New Ducati Monster ‘937’ arrives in Australia

2021 Ducati Monster now available


The new Ducati Monster ‘937’ is now available in both Australia and New Zealand from $18,200 ride-away and if you’re not in lockdown, you can head to your local Ducati dealer for a test ride.

The new Monster is fitted with a 111 hp Testastretta 11° engine, which it shares with the latest Supersport 950.

2021 Ducati Monster+

Ducati are calling this the lightest, most compact Monster yet, representing the epitome of the Monster line, even if it does feature a double-sided swingarm. Hence the name, just Ducati Monster, or Monster+ if you’re after the extras, with no number designation.

Euro5 homologated, the engine boosts capacity over the outgoing 821, offering more power and torque while slimming down weight by 2.4 kg. The main gain is in torque which is up to 93 Nm from 85.4, while power is bumped up a couple of ponies and their should be some instant urge thanks to a high 13.3:1 compression ratio.  A slip and assist clutch is also fitted.

The new Monster runs the same powerplant as the SuperSport 950

The frame is based on the design of the Panigale V4, with an aluminium front frame attached directly to the heads, weighing only 3 kg, or 60 per cent less than the previous traditional trellis style unit.

The rims likewise have been shaved down to save 1.7 kg, while the swingarm loses 1.6 kg. The subframe uses Glass Fibre Reinforced Polymer technology to save a further 1.9 kg, with a total of 18 kg saved over the Monster 821, bringing the 2021 Ducati Monster to just 166 kg dry.

Weight savings are seen in the new frame, rims, swingarm and sub-frame

The new Monster is suspended by 43 mm USD forks, while a progressive linkage and preload adjustable monoshock handle the rear of the bike via an aluminium double-sided swingarm.

Brakes are Brembo M4.32 monoblock four-piston units, with semi-floating 320 mm rotors, and a radial master cylinder. At the rear you’ll find a 245 mm rotor with Brembo two-piston floating caliper.

Brakes are Brembo M4.32 calipers

Seat height is now 820 mm with a narrow design between the legs, ensuring an easy reach to the ground. A lower 800 mm accessory seat is also available. For those who need the bike lower still Ducati offer a lowered suspension kit which can further lower the seat height to 775 mm in conjunction with the low seat, but that will of course have trade offs in suspension travel and compliance.

The steering angle has been increased to 36°, up 7° compared to the 821, benefiting low speed maneuvering, with handlebars 70 mm closer to the rider and more upright for better control and comfort. The rider’s feet have also been moved, with Ducati stating ‘the legs are now less curled up’.

Lighting is LED with bars moved back towards the rider

An extensive electronics package includes cornering ABS, traction control and wheelie control as standard, alongside launch control. Ride modes include Sport, Urban and Touring, with electronics controlled via the switchblocks and current settings and speed viewed via a 4.3 TFT display that includes tacho and gear.

Other standard fitment tech includes the Ducati Quick Shift system, full LED lighting, including dynamic indicators and a USB socket for charging personal devices.

On the Monster+ we see a fly screen and passenger seat cover included. Service intervals are 15,000 km or every 12 months, while Desmoservice is every 30,000 km.

2021 Ducati Monster+ in Ducati Red

The 2021 Ducati Monster will be available in Ducati Red and Dark Stealth with black wheels, or in Aviator Grey with GP Red wheels. The Monster+ will be available in the same colours.

The new Monster is available in Australia with a starting price of $18,200 Ride Away.

The Monster with personalised plastic covers

To test ride the new Ducati Monster, find your authorised Ducati dealer here (link).

