Two-day adventure ride to take place in Victoria’s high country.
Image: Supplied.
Suzuki Motorcycles Australia has announced it will host its latest Adventure Ride on 14-15 December in Victoria’s high country.
The epic two-day tour will venture east from Yarra Junction to Licola, with routes catering for V-Strom and DR-Z/DR motorcycles.
The V-Strom ride has a 6/10 skill riding on sealed and 2WD dirt roads, suiting riders new to riding on gravel roads. The DR-Z/DR will be more challenging suiting people new to off-road riding and those with moderate experience. The ride will traverse some rough 4×4 tracks and be slightly more physical.
Suzuki will also be offering opportunities to test ride latest DR650SE, DR-Z400E and V-Strom motorcycles on Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning.
Surprise, surprise, the Italians have once again cast their vote for an Italian motorcycle as the most beautiful at last week’s EICMA motorcycle show in Milan.
Ducati’s Streetfighter V4 took out the award voted by visitors to the show, making it five wins in the past seven years, or 10 in 14 years.
Fellow Italian company MV Agusta spoilt the run last year when the Brutale 1000 Serie Oro took out the popular-vote title.
Ducati’s big victory run started in 2013 with the Monster 1200 S, followed by the Scrambler, Diavel and SuperSport. In 2012, it was the MV Agusta Rivale 800.
You get the picture!
Italian bikes win at an Italian show even though it is the biggest motorcycle show in the world and every manufacturer is represented.
Similarly, BMW usually wins the title at the biennial Intermot show in Cologne.
Now it’s your turn to vote.
Cast your vote below for the most beautiful bike of the EICMA show.
We have included production and concept bikes and listed them in alphabetic order.
Wayne Rainey says it “made me feel young again” to hop on a specially adapted Yamaha R1 recently after being sidelined for 26 years by a crash that left him paralysed from the waist down.
The three-time world champion and long-time sparring partner with five-time champ Mick Doohan was asked by Yamaha if he would like to take part in the Suzuka Sound of Engine event in Japan next weekend (15/16 November 2019).
Yamaha has prepared a special R1 with a hand-shifter, grippy saddle and clips to hold Wayne’s boots on the pegs.
Wayne, 32, was leading the 1993 Italian Grand Prix at Misano when he slid off the track into the gravel and was hit by his bike.
He broke his back, punctured a lung and was left paralysed from the middle of his chest down.
Wayne had not ridden since until his recent R1 test.
“It was an easy crash because it stepped out and I fell off the side of it,” later said of the crash.
“I was like sliding with the bike across the track but when I went off the track I hit a curb. It kind of set me up in the air then I landed in the gravel trap it had like speed bumps in it for the F1 cars and at that time that’s what we were using in motorcycles.”
“Now all the sand traps are smooth but sometimes it takes a big incident to get something changed.”
Wayne’s Marlboro Team Roberts YZR500 was a constant challenger to Doohan on his Rothmans Honda NSR500.
Wayne leads Mick in 1992 at Catalunya
“Mick and I had some good races and I respect him as a rider,” he once said.
“With Mick you know he’s never going to give up. That’s great in many ways, but it can also get you into trouble because you never back off. You have to be careful, but you have to win.”
Wayne won three consecutive 500cc World Championships between 1990 and 1992.
Despite not being able to ride since the crash, Wayne has remained a strong supporter of motorcycle racing and is President of the US-based MotoAmerica series.
Iván Ortolá closed the season in the ETC as he began: by winning. The Ángel Nieto Junior Team rider took his third win of the season in a thrilling race that was not decided until the last lap. Fermín Aldeguer (Mugen Race Junior Team), Lorenzo Fellon (ZF GP School), Marcos Ruda (Cuna de Campeones), Diego Moreira (Talent Team Estrella Galicia 0,0), Adrián Cruces (Talent Team Estrella Galicia 0,0), David Alonso (Ángel Nieto Junior Team), José Antonio Rueda (Talent Team Estrella Galicia 0,0), Roberto García (MRE Talent) and Joel D. Kelso (Leopard Impala Junior) formed the group of riders in with a chance of the podium.
