Many had feared that Euro5 emissions and noise legislation might sound the death nell of BMW’s awesome K series six-cylinder platform but BMW confirmed today that they have made the necessary changes in order to achieve the certification that guarantees the dynasty will continue.
Not only is the engine now burning cleaner than ever but it has actually scored a performance boost along the way. An extra 5 Nm of torque is certainly better than going backwards and while peak power remains the same at 160 horsepower, it is reached 1000 rpm sooner than before.180 Nm at 5250 rpm and 160 hp at 6750 rpm are the quoted figures.
An updated ECU, two knock sensors and an extra two broadband lambda probes helped get the 1649 cc straight six over the EU-5 line. Engine drag torque control (MSR) is now across the line-up for 2022 and the engine can now better cope with lower octane fuels when required.
The K bike line-up includes the surprisingly agile K 1600 GT, the K 1600 GTL full dress tourer, the K 1600 B is the bagger of the brood while the K 1600 Grand America is big daddy. The most affordable model in the range is also our pick of the litter, the K 1600 GT is priced from $41,120 +ORC.
The ‘Next Generation’ Dynamic ESA electronic suspension has been updated and takes its cues from a new six-axis sensor along with two displacement sensors at the front and rear of the motorcycle.
The headlight is now all LED but the big news on the specification front for me is the new 10.25-inch TFT colour display with integrated map navigation and connectivity as standard across the four model K 1600 range. It is a high-definition 1920 x 720 pixel screen covered by hardened glass.
An upgraded audio system becomes available on the GTL and Grand America but we are unsure as yet if this new Audio System 2.0 will be standard or optional in the Australian market.
A smartphone can be safely accommodated in a splash-proof andelectrically ventilated storage compartment above the TFT display, and its battery can be kept topped up via a USB-C connection.
New Option 719 variants are added to the range with a ‘Midnight’ option on the K 1600 B and Grand America models in which a Meteoric Dust II metallic with the “Galaxy” theme is depicted using a water transfer printing method.
The new K 1600 range is scheduled to arrive in Australia in the first quarter of 2022.
K 1600 GT: $41,120 +OR Australian Standard Specification
Overnight Ducati pulled the covers off their new range topping Multistrada, the V4 Pikes Peak. The new model is significantly redesigned for optimum performance on the tarmac and is the most sporting Multistrada Ducati have ever made.
The Pikes Peak version takes the technological tour de force that is a Multistrada V4 S and swaps the adventure spec’ 19-inch front rim for a more sporting 17-inch Marchesini forged aluminium rim, while at the rear a single-sided swing-arm also helps differentiate the Pikes Peak from its siblings.
The Pikes Peak edition also scores lashings of carbon-fibre along with an Akrapovic titanium muffler.
The 17-inch Marchesini rims are 2.7 kg lighter and the Ohlins Smart EC 2.0 semi-active suspension is used instead of the Marzocchi semi-active suspension used on the S model.
This is the first time that Ohlins suspension has been used on a Multistrada and the system on the Pikes Peak is the same as that used on Panigale V4 S and Streetfighter V4 s and shares their events based mapping suited to more aggressive riding. The Pikes Peak though is equipped with a much more generous 170 mm of wheel travel.
The aluminium monocoque frame has also been changed for more sporting ability with different rake, trail and wheelbase measurements aimed to maximise tarmac performance. The biggest change is the steering angle which is now 25.75-degrees (+ 1.25-degrees vs Multistrada V4).
The riding position has also been changed for more sporting intent for better control at major lean angles while the bars are lower, narrower and more curved in their bend. The pegs are higher and situated further rearward.
The same M50 Brembo Stylema Monoblocs as fitted to the Multistrada V4 S grace the front of the machine and clamp 330 mm disc rotors but the pads used are the same as the Panigale V4. Bosch provide their 10.3ME Cornering ABS and the brakes are linked front to rear however rear ABS can be disabled.
The smooth 170 horsepower V4 is unchanged from the other models but a Race Riding Mode is added that sharpens its response further and the rev-limiter intervenes in a more gradual fashion.
In addition to the introduction of the Race Riding Mode, Ducati Wheelie Control on the Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak has an updated strategy that Ducati claims offers even better response and more accurate control during dynamic riding.
The quick-shifter on the S model is the best I have ever used and Ducati promise that the Pikes Peak can be down-shifted even more aggressively.
The Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak inherits the latest generation and sophisticated electronic package of the Multistrada V4 S, which includes, among others, radar technology both at the front and at the rear, which offers Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Blind Spot Detection (BSD) functionality.
