place in the final standings.
The 35-year-old will start the second leg of his racing career with Yamaha on Morbidelli‘s former bikes. During the 2022 season he will be riding a factory-spec YZR-M1 and receive full support from Yamaha.
Andrea Dovizioso
“Racing with Yamaha has always been my dream, and that’s why when the opportunity arrived I did not think twice, although I know it’s going to be a tough challenge for me. I’ve got many things ahead of me to learn: a new bike, a new team, a new working system. It‘s a big challenge that starts at Misano, my home GP. This makes it even more exciting. I can’t wait to be aboard my M1!”
“Of course, this is possible because Franky is moving to the factory team alongside his old team-mate Fabio, and we are absolutely delighted and excited for him. He has performed remarkably for us, especially last year as vice-Champion, and this progression is exactly the objective for an independent team – to develop riders for the factory team and to help them perform to the best of their ability. For the first time the line-up of the Yamaha factory team consists of two riders who have graduated from our team, and we are exceptionally proud of that. For me this is a clear sign of the stronger, deeper collaboration between us and Yamaha. We are always ready to support the factory, and I think that with this solution and flexibility we all see a clear benefit, so we’re very pleased, and of course thank Franky sincerely for all his hard work and wish him all the very best.”
“I’m looking forward to jumping on the bike and starting my journey with the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team. Of course, I need and I want to thank all the people who made this happen, starting with Ito-san, Lin, Maio, Sumi-san, the VR46 Riders Academy, and all other people who made this collaboration possible.”
1961-2021 60 years of World Grand Prix racing for Yamaha
Racing has been an integral part of Yamaha’s DNA from the day that the factory was incorporated on 1 July 1955. At the time, the company proved its products on the racetrack just days after Yamaha Motor Company was founded, when the YA-1 won the Mount Fuji Ascent Race at its very first attempt on 10 July. To celebrate that milestone Yamaha have announced a new R-Series World GP 60th Anniversary livery for the 2022 R1, R7, R3 and R125 models.
Just like Yamaha’s famous World Championship winning machinery, the World GP 60th Anniversary R1, R7, R3 and R125 feature pure white bodywork with a strong horizontal red stripe and white vertical lines creating the red speed block. This authentic race bike colour scheme features an all-red front fender and gold-coloured wheels just like winning Yamaha’s factory bikes, and this timeless look is completed with a yellow front number plate, an anniversary emblem and a red stripe running along the top of the fuel tank and the tail.
World GP 60th Anniversary model highlights
White bodywork with red speed block graphics
Special 60th Anniversary emblem
Red stripe along top of tank and tail
Red front fender
Yellow front number plate
Gold wheels
2022 Yamaha YZF-R1 World GP 60th Anniversary highlights
998cc, 200PS, crossplane, 4-cylinder engine
Highly advanced electronic control systems
6-axis IMU with Gyro/G sensors for 3D motion data
Power Delivery Modes (PWR)
Banking sensitive Traction Control (TCS) / Slide Control (SCS)
Quick Shift System (QSS)
Two-mode brake control (BC) cornering ABS
Three-mode Engine Brake Management (EBM) system
Ride-by-wire APSG throttle
Short wheelbase aluminium Deltabox frame
Upward truss type swingarm/magnesium rear frame
Magnesium wheels and 17-litre aluminium fuel tank
Thin Film Transistor (TFT) LCD instruments
M1-style bodywork
2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 World GP 60th Anniversary highlights
Compact and lightweight, high-tensile tubular steel chassis
Radical M1 MotoGP inspired styling
R1 style dual LED headlamps and position lamps
Sculpted fuel tank and low handlebars for excellent sports ergonomics
37 mm inverted front forks and Monocross rear shock
Multi-function LCD instruments with easy-to-read displays
Refined performance with outstanding reliability and excellent economy
Balanced 50/50 weight distribution for agile handling
R-series DNA
2022 Yamaha YZF-R1M
Equipped with Öhlins Electronic Racing Suspension (ERS) and featuring an impressive specification that includes the most advanced electronic control technology as well as lightweight carbon bodywork, the R1M is Yamaha’s definitive track bike. For 2022 this iconic high performance supersport motorcycle will be available in a new Icon Performance colour.
2022 Yamaha YZF-R1
With super-aggressive, M1-inspired styling combined with a lightweight chassis, high tech electronics and a 998cc EU5 crossplane engine, the R1 is always ready to get the adrenaline flowing. Available in a new duo-tone Icon Blue with dark matte blue colour option.
2022 Yamaha YZF-R3
Featuring an aggressively styled MotoGP-inspired fairing, dual LED headlights and 37 mm KYB inverted front forks, the R3 is Yamaha’s ultimate supersport lightweight.
