Category Archives: Motorcycle News

Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade | $17,999 Ride Away til March 31

Honda special ride away pricing until March 31, 2019

 CBR1000RR Fireblade $17,999
CBR600RR $13,999*


Honda have rolled out some great ride-away deals on their supersport machines, with special pricing available until March 31 2019, on both the 17YM CBR1000RR Fireblade, as well as its smaller sibling, the CBR600RR.

Deals available on Honda's CBR1000RR Fireblade
Deals available on Honda’s CBR1000RR Fireblade until March 31, 2019

Honda’s flagship race machine, the CBR1000RR Fireblade, is available at $17,999 Ride Away*, and combines power, handling and ride quality, alongside Honda’s renowned build quality.

The power to weight ratio is the best ever in CBR Fireblade history with a 14% improvement thanks to a weight reduction of 15kg and a 10 horsepower increase.

YM CBRRR Fireblade
Honda’s CBR1000RR Fireblade offers the most advanced iteration of the model yet

Equipped with a new electronic control system offering Honda Selectable Torque Control, Selectable Engine Brake, Riding Mode Select System and Power Selector and full Showa suspension, the CBR1000RR is better than ever.

See the full launch report of the new generation Fireblade here:
2017 Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade Review (link)


Honda CBR600RR from $13,999 R/A*

Honda’s CBR600RR is also available for $13,999* Ride Away and offers racetrack performance with ideal capabilities to be enjoyed on twisty roads or city streets by riders of all experience levels.

Honda CBRRR Overseas
Honda’s CBR600RR $13,999 Ride Away until March 31, 2019

The CBR600RR features adjustable Showa Big Piston Fork (BPF) front suspension and Unit Pro-Link rear suspension as well as aerodynamic bodywork for optimum wind deflection to enhance rider comfort.

Powering the CBR600RR is the compact liquid cooled 599cc, DOHC 16-Valve inline four-cylinder power plant, with a centrally located ram-air intake system which delivers strong midrange power and good throttle response in the high-rpm range.

2017 Honda CBR600RR
Honda CBR600RR

The CBR600RR has HESD (Honda Electronic Steering Damper) with optimal damping force constantly maintained by the ECU, allowing for an ultimately smooth ride.

Make the most of these terrific deals and visit your nearest Honda Dealer, ring 1 300 1 HONDA or go to www.hondamotorcycles.com.au.

2017 Honda CBR600RR
Honda CBR600RR

The Fine Print

*Ride away offer available on the CBR1000RR (17YM) and on the CBR600RR. Price includes GST. Available between 1 January and 31 March 2019. Only at participating Honda Dealers. Overseas models shown.

Source: MCNews.com.au

Ducati Partners With Audi and Ford To Debut Car-To-Bike Communication Technology At CES

The future of safety between motorcycles, cars, pedestrians, and even the very roads we occupy was displayed in a joint venture between Ducati, Audi, Ford, and Qualcomm at CES 2019, in Las Vegas. 

Begin press release:


Ducati continues its safety-focused research by taking part – together with Audi and Ford – in the first US demonstration of a communication system that interlinks vehicles, street infrastructure and pedestrians.

This test follows the one completed in Germany last July (here the press release). The latter saw the ConVeX (Connected Vehicle to Everything) project – a key part of Ducati’s “Safety Road Map 2025” strategy which aims to develop new safety systems and technologies – showcased in Europe for the very first time. The initial stages of this strategy will see ABS Cornering extended to the entire Ducati range and the market launch, in 2020, of a bike with front and rear radar.

Ducati, Audi AG (NASDAQ: AUDVF), Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F), and Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., a subsidiary of Qualcomm Incorporated (NASDAQ: QCOM), announced the companies’ continued joint efforts to help accelerate commercial deployment for C-V2X direct communication technology for roadside safety, traffic efficiency and automated driving. As a part of the Consumer Electronic Show® 2019 (CES 2019), a Ducati Multistrada 1260 as well as Audi and Ford vehicles, demonstrate driving situations utilizing C-V2X direct communications. All vehicles were equipped with C-V2X technology utilizing the Qualcomm® 9150 C-V2X chipset to demonstrate a cooperative intersection use case, exhibiting how C-V2X can be used between vehicles to negotiate the right of way in entering a four-way, non-signalized intersection where intention sharing and non-line-of-sight (NLOS) conditions make the use of a wireless sensor such as C-V2X ideal.

The companies also exhibited additional Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V), Vehicle-to-Pedestrian (V2P) and Vehicle-to-Infrastructure (V2I) safety scenarios, demonstrating the maturity and potential of C-V2X technology. The V2V use case featured the Intersection Movement Assist (IMA) scenario, which is a key countermeasure to address angle collisions at intersections, while the V2P scenario exhibited how C-V2X can be used to protect vulnerable road users, including pedestrians and bicyclists. The V2I use case featured the Work Zone Warning scenario, which is designed to provide drivers advanced warning of road construction ahead allowing them to maneuver in a safe manner.

