Late last year, the Yamaha MT-07 and MT-09 received substantial updates, and now it’s the flagship liter-class naked, the MT-10’s turn.
Like with the smaller MT models, Yamaha has given the MT-10 revised styling rendering it a more aggressive look. The most notable is the addition of a new headlight design that resembles bug eyes with LED DRLs placed right above, like eyebrows. It’s an interesting-looking thing.
Autocar India reports that MT-10 continues to be powered by a cross-plane, inline-four engine but now features lightweight aluminum forged pistons, offset con-rods, and direct-plated cylinders. The engine is also now Euro 5 compliant, largely thanks to a new intake and titanium exhaust. Peak output figures are 164hp at 11,500 rpm and 82.6lb-ft of torque at 9,000, a slight bump over the previous generation model.
Electronics on offer include traction control, slide control, engine braking management, and wheelie control that work alongside a six-axis IMU. For 2022, Yamaha has also refined the ride-by-wire system and ride modes that you can now toggle via new switchgear.
The new 2022 Yamaha MT-10 will be available in Cyan Storm, Icon Blue, and Tech Black color schemes and will go on sale early next year. Currently, Yamaha has not announced pricing for the motorcycle, but we shall update this space when it does.
Along with announcement of the V2 overnight as the new young start-up in Ducati’s Streetfighter range, Bologna also pulled the covers off a new big daddy of the Streetfighter range, meet the V4 SP.
At $48,400 Ride Away the V4 SP is more than twice the price of the new Streetfighter V2, and 8k more than a Panigale V4 S, so what do you get for your money?
Basically what you get is a Panigale V4 S without its clothes but with even more trick bits, some of which come from the 150k+ Superleggera, and the sum of those parts go to help make the Streetfighter V4 SP the wildest naked to ever be offered by Ducati. It looks pretty spesh too.
2022 Ducati Streetfighter V4 SP Standard Features
Handlebar embossed with the progressive number of the bike
Brushed aluminum at sight tank
Dedicated seat with “V4 SP” logo
Carbon fibre wings
Carbon fibre front fender
STM-EVO SBK dry clutch
Carbon fibre wheels with 5-split spokes
Brembo Stylema R front brake callipers
Brembo MCS 19.21 front brake pump (Multiple Click System)
Adjustable rider footpegs in machined aluminium with carbon heel guards
Single-seat configuration
Lithium-ion battery
Carbon clutch cover open (supplied)
License plate holder removal cover (supplied)
The “Winter Test” livery has been conceived by the Ducati Centro Stile taking inspiration from the Ducati Corse motorcycles ridden in MotoGP and SBK Championships pre-season tests. The Matte Black of the fairings combined with the Matte Carbon finish of rims and wings, contrasts with the bright Red accents and the sparkling brushed aluminium tank. Making it a little bit more special is the progressive number printed on the handlebar and the Italian flag colour scheme on the carbon wings.
The Streetfighter V4 SP is equipped with split-five-spoke carbon rims, 1.4 kg lighter than the forged aluminium ones fitted as standard on the Streetfighter V4 S and capable of reducing the inertia by 26% at the front and 46% at the rear, making the bike significantly more agile and lighter when changing direction.
Brembo Stylema R front brake calipers guarantee great braking power under even extremes of duress.
The SP model shares with the Streetfighter V4 S version Öhlins NIX-30 fork, Öhlins TTX36 rear shock absorber and Öhlins steering damper controlled by the second generation Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 system. Unlike the S version, the new machine has the same Panigale V4 springs and hydraulics. The only difference is fork spring pre-load reduced from 11mm to 6mm.
The beating heart is the 1,103 cc Desmosedici Stradale with 208 hp capable of delivering a torque of 123 Nm at 9,500 rpm. The Desmo 90°-V4 layout MotoGP-derived engine, featuring rare gems such as the counter-rotating crankshaft and “Twin Pulse” firing order.
On the Streetfighter V4 SP the Desmosedici Stradale is fitted with the STM-EVO SBK dry clutch, which promises a better anti-hopping function, even in the most aggressive downshifts, and greater fluidity during all “off-throttle” stages, a crucial aspect to be truly effective on the track when pushing to the limit.