This high-revving 321cc A2-licence motorcycle is the ideal step up for those riders graduating from the R125, and is the perfect preparation for the next move on up to the R7.
For 2022 the R3 engine is fully EU5 compliant, and the shape of the fairing’s lower cowl has been adapted to accommodate the new catalyser. The R3 will be available in a new Icon Blue colour, which features a duo-tone finish consisting of a mixture of Icon Blue and dark matte blue for an even more sporty appearance, that reinforces the R-Series family look. The second colour for the R3 is Yamaha Black, giving the bike a stylish and dynamic look.
World GP 60th Anniversary Clothing
To complement the new R-Series World GP 60th Anniversary editions Yamaha is launching a limited capsule collection, the new World GP 60th Anniversary clothing collection. Inspired by the iconic “speedblock” livery that was made famous by Yamaha’s winning race teams in the 1970s, this dedicated collection features the historic white and red design and consists of a special World GP 60th Anniversary t-shirt, hoodie, softshell and cap.
As the dust settles following a truly spectacular duel at MotorLand, the paddock is already setting up to take on the stunning Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli. For the winner of that Aragon showdown, Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team), there could scarcely be a better place to head next on the heels of his first MotoGP win. Home turf, and somewhere he’s been incredibly quick before.
It wasn’t just pace that Bagnaia had at MotorLand, however. What made his maiden win such a stunner was the sheer pressure from Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) lap after lap, the Italian brushing off Marquez’ attempts at the lead like they weren’t coming from one of the most decorated riders in history – or one of the most successful at anti-clockwise Aragon. It was no mean feat, and Marquez himself pointed out something in Bagnaia’s arsenal that could be crucial come Misano too: corner speed.
Bagnaia has used it before to great effect at the track, even before he truly mastered the art this year, taking his first MotoGP podium in the first visit in 2020 and leading in the second until crashing out. But he also set the fastest race lap as he left the rest behind, and missed out on pole for track limits. That performance, compounded by MotorLand, will likely play on everyone’s mind.
Francesco Bagnaia
“It’s only been a few days since last Sunday’s GP, but I’m already ready for another race weekend. The victory on Sunday at Aragón was incredible and gave me the right energy to face our second home race at Misano. My team and I are doing an outstanding job, and I feel very comfortable riding my Desmosedici GP, so I’m optimistic for this weekend. This is a track that I like a lot and where I often train with my Panigale V4 S. Also, last year, I got my first podium in MotoGP here! I’m very determined and ready to fight for the victory again in front of all our fans“.
His fellow Ducati runners like stablemate Jack Miller (Ducati Lenovo Team), who had an issue that took him wide at Aragon and then couldn’t make up ground from fifth, will be looking for a lot more on home turf for the Borgo Panigale factory too.
Jack Miller
“I’m very excited to be back racing at Misano! It’s our second home race, and the atmosphere is always incredible with our fans on the Ducati Grandstand. Last Sunday’s GP at Aragon didn’t go as we had hoped, but in the last few races, my feeling with the Desmosedici GP has been really positive, and that makes me very confident! I’m determined to finish our home Grand Prix with a good result!”
Jorge Martin (Pramac Racing) and team-mate Johann Zarco had a more muted weekend at Aragon than their Factory counterparts – the rookie fading a little after a good start and the Frenchman suffering some arm pump issues – and they’ll want to bounce back.
Reigning Moto2 Champion Enea Bastianini (Avintia Esponsorama) could be one to watch too: a stunning Aragon GP saw him take his best yet of sixth, and Misano is home, familiar and successful turf for the Italian, as well as where he took his first ever win in Moto3.
Ducati test rider Michele Pirro returns in a wildcard as well, often a bother for those looking to make it straight through to Q2, and Luca Marini (Sky VR46 Avintia) will want more on home turf – also a winner at the track in Moto2.
Michele Pirro
“I’m thrilled to be back racing in MotoGP with the Ducati Lenovo Team! Over the past few weeks, we’ve had several days of testing with the Desmosedici GP at this track, and the sensations have been positive. I’ll live this race weekend without pressure, but I’m determined to help Pecco, Jack, and the team get the best possible results. The Grand Prix of San Marino and the Riviera di Rimini will be an exciting event for us: it’s our second home race, we’re close to Bologna, and there will be many fans and supporters in the stands to cheer for us, so I’m really looking forward to getting on track here in Misano“.
The most likely barrier to Bagnaia and Ducati’s dreams of Riviera di Rimini success though, despite Aragon, still likely comes from Yamaha. Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) struggled for grip on Sunday at MotorLand and came home in eighth, giving up some points to both his key title rivals, but Misano is Yamaha territory. The Iwata marque is the most successful at the venue with eight wins, and Quartararo was already fast there as a rookie. Last season didn’t quite go to plan, but the Frenchman has ramped it up so far in 2021. Will it be a showdown between the top two in the Championship this time around?