This week’s Las Vegas demonstrations follow the successful showings of C-V2X trial validations and interoperability conducted throughout 2018 in Europe, Japan, Australia, China and the United States, as well as the first live C-V2X interoperability demonstration between a motorcycle, vehicles and roadside infrastructure, which was hosted by several leading automotive and technology companies, including Ducati and Qualcomm Technologies.

Ducati, Audi, and Ford are amongst several global automakers who have closely evaluated C-V2X technology for its reliability, high-performance capabilities and readiness through rigorous testing. Currently, C-V2X is the only V2X alternative that provides a clear evolution path to 5G, in a backward compatible manner, and is designed to deliver reliable and consistent performance in realistic driving scenarios. While complementing other Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) sensors, such as radar, lidar, and camera systems, C-V2X direct communications supports an ever-expanding set of safety use cases, as well as enhanced situational awareness by detecting and directly exchanging vital information. Additionally, C-V2X is designed with a focus on security, benefitting from established security transport layers and application protocols defined by the automotive standards communities, including ISO, ETSI and IEEE 1609. Because C-V2X can be easily integrated into all wireless modems to offer direct and network communications, its implementation is cost-effective, which is especially important as the automotive industry continues to move towards adding wireless connectivity in all vehicles.

“This demonstration is showing use cases in which advanced technologies can significantly improve the safety of motorcycle users,” said Pierluigi Zampieri, Vehicle Innovation Manager at Ducati Motor Holding. “C-V2X communication is one of the key projects of the Ducati 2025 safety road map. There’s no better place than CES to talk about our roadmap towards the future”.

“Audi has demonstrated a novel C-V2X use case together with Ford, Ducati and Qualcomm Technologies. The four-way stop use case provides a glimpse of how cooperative driving will be possible with C-V2X in the future. Besides additional safety, C-V2X is designed to also improve comfort and efficiency, which can be applied to both current and future autonomous driving,” said Anupam Malhotra, Director, Connected Vehicles & Data at Audi of America, Inc. “Audi has demonstrated commercial viability of cellular-based V2X services through the Audi Traffic Light Information service and plays a leading role within the 5GAA to develop this technology further”.

“Imagine a person suddenly steps into the street from out of view and your vehicle stops because it was alerted by that person’s smartphone. This is just one example of how C-V2X can connect smart vehicles to a smart world,” said Don Butler, executive director, Ford Connected Vehicle Platform and Product. “We invite other automakers, governments and tech companies to join the significant momentum building for a C-V2X ecosystem”.

“As part of Qualcomm Technologies’ ongoing work with Ford, Audi and Ducati, we are excited to continue strengthening our mutual efforts towards accelerating C-V2X’s commercial deployment. This new chapter in our longstanding relationships outlines our collective goal to realize the full potential of C-V2X as a global solution for next-generation vehicle connectivity, safety and autonomy,” said Nakul Duggal, senior vice president of product management, Qualcomm Technologies. “We look forward to showcasing the latest results of this relationship as several Ford, Audi and Ducati vehicles demonstrate C-V2X interoperability in real-world driving situations”.

The demonstration by Ducati, Audi, Ford, and Qualcomm Technologies will be conducted live in Las Vegas by appointment and will also be livestreamed at Qualcomm Technologies’ automotive booth in the North Hall (booth #5609), and in the Central Hall (booth #TBD) throughout the show. The demonstration will also be shown in the Audi and Ford booths.



The post Ducati Partners With Audi and Ford To Debut Car-To-Bike Communication Technology At CES appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

AMA announces 2019 schedule for KTM AMA National Adventure Riding Series

AMA National Adventure Riding Series gives AMA members a chance to go test out there skills on their big adventure machines.

Begin Press Release: 


American Motorcyclist Association announces 2019 schedule for KTM AMA National Adventure Riding Series

Nationwide series features 14 opportunities to get out and ride

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association has released the schedule for the 2019 KTM AMA National Adventure Riding Series, presented by Kenda Tires, which features 14 events in 10 states organized by AMA-chartered clubs and promoters.

Adventure riding is one of the fastest growing classes of motorcycling. Adventure bikes are comfortable enough to conquer hundreds of miles of interstate without a whimper and are rugged enough to climb the highest mountain passes. Since 2007, the KTM AMA National Adventure Riding Series has provided opportunities for adventure motorcyclists to enjoy some of the best routes, roads and two-track trail in the nation.

KTM returns as a series sponsor for the third consecutive year. The company boasts a lineup of well-equipped adventure bikes that are great options to ride in the series’ events.