2021 Ducati Monster Specifications

Specifications
Engine Testatretta 11°, V2 – 90°, 4 valves per cylinder, desmodromic valvetrain, liquid cooled, 937 cc (57 cu in)
Bore x Stroke 94 mm x 67.5 mm
Compression Ratio 13.3:1
Claimed Power 111 hp (82 kW) @ 9,250 rpm
Claimed Torque 9.5 kgm (93 Nm, 69 lb ft) @ 6,500 rpm
Induction Electronic fuel injection system, Ø 53 mm throttle bodies with Ride-by-Wire system
Gears Six-speed
Clutch Slipper and self-servo multiplate wet clutch with hydraulic control
Frame Aluminum alloy Front Frame
Forks Ø 43 mm USD fork
Shock Progressive linkage, preload adjustable monoshock, aluminium double-sided swingarm
Tyres Pirelli Diablo Rosso III 120/70 ZR17, 180/55 ZR17
Front Brakes 2 x Ø 320 mm semi-floating discs, radially mounted Brembo M4.32 monobloc 4-piston callipers, radial master cylinder, Cornering ABS
Rear Brake Ø 245 mm disc, Brembo 2-piston floating calliper, Cornering ABS
Electronics Riding Modes, Power Modes, Cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control, Ducati Wheelie Control, Daytime Running Light
Standard Equipment Ducati Quick Shift, Ducati Power Launch, 4.3″ TFT colour display, Full LED headlight and lighting system, Dynamic turn indicators, USB power socket
Instrumentation 4.3″ TFT colour display
Dry Weight 166 kg (366 lb)
Kerb Weight 188 kg (414 lb)
Seat Height 820 mm (32.3 in)
800 mm (31.5 in) (accessory low seat)
775 mm (30.5 in) (accessory low seat + low suspension kit)
Wheelbase 1,474 mm (58.0 in)
Rake / Trail 24° / 93 mm (3.7 in)
Fuel Capacity 14 l (3.7 US gal)
Service Intervals 15,000 km (9,000 miles) / 12 months
Desmoservice 30,000 km (18,000 miles)
Warranty 24-month, unlimited kilometre
Available TBA
Price From $18,200 ride away

Source: MCNews.com.au

Italian ISDE domination continues on Day 3

ISDE 2021 – Day Three


Rider’s completed their final circuit of the 2021 ISDE’s Valle di Staffora route on Day 3, with Italy strengthening their hold on both the World Trophy and Junior World Trophy standings in the dry and dusty conditions. In the Women’s World Trophy class, the USA continued to dominate, with Josep Garcia again leading the day’s outright results and maintaining his overall combined lead.

2021 ISDE - Valle di Staffora
2021 ISDE – Valle di Staffora

World Trophy – Day 3

Marking the mid-way point of the race, it was again Italy that led the way in the World Trophy competition, extending their overall advantage from one-minute twenty-two seconds to three minutes and twenty seconds. Edging ever further ahead of Spain, Italy’s riders Andrea Verona (GASGAS), Davide Guarneri (Fantic), Thomas Oldrati (Honda), and Matteo Cavallo (TM), all delivered strong performances.

Davide Guarneri was a strong performer
Davide Guarneri was a strong performer

With gaps starting to increase between teams, despite dropping further behind Italy, Spain were able to edge further ahead of the USA, extending their advantage to one-minute and forty-eight seconds. Once again led by the day’s overall fastest rider Josep Garcia (KTM), Spain remains best placed to capitalise should any issues beset Italy during the last half of the event.

Josep Garcia

“I’ve really enjoyed battling with Andrea (Verona) today, when you have to fight for every second and keep pushing, pushing, pushing all the day, it’s the best way to race. I knew coming into today that it would be like that, and my goal was just to keep on pushing. It’s been a good day for the team as well. We can all look forward to a new course tomorrow.”

With France having held down the fourth-place spot through days one and two, at the end of day three it was Sweden, helped by strong performances by both Albin Elowson (Husqvarna) and Mikael Persson (KTM) who moved into fourth. After three days of competition the two nations are separated by less than ten seconds.

