DesmoSport Ducati extends commitment to ASBK

DesmoSport Ducati 2022 plans

DesmoSport Ducati today expressed the team’s ongoing commitment to the Australian Superbike Championship but with the recent announcement that Oli Bayliss will race in World Supersport next year, the Queensland based team is at this stage planning to run only one Superbike rider in 2022.  The name of that rider is expected to be announced soon.

DesmoSport Ducati – Image Half Light
Team co-owner, Ben Henry

Troy and I have been talking a lot about 2022. We both believed quite early in the year that Oli needed to continue his progression, and we’re both committed to our goals and plans for DesmoSport Ducati and so we have decided to go back to one Panigale V4 R superbike rider next year. We’re actively looking for partnerships for next year and beyond as we cement our plans. I don’t think that Troy will be in Australia as much as usual next year, but he’s already committed to continuing his role within the team, even when that’s from Oli’s side in Europe. I’m excited for what the rest of 2021 holds, and I can’t wait to race a full season again.”

Ben Henry – DesmoSport Ducati – Image Half Light
Team co-owner, Troy Bayliss

I’m really happy to be able to confirm our intentions for 2022 both with DesmoSport Ducati and with Oli. The ASBK has given us an incredible breeding ground for Oli over the years to hone his skills and build his confidence, and we all believe the next step for Oli to continue to progress is to race on tracks through Europe. Over recent years Ducati have been paying attention to Oli, offering advice as he advanced, and his recent form has meant that the very same people that gave me a chance all those years ago, are now lending support to Oli as he rides a Ducati Panigale V2 in World Supersport. In saying that, I love what Ben and I have built in DesmoSport Ducati, and we’re still just as committed to the team now as ever. This leaves us in the position of seeking support for both the team in Australia, and for Oli internationally. We’re motivated to win ASBK championships, we’re looking to finish 2021 strong and head out of two shortened seasons into 2022 with some momentum.”

DesmoSport Ducati pits at Winton earlier this year – Image RbMotoLens

DesmoSport Ducati now finalises preparations for the recently announced final round of the 2021 ASBK Championship at The Bend Motorsports Park on December 3-5. With some special guests slated to race, it’s sure to be an incredible finish to the season.

Source: MCNews.com.au

2022 Royal Enfield Himalayan First Look Preview

The 2022 Royal Enfield Himalayan in new Granite Black colorway.

The 2022 Royal Enfield Himalayan in new Granite Black colorway. (Royal Enfield/)

The affordable 2022 Royal Enfield Himalayan ($5,299) gets a few thoughtful updates that will make it easier for streetbike riders to find their way in comfort. The adventure bike will be available in North America starting next month in either Granite Black, Mirage Silver, Pine Green, Rock Red, Lake Blue, or Gravel Grey colorways.

Related: 2020 Royal Enfield Himalayan MC Commute

The 2022 Himalayan will start at $5,299.

The 2022 Himalayan will start at $5,299. (Royal Enfield/)

The major enhancement for 2022 comes by way of a new turn-by-turn navigation element integrated into the instrument cluster. The Royal Enfield Tripper navigation pairs to your smartphone using the Royal Enfield app and uses Google Maps to provide simple, easy-to-follow directions to your destination.

Revised ergonomics promise a more comfortable ride.

Revised ergonomics promise a more comfortable ride. (Royal Enfield/)

Additionally, the bike comes with a new seat cushion for enhanced comfort during long rides. A new windscreen provides better protection from buffeting and the front rack is slimmed down for a more comfy cockpit. Out back, Royal Enfield made the rear rack larger and set it lower so it’s easier to strap down your belongings and swing a leg over.

Related: Royal Enfield Himalayan Review

The 2022 Himalayan will be powered by the same 411cc single as last year’s model.

The 2022 Himalayan will be powered by the same 411cc single as last year’s model. (Royal Enfield/)

The bike remains powered by its 411cc single engine capable of 24.3 hp at 6,500 rpm and 23.6 pound-feet torque in the 4,000 to 4,500 range. It’s suspended by a 41mm telescopic fork and monoshock with linkage, is capable of carrying 4 gallons of fuel, and features dual-channel ABS which can be switched off at the rear.

The 2022 Royal Enfield Himalayan in Pine Green colorway.