“The 2017 season was a really good year for KTM sponsoring the AMA National Adventure Riding Series, and 2018 turned out even better,” KTM Ride Orange Manager Mark Hyde said. “The series is home to many great adventure rides across America. Each year, we have been able to attend more events, meet more adventure riders and show off the capability and style of KTM’s adventure models.”

AMA Recreational Riding Manager Heather Wilson said the events are intended for adventure riders of all skill levels and are a great way for new adventure riders to learn more about the discipline.

“These events are so popular, many fill up far in advance,” Wilson said. “The event organizers work hard to ensure the riding is memorable and that riders have a great group-riding experience.”

As part of its sponsorship, KTM will award one series participant an all-expenses-paid trip to the 2020 KTM Adventure Rider Rally.

Supporting series sponsors include AMA Member Benefit Partner ADVmoto. Event participants will be entered to win products from sponsors Helite Moto, Seat Concepts and IMS Products.

2019 KTM AMA National Adventure Riding Series schedule

April 27-28: Perry Mountain Tower Run Adventure Rally
Perry Mountain Motorcycle Club — Stanton, Ala.

May 4-5: Yosemite Adventure Tour
Family Off-Road Adventures — Buck Meadows, Calif.

May 16-19: PA Wilds 1000
Pine Barrens Adventures — Port Matilda, Pa.

June 1-2: Durty Dabbers
Durty Dabbers Motorcycle Club — Lock Haven, Pa.

June 8-9: Ride for Research
Wisconsin Dual Sport Riders — Wabeno, Wis.

June 8-9: Ozark 200
Arkansas Dirt Riders, Inc. — New Blaine, Ark.

June 22-23: Big Bear Run
Big Bear Trail Riders — Big Bear, Calif.

August TBD: Dirt Daze Adventure Rally
Dirt Daze — TBD, Vt.

September 7-8: Blue Ridge Adventure Ride
Appalachian Trail Riders — Pineola, N.C.

September 14-15: Show Me 500 National Adventure Ride
Midwest Trail Riders Association — Bixby, Mo.

September 28-29: Big Woods 200
Wisconsin Dual Sport Riders — Wabeno, Wis.

September 28-29: Buffaloe 500 National Adventure Ride
Stoney Lonesome Motorcycle Club — Columbus, Ind.

October 12-13: Renfro Valley Adventure Ride
Appalachian Trail Riders — Mount Vernon, Ky.

November 29-30: L.A. — Barstow to Vegas
District 37 Dual Sport — Palmdale, Calif.

The series schedule and detailed information about the events can be found at www.americanmotorcyclist.com/Riding/Adventure-Riding. Participants must have a current AMA membership.

Be sure to follow the series’ official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AMAAdventureRiding. Post your photos from the events on social media using #AMAadv.

The post AMA announces 2019 schedule for KTM AMA National Adventure Riding Series appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

Jeff Ward Is Going to Race American Flat Track TTs

Wait, how old is Jeff Ward? He was already a grizzled veteran when he won his second AMA Supermoto championship in 2006 – which is the same year he was inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America. He’d already been inducted into the Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 1999, after winning several thousand AMA Moto- and Supercross titles. If Wiki has it right, Jeff Ward is 57 years old. 


AFT Press Release:

Seven-time National MX Champ Jeff Ward to race American Flat Track TTs in 2019

Hall of Famer to ride select events – including the DAYTONA TT – on KTM machinery in AFT Singles with support from Moto Anatomy, KTM, Troy Lee Designs, Blackmore Ranch, The W Training Facility, Malcolm Smith Motorsports and Monster Energy

NEWPORT BEACH, CA (Jan. 8, 2019) – Jeff Ward, a seven-time AMA Motocross champion, AMA Supermoto champion, IndyCar and NASCAR racer, Motorcycle Hall of Famer and one of the most versatile and successful competitors in the world of motorsports, will return to the racetrack to compete in American Flat Track events in 2019.

Ward will compete in the AFT Singles division at all five TT races – and maybe even a Short Track or two – aboard KTM 450 SX-F machinery with support from fellow racer and Moto Anatomy riding-school owner Johnny Lewis, Blackmore Ranch, KTM, Troy Lee Designs, Malcolm Smith Motorcycles, The W Training Facility and Monster Energy.

“Most folks probably don’t know this,” Ward said, “but I started racing flat tracks and TTs as a youngster, and then gradually moved to motocross, so I’ve got some pretty deep flat track roots. I’ve been riding lately at the Blackmore Ranch flat track facility in Southern California, and really enjoying it. I also watched all the AFT races on NBCSN in 2018, and I got to thinking, ‘Let’s try this…’ – and here we are!