World Trophy Team Overall Results – Day 3

POS TEAM DAY  3 TOT
1 TEAM ITALY 2:20’36.67 7:15′ 27.70
2 TEAM SPAIN 2:22’35.20 7:18′ 36.90
3 TEAM UNITED STATES 2:23’08.75 7:20′ 28.00
4 TEAM FRANCE 2:23’53.96 7:21′ 49.79
5 TEAM SWEDEN 2:22’54.25 7:22′ 24.63
6 TEAM PORTUGAL 2:28’17.35 7:37′ 54.41
7 TEAM CZECH REPUBLIC 2:27’59.35 7:39′ 25.86
8 TEAM CANADA 2:31’12.88 7:42′ 37.91
9 TEAM GERMANY 2:29’47.37 7:43′ 21.80
10 TEAM FINLAND 2:31’06.51 7:44′ 28.57

Junior World Trophy

The end of day three saw no change in the overall top five in the Junior World Trophy category with Italy now more than three minutes ahead and finishing fastest on the day. Comfortably ahead of the USA, who in turn sit ahead of France, Italy’s juniors seem determined to match their senior teammates every step of the way at this year’s ISDE.

Just over a minute outside of the top three in fourth, Sweden enjoyed a strong day three, unquestionably helped by Max Ahlin (Husqvarna), who ended the day as the eighth fastest rider overall.

Max Ahlin

“I’m really pleased with the way things have gone today, and a little surprised. I tried to push a little more on the last test on day two and found some good speed. I guess I brought that speed into today and everything worked out great. I liked today’s test, but I’m looking forward to new tests tomorrow. Let’s see how the last few days go for our team.”

One notable change in the Junior World Trophy competition was Finland dropping from sixth at the end of day two to fourteenth and last at the close of day three. With team rider Peetu Juupaluoma (Husqvarna), are exiting the event, Finland became the first Junior World Trophy team to drop to two riders. Benefiting the most, Chile moved into sixth.

Junior World Trophy Team Overall Results – Day 3

POS RIDER DAY  3 TOT
1 TEAM ITALY 2:23’52.26 7:23′ 15.64
2 TEAM UNITED STATES 2:25’13.23 7:26′ 25.41
3 TEAM FRANCE 2:25’55.58 7:27′ 40.56
4 TEAM SWEDEN 2:25’16.05 7:29′ 32.99
5 TEAM SPAIN 2:28’19.85 7:36′ 39.50
6 TEAM CHILE 2:32’52.94 7:52′ 08.87
7 TEAM CZECH REPUBLIC 2:34’10.29 7:58′ 44.54
8 TEAM NORWAY 2:35’57.18 8:00′ 31.14
9 TEAM NETHERLANDS 2:38’28.15 8:06′ 18.05
10 TEAM GERMANY 2:38’00.01 8:10′ 06.17

Women’s World Trophy

The top three nations in the Women’s World Trophy class are the same as they were at the end of day two with the USA ahead of Great Britain and Spain. Now close to nine minutes ahead of Great Britain, team USA once again saw Brandy Richards (KTM) lead the way as she set the pace as the fastest outright female competitor.

Just as the USA extended their advantage over Great Britain, so did Great Britain extend their lead over Spain. The two countries are now separated by close to one minute. More than one hour now separates the fastest Women’s World Trophy team, the USA, from Italy, who sit eighth in class.

Women’s World Trophy Team Overall Results – Day 3

POS TEAM DAY  3 TOT
1 TEAM UNITED STATES 1:46’18.38 5:29′ 04.00
2 TEAM GREAT BRITAIN 1:49’26.55 5:37′ 50.50
3 TEAM SPAIN 1:49’52.60 5:39′ 06.58
4 TEAM PORTUGAL 1:52’54.50 5:48′ 42.32
5 TEAM FRANCE 1:53’37.53 5:50′ 14.35
6 TEAM SWEDEN 1:55’04.61 5:59′ 27.69
7 TEAM GERMANY 2:10’05.33 6:23′ 36.02
8 TEAM ITALY 2:04’19.85 6:36′ 25.70

Garcia tops overall and E2

After enjoying a sizeable margin of victory as the outright fastest rider on day two, on day three Josep Garcia (KTM) was just under three seconds faster than Andrea Verona (GASGAS) with Mikael Persson (KTM) third.