The 6.5” TFT dashboard, also available as standard on the Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak, allows the user to view the map navigator thanks to the advanced Ducati Connect system, which allows to mirror the rider’s smartphone. The only thing really missing from the standard specification is tyre pressure monitoring which remains an optional extra.
Styling wise the livery of the Pipes Peak Multistrada is inspired by the Desmosedici MotoGP machine, the lower screen is smoked and the seat is a two-tone black and red embossed with the V4 logo while the beak is adorned with a Ducati Corse badge.
The 2022 Ducati Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak is scheduled to arrive in Australia during the second-quarter of 2022 and will be priced at $44,500 Ride Away.
2022 Ducati Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak Main Points
Ducati V4 Granturismo 1158 cc engine with the valve play check at 60,000 km intervals
Aluminium monocoque frame, steel tubes subframe and aluminium single-sided swing arm
Carbon fibre details
Electronic semi-active Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 with “event based” system 170 – 170 mm travel
17” Marchesini forged aluminum wheels with 120/70 ZR17 front and 190/55 ZR17 rear Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres
Bosch-Brembo ABS 10.3ME Cornering braking system
330 mm front brake discs with Brembo Stylema 4-piston radial calipers
Full LED headlight with DRL system and Ducati Cornering Lights (DCL)
Instrument panel with 6,5” full colour TFT screen
Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) Bosch
Power Mode
4 Riding Modes (Race, Sport, Touring, Urban)
Radar technology front and rear (Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Spot Detection)
Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC)
Ducati Traction Control (DTC)
Hands Free ignition
Ducati Connect system with smartphone, music, and navigator app
All four models have received updates for 2022, starting with revisions to the engine to meet Euro 5 regulations, including updated BMS engine control, two knock sensors, and two additional lambda probes. BMW says the six-cylinder engine still makes 160 peak horsepower, though it now arrives at 6,750 rpm, 1,000 rpm earlier than before. Peak torque has increased to 133 lb-ft, up from 129, at 5,250 rpm.
Standard equipment on all K 1600 models now includes engine drag torque control (MSR), which compares the rotational speeds of the front and rear wheels in the same way as the standard Dynamic Traction Control and thus determines the slip or traction capacity at the rear wheel, with input on lean angle from the new 6-axis IMU. The level of intervention depends on riding mode (Dynamic, Road, or Rain).
Also new on all K 1600 models is BMW Motorrad Dynamic ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment) “Next Generation,” with revised calibration and new automatic load level compensation. The semi-active suspension adjusts damping based on conditions based on input from front and rear sensors and the new IMU.
Also new are “welcome,” “good-bye”, and “follow me home” light functions. When the ignition is switched on, a “welcome” light function is activated. The headlight and taillight remain on for a short time and then fade to the waiting state before the engine starts. After switching off the ignition, the front and rear lights are also automatically activated briefly for the “good-bye” function which illuminates the area around the motorcycle. After switching off the ignition, the “follow me home” function allows the rider to activate the lights by briefly pressing the high-beam headlight button to assist with maneuvering in parking spaces or opening the garage at home.
A new full LED headlight consists of nine LEDs for the low-beam headlight and eight LEDs for the high-beam headlight. The standard “adaptive headlight” function features a low-beam LED headlight which turns into the curve according to the lean angle. The cornering function now operates through a range of ± 35 degrees (up from ± 24 degrees) for better illumination. It also adjusts up or down by 2 degrees during acceleration and braking.
Like the R 18 B and R 18 Transcontinental, the new K 1600 models features a 10.25-inch high-definition TFT color display with integrated map navigation (via the BMW Motorrad Connected app) and Bluetooth connectivity. For protection against the elements, the display is equipped with a hardened glass cover with an anti-reflective and fingerprint-resistant coating. Functions such as “My vehicle,” “Navigation,” “Radio,” “Media,” “Telephone,” and “Settings” menus can be selected via displayed tiles, and features such as cruise control, riding modes, and audio are seamlessly integrated into the display. The Multi-controller wheel is used to manage some functions.
Standard on the K 1600 GTL and K 1600 Grand America and optional on the K 1600 GT and K 1600 B is BMW’s new Audio System 2.0, with antennas now integrated into the bodywork. Whereas the previous audio system was connected to the motorcycle as a primarily independent system, Audio System 2.0 is integrated into the electrical system. Menu control and setting options as well as the unique display screens are said to make the audio experience a seamless listening experience. The system offers more customization functions as well as SiriusXM satellite radio with 1-year subscription.