“The plan,” continued Ward, “is to do the five TT events, and maybe catch a Short Track or two. I’ll be riding KTM 450s, with set-up, logistical and training help from Johnny Lewis. I’ll ride one of Johnny’s KTMs at Daytona in March, and one of my KTMs in Arizona in April, as it’s close to my So Cal base. After that we’ll figure out logistics for the rest of the rounds.

“I’m working on finalizing sponsors now,” Ward added, “and we definitely have opportunities for companies to come aboard. We are going to have a lot of fun with this and stir things up a bit. I think we’ll be in contention for wins, too. I’m 57, but I’m still pretty fast on a motorcycle and in great shape thanks to all the motocross riding and mountain bike racing I’ve been doing. It will be a challenge, for sure, but I’m committed to this and plenty serious about the season.”

Ward, who’s also a member of the Motorsports Hall of Fame, will have serious logistical and bike set-up support from Lewis, a top-level flat tracker in his own right.

“Jeff’s a master,” said Lewis, “and he’ll adapt quickly. He’s just so intuitive and has such a good feel for the motorcycle, what it needs, and how to extract maximum performance from it. I’m always amazed how good he is when I watch him. We’ll be working together and testing before the Daytona round on March 14, and afterward, too, so he’ll be ready. When you combine his world-class natural talent with the fact that he still wants to learn and pays attention to the smaller things I can help him with, he’s going to be tough to beat. He’s also going to be involved in my Moto Anatomy schools whenever possible, so I’m excited about our collaboration. We’re going to have some fun!”

Look for continued coverage of the Ward/Lewis/KTM 2019 effort, including in-depth interviews and features, in the coming weeks on the American Flat Track website (Americanflattrack.com). For more information and sponsorship opportunities, please click below:

Jeff Ward Racing

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeffward3x

Instagram: www.instagram.com/jeffward3x

Email: [email protected]

Johnny Lewis/Moto Anatomy 

Web: www.moto-anatomy.com 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/motoanatomy_ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/motoanatomyofficial/

Email: johnny@moto-anatomy.com 

Next Up for AFT:

American Flat Track will kick off its 2019 season with its bar-banging DAYTONA TT in appropriate fashion – during the wild Bike Week festivities in Daytona Beach. The 2019 DAYTONA TT happens Thursday, March 14 once again under the lights of the iconic Daytona International Speedway. Tickets start at just $35 and are available now at https://tickets.americanflattrack.com

How to Watch:

NBCSN and FansChoice.tv are the official homes for coverage of American Flat Track. For the 2019 season, NBCSN’s coverage of AFT moves to highly-coveted, weekend afternoon programming slots within two weeks of each event. The complete schedule for AFT on NBCSN can be viewed at http://www.americanflattrack.com/events-nbcsn/. FansChoice.tv remains a cornerstone of AFT’s digital strategy, providing live streaming coverage of every event on AFT’s live page while previous events and exclusive features are available on AFT’s VOD page.

The post Jeff Ward Is Going to Race American Flat Track TTs appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

Dakar 2019: Just Another Day in the Dunes

WestX1000 provides us with stage one updates from Dakar 2019.

Begin Press Release: 


Just Another Day in the Dunes

A Promising Stage One at the Dakar Rally Gives the United States Hope

Even the best racers and biggest trucks could be swallowed whole by the mountains of sand making up the Ica region surrounding Pisco.

dakar 2019

In a battle between man, machine and Mother Nature, it seemed that yesterday man and his machine have prevailed – this time around. Special Stage One was a relatively short and fast-paced race. The route, 70-percent of which were dunes, sifted out the top competitors who, as it turns out, includes the Americans.

“Although it was a short stage today, it was a very large learning curve for me. The computer equipment on the bike is tricky to pick up right away. Because I didn’t know how to work it, I made some errors, which made me a little frustrated with my results. But ultimately, I was happy with how I was able to move up in the overall position from my starting point. I had to remind myself that I’m in Peru living my dream and not to let anything break my spirit.” – Skyler Howes #73, Garrett Off-Road Racing team

Ricky Brabec (#15) broke into the top three, nabbing the third seat in bikes leaving everyone but Joan Barreda (#5) and Pablo Quintanilla (#6) in his dust. Andrew Short (#29) made great time landing himself at 13 in the ranks. And Garrett Poucher (#71), Skyler Howes (#73) and Nathan Rafferty (#104) fought hard for better starting positions come Second Stage Two, which took off a little later this morning. A relief for riders needing to catch up on some Zzz’s. Poucher and Skyler will begin at the 45th and 46th positions while Rafferty will set off at 97th.

