Recently announced motorcycle maker Arc has launched its first model, the Vector, at Milan’s EICMA Motorcycle show today with the company claiming that the Arc Vector is the most advanced electric motorcycle ever brought to market. With a price-tag starting at £90,000, that is about $165,000 AUD, it bloody well should be too!
Arc Vector
The hand-built Vector has a lightweight carbon-composite structure and battery-module monocoque. Its lighter weight solves one of the headaches normally attributed to brick battery EVs, and ARC are claiming MotoGP levels of chassis stiffness.
Arc Vector
The Samsung battery cells are cutting-edge and Arc claim to be the first motorcycle manufacturer with access to this technology. The battery packaging has been developed to be completely modular, flexible, and legacy-free, maximised for simplicity, space and mass-reduction. Arc’s batteries are the only motorcycle batteries tested to Reg100 standards – a test normally only undertaken by automotive OEMs.
Arc Vector
The powercell produces 399 units of voltage, giving a realistic range of around 320 kilometres in urban use and 200 kilometres on the highway. The NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) showed a 600+ kilometre urban range, which is the drive-cycle often quoted by companies
Arc Vector
Vector utilises carbon-fibre swingarms front and rear with suspension via custom-made Ohlins dampers. Brembo supply the brakes while the wheels are from BST.
Arc Vector
The entire package tips the scales at 220kg, which is almost 60kg lighter than comparable machines. Vector has the best power-to-weight ratio of any electric motorcycle of its class by a considerable margin.
Arc Vector
In raw pace, Vector rivals regular sporting motorcycles, sprinting from standstill to 60mph in 3.1 seconds and carrying on to 120mph.
Arc Vector
Human Machine Interface (HMI) has been taken to a new level, comprising an intelligent rider jacket packed with haptic sensory technology and a Heads-Up Display (HUD) helmet inspired by those of fighter pilots, giving the user important information and enhancing the freedom and wellbeing of their riding experience.
Arc Vector
The key to the bike is the Zenith helmet, which has been designed in collaboration with Hedon. Its connected HUD projects speedo, sat-nav and ancillary graphics onto the rider’s visor so they can keep their eyes affixed to the road, Iron Man-style. A live rear-view camera is encased in the calfskin-trimmed helmet, giving the user the ability to see what’s behind them.
Arc Vector
The bespoke jacket, Origin, represents a game-changing advance in intelligent technology, making motorcycling even more immersive. HMI has been applied to the armoured ride-wear by packing the jacket with audio-type haptic amplifiers – like a smart phone’s vibration notifications, but a lot more advanced. These may vibrate to alert of a potential hazard, provide dynamic performance-based feedback, or enhance the senses when on a stimulating ride.
Arc Vector
The Origin jacket, which is tailored in collaboration with style gurus Knox, has three settings. Urban Mode focuses on safety, alerting the rider to dangers such as vehicles in their blind spot with a polite tap on the shoulder. Sports Mode gives the rider feedback on the bike’s dynamic position and parameters by taking G-Force related data from the Vector’s carefully nuanced sensors and providing a graduated level of feedback. This tells the rider how close to the limit of the motorcycle’s capabilities the rider is. For example, the harder you brake the more feedback you receive.
Arc Vector
Euphoric Mode lets you play music through the haptics as you ride and simulates the bass through the jacket’s amplifiers, making your hairs stand on end. It communicates with the Vector bike and the Zenith helmet wirelessly, emboldening freedom by enhancing the senses.
Financial backing has been obtained from a number of blue-chip beneficiaries, including Jaguar Land Rover’s venture capital fund InMotion Ventures, Mercia Fund Managers and the Midlands Engine Investment Fund.
Mark Truman, Founder and CEO, Arc Vehicle Ltd
“We felt that there was more one could get out of motorcycling which no one was tapping into. This is about using technology to strip back the experience of riding a bike, through the use of haptics and HUD. The helmet and jacket work in tandem with the Vector to remove distractions and emphasise the joy of riding.
“With Vector, we’ve set out to build the best performance electric motorcycle. With electric vehicles in general, the powertrain weighs a lot. This really can’t be avoided if you want capacity, distance and performance. So, it was about stripping everything back and using a lot of exotic, lightweight materials, such as carbon-fibre. The chassis and battery module had to be one, and because of this approach we’ve been able to reduce the weight as much as possible to achieve the performance we wanted. The design brief was; if the term ‘cafe racer’ was going to be coined in ten years’ time, what would that look like?
“Arc Vector satisfies those of us who are rarely satisfied, who are always looking for a different road, a different view. We understand the need to be different, to be better, and challenge the norm.”
Arc Vector
Arc Vector Specifications
Build Volume – 399 in first year
Maximum Power 103 kW
Maximum Torque 85 Nm at Motor, 397 Nm at Gearbox Output Sprocket
Brakes Brembo Stylema 4-piston monobloc calipers with 320mm floating front discs, Brembo 2-piston caliper with 240mm rear disc, Continental Advanced ABS with IMU
Front Wheel BST Black Diamond 5 carbon fibre wheel 120/70 ZR17 Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II
Rear Wheel BST Black Diamond 5 carbon fibre wheel 180/55 ZR17 Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II
Seat Height 840mm
Wheelbase 1438 mm
Rake 18.5°
Trail 100mm
Connectivity Wi-Fi and Bluetooth protocol across motorcycle, cell phone, helmet and jacket
Haptics ARC ORIGIN JACKET (co-engineered with KNOX), with 8x high-definition haptic transmitters HUD ARC ZENITH HELMET (co-engineered with HEDON), with wave-guide projection HUD
Riding Modes Road, Rain, Sport, Track, Eco and Euphoric
Zero-60mph Under 3.1 seconds
Price Starts at £90,000
Arc Vector
Based in Coventry, in the centre of the UK’s automotive high-tech industry, Arc aims to be a transformative vehicle that will challenge the rider’s way of seeing and thinking.
MV Agusta are the masters of special editions, some are simply a bit of a bling and some new colour treatments, but every now and then they come up with something a bit more special. I think it is fair to say the MV Agusta Superveloce 800 might indeed be a bit special.
MV Agusta Superveloce 800
The legend of “Meccanica Verghera” and MV’s incredible record on the racetracks of the world in the 1960s and 1970s is celebrated in the MV Agusta Superveloce 800.
The machine you see here is dubbed a ‘concept’ but MV Agusta have stated that the bike will be produced in the second half of 2019.
MV Agusta Superveloce 800
Timeless classic lines pay homage to MV Agusta’s history but in the Superveloce 800 also sees plenty of modern styling cues successfully married in a tasteful nod to the heritage of iconic Italian brand.
A carbon-fibre fairing envelopes the engine and frame while the upper fairing pays tribute to design ethos of the nineteen-seventies.