The equipment of this unique bike is enriched by the adjustable aluminium and CNC machined foot-pegs, the carbon front mudguard, the lithium-ion battery and a range of accessories suitable for the “track days”, such as the open carbon clutch cover and the caps for removing the license plate holder.
The latest-generation electronics package on the Streetfighter V4 SP is based on a six-axis Inertial Unit (6D IMU – Inertial Measurement Unit) capable to instantaneously detect the bike’s roll, yaw and pitch angle in space.
In addition, the electronics package includes controls to manage all riding phases, from the start, to acceleration and braking, traction, through the corners and out the other side.
• ABS Cornering Bosch EVO • Ducati Traction Control EVO 2 (DTC EVO 2) • Ducati Slide Control (DSC) • Ducati Wheelie Control EVO (DWC EVO) • Ducati Power Launch (DPL) • Ducati Quick Shift up/down EVO 2 (DQS EVO 2) • Engine Brake Control EVO (EBC EVO) • Ducati Electronic Suspension EVO (DES EVO)
Lastly, the operating parameters of each control are associated by default with the three Riding Modes. Riders have therefore the opportunity to personalise their riding style or restore the Ducati settings. Any of the control levels, such as DTC, DWC, DSC o EBC, can be quickly adjusted via the left switch cube.
The Ducati Streetfighter V4 SP is expected to arrive in Australia from May 2022 priced at $48,400 Ride Away.
Öhlins NIX30 43 mm fully adjustable fork with TiN treatment. Electronic compression and rebound damping adjustment with Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 event-based mode
Front Wheel
5-split spoke carbon fiber 3.50″ x 17″
Front Tyre
Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II 120/70 ZR17
Rear Suspension
Fully adjustable Ohlins TTX36 unit. Electronic compression and rebound damping adjustment with Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 event- based mode. Aluminium single-sided swingarm
Rear Wheel
5-split spoke carbon fiber 6.00″ x 17″
Rear Tyre
Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II 200/60 ZR17
Wheel Travel (Front/Rear)
120 mm (4.7 in) – 130 mm (5.1 in)
Front Brake
2 x 330 mm semi-floating discs, radially mounted Brembo Monobloc Stylema® R 4-piston callipers with Bosch Cornering ABS EVO. Self bleeding master cylinder
Rear Brake
245 Mm Disc, 2-Piston Calliper With Bosch Cornering ABS EVO
Instrumentation
Last generation digital unit with 5″ TFT colour display
Dimensions And Weights
Dry Weight
177 kg (390 lb)
Kerb Weight
196 kg (432 lb)
Seat Height
845 mm (33.3 in)
Wheelbase
1.488 mm (58.6 in)
Rake
24.5°
Front Wheel Trail
100 mm (4 in)
Fuel Tank Capacity
16 l – 4.23 gallon (US)
Number Of Seats
Single seat
Equipment
Safety Equipment
Riding Modes, Power Modes, Bosch Cornering ABS EVO, Ducati
Traction Control (DTC) EVO 2, Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC)
EVO, Ducati Slide Control (DSC), Engine Brake Control (EBC)
EVO, Auto tyre calibration
Ducati Power Launch (DPL), Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) up/down
EVO 2, Full LED lighting with Daytime Running Light (DRL),
Ducati Electronic Suspension (DES) EVO with Ohlins suspension
This past year, Triumph has released limited-edition iterations of multiple models in its line-up. Some of them include the Tiger 900 Bond edition and the Bonneville Gold Line Editions. Now, the British manufacturer has announced the arrival of three more limited-edition models of the Thruxton RS, Street Twin, and the Rocket 3.
221 Edition Triumph Rocket 3 R and Rocket 3 GT
The Rocket 3 sports the largest engine on a production motorcycle. This 2,500cc, inline-triple, behemoth of an engine produces peak output figures of 167hp and 221Nm of torque — the latter, a number that Triumph is quite proud of.
The 221 Edition Triumph Rocket 3, as its name suggests, celebrates its peak torque figure. While it sports no mechanical updates, it comes in a cool ‘Red Hopper’ color scheme, features 221 branding on the tank pads, and includes other cosmetic tweaks, including blacked-out fender brackets, windscreen, and side panels.