The 2022 Royal Enfield Himalayan in Pine Green colorway. (Royal Enfield/)

2022 Royal Enfield Himalayan Specifications and Price

Price: $5,299
Engine: 411cc, SOHC, air-cooled single
Bore x Stroke: 78.0 x 86.0mm
Compression Ratio: 9.5:1
Fuel Delivery: EFI
Clutch: Wet, multi-disc
Transmission/Final Drive: 5-speed/chain
Frame: Half-duplex split cradle
Front Suspension: 41mm telescopic fork; 7.8 in. travel
Rear Suspension: Monoshock w/ linkage; 7.1 in. travel
Front Brake: 2-piston floating caliper, 300mm disc, dual-channel ABS
Rear Brake: 1-piston floating caliper, 240mm disc, dual-channel ABS
Wheels, Front/Rear: 21 in. / 17 in.
Tires, Front/Rear: 90/90-21 / 120/90-17
Wheelbase: 58.0 in.
Seat Height: 31.5 in.
Fuel Capacity: 4.0 gal.
Claimed Curb Weight: 439 lb
Available: November 2021
Contact: royalenfield.com

The 2022 Royal Enfield Himalayan in Mirage Silver colorway.

The 2022 Royal Enfield Himalayan in Mirage Silver colorway. (Royal Enfield/)

Smaller racks on the front for more legroom and a larger rack on the back for easier loading.

Smaller racks on the front for more legroom and a larger rack on the back for easier loading. (Royal Enfield/)

A no-nonsense adventure machine.

A no-nonsense adventure machine. (Royal Enfield/)

The 2022 Himalayan will feature a Tripper navigation pod that links to your smartphone and provides turn-by-turn navigation.

The 2022 Himalayan will feature a Tripper navigation pod that links to your smartphone and provides turn-by-turn navigation. (Royal Enfield/)

A simple way to know where you’re going.

A simple way to know where you’re going. (Royal Enfield/)

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

2022 Aprilia Tuareg 660 | First Look Review

2022 Aprilia Tuareg 660 review
2022 Aprilia Tuareg 660 in Indaco Tagelmust (MSRP $12,599)

The 2022 Aprilia Tuareg 660 is one of the most eagerly anticipated middleweight adventure bikes since the Yamaha Ténéré 700 was introduced last year. Aprilia has announced that the bike will be available in the U.S. in February 2022, and with an MSRP of $11,999.

Aprilia will begin taking pre-orders for U.S. customers on November 10, 2021, and delivery priority will be given to those who make reservations. Customers can book their ideal configuration of the Tuareg 660, including factory options and upgrades, and select their dealer of choice at storeusa.aprilia.com.

2022 Aprilia Tuareg 660 review
2022 Aprilia Tuareg 660 in Acid Gold (MSRP $11,999)

Just as the Ténéré 700 is based on Yamaha’s MT-07 streetbike, the Tuareg 660’s engine is adapted from Aprilia’s RS 660 sportbike. The engine is a liquid-cooled, 659cc parallel-Twin with DOHC and 4 valves per cylinder. On the RS 660, Aprilia claims 100 horsepower and 49.4 lb-ft of torque, but for the Tuareg 660 Aprilia claims 80 horsepower and 51.6 lb-ft of torque, presumably tuned for a broad spread of torque across the rev range.

For off-road duty, Aprilia says the Tuareg 660 gets a redesigned high-clearance oil sump, an easy-access air filter, and a high-mount exhaust. The engine is carried in a lightweight tubular-steel trellis frame and wheelbase is 59 inches. Aprilia claims a 449-pound wet weight and 275 miles of range from the 4.75-gallon fuel tank.

2022 Aprilia Tuareg 660 review
2022 Aprilia Tuareg 660 in Martian Red (MSRP $11,999)

As with other bikes in Aprilia’s lineup, the Tuareg 660 gets the Aprilia Performance Ride Control (APRC) electronics suite with selectable engine maps and settings for traction control and engine braking. ABS can be switched off entirely or just at the rear wheel. Standard equipment also includes cruise control and a 5-inch TFT color display with Bluetooth connectivity and navigation via the Aprilia MIA app. The bike also has full LED lighting

The Tuareg 660 has fully adjustable suspension with 9.4 inches of front/rear travel, with a 43mm inverted fork and a rear shock with progressive linkage. There’s 9.5 ground clearance for off-road riding, but the 33.8-inch saddle has reduced center arch to help riders get their feet on the ground.

2022 Aprilia Tuareg 660 review
2022 Aprilia Tuareg 660 in Indaco Tagelmust (MSRP $12,599)

For maximize off-road capability, the Tuareg 660 rolls on 21-inch front/18-inch rear spoked wheels with tubeless tires.

The 2022 Aprilia Tuareg 660 will be priced at $11,999 for Acid Gold and Martian Red, and at $12,599 for Indaco Tagelmust (red/white/blue). For more information or to find an Aprilia dealer near you, visit aprilia.com.

We’ll get a first ride on the Tuareg 660 soon, so stay tuned for full technical specs and riding impressions.