There are also some more headlines aside from El Diablo. Valentino Rossi (Petronas Yamaha SRT) takes on Misano for the penultimate time. Can the familiar ground help him move forward after a tough MotorLand? And Yamaha boss Lin Jarvis spoke of a “verbal” agreement regarding Quartararo and Rossi’s team-mates too: Franco Morbidelli is slated to return and move to Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP, and Andrea Dovizioso is expected to join the Petronas Yamaha SRT ranks alongside Rossi. Both home heroes, Morbidelli coming back from injury but a winner at the track last season… and Dovizioso returning to Yamaha. The two should be a treat to watch if their comebacks are confirmed.
Meanwhile, for Suzuki, Aragon was more a mixed bag. But reigning Champion Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar) locked out the podium and from a solid qualifying, and he’s the only rider last year at Misano who was on the rostrum in both races. The track should suit and he’s got and on form, so can he take that next step to trouble the top step?
Joan Mir
“Last year at the Misano double header I kept my title campaign on track with a third place and a second place finish, so obviously I have happy memories from here. It’s a tricky track, with lots of tight corners and it usually produces exciting racing with lots of quick riders. Last weekend in Aragón I got on the podium, and even though I felt I had more potential than third, I’m glad that I was able to get decent points and it felt good to celebrate with my team. We’ll be pushing again this weekend in Misano.”
Alex Rins, meanwhile, as the winner of one of last year’s races in Aragon equalled his worst ever MotoGP qualifying in P20 and then came home 12th at Aragon. After a podium at Silverstone, was it a blip and can he prove so at Misano?
Alex Rins
“I was pretty disappointed last weekend. On one hand I was glad to recover quite a few places compared with my grid, but it was a shame not to achieve more. Anyway, my motivation is still high and I’m ready to attack Misano with my GSX-RR. This circuit is always a fun one to ride and it can suit our bike quite well, so let’s see what’s possible!”
Aprilia continued showing form at Aragon, and will expect to carry that on at Misano. Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing Team Gresini) took fourth and was top Independent Team rider, which may not be another history-making milestone like Silverstone, but it’s still their second best result in the MotoGP era. So the momentum rolls on, and Misano is familiar turf as well as home for the Noale factory. Maverick Viñales, new to the ranks, also has a few more laps round the venue on his new RS-GP, as it’s where he got the first taste. A winner last year at the track too, can he take a step forward?
Aleix Espargaro
“It’s inevitable that the Misano round feels like a home race for me. Both because of my tight bond with Italy and because of how important it is for Aprilia. We’ll be on the track to pick up where we left off – competitive in any conditions. We are in a positive moment. The RS-GP is growing consistently and we need to stay focused from here until the end of the season.”
Maverick Viñales
“Even though the situation is different since I’ve already tested here, we’ll approach Misano the same way we did Aragón. The fundamental thing for us is to rack up miles and experience. The process of adapting to the Aprilia is going well, but there are obviously still many aspects where we can and must improve. Precisely for this reason, I am not setting any goals. I’ll be satisfied if I’ve made a step forward in my feeling with the RS-GP by the end of the weekend.”
It will also be an interesting watch at Honda to see how Marc Marquez fares at a venue that’s less emblematic for the Spaniard. MotorLand was a stunner, can he get in the podium fight again at Misano?
Marc Marquez
“After a great race and a great battle like in Aragon, you arrive at the next race with a bit of extra motivation. Let’s see what this weekend will bring, in the past we have had some very good races here but it’s a demanding circuit. Also after the race we have two days of testing which will be very important for us and for HRC as we keep working to improve. It’s going to be a busy week on my Honda.”
For Pol Espargaro, this latest GP weekend offers an opportunity to continue to deepen his understanding of the Honda RC213V. A difficult Sunday in Aragon’s hotter race-day conditions reconfirmed that Espargaro still has work to do when temperatures rise and Misano forecast suggest the #44 will have an opportunity to improve his feeling in these conditions. In 2020, Espargaro ended on the podium in Misano, a circuit at which he has only once finished outside the top ten since joining the premier class in 2014.
Pol Espargaro
“The forecast in Misano is looking hot so we know that we will have to work to improve out feeling to be closer to our Silverstone performance than our performance in Aragon. We have been making improvements in this area, but we need to keep on working to show our potential and the potential of the bike. I am also looking forward to the test, two days of just riding will be a big help because right now one of our biggest problems is the lack of testing we have had this year. Let’s make the most of it.”
Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu) will want more too, having completed the top ten, and Alex Marquez (LCR Honda Castrol) crashed early so will want to bounce back. Stefan Bradl will also be on track in a wildcard for HRC.
And what about KTM? The Austrian factory took a podium last year at Misano, and Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) is building some good momentum to get in that mid-top ten again, incredible Red Bull Ring win aside. Iker Lecuona (Tech 3 KTM Factory Racing) put on quite a show at MotorLand once again too, storming through the ranks early on. What can he do? And can his team-mate Danilo Petrucci and Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Miguel Oliveira bother some bigger points hauls?
Hervé Poncharal – Tech3 KTM Team Manager
“Just a couple of days in between the Aragón Grand Prix and the Misano race. There is no time to think, we just travel from the center of Spain to the Adriatic coast. Clearly, Aragón was a positive week and we head to Misano, where Miguel and Iker have been very fast last year and there is no reason for us not to be competitive there. Iker is on a very good run at the moment. He is positive, he is pushing and improving every weekend. I’m sure he’s eager to do even better than what he did last week in Aragón. It’s going to be a home race for Danilo, which will be very important. I believe he likes the track, so we just can’t wait to start FP1 on Friday to see where we stand. Hopefully we’ll have another exciting and strong weekend there.”
Bagnaia on a roll. Yamaha with an incredible record. Quartararo with proven pace and the likes of Mir, Miller and more waiting in the wings… Misano promises a showstopper, so tune in at 14:00 (GMT +2) when the lights go out for the Gran Premio OCTO di San Marino e della Riv.
MotoGP Championship Standings
Pos
Rider
Bike
Nation
Points
1
Fabio QUARTARARO
Yamaha
FRA
214
2
Francesco BAGNAIA
Ducati
ITA
161
3
Joan MIR
Suzuki
SPA
157
4
Johann ZARCO
Ducati
FRA
137
5
Jack MILLER
Ducati
AUS
129
6
Brad BINDER
KTM
RSA
117
7
Aleix ESPARGARO
Aprilia
SPA
96
8
Maverick VIÑALES
Aprilia
SPA
95
9
Miguel OLIVEIRA
KTM
POR
87
10
Marc MARQUEZ
Honda
SPA
79
11
Jorge MARTIN
Ducati
SPA
71
12
Alex RINS
Suzuki
SPA
68
13
Takaaki NAKAGAMI
Honda
JPN
64
14
Pol ESPARGARO
Honda
SPA
55
15
Alex MARQUEZ
Honda
SPA
49
16
Enea BASTIANINI
Ducati
ITA
45
17
Franco MORBIDELLI
Yamaha
ITA
40
18
Iker LECUONA
KTM
SPA
38
19
Danilo PETRUCCI
KTM
ITA
37
20
Luca MARINI
Ducati
ITA
28
21
Valentino ROSSI
Yamaha
ITA
28
22
Stefan BRADL
Honda
GER
11
23
Dani PEDROSA
KTM
SPA
6
24
Lorenzo SAVADORI
Aprilia
ITA
4
25
Michele PIRRO
Ducati
ITA
3
26
Tito RABAT
Ducati
SPA
1
Moto2
When news broke that Raul Fernandez (Red Bull KTM Ajo) had been forced to have surgery on his hand after a cycling mishap, following a crash out at Silverstone no less, it seemed there had been two massive swings in favour of team-mate and Championship leader Remy Gardner (Red Bull KTM Ajo) in less than a week. But come race day at MotorLand, the only swings landing on his rivals came from the number 25’s incredible laptimes as he dominated despite the pain barrier, taking back five of those points lost at Silverstone as Gardner came home second. And instead, it’s Sam Lowes (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) and Marco Bezzecchi (Sky Racing Team VR46) who arrive at Misano on the back foot after both crashed out. So what will the Adriatic bring?
Raul Fernandez will likely be strong again, as he has been everywhere, and despite the pain in his hand. He’ll be more fired up than ever to keep cutting that gap, with the Spaniard having so far found the perfect answer when he’s needed to. He could also wrap up Rookie of the Year, although he’s had one hand on that for a while despite an impressive season of consistency from Ai Ogura (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia).
However, Gardner hasn’t put a foot wrong this season and he’s still 39-points clear despite Aragon not being a circuit he loves, and he can now afford to take two paths: gloves off or very much on. The first because everything else is signed, sealed or delivered: the team are already Champions and his 2022 deal is inked. Nothing “except” the Riders’ title hangs in the balance, and 39-points is a big margin to play with.
Recklessness, or maybe something more akin to pushing the limits, hasn’t been part of Gardner’s vocabulary in 2021 so far though and it seems unlikely he’d start now, especially when he’s still won four races as part of his campaign. And the gloves remaining very much on option is that 39 points easily allows him to follow his teammate home in every remaining race this season and still wrap up the crown.
