Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team) was under race lap record pace at MotorLand Aragon as the lap times dropped considerably on the second and final morning of MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship testing. The Italian rider went two tenths quicker than the race lap record set last year by Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK), while the #9 finished around three tenths clear of his rivals at the end of the first four-hour session.
Petrucci’s best lap of the morning came on his 26th lap, out of 27, when he set a 1’49.168s. It is comfortably the fastest time of the two-day test so far with the #9 lapping almost three tenths clear of anyone else, while it was around two tenths faster than Razgatlioglu’s race lap record of 1’49.375 set in last year’s Tissot Superpole Race. Iker Lecuona (Team HRC) continued showing his rapid pace at Aragon as he took second place with a 1’49.466s while reigning Champion Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) was third after finding more speed compared to yesterday. Lecuona and Bautista were the busiest riders on track in the morning, completing 58 and 56 laps respectively.
Bautista was directly ahead of Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) in fourth, with the six-time Champion testing for the first time during the two-day test. He posted a best of 1’49.939s to secure fourth place, with Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) taking fifth place after lapping two tenths slower than the #65. Xavi Vierge (Team HRC) once again ensured two Hondas were at the top of the timesheets as he rounded out the top six.
Garrett Gerloff (Bonovo Action BMW) continued his excellent test as he stayed as the lead BMW rider in seventh, lapping Aragon in 1’50.557s. Alex Lowes (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) took eighth as he split his programme across three ZX-10RR machines with the Brit posting a 1’50.600s. He was ahead of BMW trio Loris Baz (Bonovo Action BMW) and the ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team duo of Michael van der Mark and Scott Redding. Only two tenths separated the three BMW riders. Tetsuta Nagashima (Team HRC) rounded out the WorldSBK riders as he posted a 1’51.588s.
Silly season in the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship has been eventful already and one seat that is still up for grabs is the one next to Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) in 2024. Incumbent Michael Ruben Rinaldi has been trying to secure his future with the team but, speaking on day one at the Aragon test, Team Manager Serafino Foti dropped the biggest hint yet that the team have decided on a future without the Italian.
The #21 topped the times on the opening day of the test but has found results hard to come by this season, with a combination of bad luck and poor weekends leaving him languishing seventh in the Riders’ Championship standings, despite taking five podiums. He is behind teammate Bautista as well as two Independent Ducati riders, with Axel Bassani (Motocorsa Racing) fifth and Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team) sixth.
Several names have been linked with Rinaldi’s seat for 2024 including Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team), who currently leads the WorldSSP standings. During the Aragon test, Foti was asked for an update on when a decision would be made and communicated. He stated a final decision would be made in the upcoming days with a goal to announce their line-up at the French Round at the start of September.
Expanding on this, Foti said: “We are really close to a decision. We have a final meeting in the next few days. Our goal will be to announce our line-up at Magny-Cours. To be honest, as I’ve said in the past, Bulega’s one of the best options but we also have other options. We have a clear idea, but we would like to understand really what is the best choice for us. We have a really good relationship with Rinaldi. He’s like a son but racing is racing. He was so fast on day one for us. I hope he can continue with Ducati because we will try to find him a place. The final decision will be made in the next few days.”
Should Bulega get the nod for the WorldSBK seat, it would leave an opening in WorldSSP at the team currently leading the Championship. Like in World Superbike, several riders have been linked with the World Supersport team, but nothing has yet been made official about that seat. When pressed for an update on the WorldSSP situation, Foti refused to name names about their target.
He said: “At this moment, we tried to speak to many riders. A lot of riders also asked about riding in WorldSSP. We need to be honest, and I try to be clear, we have many riders and I try to speak to them. It’s a little bit early but we would also like to define in the next month.”
As evidenced by the popularity of our series of “Best Motorcycles for Smaller Riders” lists on the Buyers Guides section of our website, seat height is an important consideration for riders, and considering the height of most adventure bikes, if there is one place you want to feel planted, it’s coming to a stop – especially with a passenger and full load. As a result, Triumph has announced the Active Preload Reduction for the Tiger 1200 range, which lowers the seat height by up to .78 inch more than even the accessory low seat option. Active Preload Reduction will be available for both new and existing Tiger 1200 owners. For more information, read the press release below.
Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally shown with Active Preload Reduction
Triumph Motorcycles has released a new enhancement to its advanced Showa semi-active suspension across the current Tiger 1200 range, which was first announced in November 2021.
The new Active Preload Reduction feature has been developed to lower the resting seat height by reducing the rear suspension preload as the Tiger 1200 slows.
For the Tiger 1200 GT, GT Pro, and GT Explorer models, there are currently two seat height settings: 33.46 inches (850mm) and 34.52 inches (870mm), while for the Rally Pro and Rally Explorer models these are 34.44 inches (875mm) and 35.23 inches (895mm). When these motorcycles are fitted with the accessory low seat option, the seat position is lowered by an additional .78 inch (20mm), giving a lowest seat height of 32.67 inches (830mm) on the GT family and 33.66 inches (855mm) on the Rally family.