The post 2022 Aprilia Tuareg 660 | First Look Review first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

Eddie Braun: Ep. 24 Rider Magazine Insider Podcast

Episode 24 Eddie Braun Stuntman Rider Magazine Insider Podcast

Our guest on Episode 24 of the Rider Magazine Insider Podcast is Eddie Braun, a Hollywood stuntman who has worked on hundreds of TV shows and feature films, including The Avengers, Transformers, and the Rush Hour trilogy. In 2016, Braun successfully flew a steam-powered rocket over Snake River Canyon, completing the ultimate stunt that defeated legendary daredevil Evel Knievel in 1974. Braun did the stunt in “Evel Spirit,” a rocket rebuilt using engineer Bob Truax’s original design for Knievel’s SkyCycle, with the only change being a modification to the parachute. Braun’s 10,000-horsepower rocket reached 439 mph in 3 seconds and hit 8 Gs, soaring 3,000 feet across the canyon. Braun’s epic journey was chronicled in “Stuntman,” a documentary executive produced by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Dany Garcia, featuring a never-before released clip of rock guitarist Slash playing “Rocket Man” in support of Eddie. “Stuntman” is available on Disney+.

You can listen to Episode 24 on iTunesSpotify, and SoundCloud, or via the Rider Magazine Insider webpage. Please subscribe, leave us a 5-star rating, and tell your friends! Scroll down for a list of previous episodes.

Episode 24 Eddie Braun Stuntman Rider Magazine Insider Podcast
Eddie Braun’s “Evel Spirit” 10,000-horsepower steam-powered rocket hit 439 mph in 3 seconds and pulled 8 Gs.
Episode 24 Eddie Braun Stuntman Rider Magazine Insider Podcast
Braun takes a moment to himself after successfully flying the “Evel Spirit” rocket over Snake River Canyon.
Episode 24 Eddie Braun Stuntman Rider Magazine Insider Podcast
Just another day at the office for veteran Hollywood stuntman Eddie Braun.

Visit the Rider Magazine Insider podcast webpage to check out previous episodes:

The post Eddie Braun: Ep. 24 Rider Magazine Insider Podcast first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

Mir and Petrucci’s crash in photos: sportsmanship prevails

The incident thankfully saw both riders get straight up onto their feet, as Mir and Petrucci embraced in a fantastic show of sportsmanship. The number 36 tucked the front while up the inside of Petrucci on Lap 3, seeing both of their races end early. Mir’s title defence was over before the Emilia-Romagna GP had begun, but 2020’s king was forced to concede his crown to new king Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) after a disappointing afternoon.

Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here

Brembo to title sponsor Algarve Grand Prix

Brembo has become a byword for excellence in braking systems and is a vital supplier to the FIM MotoGP™ World Championship, continuing to add more and more success to a decorated history within the sport. Over 40 premier class Championships, bikes fitted with Brembo braking systems have won 32 rider titles, 33 Constructors’ Championships and more than 500 races. 2021 marks the sixth season in a row that Brembo has supplied the premier class of Grand Prix racing, and the marque also has an important presence in Moto2™, Moto3™ and the FIM Enel MotoE™ World Cup.

Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here

Ducati chasing Constructor crown to end 2021 on a high

That rider is, of course, Enea Bastianini (Avintia Esponsorama). The 2020 Moto2™ World Champion has finished P6, P3, P6, P3 in his last four races – on older Desmosedici equipment – to now take the lead in the race to become 2021 Rookie of the Year against Martin. Bestia’s second podium of 2021 was another sign that he’s going to be a regular frontrunner next season in the premier class, adding to Ducati’s electrifying arsenal of riders.

Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here

Oli Bayliss confirmed to ride World Supersport with Ducati

Oli Bayliss heading to Europe

In a move we first intimated at during a wide ranging interview with Oli, Troy and Kim back in July, Ducati has now officially confirmed that Oli Bayliss will contest the new look World Supersport Championship in 2022.

Oli Bayliss broke through for his first Australian Superbike race and round win in Darwin back in June – Image Rb MotoLens

Oli recently turned 18 after breaking through for his maiden Superbike victory in the Australian Superbike Championship at Darwin earlier this year on the DesmoSport Ducati Panigale V4 R.

A young Oli Bayliss on the podium with parents Troy and Kim at Portimao in 2008 – Image 2snap

Ducati recently released a 21st anniversary special edition V2 Panigale to commemorate the first of Troy’s three World Superbike Championship victories and it is on just such a machine that Oli will contest the new look World Supersport Championship with in 2022.

Ducati Panigale V2 Troy Bayliss 20th Anniversary Edition

Oli will be aiming to get another Superbike win under his belt before he departs our shores when he rides the DesmoSport Ducati Panigale V4 R at the final round of the 2021 Australian Superbike Championship that will be staged over the first week in December at South Australia’s The Bend Motorsports Park. He will have his work cut out for him though as MotoGP star Jack Miller is rumoured to be racing the ASBK event along with his good mate and top FIM Endurance World Championship rider Josh Hook…

Oli Bayliss in action on the DesmoSport Ducati Panigale V4 R at Hidden Valley earlier this year where he took his first Superbike victory – Image Half Light

The arrival in Europe of the youngest of the Bayliss clan will be eagerly watched, but Oli has his feet firmly on the ground, is very well liked amongst his peers here in Australia, and I am sure will prove just as popular as his dad was, and still is!