Verona and Persson also sat at the top of the Enduro1 class results on day three with Italy’s Davide Guarneri (Fantic) enjoying his best day of the event so far in third.

In Enduro2 it was again all about Josep Garcia (KTM) with USA’s Taylor Robert second fastest despite a big crash in the opening special test. Producing his best result of the event so far, Sweden’s Albin Elowson (Husqvarna) placed third fastest E2 class rider.

2021 ISDE Day 3
Sweden’s Albin Elowson – 2021 ISDE Day 3

Taylor Robert

“It’s been a strange day for me. I crashed hard on the first test, then felt great on the final test, but my times don’t seem to tell the same story. Other than that, I’m just pleased to get through today. The tests and some of the time controls are super beat up now, tomorrow’s new trails and tests can’t come soon enough.”

Italian riders Matteo Cavallo (TM) and Matteo Pavoni (TM) put in the two fastest Enduro3 class times on day three, closely followed by Spain’s Jaume Betriu (KTM) in third.

The FIM International Six Days of Enduro continues on day four with competitors taking on the new one hundred and ninety-eight-kilometre Valle di Curone lap.

2021 ISDE Results – Individual Top 20 Overall

Pos Rider Cat Nat Man Total
1 GARCIA Josep E2 ESP KTM 2:22’47.72
2 VERONA Andrea E1 ITA GASGAS 2:23’58.50
3 PERSSON Mikael E1 SWE KTM 2:24’43.03
4 CAVALLO Matteo E3 ITA TM 2:25’28.94
5 ROBERT Taylor E2 USA KTM 2:25’30.40
6 PAVONI Matteo E3 ITA TM 2:25’43.15
7 MACORITTO Lorenzo E1 ITA TM 2:26’26.61
8 ESPINASSE Theo E1 FRA HONDA 2:26’27.74
9 OLDRATI Thomas E2 ITA HONDA 2:26’42.50
10 BETRIU Jaume E3 ESP KTM 2:26’44.70
11 GUARNERI Davide E1 ITA FANTIC 2:26’58.76
12 BLANJOUE Hugo E2 FRA KTM 2:27’13.53
13 OLIVEIRA Dante E2 USA KTM 2:27’29.06
14 MICHAEL Layne E2 USA YAMAHA 2:27’36.64
15 ELOWSON Albin E2 SWE HUSQVARNA 2:27’38.58
16 GIRROIR Jonathan E1 USA GASGAS 2:27’46.97
17 AHLIN Max E2 SWE HUSQVARNA 2:27’57.36
18 LE QUERE Leo E3 FRA SHERCO 2:28’02.04
19 SIPES Ryan E3 USA GASGAS 2:28’27.94
20 BASSET Antoine E3 FRA BETA 2:28’29.87

Images courtesy of ISDE

Source: MCNews.com.au

Honda Europe Announces Upgrades to CB500F, X, and CBR500R

Hey, our CB500s are all getting new swingarms, Showa 41mm SFF-BP inverted forks, lighter wheels, dual front discs and revised FI settings!

These bikes are hugely popular, says Honda, who claim to have sold over 106,000 of these CB and CBR500 units across Europe since their introduction in 2013. The CB500F roadster accounts for nearly half of those sales, the racy CBR500R gets about 18% of the credit, and the adventurous CB500X accounts for 35% of the total.

2022 CB500F in Pearl Dusk Yellow

“Inherited from the four cylinder CB650R and CBR650R middleweights,” says Honda, “new Showa 41mm SFF-BP USD forks are the highlights of the new front end set up, delivering improved handling and ride quality. These are now matched to lighter Y spoke aluminum wheels on the CB500F and CBR500R, complete with new dual 296mm wavy front discs and radial mounted Nissin calipers. The adventure focused CB500X shares the same new brake and suspension updates as its siblings and also features longer front suspension travel and a lighter, larger 19in front wheel.”

