Category Archives: Motorcycle News

Championship battles tighten after Jerez twists!

New winners and incredible last-lap deciders made for a modern classic in the 2023 Finetwork FIM JuniorGP™ World Championship

The iconic Circuito de Jerez – Ángel Nieto played host to Round 3 of the 2023 Finetwork FIM JuniorGP™ World Championship. Six fantastic races, across four classes, every race was as memorable as the other. Angel Piqueras (Team Estrella Galica 0,0) made it a triple victory on the bounce in Race 1 before, David Almansa (Finetwork MIR Racing Team) got off the board with a stunning last-lap win. Carlos Tatay (Pertamina Mandalika SAG team) converted great speed into victory in the Moto2™ European Championship, while championship rivals Max Quiles (Aspar Junior Team) and Brian Uriarte (Team Estrella Galica 0,0) took the spoils in both European Talent Cup races. While in the Stock European Championship Eric Fernandez (FAU55 TEY Racing) pulled out a stunning last-lap pass for the win.

JuniorGP™

Kicking off proceedings in Jerez was JuniorGP™ and the premier class started as the racing was meant to go on with elbow-to-elbow action and eye-watering overtakes throughout. Alvaro Carpe (STV Laglisse Racing), looked as though he would become the 100th JuniorGP™ winner since 1998 with only a few corners remaining. However, Angel Piqueras had other ideas. Bridging a 4 tenths gap at the start of the final lap, the championship leader made an audacious pass on Carpe at the fast Turn 12 before holding on to record a hat-trick of victories from Carpe and Adrian Cruces (Finetwork MIR Racing Team). Luca Lunetta (AC Racing Team) picked up hard-fought 4th after being caught up in a crash with Eddie O’Shea at Lorenzo Corner on the penultimate lap.

Race 2 was much the same but turned up to 11. Fifteen riders featured in the front group in the opening stages but it would be the usual suspects that would contest the victory, which would drop to 9 at the start of the last lap. Alvaro Carpe, once again found himself in the lead on the last lap for a potential victory until David Almansa, on the back of four non-scores, put himself in prime position and, as Piqueras did in Race 1, launched himself up the inside at Turn 12. He would hold off a train of riders into the final corner to take his first win and first points of the season in an emotional victory, ahead of Carpe who was denied another win, but took another well-earned podium. Angel Piques rounded out the podium taking 3 riders on the last corner, denying Cormac Buchanan (AGR Team) a maiden podium but still a career-best for the Kiwi.

For the first time in 2023 Moto2™ European Championship, Senna Agius (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact Junior Team) wasn’t the favourite entering the race, that honour went to Carlos Tatay. Topping every session, the Moto2™ rookie started from a career first pole position, he lost out at the start to Yeray Ruiz (FAU55 TEY Racing) and the fast-starting Senna Agius but it wasn’t long before the #99 found his way to the front. Once the Spaniard hit the front he cleared off into the sunset, leaving Agius and Ruiz to content the rest of the podium positions. The Australian had attempts at passing the #72 but when he did, Ruiz would strike right back, eventually holding off the championship leader for 2nd and a career-first podium. However, no one could stop Carlos Tatay as the Spaniard romped to a maiden win and he’ll be hoping to do the same in Portimao in four weeks’ time.

European Talent Cup

In ETC the races were, as always, absolutely incredible. Action from lights to flag was the order of the day and the results that followed delivered a tasty storyline of a championship that looks like it’s going to be a thrilling story all year long. In Race 1, Quiles launched from pole and would eventually go on to win, but he had to work for it. After showing incredible pace in qualifying and last time out in Valencia, it was expected that the 2021 ETC Champion might race off into the distance, but the total opposite happened. A race-long battle ensued, with Quiles only winning it at the last corner after fending off a move from Brian Uriarte (Team Estrella Galicia 0,0). Uriarte would finish second and behind Dodo Boggio (Aspar Junior Team) who would cross the line third but a time penalty for track limits infringements relegated the Italian to 4th and promoted reigning champion Guido Pini (AC Racing Team) onto the podium.

