Just as well our borders are now open with Western Australia opening next month as Ducati Australia has announced a special track day held at the famous Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.
It will be a great opportunity to blast your Panigale, Monster, Streetfighter, Multistrada or even Scrambler around the same tracks as Troy Bayliss and other Ducati MotGP and World Superbike stars.
The track day is on 4 March 2022 and prices start at $420.
That includes six 20-minute track sessions, a Ducati gift bag, a meet and greet session with the DesmoSport Ducati team rider Bryan Staring, a tour of his Panigale V4 R Australian Superbike Championship bike, a catered lunch, cold drinks and a pre-ride review with Bryan and crew chief Ben Henry about track lines, track position and more.
Ben says it’s a great opportunity not only for experienced riders, but also new riders to “benefit from their experience to improve their riding and discover the capabilities of their bikes”.
Ducati Owners Club members receive an additional Desmosport Ducati Merchandise Pack.
You can also pay an extra $174 for on-track riding tips with the DesmoSport Ducati Team, $100 for pro riding tips and $75 for suspension settings by the factory team, but all spaces are limited, so book quickly.
There will be three riding groups based on track riding ability from advanced to beginners.
Riders will need to remove or tape all glass and mirrors and bikes will be scrutineers for safety.
They can ride on any Motorcycling Australia licence or buy a one-event recreational licence.
For more info, click here. Bookings close on18 February 2022.
They have also announced a new three-year/unlimited kilometre factory warranty for the bikes.
The adventure bikes start at $29,990 rideaway for the Tiger 1200 GT Pro and $32,600 for the GT Explorer, both featuring road-biased 19-inch front and 18-inch rear cast aluminium wheels and tyres.
GT Pro
GT Explorer
The more off-road-capable Rally family with 21-inch front and 18-inch rear tubeless spoked wheels start at $31,800 for the Rally Pro with the flagship Rally Explorer from $33,950 rideaway.
Rally Pro
Rally Explorer
Triumph says the new range is up to 25kg lighter, more powerful, with improved handling and specification.
They are powered by a new 1160cc T-plane triple engine with 112kW of power, up 7kW, and 130Nm of torque.
One of the standout features is the very handy long-range 30-litre fuel tank in the GT Explorer and Rally Explorer, while the other two models have a 20-litre tank.
Here are some of the other new features:
lightweight chassis and frame with bolt-on rear aluminium subframe and pillion hangers;
lighter and stronger ‘tri-link’ swingarm;
Brembo Stylema monobloc brakes plus optimised cornering ABS with IMU;
Showa semi-active suspension;
slimmer waist and more compact design;
rider ergonomics designed, including adjustable seat height, which can be lowered even further with an accessory low seat.
Technology abounds, including a Blind Spot Radar System, 7.0-inch TFT instruments with smartphone connectivity, up to six riding modes, keyless ignition and fuel cap lock, LED lighting with Adaptive Cornering Lights, Shift Assist on all models, hill hold and heated grips.
The Explorer models also get heated seats and tyre pressure monitors.
There is a dedicated Tiger 1200 accessory range including several luggage options, one of which was developed with Givi.
Triumph has also announced a new partnership with the communication brand Sena to produce a Bluetooth headset featuring a new Harman Kardon speakers.
Marc Marquez: “I am feeling very happy, first to be back on a bike at the track and also because we were able to confirm the sensations I had on a motocross bike here with the road bike. It’s a great feeling, a feeling of relief because when I was riding, I didn’t have any discomfort with my vision. Since I haven’t ridden in so long, I did notice some physical areas where I’m missing a little bit but this is just because I have not been able to have my usual pre-season. There’s a margin to improve but the positive and the fundamental take away from this test was to reconfirm the feeling we had when we first got on the motocross bike and to enjoy the good feeling of speed. I have completed an intense day of riding with long runs, I am very happy with the results. We have two weeks until testing begins in Sepang so I will take the opportunity to intensify my physical preparation and train on the bike.”
“How good is the bike going to be? We’ll see in a few days in Malaysia together with the other bikes. There’s not much sense saying that the bike is much better if we ride two tenths faster and the others improve by half a second. It’s something we need to keep working on and then we are going to see in the first races of the year, even if we are not at the top, this doesn’t mean anything. The new bike takes time and luckily, we are going to have five days and we think it is just enough. But if it isn’t, no panic. We are going to have more days to improve the bike. Having the four riders from the factory at full performance, it means the bike is going to be better sooner.”