The limited-edition R and GT models wear $23,900 and $24,600 price tags, respectively.
Thruxton RS Ton Up Edition
The Thruxton RS Ton Up Edition, too, comes with no mechanical or performance updates. It continues to be powered by the same 1,200cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin, and hardware components like the Ohlins suspension and Brembo brakes are identical as well.
However, this limited-edition model sports a cosmetic overhaul that pays homage to the cafe racer culture of the 1950s and 1960s. RideApart reports that the Ton Up Edition, in its special Aegean Blue color scheme, features a black cutout at the tank, a silver pinstripe and a white tail cowl, and a front mudguard with ‘100 Special Edition’ graphics.
At $17,300, the Thruxton RS Ton Up costs $800 more than the standard model.
Street Twin EC1 Special Edition
Triumph has mentioned in its press release that the Street Twin EC1 takes its inspiration from “the vibrant custom-classic motorcycle culture of London’s East End – particularly the historic streets of EC1, the iconic London postcode.”
Changes on this edition are minimal with a new Matt Aluminium Silver and Matt Silver Ice paint scheme, along with EC1, graphics across the tank, and side panels.
The unique color scheme comes at an additional $750 over the standard Street Twin’s $10,350 price.
All three limited-edition models will go on sale from January 2022.
While Ducati have forged ahead with their adoption of V4 power for much of their large capacity range they have not been forgetting their L-Twin roots. In fact, with World Supersport set to be revitalised in 2022 and the likes of Oli Bayliss racing the Panigale V2 in the category, we will again be seeing more twin-cylinder Ducatis not only on the street, but also back in competition.
For those that like their sportsbikes without clothes, Ducati are also offering a new Streetfighter V2.
Powered by a short-stroke 955 cc Superquadro twin making 153 horsepower, it might be 55 horsepower down on the latest Streetfighter V4, but it still packs 40 horsepower more than the fabled 916 sportsbike, and 15 more ponies than the last model to share that iconic styling, the delectable 998 R. So clearly, it’s no slouch!
What we have is basically a Panigale V2 stripped of its bodywork and without the clip-ons. In their place we have a shallow bend single piece handlebar that positions the rider in a more street friendly riding position. It also runs a couple more teeth on the rear sprocket to shorten the gearing for street work.
The Superquadro engine is used as a bearing element connecting the compact front structure, consisting of a monocoque frame in die-cast aluminium fixed to the engine head. The single-sided swingarm, which is also connected to the engine, is 16 mm longer compared to that of the Panigale V2 which adds further stability.
Suspension consists of a 43 mm diameter Showa BPF front fork, fully-adjustable in compression and rebound damping and spring preload. The control of the front end is completed by a Sachs steering damper. A progressive link operates the fully-adjustable Sachs rear shock absorber. The side-mounted shock absorber allows quick access to all adjustments, the link is moved by a single-arm cast in aluminum.
Except for the adoption of brake pads characterised by a less aggressive bite, more suitable for road use, the whole braking system is faithfully taken from the Panigale V2 and features Brembo M4-32 monobloc radial calipers with 320 mm diameter discs.
The comprehensive and modern electronics are also inherited from the Panigale V2. The 6-axis IMU inertial platform manages all the electronic controls of the bike and gives the position of the bike in space in real time, sending the information to the control units that manage the controls.
The electronic package includes: ABS Cornering EVO with “slide by brake” functionality, Ducati Traction Control (DTC) EVO 2, Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) EVO, Ducati Quick Shift up/down (DQS) EVO 2, Engine Brake Control (EBC) EVO.
The Streetfighter V2 features three different Riding Modes (Sport, Road, Wet) with dedicated control settings. The electronic equipment can be enhanced by a range of accessories of the Ducati Performance catalogue: Ducati Data Analyzer (DDA + GPS) and Ducati Multimedia System.
The bike is equipped with full-LED headlights with front DRL and a 4.3-inch full-TFT dashboard with an intuitive interface that recalls the Streetfighter V4 family-feeling.
The Ducati Performance catalogue features an extended range of accessories, like the biplane wings, faithfully derived from the Streetfighter V4, designed to guarantee a downforce of 28 kg at 265 km/h. Furthermore, a complete Akrapovič racing exhaust is still available, which boosts power to 157 hp and reduces the weight by 7 kg. A single-seater kit and many other components that enhance the look and characteristics of the bike will also be available for the bling kings.
