WorldSBK heads to 2024 EICMA show with big presence in Milan

While the 2024 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship season is done and dusted, some of the paddock will head to EICMA next week for an epic display of machines, teams, and riders. The annual show in Milan is where many motorcycle fans gather to spot their favourite riders and bikes and this year is no exception, with plenty of WorldSBK related stands to check out during the incredible exhibition.

Race winners in 2024, Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team) and Andrea Iannone (Team GoEleven), will take to the WorldSBK Paddock Show stage to talk all things WorldSBK, with ‘The Maniac’ fresh from his MotoGP™ return at Sepang in the books. WorldSBK rookie Yari Montella will also be there as he prepares for his first season on the Panigale V4 R alongside the experienced Petrucci. Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) will also take to the stage as he gears up for a second WorldSBK campaign, after an up-and-down maiden 2024 season.

Two-time WorldSBK Champion Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) will also take to the stage, as will teammate Nicolo Bulega after his stellar rookie campaign. Kove’s Julio Garcia (KOVE Racing Team) and Marc Garcia, fresh from the former’s Jerez win, will also be there as well Britain’s Ryan Vickers (Team Motocorsa Racing) plus many others.

Elsewhere, 2024 WorldWCR runner-up Maria Herrera (Klint Forward Factory Team) will be at the show as well Daniel Mogeda (Team#109 Retro Traffic Kawasaki) and, from the team, after their race winning WorldSSP300 campaign. The paddock show will also have lots of interactive elements, as it does at the circuit, with games, presentations, quizzes and much more for WorldSBK fans to enjoy in Italy.

Expect more riders and teams to attend EICMA for the 81st edition of the show, which marks the 110th anniversary of the incredible show. Check out more about the show and ticket information HERE.

Keep updated with news and interviews from EICMA using the WorldSBK VideoPass!

Source: WorldSBK.com

Iannone on his ‘beautiful’ MotoGP™ return: “When I called Vale back, he had one question for me… I decided immediately!”

Andrea Iannone (Team GoEleven) had a stellar rookie MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship campaign, but his season is lasting at least one more event as he makes a stunning but unexpected return to MotoGP™. ‘The Maniac’ is replacing Fabio Di Giannantonio at the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team at the Malaysian Grand Prix, five years after his last appearance in the Championship. Speaking on Thursday at Sepang, the #29 revealed how his return came about, including a missed call from Valentino Rossi, and what he’s expecting to achieve.

Iannone’s last MotoGP™ race was in 2019 at the Valencian Grand Prix after he was sanctioned by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) following a violation of an anti-doping rule after a positive test for a banned substance in the Malaysian GP of that year, coming in from December 17th, 2019. He was subsequently banned for four years but made his motorcycle racing comeback this year in WorldSBK and proved he still had all the raw speed and talent despite so long away from the track.

He claimed a rostrum in his first race at Phillip Island and stood on the podium five times in total, including a famous Race 1 win at Aragon which ended an eight-year drought for the Italian; his last win had been the 2016 Austrian Grand Prix. It’s been a remarkable 2024 for Iannone and it got better on the Friday at Jerez, when he received a call from nine-time World Champion Rossi, asking him if he wanted to replace Di Giannantonio after the Italian underwent surgery on his shoulder.

Discussing how his return to MotoGP™ happened, Iannone revealed he actually missed Rossi’s initial call to start with. He said: “During the flight to Jerez, Vale called me, but my phone was off. When I arrived at Jerez, I turned on my phone and I saw a message from Vale: ‘Andrea, I called you, but your phone is off. When you see the message, call me back please’. When I called him back, he had one question for me: ‘do you want to ride the bike in the last two races because Diggia’s having surgery?’. I didn’t decide in one second, but immediately! I think it’s a good story, a beautiful story.”

A lot has changed in MotoGP™ since Iannone last competed as bikes and tyres have evolved with technological enhancements. Iannone alluded to this when discussing his expectations for the weekend, which he also played down due to the amount of time he’s been away from the Championship. For this weekend, he’ll be on the GP23 which ‘Diggia’ has ridden to a best of fourth place at the TT Circuit Assen.

On his return to the paddock and expectations, Iannone said: “Everything is strange but really good! Honestly, I don’t have a lot of words because I’m full of emotion. I’m really happy to be here. I’m emotional because tomorrow I’ll finally try the bike one more time. I think it’s strange because the bike’s changed a lot but I’m curious. I don’t know what to expect because the bike’s changed a lot, in many areas. I don’t want to think a lot like this. I want to go on the bike, start to ride and see what happens.”