Understandably, with the title already sewn up, the competition took a back seat for the most part. However, Ducati ended the year on a high as a 1-2-3 for Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team), Jorge Martin (Pramac Racing) and Jack Miller (Ducati Lenovo Team) saw Ducati Lenovo Team claim the Teams’ title, and Martin Rookie of the Year.
The BMW R 18 M is one of two R 18 customs unveiled at the Motor Bike Expo in Verona, Italy.
Since introducing its Big Boxer-powered R 18 in 2020, BMW has invited some of the world’s best customizers to put their own spin on Germany’s heavyweight cruiser. At the Motor Bike Expo in Verona, Italy, BMW unveiled the R 18 M and R 18 Aurora customs.
The latest customs are the result of the collaboration between BMW Motorrad Italy and its dealer network. The R 18 M was developed by Italian magazine LowRide and created by American Dreams. Commissioned by BMW Motorrad Roma, the R 18 Aurora was created by Garage 221.
M is the letter that distinguishes the sport versions of BMW four-wheeled models, and today it also includes motorcycles like the M 1000 RR. The source of inspiration for the BMW R 18 M project by the editorial staff of LowRide is the following: the idea is to give the BMW cruiser a sportier, more streamlined look, avoiding exaggerations while showing respect the R 18’s retro lines.
“Stability, long wheelbase, and readiness of the 1,800cc Big Boxer instigate lightning starts and deserve, in our opinion, a sporty and retro look,” said Giuseppe Roncen, director of LowRide. “In the R 18 M design, we find suggestions from BMW Motorrad tradition and cues from the four-wheelers: M stands for Motorsport.”
The work has focused on chassis, suspension set-up, bodywork, and accessories, leaving mechanics and electronics unchanged as the natural strengths of the R 18. Lightened and with a different riding position, the BMW R 18 M promises to be even more fun to ride.
“We remain curious to experience its potential,” continued Roncen. “Significantly lightened, the bike should also be easy to handle due to its riding position, which is more compact and forward loaded, without exaggeration.”
The R 18 M project was made possible by BMW Italia and was born in the wake of the emotions that this bike can give: a fun cruiser, powerful and lively, with a big heart and an infinite torque. LowRide has involved some of the best Italian craftsmen and companies specialized in the sector.
The realization of the sketches was entrusted to designer Oberdan Bezzi, already a partner of LowRide in the past. He has managed to make it an exciting power cruiser without upsetting the essence of the BMW R 18. American Dreams handled the assembly and coordinated the work. Elaboratorio, specializing in prototyping and modeling, created the headlight shroud, lower cowl, and tailsection.
Carbon Italy handled the head covers, intake ducts, and other carbon fiber details. The short exhaust pipe, designed to make the line more compact and allow greater lean angles, bears the signature of ER Exhaust Revolution. L.R. Leather covered the saddle in leather, while the paintwork was entrusted to Dox Art Factory. Rizoma provided mirrors, grips, and universal indicators for the accessories.
The idea and desire of Garage 221 to create a custom bike based on the BMW R 18 found its origins a while ago, at the presentation of the bike at EICMA 2019. The lines of the new BMW cruiser, innovative and at the same time faithfully traditional, deserved “complementary elements and an even more Heritage spirit, starting from the soft lines of the tank to the characteristic shapes of the boxer,” said Pier Francesco Marchio of Garage 221.
BMW R 18 Aurora
The project initially focused on the study of the different sections of the bike, keeping in mind the need to connect the new elements in a unique harmony of lines, taking inspiration from the cruisers of the 1970s, which have always impressed Pier Francesco “for their impressive aesthetic fluidity.” Distinctive elements of the BMW R 18 Aurora are the wraparound fenders and the batwing fairing.
Modifications that led to the R 18 Aurora stem from Garage 221’s deep knowledge of BMW Motorrad history. The saddle was borrowed in its entirety from a 2005 BMW R 1200 C. The fairing supports are adapted from parts on a 1982 BMW R 100 and a 1991 BMW K 75. Even for the color of the body, a 1983 BMW R 100 RT was used as a reference, customizing the graphics in its shades and intensity. The front and rear fender supports, saddle supports, and license plate holder arms are entirely handmade.
The exhaust pipes were made in collaboration with Leo Vince, taking particular care of the sound, to make it even more full-bodied and captivating. Their design has been specifically studied to give a very personal and muscular line to the central part of the R 18.
The R 18 Aurora’s oil cooler grille gives a classy natural touch, inspired by the grille of BMW’s cars from the 1960s. “It was a lot of hard work,” said Pier Francesco, “but the result is truly stunning. The textured paintwork of the cylinder head covers, the injection housings, the central crankcase and our oil cooler grille make everything look homogeneous, creating a unique effect with the cylinder block and the bevel gear.”