The new Active Preload Reduction feature allows these seat heights to be reduced farther. Depending on the combined weight of the rider, pillion, and luggage this could further lower the height by up to .78 inch (20mm) when the motorcycle comes to a standstill, offering the rider greater ease and confidence. New Tiger 1200 owners will be able to access this new minimum preload feature by simply pressing the ‘Home’ button on the right switch cube for one second, as the feature will now come standard on all new Tiger 1200 motorcycles.
Triumph Tiger 1200 GT shown with Active Preload Reduction
“The new Tiger 1200 range is already a global success, attracting new fans and increasing Triumph’s share of this highly competitive market,” said Steve Sargent, Triumph’s chief product officer. “This new feature can be enabled on the fly, lowering the center of gravity at slower speeds, making it even more accessible, offering riders more confidence at slow speeds and better contact with the ground as they come to stop.”
The new feature will also be available to existing 2023 Tiger 1200 customers via a software update, which can be done by their authorized Triumph dealership during their next scheduled service. There will be no upgrade fee for existing customers to access the new feature, however standard dealership labor rates will apply for the service of the motorcycle.
The all-new Tiger 1200 was designed to be the world’s most capable, agile, and maneuverable large capacity adventure motorcycle, and the range includes the GT family, tailor made for the perfect road-focused adventure ride, and the Rally family, perfect for an all-terrain adventure. The Tiger 1200 GT Explorer with its 7.9-gallon (30 liter) tank was even the bike of choice for Enduro World Champion Ivan Cervantes when he broke the record for riding the farthest in 24 hours on a motorcycle.
Adrian Huertas made his debut on MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship machinery on Tuesday during the MotorLand Aragon test and he was quickly up to speed on the ZX-10RR as he rode with the Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK squad. The Spaniard posted a 1’51.044s in the afternoon session to move into the top three briefly before being overhauled by his competitors but he finished as the lead Kawasaki rider as he took sixth place overall.
Huertas was one of the first riders to hit the track when the green flags waved in the morning, and he completed 50 laps in the first four-hour part of the day. This was the second highest in that session, with only Championship leader Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) and Tetsuta Nagashima (Team HRC) completing more, with 53 and 54 respectively. The #99’s best time in the morning was a 1’52.502s which put him last in the classification but less than two tenths behind Florian Marino, who was also testing for KRT.
In the afternoon, the WorldSSP star immediately improved his time by half-a-second before he found even more time right at the end of his day. He moved into second place after posting a 1’51.044s but, with his day ending earlier than other riders, was demoted to sixth when several other riders found time at the end of the day. In total, the debutant racked up 79 laps on the ZX-10RR and finished around six tenths slower than Michael Ruben Rinaldi’s (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) best time of 1’50.388s. Although a like-for-like comparison isn’t available due to differing conditions and several other variables, his lap time would have put him 19th on the grid in last year’s Aragon Round with two Kawasaki riders behind him.
Reacting to his first day on World Superbike machinery, Huertas said: “It was amazing. I want to thank Kawasaki for the opportunity because it was a really helpful test for me to understand how to ride the bike. It was my first time on a 1000cc bike. It’s incredible. It has a lot of power and I already felt really good. I’m happy overall with the day. I expected to be fast because I consider myself to be a top rider, but I didn’t expect, on the first day at a test on the big bike, to be doing this.”
The 20-year-old is in his second season of WorldSSP action after moving to the Championship the year after he won the 2021 WorldSSP300 crown. In 2022, he finished 12th in the standings with a best finish of seventh but was immediately, and consistently, a points scorer and fighting for the lower end of the top ten. He has built on that in 2023 with two fourth-place finishes and been a regular inside the top five, although his first podium still eludes him. Despite not having a podium to his name yet, Huertas has impressed and was given the chance to test WorldSBK machinery for his 2021 title success and rapid improvement in WorldSSP.
When asked about his future, and whether this test could help him in his quest for WorldSSP success, the Madrid-born rider said: “This test could be really helpful for WorldSSP. Also, it’s an extra motivation and I think, when I go to Magny-Cours, I can fight for the victory. I’m not really looking at WorldSBK for 2024. I’m just focused on World Supersport. I enjoyed the test which was a prize for winning the WorldSSP300 title and for improvement I’m making in WorldSSP.”
Can Huertas claim a first podium in WorldSSP this season? Find out using the WorldSBK VideoPass!
Included in the announcement are the 2024 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT and GT+ sport-tourers; the 2024 GSX-R600, GSX-R1000, GSX-R1000R, and Hayabusa sportbikes; and the 2024 GSX-S1000 and GSX-8S naked sportbikes, the latter of which was introduced last year and is powered by Suzuki’s latest 776 cc parallel-Twin platform. In the adventure bike segment, Suzuki returns with the V-Strom 650 and 1050 range of motorcycles, and rounding out this on-road wave is the Burgman 400 Scooter.