Follow all the WorldSBK off-season action using the WorldSBK VideoPass!

Source: WorldSBK.com

2025 BMW M 1000 RR, S 1000 RR, M 1000 R, and S 1000 R Preview

2025 BMW M 1000 RR
2025 BMW M 1000 RR in Black Storm (left) and Light White (right).

BMW Motorrad has announced updates to the BMW M 1000 RR, S 1000 RR, M 1000 R, and S 1000 R for 2025, including engine changes, additional standard electronics, and improved aerodynamics. All four models benefit from a few common upgrades, while each model gets its own tweaks for better performance on track or street. 

Common to all four models is the addition of the M Quick-Action Throttle with a reduced rotation angle from 72 degrees to 58 degrees. BMW claims this reduced angle allows for relaxed throttle control without the rider needing to reposition their hand or wrist when dialing in full throttle. The M RR, S RR, and M R also get revised winglets for more downforce at high speeds. 

Pricing for these models has not yet been announced. 

2025 BMW M 1000 RR 

The BMW M 1000 RR’s inline-Four is revised for 2025, although peak power and torque remain the same at 205 hp at 13,000 rpm and 83 lb-ft at 11,000, with max engine speed remaining at 15,100 rpm. Changes include newly designed full-shaft titanium valves, an increased compression ratio from 13.4:1 to 14.5:1, new oval-shaped intake and exhaust ports, an adapted airbox geometry, a modified combustion chamber shape, and the throttle bodies growing from 48 to 52mm. Like the other models in this announcement, the M 1000 RR now meets Euro 5+ emissions standards. 

2025 BMW M 1000 RR
Revised winglets produce stronger downforce at high speeds.

The bike’s carbon-fiber M winglets have been revised to produce more downforce, both with the bike upright and while leaning. BMW claims downforce load at 186 mph is increased 32%, from 50 lb to 66 lb. The differences are more subtle at lower speeds, with a difference of 4.2 lb at 93 mph. Additionally, the bike features a revised windscreen and a newly designed fairing now made of plastic. 

The BMW M 1000 RR’s Flex Frame has also gotten some adjustments. BMW says “the stiffness in the steering head area has been improved” but doesn’t specify whether it’s more or less rigid. Additionally, the upper mounting point on the engine’s left side has been relocated to the engine housing from the cylinder head. 

2025 BMW M 1000 RR
2025 BMW M 1000 RR in Light White (left) and Black Storm (right)

A new feature of the standard Dynamic Traction Control for 2025 is Slide Control, which uses the steering angle sensor with wheel-speed and sensor signals to determine the slip angle at the rear wheel. The DTC comes with two settings with different preset drift angles, and the steering angle sensor also enables the new Brake Slide Control function, which allows the rider to set a specific drift angle for braking drifts with a constant slide into corners. 

The BMW M 1000 RR will be available in Light White or Black Storm (M Competition package).  

2025 BMW S 1000 RR 

2025 BMW S 1000 RR
2025 BMW S 1000 RR in Bluestone Metallic

The BMW S 1000 RR gets updates to aerodynamics and rider aids for 2025, as well as the addition of the new M Quick-Action Throttle discussed above. Like the M 1000 RR, the S RR’s winglets have been redesigned, and they now produce 51 lb of downforce at 186 mph compared to the previous 38 lb. The front fender has been redesigned to optimize airflow around the fork and brake calipers to reduce brake temperature. 

Related: 2023 BMW S 1000 RR and M 1000 R | First Ride Review 

The previously optional Pro Riding Modes becomes a standard feature for 2025. Pro Riding Modes includes Race Pro 1, Race Pro 2, and Race Pro 3. Dynamic Traction Control still features Rain, Road, Dynamic, and Race settings, while Race Pro riding modes allow fine-tuning parameters for throttle response and drive torque. Also included in Race Pro modes are three levels of engine braking, five levels of ABS, the Slick setting for ABS Pro, Dynamic Brake Control, and Hill Start Control Pro. 

2025 BMW S 1000 RR
2025 BMW S 1000 RR

The 2025 BMW S 1000 RR will be available in Black Storm Metallic, Bluestone Metallic, or Light White (M package). 

2025 BMW M 1000 R 

The 2025 BMW M 1000 R undergoes the least number of changes out of the four models in this announcement. Dynamic Traction Control has been revised, with mapping derived from the RR models. Also derived from the RR models is the new dual-flow LED headlight. New M winglets are also added. 

