“Knocked out” Di Giannantonio misses Day 2 & 3 of Shakedown

“Fabio has a simple gastroenteritis, with the symptoms appearing at the end of the opening day of testing,” said Dr Michele Zasa, Clinica Mobile Manager. “This is something quite common when we travel to Southeast Asia, but still led to high dehydration that doesn’t allow him to ride safely.

Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here

2022 Honda Gold Wing

2022 Honda Gold Wing.

2022 Honda Gold Wing. (Honda/)

Ups

  • Larger trunk, improved passenger accommodations
  • Android Auto/Apple CarPlay compatible, better speakers
  • New-gen engine and suspension
  • More than four decades of refinement

Downs

  • Higher price tag
  • Less luggage space than previous generations
  • Smaller fuel tank
  • Dashboard info panel interface could be better

Verdict

Honda’s luxury touring flagship returns with some minor updates that include more top trunk capacity, plus improved passenger accommodations and Android Auto BT compatibility (in addition to Apple CarPlay) as well as XM radio and 55-watt speakers to the entertainment system. Although the Gold Wing’s competitors have arguably surpassed it in some respects, the big Honda still remains a favorite to many, and continues to be one of the company’s strongest sellers in the US.

2022 Honda Gold Wing.

2022 Honda Gold Wing. (Honda/)

Overview

Probably the most iconic luxury tourer in motorcycling, Honda’s Gold Wing has been the category benchmark for nearly five decades. Anytime the subject of traveling long distances in comfort on a motorcycle comes up, Honda’s venerable grand tourer always deserves a mention. The Gold Wing’s extensive history has been the result of continual refinement over those 47 years, with the engine going through six generations of development from a 999cc eight-valve flat four-cylinder in 1974 to a 1,832cc 24-valve flat six-cylinder powerplant in 2018. Ironically, the original Gold Wing didn’t come with a fairing or hard luggage until 1980 with the introduction of the Gold Wing Interstate model. But sales of the Interstate (and the even more accessorized and expensive Aspencade model) soon dwarfed the standard Gold Wing, and the non-faired model was quietly dropped from the lineup several years later.

The Gold Wing continued to get new features and accessories over the years, which also added bulk and weight; while the original 1974 model scaled in at 584 pounds dry, by 1987 the first flat-six-engined Gold Wing weighed just short of 800 pounds dry. But the Gold Wing has always remained very nimble for its hefty dimensions, due to the transmission being located underneath the crankshaft and the fuel tank situated underneath the rider’s seat, keeping the center of mass as low as possible. Many firsts for Honda made their debut on the Gold Wing, such as shaft drive, hydraulic valve tappets, hydraulic clutch actuation, cruise control, “reverse gear,” the first motorcycle airbag, and more.

The fifth-generation 2001 GL1800 not only increased overall power, it also dropped weight as well, with its extruded aluminum frame contributing to the weight loss. But the sixth-generation 2018 GL1800 underwent a complete redesign (see our in-depth story here), with the new engine getting completely reworked with four valves per cylinder, and the entire bike made more compact. Weight dropped an amazing 90 pounds from the fifth-gen Gold Wing, and power/torque increased. A new die-cast twin-spar aluminum frame sports a double-wishbone Hossack-type front suspension that is similar in concept to BMW’s Duolever setup, along with electronically adjustable suspension on the deluxe Tour model. Throttle is ride-by-wire with four ride modes, HSTC (Honda Selectable Torque Control, aka traction control), Hill Start Assist, along with optional DCT seven-speed transmission and numerous other available extras.

Updates for 2022

Some minor updates were made in 2021, but remain identical this year. The most important being a trunk capacity enlargement to 61 liters (from 50 liters) that is spacious enough to easily fit two full-face helmets and was a previous weak point with some Gold Wing owners. The passenger backrest angle was relaxed, height added, and padding increased for additional comfort (given full passenger approval by Justin Dawes’ better half in his 2021 Gold Wing Tour DCT Review here). An XM radio antenna is now standard, and the entertainment speakers have been upgraded to 55-watt units with optimized automatic volume adjustment; all Gold Wings are now Android Auto compatible (in addition to Apple CarPlay) for easy integration with your chosen smartphone.

As far as color options, the trunkless Gold Wing model is only available in Matte Nightshade Blue as an Automatic DCT model, while the Gold Wing Tour model is available in Metallic Black or Ultra Blue Metallic in both standard transmission and DCT models. The Gold Wing Tour Airbag Automatic DCT (no standard transmission or non-Tour model offered) is only available in Ultra Blue Metallic.

2022 Honda Gold Wing.

2022 Honda Gold Wing. (Honda/)

Pricing and Variants

There are three models of the Gold Wing. The top-trunkless Gold Wing is available only with a Automatic DCT transmission (base MSRP $25,300). The fully loaded Gold Wing Tour similarly comes in two versions: manual six-speed transmission (base MSRP $28,500) and the Automatic DCT transmission model ($29,500). And finally, the Gold Wing Tour Airbag Automatic DCT transmission model starts at $32,800 base MSRP.