Fabio Di Giannantonio: “2022 is just around the corner. It will be my first season in MotoGP and it will be so cool! I will have a lot to learn, my expectation is to grow race by race and who knows, we’ll may be able to collect even some great achievements. In a bit we’ll be back on track for the test, we’re going in Malaysia and Indonesia is following. I can’t wait to ride again this beautiful beast. The winter break is always too long, I’m counting the days, the hours! And the bike is spectacular, maybe the most beautiful I’ve ever ride, the most beautiful I’ve ever seen. With that unique main color it looks like a bike of the 70’s, retrò style, on track we’ll be recognizable for sure. Particular, original, BEAUTIFUL. A unique emotion”.
Honda has announced its returning motorcycles for 2022, which includes four versions of the Africa Twin adventure bike.
We’ve seen (and tested) two 2022 Hondas already, both in the miniMOTO family: the updated Grom and the all-new Navi, an affordable, user-friendly motorcycle for commuters and new riders. The 2022 Honda lineup includes another miniMOTO, the Super Cub C125, as well as Africa Twin, Gold Wing, Rebel, Fury, CBR, and NC750X models.
2022 Honda Super Cub C125
Honda’s Super Cub is a living legend. Introduced in 1958, more than 100 million have been built, making it the most produced motor vehicle in history. It’s also the inspiration for the wildly successful “You meet the nicest people on a Honda” advertising campaign.
2022 Honda Super Cub C125
For 2022, the Super Cub’s new SOHC, 124cc, single-cylinder engine benefits from a longer stroke, which delivers more useable power while also improving fuel economy. Honda also managed to shave off 2 pounds, reducing curb weight to just 238 pounds. Offered in a new Matte Gray Metallic colorway, the 2022 Super Cub starts at just $3,799.
2022 Honda Africa Twin
Since its 2016 reintroduction, the legendary Africa Twin proven itself to be a highly capable adventure bike both on- and off-road, and the platform has grown to include four models. For 2022, the sporting- and off-road performance-oriented standard version now comes with the same rear carrier as its more distance riding-oriented Adventure Sports ES sibling. Meanwhile, that version gets a shorter windscreen for improved visibility.
2022 Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES
Both Africa Twin versions are compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and both are available with either a manual gearbox or Honda’s advanced automatic Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), which has a program change for 2022, delivering smoother shifting in the lower gears.
2022 Honda Africa Twin
2022 Honda Africa Twin
The standard Africa Twin comes in Grand Prix Red, with an MSRP of $14,499 for the manual transmission version and $15,299 for the DCT version. The Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES comes in Pearl White, and MSRP is $17,299 for the manual and $18,099 for the DCT.
2022 Honda Gold Wing
Now in its sixth generation, Honda’s flagship Gold Wing caters to long-distance tourers with an ultra-smooth opposed six-cylinder engine, spacious cockpit, and ample storage capacity. Despite it’s 1,833cc mill and 804-pound running weight, it delivers sporty performance and handling that belies its size. The Gold Wing delivers style and luxury for multi-day road trips with comfortable seating options, cutting-edge rider aids, and a top-of-the-line infotainment system.
2022 Honda Gold Wing DCT
Last year, Honda updated the Gold Wing Tour with a larger trunk and more comfortable passenger accommodations, and all Gold Wing models got updated audio and Android Auto integration in addition to Apple Car Play.
2022 Honda Gold Wing Tour Airbag DCT
In 2022, the Gold Wing DCT trim comes in Nightshade Blue and retails for $25,300. At $28,500, the trunk-equipped Gold Wing Tour now sports Ultra Blue Metallic and Metallic Black colorways. The Gold Wing Tour DCT offers the same paint schemes but with an MSRP of $29,500 and the 2022 Gold Wing Tour Airbag DCT rounds out the range with a $32,800 sticker price and Ultra Blue Metallic livery.
2022 Honda NC750X
For commuters covering longer distances, the Honda NC750X has become one of the top picks in the adventure category. The fuel-sipping 745cc parallel-Twin isn’t all business though. Its low to midrange torque makes it a great option for backroad weekend excursions as well.
2022 Honda NC750X
The standard NC750X remains affordable in 2022 with a $8,699 sticker price. The Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) trim comes in close behind at $9,299. Honda’s Selectable Torque Control is available in both trims, reassuring the rider that the NC750X is just as practical as it is versatile.