ETC Race 2 saw one of the greatest final laps in the class’ history. The race started with a group of around 12 at the front but that was soon whittled down to just five at the front heading into the final lap. Hakim Danish (Team Estrella Galicia 0,0) made a brave move down the inside at Turn 6 but just couldn’t hang on and unfortunately crashed out. What followed was quite possibly two of the greatest moves ever seen in the ETC by Uriarte. Into Turn 8 he picked off both Quiles and Boggio before then going around the outside of Pini at the final corner and holding him off to the line by just 0.021 of a second. Quiles completed the podium just over half a tenth behind and still leads the championship but now just by one point from Uriarte.

Stock European Championship

In the Stock ECh race the tale of the race was expected for most of its length. Daniel Muñoz (SP57 Racing Team) has been the dominant force in Stock ECh in 2023 and from the off he was leading here in Jerez. Fernandez, who has shown great potential so far was close behind. Impressively, Fernandez was able to go with and keep the pressure on Muñoz in the closing laps when Muñoz started to up the pace. That persistent pressure was rewarded as Muñoz made a mistake through Turn 7 on the final lap. Fernandez pounced at the next corner but Muñoz but back heading into the final turn. Fernandez saw it coming and cut back underneath for his first victory of the 2023 season. Further behind, Dino Iozzo (IUM Motorsports) had a quiet but rewarding race as he picked up his second podium on the bounce. Muñoz remains the championship leader, but new winner Fernandez now lurks 25 points behind.

You can also find all the results, videos, photos and information regarding the championship on the official website: www.fimjuniorgp.com

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Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here

Shinko SR999 Long Haul Motorcycle Tires | Gear Review

Shinko SR999 Long Haul motorcycle tires

Shinko SR999 Long Haul motorcycle tires are designed for V-Twin cruiser and touring motorcycles, and they handle as good as they look. The tread has rain grooves that run in an alternating diagonal pattern, almost like claw marks, and the styling nicely complements my Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail Classic. But more importantly, those grooves evacuate water efficiently for reliable wet-weather grip, which is essential on the west coast of Florida, where I live and ride. It may be called the Sunshine State, but the Gulf of Mexico sends frog-choking storms our way year-round.

See all of Rider’s tire reviews here.

V-Twins like my Harley are heavy bikes, and the SR999 Long Hauls carry the weight of the machine, rider, and gear very well thanks to their reinforced carcass, aramid belting, and rubber compound, which was formulated for high mileage and confident grip in a range of conditions. Shinko USA’s website has a size chart for the SR999 tires, and there are numerous sizes, with diameters ranging from 15 to 21 inches. The load index ranges from 54 (467 lb) for an 80/90-21 front to 84 (1,102 lb) for a 180/55B18 rear.

A set of SR999 tires were installed on my Softail by Ricachet, one of the best mechanics in Tampa, at HellBenders Motorcycles. Soon after leaving the shop, we had a typical surprise Florida storm roll in. I had barely scrubbed in the tires before the skies opened up. I carefully worked my way through evening traffic, and the tires felt stable and reassuring.

Shinko SR999 Long Haul motorcycle tires

My route home took me onto Interstate 275, and I’m not ashamed to admit I was squeezing the handlebar pretty tight. The Shinkos rolled along smoothly, and as I got up to speed, I noticed…nothing. No squirm, no hunting for grip, just steady cruising like it wasn’t even raining.

After that initial wet ride, I started racking up miles on my daily commute. The SR999s exhibit good stability, give me a lot of confidence in sharp turns, and provide an all-around smooth ride. What I really appreciate is that, despite the reinforced carcass, I don’t feel every bump in the road like I’ve felt with other tires. They handle most of the rough spots on the highway – seams, cracks, gouges, and potholes – without drama.

Shinko SR999 Long Haul motorcycle tires

This is my first experience with Shinko tires, and while I was initially reluctant to try an unfamiliar brand, I’m glad I did. After a few thousand miles on the SR999s, they have exceeded my expectations, and I feel more confident and safer with them on my bike.

Shinko SR999 Long Haul tires are available in a range of front and rear sizes and are priced from $114.95 to $269.95.