The yellow colour of the plexiglass windscreen and the headlight unit in particular is certainly a nod to the psychadelic 70s. The latter is a technologically advanced twin-function full LED poly-ellipsoidal unit complete with LED daylight running light built into the cover of the new instrument cluster.
MV Agusta Superveloce 800
The sub-frame allows the owner to transform the bike from single-seat to pillion ready depending on their mood at the time.
MV Agusta Superveloce 800
A new circular LED tail light unit is distinctive.
MV Agusta Superveloce 800
The engine and braking system are directly derived from the MV Agusta F3 800, with some key adaptations that enhance the performance on the new Superveloce 800. The engine is entirely remapped to enhance the excellent power characteristics, without excluding an eventual increase in maximum power.
MV Agusta Superveloce 800
The entire exhaust system was redesigned based on the classic 3 in 1 in 3 layout, with the silencers placed asymmetrically: two are on the right side and one on the left, reminiscent of a prominent technical and aesthetic solution employed in MV Agusta’s racing history.
MV Agusta Superveloce 800
The riding position has been adapted directly from the F3 800 supersport bike, including the seat height, handlebars and footpegs, with the sole purpose of generating maximum riding efficiency.
MV Agusta Superveloce 800
Adjustable footpegs allow the rider to customize their position, guaranteeing a perfect rider-vehicle fit. The user-friendly handlebar and foot controls integrate perfectly with the clarity of the new TFT dashboard with dedicated graphics and a host of new features.
MV Agusta Superveloce 800
The fuel tank cap was specifically designed to integrate a characteristic leather strap that secures the fuel tank to the frame at the front and back.
MV Agusta Superveloce 800
The new MV Agusta Superveloce 800, in its final technical definition and stylistic form, will go into production in the second half of 2019.
Ducati’s Diavel launched at EICMA in 2010 to a great reception. Ducati took low slung, almost cruiser like styling and ergonomics, into a chassis with big power, great suspension and pretty good handling. For 2019 Ducati fits its up-spec Testastretta DVT 1262 engine to both the standard and new S editions.
2019 Ducati Diavel 1260 S
The Testastretta DVT 1262 engine combines strong acceleration with smooth low-rev power delivery. This engine has already made a previous appearance on the Diavel platform in the XDiavel but now boasts more grunt for 2019.
2019 Ducati Diavel 1260 S
An upgraded chassis set-up aims to make the Diavel 1260 more responsive on mixed-road routes – ideal for many Australian roads – while performance, braking and electronics provide performance akin to something much more sporting, including Bosch Cornering ABS.
2019 Ducati Diavel 1260
Naturally comfort levels for rider and passenger remain a strong focus with an upright riding position and a large, generously padded seat.
1260 Ducati Testastretta DVT
The heart of the new Diavel 1260 is the 1262cc Ducati Testastretta DVT engine with variable cam timing. Already featured in the XDiavel, it has now been upgraded to output 159 hp (117 kW) at 9500rpm and 129 Nm (13.1 kgm) at 7500 rpm, providing good pulling power right from the low-medium rev range.
2019 Ducati Diavel 1260 S
The variable timing system acts continuously on the intake and exhaust camshafts, meaning the engine adjusts power delivery to suit riding conditions, with smooth delivery at low revs, and sporty performance at high revs.
2019 Ducati Diavel 1260 S
Power cruiser ergonomics & style
The riding position and ‘power cruiser’ ergonomics so popular with first-generation Diavelisti remain unchanged, however the new Diavel sports a prominent new tubular steel Trellis frame.
2019 Ducati Diavel 1260 S
Anchored to the frame is an aluminium swingarm, designed to give cornering agility, feel and easy riding, while the rear wheel is shod in a wide 240 mm hoop – a Diavel hallmark.
2019 Ducati Diavel 1260 S
Sophisticated electronics include the 6-axis Bosch Inertial Measurement Unit (6D IMU) which instantaneously detects bike speed and acceleration and is crucial to the many electronics systems on the Diavel 1260. These systems includes Bosch Cornering ABS EVO, Ducati Traction Control EVO, Ducati Wheelie Control EVO, Ducati Power Launch EVO and Cruise Control.
2019 Ducati Diavel 1260 S
The Diavel 1260 will be available in Sandstone Grey with a black frame.
Diavel 1260 S
A sportier S version of the Diavel 1260 will also available, featuring fully adjustable Öhlins suspension at both ends, dedicated wheels and an up-spec braking system.
2019 Ducati Diavel 1260 S
Compared to the standard Diavel the 1260 S boasts radially mounted Brembo monobloc four-piston M50 callipers and a PR16/19 radial master-cylinder. The upspec suspension is a 48mm Öhlins adjustable USD fork with TiN treatment, while the rear is a Öhlins fully adjustable monoshock. The custom wheels are machined but share the same dimensions as those found on the standard.
2019 Ducati Diavel 1260 S
The S version also mounts the Ducati Quick Shift up & down EVO system as standard to allow clutchless shifting.
2019 Ducati Diavel 1260 S
The Diavel S offers two livery options: Thrilling Black & Dark Stealth (motorcycle surfaces feature two contrasting blacks with different finishes, with red frame) and Sandstone Grey (with black frame).
2019 Ducati Diavel 1260 S
Diavel multimedia
This new Diavel 1260 is also compatible with the Ducati Link App: this lets riders set ‘journey mode’ (a combination of Load Mode and Riding Mode) and personalise the parameters of each individual Riding Mode (ABS, Ducati Traction Control, etc.) in a user-friendly manner via their smartphones. This App also provides comprehensive maintenance deadline info, a user manual and a Ducati Store locator.
2019 Ducati Diavel 1260 dash
Furthermore, the Ducati Link App lets riders record performance and routes so they can share their new Diavel experiences with the Ducatisti community.
2019 Ducati Diavel 1260 S
2019 Ducati Diavel 1260 & Diavel 1260 S Specifications2019 Ducati Diavel 1260 S2019 Ducati Diavel 1260 S2019 Ducati Diavel 1260 S – Cruise control on the switchblock2019 Ducati Diavel 1260 S2019 Ducati Diavel 1260 S – Sculpted fuel tank2019 Ducati Diavel 1260 S
Sepang a positive weekend for Rossi despite crashing out of lead
Multi-time world champion salvages 18th in Malaysia.
Source: Supplied.
Valentino Rossi is still accepting Sepang’s penultimate round of the 2018 MotoGP World Championship as a positive weekend, despite crashing out of the lead with five laps remaining.
The multi-time world champions displayed strong form and looked to be in line for his first victory since Assen in 2017, however it wasn’t to be as a critical mistake saw him slide out in the closing stages while under pressure from Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda), who went onto seal victory.