Despite the return of the Red Bull KTM Ajo domination at Aragon though, there are some interesting records at Misano for those looking to threaten the duo, especially for Bezzecchi. Riding on home turf is always something special and the Italian had two good races there last season, just off the podium but less than a second off the win in the first and duelling for victory throughout the race with then-teammate Luca Marini in the second. Now really needing to dig deep to get back on terms with Red Bull KTM Ajo, can the Italian come out swinging?
Lowes, too, is looking for redemption as the Brit crashed out at MotorLand – a venue where he’s had some serious success. He’s been there or thereabouts in Misano in recent seasons, although the results sheets from the first visit to the venue last year need an asterisk: he came eighth, 16 seconds off the win. But he also did so from pitlane, forfeiting the pole position he’d taken after a penalty from the Styrian GP. So how will his MotorLand crash affect his approach? Earlier in the season we saw the number 22 go for solid points when he needed to build back up but will the same be true this time around?
Lowes’ teammate, Augusto Fernandez, said that was his mission after a tougher start to the year too. And he’s seriously fulfilled it, now fifth overall in the Championship as his momentum keeps building. Since Assen, he’s outscored everyone except the top two and had more podiums than any other rider. Anyone remember Misano 2019? He and Fabio Di Giannantonio (Federal Oil Gresini Moto2) staged a spectacular showdown, so the number 37 has form at the venue and momentum in the season. Can he go better than third?
‘Diggia’, meanwhile, evidently has shown speed at the track but this season has seen the Italian’s early charge take a dip in the middle. The last two races have seen him back in the top six though, so can he get back in the fight for the podium? And what can the likes of Aron Canet (Inde Aspar Team) and Jorge Navarro (+Ego Speed Up) do on the Boscoscuro? Ogura, too, remains on a solid roll. The Japanese rider is less than a race win’s worth of points off the top five overall is on a good run of top tens, including that first podium.
Moto2 Championship Standings
Pos
Rider
Bike
Nation
Points
1
Remy GARDNER
Kalex
AUS
251
2
Raul FERNANDEZ
Kalex
SPA
212
3
Marco BEZZECCHI
Kalex
ITA
179
4
Sam LOWES
Kalex
GBR
127
5
Augusto FERNANDEZ
Kalex
SPA
108
6
Aron CANET
Boscoscuro
SPA
103
7
Fabio DI GIANNANTONIO
Kalex
ITA
101
8
Ai OGURA
Kalex
JPN
95
9
Marcel SCHROTTER
Kalex
GER
80
10
Jorge NAVARRO
Boscoscuro
SPA
71
11
Xavi VIERGE
Kalex
SPA
67
12
Joe ROBERTS
Kalex
USA
59
13
Celestino VIETTI
Kalex
ITA
47
14
Tony ARBOLINO
Kalex
ITA
40
15
Bo BENDSNEYDER
Kalex
NED
40
16
Somkiat CHANTRA
Kalex
THA
35
17
Cameron BEAUBIER
Kalex
USA
28
18
Albert ARENAS
Boscoscuro
SPA
23
19
Jake DIXON
Kalex
GBR
21
20
Stefano MANZI
Kalex
ITA
20
21
Marcos RAMIREZ
Kalex
SPA
20
22
Thomas LUTHI
Kalex
SWI
16
23
Fermín ALDEGUER
Boscoscuro
SPA
13
24
Simone CORSI
MV Agusta
ITA
13
25
Hector GARZO
Kalex
SPA
12
26
Nicolò BULEGA
Kalex
ITA
12
27
Lorenzo DALLA PORTA
Kalex
ITA
10
28
Hafizh SYAHRIN
NTS
MAL
8
29
Alonso LOPEZ
Boscoscuro
SPA
4
30
Lorenzo BALDASSARRI
MV Agusta
ITA
3
31
Barry BALTUS
NTS
BEL
2
Moto3
Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Ajo) gave his rivals an open goal at Aragon with his first race day mistake of the year, but for one reason or another only one rider was able to capitalise: Dennis Foggia (Leopard Racing). The Italian took his third win of the season, moved back into third overall and is now 58-points off Acosta as five races remain on the table… so can he continue the charge on home turf at Misano?
Last season Foggia fought at the front in both races but hit bad luck in one, although the form was there. Based on his form so far in 2021, there’s no reason to count against the Italian managing to battle for the win again. And with the pressure a little more on for Acosta, and the rookie with less experience of the venue by far, it could be another key weekend as Foggia pushes to make gains. There’s also another home hero to consider, however: Romano Fenati (Sterilgarda Max Racing Team).