The post Shinko SR999 Long Haul Motorcycle Tires | Gear Review appeared first on Rider Magazine.

Source: RiderMagazine.com

Get ready: MotoGP™23 lands soon!

It’s time for even more MotoGP™! The official videogame of the 2023 Championship, MotoGP™23, will launch on Thursday the 8th of June, just as the Gran Premio d’Italia Oakley gets in gear at spectacular Mugello. This latest instalment from videogame developer and publisher Milestone puts every rider and circuit across the MotoGP™, Moto2™, Moto3™ AND MotoE™ seasons at fans’ fingertips, including the spectacular new Tissot Sprint! MotoGP™23 will be available worldwide on PlayStation®5, PlayStation®4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch™ and Steam.

Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here

ROUND-UP: Aprilia revved-up for Mugello after All Star show

It’s been a challenging first quarter for the Noale squad but they’ll hope the extravaganza at Misano will be the boost they’ve been needing

After looking like Ducati’s nearest rival coming into the new campaign, Aprilia has flattered to deceive so far in 2023. Despite being continuously competitive throughout Free Practice, all four riders have failed to convert their obvious pace into any real landmark results. Maverick Viñales’ opening weekend podium in Portimao is the only visit to either a Sprint or Grand Prix rostrum for an Aprilia rider so far this season.

But after over 15,000 fans descended on the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli this past weekend for Aprilia’s All Star event, they’ll be hoping the energy and passion shown will be carried through to their home Grand Prix at Mugello.

ESPARGARO READY TO REDISCOVER 2022 FORM

Aleix’s objective: “to fight for the podium soon”

VIÑALES STILL IN TITLE CONTENTION

Viñales ready for take-off: “I expect to win races”

FERNANDEZ FEELS HIS TIME IS NOW

Fernandez edges closer to 100% ahead of vital triple header

WILL OLIVEIRA RETURN WITH A BANG?

“I felt very uncomfortable” – Oliveira doubts Mugello return

RIVOLA’S VOTE OF CONFIDENCE

Are Aprilia considering 2024 rider moves: “Absolutely not”

GO BEHIND-THE-SCENES

UNSEEN: Aprilia stars get to the chopper at All Star Day

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Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here

Ed Conde | Ep. 62 Rider Magazine Insider Podcast

Ep62 Rider Magazine Insider Podcast Ed Conde

Our guest on Episode 62 of the Rider Magazine Insider Podcast is Ed Conde, and he was interviewed by contributing editor Scott “Bones” Williams. Both are members of New England Riders, a loosely knit but passionate group of motorcyclists who get together for rides, track days, and other activities. Over the past 20 years, Conde has done extensive research and developed an impressive catalog of excellent motorcycling routes throughout eastern North America, from Newfoundland to Alabama, which are available on NewEnglandRiders.org.

LINKS: NewEnglandRiders.org

You can listen to Episode 62 on iTunesSpotify, and Podbean, or via the Rider Magazine Insider Podcast webpage. Please subscribe, leave us a 5-star rating, and tell your friends! Scroll down for a list of previous episodes.

Visit the Rider Magazine Insider Podcast webpage to check out previous episodes:

The post Ed Conde | Ep. 62 Rider Magazine Insider Podcast appeared first on Rider Magazine.

Source: RiderMagazine.com

COMING SOON! MotoGP™ Stories: The Shoulder Cam Project

MotoGP™ Stories: The Shoulder Cam Project offers an in-depth look at the numerous challenges faced during its development. Witness firsthand the obstacles that had to be overcome to create the ultimate onboard experience thanks to the effort of Alex Rins, Aleix Espargaro, Pecco Bagnaia and more. From technical intricacies to safety considerations, every step of the process is unveiled in this 10-minute episode as we speak to Dorna Sports’ Head of Global Technology Sergi Sendra and OnBoard Senior Manager Gerard Navarro, plus Alpinestars’ Chris Hillard.

Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here

New Gear: Nelson-Rigg Hurricane RiggPak Motorcycle Luggage

Nelson-Rigg Hurricane RiggPak motorcycle luggage

Having adjustability in your motorcycle luggage setup can be a game-changer in getting all the storage you need for your next adventure. The Nelson-Rigg Hurricane RiggPak Crash Bar/Tail Bag provides that adjustability.

See all of Rider‘s luggage reviews here.

The Hurricane RiggPak offers universal mounting with hook-and-loop straps and adjustable quick-release buckles that allow you to mount the bag onto your crash bars, luggage racks, or seat.

The Hurricane RiggPak is made from heavy duty UV-treated PVC tarpaulin material, and all seams are electronically heat welded.

Nelson-Rigg Hurricane RiggPak motorcycle luggage

It features a waterproof roll closure, an integrated MOLLE system, and comes with a lifetime warranty. The main compartment of the bag is 6.25 x 4 x 12 inches and holds about 5 liters.

Nelson-Rigg Hurricane RiggPak motorcycle luggage

The Hurricane RiggPak is available for $49.95.

The post New Gear: Nelson-Rigg Hurricane RiggPak Motorcycle Luggage appeared first on Rider Magazine.

Source: RiderMagazine.com

Honda Announces All-New 2023 Honda SCL500, Updated 2024 Models

2023 Honda SCL500 Candy Orange
2023 Honda SCL500 in Candy Orange

In a reported nod to Honda’s history, dating all the way back to the 1960s when the CL72 and CL77 were offered, American Honda recently announced a new 2023 Honda SCL500 scrambler-style motorcycle that is coming to the U.S. market and is based on the Rebel 500 platform. Honda says the SCL500 “combines modern ride quality and comfort with authentic retro styling, and delivers the result at an attractive price.” 

Honda also announced the return of several other models, many of which have received improvements, including the bobber-style 2024 Shadow Phantom cruiser, the 2024 Shadow Aero classic cruiser, and the 2024 ADV 160 scooter. The 2023 PCX scooter and 2024 Grom miniMOTO will return unchanged.  

Related: Honda Announces More 2023 Returning Models

“More than any manufacturer, Honda has consistently demonstrated an ability to deliver fun, retro motorcycles that scratch a nostalgic itch while offering the performance and reliability for which Honda is so well known,” said Brandon Wilson, American Honda manager of Sports & Experiential. “That’s the case with the all-new SCL500, and we’re confident it will be a hit with American customers. ” 

2023 Honda SCL500

2023 Honda SCL500 Matte Laurel Green Metallic
2023 Honda SCL500 in Matte Laurel Green Metallic

The all-new SCL500 features all the key “scrambler” styling elements – upright riding position, high-routed exhaust, block tires, ample suspension travel and a retro aesthetic – in a bike that Honda says will be enjoyable for both new riders and more seasoned enthusiasts. 

2023 Honda SCL500

The SCL500 shares the liquid-cooled 471cc parallel-Twin engine of the Rebel 500 and is mated to a 6-speed transmission and slip/assist clutch. A 41mm front fork provides 5.9 inches of travel, and in the rear, a Pro-Link single shock with nine-position spring preload adjustability offers 4.5 inches. For stopping power, a 2-piston caliper grabs a 310mm front disc and 240mm rear disc, and ABS is standard. 

2023 Honda SCL500

Related: 2020 Honda Rebel 500 ABS | Road Test Review

The SCL500 rides on multi-spoke cast-aluminum wheels, 19 inches in the front and 17 inches in the rear, wrapped in Dunlop Trailmax Mixtour tires. It has 6.1 inches of ground clearance and a 31.1-inch seat height. With a 3.2-gal fuel tank, the bike comes in with a curb weight of 419 lb.  

2023 Honda SCL500

Because personalization is vital to many fans of the scrambler genre, a wide range of Honda accessories is offered for the SCL500. 

The 2023 Honda SCL500 will be available in June and will come in Candy Orange or Matte Laurel Green Metallic starting at $6,799. 