The new K 1600 GT, GTL, B, and Grand America are available in three color options each: a standard color, a style variant, and Option 719. Option 719 “Midnight” is particularly noteworthy, which is only available for K 1600 B and K 1600 Grand America. The highlight of this variant is the paint finish in Meteoric Dust II Metallic with the “Galaxy” theme depicted using the water transfer printing method.
MSRP pricing begins at $22,545 for the K 1600 B, $23,895 for the K 1600 GT,
$26,895 for the K 1600 GTL, and $27,745 for the K 1600 Grand America. Motorcycles will be in dealerships starting in February 2022.
Below is a summary of colors, details, standard equipment, options, and accessories for each model. For more information or to find a BMW dealer near you, visit bmwmotorcycles.com.
2022 BMW K 1600 GT: Standard
Black Storm Metallic body color
Frame in black
Engine in black
Seat in black
Front fender in Black Storm Metallic
Radiator cowls in Night Black Matte
Tank center cover in Black Storm Metallic
Slipstream deflector trim in Black Storm Metallic
Front brake calipers in black
2022 BMW K 1600 GT: Sport style
Light White/Racing Blue Metallic/Racing Red body color
Frame in black
Engine in black
Seat in black with gray piping and decorative stitching
Front part of the front fender in Light White
Radiator cowls in Night Black Matte
Tank center cover in Black Storm Metallic
Slipstream deflector trim in Black Storm Metallic
Gold-anodized front brake calipers
2022 BMW K 1600 GT: Option 719
Mineral White Metallic body color with lines
Frame in black
Engine in black
Seat in black (Optional Option 719 seat with diamond top-stitching in saddle brown and cloud print)
Front part of the front fender in Mineral White Metallic
Radiator cowls in Night Black Matte
Tank center cover in Mineral White Metallic
Chrome slipstream deflector trim
Front brake calipers in black
Optional Option 719 classic forged rims
2022 BMW K 1600 GTL: Standard
Black Storm Metallic body color
Frame in Monolith Metallic matte
Engine in platinum
Seat in black
Front fender in Black Storm Metallic
Engine spoiler in Monolith Metallic matte
Tank center cover in Black Storm Metallic
Slipstream deflector trim in Black Storm Metallic
2022 BMW K 1600 GTL: Exclusive style
Gravity Blue Metallic body color
Frame in Monolith Metallic matte
Engine in platinum
Seat in black
Front fender in Gravity Blue Metallic, rear part in Monolith Metallic matte
Engine spoiler in Monolith Metallic matte
Tank center cover in Black Storm Metallic
Chrome slipstream deflector trim
Chrome strips on cases
2022 BMW K 1600 GTL: Option 719
Mineral White Metallic body color with lines
Frame in Monolith Metallic matte
Engine in platinum
Seat in black (Optional Option 719 seat with diamond top-stitching in saddle brown and cloud print)
Front fender in Mineral White Metallic with chrome bar, rear part in Monolith Metallic Matte
Engine spoiler in Monolith Metallic Matte
Tank center cover in Mineral White Metallic
Chrome slipstream deflector trim
Chrome strips on cases
Optional Option 719 classic forged rims
2022 BMW K 1600 B and K 1600 Grand America: Standard
Black Storm Metallic body color
Frame in black
Engine in black
Seat in black
Front part of the front fender in Black Storm Metallic
Engine spoiler in Night Black Matte
Tank center cover in Black Storm Metallic
Slipstream deflector trim in Black Storm Metallic
2022 BMW K 1600 B and K 1600 Grand America: Exclusive style
Manhattan Metallic Matte body color
Frame in black
Engine in black
Seat in black
Front part of the front fender in Manhattan White Metallic
Engine spoiler in Night Black Matte
Tank center cover in Black Storm Metallic
Slipstream deflector trim in Black Storm Metallic
2022 BMW K 1600 B and K 1600 Grand America: Option 719 “Midnight”
Meteoric Dust II Metallic body color with water transfer printing method
Frame in black
Engine in black
Option 719 seat in black with diamond top-stitching and model designation
Front part of the front fender in Meteoric Dust II Metallic
Engine spoiler in Night Black Matte
Tank center cover in Meteoric Dust II Metallic
Slipstream deflector trim in Meteoric Dust II Metallic
“Midnight” badge
Standard Equipment on 2022 BMW K 1600 GT, GTL, B, and Grand America
Black Storm Metallic paint
10.25-inch TFT screen with BMW Motorrad Connected app navigation
Audio System 2.0 with fairing speakers (K 1600 GTL)
Shaft drive
Slipper clutch
Reversing aid
Hill Start Control Pro
Dynamic Engine Brake Control
Adjustable windscreen
Cast aluminum wheels
Duolever front suspension
Paralever rear suspension