2025 BMW M 1000 R
2025 BMW M 1000 R in White Aluminum Metallic Matte

The 2025 BMW M 1000 R will be available in Light White, White Aluminum Metallic Matte, or Black Storm Metallic (M Competition package). 

2025 BMW M 1000 R
The BMW M 1000 R gets new M winglets for 2025.

2025 BMW S 1000 R 

The S 1000 R’s most significant update for 2025 is a power increase of 5 hp to 170 hp. Based on the power unit of the S 1000 RR, the S 1000 R’s inline-Four features revised geometry of the intake ports and adjusted mapping to result in the power increase. Torque remains the same at 84 lb-ft at 9,250 rpm. Additionally, the bike gets a shorter final-drive ratio of 17/46 teeth. 

2025 BMW S 1000 R
2025 BMW S 1000 R in Bluefire with Mugiallo Yellow rear frame

The shift assistant in the S 1000 R has been revised so that smooth upshifting can be made with a closed throttle and smooth downshifting possible with an open throttle. The bike’s Dynamic Traction Control gets the same revisions as on the M 1000 R, and it receives a new dual-flow LED headlight derived from the RR models. 

The S 1000 R now comes standard with Drag Torque Control to prevent the rear wheel from slipping due to abrupt throttle closure or clumsy downshifting, and the standard Engine Brake function adjusts engine braking torque. Both functions work in conjunction with four settings: Rain, Road, Dynamic, and Dynamic Pro, with the latter offering the possibility to minimize engine brake and Drag Torque Control. 

2025 BMW S 1000 R
2025 BMW S 1000 R in Light White

Also new on the S 1000 R is a short license plate holder and a USB-C charging socket located under the seat, as well as Intelligent Emergency Call, which automatically contacts the BMW call center in the event of an emergency. 

The 2025 BMW S 1000 R will be available in Black Storm Metallic, Bluefire with Mugiallo Yellow rear frame, or Light White (M package). 

For more information, visit the BMW Motorrad website

Check out more new bikes in Rider’s 2025 Motorcycle Buyers Guide 

The post 2025 BMW M 1000 RR, S 1000 RR, M 1000 R, and S 1000 R Preview appeared first on Rider Magazine.

Source: RiderMagazine.com

NEW M 1000 RR UNVEILED: BMW take wraps off the 2025 model

WorldSBK manufacturers never stand still and, just days after clinching the 2024 WorldSBK title, BMW have unveiled a new-for-2025 M 1000 RR

BMW have revealed the first look at the new 2025 M 1000 RR machine. It features more power thanks to an engine upgrade, reaching a peak performance of 218 horsepower (up 6hp) at 14,500rpm. The aerodynamics have been revised with wings made from carbon fibre to help produce more downforce when upright and when leaning, increasing corner speeds while leaning but reducing the tendency to wheelie. The aerodynamic downforce load has increased to 30kg at 300km/h, up 7.4kg, but top speed remains at 314km/h. Other changes include modifications to the short-stroke throttle, exhaust, and frame. Check out stunning pictures of the new machine in the gallery at the top of this page!

Relive BMW’s 2024 season in style using the WorldSBK VideoPass!

Source: WorldSBK.com

What do we know about the WorldSSP and WorldSSP300 2025 grids?

Grids across three Championships within the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship are starting to take shape with several announcements for both WorldSSP and WorldSSP300. With the WorldSBK grid almost full – read the silly season details here – attention is turning to see who will race in the middleweight and lightweight classes.

WORLD SUPERSPORT: Oettl joins from WorldSBK, Manzi stays

Two big seats were filled with the announcements that former WorldSBK riders would join World Supersport. Philipp Oettl will link up with the Feel Racing WorldSSP Team, which ran Nicolo Bulega in 2022 and 2023 and Adrian Huertas in 2024 under the Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team banner. Lucas Mahias remains with GMT94 Yamaha as the Japanese brand introduces the R9 machine into competition. Stefano Manzi will continue with the Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing Team for next year, aiming to go one better than he did this season.