The Streetfigher V2 is scheduled to arrive in Australia from February, 2022, and will start from $22,500 Ride Away.
Free Dark Tint Visor with select Shoei helmets in November!
If you’re looking for a new lid, now’s the right time to check out the Shoei range, with X-Spirit III, NXR2, NXR, Glamster, Ex-Zero and J.O helmets receiving a bonus dark tint visor during November, while stocks last!
The dark tint visors are valued up to $119 and help increase visibility on those bright summer days that were just made for riding. Not only do they protect against 99% of the sun’s UV rays, the dark tint means you’re not having to ride with sunglasses, improving your field of vision.
A tinted visor can help reduce eye fatigue too – allowing you to concentrate for longer – while also helping reduce the heat in your helmet by blocking sun from directly hitting your face.
Here’s a quick look at each of the helmets that currently benefit from this deal:
Shoei X-Spirit III
Shoei’s X-Spirit III is track certified by Marc Marquez – the fastest road racer on the planet. The X-Spirit III is a proven race weapon for those who aren’t willing to sacrifice a single detail when it comes to high-end performance.
Like the handcrafted race bikes that dominate MotoGP’s premiere racing circuits, every detail of the X-Spirit III was carefully designed, tested and fine-tuned until this final, uncompromised helmet was born.
Dark tint visors available are the 1112345 (CWR-1) and 1114799 (CWR-F).
Shoei NXR2
The very latest performance helmet model in the Shoei line-up is the all new NXR2. The process of improving is a constant evolution, and with a world-class team of designers and engineers leading the charge on the development of this helmet, which improves on the popular NXR platform.
Utilising a state-of-the-art wind tunnel facility, extensive array of proprietary materials, and the industry’s most stringent quality assurance practices, Shoei developed the all-new NXR2.
The dark tint visor 1122353 (CWR-F2) is available for the NXR2.
Shoei NXR
Shoei utilised its 55-year wealth of knowledge, state-of-the-art wind tunnel facility, proprietary materials, and the industry’s most stringent quality assurance practices to develop the original NXR helmet, the successor to the NXR2.
A lighter, more compact, streamlined helmet with next-level functionality, Shoei’s NXR is as home at the track as it is on the road.
The Shoei NXR takes dark tint visor 1112345 (CWR-1).
Shoei Glamster
The Glamster is the latest addition to Shoei’s neo-classic series and offers the comfort and safety of a modern full face helmet with genuine vintage style.
It features a multi-ply matrix AIM shell, dual layer multi-density EPS liner, exceptional ventilation performance and a micro ratchet strap retention system. The CPB-1 dark tint visor is available for this lid (1120712).
Shoei Ex-Zero
Classic design is blended with modern technology and performance in the Ex-Zero helmet. Based on the classic Shoei designs of yesteryear, the Ex-Zero combines Shoei’s unique AIM lightweight composite shell, with a multi-density four piece inner EPS liner to create a super-lightweight helmet, with Shoei’s signature high-level performance, quality and safety.
The dark tint visor available for the Shoei Ex-Zero is 1114796 (CJ-3).
Shoei J.O
Whether you ride a custom classic or modern retro, the Shoei J•O will match your ride, with no compromise on safety and comfort.
A classic open face helmet with visor, it features a multi-ply matrix AIM shell, dual layer multi-density EPS liner, interior comfort system and rear goggle strap to hold your goggles in place at speed. A CJ-3 dark tint visor is available – 1114796.
The brake light may remain illuminated when the front brakes are not applied.
What are the hazards?
If this occurs the traffic behind the vehicle will be unable to identify whether the motorcycle is actually braking. This may lead to an accident causing injury or death to the rider and/or passenger and/or other road users.
What should consumers do?
Owners of affected motorcycles can contact their nearest Harley-Davidson Australia dealer immediately and arrange an appointment to have the master cylinder rebuilt free of charge.
The 2021 FIM MiniGP World Final was an incredible conclusion to the first season of the FIM MiniGP World Series. Two races worth standards points and then the Super Final Race – worth double points – decided the Champion, with FIM MiniGP Spain Series rider Izan Rodriguez coming out on top after doing the triple.