Competition

With its domination of the luxury tourer market, all of the former Japanese competition to the Gold Wing has long since disappeared. The most obvious challenger today is BMW’s K 1600 GTL (or the bagger-influenced K 1600 B or K 1600 GTL Grand America). You can check out CW’s comparison of the 2018 Gold Wing and BMW’s K 1600 GTL Grand America here. There are plenty of V-twin-based touring bikes, such as Indian’s Roadmaster or Harley-Davidson’s Road Glide Limited, although they don’t quite pack the performance or features of the Honda or BMW.

Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Undergoing an extensive revision in 2018, the Gold Wing is powered by a SOHC 1,833cc horizontally opposed flat six-cylinder 24-valve engine that pumps out 97.9 hp at 5,500 rpm, but more importantly, 108.4 pound-feet of torque at an amazingly low 1,250 rpm on the CW dyno (these figures are for the manual six-speed transmission model; the DCT Automatic transmission model recorded figures of 90.0 hp at 5,420 rpm and 102.5 pound-feet of torque at 1,370 rpm). The Gold Wing’s flat-six is tuned for instant low-rpm thrust and smoothness, and it delivers in spades as shown by its torque peak at just above idle, with our testers stating, “That kind of grunt means you can slot the transmission in a high gear and pretty much leave it there.” But the Honda revs quickly enough that it can propel the 800-plus-pound tourer with surprising haste if you so desire.

Speaking of transmission, two-thirds of Gold Wing buyers are now opting for the Automatic DCT gearbox (check out Kevin Cameron’s story on the details here), and for good reason. “Tour was the mode of choice here about 96 percent of the time because it matched almost every riding condition with appropriate and expected shift points with just-right ride-by-wire throttle response,” CW Editor-in-Chief Mark Hoyer said in his review of the 2020 Gold Wing Tour DCT model. “DCT is a remarkably great motorcycle automatic transmission system. The mapping is exceptionally thorough and takes into account many elements as it decides when to shift and how to control the engagement of its two clutches (one for odd gears and one for even).”

2022 Honda Gold Wing.

2022 Honda Gold Wing. (Honda/)

Handling

Despite its 800-plus-pound weight and comparatively large size to average motorcycles, the Gold Wing carries itself extremely well. “The chassis and brakes are fully game for all the speed you want,” Hoyer explained in his 2020 Gold Wing Tour DCT review. “Cornering clearance is solid for a full-dress tourer. Steering is light and neutral at all speeds.” The double-wishbone front suspension means that braking into a turn has absolutely no effect on steering effort. The 2018 redesign that made the Gold Wing slimmer, smaller, sportier, and faster was Honda’s way of making its touring flagship more appealing to the younger generation who previously wouldn’t give the bike a second glance.

Brakes

Big 320mm discs and six-piston brake calipers up front and a single 316mm rear disc/single-piston caliper work with Honda’s Combined ABS that features automatic front/rear bias alteration based on chassis pitch and vehicle speed. This means no matter if you use just the front brake lever or rear brake pedal, the braking is always blended to provide secure, excellent braking performance every time. Case in point: The 2020 Gold Wing Tour’s 126.6-foot stopping distance from 60 mph is among the best of any bike CW has tested. “Overall braking performance of the combined ABS is some of the most sure-feeling and confidence-inspiring we have tried,” Hoyer raved in his 2020 Gold Wing Tour DCT review.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The 2019 Gold Wing Tour with standard six-speed transmission achieved 37.1 mpg during a CW comparison test.

Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility

The Gold Wing has always been the benchmark for touring comfort, and the latest model is no exception. The seat/handlebar/footpeg relationship has been crafted for ease of racking up 1,000-mile days, and the fairing coddles the rider in a cocoon of still air (although there are vents to direct airflow on hotter days). In 2021, the passenger accommodations were upgraded, with the backrest angle relaxed slightly with padding and height added to provide even more comfort.

2022 Honda Gold Wing.

2022 Honda Gold Wing. (Honda/)

Electronics

Standard features on both the Gold Wing Tour and Gold Wing include Honda’s Combined ABS setup that is equipped with an additional automatic bias system that changes front/rear brake pressure according to chassis pitch and vehicle speed. Throttle actuation is ride-by-wire, with four ride modes (Tour, Sport, Eco, Rain) with individually tailored throttle response, traction control, and power delivery; cruise control and smart key fobs are also standard on all Gold Wing models. Suspension spring preload can be electronically set to four different settings (single rider, rider with luggage, rider with passenger, and rider/passenger with luggage). Hill start assist momentarily holds the bike in place on an incline if you’ve released the brakes prior to applying throttle. All Gold Wing models come with heated grips and seats (both rider and passenger).

Maneuvering the big Gold Wing into a parking space is aided by the reverse “gear” on the standard transmission models, and “Walking Mode” on the DCT Automatic transmission models that slowly rolls the bike forward or backward. The windscreen is electrically adjustable, with the Tour versions moving through a 4.9-inch range, and the Gold Wings through a 4.1-inch range. And the world’s only production motorcycle equipped with an airbag (the Gold Wing Tour Airbag DCT model) helps prevent rider injuries in the event of a frontal collision.