Fenati actually showed some good speed at MotorLand, and checking the results is far from the whole story. The veteran campaigner got forced out wide by a crash ahead of him and dropped well outside the points, but somehow managed to push back through and take a couple. After Silverstone and his absolute masterclass, it seems more muted in the points but less so in the pace. And Misano? The number 55 has the best record in the field. He’s taken two victories at the track, one of which came last year in the dry, and one of which was a poetry-in-motion wet weather masterpiece in 2017. Can he pull the pin again?
If Foggia is to continue making big gains, he’ll also want to defeat Sergio Garcia (Gaviota GASGAS Aspar Team) too, which is no mean feat when the Spaniard is on it. Unfortunately, he came off it at MotorLand and lost the chance to home in on Acosta, but he’s the other rider with multiple wins so far this year and still has a little cushion back to Foggia, such was the deficit before. Can he, and teammate Izan Guevara, bother the podium fight again?
Niccolo Antonelli (Avintia VR46 Academy) is another experienced veteran with podium form at Misano, and a home hero, and John McPhee (Petronas Sprinta Racing) and Tatsuki Suzuki (SIC58 Squadra Corse) have won there. What can they do? And Andrea Migno (Rivacold Snipers Team)? Red Bull KTM Tech3 riders Deniz Öncü and Ayumu Sasaki will also be aiming high after their podiums in Aragon. For Sasaki it’s rebuilding after a difficult few months, and a key relief to be back on the rostrum after injury struggles and more.
For Öncü, it was another race where he missed the win by hundredths, and that’s not enough after it having happened twice. Can Deniz defeat Dennis this time around? The Turk ran at the front for much of the race at MotorLand, which is fast becoming the weapon of choice for winning in the lightweight class…
Moto3 Championship Standings
Pos
Rider
Bike
Nation
Points
1
Pedro ACOSTA
KTM
SPA
201
2
Sergio GARCIA
GASGAS
SPA
155
3
Dennis FOGGIA
Honda
ITA
143
4
Romano FENATI
Husqvarna
ITA
134
5
Jaume MASIA
KTM
SPA
111
6
Darryn BINDER
Honda
RSA
104
7
Niccolò ANTONELLI
KTM
ITA
98
8
Ayumu SASAKI
KTM
JPN
87
9
Deniz ÖNCÜ
KTM
TUR
73
10
Izan GUEVARA
GASGAS
SPA
72
11
Andrea MIGNO
Honda
ITA
68
12
Kaito TOBA
KTM
JPN
62
13
Tatsuki SUZUKI
Honda
JPN
61
14
Jeremy ALCOBA
Honda
SPA
60
15
Gabriel RODRIGO
Honda
ARG
60
16
John MCPHEE
Honda
GBR
53
17
Filip SALAC
KTM
CZE
46
18
Ryusei YAMANAKA
KTM
JPN
42
19
Xavier ARTIGAS
Honda
SPA
30
20
Stefano NEPA
KTM
ITA
30
21
Jason DUPASQUIER
KTM
SWI
27
22
Riccardo ROSSI
KTM
ITA
24
23
Carlos TATAY
KTM
SPA
20
24
Adrian FERNANDEZ
Husqvarna
SPA
20
25
Yuki KUNII
Honda
JPN
15
26
Maximilian KOFLER
KTM
AUT
10
27
Elia BARTOLINI
KTM
ITA
7
28
Syarifuddin AZMAN
Honda
MAL
3
29
Andi Farid IZDIHAR
Honda
INA
3
30
Daniel HOLGADO
KTM
SPA
1
31
Lorenzo FELLON
Honda
FRA
0
32
Joel KELSO
KTM
AUS
0
33
Takuma MATSUYAMA
Honda
JPN
0
34
Alberto SURRA
Honda
ITA
0
35
David SALVADOR
Honda
SPA
0
MotoE
It’s almost time to crown the 2021 FIM Enel MotoE World Cup winner, with Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli playing host to the double-header season finale. 50 points are still in play, and it’s Italian Alessandro Zaccone (Octo Pramac MotoE) who remains ahead of the game on the way in.
The Italian arrives with a seven-point gap at the top, having put together a consistent season of scoring. A win in the first race, two further podiums and never finishing out the top six make Zaccone quite a rival over the course of the season, and on home turf he’ll be on familiar ground too. He’s the only rider who could wrap up the crown on Saturday, if he ends the race more than 25 points clear of the rest. Which he can but there’ll be some quick maths required if it’s 25 points exactly, with the number of wins for each rider coming into play.
So who wants to stop Zaccone taking the crown? The closest candidate is Eric Granado (ONE Energy Racing), who arrives seven points down after a very different route into contention. Two wins, a second place, a DNF and a salvage job for three points is his CV in 2021, and his pace has been impressive at every venue. A threat for the win every weekend, Granado’s speed has sometimes seen him escape too – which would be enough, if he does it twice, to lift the crown.
