Renaux clinches MX2 crown at MXGP of Garda | Wilson Todd P5

2021 MXGP of Garda – Round 16


The 2021 MXGP of Garda saw Yamaha claim the top step on both MXGP and MX2 podiums, with Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Racing’s Maxime Renaux clinching his maiden MX2 FIM Motocross World Championship title. Jeremy Seewer celebrated a career second Grand Prix win after two strong races in MXGP and the overall.

For Renaux it will be a hard day to forget as he bounced back for the final race of the triple-header here in Pietramurata, to finish second in race one, while he went on to win the second race and claim that gold plate in style! The Yamaha riders’ season has been an impressive one that has seen him claim 12 podiums which includes five Grand Prix victories and eight race wins.

The Frenchman has led a total of 103 laps and has held the red plate since the fourth round of the season in Oss at the MXGP of the Netherlands.

Maxime Renaux

Meanwhile Seewer was not going to let another podium slip away after missing out on the opportunity during the last two GPs. The Swiss went 1-2 in the races to confirm his spot on the top of the box. But after today’s races we saw another shake up in the MXGP title chase, as Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Jeffrey Herlings succumbed to the pressure in race two and had two big crashes which lost him vital positions and points.

Team HRC’s Tim Gajser went on to win race two, as Monster Energy Kawasaki Racing Team’s Romain Febvre rode two consistent races to bag himself the red plate. It is the first time since 2014, when Gautier Paulin won the opening round in Qatar, that we see the red plate on a Kawasaki machine.

Top Australian meanwhile was Bike It MTX Kawasaki’s Wilson Todd who has moved to within three points of a top-ten ranking in the MX2 class with two hard-charging rides to fifth overall.

Wilson Todd

The Aussie set himself up for a sparkling day after a solid seventh-fastest time in Qualifying by twice gating inside the top ten and in both motos he showed his talent with smart decisive moves to make passes stick around the switchback raceway in the shadow of the Italian Dolomites. Tenth, then ninth, through the first half of moto one he showed his strength and determination throughout the second half of the race to eventually finish seventh, and maintained that speed in race two.

Eighth after the first few turns he moved forward to sixth within ten minutes and continued to push forward to clinch fourth, his best result of the campaign, on the penultimate lap. The thirty-two points haul also earnt fifth overall on the day and he heads to the final two rounds of the championship just three points shy of a top-ten world ranking at the end of the season.

Wilson Todd – P5

“I felt good. I was inside the top ten all day; Qualifying and both motos. I was coming forward, making passes to get into those positions. It’s an improvement; the more I race anywhere the more comfortable I feel. Two more to go, and I’m feeling confident.“

Jed Beaton

Jed Beaton enjoyed a promising first race at the MXGP of Garda with a strong fifth-place finish. Frustratingly, he had a coming together with another rider in the tight and treacherous second turn after the start of moto two, which resulted in a race-long charge towards the front. With two further crashes adding to the challenge, Beaton secured 14th in the moto for ninth overall. Jed now sits just 10 points adrift of fourth in the MX2 World Championship.

Jed Beaton – P9

“Today wasn’t quite how I wanted to finish this triple header. My first race was pretty solid though, I felt good and made passes all moto to place fifth, which was a good start to the day. Then in race two, it all went wrong really. My jump off the gate wasn’t good and then in turn two I got caught up in someone’s bike and I was dead last. I then crashed twice coming through the pack so that one was tough. I’m now looking forward to Mantova for the final two rounds. I’ve done well there in the past and I really want to end the season with positive results.”


MXGP Race 1

In the opening MXGP race of the day, it was Seewer who took the Fox Holeshot as he led his teammate Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP’s Glenn Coldenhoff, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Jorge Prado, MRT Racing Team’s Alessandro Lupino and Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Antonio Cairoli. Meanwhile Gajser, Herlings and Febvre started in sixth, seventh and eighth.

Jeremy Seewer

Prado then quickly made a move on Coldenhoff, as Gajser looked to do the same. The Slovenian was not successful in his attempts which allowed Febvre and Herlings to close in.

Gajser and Febvre then went at it for third, with the pair switching positions a few times before Febvre was able to block pass Gajser to move into third. And while the Honda and Kawasaki riders battled each other, Herlings continued to lurk in the background as he searched for an opportunity to get by both.

Tim Gajser

Seewer stretched out his lead to 3.946 seconds as he was improving upon his lap time almost every lap around. The Swiss was looking in control, up until a slight error put him on the ground. Luckily, he was up quickly and could maintain his position in the lead.

Febvre was eventually able to get past Coldenhoff for third as he set his sights on Prado who was ahead in second position.

Seewer then set another fastest lap time of the race as he stayed ahead of Prado by 4.110 seconds, as Gajser closed in on Coldenhoff again. Herlings kept things close too as both him and Gajser got past the Yamaha rider in the same corner.

Romain Febvre

Herlings then passed Gajser, as Febvre also took second from Prado. While Febvre safely had hold of his position, Herlings did not as Gajser was looking to fight back immediately. The pair made contact on several occasions, but Herlings was able to assert his position as Cairoli also joined the battle.

Cairoli got ahead of Gajser but not for long as the Slovenian fought back. Cairoli then kept a close distance to Gajser until the end of the race as they both made their way through backmarkers.

Tony Cairoli

Herlings then managed to get by Prado, but the Spaniard didn’t go down without a fight. Gajser was next to catch-up to the KTM rider and after a few tries got past him too as Cairoli did the same to move up to fifth.

With three laps to go, it looked like Febvre was slowly closing in on the leader, but then on the last lap he went down hard which cost him a load of time, but he did however hold on to his position.

Jeremy Seewer

In the end Seewer went on to claim his first race win of the season, as Febvre finished second ahead of Herlings in third. Gajser brought it home in fourth ahead of Cairoli who was fifth.

MXGP Race 2

In race two, it was Prado with the second Fox Holeshot, which was his 15th of the season! He led the way ahead of Cairoli and Gajser. Herlings started in sixth while Febvre was down in 13th.

Jorge Prado

Gajser then got around Cairoli for second and not long after made a move on Prado to get into the lead. Meanwhile Herlings was also making moves as he got himself into second.

He then had his teammate, Prado, to deal with who didn’t make things easy but eventually the Dutchman was able to get around the Spaniard and shift his focus onto getting Gajser. Just behind then, Febvre got around Cairoli for fourth and immediately went after Prado, who again was not backing down.

Gajser then led the way by just 1.214 seconds as Herlings remained close. It was looking like Herlings was setting up to make a pass but then the Bullet made a mistake and went flying over the bars. He got going again just behind Coldenhoff in seventh.

Tim Gajser

While that was going on, Seewer managed to get Cairoli for fifth and then followed that up by getting Febvre too. The Frenchman was not going to let the Swiss have the position easy and immediately fought back. The pair then caught onto Prado too, with the trio exchanging positions several times before Seewer was able to get ahead.

Febvre then had Cairoli on his case who passed him for fourth. The Kawasaki rider was again quick to respond and managed to maintain his spot. This then urged him onto Prado, as he took third from the KTM rider.

Romain Febvre

Herlings was also making progress as he got by Coldenhoff and then Prado, as the Spaniard came under more fire from Cairoli and the drop down to sixth. It then looked like Cairoli was going after Herlings and that’s when the Bullet crashed again!

Seewer also went down for a brief moment but was able to get going quickly to stay ahead of Febvre. Febvre did close in at one point, but Seewer was showing great pace and it was no match for Febvre who settled for third.