CB500X in Grand Prix Red

The new, lighter swingarm on all three bikes is said to be stiffer rotationally, but more flexible laterally for improved handling and cornering performance. “The punchy 500cc engine at the heart of each machine still produces the maximum 35kW allowed for the A2 licence holder, but for 2022 it now features new PGM-FI settings to further enhance both torque feel and overall character.” (We tested and dyno’d a CBR500R here in 2018.)

For 2022 the naked CB500F will be available in three paint schemes on the Continent: Pearl Smoky Gray, Mat Axis Gray Metallic and Pearl Dusk Yellow. The CBR500R will be Mat Gunpowder Black Metallic with new graphics befitting its racetrack heritage. The CB500X adventure machine comes in Mat Gunpowder Black Metallic and Pearl Organic Green. All three  will also be available in Honda’s classic Grand Prix Red.

CBR500R in Matt Gunpowder Black Metallic

Also: “Honda’s research of a representative sample of customers shows the breadth of appeal of the three machines across different rider demographics. Figures show that 45% of CB500F and 37% of CBR500R owners are new riders, with 45% and 60% respectively under the age of 34, illustrating how instrumental they have been in bringing new young riders to the world of two wheels.

“Conversely, over 75% of CB500X owners are experienced riders, with a further 15% having been drawn back to motorcycling by the all-round appeal offered by the compact adventurer with its rugged styling, long travel suspension and upright riding position.”

We can vouch. Will US-bound CBs get the same goods? Probably.





The post Honda Europe Announces Upgrades to CB500F, X, and CBR500R appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

2022 Husqvarna FS 450 Supermoto First Look Preview

The 2022 Husqvarna FS 450 supermoto gets a new hydraulic Brembo clutch.

The 2022 Husqvarna FS 450 supermoto gets a new hydraulic Brembo clutch. (Husqvarna/)

Husqvarna has announced a minor upgrade to its FS 450 supermoto track bike for 2022, which will be available in dealerships starting this fall. The bike will pack a new Brembo hydraulic clutch, providing riders with more precise, fade-free action throughout the duration of any race or trackday.

New graphic designs give the bike a cleaner look.

New graphic designs give the bike a cleaner look. (Husqvarna/)

The 2022 revision follows on the heels of last year’s round of tweaks, which included changes to the chassis and geometry to enhance rider control. It’s been a while since we last rode the FS, but back in 2019 when we spun some laps on the bike we found it to be one of the best in its class.

Related: 2021 KTM 450 SMR Supermoto First Ride Review

The updated clutch is meant to provide fade-free action.

The updated clutch is meant to provide fade-free action. (Husqvarna/)

It retains its 449.9cc single engine, WP Xact suspension, Brembo braking components, and Pankl Racing Systems five-speed gearbox. Other premium touches that make this bike ready for action straight off the showroom floor include CNC-machined triple clamps, Alpina wheels, ProTaper handlebars, a carbon fiber composite subframe, slipper clutch, and Bridgestone slicks.

The FS 450 retains all the equipment that has made it a best-in-class supermoto for years.

The FS 450 retains all the equipment that has made it a best-in-class supermoto for years. (Husqvarna/)

Bodywork is tailored for rider control, providing a slim profile and high-grip seat to make it possible to easily maneuver as needed. There are two engine maps riders can choose from, launch control, and traction control.

Related: 2021 KTM 450 SMR MC Commute Review

For closed courses only.

For closed courses only. (Husqvarna/)

The FS 450 also gets some revised graphics, with a little less yellow on the tank and fork than last year’s look. It comes off as a cleaner-looking machine in its 2022 trim thanks to the predominance of Husky’s white and blue. Husqvarna isn’t releasing the official MSRP just yet, but it’s not likely to be far off last year’s $11,299 price tag.

This one’s ready to rip right off the showroom floor.