Sport-Touring
2024 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT/GT+
2024 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+ in Candy Daring Red
The 2024 GSX-S1000GT combines the performance of its GSX-R1000-based engine with a nimble, lightweight chassis to provide riders with what Suzuki calls “an exciting and comfortable GT riding experience.” The GT and GT+ are grand tourers with sportbike-level functionality, avant-garde styling, and an extensive selection of optional equipment like integrated side cases.
The GSX-S1000GT has a pair of horizontally arranged LED headlights, a V-shaped position light, and side-mounted LED turn signals that fashion an appearance that is distinctively Suzuki. The GT’s styling continues into the optional side cases and touring windshield for a fully integrated appearance.
2024 Suzuki GSX-1000GT in Glass Sparkle Black
For 2024, the GSX-S1000GT+ is presented in the new Candy Daring Red or the returning Glass Sparkle Black, both with unique GT logos that tie into subframe and wheel colors. MSRP is $14,199. The GSX-S1000GT returns in Glass Sparkle Black starting at $13,449.
Key Features
Full fairing with dual mono-focus LED headlights and V-shaped LED position light.
6.5-inch TFT panel featuring Suzuki’s mySPIN connectivity application that links to a smartphone to provide access to contacts, maps, music, and phone communication. It even pairs with most Bluetooth helmet communication systems.
The 999cc GSX-R-based engine has reported impressive peak power with strong torque in the low- to mid-range and Ride-by-Wire.
The Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS), standard bi-directional quick shift system, and cruise control.
The Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) includes the three-mode Suzuki ride mode selector, the five-mode Advanced Traction Control system, Quick Shift system, and the Easy Start and Low RPM Assist systems.
Sportbikes
2024 Suzuki GSX-R600
2024 Suzuki GSX-R600 in Metallic Matte Black No. 2/Glass Sparkle Black
The GSX-R600 has a compact 599cc 4-cylinder engine, a fully adjustable Showa Big Piston Front Fork (BPF) and remote reservoir rear shock, and twin Brembo monoblock radially mounted front brake calipers grasping fully floating 310mm stainless steel brake rotors. Located between the frame’s spars, the engine’s top end is canted forward to improve cylinder head charging for increased power output. According to Suzuki: “For a rider considering a mid-size sportbike that flashes middleweight performance on the track or the street, there is only one choice: the Suzuki GSX-R600.”
2024 Suzuki GSX-R600 in Pearl Brilliant White/Metallic Triton Blue
Three paint schemes are available for the 2024 GSX-R600 starting at $11,899: Pearl Brilliant White/Metallic Matte Stellar Blue, Pearl Brilliant White/Metallic Triton Blue, or Metallic Matte Black No. 2/Glass Sparkle Black.
2024 Suzuki GSX-R600 in Pearl Brilliant White/Metallic Matte Stellar Blue
Key Features
The twin-spar aluminum frame connects the steering head with the swingarm pivot portion of the chassis in a way that balances light weight and strength. The engine is suspended below the frame to keep mass low and the wheelbase short to promote nimble handling.
The Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (S-DMS) lets the rider adjust the engine’s power delivery to suit the riding conditions.
2024 Suzuki GSX-8S
2024 Suzuki GSX-8S in the new Glass Matte Mechanical Gray
Introduced for 2023, the 2024 Suzuki GSX-8S naked sporbike has a compact 776cc parallel-Twin that uses a 270-degree firing order and is equipped with Suzuki’s exclusive Cross Balancer system. Suzuki calls the GSX-8S “the ideal response to rider demands in the mid-size naked street bike category.”
A color 5-inch TFT LCD multifunction instrument panel provides the rider access and on-the-fly control over the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) suite of advanced electronic control systems that includes Suzuki Drive Mode Selector, the four-mode Suzuki Traction Control System, the bi-directional Quick Shift system, and Easy Start and Low RPM Assist systems.
2024 Suzuki GSX-8S in Pearl Cosmic Blue
Starting at $8,999, the 2024 Suzuki GSX-8S comes in Pearl Cosmic Blue, Metallic Matte Black No. 2/Glass Sparkle Black, or the new Glass Matte Mechanical Grey.
2024 Suzuki GSX-8S in Metallic Matte Black No. 2
Key Features
Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS), KYB suspension, and ABS-equipped Nissin radial-mounted 4-piston brake calipers with dual brake rotors
A sporty yet ergonomically comfortable riding position
2024 Suzuki GSX-R1000 and R1000R
2024 Suzuki GSX-R1000 in the new Glass Matte Mechanical Gray
Suzuki introduced the original GSX-R750 in 1985 and then proceeded to gain multiple road racing championships around the world before creating another milestone in 2001 with the introduction of the GSX-R1000.