2022 Honda Rebel 1100
Introduced last year, the Rebel 1100 returns for 2022. Don’t let its cruiser stance fool you. With a liquid-cooled, 1,084cc parallel-Twin derived from the Africa Twin, a solid chassis, and electronic rider aids, it delivers both style and performance.
2022 Honda Rebel 1100 ABS
The Metallic Black and Bordeaux Red Metallic paint options carry over from 2021, but a stunning new Pearl Stallion Brown makes the Rebel stand out from the crowd. Honda offers the 2022 Rebel 1100 at $9,399 while the DCT version comes in at $9,999. Regardless of the trim, both Rebel 1100 models include ABS as standard.
2022 HondaRebel 300/500
Also returning for 2022 are two of the industry’s most popular entry-level cruisers, Honda’s Rebel 300 and Rebel 500. They combine user-friendliness with stylish, minimalist design, including a peanut fuel tank, LED lighting, and blacked-out finishes.
2022 Honda Rebel 300
2022 Honda Rebel 500 ABS SE
The Honda Rebel 300 is available in Matte Gray Metallic and Pearl Blue, with an MSRP of $4,699, or $4,999 with ABS. The Honda Rebel 500 is available in Matte Gray Metallic and Matte Pearl White, with an MSRP of $6,399, or $6,699 with ABS. The Honda Rebel 500 ABS SE ($6,899) comes in a new Matte Silver and has select accessories preinstalled.
2022 Honda Fury
The Rebel may bring cruiser performance and aesthetics into the 21st century, but the 2022 Honda Fury sticks to its chopper roots. With a long and lean stance, aggressive styling, and 1,312cc V-Twin, the factory-direct custom lives up to its name.
2022 Honda Fury
However, with dual counter-balancers, fuel injection, and shaft drive, the Fury delivers a smooth ride. In Pearl Yellow paint, the 2022 Fury is sure to turn heads, and at $11,499, it’s priced to take on all competitors.
2022 Honda CBR600RR
Honda’s CBR600RR is back in 2022, offering the utmost supersport performance for spirited road riders and track day enthusiasts. With eight World Supersport titles under its belt, the CBR600RR retains its championship pedigree in 2022 with full Showa suspension and a high-revving inline-four engine.
2022 Honda CBR600RR
Resplendent in Grand Prix Red, the base 2022 Honda CBR600RR has an MSRP of $11,999 and the ABS-equipped model goes for $12,999.
2022 Honda CBR1000RR
Last year Honda introduced the exclusive, track-focused CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, a premium, World Superbike-caliber machine that cost $28,500.
2022 Honda CBR1000RR
For those seeking liter-class performance on a more affordable scale, Honda’s legendary CBR1000RR is available for 2022 in Grand Prix Red for $16,499, or $16,799 with ABS.
I’ve done the course twice and each time I’ve learnt new skills, so even if you’ve done it before, it’s worth going back again for a refresher.
MotorbikeWriter goes downhill fast at a BMW GS course
The course is great for those who intend to take part in the GS Safaris.
The training program teaches the following disciplines:
Slow-speed maneuvering and control
Correct body position/balance
Throttle and clutch control
Cornering
Braking
Ascending and descending hills safely with confidence
Riding over/around obstacles.
The two-day course is suitable for novices through to more advanced riders. However, experienced riders who have passed the Level 1 program may like to promote themselves to the Level 2 course.
BMW’s head coaches are Motorcycling Australia Level 2 Accredited and BMW International Instructor Academy Certified.
Motorcycle Riders Association of Australia would like 1000 riders do the survey.
“They don’t have to be Tasmanians,” spokesman Damien Codognotto says. “They just have to have visited Hobart at some stage.”
There have so far been about 400 responses to the survey, most of whom (70%) aged 51 to 70 and 84.5% are male.
Preliminary results show two out of three respondents are Tasmanians and one in five are Victorians, followed by Queensland with 7% and NSW and SA 2.7%.
About 19% visited Hobart less than once a year, with 29% on holidays and 17.5% visiting for entertainment.
So motorcycle tourism is an obvious drawcard to the city with 90% bringing their own bike, 5% hiring a bike and the others buying a bike in the city.
That is why the MRAA is seeking more interstate respondents.
A whopping 86.9% say there is not enough on-street motorcycle and scooter parking in Hobart and 77.8% say there isn’t enough off-street parking.
Only one in five uses the Hobart City Council’s website map to find bike parking and half of respondents didn’t even know it existed.
More than 90% have also called for more secure bike parking at the airport.