Household name, Robby Gordon, experienced some minor setbacks which had forced him to miss his originally scheduled scrutineering date. But it all worked out in the end, as Gordon and teammate Kellon Walch (#316) drove formidably, finishing 21st in the car rankings. Driver Blade Hildebrand, his co-pilot Bill Conger (#367) and teammates Cole Potts and Max Eddy (#346) also did well for themselves leaving the start line this morning 34th and 43rd in line. Last of the Americans, but certainly not least, Casey Currie (#343), a friend and protégé’ of Robby Gordon’s, promised to make a name for himself at Dakar, in the new Side-by-Side (SxS) class. With a rise in popularity, we’re seeing these leisure utility vehicles pop up in more and more off-road events. And Currie plans to battle his way to the podium in his, earning 6th in class by the time he reached the end of his road book.

Altogether, the first special stage seemed to go off without a hitch. The day produced only a single recorded withdrawal and one non-critical medical situation when a car barrel rolled, so there’s still a lot of folks with skin in the game. And racers aren’t giving in yet! Some delays at the beginning could be expected, but just about everyone reached the proverbial checkered flag unscathed. Tuesday January 8th will offer challengers less dunes but many more kilometers with over 200 for the liaison to San Juan de Marcona in addition to the special stage. Is this where we’ll see competitors begin do drop off, as they so famously do at Dakar? Will the lack of sand be a help or a hindrance? Will the American’s keep up their pace? There’s only one way to find out…

Key points:

Ø Rankings of Americans

BIKE

3. Ricky Brabec #15 – 01h 00’ 28” Bike

13. Andrew Short #29 – 01h 04’ 29” Bike

45. Garrett Poucher #71 – 01h 16’ 58” Bike

46. Skyler Howes #73 – 01h 17’ 04” Bike

97. Nathan Rafferty #104 – 01h 38’ 39” Bike

CAR

21. Robby Gordon, Kellon Walch #316 – 01h 10’ 49”

34. Blade Hildebrand, Bill Conger #367 – 01h 16’ 11”

43. Cole Potts, Max Eddy #346 – 01h 22’ 03”

SIDE-BY-SIDE

6. Casey Currie #343 – 01h 16’ 08”

Ø Top Three Motorcycles

1. Joan Barreda #5 – 57’36”

2. Pablo Quintanilla #6 – 58’10”

3. Ricky Brabec #15 – 01h 00’ 28”

Ø Sara Garcia #98 fell into 111th place overall but shouldn’t be deterred. There’s so much more Dakar left!

Ø 17 women are racing in the 2019 Dakar Rally.

The post Dakar 2019: Just Another Day in the Dunes appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

Dakar 2019: The Green Flag Waves in Peru

Our friends from WestX1000 are on the ground in Peru for Dakar 2019. 

Begin Press Release: 


The Green Flag Waves in Peru

With the Dakar Rally Opening Its 41st Year to a Roaring Crowd 

Monday, January 7th marked the beginning of the 2019 iteration of the world’s most infamous off-road race: the Dakar Rally. But the party really started the previous day at the beach… 
“What can I say but ‘wow!’ Crossing the Dakar podium for the first time was an incredible experience. The energy from the fans was off the charts. This has been something I have dreamed of doing since I was a little kid, and it has become a reality.” – Garrett Poucher #71, Garrett Off-Road Racing, USA
Sunday is a time for family in Lima, which was evident as hordes of adults, children and the elderly alike packed themselves against barricades, outside the fences or lining the tall cliffs which overlook Dakar Village just to catch a glimpse of their favorite Motorsports heroes. The word floating around most of the day was “mayhem.” But as always, the ASO organization kept their cool and sent the 541 challengers (334 vehicles) up and over the bayside podium in swift fashion. Each met by excited cheers which would burst out as each team approached and exited the stage, warming the spotlight for the next.
“Up until this point the process has been pretty easy-going, but today going up and over the podium, the magnitude of this event really set in. The amount of people there to watch the ceremony was unreal, and we were packed right in there with them getting snagged for selfies left and right.
Going up over the podium was brief but still a huge moment for me, putting that check mark next to my #1 dream and goal in life.” – Skyler Howes #73, Garrett Off-Road Racing, USA
The following day was an early one, as motorbikes departed Peru’s capital at about half-past 5a.m. local time for the event’s first Special Stage – enroute to the Pisco bivouac. What obstacles could riders and drivers face? Where will we find the 12 Americans (Ricky Brabec #15, Andrew Short #29, Garrett Poucher #71, Skyler Howes #73, Nathan Rafferty #104 on bikes; Robby Gordon and Kellon Walch #316, Cole Potts and Max Eddy #346, Blade Hildebrand and Bill Conger #367 in cars; and Casey Currie #343 in a Side-by-Side) in the starting order for Special Stage Two? Until the final competitor reaches the end of his or her road book today, we’re yet to know. Stay tuned…
Key points:

Ø 541 competitors and 334 vehicles —137 motorbikes, 26 quads, 130 cars (including 30 SxS) and 41 trucks— were cleared to start the 41st edition of the Dakar at the end of the technical and administrative scrutineering.