At the pinnacle of the GSX-R family of ultra-high-performance sportbikes, the 2024 GSX-R1000R’s versatile engine provides power that is delivered smoothly and controllably across a broad rpm range. Like the original GSX-R1000, the 2024’s compact chassis delivers nimble handling with excellent suspension feel and braking control. Advanced electronic rider aids such as traction control, launch control, and a bi-directional quickshifter enhance the riding experience.
2024 Suzuki GSX-R1000 in Metallic Matte Black No. 2/Glass Sparkle Black
The GSX-R1000R is equipped with Showa’s BFF and BFRC-Lite suspension components. For stopping power up front, radially mounted Brembo monoblock 4-piston calipers fed by stainless steel brake lines grasp a pair of 320mm Brembo T-drive floating brake rotors.
2024 Suzuki GSX-R1000R in the new Glass Matte Mechanical Gray
The 2024 GSX-R1000R is available in a new Glass Matte Mechanical Gray paint scheme with dark red wheels or the popular Metallic Matte Black No. 2/Glass Sparkle Black scheme with new, bright blue graphics on the fairing and on the black wheels. Both paint schemes are accented by gold-anodized suspension components.
2024 Suzuki GSX-R1000R in Metallic Matte Black No. 2/Glass Sparkle Black
The GSX-R1000R is also available in 2024 in a race-inspired Pearl Brilliant White/Metallic Triton Blue paint scheme with bright blue wheels and blue-anodized suspension components. MSRP is $18,499.
2024 Suzuki GSX-R1000R in Pearl Brilliant White/Metallic Triton Blue
The 2024 GSX-R1000 starts at $16,349 in a new Glass Matte Mechanical Gray paint scheme with dark red wheels or the popular Metallic Matte Black No. 2/Glass Sparkle Black scheme with new bright blue graphics on the fairing and on the black wheels.
Key Features
Inline-Four with DOHC and the Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system, as well as a 4-2-1 exhaust with a revised muffler and heat shield.
Electronics include an IMU, adjustable traction control, the Suzuki bi-directional Quick Shift system, and Suzuki Drive Mode Selector, plus the GSX-R1000R–specific Motion Track Anti-Lock Brake and Launch Control systems.
The GSX-R1000R–specific black background LCD multifunction instrument panel was inspired by the GSX-RR MotoGP dash.
Fairing houses a bright LED headlight with eyebrow position lights above the Suzuki Ram Air Direct ducts that feed the engine’s electronic throttle bodies.
2024 Suzuki GSX-S1000
2024 Suzuki GSX-S1000 in the new Metallic Matte Sword Silver
The 2024 GSX-S1000 naked sportbke has a 999cc engine based on the GSX-R1000 and produces claimed high peak power with strong torque in the low- to mid-range. The bike has upright streetfighter ergonomics, a twin-spar aluminum frame, and fully adjustable KYB suspension, while braking comes from ABS-equipped Brembo monoblock 4-piston calipers with dual 310mm floating discs in front and a Nissin 1-piston caliper squeezing a 240mm disc in the rear.
Two available body colors – Metallic Triton Blue with white accents or the new Metallic Matte Sword Silver with red accents – combine with modern logos for a starting MSRP of $11,699.
2024 Suzuki GSX-S1000 in Metallic Triton Blue
Key Features
A stacked mono-focus LED headlight assembly and angular styling that includes MotoGP-inspired winglets for an aggressive naked sportbike stance.
Ride-by-Wire, Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS), and bi-directional Quick Shift system.
The GSX-S1000 uses the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) with a three-mode Suzuki Drive Mode Selector and the five-mode Advanced Traction Control System plus the Easy Start and Low RPM Assist systems.
2024 Suzuki Hayabusa
2024 Suzuki Hayabusa in Metallic Thunder Gray/Candy Daring Red
The 2024 version of Suzuki’s flagship sportbike celebrates its 25th anniversary of production this year. The Hayabusa is propelled by an 1,340cc inline-Four with DOHC and housed managed by the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) Suzuki says the engine’s adjustable power delivery, traction control, cruise control, launch control, quick shift, and Motion Track ABS and Combined Brake systems “offer the Hayabusa rider unmatched options on how they want their ride to unfold.”
For 2024, in addition to the recently announced 25th Anniversary Hayabusa, riders may choose from Metallic Thunder Gray/Candy Daring Red or the deep, dark Metallic Matte Black/Glass Sparkle Black combination starting at $19,099.
2024 Suzuki Hayabusa in Metallic Matte Black No. 2/Glass Sparkle Black
Key Features
Ride-by-Wire electronic throttle bodies with dual fuel injectors feeding each cylinder, mixing with pressurized air from the Suzuki Ram Air Direct (SRAD) intakes in the nose of the aerodynamic fairing. The symmetrical twin silencer exhaust system is lighter than previous generations with better flow and an exciting exhaust note.
The Hayabusa’s superbike-caliber, twin-spar aluminum frame reportedly delivers a stable ride with nimble handling that can be personalized through the adjustable KYB-supplied suspension.
