No other specs, or a price, have been offered as of now, but detailed prototype photos give lots of clues as to what to expect when the Pan America launches in the US toward the end of 2020. Just don’t make the mistake of calling it Harley’s “first” adventure bike, as that title goes to the MT-500 sold to the public in 1999 and 2000.
In the FIM Moto3™ Junior World Championship, Jeremy Alcoba is poised to succeed: 46 points clear of the second classified rider, Carlos Tatay (Fundación Andreas Pérez 77), he only needs 5 of the 50 points left in play to become champion. In addition, the Laglisse Academy rider’s move to the FIM Moto3™ World Championship with the Fausto Gresini team has already been made public. Carlos Tatay and Xavier Artigas (Leopard Impala Junior), who raced with an injury Albacete but still made a spectacular comeback (he started penultimate on the grid and finished sixth), will be fighting for the places on the final podium along with Barry Baltus (Ángel Nieto Junior Team). In addition, this last race will have the interest of the debut in the category of the ETC champion, Izan Guevara.
From Alpinestars’ graphic, we can see Marquez’ Tech-Air device activated 855ms (0.855 seconds) before the Spaniard first made an impact with the ground. The data indicates Marquez was airborne for just under a second before the first impact with the ground registered over 20g, with the greatest amount of g-force being measured at 26.27g.
The Grand Prix Commission has released some new rules for 2020, including Moto2™ wildcards and MotoGP™ test restrictions
In a meeting held in Sepang on 2 November 2019, the Grand Prix Commission composed of Messrs. Carmelo Ezpeleta (Dorna, Chairman), Paul Duparc (FIM), Herve Poncharal (IRTA) and Takanao Tsubouchi (MSMA), in the presence of Jorge Viegas (FIM President), Carlos Ezpeleta (Dorna), Mike Trimby (IRTA, Secretary of the meeting) and Corrado Cecchinelli (Director of Technology), made the following decisions:
Sporting Regulations (effective in 2020)
Moto2™ class wildcards:
Wild card entries in the Moto2™ class were not permitted in the 2019 season due to the lack of availability of chassis and engines. The Commission have now approved the re-introduction of such entries for next season.
However, due to the availability and operation of the mandatory Magneti Marelli ECU and software, entries will only be considered when made and operated by an existing Moto2™ class team participating in the Championship.
MotoGP™ class test restrictions:
In the light of recent changes to test restrictions in this class, resulting in less testing, the Commission decided that MotoGP™ class rookie riders will be permitted to participate in the three-day shakedown test at Sepang. Previously, this test was only available to test riders of the Factory teams and riders of teams benefitting from concessions.
Technical Regulations (effective in 2020)
Aero Body Side Pods (Wings):
In the interests of safety, the Commission decided that at any event held at the Phillip Island Circuit it will be permitted for riders to remove the side pods from the aero body. This is under the condition that all side pods are removed and it does not affect the external profile of the homologated fairing. All modifications must be pre-approved by the Technical Director.
It was further decided that Race Direction will be responsible for determining and announcing if this concession will apply at any other event-based on prevailing or forecast wind conditions.
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BMW Motorrad have announced a new F 900 R nakedbike for 2020 at EICMA alongside a new F 900 XR ‘adventure-sport’ option that widens their street-bike portfolio yet further.
The F 900 R replaces the F 800 R and puts to rest rumours of an F 850 R which had been circulating. In the F 900 R we get a new 895 cc in-line twin-cylinder engine based on the F 850 powerplant, now producing 77 kW (105 hp) and 92 Nm of torque at 6500 rpm. BMW state that 87 Nm is already available from 4500 rpm.
The standard electronics package offers Rain and Road riding modes as standard, controlling the ASC and ABS systems.
‘Riding Modes Pro’ option offers further rider aids with DTC (Dynamic Traction Control), ABS Pro (corner ABS), DBC (Dynamic Brake Control) and MSR – the new engine torque control system which prevents rear wheel slip during abrupt down-shifting or throttle closure.
The F 900 R is designed to offer a sporty, active and upright seating position, with low and high seat options available. Standard seat height is 815mm but low seats down to 770 mm, and high-seat options up to 865 will also be available.