A full-color 7-inch TFT infotainment display allows you to view your control settings on numerous aspects of the Gold Wing, which now includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility for seamless integration with your smartphone, permitting usage of navigational, music, phone, and other apps via any Bluetooth motorcycle headset. A small, locking compartment just in front of the rider allows storage for your smartphone, along with a USB port for charging. If you prefer to hear your music from the bike’s audio speakers, the Gold Wing’s speakers were upgraded to 55-watt units for even better sound quality. All Gold Wings are equipped with a stand-alone navigation program on the TFT display that will work with or without your smartphone.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

All Honda Gold Wings come with a three-year, transferable, unlimited-mileage warranty. Additional extended coverage up to eight years is available through Honda’s HondaCare Protection Plan.

Quality

It’s a Honda. Meaning that fit and finish are top-shelf, and a company that backs its long-distance touring product with a three-year/unlimited mileage warranty obviously has confidence in the Gold Wing’s build quality.

2022 Honda Gold Wing.

2022 Honda Gold Wing. (Honda/)

2022 Honda Gold Wing/Tour/DCT Claimed Specifications

MSRP: $25,300 (DCT); $28,500 (Tour, manual transmission); $29,500 (Tour DCT); $32,800 (Tour Airbag DCT)
Engine: 1,833cc, SOHC, liquid-cooled, horizontally opposed six-cylinder; 24 valves
Bore x Stroke: 73.0 x 73.0mm
Transmission/Final Drive: 6-speed manual / 7-speed dual-clutch automatic (DCT); shaft
Fuel Delivery: Electronic fuel injection w/ 50mm throttle body
Clutch: Wet, slipper type; hydraulic operation / dual clutch automatic operation (DCT)
Engine Management/Ignition: Ride-by-wire/TCI
Frame: Die-cast twin-spar aluminum chassis
Front Suspension: Hossack-type double-wishbone fork, electronically adjustable; 4.3 in. travel
Rear Suspension: Showa shock, electronically adjustable preload; 4.1 in. travel
Front Brake: Dual 6-piston calipers, dual 320mm discs w/ Combined ABS
Rear Brake: 1-piston floating caliper, 316mm disc w/ Combined ABS
Wheels, Front/Rear: Cast aluminum; 18 x 3.50 in. / 16 x 5.00 in.
Tires, Front/Rear: 130/70-R18 / 200/55-R16
Rake/Trail: 30.5°/4.3 in.
Wheelbase: 66.9 in.
Ground Clearance: 5.1 in.
Seat Height: 29.3 in.
Fuel Capacity: 5.6 gal.
Wet Weight: 804 lb. (DCT) / 843 lb. (Tour) / 845 lb. (Tour DCT) / 853 lb. (Tour Airbag DCT)
Contact: powersports.honda.com

Cycle World Tested Specifications (Gold Wing Tour Automatic DCT)

Seat Height: 29.4 in.
Wet Weight: 845 lb.
Rear-Wheel Horsepower: 90.0 hp @ 5,420 rpm
Rear-Wheel Torque: 102.5 lb.-ft. @ 1,370 rpm
0–60 mph: 4.17 sec.
1/4-mile: 12.91 sec. @ 104.89 mph
Braking 30–0 mph: 35.21 ft.
Braking 60–0 mph: 126.63 ft.

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

Marc Marquez blog: A difficult winter but Sepang Test awaits

“Hello everybody! It’s been a few months since I last shared some time with you and a lot has happened in this time. If I had to choose a word to define my winter I wouldn’t know which one to choose. The truth is that there has been quite a lot of uncertainty, at times it has been a bit chaotic, but perhaps it could be summed up as another difficult winter. At times I didn’t know when I would be able to compete again or if I would be able to compete again as the diplopia injury had recurred. It’s been a really difficult few months, with double vision it’s complicated to live a normal life and I needed to be at home, still, so it was quite uncomfortable.”

Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here

Ducati Horizon V2 modular touring helmet by Drudi

Ducati Horizon V2


The Horizon V2 is Ducati’s high-end touring helmet, combining comfort and practicality, style and safety, in a modular package that ensures a flexible solution for any ride.

Ducati Horizon V2 Modular Helmet

Part of the 2022 apparel collection, Ducati Horizon V2 has graphics designed by Drudi Performance exclusively for Ducati. The helmet transforms from a full-face helmet to a ‘jet’ (Ducati’s words not mine..), helmet by lifting the chin guard.

The outer shell is made of ‘Ultra’ Carbon material combined with aramid and glass fibres, which give the helmet strength and lightness. The Carbon Fitting internal padding with thermoregulating active carbon filaments ensure comfort, while safety is care of the expanded polystyrene of the inner shell to absorb and disperse kinetic energy in the event of an impact.

Ducati Horizon V2 Modular Helmet

The Eyewear Adaptive system allows you to wear the Ultrawide goggles and visor which, with its large surface, offers a large range of visibility to the rider. The included sun visor grants protection from UV rays – up to 400 nm and can be easily disassembled for maintenance and cleaning.