The Hayabusa employs an advanced version of the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.): a comprehensive collection of electronic rider aids like cruise control and bi-directional Quick Shift systems. Only the Hayabusa offers this premium suite of riding aids.
Adventure Bikes
2024 Suzuki V-Strom 650
2024 Suzuki V-Strom 650 in Solid Iron Gray
Suzuki says its V-Strom 650 models are “renowned for versatility, reliability, and value.” The 2024 V-Strom 650 has a liquid-cooled 645cc 90-degree V-Twin and rides on lightweight 10-spoke cast wheels shod with adventure-spec Bridgestone Battlax 19-inch front and 17-inch rear tubeless radial tires.
The adventure bike has 6.7 inches of ground clearance, and a spring-preload-adjustable 43mm front fork and link-type rear suspension are combined with a rebound damping adjustment and hand-operated spring preload adjuster.
The 2024 Suzuki V-Strom 650 comes in Solid Iron Gray starting at $9,199.
Key Features
Suzuki’s Advanced Traction Control system, Easy Start system and Low RPM Assist feature.
2-piston brake calipers and dual 310mm discs up front and a single-piston caliper and 260mm disc in the rear, plus standard ABS.
Vertically stacked headlights and adjustable windshield.
2024 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT and 650XT Adventure
2024 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT Adventure in Pearl Vigor Blue/Pearl Brilliant White
The Suzuki V-Strom 650XT and 650XT Adventure feature the same liquid-cooled 645cc 90-degree V-Twin, suspension, and braking as the V-Strom 650 but take the off-road capability up a notch with anodized aluminum spoked wheels, hand guards, and a protective lower engine cowl. The V-Strom 650XT Adventure is equipped with Suzuki’s ADV-style 37-liter black aluminum side cases, as well as mirror extensions and a handlebar cross-brace that can be used to mount accessories like a GPS.
The 2024 Suzuki V-STROM 650XT comes in Glass Sparkle Black bodywork with new gray and gold graphics to complement the gold-anodized aluminum rims starting at $9,699.
2024 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT in Glass Sparkle Black
The V-STROM 650XT Adventure is clad with Pearl Vigor Blue/Pearl Brilliant White paint with blue graphics and blue-anodized aluminum rims starting at $10,899.
Key Features
Suzuki’s Advanced Traction Control system, Easy Start system, and Low RPM Assist feature.
ADV fairing with vertically stacked headlights and adjustable windshield.
Integrated mount points on the chassis for Suzuki’s accessory family of V-Strom luggage.
2024 Suzuki V-Strom 1050
2024 Suzuki V-Strom 1050 in Glass Blaze Orange/Glass Sparkle Black
The 2024 V-Strom 1050 adventure-touring bike has a 1,037cc V-Twin that Suzuki says produces “great horsepower, all while retaining its strong pull in the lower-rpm range and good fuel economy.” It has 6.5 inches of clearance and rides on cast aluminum wheels shod with a 19-inch front and 17-inch rear Bridgestone Battlax Adventure A41 radial tires.
The Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) includes standard cruise control, Suzuki’s bi-directional Quick Shift system, and the Motion Track Brake system that activates cornering ABS. A full-color 5-inch TFT LCD multi-function instrument panel displays the bike’s operating status and S.I.R.S. settings.
The 2024 Suzuki V-Strom 1050 will be available in a new Glass Blaze Orange and Metallic Matte Black No. 2 paint scheme starting at $15,299.
Key Features
Fully adjustable inverted fork, link-style rear shock, and hand-operated, hydraulic spring preload adjuster.
Radially-mounted 4-piston brake calipers grasping dual 310mm discs up front and a 2-piston caliper and 260mm disc in the rear.
A USB port to the side of the instrument panel supplies power for smartphones or other accessories like a GPS.
2024 Suzuki V-Strom 1050DE and 1050DE Adventure
2024 Suzuki V-Strom 1050DE Adventure in Pearl Vigor Blue /Pearl Brilliant White
The 2024 V-Strom 1050DE models also have a 1,037cc V-Twin engine but ride in a chassis with 7.5 inches of ground clearance and 21-inch front and 17-inch rear spoke-style wheels with Dunlop Trailmax Mixtour adventure tires. Compared to the base V-STROM 1050, the DE has a longer rake and wheelbase for better handling on gravel roads and dirt trails, a longer suspension stroke to better absorb bumps on rough surfaces, as well as wide steel foot pegs and a large diameter tapered aluminum handlebar.
A 5-inch color TFT LCD multi-function instrument panel displays the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) settings that include a Gravel (G) mode in the Suzuki Traction Control System and the ability to switch off the rear ABS, as well as the bi-directional Quick Shift system. The V-STROM 1050DE further emphasizes the aggressive look of its Suzuki Dakar-inspired styling with its unique front fender, aluminum engine protector, and rugged accessory bar.