This one’s ready to rip right off the showroom floor. (Husqvarna/)

2022 Husqvarna FS 450 Technical Specifications and Price

Price: $11,299+
Engine: 449.9cc, SOHC, liquid-cooled single; 4-valve
Bore x Stroke: 95.0 x 63.4mm
Compression Ratio: 12.8:1
Fuel Delivery: Keihin EFI w/ 44mm throttle body
Clutch: Suter anti-hopping slipper, Brembo hydraulics
Transmission/Final Drive: 5-speed/chain
Frame: Central double-cradle chrome-moly steel
Front Suspension: 48mm WP Xact inverted fork, fully adjustable; 11.2 in. travel
Rear Suspension: WP Xact shock, fully adjustable; 10.5 in. travel.
Front Brake: Radial-mount 4-piston Brembo caliper, 310mm disc
Rear Brake: 1-piston caliper, 220mm disc
Wheels, Front/Rear: Alpina spoke wheels; 16.5 x 3.5 / 17 x 5.0
Tires, Front/Rear: Bridgestone R420 slicks; 125/60-16.5 / 165/60-17
Rake/Trail: 26.1°/TBD in.
Wheelbase: 58.1 in.
Seat Height: 35.0 in.
Fuel Capacity: 1.9 gal.
Claimed Dry Weight: 227 lb.
Available: Fall 2021
Contact: husqvarna-motorcycles.com

A phenomenal supermoto machine.

A phenomenal supermoto machine. (Husqvarna/)

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

An Aussie Debut For CFMoto 700 CL-X Sport

When CFMoto’s 700 CL-X Sport, Heritage, and Adventure premiered at the  2019 EICMA Motorcycle Show, the Chinese bike made waves with the company’s clever sourcing of inspiration.

A view of the CFMoto 700 CL-X Series: The Sport, Adventure, and Heritage.

CFMoto was already well-known in the industry for a series of smart bikes that lived up to their spec sheet, the most notable being the 800 MT – an adventure bike based on the KTM 790 Adventure.

A view of the CFMoto 800 MT

For the 700 CL-X series, CFMoto created a surprisingly compact bike with a KTM-inspired design, transmission gleaned from BMW roots, and architecture inspired by the engine of the Kawasaki Z650

The result? A veritable chimera of style, speed, and sound that has kept the masses eager for access. 

A view of the CFMoto 700 CL-X Series: The Sport, Adventure, and Heritage.

Now, we’ve just gotten wind from RideApart that the 700 CL-X Sport variant is on its way to the Central and Eastern Hemispheres – specifically, Australia and Europe.

A view of the CFMoto 700 CL-X Sport Variant, soon to be made available in Australia and the Central and Eastern Hemispheres.

Riding on the successes of the CL-X Classic released to the global market last year, the Sport variant will purportedly showcase a sharper style marrying retro to the modern via a newer aesthetic and a more aggressive riding position (courtesy of clip-on handlebars and rear set controls).

A view of the unique headlight on the all-new CFMoto 700 CL-X Sport Variant, soon to be made available in Australia and the Central and Eastern Hemispheres.

The bike will also sport (pun intended) 17-inch cast-aluminum wheels, as well as a very nice set of Brembo brakes, Adjustable front and rear suspension, and an aluminum alloy swingarm designed to keep things light. 

A view of the gas tank details on the CFMoto 700 CL-X Sport Variant, soon to be made available in Australia and the Central and Eastern Hemispheres.

With the bike tipping the scales at 196 kg and CFMoto’s 693cc parallel-twin engine sporting a neat 73 horsepower, the bike is a solid steal at $9490 AUD or the equivalent of $6,939 USD – a factor that has played big into the series’s popularity, and one that could be extremely profitable, should CFMoto ever decide to expand to the Western Hemisphere and include US Dealerships in their contracts. 

A view of the CFMoto 700 CL-X Sport

The 700 CL-X Sport variant will likely see its Australian debut in the fourth quarter of this year. Make sure to stay tuned for further releases, and stay safe on the twisties!

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Eric Granado: patience, hindsight & representing a nation

“On four wheels, we really had great champions. You know, Senna, I think was one of the best drivers in the world for me, and I really have him like an inspiration. And I already saw that all the movies and books and everything from him. And… I don’t know, I think the karts, the go karts from the beginning, had a lot of support in Brazil when we still have a lot of championships with go karts in Brazil, a lot of karting and tracks that the drivers can race,” says Granado.

Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here

Viñales set to make Aprilia debut at Aragon Grand Prix

Romano Albesiano, Aprilia Racing Technical Director: “The decision to have Maverick on the track from Aragón is a direct result of the tests done in Misano. It was not a given that, after a career spent up to now on a bike with an in-line engine, Maverick would have a good feeling with our V4 straight away. This is why the test on this track, historically not an easy one for our bike, was an important moment of assessment. Therefore, we are satisfied with Maverick’s immediately positive reactions, which demonstrated a good feeling both with the RS-GP and with the team and our work method. His and Aleix’s talent, combined with the experience Lorenzo has gained this season, make us optimistic about the future of our MotoGP project.”

Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here

It’s official! Vinales to race with Aprilia from next round

Vinales to race Aragon with Aprilia

All the pieces have now fallen in place for the Aprilia Racing rider line-up after Maverick Viñales’ début astride the RS-GP during the two days of testing on the Misano Adriatico circuit.

The Spanish rider, extremely impressed by the first contact with the Italian team, will be on the track officially from the Aragón GP, scheduled to be held on the weekend of 12 September. He will take a spot on the Aprilia Racing Team Gresini alongside Aleix Espargaró, who just brought the Noale-based manufacturer their first podium in MotoGP at Silverstone.

Maverick Viñales’
Massimo Rivola – Aprilia Racing CEO

We are extremely proud to be able to announce our plans for the current season and for 2022 with the goal of optimising the contributions of our three riders to the utmost. Alongside our confirmed rider, Aleix, it is our pleasure to welcome a talented athlete like Maverick to the Aprilia Racing team, who demonstrated a great feeling with the team and the bike straight away and who I am confident will be able to give his best as early as the Aragón GP. At the same time, we are also confirming Lorenzo’s role as 2022 test rider. This is a fundamental position that rewards the great efforts he has demonstrated in developing the new RS-GP, whereas he will finish out the 2021 season taking advantage of the wild cards that we’ll decide on together as soon as he is back to 100% fitness.

Maverick Viñales’

Lorenzo Savadori will therefore be confirmed as test rider for the 2022 season, completing an extremely high level trio with the goal of continuing to improve the young RS-GP project. For the rest of the 2021 season, his presence on the track will not be lacking, taking advantage of the wild cards Aprilia has available. Lorenzo’s work schedule will be formalised as soon as he has recovered fully from the injury suffered during the Styria GP, a fractured right malleolus that required surgery.

Romano Albesiano – Aprilia Racing Technical Director

The decision to have Maverick on the track from Aragón is a direct result of the tests done in Misano. It was not a given that, after a career spent up to now on a bike with an in-line engine, Maverick would have a good feeling with our V4 straight away. This is why the test on this track, historically not an easy one for our bike, was an important moment of assessment. Therefore, we are satisfied with Maverick’s immediately positive reactions, which demonstrated a good feeling both with the RS-GP and with the team and our work method. His and Aleix’s talent, combined with the experience Lorenzo has gained this season, make us optimistic about the future of our MotoGP project.

Maverick Viñales’

Source: MCNews.com.au

MotoGP™ contributes to British GP food surplus initiative

A further 332kg of drink and 464kg of food was donated by Severino Catering and MotoGP™ teams. Severino supply catering services to Dorna Sports staff, as well as a host of teams across the MotoGP™, Moto2™ and Moto3™ classes, the Clinica Mobile, media partners and MotoGP™ broadcasters on site. Red Bull, Ducati and Yamaha hospitality suppliers were also key contributors.

Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here

Viñales looking to improve on 1:33.0 on Day 2 in Misano

Ducati are also looking to prepare their riders as best as they can ahead of two rounds in Italy, with Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team), Johann Zarco (Pramac Racing), Luca Marini (SKY VR46 Avintia) and now Enea Bastianini (Avintia Esponsorama) all present on Ducati V4R Superbike machines.

Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here