The Horizon V2 helmet is designed and approved for integration with the N-Com B 902X Intercom system to ensure connectivity and this system allows you to manage the mobile phone and its answering, hanging up and last-number redialling functions via Bluetooth, with voice commands and automatic switching between intercom and phone.

Ducati Horizon V2 Modular Helmet

The intercom system is equipped with a Smart Conference function for group communications and for sharing music with both the passenger, and/or another motorcycle when travelling in company.

In the Ducati Apparel collection there is an entire line dedicated to touring include options like the Tour C4 and Atacama C2 jacket and trouser outfits. Both are designed by Aldo Drudi and produced by Ducati following the criteria of lightness, strength and usability.

Ducati Horizon V2 Modular Helmet and Tour C4 Technical Outfit

The Horizon V2 helmet and all the items that make up the Ducati Apparel collection are available at the dealer network of the Borgo Panigale company and on Shop.Ducati.com, with Australian pricing set at $1030.55 + GST (RRP) with availability in April, 2022.

Source: MCNews.com.au

Maxxis unveil Race & Win Rewards program for amateurs

MAXXIS Australia Race & Win


Join the MAXXIS Race & Win Rewards program to earn points towards cash-back offers, tyre give-aways and free merchandise, in this new initiative from Australian Maxxis distributor A1 Accessory Imports.

The all-new, interactive, online rewards program is designed for riders competing at amateur motocross events in 2022. The online rewards program allows you to earn points at each race to unlock exclusive offers and tyre giveaways! Challenge your friends during the year and climb the MAXXIS leaderboard.

Choose any tyre from the all-new MAXXIS motocross range and register online! The MAXXIS all-star line-up includes: Maxxcross MX-SM (Sand/Mud), Maxxcross MX-ST (Race-Spec/Soft Terrain), Maxxcross MX-SI (Soft/Int.), Maxxcross MX-IH (Int./Hard)

MAXXIS Maxxcross MX tyres
How does the program work?

At each event, points are allocated based on the riders overall finishing position and accumulate race-to-race to unlock offers. MAXXIS have engineered the points system to give all riders the opportunity to unlock multiple offers over the season. The higher your position, the faster you can unlock their offers. Riders can earn extra points when racing at any eligible event during the season.

Family & Single Rider Accounts

Racing solo? Create a single rider account for yourself. Track your points and redeem exclusive offers under the one account.

MAXXIS Australia Race & Win Rewards Program 2022

Racing with a full army? Create an account and add multiple family members to your portal. Track points and redeem exclusive offers for each family member.

Eligible Events:

To kickstart the program, MAXXIS have partnered with three major grass-roots events in Queensland and New South Wales. With plans to add more in the future.

  • Queensland:
    • Sunshine State Motocross Championships
    • South East Queensland Junior MX
  • New South Wales:
    • King of MX State Championships

Don’t see your local series on the list? We’d love to hear from you! Send MAXXIS an email to request a series for next year. [email protected]

MAXXIS Australia Race & Win Rewards Program 2022

Register now to receive a MAXXIS hat & factory tyre stickers FREE!

MAXXIS Australia Race & Win Rewards Program 2022

Register here: www.maxxismoto.com.au/race-win

Source: MCNews.com.au

Best Budget-Friendly Beginner Motorcycles 2019

In the real world your first motorcycle should combine the most positive traits that fit your unique needs. You need to consider price, availability, maintenance, and the type of riding you plan to do.

If you are working for strapped for cash, frugal, or simply want to get into motorcycle riding for the cheap, then here are great budget-friendly beginner motorcycles that will get you from point A to point B.

Kawasaki Ninja 250R

Any of these 250 Ninjas between will be dirt cheap, and perfect for a beginner motorcycle.

Any of these 250 Ninjas between will be dirt cheap, and perfect for a beginner motorcycle. (Kawasaki/)

This happens to be the first beginner motorcycle I ever rode and it will forever be etched in my mind as the premier starter bike. Sure, the Rebel is slower and lower so it’s easy to ride, but as an 18-year old guy, it just seemed that the Ninja was way cooler. Plus, the market is saturated with them so you can pick up a good used bike almost anywhere.

Honda Rebel

Right now you can pick up a Honda Rebel for a song in cities across the USA.

Right now you can pick up a Honda Rebel for a song in cities across the USA. (Honda/)

If you want to ride, like the cruiser look, and don’t mind having a top speed of 87 mph, then the Rebel is worth a look. There seems to be a bunch of bobbed Rebels on the market too. So you don’t necessarily have to buy a stock version because customized units are everywhere. Just make sure to take a close look at the bike and maybe pay a local shop to inspect it for you. As long as you get a good one, you’re going to spend many happy miles behind those Rebel bars.

Yamaha V Star 250

They've been around for a while now so the used bike market is starting to warm up.

They’ve been around for a while now so the used bike market is starting to warm up. (yamaha/)

This classic cruiser may not have the name association the bikes above it do, but the V Star models are proven reliable. They are no-nonsense bikes that can take a fair bit of abuse and keep on rolling down the road. Still, you can pick up a 2014 model for anywhere between $1,200 and $1,800. That’s a great deal and they are available in many different cities right now.