A steel bridge frame uses the engine as a load-bearing element while the fuel tank is traditionally located. The fuel cell is a plastic-welded construction and offers a relatively limited 13-litre capacity. A new bolt-on steel rear frame is also featured.
BMW are promising a fuel economy of 4.2L per 100 km so a range of 300km should be possible.
Forks are 43mm USD items, while the rear shock offers pre-load and rebound adjustability and acts on an aluminium double-sided swingarm.
Suspension travel is 135mm front and 142mm rear, with the option of Dynamic ESA available as an ex-works option for electronic suspension control at the rear.
The 2020 F 900 R is also fitted with dual 320mm front rotors and Brembo radial four-piston calipers. A 265mm rear rotor and single-piston floating caliper looks after the rear. Wheels are die-cast aluminium items running 120/70 – 17 and 180/55 – 17 tyres.
A 6.5-inch TFT display includes the BMW Motorrad Connectivity system as standard, with LED lighting all round also standard, but able to be upgraded to Adaptive Cornering Light with the optional Headlight Pro extra.
The new F 900 R will be available in Blackstorm metallic, San Marino Blue metallic and Hockenheim Silver metallic/Racing Red colour options.
Total weight comes in at 211kg ready to ride, with Australian pricing and availability yet to be announced.
2020 BMW F 900 R Specifications
F 900 R
Engine
Capacity
895 cc
Bore/stroke
86/77 mm
Output
77/105 kW/hp
at engine speed
8,500 rpm
Torque at engine speed
92 Nm /6,500 rpm
Type
Water-cooled 2-cylinder 4-stroke in-line engine, four valves per cylinder activated by cam followers, two overhead camshafts and dry sump lubrication
Compression
13.1/1
Fuel
Premium unleaded 95 RON
Valve control
DOHC (double overhead camshaft), cam followers
Valves per cylinder
4
Ø intake/outlet
33.5 mm/27.2 mm
Ø throttle valve
48 mm
Engine control
BMS-M
Emission control
Closed-loop three-way catalytic converter, exhaust standard EU-5
Electrical System
Alternator
416 W
Battery
V/Ah 12/12, maintenance-free
Headlamp
LED headlights (low and high beam)
(Headlight Pro option: LED daytime riding light and Adaptive Cornering Light)
Alongside the announcement of the new F 900 R for 2020, BMW Motorrad have also unveiled the F 900 XR as an ‘adventure-sport’ option but at first glance it looks more sports-tourer, but with an upright adventure style riding position.
In comparison to the S 1000 XR, the F 900 XR has 60 less horsepower, 22 Nm less torque, and weighs in 9 kg lighter. The F 900 XR also boasts a lower seat height, as well as a smaller fuel tank and does without the fork adjustability of the S 1000 XR. The F 900 XR you would expect will make for a more accessible entry-point for riders at what will hopefully be a considerable cost saving compared to its fire-breathing litre class sibling.
The F 900 range introduces a new 895cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin. Its roots are from the F 850 but the F900 machine gain a capacity boost due to a 2mm bore increase to 86mm, while running the same 77 mm stroke.
Peak power is now 77 kW (105 hp), with 92 Nm of torque at 6500 rpm. BMW claim that a strong 87 Nm of grunt is available from as low as 4500 rpm.
As with the S 1000 XR, the F 900 XR offers a mix of sport and touring capability, now in a mid-range package, with styling designed to pay homage to the S 1000 XR but with a lower seat height.
Seat height as standard is 825mm, while low seat height options cover 775mm and 795mm, while higher options are available up to a tall 870mm.
A steel-bridge frame is utilised alongside a bolt-on rear steel frame designed specifically for the F 900 models. A lightweight welded-plastic fuel cell has a capacity of 15.5 litres on the XR, in comparison to the new F 900 R’s 13L capacity.
The F 900 XR also features longer travel suspension, helping to offer greater comfort for a wider range of riding conditions, with 170mm stroke through the forks and 172mm at the shock.
Forks are 43mm USD units while the shock is preload and rebound adjustable. Dynamic ESA is available as an option for the rear of the machine.
Standard electronics include Riding Modes, ASC and ABS, with Rain and Road riding modes available.
The Riding Modes Pro optional package offers the addition of Dynamic and Dynamic Pro modes, alongside Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and banking ABS.
Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) is also included with Riding Modes Pro, while the new engine drag torque control (MSR) is also featured.
Standard is a large 6.5inch TFT display with BMW Motorrad Connectivity.
Other optional extras include Adaptive Cornering Lights, the BMW Keyless Ride system, and Intelligent Emergency Call. All standard lighting is also LED, with an adjustable windshield enabling fine-tuning of wind protection.
The 2020 BMW F 900 XR will be available in Light White, Galvanic Gold metallic (Style Exclusive), and Racing Red (Sport) with Australian availability and pricing yet to be released.
2020 BMW F 900 XR Specifications
F 900 XR
Engine
Capacity
895 cc
Bore/stroke
86/77 mm
Output
77/105 kW/hp
at engine speed
8,500 rpm
Torque at engine speed
92 Nm /6,500 rpm
Type
Water-cooled 2-cylinder 4-stroke in-line engine, four valves per cylinder activated by cam followers, two overhead camshafts and dry sump lubrication
Compression
13.1/1
Fuel
Premium unleaded 95 RON
Valve control
DOHC (double overhead camshaft), cam followers
Valves per cylinder
4
Ø intake/outlet
33.5 mm/27.2 mm
Ø throttle valve
48 mm
Engine control
BMS-M
Emission control
Closed-loop three-way catalytic converter, exhaust standard EU-5
Electrical System
Alternator
416 W
Battery
V/Ah 12/12, maintenance-free
Headlamp
LED headlights (low and high beam) (Headlight Pro option: LED daytime riding light and Adaptive Cornering Light)
KTM are set to introduce a 390 Adventure model to the Australian market early in 2020 to widen their adventure-touring portfolio with a new light-weight learner legal machine.
Tipping the scales at 158kg (172 kg complete with a full 14.5-litre fuel tank), and boasting 44 horsepower it will be an attractive option for a new rider.
The KTM 390 Adventure should prove extremely comfortable and practical in a commuting role during the week, then be ready for adventure come the weekend.
The 373.2cc engine is borrowed from the highly successful KTM 390 Duke and RC390 models to pull all-roads touring duty in the new 390 Adventure.
It is a high-tech EU4 spec’ high-compression engine that spins hard and is fuelled by a Bosch EFI system via a 38 mm throttle body that is controlled via a ride-by-wire system.
A single 320mm disc with radial caliper and 230mm rear disc are connected to a Bosch 9.1MP ABS system that can be turned off when negotiating more extreme off-road tracks.Traction/stability control systems are also standard.
KTM state that the chassis and ergonomics are derived from the 790 Adventure in conjunction with feedback from the KTM 450 Rally program.
The trellis frame has been tuned for controlled flex to provide feel to the rider and the 390 Adventure rolls on a 1430 mm wheelbase.
WP provide their Apex spec’ suspension with inverted 43mm forks that are adjustable for both compression and rebound damping via easy knobs on top of the fork tubes, compression in one leg and rebound in the other. The WP Apex shock is adjustable for preload and rebound.
Suspension travel is a generous 170 mm at the front and 177 mm at the rear.
The 390 Adventure has a handy 200 mm of ground clearance while keeping the seat height to a reasonable 855 mm. KTM state that due to the slim proportions of the machine and a sculpted seat getting on and off the bike is easier than the seat height might suggest.
A full-colour TFT dash can connect to your phone via Bluetooth and the KTM My Ride navigation app to facilitate on-dash navigation prompts while you ride. An up-down quick-shifter will be an optional extra.