Jordi Torres (HP Pons 40) is next up, one point behind Granado as he seeks to win the Cup twice in a row. The Spaniard hasn’t taken a win yet in 2021 so he will be an interesting one – will he lay it all on the line or mitigate the risk and see how the cards fall around him? With such small margins and a wealth of contenders, that could be just as smart a plan. He’s been aggressive and impressive when required though, so if the gloves come off again that first win of the year could come at the perfect time.
Then there’s Dominique Aegerter (Dynavolt Intact GP). The Swiss rider is 11 points off and is the first of Zaccone’s closest rivals who can’t rely solely on himself to wrap it up – winning both races at Misano would be a gain of only 10 points if Zaccone were to take second in each. Aegerter has had three podiums but is another looking for that first victory of the season, and has some serious experience of the venue. As do most, but the Swiss rider won at the venue in MotoE last season and has shown serious speed there in Moto2.
In the points, Lukas Tulovic (Tech3 E-Racing) is next up and the German arrives from his first win. He’s mathematically in with a shout at the crown but it would be a tall order, 27 points down on Zaccone as it stands. Anything can happen though, and if he can replicate that holeshot to finish line sprint from last time out he could make life very difficult for those around him. He’ll likely be looking more at podiums or another win rather than the standings though, which could equally make for an interesting addition to the fight at the front.
The other rider who could play a serious role in the weekend is 2019 Cup winner Matteo Ferrari (Indonesian E-Racing Gresini MotoE). He’s a way back in the points but he’s unrivalled with his success at Misano in MotoE. Two out of three wins in 2020 and taking his first victories in the Cup there by doing the double in 2019, Ferrari has had a tougher season so far but shouldn’t be counted out for a starring role on the Riviera di Rimini. Four out of the last five wins at Misano is a pretty ridiculous record to enjoy heading into the finale, so with little to lose, can he get back on the box or fight it out for victory?
With two races to finish the season in style, the timetable is a little different at the Gran Premio Octo di San Marino e della Riviera di Rimini.
The 15th season of the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup wrapped up in Aragón in sensational style with David Alonso taking the title and a KTM 125 Duke to enjoy.
15-year-old Colombian David Alonso follows some great names as he chases his dreams after winning the 2021 Red Bull Rookies Cup at Aragon last weekend.
While he was enjoying Cup success this past weekend other ex Rookies were on the podium in all Grand Prix classes.
To date 30 Alumni have stood on the podium and 21 have won Grand Prix. Almost 50% of Rookies have graduated to the World Championship. 8 have won World Championships and last year’s Cup winner Pedro Acosta heads this season’s Moto3 title chase (main image – Acosta advises Alex Millan in the Mugello pit lane). Ex Rookie Raul Fernandez is 2nd in Moto2 and Joan Mir is 3rd in MotoGP having won the title last season.
The next generation are keen to follow and the provisional entry for the 2022 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup is announced.
25 riders from 18 nations are listed. Up to and including 2021, 211 riders representing 36 have competed in the Cup. The addition of Mexico for next season takes that to 37 nations and a total of 223 riders.
Harrison Voight flew the flag for Australia in 2021 and claimed 19-points over the course of an injury-interruped season. The 15-year-old will return for another tilt in 2022 and will be joined by 16-year-old countryman Jacob Roulstone.
Current riders invited to remain in the Cup for 2022
Production of the Panigale V2 Bayliss 1st Championship 20th Anniversary, the numbered series motorcycle that Ducati has built to pay homage to the legendary career of Troy Bayliss twenty years after his conquest of the 2001 Superbike World Championship, has begun at the Borgo Panigale factory. Starting from October the bike will start to filter out to Ducati dealerships in Europe but Australian stocks of the machine are not expected to arrive until January, 2022.
This unique model immediately entered the hearts of Troy fans around the world. In fact, since the first days after the presentation at the WSBK race in Assen, the bike has been ordered by many fans, already covering a large part of the production for the coming months.
Troy is loved by the Italians like one of their own, and he loves them right back in spades and the relationship between himself and Ducati is a true family affair.
52 victories, 94 podiums and three world titles (2001, 2006 and 2008) won with three different bikes: the twin-cylinder 996 R, the 999 R and the 1098 R. Troy Bayliss is the only motorcycle racer in history to win MotoGP and World Superbike races in the same season (2006).
This special edition was anticipated as we approach the 20th anniversary of the first of Troy’s three World Superbike Championship crowns and while most had expected it to be a new limited-edition V4, of course it is only right and correct that this bike is a traditional Ducati L-Twin. It is not a limited-edition and will be available to order through Ducati dealers for the foreseeable future.