Herlings got going outside the top 10 and then made some passes on the likes of Mathys Boisrame of Monster Energy Kawasaki Racing Team, Benoit Paturel of Honda SR Motoblouz as well as Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Racing’s Ben Watson, Glenn Coldenhoff and Prado in the next few laps. He eventually came home in fourth place.

Mathys Boisrame

Gajser went on to win the race 5.961 seconds ahead of Seewer with Febvre third.

A 1-2 result gave Seewer the overall, while Gajser was second and Febvre third overall. With Febvre added 42 points compared to Herlings’ 38, to his title chase, which means that he now leads the MXGP standings by one point over Gajser, with Herlings a further two points behind.

Once again, the top three are within three points of each other as we head into the final two rounds in Mantova.

Jeremy Seewer – P1

“This MXGP win, I did it myself and I deserved it. I was up front, and no one beat me. It feels amazing, especially where I came from this year. A couple of weeks ago I was far off, and I was struggling with my health and mentally. I started to feel good a few weeks ago. I am really happy to sit here now with a first overall. I was very unlucky in my last two races; I just missed the podium both times. But it was worth the wait for this win.”

Jeremy Seewer

Tim Gajser – P2

“It was a good day. We definitely need to work on the first races. I have been struggling with those the last couple of weeks. Anyway, the second one was good. I was feeling good and the start was way better. I made quick passes in the beginning. Then suddenly there was a 10 second gap for me and I was able to control the race from that point on. But anyway, the championship is intense. It’s unbelievable to think that there are just two GPs left and we are all within three points. I will do my best. I am really happy with today. We still have two GPs to go, so game on!”

Tim Gajser
Tim Gajser

Romain Febvre – P3

“It feels good. We still have two rounds to go to keep the red plate and turn it to gold. I can smell the taste of the championship. I am really happy about my weekend. We worked on the start which worked well in the first race. The second one was not good. In the first one, I made a lot of passes and made my way to second place. I tried to catch Jeremy but he was obviously riding really good. Nothing to say. I tried. I saw that I was catching up to him in the last two laps but unfortunately, I made quite a big mistake and crashed. Luckily, I had a big gap which allowed me to recover and finish second after all. The second race, my start was really bad, but I managed to have a good first lap and pass eight riders. I was still able to finish the race in third place. Jeremy made a mistake, and I closed the gap. I was thinking “should I go for the GP victory, or should I settle for the red plate?”. I felt like I did both. Maybe I was thinking a little bit too much and I could not match Jeremy’s pace. I settled for third and took the red plate. I am really happy.”

Romain Febvre

Jeffrey Herling – P4

“Where can I start?! The day actually began quite good but then went downhill from there! My start was alright in the first moto but I could not get in my rhythm for the first three laps and at one point I was 4th but lost a lot of time passing Jorge. Basically, Romain and Jeremy had then gone. 3rd place was still OK. In the second moto I really wanted to attack and go for the win. I was into 2nd on the second lap and I thought ‘this is going to be my moto’. I went over the finish line jump and wanted to chase Tim because I felt I had the speed but the bike went left-right and I was shot-off. It was my mistake but the bike was then a bit bent and I needed some laps to get used to it. The rhythm was coming back and I was close to Romain but my hand came off the bar over that same jump and I was shot to the moon. That was a big hit with a big crash. The bike was even more bent! I knew then I would need something special today. I was 10th and I needed to keep pushing because every point counts. To go home only 3 points down, I know it is still in my own hands. I didn’t make it easy for myself and the last two GPs here have been tough but it is all still possible. Thanks to Tony. Only the greatest and the biggest champions would do that. To me he not only showed his loyalty to KTM but helped me a lot because those are two very important points. Only a real team player would do that. Jorge as well, I had to pass him three times in that second moto. It was a real team effort and I cannot thank them enough.”

Jeffrey Herling

Tony Cairoli – P5

“Pretty good today. In the first moto I had a good start but made a few mistakes on the first laps and dropped from 5th to 7th. I passed back to 5th but it was difficult to make those moves: sadly I couldn’t make the same excellent start that I had on Wednesday. The guys in front were too far by the time I could get through. I felt a podium was possible, even if a top-five is always good. In the last moto I had the pace to go a bit faster but I did not want to get in the middle of the fight for the championship. Jeffrey made a crash in front of me and again there was a big gap. I had settled for 4th when I saw Jeffrey was coming on the last two laps. For me 4th or 5th was not that important because I knew I wouldn’t have been on the podium so I gave [away] my position. I hope a few points more will help him and KTM for the championship. That’s KTM’s goal for this year.”

Jorge Prado – P6

“I’m happy with 6th. The last two races here have not been very good with my back and it’s been hard to get two consistent motos. It’s been a tough few weeks with both the injuries to my arm and then my back. I’ve missed training and haven’t ridden much. I can feel it. Physically I’m still not 100%. It’s only been one-week-and-a-half since I had the fracture, even if it is slowly getting better. Today was less painful than the other races. I had a good second moto start and I enjoyed the riding. We do this sport because we love it and it’s nice to enjoy your racing. It was a pity to have arm-pump in the first moto. I got a bit tight. 6th was the best I could do in the second moto. Overall, I’m happy.”

Jorge Prado

Glenn Coldenhoff – P7

“It started well; I got the sixth time in Timed Practice, which is really good. I got a good start in the first moto, right being my teammate Jeremy (Seewer), and then I got stuck behind (Jorge) Prado and lost my rhythm. Then I dropped back and didn’t feel too comfortable. I felt better in the second moto but got stuck behind Prado again. I know I need to be more aggressive to make a pass but to be aggressive, you also need to be at the right place at the right time. Again, a disappointing result, but I will keep fighting.”

Ben Watson – P8

“I had a really good day. I’ve enjoyed today a lot; even qualifying was good, which is a big positive point after struggling all year. I felt really good with how I was riding and just had a lot of fun. Even in the second race, I was battling with the fast guys for the whole moto, and felt comfortable in the mix like that is my position. In the end, I finished seventh, which I am happy with.”

Thomas Kjer Olsen – P11

“I’m a little disappointed with today after how well things went on Wednesday. It all came down to my starts not being the best – this class is so stacked that it’s difficult to be in the top 10 when you don’t start up front. I was actually in 10th briefly in race one until I collided with another rider and that pushed me back to 12th. One positive I can take from today is that I felt really good on the bike, really comfortable and I could push to the end of both races. It’s taken a while but I feel really confident now and if I can improve my starts, then I can be back inside the top-10 overall and battling with the top guys.”