Elsewhere in WorldSSP, Tom Booth-Amos was announced as staying with PTR Triumph after a stellar 2024 where he claimed his first podium. Federico Caricasulo remains with Motozoo ME AIR Racing for a second campaign on the MV Agusta, while teammate Luke Power signed for 2024 and 2025. Meanwhile, at MV Agusta Reparto Corse, Bo Bendsneyder came in for the final two rounds to help prepare for 2025. At the Evan Bros. WorldSSP Yamaha Team, Valentin Debise announced on his social media that he wouldn’t continue with the team into 2025. Jorge Navarro will continue with the Orelac Racing VerdNatura team in 2025 after a successful part-campaign in 2024. Jeremy Alcoba will make the step across to WorldSSP on Kawasaki’s new machine for 2025 as he joins the Kawasaki Puccetti Racing team. VFT Racing announced that Niccolo Antonelli would race for them in 2025 on the Yamaha R9.

WORLD SUPERSPORT 300: Buis and Tonn remain with KTM

Double Champion Jeffrey Buis will stick with the Freudenberg KTM-Paligo Racing team for a second season after a race-winning campaign in 2024. He’ll be joined again by Phillip Tonn on the KTM RC 390 R. After impressing during his wildcard appearances, Antonio Torres will remain on the grid in 2025 after inking a deal with the ProDina Kawasaki Racing squad, joining race winner David Salvador.

Follow all the off-season action using the WorldSBK VideoPass!

Source: WorldSBK.com

2025 Triumph Icon Editions Preview 

2025 Triumph Icon Editions Scrambler 1200XE
2025 Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE Icon Edition

The Triumph Icon Editions collection for 2025 includes seven Modern Classic motorcycles featuring a Triumph logo that dates back to 1907, along with special color schemes and hand-painted details. These limited-edition models will only be available for the 2025 model year, making them collectable models for true Triumph fans. 

2025 Triumph Icon Editions Bonneville Bobber
2025 Triumph Bonneville Bobber Icon Edition

The Triumph logo has changed many times throughout the company’s history. The first was a shield in 1902, followed by a script logo in 1907, which was used for seven years. The design added “Motors” to the logo in 1915, followed by the return of the shield from 1902 but in color during the 1920s. In 1932, the logo changed by an oval globe. In 1934, the logo returned to the word “Triumph,” and it has evolved since. It’s the 1907 script logo that the company brings back for the 2025 Triumph Icon Editions collection. 

2025 Triumph Icon Editions Bonneville T100
2025 Triumph Bonneville T100 Icon Edition

The seven Modern Classic models in this collection feature different two-tone color splits of Sapphire Black and Aluminum Silver, with side panels finished to match the fuel tanks. Hand-painted coach lining traces the color-split lines in either black or gold. Each model also features the 1907 Triumph script logo in gold, along with exclusive Icon Edition model graphics. 

The Triumph Bonneville T100 Icon Edition ($11,745) features an Aluminum silver finish with Sapphire Black accents on the tank and side panels, with black coach lining. The Bonneville T120 Icon Edition ($13,695) has a Sapphire Black tank with silver accents and gold detailing. 

2025 Triumph Icon Editions Scrambler 900
2025 Triumph Scrambler 900 Icon Edition

In the Scrambler family, the Scrambler 900 Icon Edition ($12,245) has both black and silver on the tank separated by black coach lining, along with Sapphire Black fenders. The Scrambler 1200 X Icon Edition ($14,395) has an Aluminum Silver tank with black kneepads and two black tank stripes. The Scrambler 1200 XE Icon Edition ($16,095) has Phantom Black wrapped around both sides of the silver tank, along with gold lining to match the gold-anodized fork. 

Related: 2024 Triumph Scrambler 1200 X/XE Review 

2025 Triumph Icon Editions Speedmaster
2025 Triumph Speedmaster Icon Edition

The Bonneville Bobber Icon Edition ($14,795) retains its minimalist style with a predominantly black color scheme, with silver hand-painted accents. The last model in the collection is the Bonneville Speedmaster Icon Edition ($14,795), with silver finish on the tank and fenders, along with a central Sapphire Black stripe on the tank. 

Related: 2023 Triumph Bonneville Bobber Review 

2025 Triumph Icon Editions Scrambler 1200X
2025 Triumph Scrambler 1200 X Icon Edition

Triumph Icon Editions will arrive at dealerships starting in February 2025. For more information, visit the Triumph website

Check out more new bikes in Rider’s 2025 Motorcycle Buyers Guide 

The post 2025 Triumph Icon Editions Preview  appeared first on Rider Magazine.