Integral ABS with ABS Pro
Dynamic Traction Control
Dynamic ESA “Next Generation”
Steering stabilizer
Tire pressure monitor
12v power socket
Cooled, mobile device charging compartment
Electronic immobilizer
Heated grips and seat
Adaptive LED headlight, LED turn signals and rear light
Multi-controller
Programable function buttons
Dynamic Cruise Control
Ride modes
Luggage rack
Centerstand
Comfort footrests
Integrated side cases in body color
Top case in body color (K 1600 GTL)
2022 BMW K 1600 GT: Optional equipment and accessories
Premium Package
Keyless Ride
Central locking system
Gear Shift Assist Pro
Anti-theft alarm
Audio System 2.0
LED fog lights
Engine protection bar
2022 BMW K 1600 GT: Stand-alone options
Style: Sport Light White/Racing Blue/Racing Red metallic
Ducati has reported impressive sales numbers over the last few years. In 2019, the Italian manufacturer shared a monumental statistic — 1 in every 4 superbikes sold that year was a Ducati Panigale. The company’s fortunes have continued to grow as Asphalt and Rubber have reported that Ducati has had its best sales year in 2021.
The Italian marquee managed to sell a respectable 48,042 units of its machines last year, and it surpassed this number in the first 9 months of 2021. Yes, 2020 was a tumultuous year for motorcycle manufacturers, but the number of bikes sold so far in 2021 also surpasses those sold up until the same period in 2019.
With 49,693 motorcycles sold by the end of Q3 2021, Ducati sales are up 25% compared to the same period in 2019. A&R mentions that this makes the third quarter of 2021 the best one for Ducati ever.
“Ducati closed the first nine months of the year with sales volumes that are already higher than the full year 2020, both for the bikes and after-sales products like clothing, accessories, and spare parts,” said Francesco Milicia, Ducati VP Global Sales and After Sales.
“The growth we are experiencing is practically widespread in all the main markets in which Ducati is present and extends across the product families. We are very satisfied with the results obtained: the community of Ducatisti is growing all over the world, and the most influential magazines in the motorcycling sector are awarding important prizes to Ducati bikes.”
“This is a source of pride and satisfaction for us here in Borgo Panigale and in all Ducati subsidiaries worldwide. The brand is now more solid and appreciated than ever and we are already focusing on next year. In fact, in these weeks, we are presenting to the world the new products for the coming year, through the web series Ducati World Première 2022.”
By region, Ducati’s sales continue to be spearheaded by the home market, Italy (7,954), followed by the United States (7,475) and Germany (5,627). The Ducati Multistrada V4 is one of the most significant contributors. It is followed by the Scrambler 800 models, which the Streetfighter V4 and Monster follow — it seems like not as many people are interested in the Panigale line anymore.
Ducati is set to reveal its lineup for 2022 very soon, and we already know that the Streetfighter V2 and DesertX adventure bike will be part of it. With more options to choose from, next year could be just as great for the Italians.
Bajaj has unveiled the next generation of the popular Pulsar motorcycle, introducing the new Pulsar N250 and F250 in India. Priced at Rs 1.38 lakh ($1,845) and Rs 1.40 lakh ($1,872), respectively, the two entry-level motorcycles cost just Rs 4,000 (around $53) more than the smaller Pulsar 220F from the previous generation.
The Pulsar line is one of the most popular motorcycles in the world’s largest two-wheeler market, and these two models mark two decades since the first of them debuted in India. The F250 and N250 share the same engine and chassis, with the only difference between the two models being their appearance — the F250 features a sportbike-like fairing, while the N250 is a street-naked.
Powering the bikes is a 249cc, liquid-cooled, SOHC, single-cylinder engine that produces peak output figures of 24.5hp and 21.5Nm — these numbers put in between the Bajaj Pulsar 220F and the Dominar 250. The engine is mated to a 5-speed gearbox that works alongside a slip-and-assist clutch.
Both motorcycles feature LED headlights (unlike the older Pulsars), a sporty split-seat design, and a digital-analog instrument cluster. The F250 also features raised clip-on handlebars. Both bikes feature aggressive styling, which is more prominent on the Pulsar N250 — the rear end has sharp lines accentuated by the twin LED tail-lights.