Certain lifestyles demand transportation in and out of town daily, and a commuter bike is the best bet for that. The primary concern about these bikes is that they should be perfect for navigating the daily grind. Though for an enthusiastic, these usual bikes are not just for daily commutes, they fill the bucket by also being a weekend bike or touring bike.
With upright ergons, excellent fuel efficiency, high mileage and stunning visual appeal, daily commute bikes are something worth getting out of bed for. Here is the list of some of the best bikes for your daily commute at a price that won’t break your bank accounts:
Here Super Splendor is known for its durability, reliability, and fuel efficiency. It gives a mileage of 65 to 81 km/litre and has a 125cc engine, which retails for INR 61,186. Along with this, it has i3c technology and IBS system for added security. The wide and firm seats reflect the stature of the rider. Available in several guises, the Hero Super Splendor has got a bike model for everyone’s taste. Splendor’s lightweight, easy control and the prudent engine makes it a persuasive suggestion for a rider looking for a durable, fuel-efficient, no-nonsense motorcycle.
Bajaj Discover 125 is powered by 124.5cc and a single-cylinder engine which produces 11 bhp of maximum power and 11 Nm of peak torque. This comfortable bike is available in 4 colors – red, blue, black and black with grey. You might have noticed the huge traffic that abides on roads during office hours which sometimes leads to unlikely mishaps. Because of the same reason this bike has lately been updated with Combined Braking System (CBS), which makes it one of the best choices for your daily commute to work.
Like the other bikes of the ‘Dream Series’, the styling of Honda Dream Yoga is conventional and very basic in its styling. Currently, it is available in two variants – with and without CBS (Combined Braking System). The engine is 109.19cc air-cooled, 4-stroke, single-cylinder HET engine that is tuned to produce 8.31bhp of power and 9.09 Nm of torque. In terms of color options, Honda Dream Yuga is available in five colors – Vibrant Blue, All Black, Sports Red, Majestic Grey, and Sports Black.
TVS Star City Plus is made out to be a bit sleeker and smoother than the other TVS bikes. It has an enhanced wing mirrors and low-profile rolling resistance tyres for better commuting. It is an everyday motorcycle that focuses on high-end performance and fuel efficiency with a revised ‘Eco thrust’ 110 cc DLI engine. The powerful motor produces 8.3 BHP and has a crest torque of 8.7 Nm. So, if you want a stress-free ride that caters to your needs of daily commute, then this can be the right pick for you.
Bajaj CT100 has an extra-long seat that keeps things comfortable for both the rider and pillion. Concerning power, the Bajaj CT100 uses a 102-cc single-cylinder and a 4-stroke engine which is modified to deliver 7.6 bhp of power and 8.24 Nm of highest torque. This commuter bike is available in three vibrant colors, black with silver and red decals, black with silver and blue decals and a vivacious red.
Planning to Bring Your Daily Commute Home? Don’t Forget to Buy Bike Insurance
One common mistake done by people who are planning to buy a new bike is that they miss out on one crucial aspect – bike insurance. While you look at the significant factors like fuel efficiency, engine power, mileage, it is equally important to buy bike insurance policy to get coverage against losses that you might have to incur in case of an unlikely event. Be at the safe side and buy bike insurance from a prominent insurer like TATA AIG. They offer several add-ons like third party property damage cover to increase the third-party liability coverage, along with the other essential insurance coverage.
One rider has died and another seriously injured in separate crashes in NSW and Queensland overnight.
Blacktown collision
In NSW, a 22-year-old man from Lalor Park died at the scene of a collision with a Toyota utility in Blacktown, western Sydney, at 8.30pm (9 November 2019).
The collision occurred at the intersection of Sunnyholt Road, and Main Street.
The 52-year-old male driver from Lalor Park was uninjured and taken to Blacktown Hospital for mandatory blood and urine testing.
Officers from Blacktown Police Area Command established a crime scene and are investigating.
A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.
Our condolences to the rider’s family and friends.