Source: RiderMagazine.com

Motoxracing Yamaha double efforts for 2025 WorldSBK season with Rabat and Bahattin Sofuoglu

The 2024 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship may be over but the final pieces of the puzzle regarding 2025 are slotting into place and it’s good news for the Yamaha Motoxracing WorldSBK Team, who will double their efforts and field two bikes for the forthcoming season. Their riders will be a mixture of wiser experience and youthful exuberance, as 2014 Moto2™ World Champion Tito Rabat and WorldSSP race winner Bahattin Sofuoglu spearhead Sandro Carusi’s new-look team for next year.

RABAT’S NEXT MOVE: a third manufacturer for the 2014 Moto2™ Champion

Rabat first came over to the WorldSBK paddock in 2021, following many successful years in the MotoGP™ World Championship paddock which yielded numerous top ten finishes in the premier class as well as 13 wins, 36 podiums and one Moto2™ World Championship. Debuting with Ducati and achieving top ten finishes in his first season before repeating those achievements and getting points aboard the Puccetti Kawasaki in 2024, the 35-year-old will embrace a new bike, a new team but with same goals and desires as previous years.

Tito Rabat looks forwards to the switch of manufacturers, stating: “I’m excited to join the Yamaha Motoxracing WorldSBK Team. I think the Yamaha YZF-R1 has a setup that is easier to define than other bikes, which means even a private team can be competitive. Our first goal will be the top twelve, but we’ll see how things go during the season. I can’t wait to start the winter tests and compete in the 2025 Championship.  I want to thank Carusi for this opportunity, and hope to able to repay the team with good results.”

TURKISH REPRESENTATION DOUBLES: Sofuoglu follows in uncle Kenan’s footsteps and looks up to Toprak

It’s a pleasing circularity for Bahattin Sofuoglu, who raced with Sandro Carusi’s team during his WorldSSP300 years, where he was able to win on four occasions and be on the podium a total of eight times. He moved up to WorldSSP with MV Agusta for the European rounds of 2022 and impressed with three top fives in the last four rounds of the year before going on to take the manufacturer’s most recent win in Barcelona’s Race 2 of 2023. Remaining with the team since until splitting by mutual agreement in the final rounds of 2024, Sofuoglu’s move to Yamaha in WorldSBK will make for one of the most exciting prospects of the season.

Graduating to the top class in the paddock and adding to the Turkish presence on the WorldSBK grid, Bahattin Sofuoglu is eager to start his World Superbike journey: “I’m really pleased to be able to race with my former team again. We had some really good, successful seasons and podiums in WorldSSP300 and now we’re back together in the reigning class. My plan is to be ready as soon as possible as I embark on this exciting new chapter in my career. I’ve started riding a production YZF-R1 so that I can build confidence as I wait for the first tests. I want to say a big thank you to Sandro Carusi and Yamaha”.

CARUSI SPEAKS OF REFRESHED FEEL: Sofuoglu “promising youngster”, Rabat from rival to core member

Sandro Carusi, team boss, stated his delight at being able to expand the team’s presence in the World’s fastest and most popular production-based Championship, saying: “I can finally confirm that we’ll be fielding two riders next season. The experienced Tito Rabat, who is also an ex-Moto2™ World Champion and will be joined by promising youngster Bahattin Sofuoglu. Tito has been our rival in recent seasons and so I’m pleased that he’ll now be part of our team. We began working with Bahattin in 2020 when he was part of our WorldSSP300 Championship team. Over those two seasons, we were often on the podium and I always hoped that our paths would again cross one day. This will be our first season with two riders in WorldSBK and so there will also be changes in terms of our technical staff, with new entries as well as familiar faces. I’m sure that we can have a really close-knit work group in 2025.”

THE TEAM’S WorldSBK HISTORY: top six potential in years gone by

The team’s presence on the WorldSBK grid dates back to 2022 when Italian Roberto Tamburini moved up to the class and demonstrated some solid rides, with a best of P10 in Barcelona but a total of ten points-scoring finishes. 2023 saw them bet on BSB champion of 2022 Brad Ray, who elevated the team to a memorable top six finish at Imola in 2023. This would remain the team’s best performance to-date as 2024 wasn’t able to see Ray fight for the top six as he’d have previously hoped.

Get ready for 2025 and cheer Rabat and Sofuoglu from wherever you are with the WorldSBK VideoPass!

Source: WorldSBK.com

Can-Am Ryker Rally Accessories Review

Can-Am Ryker Rally Accessories Review
We review Can-Am Ryker Rally accessories, including a radiator protector, grille protector inserts, a roll-top tailbag, a tankbag, and a saddlebag liner. (Photos by the author.)