Autocar India also reports that this is the first time that a non-NS/RS Pulsar gets a rear monoshock. The frame and swingarm, however, are different to incorporate this feature. At the front, the Pulsars continue to employ a conventional telescopic fork.
Braking is handled by a 300mm disc up front and a 230mm disc at the rear. The N250 weighs 162kg (357lbs), while the added bodywork on the F250 adds a couple of pounds taking its total weight to 164kg (361lbs).
Bajaj has reported that it will start shipping the bike to dealerships on November 10.
And what of the prizes? The Challenge can be disputed on all platforms (PlayStation, Xbox and PC) and the gamer who sets the fastest time on each platform will be invited to whichever Grand Prix, that hosts MotoE™, they desire in 2022 (should the situation regarding Covid 19 allow it).
Bastianini rewards his 741 new owners with a top Misano points haul, as Rossi makes his way into the optimal team
The 2021 Emilia-Romagna GP will be remembered for a number of reasons, most of all for Fabio Quartararo’s (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP, $4.8m) maiden MotoGP™ title win and Valentino Rossi’s (Petronas Yamaha SRT, $1.8m) Misano farewell. But how did things pan out in MotoGP™ Fantasy? Let’s have a look.
Dream team – the Beast on fire, The Doctor delivers
For the second time in a row at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, Enea Bastianini (Avintia Esponsorama, $2.6m) – aka ‘Bestia’, the ‘Beast’ – delivered. A second podium of the season came the 2020 Moto2™ World Champion’s way, from 16th on the grid, to see Bastianini claim a mega 42-point haul – the perfect reward for Bestia’s 741 new owners.
Race winner Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team, $3.8m) was the second most transferred out rider ahead of the qualifying and the race, and he made sellers rue their decision. The eight-time World Champion accumulated 41 points at Misano, with nine-time World Champion Rossi making his way into the MotoGP™ Fantasy dream team for the first time this season. Newly crowned World Champion Quartararo bagged a fantastic points tally as well to make up the ideal team for Misano.
For most of the race, it looked like Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team, $4.1m) was going to reward the 2,252 players that placed a Motul300V Boost on him. Five laps from the end of the race, though, Pecco was down at Turn 15 – ending his hopes of the 2021 MotoGP™ title, and breaking Fantasy players’ hearts that were so close to pocketing some series points from the Italian.
Who are the highest-scoring riders in the last three GPs?
After two P3s and a P6, all from outside the top 10 on the grid, Bastianini is the man in form – both on track and in MotoGP™ Fantasy. Bestia has tallied 116 points in the last three GPs, more than any other rider. Bastianini should definitely be on the radar of Fantasy players heading into the final two rounds of the season.
As is Marc Marquez. The number 93 has scored 110 points in his last three outings, including two victories at COTA and Misano. Portimao looks set to be a tricky affair for the Spaniard with the circuit’s rollercoaster nature, but if you’re one of the 685 players who traded Marquez out, you’re probably looking at a way to get him back in – and for good reason.
The 2021 title may have been decided, but there’s still plenty up for grabs in MotoGP™ Fantasy. Every move counts now in the race to finish top of your Leagues, who are you looking at getting in ahead of Portimao?
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In addition, of the 19 Rookie of the Year winners up to 2020, 10 have been able to stand on the podium. Martin and Bastianini have both sprayed the bubbly on more than one occasion in 2021, and will join Binder, Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP), Johann Zarco (Pramac Racing), Marc Marquez, Ben Spies, Lorenzo, Pedrosa, Ruben Xaus, Nicky Hayden and Daijiro Kato in achieving this feat.
The former British Grand Prix rider was best known for winning the Imola 200 with Ducati, with the Italian marque releasing a special Paul Smart 1000LE in 2006 in honour of Paul’s victory. Paul also enjoyed success with the likes of Suzuki, Triumph, Kawasaki and Yamaha before he retired in 1978.
The FIM MiniGP World Final is on the horizon, set to take place just ahead of the Gran Premio MOTUL de la Comunitat Valenciana, and the Entry List for the event can now be revealed.
The 30-strong list comprises the top three riders from each of the 10 Series that began in 2021 – Alpe Adria, France, Ireland, Italy, Malaysia, the Netherlands, North America, Portugal, Spain and the UK – with 10 countries represented amongst the finalists. They will all compete in Valencia for the overall crown, but split into different groups for Free Practice, Qualifying and five races.
After briefings and preparation on Tuesday, track action will begin on Wednesday with Free Practice and Qualifying. The races to decide the overall 2021 Champion will then take place on the Thursday ahead of the MotoGP season finale.