Ø This year the roster of women racers continues to grow, including the rally’s first-ever female Malle Moto contestant, Sara Garcia #98 of Spain.

Ø Before the start of the race, the drivers, riders and crews will get a big send-off from the fans during the podium ceremony in Lima. The celebration will take place on Magdalena beach, where over 100,000 visitors flocked to enjoy a wide range of activities in the Feria Dakar over the last three days.

Ø The first round comes with a sand-packed 84 km course in the Pisco region.

The post Dakar 2019: The Green Flag Waves in Peru appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

Harley-Davidson Livewire likely to be around 44k AUD

Harley overnight dropped detailed specs and pricing on their first EV, the LiveWire Electric motorcycle which the company is touting as the most connected motorcycle experience ever.

Harley Davidson LiveWire
Harley-Davidson Livewire

The LiveWire motorcycle represents Harleys high performance entry into the musktopian electric future. The first of a new portfolio of motorcycles slated to deliver an “all new motorcycle experience”.

When the LiveWire debuts in showrooms there’s no doubt it’ll be the coolest looking machine in the Harley line up. That old school roots style supercharger mock-up hanging out of its belly marries some hot-rod styling to what will most certainly be Harley’s hottest rod!

Harley Davidson LiveWire
Harley-Davidson Livewire

Harley are claiming a 0-100 km/h time of 3.5-seconds and during my brief taste of an early LiveWire prototype some years ago in Malaysia, I belive that the LiveWire will be the fastest machine Harley has ever produced for mainstream consumption.

With a claimed range of 177 kilometres the LiveWire should also prove practical enough to use as everyday transport for most consumers.

I expect there will also be a myriad of bolt on accessories to vajazzle that rather boring looking battery pack in its guts, which isn’t dripping in chrome and polished aluminium like a conventional Harley.

Harley Davidson LiveWire
Harley-Davidson Livewire

The Harley-Davidson LiveWire is set to hit showrooms in the US priced at $29,799. Given how current Australian pricing extrapolates to other comparably priced models in the current Harley range, our best guesstimate is that the LiveWire will be priced somewhere around $44,000 AUD. There is no official word from Harley Australia on that score, that number is only educated supposition on our part. ABS and Traction Control will be standard.

While American customers will be able to get their LiveWire shortly, Australian motorcyclists will have to wait until ‘Late 2020’ to get their hands on one. What are the bets that somebody can’t wait, and will import their own LiveWire in from America ahead of the Australian release…?

Harley Davidson LiveWire
Harley-Davidson Livewire

Some of the reason for the delay of the Australian launch could be the work required to successfully integrate and adpat Harley’s new Connect Service to Australia.

The LiveWire motorcycle is equipped with H-D Connect, which pairs motorcycle riders with their bikes through an LTE-enabled Telematics Control Unit coupled with connectivity and cloud services using the latest version of the Harley-Davidson App. This technology makes the LiveWire motorcycle the first North American mass-market cellular-connected electric motorcycle.

Harley Davidson LiveWire
Harley-Davidson Livewire

Information available through H-D Connect includes battery charge status and available range from any location where sufficient cellular signal is available. This allows the rider to remotely check the charge status including charge level and time to completion. Riders will be able to locate a charging station with ease thanks to an integrated location finder built into the H-D App.

H-D Connect indicates the location of the parked LiveWire motorcycle and alerts can be sent to the rider’s smartphone if the bike is tampered with or moved. GPS-enabled stolen-vehicle tracking provides peace of mind that the motorcycle’s location can be tracked. This feature will be available in America but it is unclear if Australian regulators will co-operate enough for this feature to be lawfully activated in our market.

Harley Davidson LiveWire
Harley-Davidson Livewire

Source: MCNews.com.au

Barreda takes early lead as Dakar gets underway in Peru

Dakar 2019 Stage One

Lima > Pisco 331 km | 84 km

The opening stage of the 41st Dakar Rally took competitors from the host city of Lima to Pisco, near the southern coast of Peru. Although short at just 84 kilometres, the day’s timed special still threw up a few challenges. Starting in reverse order, the top riders would have to wait until last to get their chance to enter the stage. Dust thrown up from the riders in front made overtaking difficult with the Peruvian heat also making conditions tough.