Police are calling for witnesses or motorists with dashcam video to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.
Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report crime via NSW Police social media pages.
Queensland fatal
A 42-year-old male rider has suffered serious internal injuries after falling from his motorcycle about 6pm in Drayton, Toowoomba.
Members of the community rendered first aid to the man prior to the arrival of emergency services.
Paramedics transported the man to Toowoomba Hospital before he was later flown to Princess Alexandra Hospital.
Our sincere best wishes to the rider for a full and speedy recovery.
Despite Queensland Police appealing for witnesses and dashcam video, their official media release says “the rider lost control while attempting to turn a corner”.
The unfortunate statement is presumptuous and may suggest to the public that riders are reckless and don’t deserve motorists’ consideration.
Indian’s 2019 Factory Authorised Clearance just got better
Now get up to $3,000 off accessories and apparel + Complementary on road costs!*
MY19 Roadmaster
MY19 Roadmaster – $3,000 off accessories and apparel + Complementary On Roads*
$3,000 off accessories and apparel + Complementary On Roads*
The Roadmaster is loaded with premium touring amenities. Impressive power from the Thunder Stroke® 111 V-Twin engine, keyless ignition, industry-leading Ride Command with a 200-watt premium audio system, individually heated seats, and a push-button power windshield. The list goes on and on.
MY19 Scout Bobber
MY19 Scout Bobber – $2,000 off accessories and apparel + Complementary On Roads*
$2,000 off accessories and apparel + Complementary On Roads*
Stripped down and blacked out with an aggressive stance and raw power, the Scout Bobber is a modern take on the iconic bobber style.
MY19 Springfield Dark Horse
MY19 Springfield Dark Horse – $2,000 off accessories and apparel + Complementary On Roads*
$2,000 off accessories and apparel + Complementary On Roads*
The blacked-out Thunder Stroke® 111 V-Twin Engine defines a Dark Horse. And now it features gloss-black details that contrast with its matte-paint finish, along with an open front fender that exposes a 19” 10-spoke contrast-cut front wheel.
MY19 Chief Vintage
MY19 Chief Vintage – $2,000 off accessories and apparel + Complementary On Roads*
$2,000 off accessories and apparel + Complementary On Roads*
Heritage Looks. State-of-the-Art Technology
Genuine leather saddlebags, classic wire wheels, whitewall tyres, and premium leather seats make for a rich, classic ride. Pair that with the famed Thunder Stroke 111 engine producing 151 Nm of torque. and you get a modern American ride that’s steeped in nostalgia.
Join Suzuki and other fellow riders, on a two day epic adventure ride in Victoria’s high country as we venture east from Yarra Junction to Licola.
During the two day ride there will be rides catering for V-Strom motorcycles and DR-Z/DR motorcycles.
The V-Strom ride has a 6/10 skill riding on sealed road and some 2WD dirt roads and suits riders new to riding on gravel roads.
The DR-Z/DR will be more challenging suiting people new to off road riding and those with moderate experience. The ride will traverse some rough 4×4 tracks and be slightly more physical.
Suzuki DR-Z400
Exclusive opportunity to test ride Suzuki’s latest DR650SE, DR-Z400E and V-Strom motorcycles on Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning and special deals on purchase on new units.
2020 Suzuki DR650SE Tanami Edition
Spots are available from just $99. This cost gets you an overnight bed in lodge style accommodation at the Licola Wilderness Village, cooked dinner and breakfast.
There will be prizes and giveaways, come along for a fun ride.
WHEN: 14 – 15 December, 2019
Saturday – Yarra Junction to Licola, estimated ride time four hours
Sunday – Returning to Melbourne, estimated ride time four hours
MEET POINT: Yarra Junction – corner of Warburton Highway and Little Yarra Road
DEPARTURE TIME: Meet group at 9:30am for a 10:00am departure.
Ducati have announced an updated Panigale V4 and Panigale V4 S for 2020, promising a more rider-friendly and less fatiguing mount that is also able to cut faster laps.