To prepare for a four-day trip with my dad to the Tail of the Dragon and surrounding areas on my Can-Am Ryker Rally, I ordered some accessories from Can-Am’s catalog, including protective pieces and luggage. I hoped these accessories would allow me to pack everything I’d need and provide peace of mind if I found some rougher roads to explore.

First, I replaced the Rally’s stock front vehicle protection with Can-Am’s Radiator Protector ($154.99). Since the Ryker Rally is mostly suited for mild gravel roads and not blazing new trails, I have never needed the large guard that the stock vehicle comes with. However, I have had an issue with rocks bouncing up into the gap between the front vehicle protection and the radiator – a problem I hoped this piece would solve.

Can-Am Ryker Rally Accessories Review
The Radiator Protector is the silver piece below the grille. The Grille Protector Inserts fit in the semicircular cut-outs on either side of the grille.

Installing the new Radiator Protector was fairly straightforward, but the instructions include some steps that are not necessary for a vehicle that was already equipped with front vehicle protection. I was able to omit some of these steps, like drilling holes in the front fascia. There are also plastic tabs around an area that are meant to hold a square nut, and these tabs make it tricky to grip the nut to tighten it but don’t provide enough support to hold the nut in place. Aside from tearing up these tabs, the install was simple.

I also installed Can-Am’s Grille Protector Inserts ($69.99), which snap into place on either side of the grille where there is nothing to block debris. With these two pieces of protection in place, I feel much more confident in tackling the gravel and dirt roads that are so much fun on the Ryker, and these protective pieces have held up to everything I threw at them during our trip and beyond.

Related: 2023 Can-Am Ryker Rally Review

For extra storage, I fitted the Ryker with Can-Am’s Linq 40L Roll-Top Bag ($229.99), the Ryker Tank Bag ($129.99), and the Shad Saddlebag Liner ($60.99). Since the roll-top bag is part of Can-Am’s Linq system (designed to work across many Can-Am product lines), installation was easy. It requires the Max Mount behind the pilot’s seat, which comes standard on the Ryker Rally and is available as an accessory on other models, as well as the Ryker Linq Plate ($259.99), an additional accessory that opens the door for many compatible Linq accessories. The waterproof roll-top bag snaps onto the Linq Plate with one hidden latch, which can be swapped for a locking latch for extra security.

Can-Am Ryker Rally Accessories Review
The Shad Saddlebag Liner makes loading and unloading the saddlebag quick and easy, and it’s convenient for carrying belongings to the hotel or campsite at the end of the day.

The Tank Bag was another easy install. Two screws near the fuel cap and three straps secure the base of the bag to the Ryker. The bag itself attaches magnetically to the base, with two buckles adding extra security and allowing you to quickly move the bag out of the way of the fuel cap for gas stops. The Tank Bag includes a clear pouch on top for a phone and a port to run a charging cord. The last of my accessories for this trip was the Shad Saddlebag Liner, which fits perfectly into my Shad Hard Saddlebag.

During our trip to the Tail of the Dragon, I particularly enjoyed the plentiful storage of the roll-top bag. The yellow interior makes seeing items easier, and the carrying handle was convenient while unloading the Ryker at hotels. The saddlebag liner was similarly useful. Without the liner, I’ve had to under-fill and squish down my items to get them to fit without spilling out when the bag is opened. But with the liner, I can fill the bag to capacity and easily carry it off the bike with the cross-body strap.

Can-Am Ryker Rally Accessories Review
The Linq 40L Roll-Top Bag on the Ryker’s tail, paired with the Shad Saddlebag and Ryker Tank Bag, provides plenty of storage options for taking long trips.

The tankbag was useful for storing small items like my wallet and phone. However, I ran into an issue on one of the hotter days of the trip. With the sun beaming down on the clear plastic cover, my phone underneath became overheated and shut off. On hot days, my phone benefits from the airflow when placed on a handlebar phone mount.

See all of Rider‘s Luggage reviews here

Although the tankbag’s phone pocket was not ideal for hot days, it was very useful when we ran into rainfall on our last day and kept my phone sheltered from rain under the plastic cover. The roll-top bag’s waterproof claims were also proven correct, and all my belongings were completely dry after riding in the rain for several hours.

See all of Rider‘s Parts & Accessories Reviews here

With these Can-Am accessories, I was able to put my worries aside and enjoy a beautiful week of riding with my dad, and I’m more confident in planning longer trips for the future.