The Italian ace remounted for 18th position and still retains third in the championship standings, although his chances of advancing to second in the rankings have been crushed, losing crucial points to rival Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati Team).
“It was a great shame because this was my best race of the season,” Rossi explained. “I felt comfortable, I had a good pace, I pushed, and I had the chance to win, but unfortunately with four or five laps to go I fell – I don’t understand what happened. I made a mistake, because I crashed.
“It’s such a pity, but it still remains a good weekend, because we improved the setting of the bike. I think we have to do some more work, but it looks like we were able to use the bike in a better way in the last few races. This is good, but we have to see if we’re also strong in Valencia. It’s a difficult track for us in general, but we have to try.”
The number 46 will return to action at Valencia in Spain on 18 November for the final round of the world championship.
2018 saw the 20th anniversary of one the most iconic designs in motorcycle history, the Yamaha YZF-R1.
The first 1998 model revolutionised superbike engineering and Yamaha have continued to use their industry defining superbike as a platform for innovation for two decades now.
GYTR Yamaha YZF-R1
To celebrate the 20th anniversary of their ground-breaking machine, three Yamaha Racing Teams entered the legendary Suzuka 8 Hours on YZF-R1’s sporting the vintage red and white livery of the original 1998 YZF-R1.
Katsuyuki Nakasuga – 2018 Suzuka 8 Hour
On-board their special edition machines and wearing matching leathers, the Yamaha Factory Racing Team of Alex Lowes, Michael van der Mark and Katsuyuki Nakasuga delivered a heroic effort to secure a historic consecutive 4th victory in this prestigious endurance race.
Yamaha Factory Racing Team – 2018 Suzuka 8 Hour winners
Marking this momentous occasion and two decades of leading the way in superbike technology, Yamaha Motor Europe will released a limited edition, track ready 2019 YZF-R1 GYTR.
GYTR 20th Anniversary Yamaha YZF-R1
Featuring the winning 20th Anniversary Suzuka 8 Hours livery including a wide range of GYTR Performance Products – Genuine Yamaha Technology Racing – and other performance parts as standard. The YZF-R1 GYTR is for track use only.
GYTR 20th Anniversary Yamaha YZF-R1
The key GYTR equipment on YZF-R1 GYTR includes a race wire harness set, ECU, CCU and quick throttle.
GYTR 20th Anniversary Yamaha YZF-R1
This exclusive racer also comes with a high performance Öhlins FGRT 219 front fork package.
GYTR 20th Anniversary Yamaha YZF-R1
Ohlins TTX36 GP rear shock and fully adjustable steering damper as well as a full titanium Akrapovič Evolution 2 exhaust system.
GYTR 20th Anniversary Yamaha YZF-R1
And to shield the bike, there are protectors for crankcase and wheel axles by Gilles Tooling.
GYTR 20th Anniversary Yamaha YZF-R1
There will also be an optional addition of non-Yamaha racing parts, specially selected and installed by racing engineers of a partnering Official Yamaha Racing Team. They ensure each bike will be adorned with a full carbon race fairing in iconic Suzuka 8 Hours livery and after their assembly a dyno engine break-in and tailored chassis set-up is performed, so each individual will be fully ready to conquer the track. This is a machine for true racing fans.
GYTR 20th Anniversary Yamaha YZF-R1
Yamaha Motor Europe will be releasing twenty units of this exclusive machine, one for each year the YZF-R1 has been setting pace in the superbike world.
GYTR 20th Anniversary Yamaha YZF-R1
The model shown at EICMA is a prototype and customers will have access to the final and full specifications as well as pricing in mid-December when customers will also be able to reserve their bike online before purchasing their 2019 YZF-R1 GYTR at an Official Yamaha Dealer.
GYTR 20th Anniversary Yamaha YZF-R1
Anyone lucky enough to get their hands on this unique piece of motorcycle history will also automatically receive admission to the 2019 Yamaha Racing Experience (YRE) where they will be taught by the specialists how to get the most out of their track ready racing machine.
Tenere 700 headlines launch, special edition YZF-R1 and XSR700 models introduced.
Source: Supplied.
Yamaha was one of the first to unveil a selection of its 2019 models at EICMA in Milan this weekend, with its presentation overnight being headlined by the all-new Tenere 700 amongst a special edition YZF-R1 and XSR700 motorcycles.
Now the time has come to re-establish Yamaha as a leading force in the adventure segment with the introduction of the all-new Tenere 700 – a lightweight no compromise adventure model with one of the highest specifications in its class, and one of the most exciting and significant new adventure models to be launched for many years.
Yamaha has revolutionised the motorcycle world with the development of the crossplane philosophy engines that power a range of the company’s best-selling models, and the new Tenere 700 is equipped with the highly respected 689cc parallel-twin engine.
The key characteristic of this compact CP2 engine is its strong and linear torque output that gives instant throttle response together with outstanding acceleration – attributes that make it a capable and versatile performer on and off the road.
Producing maximum torque at 6,500rpm, this engine offers the ideal balance of performance and controllability – and with its excellent fuel economy, it contributes towards the Tenere 700’s ability to cover long distances between fuel stops. Click here for more information.
Source: Supplied.
2018 saw the 20th anniversary of one the most iconic designs in motorcycle history, the Yamaha YZF-R1. This first 1998 model revolutionised superbike engineering. The engine size and position, the configuration of parts within the chassis and the chassis itself were all re-imagined. Yamaha have continued to use their industry defining superbike as a platform for innovation for two decades now, reaching unprecedented levels of excellence in the sport bike industry.
Marking this momentous occasion and two decades of leading the way in superbike technology, Yamaha Motor Europe are proud to announce they will be releasing the limited edition, track ready 2019 YZF-R1 GYTR.
Featuring the winning 20th Anniversary Suzuka 8 Hours livery including a wide range of GYTR Performance Products – Genuine Yamaha Technology Racing – and other performance parts as standard. Pricing and availability in Australia is yet to be confirmed.
Source: Supplied.
Over 40 years ago Yamaha introduced the XT500, an air-cooled four-stroke single that went on to become one of Europe’s best-loved motorcycles.
The key to its success was simple design, useable power and all round versatility, and with its XT-inspired colours and classic scrambler looks, the new XSR700 XTribute respects the XT’s true character and pays homage to this iconic bike.
This special combination of timeless good looks and modern technology perfectly illustrates the true spirit of the Faster Sons philosophy, and with its unique specification the XSR700 XTribute gives a new generation of riders the chance to celebrate the past.
While at the same time it benefits from the very latest technology and an outstanding riding experience. Availability along with domestic pricing has not yet been revealed.
For 2019, the XT1200Z and XT1200ZE will be available in a new Ceramic Ice colour option that sharpens their rugged looks. Equipped with 74-litre side cases, a high screen and fog lamps, the exclusive XT1200ZE Raid Edition is continued for 2019.