2020 KTM 390 Adventure Specifications
Specficiations
Engine
Engine Type
Single cylinder, 4-stroke
Displacement
373.2 cc
Bore / Stroke
89 / 60 mm
Power
32 kW (44 hp) @ 9,000 rpm
Torque
37 Nm @ 7,000 rpm
Compression Ratio
12.6:1
Starter / Battery
Electric starter / 12V, 8 Ah
Transmission
6 gears
Fuel System
Bosch EFI (throttle body 38 mm)
Control
4 V / DOHC
Lubrication
Wet sump
Engine Oil
Motorex Formula 4T 15W/50
Primary Drive
30:80
Final Drive
15:45
Cooling
Liquid cooling
Clutch
PASC™ slipper clutch, mechanically operated
Ignition / Engine Management
Bosch EMS with RBW
Traction Control
MTC
Chassis
Frame
Steel trellis frame, powder coated
Subframe
Steel trellis frame, powder coated
Handlebar
Aluminum, tapered, Ø 26 / 22 mm
Front Suspension
WP APEX, Ø 43 mm, adjustable compression / rebound
Rear Suspension
WP APEX shock absorber, adjustable rebound and spring preload
Suspension Travel Front / Rear
170 / 177 mm
Front Brake
Single piston, radially mounted caliper, brake disc Ø 320 mm
Rear Brake
Double piston, floating caliper, brake disc Ø 230 mm
Abs
Bosch 9.1MP Two Channel (disengageable)
Wheels Front / Rear
Cast aluminium wheels 2.50 × 19″; 3.50 × 17″
Tires Front / Rear
100/90 × 19; 130/80 × 17
Chain
X-Ring 520
Silencer
Stainless steel primary and aluminium secondary silencer
Kawasaki announces updates to selected 2020 models
Section: General
Upgraded Z650, Z900 and Ninja 1000SX models for next year.
Image: Supplied.
Kawasaki Motors Australia has announced updates to its Z650, Z900 and Ninja 1000SX motorcycles for year model 2020.
The superbly balanced Z650 offers Sugomi performance and styling featuring a powerful engine with strong low-mid range torque in a lightweight chassis. The thorough attention given to ensure a high-quality fit & finish results in a machine that riders can be proud to own – an ideal ambassador for the Z brand.
Engine refinements contribute to cleaner emissions and increased mid-range torque, new tyres offer lighter handling, and a redesigned tandem seat offers increased passenger comfort.
As before, nimble handling and superb feedback are complemented by easy-to-manage power delivery and rider-friendly manoeuvrability, offering an ideal blend of sporty performance and everyday versatility designed to accommodate a wide range of riders.
Sharp new styling, highlighted by a new LED headlight and TFT instrumentation, gives this second generation Z650 an even stronger sugomi presence.The thorough attention given to ensure a high-quality fit and finish results in a machine that riders can be proud to own
Image: Supplied.
Updated for 2020, the Z900 maintains the ‘Exciting and Easy’ concept of its predecessor, while offering the next step in aggressive Z sugomi styling. A host of advanced new features – including integrated Riding Modes (combining newly added KTRC and Power modes), new TFT colour instrumentation, smartphone connectivity, all-LED lighting and cleaner emissions – to name a few.
The Z900’s engine and chassis are extremely well matched, making it an excellent all-rounder, able to cater to wide range of riders. Its rider-friendly character (further enhanced with the addition of traction control) is complemented by agile handling and a responsive throttle.
As before, the Z900 will happily accommodate city riding, but as a machine designed to deliver maximum riding impact, it is most at home carving corners in the hills.
Image: Supplied.
The new Ninja 1000SX marks the fourth generation of a successful sport-touring platform that enables experienced riders to enjoy sporty riding and touring capability from a relaxed position.
Cleaner emissions with the same great performance, sportier, more dynamic new styling featuring a single-sided muffler and all-LED lighting, increased seat comfort for both rider and passenger, and a host of technology updates make this refined sport-tourer more attractive than ever.
All three bikes are anticipated to land in Australia during the early months of 2020, while pricing is still to be confirmed. For more information, visit www.kawasaki.com.au.
Norden 901 concept headlines Husqvarna EICMA presentation
Section: Competition
Updated 2020 Husqvarna range showcased at the Milan show.
Image: Supplied.
Husqvarna Motorcycles showcased a selection of 2020 models during its presentation at EICMA, headlined by an exciting twin-cylinder Norden 901 concept adventure bike.
Forming Husqvarna Motorcycles’ view of an adventure-touring motorcycle, the Norden 901 concept is a dynamic, twin-cylinder motorcycle that features advanced rider ergonomics and high performance based on years of rally experience, in a distinctly modern design.
A versatile long-distance exploration concept, it delivers both outstanding street and offroad performance. Class-leading lightness and power delivery is set in a versatile and accessible package, precisely arranged to allow discerning riders uncompromised exploration possibilities.
Delivering effortless rideability and sensible, high-end modern equipment this motorcycle can be used on daily commutes, extended adventures and everything in between.
Image: Supplied.