The V-Strom 1050DE Adventure is equipped with Suzuki’s black aluminum side case set with 37 liters of capacity and an LED fog lamp set. The V-Strom 1050DE Adventure is available in Pearl Vigor Blue and Pearl Brilliant White body colors starting at $17,799.
The V-Strom 1050DE comes in Glass Sparkle Black/Metallic Matte Black starting at $16,199.
2024 Suzuki V-Strom 1050DE in Glass Sparkle Black/Metallic Matte Black
Key Features
Fully adjustable inverted fork with 6.7 inches of travel, link-style monoshock with 6.6 inches of travel, 4-piston brake calipers that grasp dual 310mm discs in front, and a single-piston caliper and 260mm disc in the rear.
USB port to the side of the instrument panel supplies power for smartphones or other accessories like a GPS.
Scooter
2024 Suzuki Burgman 400
The 2024 Suzuki Burgman 400 features a 400cc Single with DOHC and four valves powering a CVT automatic transmission. It has Suzuki’s dual-spark technology ignition system, and like the systems used on Suzuki’s Hayabusa and GSX-S1000GT, the Burgman features a rider-selectable Traction Control system and Suzuki’s Easy Start system.
The 2024 Suzuki Burgman 400 comes in a Metallic Matte Sword Silver paint scheme with blue wheels for $8,699.
Key Features
Spacious under-seat storage and two front compartments with a DC power outlet.
Triple-disc brakes (two 260mm discs up front and a single 210mm disc in the rear) with standard Suzuki ABS.
For more information on these 2024 models, visit the Suzuki website.
Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) concluded day one of the MotorLand Aragon test on top by just over two tenths ahead of Xavi Vierge (Team HRC) as the first day of action came to an end. A little over three tenths separated the top three on a closely-packed day but all eyes were on Adrian Huertas, riding with the Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK, as the WorldSBK debutant stunned the field in the afternoon to briefly appear in the top three.
ELECTRONIC TESTING AT DUCATI: working with new rev limits…
Ducati ended day one on top with Rinaldi securing first place as the #21 looked to work on the setup of the Panigale V4 R for the upcoming Aragon Round, while also testing some updates to the electronics. His best time was a 1’50.388s, set in the afternoon, while he also racked up 68 laps. Teammate Alvaro Bautista was seventh as he, like Rinaldi, focused on preparing for the round while testing some parts that could be used during the final four rounds of 2023. The reigning Champion set a best lap of 1’51.105s, improving his time slightly in the afternoon, as he completed 90 laps; the most of anyone.
Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team) was the sole Independent Ducati rider out on track today, and he secured himself a top-three finish. Completing 51 laps and setting a best time of 1’50.619s, the #9 was one of only four riders to lap in the 1’50s bracket on day one. He had hoped to continue trying a new lower seat on his bike, while he had also been asked to try some new engine brake settings on Ducati’s electronics.
HONDA SHOW STRONG PACE: Lecuona, Vierge impress; Nagashima testing with the factory team
Xavi Vierge (Team HRC) was the lead Honda rider on the opening day of action as he took second in the combined classification. His best time was set in the afternoon and was a 1’50.619s while the #97 also completed 74 laps. He was two places and around three tenths faster than teammate Iker Lecuona, with the #7 fast throughout the day. Until the closing stages of the afternoon session, the Spaniard had been on top before being overhauled by Rinaldi, Vierge and Petrucci. Meanwhile, Team HRC also had Tetsuta Nagashima on track with the Japanese rider finishing 12th in the classification after setting a 1’51.988s. He did, however, complete 85 laps; the second-highest number.
A LONG LIST OF ITEMS FOR KAWASAKI: Huertas shows his potential at Aragon
Debutant Huertas shone under the Spanish sun on Tuesday as he secured fifth in the afternoon, and sixth overall. On lap 28 of 29 in the second session, the WorldSSP racer posted a 1’51.044s to go second before other riders overhauled him. It was a strong debut for the 2021 WorldSSP300 Champion as he recorded 79 laps and finished almost over half-a-second clear of development rider Florian Marino. Kawasaki opted to save race riders Alex Lowes and Jonathan Rea’s final allocated day of testing until Wednesday, with KRT having a list of 20 items to test; some for 2023 and some for next year. KRT will evaluate with Marino which items are for the present and which are for the future.
GERLOFF ON TOP AT BMW: all four riders closely matched
German manufacturer BMW had four riders at Aragon with Garrett Gerloff (Bonovo Action BMW) the fastest, in fifth, despite it being his first time at the circuit on the M1000RR machine. The American completed 80 laps and set a best time of 1’51.031s. Scott Redding (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) was the fastest factory BMW rider as he took eighth. He completed 58 laps, the fewest of all BMW riders, but was able to finish around a tenth clear of teammate Michael van der Mark in tenth place. Loris Baz (Bonovo Action BMW) was 11th overall with a 1’51.980s; the #76 completed 76 laps on day one.