It is not a 996, 998 or 1098 from history, but a special edition based on the 155 horsepower 955 cc model that is part of Ducati’s current line-up.
Of course it wears some sexy livery commemorating Troy’s win that recalls the clothes worn by that first title winning 996 R, but also comes with a few extras to boot and is 3 kg lighter.
It’s a single-seater with Ohlins TTX36 and NIX30 suspension components and adjustable Ohlins steering damper along with a sprinkle of extra carbon-fibre and titanium.
Troy’s autograph is reproduced on the fuel tank, while the billet aluminium triple clamp shows the name of the bike and the progressive numbering of this unique model.
The motorcycle is also equipped with self-cleaning brake and clutch pumps with smoke grey oil tanks.
The electronic package, dedicated to active safety and vehicle dynamics control, includes the “cornering” function applied to Bosch ABS, the electronic quick shift that also works when downshifting and traction, engine brake and wheelie controls (Ducati Quick Shift, Ducati Traction Control, Ducati Wheelie Control, Engine Brake Control).
All the controls are integrated into the three Riding Modes (Race, Sport and Street) that can be modified using the 4.3″ colour TFT dashboard with graphics and interface designed to make menu navigation and settings adjustment intuitive, as well as immediate identification of the selected Riding Mode.
The World Superbike universe will also pay tribute to Bayliss’s career this weekend at Assen. On Sunday 25 July after the SuperPole Race, the Panigale V2 Bayliss 1st Championship 20th Anniversary will complete a lap of honour on the track, ridden by Aruba.it Racing – Ducati Team rider Michael Ruben Rinaldi, who competes in WorldSBK with the same number as Bayliss.
The twentieth anniversary of Troy Bayliss winning his first title with Ducati is being celebrated in Borgo Panigale with a temporary exhibition in the Museo Ducati entitled “Troy Story: The Legend of a Champion” which exhibits the bikes with which Troy was able to write some memorable chapters in the history of motorcycle racing. The exhibition can be visited until 19 September 2021 (here more information on visits to the Museo Ducati).
The Panigale V2 Bayliss 1st Championship 20th Anniversary will be available in Australian Ducati dealerships from January 2022 at $27,489.
Specifications
ENGINE
TYPE
Superquadro: L-twin cylinder, 4 valve per cylinder, Desmodromic, liquid cooled
DISPLACEMENT
955 cc
BORE X STROKE
100 x 60,8 mm
COMPRESSION RATIO
12.5:1
POWER
114 kW (155 hp) @ 10.750 rpm
TORQUE
104 Nm (76,7 lb-ft) @ 9.000 rpm
FUEL INJECTION
Electronic fuel injection system. Twin injectors per cylinder. Full ride-by-wire elliptical throttle bodies
EXHAUST
2-1-2-1 system, with 2 catalytic converters and 2 lambda probes
TRANSMISSION
GEARBOX
6 speed with Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) up/down EVO 2
2 x 320 mm semi-floating discs, radially mounted Brembo Monobloc M4.32 4-piston callipers with Bosch Cornering ABS EVO. Self bleeding master cylinder
REAR BRAKE
245 mm disc, 2-piston calliper with Bosch Cornering ABS EVO
INSTRUMENTATION
Digital unit with 4,3″ TFT colour display
DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHTS
DRY WEIGHT
174,5 kg (385 lb)
KERB WEIGHT*
197 kg (434 lb)
SEAT HEIGHT
835 mm (32,9 in)
WHEELBASE
1.438 mm (56,6 in)
RAKE
24°
TRAIL
99 mm (3.90 in)
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
17 l – 4.5 gallon (US)
NUMBER OF SEATS
Dual seat
EQUIPMENT
SAFETY EQUIPMENT
Riding Modes, Power Modes, Bosch Cornering ABS EVO, Ducati Traction Control (DTC) EVO 2, Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) EVO, Engine Brake Control (EBC) EVO, Auto tyre calibration
STANDARD EQUIPMENT
Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) up/down EVO 2, Full LED lighting with Daytime Running Light (DRL), Öhlins steering damper, Auto-off indicators, Lithium-ion battery, Silencer outlet cover in carbon fibre and titanium
ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT
Passenger seat and footpegs kit
READY FOR
Ducati Data Analyser+ (DDA+) with GPS module, Ducati Multimedia System (DMS) and anti-theft
WARRANTY AND MAINTENANCE
WARRANTY
24 months unlimited mileage
MAINTENANCE SERVICE INTERVALS
12,000 km (7,500 mi) / 12 months
DESMOSERVICE
24,000 km (15,000 mi)
EMISSIONS AND CONSUMPTION (Only for countries where Euro 5 standard applies)