Miller extracting ‘small victories’ from Sepang MotoGP encounter
Medium-compound tyre strategy backfires for the Australian.
Source: Supplied.
Pramac Racing’s Jack Miller charged to eighth position at the weekend’s penultimate round of the MotoGP World Championship, marking the third-consecutive time he’s achieved that result at the Malaysian grand prix in the premier class.
According to the likeable Australian, he’s extracting ‘small victories’ out of his performance, highlighting an improved gap behind the leaders as he crossed the line in the 20-lap affair.
“That’s now three years in a row that I’ve been eighth here, so you look for small victories,” said Miller in his Red Bull column. “In 2016 and ’17, I was more than half a minute behind the winner – this time, it was 19 seconds. So, progress to some extent, but it’s hard not to feel a bit flat after being less than seven seconds from the front at Phillip Island last weekend.”
Miller once again opted for an alternative tyre strategy that differed from the trend amongst the field, sporting a medium-compound at the rear, which unfortunately failed to deliver for the Queensland-native.
It’s the second round in a row that tyre strategy has backfired for the Ducati pilot, although Miller expressed the importance of going against the grain in order to make possible gains on the factory-prepared machines.
“We went for the medium-compound rear tyre, and I was the only one of us on the entire grid to race it, everyone else used the soft,” he continued. “We had a warm-up session on Sunday on a damp track still, so we didn’t do any laps on slicks on Sunday before the race. It was a bit of an educated guess for all of us with tyre choice, and mine didn’t work.
“When you’re racing the factory guys, doing the same as them with tyres means you’re going to probably finish behind them because of the equipment they have. It’d become a game of follow the leader where you know where you’ll finish, more or less. If the medium tyre had have paid off for me today, it would have looked like a masterstroke.
“You have to try to do something different to come up with a different outcome. I’m not under any pressure from behind in the championship, there’s nothing to lose, so I thought I’d give the medium a go.”
Miller sits 13th in the championship rankings with just one round to spare in the series, scheduled for 18 November at Valencia in Spain.
The wait for Yamaha’s Tenere 700 to go on sale, or even for its final specifications to be released, has been an excruciating one for adventure enthusiasts, particularly those with a tuning fork bent.
Yamaha Tenere 700
At EICMA overnight Yamaha have released images of a production ready Tenere 700, and also detailed most of the technical specifications. However, the one spec’ that most people are hanging for, wet weight, is still missing from the documentation.
Yamaha Tenere 700 with big brother Tenere 1200
We do know that the engine will be a 689cc version of Yamaha’s now well established and popular parallel twin CP2 engine as seen in the MT-07 and XSR700.
Yamaha Tenere 700
An 11.5:1 compression ratio suggests that the engine is tuned for a broad spread of torque rather than an all-out hunt for maximum performance, as you would expect with this style of machine. Yamaha have stated that maximum torque is produced at 6500rpm, which is where the MT-07 also makes its peak twist of 68 Nm.
Yamaha Tenere 700
The MT-07 also runs 11.5:1 compression, thus while Yamaha are yet to state the power output of the Tenere 700 it is logical to deduce that it will be almost identical to the 74 horsepower at 9000 rpm power peak of the MT-07.
Yamaha Tenere 700 Video
That’s not a bad thing, why mess with what works, and we know the MT-07 engine works well.
Yamaha Tenere 700
The frame is all-new for Tenere 700. A lightweight double-cradle tubular steel frame forms the backbone of the new machine which rolls on a 1590 mm wheelbase and offers a generous 240 mm of ground clearance.
Yamaha Tenere 700
Of course lots of ground clearance generally also means a relatively tall perch, and the Tenere 700 has aimed to strike a balance with a seat height of 880 mm.
Yamaha Tenere 700
Fully-adjustable 43 mm upside down forks control a spoked 21-inch front rim and offer 210 mm of suspension travel.
Yamaha Tenere 700
The shock absorber appears to have a large reservoir, to help resist fade and maintain consistent damping control, and operates through a 200 mm stroke to the linkage. Preload is adjusted by convenient hand-wheel.
Yamaha Tenere 700
Tyres are 90/90-21 and 150/70-18 Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR.
Yamaha Tenere 700
A pair of 282 mm front discs and a 245 mm rear include a switchable ABS system. Calipers are Brembo.
Yamaha Tenere 700
We know that the MT-7 engine is relatively frugal which means that the 16-litre fuel tank of the Tenere 700 should be good for ranges of between 230 and 300 kilometres, depending on the terrain and your right wrist. Yamaha are claiming a range of 350 km+ from the 16-litre fuel cell.
Yamaha Tenere 700
The tank appears to be slim between the knees and the seat designed to cater for animated riding.
Yamaha Tenere 700
A rally style cockpit, complete with comprehensive LCD screen, promises ergonomics suitable for both sitting and standing riding positions.
Yamaha have also made provisions for the fitment of aftermarket navigation devices or smart-phones.
Yamaha Tenere 700
The stark brace of four LED lights first seen on the prototype seem to be making it across to the production machiine.
Yamaha Tenere 700
The lights are protected by a clear nacelle which then seems to blend in the with a tall, but narrow, windscreen.
Yamaha Tenere 700
The Tenere 700 is expected to arrive in Australian and NZ showrooms late in 2019. The price is yet to be set.
Ducati have announced a host of updates to the Multistrada 950 for 2019, including a six-axis Bosch IMU and Cornering ABS, as well as the addition of Vehicle Hold Control and a hydraulic clutch.
2019 Ducati Multistrada 950
Other updates include a lighter swingarm, lightweight alloy wheels including spoked versions, as well as an updated dash and auto-cancelling indicators, which also make use of the Bosch IMU.
2019 Ducati Multistrada 950 S
In addition to updates to the standard 950, Ducati have also announced an up-spec Multistrada 950 S which feature’s the brand’s Ducati Skyhook Suspension system, an Up & Down Ducati Quick Shifter, full LED headlight, a 5-inch colour TFT with Hands Free system as standard, Cruise Control and backlit switchgear controls.
2019 Ducati Multistrada 950 S with spoked wheels
2019 Multistrada 950 updates
A host of additions in 2019 offer many of the advantages of the larger Multistrada 1260S, while retaining the 950’s more manageable package.
2019 Ducati Multistrada 950 S with panniers
From a styling viewpoint, the new Multistrada 950 also inherits the side ‘wings’ from its bigger 1260 counterpart, making the front even cleaner and more aerodynamic.
2019 Ducati Multistrada 950 S
The tubular steel Trellis frame is linked to the new lighter double-sided aluminium swingarm and the 19in front wheel offers ideal handling characteristics, with lighter wheels featured across the 2019 950 models.