BULEGA LEADS MACKENZIE: the #11 on top on day one
In WorldSSP, Championship leader Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team) led the way ahead of Tarran Mackenzie (PETRONAS MIE Racing Honda Team). Bulega completed 56 laps with a best time of 1’55.369s while the most recent race winner in the Championship was around two seconds slower. Mackenzie did 53 laps on his Honda machine.
The top six from day one at Aragon:
1. Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’50.388s, 68 laps
2. Xavi Vierge (Team HRC) 1’50.619s, 74 laps
3. Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team) 1’50.700s, 51 laps
4. Iker Lecuona (Team HRC) 1’50.950s, 48 laps
5. Garrett Gerloff (Bonovo Action BMW) 1’51.031s, 80 laps
6. Adrian Huertas (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) 1’51.044s, 79 laps
Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) was the fastest rider on day one of testing at MotorLand Aragon as he headed the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship field by just over two tenths. The Italian was strong throughout Tuesday’s running as he worked on refining his Panigale V4 R, eventually claiming top spot after a rapid late lap in the afternoon moved him to first place.
The #21 completed 38 laps in the first four-hour session and finished on top in the morning after posting a 1’50.818s, pipping Iker Lecuona (Team HRC) by just over a tenth. In the afternoon, Rinaldi added another 30 laps to his total and found half-a-second on his morning time. He set a 1’50.388s to claim first place in both the afternoon and overall. Once again, he was directly ahead of a Honda rider but this time it was Xavi Vierge (Team HRC) with the Spaniard around two tenths back from the Ducati rider.
Rinaldi’s focus was partially on the upcoming Aragon Round as he worked on the setup of his V4 R machine, while there was also an element of trying to understand the bike, and refining it, following two 250-rpm reductions this season. The five-time podium finisher in 2023 also had electronics update to test, although there were no new parts on the bike. Ducati, however, did bring more sensors to collect more information about the physical movement on the bike.
Reviewing the test after securing top spot, Rinaldi said: “After the long break, we’re back on track and I’m so happy about that because I missed it. Today was a really important day because we tried many things, but the grip was low, so the feeling wasn’t that good. We were able to try a lot of things to improve. It was a busy day. I felt the rpm reduction. There’s no grip today so maybe that doesn’t help our situation. If, in the race, we have this kind of grip, I will feel the lower rpm. Maybe if we have more grip, we will feel this problem less.
“It’s corner exit and the end of the straight. The problem is that we need to put one more tooth on the sprocket to not touch the limiter at some parts of the track. That means, when you open the throttle exiting corners, you have lower rpm and the power there is less. With no grip, you feel it a lot. We need to try to find something. This is why we worked a lot today.”
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Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) surged to the top of the times on the first morning of testing at MotorLand Aragon as some of the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship field headed to Spain. The Italian finished just over a tenth clear of his rivals to secure first place on Tuesday morning with the #21 one of only three riders to lap in the 1’50s bracket. He was ahead of Iker Lecuona (Team HRC), who had been looking good for top spot right until the end of the session, and Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team) in third.
Rinaldi had been outside the top three as the first session concluded but two fast laps, including his best of 1’50.818s, moved him up the order. He first moved into third place before jumping up to first ahead of Lecuona. The #7’s best time was 0.132s slower than Rinaldi but came shortly after Honda made some changes to the rider positioning on the CBR1000 RR-R. Petrucci took third place, 0.150s down on Rinaldi, with the #9 helping the factory Ducati team with their testing programme. The top three were the only riders in the 1’50s bracket.
Reigning Champion Alvaro Bautista’s (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) best time was 1’51.179s to claim fourth, 0.361s down on his teammate. Garrett Gerloff (Bonovo Action BMW) finished as the lead BMW rider on Tuesday morning as he secured fifth, with the top five separated by less than 0.5s. Xavi Vierge (Team HRC) ensured both of Honda’s race riders were in the top six as he posted a 1’51.304s, less than half-a-second down on his teammate’s best time.
Seventh belonged to Michael van der Mark (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) as the Dutchman continues to find full fitness following his comeback at Most, with the #60 directly ahead of teammate Scott Redding. Van der Mark’s best time was a 1’51.789s with Redding 0.157s slower. Loris Baz (Bonovo Action BMW) made it a hat-trick of BMW riders between seventh and ninth as he took the latter position, around a tenth down on Redding. Florian Marino (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) completed the top ten with a 1’52.373s.
Adrian Huertas got his first taste of MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship machinery on Tuesday at MotorLand Aragon as he deputises at the Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK outfit for their first of two testing days at the Spanish venue. The 2021 WorldSSP300 Champion has impressed in WorldSSP since his graduation with MTM Kawasaki and KRT Team Manager, Guim Roda, explained why Huertas is testing for the team at Aragon.
The 20-year-old made his WorldSSP debut in 2022 and has worked his way into being a regular top-ten finisher, with a best result of fourth, although the elusive first podium still waits for the Madrid-born rider. His WorldSSP debut came in 2022 after he secured the 2021 WorldSSP300 title with six wins in 16 races, beating Tom Booth-Amos (Motozoo ME AIR Racing) and teammate Jeffrey Buis to the crown in a dramatic season-long fight.