2021 MXGP of Garda Results

Pos Rider Nat. Bike R1 R2 Total
1 Seewer, Jeremy SUI YAM 25 22 47
2 Gajser, Tim SLO HON 18 25 43
3 Febvre, Romain FRA KAW 22 20 42
4 Herlings, Jeffrey NED KTM 20 18 38
5 Cairoli, Antonio ITA KTM 16 16 32
6 Prado, Jorge ESP KTM 14 15 29
7 Coldenhoff, Glenn NED YAM 15 13 28
8 Watson, Ben GBR YAM 11 14 25
9 Wright, Dylan CAN HON 12 11 23
10 Lupino, Alessandro ITA KTM 13 8 21
11 Olsen, Thomas Kjer DEN HUS 9 9 18
12 Van Horebeek, Jeremy BEL BET 10 7 17
13 Paturel, Benoit FRA HON 0 12 12
14 Simpson, Shaun GBR KTM 7 5 12
15 Guillod, Valentin SUI YAM 8 3 11
16 Boisrame, Mathys FRA KAW 0 10 10
17 Van doninck, Brent BEL YAM 4 6 10
18 Locurcio, Lorenzo VEN KTM 6 4 10
19 Jacobi, Henry GER HON 5 0 5
20 Koch, Tom GER KTM 2 1 3
21 Philippaerts, David ITA YAM 3 0 3
22 Butron, Jose ESP KTM 0 2 2
23 Brylyakov, Vsevolod MFR HON 1 0 1

2021 MXGP Standings – Round 16

Pos Rider Nat. Bike Total
1 Febvre, Romain FRA KAW 614
2 Gajser, Tim SLO HON 613
3 Herlings, J. NED KTM 611
4 Prado, Jorge ESP KTM 502
5 Seewer, Jeremy SUI YAM 498
6 Cairoli, A. ITA KTM 496
7 Coldenhoff, G. NED YAM 397
8 Jonass, Pauls LAT GAS 391
9 Lupino, A. ITA KTM 287
10 Olsen, T. DEN HUS 284
11 Watson, Ben GBR YAM 269
12 Bogers, Brian NED GAS 241
13 Vlaanderen, C. NED YAM 203
14 Van Horebeek, J. BEL BET 202
15 Jacobi, Henry GER HON 172
16 Van doninck, B. BEL YAM 133
17 Tonus, Arnaud SUI YAM 119
18 Simpson, Shaun GBR KTM 113
19 Forato, A. ITA GAS 111
20 Paturel, B. FRA HON 105

MX2 Race 1

In the first MX2 race, it was again, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Tom Vialle with the Fox Holeshot but his teammate Rene Hofer was quick to act as he dived into the lead. Vialle dropped to third as Bastian Boegh Damm of WZ Racing Team went into second place.

Tom Vialle

Renaux started the race in around eighth position, while Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Mattia Guadagnini was 24th.

Then we saw a big moment between Boegh Damm and Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Racing’s Jago Geerts as the pair came together on the downhill and had a huge crash. This allowed Renaux into third and then into second.

Hofer then led Renaux, Vialle, Andrea Adamo of SM Action Racing Team YUASA Battery, as Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Jed Beaton got onto the rear wheel of Simon Längenfelder of Diga Procross GasGas Factory Racing for sixth and eventually managed to pass him.

Simon Längenfelder

Guadagnini was also making passes as he got himself into 13th, but the Italian would later crash and pull out of the race.

Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Racing’s Thibault Benistant and Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Kay de Wolf were next to catch onto the rear wheel of Längenfelder, with the German not able to keep the pair behind him as he dropped two more positions.

Honda 114 Motorsports’ Ruben Fernandez was on a charge as he got by Adamo for fourth and then set his sights on Vialle for third.

Rene Hofer

Hofer was still the race leader as he set the fastest lap time of the race to extend his lead to 5.977 seconds ahead of Renaux. The Austrian pretty much rode a race of his own as he was unchallenged for the entire heat.

Beaton then caught onto Adamo for fifth. He managed to go around the outside of the Italian, but the GasGas rider was quick to fight back. But Beaton managed to stay ahead.

Further ahead, Fernandez was on a mission as he got onto the back of Vialle and went after third place. He was almost a second faster than the Frenchman on that lap and was able to get himself into third.

Maxime Renaux

Benistant was next to catch-up to Adamo. He squeezed past the Italian who responded in the next corner, but Benistant got him back to assert his position in sixth.

In the end, Hofer was victorious as he crossed the finish line 4.966 seconds ahead of Renaux and Fernandez.

MX2 Race 2

In race two, it was Vialle again who got ahead in the start and claimed his 19th Fox Holeshot of the season. Renaux was second ahead of Benistant and Isak Gifting of Diga Procross GasGas Factory Racing, who got a great start in fourth. Geerts was there also in fifth.

Isak Gifting

Geerts then came under fire from de Wolf for fifth. The Belgian could not hold on as he made a mistake and went down. He did not re-join the race due to a technical problem and that was his title fight over.

Renaux then set the fastest lap of the race as he got within 1.094 seconds of Vialle. He waited a couple of laps before launching an attack, but by lap five was the new race leader.

Maxime Renaux

Gifting then came under immense pressure from de Wolf and Fernandez. Both the Husqvarna and the Honda rider were able to get around him to move up into fourth and fifth. Not long after Wilson Todd of Bike it MTX Kawasaki did the same. F&H Kawasaki Racing’s Mikkel Haarup, who had the second fastest lap time in time practice, caught and passed Längenfelder for eighth and then had Gifting in his sights too.

Wilson Todd

Meanwhile, the race one winner, Hofer, didn’t have the best start to the race as he ended up going down. He did however make a decent recovery to get back to eighth by the end of the heat.

Längenfelder then crashed out of eighth, as Benistant lost a few positions too. One of the riders to pass Benistant was Haarup, who also got past de Wolf by the end of the race, as the Husqvarna rider dropped to sixth.

Mikkel Haarup

Renaux went on to win the race 3.105 seconds ahead of Vialle who crossed the line in second position, while Fernandez finished third.

A 2-1 result gave Renaux the overall victory as he also claimed the gold plate to become this year’s MX2 World Champion, meanwhile Vialle was second on the podium and added some solid championship points as he moved into second position. Fernandez was the last rider to mount the podium, keeping a 100% podium record here in Pietramurata this season.

Maxime Renaux – P1

“It means a lot to me. We made it; we are the 2021 MX2 World Champions. That’s a great achievement. As you said, we had to work a lot for that. The past years and past rounds were really tough for me. Lots of ups and downs, and bad starts. But we were able to have a good race today. I am also so happy to get my first world title with a race and GP win. It means a lot to me because it’s grabbing the title with a win feels a bit better. It was an amazing day for me, one that I will never forget for sure.”

Maxime Renaux

Tom Vialle – P2

“It actually was not really a bad day for me. After the crash on Wednesday, I hurt my ankle a lot. So, I was not sure if I could ride today. Riding in the morning was not so bad, but I could feel the pain after every jump. First race was pretty tough. I had a decent start, but I couldn’t follow the leader also due to arm pump. I just tried to finish it off. I finished in 4th place. It wasn’t too bad. I was feeling better in the second one. I just tried to ride the best I could. I am happy today with the podium.”

Tom Vialle

Ruben Fernandez – P3

“It feels good to get three podiums out of three. I feel like I’ve been really solid which is normally not one of my strongest points. I could stay calm during the races and not make mistakes. I had to come from the back and work my way to the front most of the times. I am happy with that, because this is something I want to bring with me into next season. I want to be mistake-free let’s say and try to keep it cool on the track.”

Rene Hofer – P4

“Still a pretty good day I’d say with my second MX2 moto win. I’m pretty overwhelmed by all the things that are going on right now. Two wins from six motos here. Unfortunately, I missed the podium because of a crash in the second moto but my riding was good to come back to 8th. I’m doing well and we’re also performing good in the championship: we are only three points behind 5th, and 4th place is also not far. We’ll give it all in the last two GPs to try and improve my standing.”

Kay de Wolf – P7

“Overall, it’s been a good day for me. Race one was pretty crazy, I was in a battle for the whole moto. It was just wide open with a few other riders, it was a fun race and finishing eighth was pretty decent. I had a much better start in race two and moved into third and felt really comfortable up front. Unfortunately, in the wave section I almost had a huge crash and that really pushed up my heart rate. It took a couple of laps to regain my focus but for the rest of the race I couldn’t find a good line through the waves, which cost me some time and I ended up sixth. Two rounds to go and I’m excited for Mantova. I’ve had a pretty good week here in Trentino so I’m looking to going there and being in some more battles.”