2019 Ducati Multistrada 950 S
Suspension offers a generous 170mm of travel to keep comfort levels high and the 20-litre tank puts plenty of miles between refuelling stops.
2019 Ducati Multistrada 950 S
The electronics package now includes Bosch Cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control, Vehicle Hold Control and, on the Multistrada 950 S, semi-active Ducati Skyhook Suspension, Ducati Quick Shift up/down (available as an accessory for the Multistrada 950), Ducati Cornering Lights and Cruise Control.
2019 Ducati Multistrada 950 S
Both the Multistrada 950 and the Multistrada 950 S can mount the Ducati Multimedia System.
The 937cc twin-cylinder Testastretta 11° engine in its current iteration puts out 111 horsepower (83 kW) at 9000rpm and 96 Nm of torque at 7750rpm. It is equipped with a self-servo wet slipper clutch that now requires less on-lever effort thanks to the new hydraulic control system.
2019 Ducati Multistrada 950 S
Maintenance intervals are set at 15,000 km or 12 months, with valve play inspection every 30,000 km offering good value servicing intervals.
The Multistrada 950 is available in Ducati Red while the Multistrada 950 S comes in Ducati Red and Glossy Grey.
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What Went Down Last Weekend?
Wildwood Rock Extreme Enduro – Victoria
AMA EnduroCross Series – Boise, ID
World Vet Championships – Glen Helen, CA
Canadian Triple Crown Supercross – Quebec
Cooper Wins Waikato Champs
Russia to Stage 2019 FIM Speedway of Nations Finals
Beaton, Ostlund and Jasikonis to Husqvarna for 2019
Bollinger to Husqvarna for GNCC
Wilson to SX-Open at Mt Smart
Anstie to KTM in 2019
Bopping to CDR Yamaha
RIP Dan Villopoto
Three New Riders for CycleTrader/Rock River Yamaha
Australian MX Nationals Dates Announced?
What Racing is Left for 2018?
Wildwood Rock Extreme Enduro – Victoria
158 riders turned up to tackle the 2018 Wildwood Rock Extreme Enduro but despite the best efforts of the local punters it was international sensation Wade Young who took just under three hours to win the event for the second year in a row.
Wade Young claimed the 2018 Wildwood Rock Extreme Enduro win
Young won the event by completing six laps in 2 hours and 51 minutes while second placed rider Wade Ibrahim ended the day some ten minutes behind Young but almost eight minutes ahead of third placed Tim Coleman.
Extreme Challenge Top Ten
Wade Young – 2:51:52.298
Wade Ibrahim – 3:01:54.424
Timothy Coleman – 3:08:29.045
Hamish MacDonald – 3:16:10.434
Mitch Harper – 3:23:26.636
Ruben Chadwick – 3:26:09.563
Robert Nowak – 2:53:50.645
Chris Perry – 2:55:25.952
Jake Whitaker – 2:58:32.980
Anthony Solar – 3:01:32.306
AMA EnduroCross Series – Boise, ID
Colton Haaker has won his second AMA EnduroCross championship with a conservative second place finish at the Boise finale while Cody Webb did everything he could to hang onto his number one plate by taking the win in front of another large and enthusiastic crowd.
Colton Haaker – Image by Tanner Yeager
Third place for the night went to Ty Tremaine, who also narrowly beat Kyle Redmond for third in the championship after both battled for most of the main event.
Ty Cullins blasted his Beta 300 two-stroke to the front at the start of the main event, just ahead of Haaker and Webb. The two championship combatants moved past Cullins, who had troubles and dropped back to ninth by the end of the first lap. Haaker led the first two laps and Webb jumped a huge log double to close right up to his back wheel and then made a pass for the lead on lap three.
Colton Haaker – Image by Tanner Yeager
Webb kept jumping the large double to open a gap on Haaker, who was riding a conservative race to clinch the championship. Haaker made it through the No Joke Lane on lap nine of fifteen and the only drama remaining for Webb was to make it through the No Joke Lane himself without losing time. Webb did that on lap eleven and went on for his third win of the season.
The battle for third in the race and championship between Tremaine and Redmond was intense. Redmond came into the race with a single point lead over Tremaine so whichever rider finished in front of the other would take the spot. Tremaine quickly worked up from eighth position on lap one to lock into a battle with Redmond. They traded third a few times before Tremaine opened a gap in the closing laps. Redmond held on for fourth position in the race and championship.
Colton Haaker – Image by Tanner Yeager
Colton Haaker
“This whole season it’s been Cody (Webb) and I going back-and-forth, back-and-forth and the championship really came down to a few key moments, like the halfway point in the season when we’re tied, and I knew what we had to do to win. For me, I think last weekend in Everett was the championship night. I knew if I could win there I could win the title. I never won in Everett before that, so I think I made it happen there. Tonight, I got a great start and rode clean and smooth and Cody passed me and got a bit of a gap. He was riding really solid tonight and taking some extra risks that I didn’t have to. I just wanted to bring it home here and I’m so happy we did. It’s amazing to come back and win the EnduroCross title again after losing it. It wasn’t easy coming back from not winning and gaining the confidence to get back up to the front.”
Colton Haaker – Image by Tanner Yeager
Cody Webb
“The season and my riding were good despite how little prep time I had coming in. I got the win at round one in Prescott and that was just really lucky. Even by Costa Mesa I only had a couple 12-minute motos in me before the race. I just fell apart in the main and couldn’t hold on. The rest of the year I focused on getting back to doing full motos in training. That had me riding better and by Denver, things got really aggressive and I couldn’t seem to keep up the intensity there. So, I started doing more bracket-style training, riding as hard as I could go. I felt like a steam engine this year. I started out sluggish and kept throwing more fuel to the fire and, by the end of the year, I was back to full-steam ahead. Losing the championship is a bummer but it’s nice to cap of the season with a big win here in Idaho like this. I was doing stuff on the track no one else was doing and it was fun to win the crowd over by jumping big stuff. Now, it’s off to get my arm pump under control and SuperEnduro prep.”
Cody Webb
Ty Tremaine
“The season started off great with the Alta electric bike. They were putting in a lot of effort with me and the EnduroCross program and they, unfortunately, closed up shop. So, I’m really lucky Beta took a chance with me and I just tried to keep my head down and not let anything get to me so there really isn’t a reason I shouldn’t have performed on any bike. Going into the off-season I’m working really hard. I’m really happy about where we’re going from here.”
Ty Cullins
“I’ve been working super hard all year. My main goal was to get top fives and, about halfway through the season, I was in the lead for the Junior Championship and I focused on that as the goal for the year. It’s just been a great year. I finished top-five in half the races, I shared the holeshot tonight with Colton Haaker and I am just looking forward to getting the details for next year dialed in and come back better than ever.”