The post Can-Am Ryker Rally Accessories Review appeared first on Rider Magazine.

Source: RiderMagazine.com

North Georgia Triangle Motorcycle Ride | Favorite Ride

Favorite Ride North Georgia Triangle Motorcycle Ride Cabin
This quiet, cozy, well-stocked cabin was our home away from home while visiting North Georgia. Lodging options are plentiful in the area. (Photos by the author.)

My family and I live in Jacksonville, Florida, where midsummer heat and humidity can press down on you like a weight. Looking for a respite, we headed for the higher elevations of the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Georgia, some of the southernmost mountains in the 2,000-mile Appalachian chain. Where there are mountains there are usually good motorcycling roads, and North Georgia has some real gems.

Favorite Ride North Georgia Triangle Motorcycle Ride

Scan the QR code above or click here to view the route on REVER

With my wife, kids, and parents piled in the family hauler and my motorcycle on the trailer, the six-hour drive had all the makings of National Lampoon’s Vacation. We avoided any hijinks, but we were relieved to arrive at our favorite cabin in Cleveland, Georgia.

With my family preoccupied with their own wanderings, I was eager to head out for a ride.

I’m an MSF instructor with more than 20 years of riding experience, but as a flatlander I had to recalibrate my brain to the tight curves, camber changes, rises, and dips that are common in North Georgia.

Favorite Ride North Georgia Triangle Motorcycle Ride Walasi-Yi Interpretive Center
Discarded hiking boots adorn an oak tree at Walasi‑Yi Interpretive Center, a popular place to rest and restock on the Appalachian Trail at Neels Gap. The southern trailhead for the AT is 29 miles away on Springer Mountain.

From Cleveland, I rode north on U.S. Route 129 to U.S. Route 19/129, which forms the eastern side of a famous loop known as the Georgia Triangle that connects U.S. 19, State Route 60, and State Route 180. Heading north on U.S. 19/129, I stopped at the Walasi-Yi Interpretive Center, where the Appalachian Trail cuts through Neels Gap. The small stone building was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, and both it and the AT were completed in 1937. Walasi-Yi supports AT hikers with a hostel, bathroom and shower facilities, a mail drop, a store, and shuttle services.

Favorite Ride North Georgia Triangle Motorcycle Ride Brasstown Bald
Cloudy skies obscured the views from Brasstown Bald, but on a clear day you can see four states. Georgia’s tallest mountain is accessible via a steep, windy road off State Route 180.

After enjoying the sweeping, roller-coaster curves of U.S. 19/129, I turned east on SR-180 and headed toward Brasstown Bald, Georgia’s highest peak at 4,784 feet. From Jacks Gap, getting to Brasstown Bald requires riding up a narrow, winding one-way up, one-way down road with guard rails, low speed limits, and unrestricted views of the surrounding mountains. Once near the top, it costs $8 to park, and you can take a shuttle or hike the last 0.6 mile to the observation tower, where you can see four states on a clear day.

Favorite Ride North Georgia Triangle Motorcycle Ride Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway
A nice view of the Blue Ridge Mountains from an overlook on Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway (State Route 346), a fun road through the national forest near the Georgia Triangle.

Backtracking on SR-180, I turned south on State Route 346, also known as the Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway, which meanders through the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest for 23 miles. It ends at State Route 75A, and continuing east another few miles takes you to the charming but tourist-heavy town of Helen, which is modeled after a Swiss alpine village.

I was there to ride, so I rode south on SR-75A, reconnected with U.S. 129, and then turned left (south) on U.S. 19. At the roundabout at Stonepile Gap, I continued north on SR-60, another wonderfully winding mountain road that forms the western leg of the Georgia Triangle.

See all of Rider‘s U.S. South motorcycle rides here.

After passing the Two Wheels of Suches motorcycle resort on my left, I turned right (east) on SR-180 (Wolf Pen Gap Road), the northern leg of the Georgia Triangle, which is the tightest and most technical of the three.

Favorite Ride North Georgia Triangle Motorcycle Ride Woody Gap
The Appalachian Trail crosses State Route 60 at Woody Gap, 3,160 feet above sea level.

After passing Lake Trahlyta and Vogel State Park on the right, I turned north again and took U.S. 19/129 all the way to Blairsville. Rather than contend with traffic on U.S. Route 76, I took a more leisurely route west on the Blue Ridge Highway and then Old U.S. 76. At Morganton, I reconnected with SR-60 and enjoyed more curves on my return to Suches.