Kay de Wolf

Mikkel Haarup – P8

“I felt good already from the word go out there today. We tried a few things in Free Practice and it paid off; I did three very quick times within the same second for P2 in Qualifying, and I was even P1 for a time, so I knew already that my pace was really good. I had a decent start in race one but another rider crashed into me and put me outside the top twenty before I came back to fourteenth. My riding was really positive and in the first few laps of race two I just stayed out of trouble after a decent start. Towards the end I was picking off guys to finish fifth. I had the speed today and hopefully we can improve even further next weekend in Mantova.”

Simon Langenfelder – P11

“Well, I guess I was consistent today! 11th in qualifying then 11th in both races. I had a great start in race one but I just didn’t quite have the speed to stay up front, which was a little frustrating. I was feeling much better in race two but then I tipped over while in eighth, which is easily done on this track. Not my best day, not the worst, but solid points and now it’s onto Mantova next weekend.”

2021 MXGP of Garda – MX2 Results

Pos Rider Nat. Bike R1 R2 Total
1 Renaux, Maxime FRA YAM 22 25 47
2 Vialle, Tom FRA KTM 18 22 40
3 Fernandez, Ruben ESP HON 20 20 40
4 Hofer, Rene AUT KTM 25 13 38
5 Todd, Wilson AUS KAW 14 18 32
6 Benistant, Thibault FRA YAM 15 14 29
7 de Wolf, Kay NED HUS 13 15 28
8 Haarup, Mikkel DEN KAW 7 16 23
9 Beaton, Jed AUS HUS 16 7 23
10 Adamo, Andrea ITA GAS 11 11 22
11 Laengenfelder, Simon GER GAS 10 10 20
12 Hsu, Brian GER KTM 9 9 18
13 Mewse, Conrad GBR KTM 12 4 16
14 Guadagnini, Mattia ITA KTM 0 12 12
15 Sandner, Michael AUT KTM 6 3 9
16 Gifting, Isak SWE GAS 0 8 8
17 Geerts, Jago BEL YAM 8 0 8
18 Boegh Damm, Bastian DEN KTM 0 6 6
19 Pancar, Jan SLO KTM 1 5 6
20 Goupillon, Pierre FRA KTM 5 0 5
21 Zonta, Filippo ITA HON 4 0 4
22 Congost, Gerard ESP YAM 3 0 3
23 Polak, Petr CZE YAM 0 2 2
24 Scuteri, Emilio ITA TM 2 0 2
25 Wagenknecht, Jan CZE KTM 0 1 1

2021 MX2 Standings – Round 16 (Top 20)

Pos Rider Nat. Bike Total
1 Renaux, Maxime FRA YAM 642
2 Vialle, Tom FRA KTM 532
3 Geerts, Jago BEL YAM 516
4 Guadagnini, M. ITA KTM 487
5 Beaton, Jed AUS HUS 477
6 Hofer, Rene AUT KTM 474
7 Benistant, T. FRA YAM 413
8 de Wolf, Kay NED HUS 412
9 Fernandez, R. ESP HON 404
10 Laengenfelder, S. GER GAS 291
11 Todd, Wilson AUS KAW 288
12 Haarup, Mikkel DEN KAW 270
13 Gifting, Isak SWE GAS 239
14 Boisrame, M. FRA KAW 223
15 Adamo, Andrea ITA GAS 217
16 Van De Moosdijk, R. NED KAW 190
17 Mewse, Conrad GBR KTM 160
18 Rubini, S. FRA HON 142
19 Boegh Damm, B. DEN KTM 112
20 Pancar, Jan SLO KTM 108

Source: MCNews.com.au

BMW adds features to K 1600 tourers

BMW Motorrad Australia has announced the updated range of K 1600 tourers will arrive in Australia early next year with surprising price reductions.

In the case of the GT, the drop in price is only $20, but for the B it is an astonishing $2634.

The K 1600 family Aussie prices for 2022 are:

Model Current price New price
K 1600 GT $42,140.00 $42,120.00
K 1600 GT Sport $43,459.00 $41,920.00
K 1600 GT Option 719 $45,735.00 $44,080.00
K 1600 GTL $43,890.00 $41,860.00
K 1600 GTL *Elegance $45,582.00 $42,972.00
K 1600 GTL Option 719 $47,494.00 $44,860.00
K 1600 B $42,635.00 $41,125.00
K 1600 B Grand America $44,695.00 $43,740.00

(*Note that the K 1600 GTL Elegance is now called Exclusive.)

K 1600 range

The price reduction comes despite engine improvements, more torque, LED lighting and updated Dynamic ESA electronic suspension with fully automatic load compensation.

Chief among the updates is the six-cylinder engine which now meets current EU-5 regulations.

It also has BMS-O engine control, two knock sensors and two additional broadband lambda probes.

Power remains at 118kW (160 hp), although now at just 6750rpm, which is 1000rpm lower than before, while torque is up from 175Nm to 180Nm at 5250rpm. 

It also features engine drag torque control (MSR) to reduce rear wheel slip when coasting or shifting down gears.

BMW Motorrad’s “next generation” Dynamic ESA on the new K 1600 GT, GTL, B and Grand America automatically adapts to the riding conditions, rider behaviour and load.

The new K 1600 GT, GTL, B and Grand America come standard with LED lighting and swivelling adaptive headlight to point into the curve at night.

New 10.25-inch TFT colour display

These models also get standard 10.25-inch TFT colour display with integrated map navigation and connectivity.

All K 1600 models are fitted with the improved Audio System ECE and come in a variety of colour options, including Black Storm Metallic, Light White/Racing Blue Metallic/Racing Red combination and special finishes Option 719 Mineral White Metallic and Option 719 Meteoric Dust 2 Metallic.

Aussie pricing (minus on-road costs) and specification:

K 1600 GT

K 1600 GT: $41,120
Standard specification:

  • 1649cc 6-cylinder inline cross engine (12.2:1 compression, EU5, 118kW @ 5,250 rpm, 180Nm at 5,250 rpm, Shaft Drive, Anti-hopping Clutch, Powertrain Black)
  • Comfort Package (Keyless Ride, Gear shift assistant Pro, Central locking system, Anti-theft alarm system)
  • Touring Package (Audio System ECE, LED additional Fog Light, Engine Protection Bar)
  • Radio software OCE
  • Daytime Riding Light
  • Cast aluminium wheels
  • BMW Motorrad Integral ABS
  • ABS Pro
  • BMW Motorrad Duolever
  • BMW Motorrad Paralever
  • Dynamic ESA
  • Hill Start Control Pro
  • DTC (Dynamic Traction Control)
  • Steering Stabiliser
  • Tyre Pressure Control
  • Steering stabiliser
  • Revolution counter
  • Electronic Immobiliser
  • Colour TFT 10.25″ Screen with Connectivity
  • Floor Lighting
  • Audio System ECE
  • Heated Grips
  • Comfort turn indicator
  • LED Headlight and Taillight
  • Multi-Controller
  • Adaptive Headlight
  • Configurable Function Buttons
  • Seat Heating
  • 12V socket
  • Cruise control
  • Riding modes
  • Centre stand
  • Integral Panniers (removable)
  • Adjustable windscreen (electric)
  • Two-Tone Fanfare Horn
  • Luggage Rack
  • Adjustable Clutch/Handbrake Lever
  • Reversing Aid
  • Smartphone Tray with USB port
  • Lockable Storage Compartments
  • Seat height: 810/830mm
  • Finished in Black Storm Metallic

Options

  • Seat Low (780/800mm): No cost option
  • Option 719 Forged Wheels Classic: $2500
  • Option 719 Seat Bench: $350

K 1600 GT Sport: $41,920

Includes all standard specification and optional equipment from the K 1600 GT but is finished in Light White/Racing Blue Metallic/Racing Red.