Boise EnduroCross Main Event
Cody Webb
Colton Haaker
Ty Tremaine
Kyle Redmond
Ty Cullins
Geoff Aaron
Cory Graffunder
Max Gerston
Noah Kepple
Cooper Abbott
Colton Haaker – Image by Tanner Yeager
Super EnduroCross Rider Point Standings
Colton Haaker – 150 points
Cody Webb – 146 points
Ty Tremaine – 100 points
Kyle Redmond – 99 points
Geoff Aaron – 90 points
Ty Cullins – 89 points
Noah Kepple – 83 points
Cooper Abbott – 76 points
Mason Ottersberg – 55 points
Dustin McCarthy – 53 points
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World Vet Championships – Glen Helen, CA
The annual World Vet Motocross Championship was held at Glen Helen in California last weekend and you will recognise many a rider in the results below including ANZACS Daryl Hurley, Tony Cooksley and Barry Surwaski.
Hurley was the star performer with a win in the 40+ Pro class and hard fought 4th in the 30+ Pro class while Surwaski managed a 10th in the 40+ Pro class despite being on a YZ250F against a full field of 450s.
30+ Pro Class
Josh Grant (Kaw)–1-1
Jeff Loop (Yam)–3-2
Tonni Andersen (KTM)–2-3
Daryl Hurley (Suz)–4-4
Kris Keefer (Yam)–6-5
40+ Pro Class
Daryl Hurley (Sus) 2-1
Kurt Nicoll (KTM) 3-2
Kris Keefer (Yam) 1-4
Steve Powell (Suz) 5-6
Todd Gravitt (KYM) 7-5
Matt Karlsen ((kaw) 6-7
Matthieu Smith (Hon) 8-8
Bill Fosnock (Hon) 9-9
Craig Brown (Kaw) 11-10
Barry Surawski (Yam) 13-11
50+ Pro Class
Kurt Nicoll (KTM)–1-1
Don Bisceglia (Hus)–2-2
Ed Foedish (Yam)–3-3
Darren Cahill (Yam)–5-4
Jon Ortner (Yam)–6-5
25+ Expert Class
Stephen Martin (Hon)–DNF-1
Billy Lea (Yam)–1-DNS
Vince Giancana (Suz)–2-DNS
William Smith (Kaw)–3-DNS
30+ Expert Class
Brody Jennings (Yam)–2-1
Jesse Mobley (Suz)–4-2
Lucas Frye (Hon)–3-DNS
35+ Expert Class
Mirko Milani (KTM)–1-1
Jeff Northrop (Hus)–3-2
Kenny Bell (Suz)–DNF-3
Imre Adamek (KTM)–2-DNS
40+ Expert Class
Matthieu Smith (Hon)–1-1
Shawn Bushnell (Hon)–2-2
Laurence Wiltshire (KTM)–3-3
Billy Van Vugt (Suz)–8-4
Ralf Schmidt (TM)–7-5
45+ Expert Class
Mike Reefman (Yam)–1-1
Craig Davis (Hus)–3-2
Fabio Occhiolini (Hon)–2-3
Brian Storrie (Hus)–4-4
Glenn Carmody (Kaw)–6-5
55+ Expert Class
Kevin Foley (Suz)–1-1
Robert Reisinger (Hus)–3-2
Tommy Grandstroem (Hon)–2-3
Michael Clement (Hus)–6-4
Milt Reimer (Yam)–4-6
60+ Expert Class
Pete De Graaf (KTM)–1-1
Isao Ida (Hon)–2-2
Eric McKenna (KTM)–4-3
Mark Kaestner (Yam)–3-5
Trey Jorski (KTM)–6-4
Val Tamietti (Yam)–7-6
Tony Cooksley (Yam)–5-9
65+ Expert Class
Carl Garafy –1-1
Bruce Sass (Yam)–2-2
Dwight Catalano (Yam)–4-3
Mic Rodgers (Hus)–3-DNS
70+ All Class
Gary Chase (Yam)–1-2
Jim O’neal (Yam)–3-3
Bill Maxiam (Hon)–2-6
Roque Colman (Hon)–5-4
Steve Machado (Yam)–4-5
Woman Expert
Steffi Laier (KTM)–1-1
Vicki Golden (Suz)–2-2
Nicole Pitell-Vaughan (Hon)–3-3
Holly Break (Yam)–4-4
Canadian Triple Crown Supercross – Quebec
Round three of the Rockstar Triple Crown Championship took place in Quebec last weekend and the final featured a controversial finish between title contenders Cole Thompson and Colton Facciotti – the result of which is under investigation by the promoters and the governing body.
Facciotti held the lead over Thompson going into the final corner where Thompson ran into the side of Facciotti as they exited the corner before going over the finish line. Both riders crashed and Facciotti went off the side of the finish line jump, landed on his back and despite Facciotti going over the finish line first Thompson was credited with the win, with Facciotti taking second while Phil Nicoletti finished third.
Facciotti did not attend the podium celebration after the race and was kept in the hospital overnight with a lung and back injury. Derek Schuster confirms Colton is out for the remainder of the season.
Jess Pettis got the win the 250 class ahead of Logan Karnow and Shawn Maffenbeier and with one round remaining takes an 11 point lead in the championship.
450 Overall
Cole Thompson
Colton Facciotti
Phil Nicoletti
Cody VanBuskirk
Tyler Medaglia
Daniel Herrlein
Cheyenne Harmon
Matt Goerke
Keylan Meston
Eric Jeffrey
450 Championship Standings
Cole Thompson – 83
Colton Facciotti – 74
Phil Nicoletti – 65
Matt Goerke – 58
Tyler Medaglia – 58
250 Overall
Jess Pettis
Logan Karnow
Shawn Maffenbeier
Tanner Ward
Marco Cannella
250 Championship Standings
Jess Pettis 90
Logan Karnow – 79
Shawn Maffenbeier – 77
Marco Cannella – 65
Tanner Ward – 59
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Cooper Wins Waikato Champs
Despite still feeling the effects of a chest infection that has reduced him to the couch for several weeks Honda rider Cody Cooper has once again won the annual Waikato Motocross Championships near Te Kuiti last weekend.
After arch rival Kayne Lamont was injured Cooper easily accounted for Cohen Chase and Reece Walker on a stock standard 2019 Honda CRF450R.
Cody Cooper
“I was feeling quite tired in the last race. I was feeling quite shaky as my body hasn’t recovered from the bug I had.”
Cooper Webb who joins KTM Factory Racing in 2019 won the Waikato Champs
The 35 year old Cooper will now look at getting his bike and body in shape for the up-coming New Zealand Motocross Championships.