Huertas has now been testing Kawasaki’s WorldSBK-spec machine at Aragon as a reward for his evolution, jumping straight into WorldSBK action with the factory team that has enjoyed so much success in recent years with Jonathan Rea. The Spaniard will test for one of the two days before race riders Rea and Alex Lowes return to their seats, with Huertas riding alongside KRT’s development rider, Florian Marino, on Tuesday.
Explaining why KRT opted to call up Huertas, Roda said: “We have a plan to test two days to take the opportunity from the track reservation, but we cannot test with Jonny or Alex due to the rules. We only have one day available with them, and we decided to use this day on Wednesday. Because we were already here and working like this during the year, we’re going to use Florian as a test rider. He’ll test some ideas and check some items to see how they work, and then implement them with Jonny and Alex.
“At the same time, we’re using the opportunity with one day extra and one crew chief available. At Most, we spoke with Kawasaki Europe about giving Adrian a chance to test the bike as a gift for the good job he’s done and how he’s evolving. We’re curious about how he’s able to ride the WorldSBK bike. There are more teams aside from Kawasaki with the possibility to bring through young riders. This is more about giving him a gift and then, after that, we can decide in the Kawasaki family whether we can continue helping him to grow up as a rider.”
Huertas has enjoyed a rapid rise through the ranks inside the WorldSBK paddock, turning into a consistent challenger in WorldSSP in just over a season – including some time he spent recovering from a back injury sustained in Australia at the start of 2023. The test caps off a memorable couple of seasons for the #99 and he will be hoping he puts in a strong showing for Kawasaki as he looks to continue his climb through the paddock.
After a mid-season break in the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship action, bikes return to the track at MotorLand Aragon on Tuesday and Wednesday for a two-day test. Swapping beaches for bikes, plenty of riders will travel to Spain for testing to get back up to speed ahead of the French Round in September. Four of the five factory teams will be present at Aragon, with each day split into two four-hour sessions for everyone to refine their packages.
Championship leader Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) will be alongside teammate Michael Ruben Rinaldi. Ducati’s plan involves spending some time focusing on the upcoming Aragon Round as well as looking at some little details that the Italian manufacturer would like to test with a view to the future. It also gives the team a chance to refine their bike following two 250-rpm reductions in the 2023 season.
After a strong run of form towards the end of the first part of the season, Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team) will be full of confidence as he gets back on his Panigale V4 R machine at the test. The Italian is one of a handful of Independent Ducati riders at the test, with Axel Bassani (Motocorsa Racing) and Philipp Oettl (Team GoEleven) also opting to ride at the Spanish circuit.
Ducati will be joined by the Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK outfit who, for the second time in two months, venture to Aragon for some hot-weather testing with their ZX-10RR. Both Jonathan Rea and Alex Lowes will be at the circuit for the two-day test as they look to end what has been a challenging 2023 campaign on a strong footing to give them a boost heading into next season. KRT will be looking to confirm previously tested items, to ensure the direction is correct, while also looking at the future. Kawasaki will have a split programme at the test, with development rider Florian Marino and WorldSSP star Adrian Huertas riding on Tuesday before Rea and Lowes take over on Wednesday.Race riders Rea and Lowes only have one day of their allocated ten remaining, while Huertas will test WorldSBK machinery as a reward for his 2021 WorldSSP300 title success and his ever-improving WorldSSP performances and results since 2022.
While most riders have enjoyed a break, Iker Lecuona (Team HRC) and teammate Xavi Vierge have been keeping busy. Between them, they’ve raced in MotoGP™ and the Suzuka 8 Hours since the Czech Round and their busy schedule has no signs of abating. Honda will be at the Aragon Test as they look to find their way back into podium contention, while it will give Vierge and Lecuona a chance to re-adapt to WorldSBK-spec machinery after their exploits in MotoGP™ and in Japan.
BMW will be the fourth manufacturer on track, with ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team duo Scott Redding and Michael van der Mark leading the German manufacturer’s testing programme. The two-day test gives the Dutchman a chance to get closer to full fitness after making his return at the Autodrom Most. BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director Marc Bongers confirmed there’d be new items on the chassis during the test as the German manufacturer looks to become a regular podium contender. Garrett Gerloff (Bonovo Action BMW) and teammate Loris Baz, fresh from their success with the team in the German championship, will also be at Aragon.
From WorldSSP, there will be plenty of riders taking to the track. Championship leader Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team) will be on his Panigale V2 as he looks to prepare for the final part of the season. PTR Triumph will take to the track too, having recently announced Ondrej Vostatek as their rider alongside Niki Tuuli for the final four rounds of 2023, while the most recent winners in WorldSSP, the PETRONAS MIE Racing Honda Team, will have Most Race 2 winner Tarran Mackenzie and Adam Norrodin at the test.