K 1600 GT Option 719: $44,080

Includes all standard specification and optional equipment from the K 1600 GT but is finished in Option 719 Mineral white metallic.

K 1600 B: $41,125

Includes all standard specification from the K 1600 GT but can be optioned at no cost in the following finishes:

Jordi Torres racing the Energixa Ego Corsa MotoE Bike
  • Black Storm Metallic
  • Option 719 Meteoric Dust Metallic
  • Manhattan Metallic Matt

Options

  • Compartment (replaces floorboard): No cost option
  • Tinted windshield: No cost option
  • Option 719 Forged Wheels Classic: $2500
  • Option 719 Seat Bench: $350
  • Special Model Midnight (Option 719 Seat Bench and Option 719 Meteoric Dust 2 Metallic): $3700
    BMW K 1600 Grand America

K 1600 B Grand America: $43,740

Includes all standard specification from the K 1600 B and adds the following:

  • Windshield High
  • Additional audio system speakers
  • Top Case

Options

  • Seat high (800mm): No cost option
  • Option 719 Forged Wheels Classic: $2500
  • Option 719 Seat Bench: $350
    K 1600 GTL

K 1600 GTL: $41,860

Mirrors specification of K 1600 GT and finished exclusively in Black Storm Metallic.

Options

  • Seat high (800mm): No cost option
  • Option 719 Forged Wheels Classic: $2500
  • Option 719 Seat Bench: $350

K 1600 GTL Exclusive: $42,975

Mirrors specification and options of K 1600 GTL but finished exclusively in Gravity Blue Metallic.

K 1600 GTL Option 719: $44,860

Mirrors specification and options of K 1600 GTL Exclusive but finished exclusively in Option 719 Mineral White Metallic.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Venom star Tom Hardy back on Ducati

Hollywood actor Tom Hardy trades his personal Triumph Thruxton R is back on a Ducati for the second instalment of the Venom Marcel Comics movie.

In the first Spiderman spinoff movie in 2018, the actor and motorcycle fan rode a Scrambler Full Throttle.

For Venom 2, Eddie Brock, the motorcycle-loving, symbiote-inhabiting anti-hero is on a Ducati Panigale.

Even though he rides, he does very little riding in his movies, including Mad Max in Mad Max: Fury Road.

Check out the Venom 2 trailer here:

Tom is also wearing a British Goldtop ’72 Easy Rider leather jacket in the new film.

The original Easy Rider jacket was released in 1972, heavily inspired by the 1969 film of the same name.

Now the company’s modern re-release comes with a more modern fit, a dropped back, and removable armour as standard, in addition to being CE AAA Certified as are all of their motorcycle jackets.

In Australia, it costs $587.

The jacket is made of 1.4mm thickness black aniline cowhide leather and features an industrial grade hand-polished centre zip with AERO pull, blue quilted lining, 3 zipped external pockets, 2 interior chest pockets, adjustable cuffs with traditional ball zips, stainless steel adjustable waist buckles and collar snap, tan suede leather trim inside collar and black suede leather trim inside cuffs and zip guard.

The traditional British motorcycle clothing brand was revived in 2012.

Goldtop was established in 1951 by Godfreys of Hull who started by producing horse riding clothing for the British Household Cavalry as well as jackets, boots and gloves for the motorcycle police.

Their gear became popular among motorcycle riders, but like too many British manufacturers in the 1970s and ‘80s, the brand went bankrupt and closed in the mid 1980s.

However, London rider Kasey Cullen, whose background is in the vintage gloves and clothing industry, bought the rights to the logo in 2012 and began re-introducing some of the old products.

Goldtop Joe Cullen Goldtop Bobber gloves
Joe Cullen wearing a Goldtop jacket and Bobber gloves

To copy the original designs, Kasey and his son, Joe, studied historic photos and bought old gear from eBay.

However, they are now re-manufactured using modern manufacturing techniques and only the highest quality materials and fittings they can source. 

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Lettenbichler wins GetzenRodeo | Billy Bolt 2021 Hard Enduro Champ

2021 FIM Hard Enduro World Championship
24MX GetzenRodeo


Britain’s Billy Bolt has won the 2021 FIM Hard Enduro World Championship by the narrowest of margins, ending the season tied on points with Manuel Lettenbichler, but claiming the overall victory nonetheless – the sport’s first FIM Hard Enduro World Champion.

Billy Bolt made it one to remember at the 2021 GetzenRodeo winner runner up enough to claim the Hard Enduro title

Despite giving his all and winning the eighth and final round of the championship, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Lettenbichler ended his season as vice-world champion, while Sherco Factory Racing’s Wade Young joined them on the championship podium for third overall.

It all came down to 24MX GetzenRodeo to decide the sport’s first world champion. The math was simple. If Manuel Lettenbichler won his home race, Billy had to finish in second place to clinch the title on a tiebreaker.

Manuel Lettenbichler just needed to win and Bolt to not be runner up at GetzenRodeo

The two-hour morning GetzenRace offered a taste of what was to come for the afternoon feature GetzenChamp battle. With 60 riders starting to the deafening sound of a cannon, the fight was on to earn one of the top-15 qualifying positions. Bolt and Lettenbichler meant business and after a race-long battle, Lettenbichler just beat Bolt across the line to win.

Heading into the GetzenChamp race, with the Red Bull TV cameras rolling, the history books were waiting to be written following the next 80 minutes and one lap of racing. Lettenbichler was the first rider flagged away, with Bolt hot on his heels, four seconds later. Next came Young, Mario Roman (Sherco), Alfredo Gomez (Husqvarna), and Jonny Walker (Beta).

Alfredo Gomez – 2021 GetzenRodeo

Midway through lap one, Bolt caught and passed Lettenbichler and built a gap of 10 seconds. But then things appeared to unravel for the Brit. A mistake on a technical climb sparked a catalogue of errors and as Bolt dropped down as far as sixth, Lettenbichler took the lead and suddenly looked champion elect. Bolt had to regroup.

Needing a moment to reset, Bolt then got to work and picked the riders off. Up to second by mid-distance, he was back in charge of the championship outcome. However, Roman was in close contention in third and not allowing for any more mistakes from Bolt.

Billy Bolt – 2021 GetzenRodeo

Gradually as the race progressed, the top three broke away from the rest of the field. On the final lap, Bolt had the gap to Lettenbichler down to one minute and was now comfortably ahead of Roman in third. The championship was his to lose and Lettenbichler knew it too.

For Mani, it was a near flawless performance as he crossed the finish line to win the 24MX GetzenRodeo for the third time in succession. However, this time around it wasn’t enough to win the title. Dropping out of the final Red Bull X-Loop, Bolt reached the chequered flag in second and with it became Hard Enduro’s first FIM World Champion.

Manuel Lettenbichler – 2021 GetzenRodeo

With the top two championship placings settled, Young held off a late charge from Vision Track Beta’s Jonny Walker to maintain fourth in the race and third overall in the championship. Roman, with a strong ride for third on the day, was unable to leapfrog his teammate in the standings and took fourth overall. Consistent as ever, Walker completed the championship top-five with fifth in Germany.

With the inaugural FIM Hard Enduro World Championship delivered, the wait is now on for the 2022 season, beginning with the Minus 400 in Israel on April 5-7.