Honda’s Joan Barreda was quickest out of the blocks, obviously eager to make up for the disappointment of retiring while second in the rally last year, the 35-year-old Spaniard ended day one 1m34s ahead of Husqvarna’s Pablo Quintanilla

Joan Barreda – P1

“I’m very happy to start like this. Today was a short stage but where everyone went very fast. Without making mistakes I managed to push for the whole of the special. In the beginning it’s always a bit difficult to pick up the rhythm, but from kilometre 20 I started to improve and I was able to maintain a good rhythm during the whole stage with very good results. Now it’s time to think about the long stages where the way of preparing them changes. Tomorrow we will have to stay focused, since the pace will also be high and there is more chance of getting lost.”


Dakar 2019 Stage One Video


Pablo Quintanilla – P2

“I felt really good on the bike today. It wasn’t an easy stage. There were some sandy dunes, some dusty parts and some tricky navigation. I was pushing from the start and I felt confident all the way through the stage. It’s good to start this race with a second place and it gives me extra confidence for the rest of the rally. Today we had many waypoints to cross and many direction changes. It was good to get things started with the first stage. This year I am feeling very confident and I am enjoying the race a lot. The bike is running great and I am looking forward to the coming stages.”

Dakar Stage Pablo Quintanilla
Pablo Quintanilla

Ricky Brabec put his Honda in to third place on stage one, 2m52s behind teammate Barreda, and three-seconds ahead of leading Yamaha rider Adrien Van Beveren.

Ricky Brabec – P3

“First stage of this Dakar with some very good sensations. The stage was not very long, but there were many dunes and a lot of people. I have found the whole special went pretty well: there was a bit of fesh-fesh but I’m very happy to be here and am prepared to give it my best shot over the coming days.”

Dakar Stage Ricky Brabec
Ricky Brabec

Adrien Van Beveren – P4

“We got this tricky opening stage out of the way and I’m happy with my result for the day. Today we got a small taste of what lies ahead. The start of the Dakar is always tricky and there’s some extra pressure. Today I tried to control this pressure and avoid mistakes by any means. I felt good racing in the dunes and my Yamaha was working great. As the race goes on, I want to gradually improve my pace while also staying 100% focused on the tracks and my navigation. Tomorrow we have a long stage and I’m looking forward to going back out there in the dunes.”

Dakar Stage Adrien Van Beveren
Adrien Van Beveren

Keen to make up for his retirement from the 2018 event, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Sam Sunderland put in a strong performance on the opening day’s timed special to claim the fifth fastest time – just under three minutes down on the leader. Choosing to navigate his way through the stage rather than following existing tracks, the 2017 Dakar champion rode an intelligent day and is looking forward to tomorrow.

Sam Sunderland – P5

“I’m pleased with the opening stage, I felt good on the bike and happy with my pace. We had to be careful as the less experienced riders had opened the stage, I think some of the top guys took the risk and pushed the tracks, but I played it safe and navigated myself. It maybe cost me a little time but I think it was the best option. I caught a few riders ahead of me and lost some time in one of the rivers but I didn’t take any risks out there – we have a lot more days to come.”

Dakar Stage Sam Sunderland
Sam Sunderland

Putting in a brave performance, just 12-seconds down on team-mate Sunderland, Toby Price successfully completed the stage despite nursing the wrist he broke just weeks beforehand. Aware of the task ahead of him, Price plans to take the rally day-by-day.

Toby Price – P6

“The first day has gone well. My wrist is giving me some pain so I know the next nine days are going to be tough. But I can’t complain, I’m happy with sixth place today. Conditions out there were ok, you just have to be careful in the dunes that you don’t send it off one of the big drops – I can’t afford to risk anything like that so I need to be a little careful. The bike is running sweet, so thanks to Joe my mechanic for that. It’s going to be a long one tomorrow but I’ll give it my best.”

Dakar Stage Toby Price
Toby Price

Displaying the number one plate on his KTM 450 Rally, Matthias Walkner set off from Lima as the very last rider away. The Austrian made use of his experience to navigate the well-ridden route ahead of him to claim a solid seventh place.

Dakar Stage Bikes Walkner
Matthias Walkner – KTM 450 Rally

Matthias Walkner – P7

“Today was a good day, it feels great to start the rally and I felt better than I imagined after being a little ill over the last few days. The opening riders made a good job of the navigation and most of the top guys are all at a similar pace, but it was really fast out there today. As well as the sand dunes there were some rivers and rocky sections – with the wind and the riders in front there was a lot of dust and that made things even more tricky. The bike is working well and we’ll continue to work on settings as the rally goes on. Overall, it’s been an encouraging day.”

Dakar Stage Matthias Walkner
Matthias Walkner

Kevin Benavides hampered with the task of being the first of the elite riders to open the track, was ahead for much of the day but the Argentinean ended up with the eighth fastest time on the day, one place ahead of Chilean Jose Ignacio Cornejo, ninth some 5m22s adrift of Barreda. Paulo Gonçalves finished eleventh 6m41s behind leader Barreda.