Suzuki DR250

This is the quintessential small-displacement dual-sport of its time. It is light, cheap, and gets great mpg for a bike built before the 2000s. These are available all day long for under $2,000.

This is the quintessential small-displacement dual-sport of its time. It is light, cheap, and gets great mpg for a bike built before the 2000s. These are available all day long for under $2,000. (Suzuki/)

Dual sport motorcycles are great beginner bikes because they are made to take some abuse. If you are a taller beginner, or want to do some off-road motorcycling, then the Suzuki DR250 is a great, cheap choice to learn on.

Kawasaki EX500

This bike is basically a big-bore 250 Ninja. It is bigger and obviously a bit more powerful, but overall it is a great beginner bike.

This bike is basically a big-bore 250 Ninja. It is bigger and obviously a bit more powerful, but overall it is a great beginner bike. (Kawasaki/)

They used to be the hottest motorcycle in the newspaper, but once they were phased out of manufacture they lost popularity among new riders. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t a great beginner bike. Low-mileage examples should be under $2,000 and a quick scan online showed many of them still on the market in that price range.

Yamaha FZR400

One of the most coveted track bikes of the '90s is alive and well today.

One of the most coveted track bikes of the ’90s is alive and well today. (Yamaha/)

Now that the craze has resided after 30 years of hoarding by the few folks who didn’t destroy them, the original 400cc supersports are popping up all over the place. Think of this as the holy grail of beginner sportbikes. If you find a clean example for anywhere near $2,000, then grab it up and enjoy the ride. If you are looking for a larger bike, the FZR600 is equally impressive though it may be a little bigger than what the average beginner rider might be willing to deal with. But it’s worth checking out if you find one.

Buell Blast

There was a point when Buell was firing on all cylinders, and at that time it introduced the Blast as the ultimate beginner bike.

There was a point when Buell was firing on all cylinders, and at that time it introduced the Blast as the ultimate beginner bike. (Buell/)

The Blast had its merits and to this day it is a superb starter cycle. Its low seat height, torque-heavy single-cylinder engine, and rudimentary controls have proven to be dang near bulletproof after decades of use. Watch close and you’ll find a Blast for under $2,000 in most major cities.

Suzuki SV650

At one point the demand for SV650 motorcycles far outweighed the supply for these fantastic track bikes. As a result, many of them found their way to the garbage bin after serving time as beginner trackday bikes and racebikes. Their combination of user friendly V-twin power and comfortable ergos was only rivaled by their low price point and bountiful aftermarket products.

At one point the demand for SV650 motorcycles far outweighed the supply for these fantastic track bikes. As a result, many of them found their way to the garbage bin after serving time as beginner trackday bikes and racebikes. Their combination of user friendly V-twin power and comfortable ergos was only rivaled by their low price point and bountiful aftermarket products. (Suzuki/)

You can still see grids full of classic SVs at a racetrack near you, but finding a clean, street-legal version is almost as easy. Just keep your feelers out and, when one pops up, have cash ready because it won’t be around for long if it is in good shape. Expect to pay anywhere in the realm of $2,000 but there are lots of well-used ones for less and just as many pristine versions for a bit more.

Keep in mind that many of these motorcycles are models and eras that I have seen work out great for my buddies. There are quite a few options out there, but most of these are the cream of the crop, so if you stumble across one, grab it before someone else does.

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

Do leather jackets sacrifice comfort for safety?

As I sit here literally sweating over this article in 34C heat and humidity, it’s comforting to know that Australian motorcycle gear ratings authority MotoCAP also rates breathability.

The internationally awarded MotoCAP online safety ratings service not only provides riders with information about the safety of jackets, pants and gloves, but also tests jackets and pants for breathability and comfort in hot conditions.

This is an important primary safety factor. You can’t be a safe rider if you are uncomfortable, dehydrated and distracted by the discomfort of heat.

In the latest round of testing, MotoCAP rates six leather and six textile jackets, with four leather jackets scoring a safety rating of four out of five stars. 

While most riders associate textile jackets with keeping cool while looking daggy and leather jackets with looking cool but feeling hot and sweaty, that is not always the case.

The new ratings reveal the RST TracTech EVO 4 Mesh CE jacket ($A299) scored four stars for safety, but was also awarded a four-star breathability rating and a score of 10 out of 10 for water resistance.

RST TracTech EVO 4 Mesh CE jacket

That shows that you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for safety.

MotoCAP has now tested a total of 415 jackets, gloves and pants, with a recent adjustment to their testing regime that makes it tougher for manufacturers to score well.

Deakin Uni Institute for Frontier Materials Senior Research Fellow and Honda GB400 rider Chris Hurren says the changes are the result of “ongoing tweaking of the system based on new research conducted by Deakin University”.

Chris says these changes mean that accurate ratings are assigned to gear based on the latest research and testing, allowing consumers to make informed decisions on their purchases and increasing their protection on our roads.

The original MotoCAP ratings were developed with the limited information at the time of the risks involved for the hand. 