Billy Bolt – 2021 Champion

“WORLD CHAMPIONS! What an amazing feeling it is. It’s going to take a while to process this one. I can’t believe I’m the FIM Hard Enduro World Champion. It was a heck of a race today. We all knew what we had to do, and we made it happen. I rode great this morning in the qualifier, but I hurt my finger. I was struggling a little with that in the beginning of the race and made a lot of mistakes early on. But I settled myself, regrouped and recovered. When I got back up to second, I closed the gap to Mani to one minute, but didn’t want to risk anything. Riding into the finish line as the world champion was such an amazing moment. It’s been a great year and I can’t thank all of the team enough for their support. We did it!”

Billy Bolt and team celebrate – 2021 GetzenRodeo

Manuel Lettenbichler – Runner-up (GetzenRodeo P1)

“I’m tired, I’m really tired, but super stoked to get the win. I knew I had to do it here at home in Germany and go all-out for victory in front of the fans. To be tied with Billy on points at the end of such a tough championship just shows how hard we were both pushing all season. I really think we have both raised the bar this year. Obviously, it’s disappointing to have come so close, finish on the same points, and only get second in the championship. But I gave it everything and you can’t ask for more than that. The morning race went really well. It was close with Billy and me, but I managed to get ahead just before the finish. The main race was super tough. At first, I was riding so stiff, and my arms felt really heavy. Then, after a couple of battles with Billy I managed to get out front and find a good rhythm. I built up a good lead and was able to relax right up to the end, where I had to push a little bit more to make sure I stayed ahead. To take three wins in a row here at Getzen feels amazing, and I can’t thank the fans enough for their support. I’m looking forward to some nice winter training now to be ready for next season and try again to go for the title.”

Manuel Lettenbichler won the GetzenRodeo battle, but Billy Bolt won the FIM Hard Enduro war!
Manuel Lettenbichler won the GetzenRodeo battle, but Billy Bolt won the FIM Hard Enduro war!

Wade Young – P3

“That was a tough race, there was a lot going on. We were constantly battling all of the time. I knew to get third I had a good chance, but I still had to deliver. Mario was riding hard, and I couldn’t bridge it to him. But once I got to fourth, I knew as long as I held it, then I would be on the podium. Overall it’s been good. A win at HERO Challenge was brilliant too.”

Wade Young – 2021 GetzenRodeo

Alfredo Gomez – P6

“Today didn’t quite go to plan. I was riding well, but right from the beginning I had arm pump and wasn’t able to push like I wanted to. I struggled to find a good rhythm and was making too many mistakes everywhere. The whole year has been difficult for me, I wasn’t able to train properly at the start because I had an infection in my knee and was off the bike for about four months. Slowly as the season went on, I was able to find my speed and obviously the highlight was my win at home at Hixpania Hard Enduro. I’m happy for Billy and the team for winning the championship and we’ll look ahead to next year now, get some good training done over the winter and keep fighting.”

Alfredo Gomez – 2021 GetzenRodeo

Taddy Blazusiak – P9

“It’s good to get the championship finished and to be here racing at Getzen. The last few months have been tough for me with the injury to my shoulder and although I haven’t had much time on the bike, I’m glad I was able to come here to Germany and race. Today was ok, this morning went well, and I qualified safely but then I struggled a little this afternoon as things got really slippery out on track. I came in to swap my rear wheel early on and that cost me some time, but I felt better after that. Then, towards the end of the race, I crashed pretty badly. Luckily, I was ok, but the bike wasn’t too good, I flattened the front pipe, and I wasn’t able to continue. It was a good experience and amazing to be a part of this new world championship – the whole year has been great with some really cool races. Congratulations to Billy, he deserved it. I’ll look ahead to the indoors now and focus my training to be ready for the first round in December.”

Taddy Blazusiak – 2021 GetzenRodeo

2021 GetzenRodeo Results

Pos Rider Man Time
1 Manuel Lettenbichler KTM 1:29:20.433
2 Billy Bolt Husqvarna  1:30:16.852
3 Mario Roman Sherco 1:32:05.524
4 Wade Young Sherco 1:31:29.066
5 Jonny Walker Beta 1:31:52.822
6 Alfredo Gomez Husqvarna 1:32:37.808
7 Michael Walkner GASGAS 1:30:46.348
8 Teodor Kabakchiev Husqvarna 1:31:42.006
9 Sonny Goggia GASGAS 1:33:45.546
10 Travis Teasdale GASGAS 1:35:23.269
11 Dieter Rudolf KTM 1:34:58.325
12 Kevin Gallas GASGAS 1:39:36.585
13 Michele Bosi KTM 1:43:36.081
14 Taddy Blazusiak GASGAS 1:16:34.115
15 Dominik Olszowy KTM DNF

2021 Hard Enduro Standings

Pos Rider Man Points
1 Billy Bolt Husqvarna 104
2 Manuel Lettenbichler KTM 104
3 Wade Young Sherco 83
4 Mario Roman Sherco 76
5 Jonny Walker Beta 66
6 Alfredo Gomez Husqvarna 63
7 Michael Walkner GASGAS 46
8 Teodor Kabakchiev Husqvarna 36
9 Taddy Blazusiak GASGAS 29
10 Dominik Olszowy KTM 24

2022 FIM Hard Enduro World Championship Provisional Schedule

Round Event Country Date
Round 1 Minus 400 Israel April 5/6/7
Round 2 Xross Serbia May 19/20/21
Round 3 Red Bull Erzbergrodeo  Austria June 16/17/18/19
Round 4 Abestone Hard Enduro Italy July 8/9/10
Round 5 Red Bull Romaniacs Romania July 26/27/28/29/30
Round 6 Red Bull TKO USA August (date TBC)
Round 7 Red Bull Outliers Canada August (TBC, two weeks after TKO)
Round 8 HERO Challenge Poland September 10/11 (location TBC)
Round 9 Hixpania Hard Enduro Spain October 7/8/9

Source: MCNews.com.au

Yamaha recalls Bolt over oil leak issue

Yamaha Australia has recalled their 2020 – 2021 Bolt cruiser (xvs950) due to an issue with oil leaking from the crankcase.

The official government notice blames the manufacturing issue for the leak in the engine crankcase.

It says “oil may leak on to the road and come in contact with the rear tyre”.

“This could result in a loss of control of the vehicle,” the notice says.

“A loss of vehicle control increases the risk of an accident, which may cause injury or death to rider and/or passenger or other road users.

Owners of the 26 affected motorcycles can contact their local Yamaha Dealer to make an appointment to have their model inspected and fixed free of charge.

Here is the VIN list of affected bikes:

JYAVN0770MA000134 JYAVN0775MA000131
JYAVN0770MA000179 JYAVN0775MA000159
JYAVN0771MA000126 JYAVN0776MA000123
JYAVN0771MA000157 JYAVN0776MA000137
JYAVN0772MA000121 JYAVN0776MA000168
JYAVN0772MA000135 JYAVN0777MA000129
JYAVN0773MA000127 JYAVN0777MA000132
JYAVN0773MA000130 JYAVN0777MA000180
JYAVN0773MA000158 JYAVN0778MA000124
JYAVN0774MA000122 JYAVN0778MA000138
JYAVN0774MA000136 JYAVN0779MA000133
JYAVN0774MA000167 JYAVN0779MA000147
JYAVN0775MA000128 JYAVN0779MA000150
JYAVN077XMA000125

YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS ON RECALLS

Even though manufacturers and importers usually contact owners when a recall is issued, the bike may have been sold privately to a rider unknown to the company.

Therefore, Motorbike Writer publishes all motorcycle and scooter recalls as a service to all riders.

If you believe there is an endemic problem with your bike that should be recalled, contact the ACCC on 1300 302 502.