Russia to Stage 2019 FIM Speedway of Nations Finals
World Championship speedway is bound for Russia next year as the reigning world champions host the Monster Energy FIM Speedway of Nations (SON) Finals in Togliatti on July 20 and 21.
Russian duo Artem Laguta and Emil Sayfutdinov stormed to victory at this year’s Finals in Wroclaw, breaking Great Britain’s hearts in an epic title decider to win the nation’s first ever speedway world title.
Togliatti Circuit – Russia
The country has been a huge force in the ice speedway world, with Togliatti’s Anatoly Stepanov Stadium a regular venue for world-class events, including the 2019 FIM Team Ice Speedway World Championship on February 16 and 17.
BSI Speedway managing director Torben Olsen is excited by the prospect of bringing the sport’s biggest names to Togliatti.
Torben Olsen
“It has long been our wish to bring the FIM Speedway World Championships presented by Monster Energy to Russia. Following their Monster Energy SON win last summer and the country’s hugely successful staging of the FIFA World Cup, there really couldn’t be a better time to be taking this event to Togliatti. “
The 353-metre Togliatti circuit is home to Russian speedway and ice speedway teams Mega-Lada Togliatti. The stadium also serves as a technical sports school for children, a sports bar, a hotel and the only specialised youth speedway track in Russia.
Alexei Stepanov – President of the Mega-Lada Club
“Thanks to many years of fruitful work, developing and popularising motorcycle sports in Russia, and the special support of the Samara regional government and the governor, Mr. Dmitry Azarov, this summer Togliatti’s Anatoly Stepanov Stadium will host the final rounds of the prestigious team event, the Monster Energy FIM Speedway of Nations. I am sure that the national teams shall enjoy the racing, and fans and friends coming from all over the world shall like staying in Togliatti. We will do our best to write Togliatti’s name in the glorious history of world speedway.”
The competing countries in the 2019 Monster Energy SON will be revealed in due course.
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Beaton, Ostlund and Jasikonis to Husqvarna for 2019
Just a week after confirming that the 2017 MX2 World Motocross Champion Pauls Jonass will compete in the MXGP class on Husqvarna machinery, the iconic brand has backed that up with the signing of Jed Beaton, Arminas Jasikonis and Alvin Ostlund for the 2019 World Motocross Championships.
Australian star Beaton will join Thomas Kjer-Olsen with the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing MX2 team for the 2019 and 2020 FIM Motocross World Championship seasons under the guidance of former FIM 500cc Motocross World Champion Jacky Martens.
Jed Beaton
“It’s a great honour for me to join the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna MX2 team. Growing up in Australia, it’s been a lifelong dream of mine to be able to race the Motocross World Championship. As a member of the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna MX2 team I believe I am in the best possible position to fight for the ultimate goal of becoming world champion. The team never cease to impress me with their professionalism and I am really looking forward to starting the new chapter of my career with them.”
Jed Beaton to Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing MX2 Team in 2019
Jasikonis will race for the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing MXGP team throughout the 2019 season and the 21-year-old racer from Lithuania will partner Jonass in a highly promising two-rider team that will compete in the MXGP class.
Arminas Jasikonis
“I’m really looking forward to entering the 2019 series with the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna MXGP team. I’ve been closely following their work and to finally be a member of this great team feels like a dream has come true. I admire their professionalism and I am willing to work harder than ever so I can give my best in each and every GP. This will be my third full season in the MXGP category and I am really motivated to make it the best one so far. Coming from a shoulder injury, I’ve worked really hard to be physically stronger and I’m now looking forward to start riding my new FC 450 machine. It’s a great bike and I believe I am capable of doing great things aboard this machine.”
Arminas Jasikonis & Antti Pyrhonen
Swedish rider Alvin Ostlund will race the 2019 MX2 championship for the Revo Husqvarna which will also become a Factory supported satellite team for 2019.
Alvin Ostlund
“It is finally official now, I can say I have signed for Revo Husqvarna for 2019! It is a very good bike and I am looking forward to the season ahead next year. Hopefully we can have a good winter now and then this will mean a good start to the season. I am doing both the British and the MXGP series next year, this is a lot more riding then I have ever done before as I have only ever done one series. I have been with Yamaha for the past 8 years and so this is a big change for me, the Husqvarna FC 250 is totally different with the engine and suspension but as soon as I got on the bike I enjoyed riding it. It feels good, I can’t wait!
Bollinger Replaces Strang at Husqvarna for GNCC
Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing have announced that Trevor Bollinger will join the squad for the 2019 Amsoil Grand National Cross Country Series as the teammate to Thad Duvall, who finished second in this year’s series.
Trevor Bollinger
“I am excited to be riding for the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing team. It’s a real honour to be working with such a professional group. I look forward to doing great things together.”
Timmy Weigand – Team Manager
“Trevor will be a great addition to our team, he has had a successful career already and we are happy to have him out there racing the GNCC series.”
At Rockstar Energy Husqvarna, Bollinger takes the place of veteran (and 2010 GNCC Champion) Josh Strang, who took sixth overall in this year’s GNCC points.
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Wilson to SX-Open at Mt Smart
The Monster Energy S-X Open Auckland is shaping up to be a grand slam of the world’s best superstars this year, with Dean Wilson confirmed for the November 24 blockbuster inside Mt Smart Stadium.
Dean Wilson
“I’m super excited to be coming to New Zealand and competing in the first ever S-X Open Auckland. It’s perfect timing for me to come down and really put in a good performance; with the high caliber names that are competing this year, if I can beat them, then I’m back on the international radar, which is what I’m aiming for. I’m sure the Kiwi fans are going to be excited you know, their first real big supercross with some fast guys and world champions, it’s just going to be a really exciting event so hopefully, they’re loud and ready for some good racing.
Dean Wilson
“I’ve never been to New Zealand before but it does look like a beautiful country, it’s very green, nice rolling hills, it is a bit like Scotland. I really am looking forward to it. I’m going to see as much as I can, but obviously, I need to get back to the States and get training. I’m just lucky enough to get to go check it out. It’s going to be super cool and I’m looking forward to it
“I grew up watching Ben Townley when I was younger and you know he was always a guy that battled Villopoto and looked like he was trying half as hard, it was really funny to watch. A very talented guy and yeah, he’s a legend.”
Dean Wilson will ride a DPH Motorsport team prepared, Husqvarna FC450
Wilson will ride a DPH Motorsport team prepared, Husqvarna FC450 at this year’s Monster Energy S-X Open Auckland.
During last year’s event, the 26-year-old took top honours during the Saturday night AUS-X Open final in Australia last year, backing that up with a strong second place on Sunday.
Anstie to KTM in 2019
Max Anstie has agreed to a one-year deal with Standing Construct KTM to join 2018 MXoN winner Glenn Coldenhoff (moving over from Red Bull KTM) and Ivo Monticelli on the team.