Spain’s Pablo Olivares came second overall and took two podiums, with Italian Cristian Borrelli was third overall after also finishing on the rostrum twice.
Race One
After Qualifying Race that saw the top two move through, the first points on offer were decided. Rodriguez got the perfect start and the holeshot, but Olivares was close on the chase.
They took a 1-2 for Spain, with Irish lad O’Brien impressing to convert fourth on the grid to a podium finish in P3.
Race Two
With one more rider on the grid, the winner of Qualifying Race 2, there were 25 more points up for grabs and Rodriguez once again took an early lead. He had Olivares as his shadow again too, with the two eventually crossing the line split by almost nothing in another 1-2.
This time around, the close fight for the podium was won by Cristian Borrelli as the FIM MiniGP Italy Series rider made an impressive step forward.
Super Final Race
With 50 points on the line it all came down to the final race, and this time around Rodriguez didn’t get the holeshot – closest rival Olivares did. But it didn’t take too long for the points leader to strike back and attack, taking over in the lead once again.
Olivares then got embroiled in the group fight behind, and Rodriguez pulled away to take his third win of the day to underline his domination of the event. Borrelli and compatriot Edoardo Liguori came out on top in the group scrap, taking second and third respectively.
Championship Standings
Izan Rodriguez took a clean sweep to become the inaugural Champion and Olivares made it a Spanish 1-2 on the back of his two second places and a fourth.
Italian Cristian Borrelli’s progress throughout the day was rewarded with third overall, just one points off Olivares.
13-year-old Italian Edoardo took fourth in the standings after the first MiniGP World Final, with Ireland Series star Josh O’Brien continuing his pace in Race 2 and the Super Final to lock out P5 for 2021.
Motorcycling Australia and Ohvale Australia have worked closely over the past 12 months to secure Australia’s involvement in the 2022 FIM MiniGP World Series. The FIM MiniGP World Series is a Road to MotoGP initiative between Dorna, FIM and Ohvale Europe which made its debut in 2021.
Australia now joins Italy, Malaysia, France, Netherlands, North America, Spain, UK, Alpe Adria, Indonesia, Ireland, Portugal, Qatar and Austria as host countries, launching the FIM MiniGP Australia Series for 2022.
The Series provides an ideal entry level platform for young Australian riders looking to begin their two-wheeled motorsport journey. The new Road to MotoGP program will take part utlising Ohvale GP-0 160 machinery designed specifically for racing on karting circuits – a perfect entry level platform for kids aged between 10-14 years old, new to the sport of motorcycling.
The winners from each national, regional or continental MiniGP Cup will have the opportunity to participate in the World MiniGP Final in Europe.
The FIM MiniGP Australia Series is the first in the Oceania region, which will feature 10 races over five rounds on the Ohvale Australia racing machines.
Motorcycling Australia CEO, Peter Doyle, said the FIM MiniGP World Series was an exciting opportunity for Australian riders.
“Motorcycling Australia is very excited to see Australia join the 2022 FIM MiniGP World Series putting Australia’s sensational racing talent on the World stage,” Mr Doyle said.
“We are pleased to support Series promoters Ohvale Australia, and the 2022 FIM MiniGP Australia Series will not only provide spectacular on track action but give riders their first steps to potentially becoming a future World Champion.
“We see the FIM MiniGP Australia Series as a crucial steppingstone for young Australian riders wanting to develop their racing skills.”
Ohvale Australia and joint promoter multiple Australian Superbike Champion, Wayne Maxwell said this was an exciting opportunity for young Australia riders and encouraged them to register their interest now.
“We are very thankful for the support of Motorcycling Australia and the FIM in securing what will be a phenomenal first for Australia, the 2022 FIM MiniGP Australia Series,” Mr Maxwell said.
“We are very excited for what this Series will bring to racing and the development of young riders.
“My dream is to one day see a young talent from Mini GP become a World Champion
“The Ohvale GP-O machine are now in stock and come with a race kit for MiniGP.
“Each bike has a factory sealed engine from Ohvale to ensure parity. Ohvale will provide technical support in the way of spare parts, from crash damage to engines.”