After riding nearly 150 miles, I had earned a cold drink, a snack, and some relaxation time in one of the rocking chairs at Two Wheels of Suches. This well-known and well-maintained motorcycle resort and campground is a great place to meet fellow riders, see cool bikes, and have a meal, pitch a tent, or rent a room in the lodge.

Favorite Ride North Georgia Triangle Motorcycle Ride
For a Florida resident like me, riding in North Georgia is a real treat. Winding roads, mountain scenery, and cooler temperatures are a welcome break from flat, straight roads and sweltering heat.

The Georgia Triangle and other nearby roads scratched my itch for curvy roads and mountain scenery, and the temperatures were much cooler than back home. The cabin’s grill and a lazy hammock near the burbling creek were calling my name, so I saddled up again and rode back to Cleveland.

Once my family had gathered around the table set with sizzling burgers, everyone asked about my adventures, and I enjoyed sharing my story. As I said to my 7-year-old, the best part of a trip, no matter how near or far, is coming home.

See all of Rider‘s touring stories here.

North Georgia Triangle Motorcycle Ride Resources


Brian Carpenter Contributor Headshot

Brian Carpenter lives in Jacksonville, Florida. He’s a life-long motorcyclist who rides year-round, and he participates in the motorcycling community on various levels and is passionate about learning, coaching, and being an advocate for the lifestyle.

The post North Georgia Triangle Motorcycle Ride | Favorite Ride appeared first on Rider Magazine.

Source: RiderMagazine.com

Iannone set for sensational return to MotoGP™ for final two rounds of 2024 in place of Di Giannantonio

After taking victory in his year back racing in the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Champion, ‘The Maniac’ is now making another comeback – this time, to MotoGP™! Andrea Iannone (Team GoEleven) will replace Fabio Di Giannantonio at the Pertamina Enduro SKY VR46 Ducati outfit for the final two rounds of the 2024 MotoGP™ season, taking place at Sepang in Malaysia and the season finale in Valencia, Spain. It’ll be Iannone’s first appearance since the 2019 Australian Grand Prix at Phillip Island, where he was a race leader for Aprilia before not taking part in the remainder of the season and the start of his four-year ban.

Iannone is no stranger to MotoGP™ at all, having raced there his entire professional racing life from 2005 to 2019, where he won in 125cc, Moto2™ and MotoGP™, famously ending Ducati’s win drought with victory at the Red Bull Ring in Austria. Iannone moved to Suzuki where he achieved podiums across 2017 and 2018 but it was a difficult year at Aprilia in 2019, bringing just three top ten finishes and a best of P6 in Australia.

After his four year ban, the #29 was once again back on a race track and he stole the show immediately in World Superbike, taking the opening holeshot of the 2024 season and taking a debut podium. Four more podiums followed, including a sensational victory at MotorLand Aragon, becoming the eight different winner of 2024 and the 19th to win in both MotoGP™ and WorldSBK. Eighth overall in the Championship standings, there’ll be no expectactions for Iannone’s return to MotoGP™ for Valentino Rossi’s Ducati squad.

Speaking ahead of the penultimate MotoGP™ round of the year and his first in over five years, Iannone said: “Riding the world champion bike is exciting. MotoGP™ is the most technological and high-performance bike, I’m honored that they thought of me and I felt like I had to say yes to this opportunity immediately as soon as it was offered to me. The challenge is certainly crazy, complex and demanding, as I haven’t ridden a bike in this category for years and without having done tests or similar. I’m excited to be able to work with Ducati and the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team, both for the very high level and for the friendship since years. I thank Valentino Rossi, Alessio Salucci, Pablo Nieto, Gigi Dall’Igna, Claudio Domenicali and Mauro Grassilli.”

Alessio Salucci, Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team director welcomed Iannone back to the paddock with open arms: “I am very happy to confirm that Andrea will race with our colors on the Ducati Desmosedici GP. First of all, Andrea has shown to be in great shape, he closed the WorldSBK season on a high and has always remained close to Ducati. He is a great friend of the VR46 family, both mine and Vale’s. We are very happy to welcome him to the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team and to see him back on a MotoGP™ bike; it’s a really great story! At the same time, we all wish Fabio the best of luck as he will undergo shoulder surgery this week and we can’t wait to see him back on track in 2025”.

Get ready for 2025’s epic WorldSBK season wherever you are with the WorldSBK VideoPass!

Source: WorldSBK.com