Oli will join Barni Racing’s new World Supersport effort as the long running Superbike team expands into the new look Supersport Championship. Oli’s team-mate will be 20-year-old Luca Bernardi.

Up until now the Supersport class has been bound by regulations to incorporate 600cc four-cylinder, 675cc three-cylinder and 750cc twin-cylinder machines.  As the market has so significantly changed in recent years and moved away from the motorcycles that did make up the category, 2022 will see the Supersport class open up to include 955 cc twins and 765 cc triples.

Source: MCNews.com.au

France’s H2 Motronics Set to Reveal Hydrogen-Powered Racebike in 2022

H2 Motoronics is a French company that specializes in electronics and mechatronics projects; the most recent one could be their most ambitious yet. RideApart has reported that the company has partnered with the Tecmas Racing Team to develop a motorcycle dubbed the H2 Koncept (H2K). Why is this such a big deal? It’s because the H2K will be powered by hydrogen, and it’s being designed for the racetrack.

The H2K project began in 2019 when Emmanuel Esnault became the CEO of the Texys Group, H2 Motronics’ parent company. Esnault is no stranger to building high-performance machines. Before joining the Texys Group, he worked with Renault Sports Technologies, McLaren Applied Technologies and even spent 5 seasons with McLaren’s Formula 1 team.

“Like many, we were focused on all-electric, especially for motorcycles,” explained Texys Group President Philippe Leuwers. “From there, the company met officials from the Vehicle of the Future Pole (PVF). We discussed a lot and arrived at the yields of hydrogen.”

Like we mentioned above, the bike is being developed with help from the Tecmas Racing Team. For those of you who are unaware, Tecmas is one of France’s most successful racing teams, having won championships across various classes. RideApart mentions that they jointly developed a race chassis, a fuel cell, a compressor, a humidifier, and control units. 

The company claims that the H2K will weigh about 30% less than similar fully-electric race bikes (perhaps the Energica Ego) while delivering Moto3 levels of performance with a top speed of 237kph (around 147mph). The bike will carry 1kg of hydrogen, and the team estimates it should be good enough for 44km (27.3 miles) of racing. 

The H2 Motoronics website is currently filled with digital renders of the H2K, but the bike is set to debut in Spring 2022. If the motorcycle proves successful, the Texys Group plans to use the powerplant on other vehicles — two- and four-wheeled — in urban, recreational, and even marine applications.

We’re yet to see a hydrogen-powered two-wheeler that’s been widely accepted by the masses, but it’s a technology that even more prominent manufacturers are experimenting with. If the H2K delivers impressive performance while being notably lighter than its electric counterparts, it could act as a shining example of what’s possible with hydrogen power. 

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

TVS to Launch New Subsidiary for EVs

TVS Motor Co. is one of India’s largest two-wheeler manufacturers, and its current portfolio comprises mainly small-capacity scooters and motorcycles. It also produces the BMW G 310 R and G 310 GS. The company has recently invested in EVs, and the first product to emerge from this effort was the TVS iQube electric scooter. Now, Business Standard has reported that the two-wheeler giant is working on launching a subsidiary that will focus on electric vehicles.

Online reports mention that TVS announced in July 2021 that it would be investing $133 million towards developing new all-electric scooter and motorcycle platforms. It said that a total of 6 new models would be launched over the next 2 years. The company also acquired Ego Movement, an e-bike manufacturer from Switzerland, and we’re curious to see what kind of products will come of this.

In a conversation with Autocar Professional, Sudarshan Venu, TVS’s joint MD, said, “We are committed to electrification. We will invest and launch a range of products to really show our commitment and also seek to play a leading role. In two-wheelers (premium segment, scooters) and also three-wheelers (passenger, cargo), we will have the range. Around 500 members of our talented team of engineers are working on this.” 

He went on to mention — “With some countries dominating the supply chain, this is an opportunity not to be dependent. We need to plan the electric transition the way it is to our advantage. We need to work and make it happen. Localized supply and renewable power are the keys to ensure the benefit of EV is there for the whole ecosystem,” Venu said.

TVS is also looking to invest an additional $33 million into the new subsidiary. Everything from the conceptualization of the EVs to the development and production will be handled solely by the new subsidiary.

Over the last few years, India has seen a steady rise in promising EV manufacturers. Apart from startups like Ather and Ultraviolette, the big-name manufacturers have also started to produce notable electric scooters and motorcycles. We’re looking forward to what the new TVS subsidiary has in store.

Source: Business Standard, Autocar Professional

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com