MotoCAP testing

Dr Chris Hurren explains use of one of the uni’s testing machines ratings
Dr Chris Hurren with one of the uni’s testing machines

All gear tested and rated by MotoCAP is bought covertly.

In 2019, MotoCAP, has won a Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) road safety award.

MotoCAP is a partnership between Transport for NSW, State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA), VicRoads, Transport Accident Commission (TAC), Royal Automobile Club of Victoria (RACV), Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR), Motor Accident Insurance Commission (MAIC), Lifetime Support Authority (LSA), the Department for Infrastructure and Transport, Western Australian Police: Road Safety Commission, Department of State Growth, Insurance Australia Group (IAG), Australian Motorcycle Council and Accident Compensation Corporation in New Zealand.

Testing is carried out by the Deakin University Institute for Frontier Materials on behalf of the MotoCAP partners.

All gear rated so far has been obtained through a secretive buying system to guarantee integrity.

In 2019, MotoCAP won a Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) road safety award.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

New Indian Scout Rogue promises a more sporting feel

2022 Indian Scout Rogue


Indian Motorcycles are welcoming a new Scout to the range in the form of the new Scout Rogue, which with a 19 inch front wheel shod with a more contemporary profile tyre, is likely to sporten up the handling compared to the original.

The new Indian Scout Rogue has broken cover…

MCNews.com.au was never a fan of the fat 16-inch tyres on the original, and the way they made the bike reluctant to turn-in and hold a line, making this change of direction in rubber a welcome one. Most of the popular model’s features are otherwise retained, with a few choice upgrades to set the Rogue apart.

A new 19 inch wheel looks set to sharpen up handling

Those include the fully blacked-out styling, which extends to most of the bike, including the cast wheel combo of 3.50 x 19in front and 3.50 x 16in rear, which will run Metzeler Cruisetec tyres in 130/60 and 150/80 profiles respectively. The rear size remaining unchanged in that regard.

Metzeler Cruisetec tyres are standard fitment, alongside mini-Ape bars

Also standard will be a quarter-fairing, and while a new addition with the Scout Rogue, it will also be available as an accessory to suit older Scout models as far back as 2015, as well as 2018-2022 Scout Bobber models.

A quarter fairing is also standard

The sport style seat is promises plenty of support for rapid take-offs, with a minimalist look and the promise of decent padding for comfort. This will also be available as an accessory for 2018 onward Scout Bobbers.

A single-seat is standard, with a two-up seat an accessory and backrest also available

The final inclusion is a set of mini-Ape bars, offering a taller front end reach for a bit more attitude.

Power is down on paper compared to the 2021 spec sheets, losing six hp compared to the standard Scout

The 1133 cc V-twin powerplant is retained, with power now down to a claimed 70 kW or 94 hp.  The 2021 models claimed an even 100 hp, presumably Euro5 legislation responsible for the few missing ponies. Torque is now 97 Nm, down from the previously claimed 97.7 Nm.

Standard shocks offer 51 mm of travel, with accessory shocks lengthening that and running an external reservoir

Telescopic 41 mm forks continue to adorn the front with 120 mm of travel. The dual rear shocks only offer a short 51 mm of travel and are adjustable for pre-load. With such little travel bumps will likely not prove to be pleasant.

A low 649 mm seat height remains inviting

Dry weight is also down a kilo to 241 kg, with 129 mm of ground clearance and a rake and trail of 29° / 119.9 mm respectively, while the very welcoming 649 mm seat height is unchanged.

Brakes a 298 mm rotors, with a dual piston caliper up front, now dwarfed by the larger wheel

Brakes are a single 298 mm rotor front and rear, with a two-piston front caliper and single-piston rear unit, and ABS is standard fitment. That isn’t a combined brake system either. It’s a lot of bike to be only stopped by a modestly sized single disc.

2022 Indian Scout Rogue – Stealth Grey

The 2022 Indian Scout Rogue will be available in three colour options, pending local availability, Black Smoke Midnight, Sagebrush Smoke and Stealth Grey.

2022 Indian Scout Rogue – Black Smoke

There’s also a range of performance, comfort and tech accessories available, including longer travel shocks with piggyback reservoirs, an auxiliary tachometer, a comfort seat, or Syndicate 2-up seat, or backrest. Luggage is also available.

Aaron Jax – Indian Motorcycle Vice President

“For so many motorcyclists, riding carries a rogue spirit – a bold statement of freedom and individuality that brings riders together – and Scout Rogue delivers that in spades. It’s an attitude that can only be found on a motorcycle, and it creates a totally unique level of camaraderie and community, and that’s what Scout Rogue is all about.”