The Vitpilen and Svartpilen 701, now in their third and second year of production respectively, receive new colours, trim, graphics and technical details that enhance the modern look of their ground-breaking designs.
With 75hp, the high-performance 692cc single-cylinder engine compliments the machines’ dynamic handling and exciting riding experience.
Weighing only 158kg and 161kg respectively without fuel, both motorcycles feature adjustable suspension and are further highlighted by new spoked wheels and CNC machined footrests. Both models are expected to arrive in Australia during the first quarter of next year.
Image: Supplied.
The Vitpilen and Svartpilen 401, with their strong and tractable 373cc, 44hp single-cylinder engines, are equally well suited to urban environments as they are to out-of-town riding, thanks to their dynamic chassis, accessible overall size and low weight.
For 2020, both models feature a new bolt-on subframe that has been extended by 40mm for improved pillion comfort, as well as a new, high quality paint finishes and graphics that highlight their progressive designs. Arrival for both bikes in Australia is slated for the final quarter of 2020.
On display at this year’s EICMA are also the 701 Supermoto and 701 Enduro models featuring the latest cutting-edge electronic rider aids. Cornering ABS, lean angle sensitive traction control, ride modes and easy shift are featured as standard and offer the highest levels of safety matched to the highest performance.
Image: Supplied.
Both models are extremely well-balanced, offering outstanding levels of agility and handling. The renowned, torquey, 74hp single-cylinder 692.7cc engine features ride-by-wire throttle, offering a perfectly linear power delivery. For the first time, the new machines will have their own unique progressive new graphics.
Bred from Husqvarna Motorcycles’ highly popular 701 Enduro, the brand new 701 Enduro LR (Long Range) shares the same advanced electronics as the 701 Enduro but offers additional touring capabilities for riders wanting to travel further. The LR version is expected to arrive in Australia during the second quarter of 2020, while standard Enduro and Supermoto are anticipated for arrival in the first quarter of next year.
Remaining a lightweight and nimble machine, the additional 12-litre auxiliary fuel tank increases the total fuel capacity to 25 litres, meaning a significantly bigger fuel range for endless enduro capability. For more information, visit www.husqvarna-motorcycles.com/au.
New Supersport model accompanied by Tuono 660 concept bike.
Image: Supplied.
Aprilia has pulled the covers off its newly-introduced 2020 RS 660 at EICMA, while also unveiling a Tuono 660 concept bike.
Created around a totally new technical base defined by the 660 parallel twin comes a new generation of lightweight, high-performance bikes that are sophisticated in design. A return to the mid-sized engine, supported by the electronics and technology of the Aprilia Racing department, to rediscover the pleasure and joy of everyday riding.
The innovative concept behind the RS 660 project can be summed up by its excellent weight/power ratio that makes for enjoyable riding, whether relaxed or more sports-orientated – 169kg while boasting 100hp is the perfect formula for enjoyment on the road.
It is also a unique project from a technical standpoint, featuring a new frame and swingarm in lightweight aluminium, and a new high-performance parallel twin engine accessible to everyone.
Inherited from the unbeatable RSV4, the electronic equipment is top class and comprises a Ride-by-Wire throttle and a six-axis inertial platform for optimum operation of the APRC electronic aids.
It offers five riding modes designed to regulate the behaviour of the electronic controls for safety and fun during daily riding, dynamic riding on the road, and extreme riding on track.
RS 660 also stands out for its particularly advanced aerodynamics comprising a double fairing with aerodynamic appendage function to optimise stability at high speeds, effectively protecting both rider and passenger from the air pressure.
Image: Supplied.
The Tuono 660 concept best expresses the new concept of sports versatility introduced by Aprilia with the new family of motorcycles designed around the new 660cc twin-cylinder that is able to deliver 95hp.
In keeping with Aprilia tradition, the naked version is born from the RS 660. It features the same technical content and incomparable stand-out chassis, but with heightened road riding connotations, with a raised riding position on the large and wide handlebar.
The Tuono 660 concept is ideal for new riders, as it is also available in a 34kw version, but also for young motorcyclists moving up from smaller engine capacities and who seek a high-level naked sports bike, as its able to offer daily thrills and fun on the road and even support the rider during occasional track sessions.
Pricing and availability in Australia is still to be determined.