2024 Honda Shadow Phantom

2024 Honda Shadow Phantom Deep Pearl Gray Metallic
2024 Honda Shadow Phantom in Deep Pearl Gray Metallic

For the 2024 model year, the Honda Shadow Phantom cruiser will return with the same liquid-cooled 745cc 52-degree V-Twin, 5-speed transmission, and shaft final drive, but it will include updates to its bobber styling and with improved performance.  

Styling updates include a two-tone gas tank, new handlebar, handlebar clamps, headlight cover, air-cleaner cover, display instruments, turn signals, and machine-cut cylinder-head fins. The Shadow Phantom also has an updated single seat, and a passenger seat and footpegs are offered for those who want to bring a plus-one along for the ride.  

2024 Honda Shadow Phantom Orange Metallic
2024 Honda Shadow Phantom in Orange Metallic

From a performance standpoint, a new ABS version is available for the new model year, and a 276mm rear disc brake replaces the drum brake of the 2023 model. Otherwise, braking in the front will still be provided by a 2-piston caliper gripping at 296mm disc.  

Travel in the front has been increased by half an inch (from 4.6 inches to 5.1 inches) but remains the same 3.5 inches in the rear courtesy of dual shocks with five-position spring-preload adjustability. 

Seat height has dropped slightly, from 25.8 inches to 25.6 inches, and the 2024 model shaved 6 pounds off the curb weight for a total of 543 lb. And at 3.9 gal, the fuel tank holds an additional two-tenths of a gallon over its predecessor.  

2024 Honda Shadow Phantom

The 2024 Honda Shadow Phantom comes in Deep Pearl Gray Metallic or Orange Metallic starting at $8,399 for the non-ABS version (not available in California) or the $8,699 for the ABS version.

2024 Honda Shadow Aero

2024 Honda Shadow Aero

For the 2024 model year, the Honda Shadow Aero classic cruiser, which features the same engine and drive train of its Shadow stablemate, is updated with new colors, as well as the new 276mm rear disc brake for the standard version, a feature that was previously reserved for the ABS trim level. 

Braking in the front is the same as the Shadow Phantom, as is rear suspension and travel. However, in the front, the 41mm fork offers 5.5 inches of travel over the 5.1 inches of the Shadow Phantom.  

Seat height is slightly taller at 26 inches, and with a 3.7-gal fuel tank, the bike comes in with a curb weight of 560 lb. 

Black has replaced the Ultra Blue Metallic colorway on the 2024 Honda Shadow Aero, and the bike starts at $7,949 for the non-ABS version (not available in California) or $8,249 for the ABS version.  

2024 Honda ADV160

2023 Honda ADV160 Red Metallic
2023 Honda ADV160 in Red Metallic

Renamed for the 2024 model year, the ADV160 touts a new, larger-displacement engine that delivers improved performance and reduced emissions. Also incorporated are updates that Honda says are aimed at boosting comfort and convenience, but the company added that the “capable-but-rugged ‘City Adventure’ concept remains, delivering an enjoyable sense of exploration on even the most mundane urban commutes.” 

Related: 2021 Honda ADV150 | First Ride Review

The 2024 Honda ADV160 has a liquid-cooled 157cc single-cylinder, four-stroke engine. The engine, drive train, and 2.4-gal fuel tank are mounted low in the frame for a low center of gravity. It has Showa suspension, with a 31mm telescopic fork and twin shocks providing 5.1/4.0 inches of travel front/rear. When it comes to stopping, it has a single 240mm front disc with ABS and a rear 131mm drum brake. 

2024 Honda ADV160 Pearl Smoky Gray
2024 Honda ADV160 in Pearl Smoky Gray

From a practicality standpoint, the ADV160 has a low curb weight (294 lb), automatic transmission, a two-stage tool-free adjustable windscreen, ample underseat storage (big enough for a full-face helmet), and the Honda SMART key system. 

The 2024 Honda ADV160 will be available in July and will come in Red Metallic or Pearl Smoky Gray starting at $4,499. 

For more information, visit the Honda Powersports website.

See all of Rider‘s Honda coverage here.

The post Honda Announces All-New 2023 Honda SCL500, Updated 2024 Models appeared first on Rider Magazine.

Source: RiderMagazine.com

KiSS Mugello celebrates its 10th anniversary!