2022 Indian Scout Rogue – Sagebrush Smoke

2022 Indian Scout Rogue Specifications

2022 Indian Scout Rogue Specifications
Engine Liquid-cooled, V-Twin 60-degree, DOHC, four-valves per cylinder, semi-dry sump
Transmission Six-speed, constant mesh / foot shift
Battery 12 volts, 13 amp/hour, 245 CCA
Bore x Stroke 99 mm x 74 mm
Charging System 35 amp max output
Clutch Wet, multi-plate
Compression Ratio 10.7:1
Cooling System Liquid
Displacement 1133 cc
Exhaust Split dual exhaust with cross-over
Final Drive Belt drive, 141 tooth
Fuel & Capacity 91 octane recommended, 12.5 ltr
Fuel System Electronic fuel injection, closed loop / 60 mm bore
Oil SAE 15W60, 4.3 ltr
Primary Drive Gear drive wet clutch
Horsepower 70kW / 94 hp at 8000 RPM
Peak Torque 97 Nm @ 5600 RPM
Front Suspension Telescopic fork, 41 mm diameter, 120 mm travel
Rear Suspension Dual shocks, 51 mm travel, adjustable
Dry Weight 241 kg
Ground Clearance 129 mm
GVWR 449 kg
Length 2274 mm
Rake/Trail 29° / 119.9 mm
Seat Height 649 mm
Wheelbase 1576 mm
ABS Yes
Front Brake Single 298 mm floating rotor with 2-piston calipers
Rear Brake Single 298 mm floating rotor with 1-piston caliper
Tyres Metzeler Cruisetec 130/60B19 61H, 150/80R-16
Wheels Cast Black 19″ x 3.50″, 16″ x 3.50″
Colours Black Smoke Midnight, Sagebrush Smoke, Stealth Grey

Source: MCNews.com.au

Sepang MotoGP Shakedown Test Day Two Times/Notes/Images

Sepang MotoGP Test Times
Shakedown Day Two

Aprilia’s Maverick Vinales had watched on from the sidelines during the opening day of the Sepang Shakedown but got down to business on day two to top proceedings.

Maverick Vinales

The Aprilia rider able to join the test riders and rookies due to Aprilia’s recent lack of decent results, which allows them various concessions. Vinales was the only rider in the 1m59s. 

Maverick Vinales

Michele Pirro continued to work through Ducati’s comprehensive test program with Gigi Dall’Igna and was second quickest ahead of Mooney VR46 Ducati rookie Marco Bezzecchi, the fastest rookie of the test thus far.

Michele Pirro giving feedback to Gigi Dall’Igna

Raul Fernandez did 55 laps today as he continues to familiarise himself with the vagaries of a MotoGP machine. The 21-year-old only fractionally bettered his Monday time though, a 2m00.819 putting him fourth.

Raul Fernandez

Suzuki test rider Sylvain Guintoli split the two KTM men and somewhat surprisingly is the only Suzuki test rider in attendance. 

Sylvain Guintoli

Remy Gardner was still suffering some discomfort in his wrist after surgery on the break, sustained in a motocross training crash, only a fortnight ago. Nonetheless Gardner put in 43 laps on Tuesday to be sixth quickest. 

Remy Gardner

Darryn Binder again joined Yamaha’s two regular Japanese test riders, Kohta Nozane and Katsuyuki Nakasuga. The South African lopping almost a full second off his Monday time and significantly faster than Yamaha’s test riders. 

Darryn Binder

No Honda rider had been on track for the Monday session due to logistical issues with the bikes not arriving in time. Stefan Bradl got 51 laps in today while wearing the leathers of Pol Espargaro, as his own had still not arrived in Malaysia. 

Stefan Bradl

Gresini’s Fabio Di Giannantonio didn’t take to the track on Tuesday as he felt ill.

Rookies, Concession and Test riders will be again on track today and tomorrow, then there is a break in proceedings before the full complement of MotoGP riders hit the track on February 5.