To check whether your motorcycle has been recalled, click on these sites:

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Aussie Oli Bayliss follows his father’s tracks

Oliver Bayliss, the 18-year-old son of Australia’s three-time World Superbike champion Troy, will follow in his father’s tyre tracks to the world stage next year.

He will race in the 2022 FIM Supersport World Championship for the Barni Racing aboard a Ducati Panigale V2.

Oli was born on 20 September 2003 in Monaco and started racing in the Australian Supersport series in 2017 at the age of 13.

The following year, he was alongside his dad and in 2020/21 he competed in the Australian Superbike Championship on a Ducati Panigale V4 R, picking up his first win at Hidden Valley.

Oli and Troy Bayliss father and son
Oli and Troy Bayliss

With the support of Ducati, the Bayliss family chose the Barni Racing Team alongside 20-year-old Luca Bernardi to take Oliver’s career a step further.

“I’ve finished my school program, which means I can now put my focus completely on racing motorbikes, training and only that,” Oli says.

His arrival in the WorldSSP Championship will come 20 years after Troy’s first World Superbike Championships with another twin-cylinder Ducati.

“Oli has been brought up around racing,” says his proud dad.

“I think the move to Barni Racing Team is a great opportunity, I hope he enjoys the V-twin as much as I did.”

Yamaha Bolt R-Spec

Barni Racing Team Principal Marco Barnabò says they have never had such a young team.

“At the beginning we won’t focus on results, but only on the growth of these two young riders,” he says.

Ducati Corse Sporting Director Paolo Ciabatti says the “Bayliss family and Ducati have always been linked very strongly”.

Ducati  launched the V2 Bayliss Replica special version to celebrate Troy’s first world title with Ducati 20 years ago.

Bayliss Panigale V2

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Husqvarna Norden 901 full reveal

2022 Husqvarna Norden 901

Whilst the Norden has KTM DNA forming its structure Husqvarna has really differentiated this model from its KTM 890 Adventure sibling. Norden really has that pukka rally look thanks to the front end treatment which incorporates a fairing, decent screen and fog-lights as standard.

Definitely got a bit of the Dakar style Rally look going on

And as far as farkles go, the Norden will launch with a huge range of accessories and riding apparel, many of which you can see in images throughout this piece.

A full range of accessories and apparel will be available for the Norden

If not for the plague we would have already ridden the machine in Europe, but alas we will have to wait until early next year before we can sling a leg over this newest kid on the adventure block. Australian dealers are expecting delivery of the Norden around March, 2022. Pricing has been set at a RRP of $23,250 or $25,050 Ride Away.

If not for COVID we would already have got up to these sorts of shenanigans on the Norden

The smooth and torquey 899 cc, 105 hp parallel twin engine that powers the Norden 901 is already well proven as a willing performer.

889 cc parallel-twin / 105 hp at 8000 rpm / 100 Nm of torque at 6500 rpm

Riding on a 21-inch front (90/90-21) and 18-inch (150/70-18) rear it is clear that off-road performance was high up the list of priorites and that is backed up by 252 mm of ground clearance and 220 mm of suspension travel.

Fully-adjustable WP APEX 43 mm forks

The WP APEX open-cartridge 43mm forks are fully-adjustable while the rear shock, which is PDS on this model, is adjustable for rebound damping and has hydraulic assisted pre-load.  A steering damper is also standard.

A PDS (no linkage) shock is used on the Norden

Switchable Bosch Cornering ABS with Street and Offroad modes is standard. Husqvarna Motorcycles’ lean-angle sensitive Cornering Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC) is also there to assist, with particular attention having been paid to its levels of off-road assistance.

2022 Husqvarna Norden 901

The five-inch TFT display adapts to changes in environmental light. All ride mode and ABS settings are immediately visible on the screen. Additionally, a configurable shift light blinks to indicate when to change gear. With the Ride Husqvarna Motorcycles App, a smartphone can be connected to the bike through the optional Connectivity Unit for turn-by-turn navigation, to accept phone calls and listen to music.

An integrated 12 V connector allows for easy charging of handheld devices mounted to the handlebars or on the mounting point above the main dashboard.

Norden 901 offers three selectable ride modes as standard (Street, Rain, Offroad) and an optional Explorer mode has nine different traction control settings.

2022 Husqvarna Norden 901

A quick-shifter facilitates clutchless changes up and down the six-speed gearbox while a Power Assist Slipper Clutch (PASC) maintains rear wheel composure under sudden deceleration.

2022 Husqvarna Norden 901

Husqvarna promises ranges of up to 400 kilometres from the 19-litre fuel cell but previous experience with this engine suggests that 300 km is a little more real world. The main volume of the fuel is stored ahead of the riders knees to help keep the weight down low.

2022 Husqvarna Norden 901

The two-piece seat is adjustable in height between 854 and 874 mm. An optional lowering kit can push that down to a lower 832 mm and Husqvarna claim that their lowering kit does not affect handling dynamics. although it is hard to see that there is not a trade off in ground clearance and/or suspension travel.

Seat height is quite reasonable for a machine with such massive ground clearance and suspension travel

Norden 901 features a state-of-the-art Husqvarna branded J.Juan braking system. Up front, four-piston, radially mounted brake calipers and two 320 mm brake discs provide plenty of stopping power.  The rear brake features a 260 mm brake disc actuated by a two-piston floating caliper.

Definitely got a bit of the Dakar style Rally look going on

We can’t wait to get our hands on one, and I am sure plenty of Aussies will be putting deposits down on the first shipment well ahead of that expected March delivery date.

2022 Husqvarna Norden 901

2022 Husqvarna Norden 901 Specifications

  • Engine 899 cc, four-stroke, DOHC parallel twin
  • Bore/stroke 90,7/68,8 mm
  • Power 77 kW (105 hp) @ 8000 rpm
  • Torque 100 Nm @ 6500 rpm
  • Compression ratio 13.5:1
  • Starter/battery Electric starter/12V 10Ah
  • Transmission 6 gears
  • Fuel system DKK Dellorto (Throttle body 46mm)
  • Control 4 valves per cylinder / DOHC
  • Lubrication Pressure lubrication with 2 oil pumps
  • Primary drive 39:75
  • Final drive 16:45
  • Cooling Liquid cooled with water/oil heat exchanger
  • Clutch Cable operated PASC Slipper clutch
  • Engine management/ignition Bosch EMS with RBW
  • Traction control MTC (lean angle sensitive, 3-Mode, disengageable, Explorer mode optional)
  • Frame Chromium-Molybdenum-Steel frame using the engine as stressed element, powder coated
  • Subframe Chromium-Molybdenum-Steel trellis, powder coated
  • Handlebar Aluminium, tapered, Ø 28/22 mm
  • Front suspension WP APEX-USD Ø 43 mm
  • Front adjustability Compression, Rebound, Preload
  • Rear suspension WP APEX-Monoshock
  • Rear adjustability Rebound, Preload
  • Suspension travel front/rear 220 mm / 215 mm
  • Front brake 2 x 4-piston caliper, radially mounted, brake disc Ø 320 mm
  • Rear brake 2 piston floating caliper, brake disc Ø 260 mm
  • ABS Bosch 9.1 MP (incl. Cornering-ABS and Offroad mode, disengageable)
  • Wheels front/rear Tubeless Aluminium spoked wheels 2.50 x 21”; 4.50 x 18”
  • Tyres front/rear Pirelli Scorpion Rallly STR 90/90 R 21; 150/70 R 18
  • Chain X-Ring 520
  • Silencer Stainless steel primary and secondary silencer
  • Steering head angle 64,2°
  • Triple clamp offset 30 mm
  • Trail 106,9 mm
  • Wheel base 1,513 mm ± 15 mm
  • Ground clearance 252 mm
  • Seat height 854 / 874 mm
  • Tank capacity (approx.) 19.0 litres
  • Weight without fuel (approx.) 204 kg
  • ABS Modes Street (cornering sensitive) / Offroad
  • Ride Modes Street, Rain, Offroad (Explorer – optional)
  • Engine Management Systems MTC, MSR, Easy Shift
  • Cruise Control Original Equipment
  • Connectivity Turn-by-Turn Navigation, Call-In, Music Selection
  • Technical Accessories Connectivity Unit, TPMS, heated grips & seats
  • Available March 2022
  • Priced at $25,050 Ride Away