Sustainable innovation, technology, passion, and fun are the values on track, while the commitment in this 10th anniversary will focus on: avoiding food waste, promoting sustainable mobility, encouraging material recycling and a circular economy, combating littering, protecting natural resources, promoting the importance of positive local impact, accessibility and inclusion of people with disabilities, and support for local non-profit organisations.

Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here

Still up for grabs in 2023: Che spettacolo!

Check out some of the best stats ahead of MotoGP™’s return to action at the Oakley Grand Prix of Italy

A bumper weekend at Mugello awaits MotoGP™ after a short break, and there are plenty of records up for grabs at the Gran Premio d’Italia Oakley. Check out some of the best below:

Reigning Champion Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) can become the rider with the most victories for Ducati. He is currently third with 13 wins, behind Andrea Dovizioso – who is now just one ahead on 14 – and Casey Stoner, who leads with 23.

Bagnaia could also become the third most successful Italian rider in the premier class in terms of victories. Pecco has 13 and is, therefore, two away from Andrea Dovizioso in third (not forgetting the soon-to-be Legend’s victory with Honda, adding to his 14 with Ducati). Valentino Rossi leads the way with 89, ahead of Giacomo Agostini on 68.

Allez les deux

There have been 98 Grands Prix wins for French riders so far, so France could reach 100 in 2023.

With 12 wins across all classes so far, Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) could become the French rider with the most victories. Johann Zarco (Prima Pramac Racing) leads on 16.

Quartararo, who has 29 Yamaha podiums, could move up to join MotoGP™ Legend Kenny Roberts in fifth on the list of riders with the most podiums with the Iwata marque if he reaches 39.

Zarco could become the fifth French rider to win in the premier class along with Quartararo (11 wins), Régis Laconi (1), Christian Sarron (1) and Pierre Monneret (1). He could also give the honour of being the rider with the most premier class podiums without a win (17) back to Colin Edwards, who has 12.

Half-century not out

Nine riders could reach the milestone of 50 podiums across all classes this year: Bagnaia (45), Miguel Oliveira (CryptoDATA RNF MotoGP™ Team) (41), Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) (41), Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) (41), Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team) (40), Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) (37), Joan Mir (Repsol Honda Team) (33), Jack Miller (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) (33), and Quartararo (33).

Two for two

Mir and Oliveira could win with a second manufacturer, following Rins’ suit. Mir has won with Suzuki and now races for Honda, while Oliveira has five premier class wins with KTM and is now at Aprilia.

Three is the magic number

Maverick Viñales (Aprilia Racing) and Miller could both make MotoGP™ history by winning with three factories. Viñales has won with Suzuki and Yamaha, and aims to add Aprilia. Miller has victories with Honda and Ducati, and has adapted quickly to the KTM.

Marc Marquez vs the record books

Marc Marquez currently has 85 Grand Prix wins across all classes, only five shy of MotoGP™ Legend Angel Nieto. If Marquez reaches 90 +1, he will take both third on the list of the most successful riders and become the most successful Spanish rider in history in terms of wins.

With 59 premier class wins, Marquez could become the second most successful rider in premier class history if he betters the 68 wins of Giacomo Agostini. Valentino Rossi leads the way with 89 premier class wins.

When – if? – when he wins again, Marc Marquez will become the ninth rider in history with a premier class winning career spanning ten years or more.

Marc Marquez vs Marc Marquez

When – if? – when he wins again, it will be the longest gap between victories for the number 93. It was 581 days between Valencia 2019 and the 2021 German Grand Prix. On race day at Mugello it will be 595 days since he won the 2021 Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix, and at the Sachsenring it will be 602. Shall we stop counting there?

It’s been five Grands Prix of more MotoGP™ than ever, and we still can’t get enough! There’s history on the line at the Italian GP – and plenty of glory for the home heroes too – so if you want to be part of the show, head HERE to get your tickets for the truly stunning Autodromo Internazionale del Mugello. Tuscany + MotoGP™… what could be better?!

Follow the entire 2023 Season LIVE & VOD with VideoPass!

Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here