Sepang Test Times
Shakedown Day Two

  1. Maverick Vinales – Aprilia – 1m59.833

  2. Michele Pirro – Ducati – 2m00.565

  3. Marco Bezzecchi – Ducati – 2m00.734

  4. Raul Fernandez – KTM – 2m00.819

  5. Sylvain Guintoli – Suzuki – 2m01.102

  6. Remy Gardner – KTM – 2m01.177

  7. Darryn Binder – Yamaha – 2m01.297

  8. Stefan Bradl – Honda – 2m01.361

  9. Mika Kallio – KTM – 2m01.923

  10. Lorenzo Savadori – Aprilia – 2m02.043


2022 MotoGP Entry List

2022 MotoGP Entry List
Rider………………………… Nat Team……………………………………………….. Bike
4 Andrea Dovizioso ITALIAN WITHU YAMAHA RNF MotoGP TEAM YAMAHA
5 Johann Zarco FRENCH PRAMAC RACING DUCATI
10 Luca Marini ITALIAN VR46 RACING TEAM DUCATI
12 Maverick Vinales SPANISH APRILIA RACING APRILIA
20 Fabio Quartararo FRENCH MONSTER ENERGY YAMAHA MotoGP YAMAHA
21 Franco Morbidelli ITALIAN MONSTER ENERGY YAMAHA MotoGP YAMAHA
23 Enea Bastianini ITALIAN GRESINI RACING MotoGP DUCATI
25 Raul Fernandez SPANISH TECH3 KTM FACTORY RACING KTM
30 Takaaki Nakagami JAPANESE LCR HONDA IDEMITSU HONDA
33 Brad Binder S-AFRICAN RED BULL KTM FACTORY RACING KTM
36 Joan Mir SPANISH TEAM SUZUKI ECSTAR SUZUKI
40 Darryn Binder S-AFRICAN WITHU YAMAHA RNF MotoGP TEAM YAMAHA
41 Aleix Espargaro SPANISH APRILIA RACING APRILIA
42 Alex Rins SPANISH TEAM SUZUKI ECSTAR SUZUKI
43 Jack Miller AUSTRALIAN DUCATI LENOVO TEAM DUCATI
44 Pol Espargaro SPANISH REPSOL HONDA TEAM HONDA
49 Fabio Digiannantonio ITALIAN GRESINI RACING MotoGP DUCATI
63 Francesco Bagnaia ITALIAN DUCATI LENOVO TEAM DUCATI
72 Marco Bezzecchi ITALIAN VR46 RACING TEAM DUCATI
73 Alex Marquez SPANISH LCR HONDA CASTROL HONDA
87 Remy Gardner AUSTRALIAN TECH3 KTM FACTORY RACING KTM
88 Miguel Oliveira PORTUGUESE RED BULL KTM FACTORY RACING KTM
89 Jorge Martin SPANISH PRAMAC RACING DUCATI
93 Marc Marquez SPANISH REPSOL HONDA TEAM HONDA

2022 Provisional MotoGP Calendar

Date Grand Prix Circuit
06 March Qatar Losail International Circuit
20 March Indonesia Mandalika International Street Circuit
03 April Argentina Termas de Rio Hondo
10 April Americas Circuit of The Americas
24 April Portugal Algarve International Circuit
01 May Spain Circuito de Jerez-Ángel Nieto
15 May France Le Mans
29 May Italy Autodromo del Mugello
05 June Catalunya Barcelona-Catalunya
19 June Germany Sachsenring
26 June Netherlands TT Circuit Assen
10 July Finland KymiRing
07 August Great Britain Silverstone Circuit
21 August Austria Red Bull Ring-Spielberg
04 September San Marino Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli
18 September Aragón MotorLand Aragón
25 September Japan Twin Ring Motegi
02 October Thailand Chang International Circuit
16 October Australia Philip Island
23 October Malaysia Sepang International Circuit
06 November Comunitat Valenciana Comunitat Valenciana-Ricardo Tormo

Images by Dorna

Source: MCNews.com.au

Ana Carrasco confirms Moto3™ move

Carrasco already has three seasons of World Championship experience under her belt, competing in Moto3™ from 2013 to 2015 before moving into the Supersport300 series in 2017. There, she became a World Champion in 2018 on Kawasaki machinery, while she picked up six wins and five further podiums across five seasons in the class.
 
Both Carrasco and Muñoz will be present at the first pre-season tests with the new BOE SKX bike, however, Gerard Riu will ride in the opening seven races of the season in place of Muñoz, with the 15-year-old Spaniard unable to compete until the Italian GP in Mugello.  
 
Ana Carrasco: “Honestly, I am very happy with this opportunity, after five years in the World Supersport300 class, having managed to become World Champion in 2018 and fight for the title in the following years, I think this opportunity is the result of a lot of work well done in recent seasons and that it has come to me in one of the best moments of my career. Moreover, being able to return to Moto3 with this team, along with Carla Grau and Eliseo Escámez, my travelling companions, makes me especially excited as we had worked together in 2015 and I know first-hand that they are a very competitive team. I want to thank all the people who have made my return to the MotoGP paddock possible, the BOE SKX team, all the sponsors and, above all, Jose Angel Gutierrez Boe, for believing in me and betting on me for this season. I’m really looking forward to getting on the bike and finding out how I feel. I am confident that with good work during the preseason we can get to a good level for the first race”.
 
David Muñoz: “I am very happy to race this season with BOE SKX. I am very excited and I want to thank Jose Angel Gutierrez Boe for the opportunity he has given me, now I have to take advantage of this opportunity and give my best. This year we are going to start the season late, we will have to take it easy, there will be circuits where we are better and others where we are worse, but we will always try to be as high as possible. Hopefully, we can fight for the front positions, but we must always go step by step, so little by little the results will come”.
 
Gerard Riu: “I am very happy with the opportunity that BOE SKX gives me to do the first seven races of the season. Everything is new for me, it’s happening very fast these last few days, but I’m very motivated. I hope to learn a lot, especially to progress race after race and to be fighting as high as possible”.
 
Jose Angel Gutierrez Boe: “We are very motivated for this new season. 2022 is going to be a very exciting new challenge and we are ready to give everything on track with our new riders. Finally we can officially announce our line-up for this year in which we have made a clear sporting commitment to the future. Ana Carrasco has been the last incorporation and she returns to our structure as a much more mature rider and as a World Champion. In the case of David Muñoz, we have already confirmed his signing at the end of 2021, and he is a rider in whom we believe a lot, his potential is very high and he will give us great joy. Because of his age, he cannot take part in the first seven races, so he will be replaced by Gerard Riu, another young rider who we believe he can learn a lot with us. We are really looking forward to going out on track”.

Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here