Riders must be between 10 and 14-years of age and will compete on Ohvale Australia GP-0 160 machines with Pirelli tyres – Pirelli are the official single tyre supplier for all the FIM MiniGP Series.
The winner qualifies for the FIM MiniGP World Final.
Smart helmets with head-up display and other hi-tech features rank as the most exciting piece of kit riders are keen to try in 2022, according to a new UK survey.
The Bikesure survey found that riders are keen to invest in new technologies to improve their safety while riding.
We have been hearing about these smart helmets for sever al years with a raNge of technology such as head-up display like jet fighter pilots have been using for years.
The helmets are now starting to hit the market with features that display GPS directions, allow phone calls, show 360° rearview footage from an inbuilt camera, provide traffic alerts and even alert you to traffic hazards.
Whether these are a safety feature or create distraction is still open to debate.
However, the UK study found smart helmets were ranked top of the kit wish list by 52% with younger riders most receptive while over 65s (35%) were more hesitant.
A slim 51% majority of those surveyed believed their riding experiences would be enhanced by new technologies in smart helmets.
Over half of those set to consider investing in new technologies and modifications say that safety credentials are the most important buying consideration (53%) which beat out other considerations such as price, weight and looks.
Other safety improvements that riders are most excited about include modular helmets with improved flow and visibility; airbag vests, jackets and full-length suits; and lightweight adventure riding gear.
Similarly, younger riders are more receptive than older riders to this new gear.
Riders are also considering modifications and technological upgrades to their bikes in 2022.
Some 39% are likely to invest in bikes with ABS, 32% in adaptive headlights, 28% in smart windshield upgrades, and 26% in a bike with vehicle-to-vehicle technology (V2V) or bike-to-vehicle technology (B2V).
Ducati Australia has confirmed pricing and arrival for the Streetfighter V2 and V4 SP model.
The exciting 208hp Streetfighter V4 naked bike arrived last year at $A29,500 ride away for the Streetfighter and $33,900 for the Streetfighter S.
That compares with $31,650 and $40,490 for the Panigale V4 and V4S on which it is based.
Streetfighter V2
Now they have released a cheaper 178kg, 153hp V2 version arriving in Australia and New Zealand from February 2022 at $A22,500 ($NZ23,495).
It is powered by the Panigale V2’s 955cc Euro 5-compliant Superquadro engine with 153hp of power at 10,750rpm and 101.4Nm of torque at 9,000rpm.
Compared with the Panigale V2, the Streetfighter V2 has a shorter final ratio (15/45 vs 15/43) for more torque at the rear wheel and more responsiveness when re-opening the throttle.
The engine is part of the monocoque die-cast aluminium frame and connected to the single-sided swingarm which is 16 mm longer than on the Panigale V2.
It comes with 43mm Showa BPF forks and the Sachs rear shock, 5-spoke wheels and the new Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres (120/70 ZR17; 180/60 ZR17).
It also features the Panigale V2’s Brembo M4-32 monobloc radial calipers with 320mm diameter discs and the Panigale’s electronics.
The Streetfighter V2 has LED headlights and a 4.3” full-TFT dashboard.
Streetfighter V4 SP
The 3kg lighter and more exclusive Streetfighter V4 SP will arrive in May 2022 at $A48,400 ($NZ50,595).
It is powered by the 1103 cc Desmosedici Stradale with 208hp and 123Nm with an STM-EVO SBK dry clutch.
While it is no more powerful than the V4 S, the SP is 3kg lighter than the Streetfighter V4 S at 196kg.
The top-of-the-range “SP” (Sport Production) model has a “Winter Test” livery and equipment from the Superleggera V4.
It sits on 5 split-spoke carbon rims which are 1.4kg lighter than the forged aluminium rims on the Streetfighter V4 S, reducing inertia by 26% at the front and 46% at the rear.
Together with Brembo Stylema R front brake calipers it should be more nimble and quicker to stop.
It features Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 suspension that can vary the damping according to the rider’s riding style.
Other features include adjustable aluminium and CNC-machined footpegs, carbon front guard and light lithium-ion battery.
There are also track days accessories, such as an open carbon clutch cover and caps for removing the number plate holder.