Kevin Benavides – P8

“It was a very good first stage to warm up. I felt good, comfortable and I think I did a good job. We had to leave in reverse order and I left a little behind, with which I had some problems to overtake other motorcycles such as the area with a river where there was a lot of dust. Then, in the dunes, I was able to enjoy it a bit more. I felt very fast. I also found tracks that are not very reliable, but in general the navigation of this first stage was fairly easy.”

Dakar Stage Kevin Benavides
Kevin Benavides

Highly experienced Queenslander Rodney Faggotter took his time to settle in and wrapped up the opening stage with a 29th place result. Enjoying a good feeling aboard the latest version of the WR450F Rally, the Aussie looks to continue building on his speed during the coming stages.

Rodney Faggotter – P29

“Overall, I had a good day. I kept a steady pace from start to finish of the timed special and brought my bike home without any issues. My goal for the start of this race is to be consistent and remain inside the top 30 in the first stages. Today we raced about 70% of dunes and a long, dry and dusty river bed. Especially in that river bed you had to be extra careful to avoid mistakes. So far so good and now my eyes are set on tomorrow’s tough stage.”

Dakar Stage Rodney Faggotter
Rodney Faggotter

Tomorrow, Tuesday, will be one of the most unique stages of this Dakar 2019, as Joan Barreda will not be the first to open the race. That job will go to the cars who will start out before. When the bikes get their turn, they can look forward to a heavily churned up and rutted route after the passage of more than one hundred four-wheeled vehicles. After departing in Pisco, riders will head to the next bivouac in San Juan de Marcona after battling out the largest part of the stage in the dunes of Ica on a ride with a total of 554 kilometres including 342 special timed.


2019 Dakar Rally
Provisional Results Stage One

  1. BARREDA Joan SPA Monster Energy Honda Team 57’36
  2. QUINTANILLA Pablo CHI Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing +01’34
  3. BRABEC Ricky USA Monster Energy Honda Team +02’52
  4. VAN BEVEREN Adrien FRA Yamalube Yamaha Official Rally Team +02’55
  5. SUNDERLAND Sam GBR Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team +02’56
  6. PRICE Toby AUS Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team +03’08
  7. WALKNER Matthias AUT Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team+03’12
  8. BENAVIDES Kevin ARG Monster Energy Honda Team +04’00
  9. CORNEJO José Ignacio CHI Monster Energy Honda Team +05’22
  10. DE SOULTRAIT Xavier FRA Yamalube Yamaha Official Rally Team +05’54
  11. GONCALVES Paulo POR Monster Energy Honda Team +06’41
    29.FAGGOTTER Rodney AUS Yamaha +11’27

Source: MCNews.com.au

Harley-Davidson E-Bike concepts shown at CES

Alongside the further details announced on the LiveWire model overnight, Harley-Davidson also revealed two new concepts in its next generation of two-wheeled transportation at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas.

Harley Davidson Ebike Concepts
Harley-Davidson E-Bike concepts

These two concepts are a nod towards a new electrified chapter of Harley-Davidson’s story that will continue with innovative approaches to transportation and technology, wrapped up in evocative styling and design.

Harley Davidson Ebike Concepts
Harley-Davidson E-Bike concepts

While I don’t think either of these designs really pushes any boundaries visually, I do see this as a justified attempt for the brand to gradually align itself to the kimchi & kale generation.

Harley Davidson Ebike Concepts
Harley-Davidson E-Bike concepts

Kudos to Harley for becoming a little more environmentally and socially aware as they look towards a future of trying to win new young customers on to their iconic brand.

Harley Davidson Ebike Concepts
Harley-Davidson E-Bike concepts

Harley Davidson Ebike Concepts
Harley-Davidson E-Bike concepts

Source: MCNews.com.au

Shoei Announces The GT-Air II

One of our favorite helmets for long-distance touring, Shoei has updated the GT-Air with tons of new features. Read below to find out more.

Begin press release:


SHOEI Safety Helmet Corp is excited to announce the Spring ’19 arrival of the all-new GT-Air II to the North American marketplace. In dealerships March/April 2019.

With the innovative and highly-acclaimed GT-Air as a baseline, the all-new SHOEI GT-Air II was destined for greatness from the very start. Advancements in design, functionality and performance have further evolved SHOEI’s premiere full-face touring helmet, yielding even easier adaptation to the ever-changing conditions throughout your journeys. Featuring a lengthened internal sun shield for optimal sun-glare protection, all-new “first position” shield opening for advanced ventilation and defogging, enhanced aerodynamics and noise-reduction technology, and the ability to seamlessly integrate with the all-new SENA SRL2 Communication System, the GT-Air II is equipped to accommodate your every need.

Explore the entire GT-Air II COLLECTION and all of its innovative FEATURES on our website.





























































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