Max Anstie
“I’m really looking forward to 2019, the Standing Construct KTM team are a great crew, we have great material and a solid programme. We will be ready to perform in 2019! I’m very grateful to KTM and Tim for making this happen and giving me this opportunity.”
Max Anstie
Tim Mathys – Team Manager
“I am very happy to have signed Max to ride for our team in 2019, already in our MX2 period we were seriously interested in Max and also earlier this season we showed interest in him. With the support of KTM we managed to find an agreement and I think that we have a strong team heading into the 2019 MXGP season.”
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Bopping to CDR Yamaha
Lawson Bopping will compete on the CDR Yamaha YZ450F at the AUS-X Open in Sydney and the SX Open event in New Zealand after injuries to Dean Ferris and Nathan Crawford have left a seat vacant for the two biggest events of the year.
Bopping, who raced for the team in 2012 and 2013, took a couple of years away from racing due to health concerns but returned for this years’ Australian Supercross Championship and has been placing well in the premier SX1 division where he currently sits in eighth place with just the Sydney round remaining.
Craig Dack – Team Manager
“With the last two events of the year the highest profile on our racing calendar, I felt it was important that we were well represented by having two bikes on the track. We have a commitment to our sponsors to provide them with quality riders, good coverage at events and solid results and we believe Lawson can fill that role for us at these two events. Lawson will slot in easily for us as he knows everyone on the team, has worked with us in the past and is very comfortable on the Yamaha YZ450F. We have no expectations on him other them compete like he has every other weekend and represent our team, brand and sponsors well and I’m sure he will do a great job. It’s a shame that injures to Dean Ferris and Nathan Crawford have occurred, but racing is a tough game sometimes. The good news is both are recovering well and will be back to 100% in the near future.”
CDR Yamaha’s Craig Dack
For Bopping, it’s an unexpected return to the big rigs of professional racing. At the end of the 2015 season, Bopping took some time off racing to allow his health to recover after running himself into the ground.
Although he stopped racing, he never lost his love for riding a dirt bike and now with his health back under control, Bopping opted to join back into the racing fray for the 2018 Australian Supercross Championship and has enjoyed life in the fast lane once again.
Lawson Bopping
“I was pretty ran down by the end of the 2015 season and it felt like I just never had any energy so I had to make the call to step away from racing and get my body right. I wouldn’t say I’m 100% fit, but I feel pretty healthy at the moment and I’m loving being back at the races and doing supercross. It’s pretty exciting to get the call from Craig to do these final two rounds. It’s never good to get the gig because of rider injures so I feel for both Dean and Nathan in their situations. It’s going to be fun racing for CDR Yamaha again and I look forward to hanging out with the guys and racing their amazing bikes for the next couple of weekends and hopefully I can do a good job of keeping the CDR Yamaha Monster Energy Team flag flying high.”
Current CDR Yamaha Monster Energy Team racer, Dylan Long, sits fifth in the points and looking to improve at the final round in Sydney.
The AUS-X Open roars to life at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney on November 9 and 10, while the SX Open in Auckland will tear up Mt Smart Stadium on November 27.
McAdoo Set for AUS-X
20-year-old American Cameron Mcadoo has signed on to replace Bradley Taft as Penrite Honda Racing’s sole SX2 rider for this weekend’s AUS-X and for young star can’t wait to race in Australia alongside fellow Iowa rider Justin Brayton.
Cameron Mcadoo
“I have been riding and training with Justin at Club MX for the past two seasons. He is an inspiration and offers great advice and support. He always talks about Australia and I truly appreciate the opportunity Penrite Honda has given me to come out and compete. I was happy with several MX finishes and I hope to carry that momentum into Sydney. The bike here is competitive and I have watched the success they have had with many riders in the SX2 class over the last few seasons.”
Team director Yarrive Konsky considered all options for the teams SX2 replacement, but felt this was the best outcome.
Yarrive Konsky – Team Director
“We looked at riders in our RED RIDER program but they are aligned with different sponsors and we didn’t feel it was justified to disrupt that. All other top 10 riders are aligned with other brands so we wanted someone who was on a Honda and could fit straight into our program,” said Konsky.
RIP Dan Villopoto
Not long after helping his son Ryan compete in the Red Bull Straight Rhythm event and right in the middle of preparing for AUS-X in Australia, Dan Villopoto passed away late last week from a massive heart attack.
Ryan Villopoto paid tribute to his father, Dan
“This world we live in is a giving place but at the same time it can be cruel,” Ryan said from his @RyanVillopoto Instagram account. “I spent the last six weeks with my dad day in and day out working and training for the upcoming races overseas. For the first time in a long time it was real again, like when I was young. Love you Dad! You will be sorely missed by all.”
Smarty’s Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax
Three New Riders for CycleTrader/Rock River Yamaha
CycleTrader/Rock River Yamaha has signed Matt Bisceglia to contest the 2019 supercross season in the 450 class while in the 250 Class Brandon Hartranft and Jacob Hayes have signed to compete in both the AMA Supercross and the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championships.
What Racing is Left for 2018?
The countdown is on for the 93rd FIM International Six Day Enduro (ISDE), as Australia’s World Trophy, Junior Trophy and Women’s Trophy Teams head off to Vina del Mar, Chile this weekend and all of our teams have the ability to take the win while we also look to Sydney for AUS-X with Chad Reed touted as the favourite to win the event once again.
The Red Bull Knock Out Beach Race is on this weekend too and the big news is that MXoN winner Glenn Coldenhoff will go for victory against the World SS Enduro riders Billy Bolt, Josep Garcia, Taddy Blazusiak, Nathan Watson and Jonny Walker while Weston Beach race winner Todd Kellett is also on hand to have a crack at taking the win – see the list of the remaining events for 2018 below:
Australasia
Australian Supercross Championships – Nov. 11 – AUS-X Open – Sydney
New Zealand Supercross Championships
Nov. 24 – SX Open – Auckland
Dec. 1 – South Waikato
Dec. 15 – Southland
America
2018 AMA World Off-Road Championships (WORCS) – Nov. 9-11 – Primm, NV
2018 THOR Mini Olympics – Nov. 19-24 – Gainesville, FL
2018 Day In The Dirt – Nov. 24-26 – Glen Helen, CA
Canadian Triple Crown Supercross – Nov. 17 – Hamilton
Europe
Stuttgart Supercross – Nov. 9-10 – Germany
2018 Paris Supercross – Nov. 17-18 – Paris, France
World Enduro Super Series (WESS) – Nov. 10 – Red Bull Knock Out Beach Race – The Netherlands
ISDE – Nov. 12-17 – Chile
Geneva Supercross – Nov. 30/Dec. 1 – Switzerland
Smarty’s Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax
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