2022 Husqvarna Norden 901
2022 Husqvarna Norden 901
2022 Husqvarna Norden 901
2022 Husqvarna Norden 901
2022 Husqvarna Norden 901
2022 Husqvarna Norden 901
2022 Husqvarna Norden 901
2022 Husqvarna Norden 901
2022 Husqvarna Norden 901

Source: MCNews.com.au

2022 BMW K 1600 Six-Cylinder Touring Line Preview

The 2022 BMW K 1600 B will start at $22,545.

The 2022 BMW K 1600 B will start at $22,545. (BMW/)

BMW Motorrad has revealed updates to its line of luxury touring motorcycles, including the K 1600 GT, K 1600 GTL, K 1600 B, and K 1600 Grand America. The revisions include engine updates that improve performance while meeting Euro 5 standards along with a list of additional standard amenities. These streetbikes will hit the market in February 2022 with starting MSRPs listed below.

K 1600 B: $22,545

K 1600 GT: $23,895

K 1600 GTL: $26,895

K 1600 Grand America: $27,745

Related: Why Commuting On A 2018 BMW K1600B Grand America Makes Sense

Each K 1600 model gets a massive 10.25-inch TFT instrument display.

Each K 1600 model gets a massive 10.25-inch TFT instrument display. (BMW/)

The six-cylinder engine retains its 1,649cc displacement, but now makes use of a new BMW engine control system, two knock sensors, and four total lambda probes. The knock sensors help to improve ignition timing and the additional lambda probes provide more detailed information to the engine control unit to optimize the air-fuel mixture. These changes result in a more emissions-efficient engine and brings it into compliance with Euro 5 regulations. They also allow the bike to run efficiently on fuel of various octane ratings.

Engine revisions bring the K 1600 line into Euro 5 compliance.

Engine revisions bring the K 1600 line into Euro 5 compliance. (BMW/)

BMW also improved practical performance by tuning the mill to reach its peak 160 hp at 6,750 rpm rather than at 7,750 rpm, where the previous iteration of the engine topped out in terms of power. There’s more pull than before too, with 133 pound-feet available at 5,250 rpm, up from 129 pound-feet.

The 2022 BMW K 1600 Grand America will start at $27,745.

The 2022 BMW K 1600 Grand America will start at $27,745. (BMW/)

All models will now come with a new engine drag control system, which limits rear-wheel slip by opening the throttle valves during downshifts. The system calibrates its interventions by monitoring the front and rear wheels and using heel angle information from the new six-axis IMU to calculate available traction at the back. When in Rain or Road ride modes, the drag control is at its maximum setting, but intervention is damped when riders switch to Dynamic mode.

Related: BMW K1600GT | Doin’ Time

The K 1600 lineup gets more standard amenities than ever before.

The K 1600 lineup gets more standard amenities than ever before. (BMW/)

The new IMU also informs BMW’s latest Dynamic ESA system, standard on all four models. Riders can easily switch suspension settings at the handlebar to meet riding conditions. The system also comes with automatic load compensation as a standard feature.

Information for all the electronic systems can be accessed on the new 10.25-inch color TFT instrument display. There are numerous screen options available to choose from, including viewing a fully integrated navigation map. The system resists reflection and has a fingerprint-resistant coating along with a durable, weather-resistant design. It’s Bluetooth compatible and ready to pair with the BMW Motorrad Connected app. There is a special compartment built in above the TFT display for a rider’s smartphone which is splash proof and electronically ventilated.

2022 BMW K 1600 Grand America.

2022 BMW K 1600 Grand America. (BMW/)

Another new element is the 2.0 audio system, which boasts features like bass and treble boost, optimization for in-helmet listening, and standard SiriusXM satellite radio with a one-year subscription.

BMW has also fit each model with new LED headlights that track through corners thanks to improved adaptive headlight functionality. Additional lighting improvements include new “Welcome” and “Goodbye” functions that initiate when the ignition is turned on or off. There is now a “Follow Me Home” function that allows the rider to keep the lights on after the ignition is switched off.

The engine revisions also result in a more practically powerful engine.

The engine revisions also result in a more practically powerful engine. (BMW/)

Other standard amenities include hill start control, reverse assistance, dynamic cruise control, steering stabilizer, tire pressure monitor, heated grips and seat, traction control, ABS Pro, a 12-volt charging socket, integrated side cases, and an adjustable windscreen.

There are a range of upgrades available for each model, and three colorways to choose from for each model variant.

Each model gets the latest, greatest Dynamic ESA setup.

Each model gets the latest, greatest Dynamic ESA setup. (BMW/)

2022 BMW K 1600 Line Technical Specifications and Price

Price: $22,545 (K 1600 B)/$23,895 (K 1600 GT)/$26,895 (K 1600 GTL)/$27,745 (K 1600 Grand America)
Engine: 1,649cc, liquid-cooled inline six-cylinder; 16 valves
Bore x Stroke: 72.0 x 67.5mm
Compression Ratio: 12.2:1
Fuel Delivery: EFI
Clutch: Wet, multi-disc w/ slip/assist
Transmission/Final Drive: 6-speed/shaft
Frame: Die-cast
Front Suspension: Central spring strut, fully adjustable w/ Dynamic ESA; 4.5 in. travel
Rear Suspension: Central spring strut, fully adjustable w/ Dynamic ESA; 5.3 in. travel
Front Brake: 4-piston calipers, dual 320mm discs w/ BMW Motorrad Partial Integral ABS
Rear Brake: 2-piston caliper, 320mm disc w/ BMW Motorrad Partial Integral ABS
Wheels, Front/Rear: Light alloy cast wheels; 17 x 3.50 in. / 17 x 6.0 in.
Tires, Front/Rear: 120/70-17 / 190/55-17
Rake/Trail: 27.8°/4.2 in.
Wheelbase: 63.7 in.
Seat Height: 29.5 in. (B, GTL, Grand America)/31.9–32.7 in. (GT)
Fuel Capacity: 7.0 gal.
Claimed Curb Weight: 758 lb. (B)/756 lb. (GT)/789 lb. (GTL)/816 lb. (Grand America)
Available: February 2022
Contact: bmwmotorrad.com

Riders can select up to 18 different functions using the four buttons built into the left-side fairing.

Riders can select up to 18 different functions using the four buttons built into the left-side fairing. (BMW/)

The 2022 BMW K 1600 GTL will start at $26,895.

The 2022 BMW K 1600 GTL will start at $26,895. (BMW/)

Each model gets updated LED headlights with adaptive cornering function.

Each model gets updated LED headlights with adaptive cornering function. (BMW/)

Underbike lights are an optional upgrade.

Underbike lights are an optional upgrade. (BMW/)

Three different colorway options are available for each K 1600 variant.

Three different colorway options are available for each K 1600 variant. (BMW/)

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com