2020 Ducati Panigale V4 S
Much of the inspiration for these changes comes from the V4 R, with revisions to the Ride-By-Wire mapping, an updated aerodynamic package and a new front frame designed to improve feel at the extremes.
2020 Ducati Panigale V4 S
These changes join updates to the electronic aides which make use of a six-axis inertial platform. Ohlins Smart Electronic Control suspension is found on the up-spec S model.
Both Panigale V4 models boast the 1103cc Desmosedici Stradale 90° V4 with Desmodromic timing, a counter-rotating crankshaft and Twin-Pulse firing order. Claimed power comes in at 214 hp at 13000 rpm, with 123.5 Nm of torque.
The V4 feature a 1103cc Desmosedici Stradale 90° V4 engine
The big update for 2020 is a new Ride-by-Wire system with track-dedicated mapping. Ducati promise smoother, more predictable throttle response. Torque curves have been tweaked in gears one through three for a more linear delivery, and vary according to the Power Mode chosen.
The 2020 V4 and V4 S boast updates to the RbW and mapping
The updated aerodynamics package was co-developed by Ducati Corse and the Ducati Style Centre based on computational fluid dynamic and wind tunnel research.
Fairings have been updated and are based on designs prior to current MotoGP limitations on foils
The 2020 Panigale V4 aerodynamic package includes a taller and more angled plexiglass screen with a taller nose fairing to offer the rider better wind protection, and in doing so reduce arm and shoulder-created drag.
A taller screen is joined by wider lateral fairings
Larger lateral fairings are 38mm wider on each side, and there’s more efficient air vents to direct air through the radiators, with Ducati noting these replaced the more stylish Panigale V4 vents previously seen.
Aerofoils take the cue from the GP16 machine, prior to the current restrictions on foil shapes, meaning these are actually more efficient than those found on the current MotoGP machinery. These aerofoils offer 30kg of downforce at 270km/h, reducing front wheel float and boosting stability.
The 2020 V4 and V4 S also feature a new Front Frame design derived from the V4 R
Also new for 2020 is the ‘Front Frame’ designed to Ducati Corse specifications and offering the bike a higher centre of gravity, increased chain force angle and improved use of the suspension travel available, which Ducati say will ensure an easier machine to lay into corners off the brakes, faster apexes and more neutral handling out of corners.
The front frame is derived from that on the V4 R, with lighter machined sides and greater flexibility, and is joined by a magnesium sub-frame alongside a cast aluminium seat sub-frame.
Ohlins electronic suspension is featured on the V4 S
The 2020 V4 features Showa 43mm Big Piston forks with full adjustability, a Sachs steering damper and fully adjustable shock absorber. In contrast the V4 S features Ohlins NIX-30 forks and a TTX36 shock with Ohlins event-based steering damper, all controlled by the Ohlins Smart EC 2.0 system.
Revised springs and pre-load are also an update for 2020
Wheels remain aluminium five-spoke items on the V4, with three-spoke forged aluminium items on the V4 S.
Brakes are also unchanged from the outgoing model, with Brembo Stylema monobloc calipers on 330mm rotors, alongside the Ducati ABS Cornering EVO system.
Five-spoke wheels are found on the V4 with forged aluminium three-spoke items on the V4 S, both clad in Pirelli Supercorsa SP rubber
Electronics are the latest generation package with a six-axis IMU, ABS Cornering EVO, Ducati Traction Control, Ducati Slide Control, Ducati Wheelie Control EVO, Ducati Power Launch, Ducati Quick Shift Up/Down EVO 2, Engine Brake Control and the Ohlins based Ducati Electronic Suspension EVO system. Riding modes offer a range of presets, which on the V4 S include the suspension settings. A 5-inch TFT in full colour is also fitted.
Wade Young is aiming for his third straight Wildwood Rock Extreme victory this coming weekend on board his Sherco 300 SE Factory, with the 2017 and 2018 victor back in Australia preparing with the Motul Pirelli Sherco Team determined to claim another Wildwood victory.
Wade Young – Red Bull Romaniacs 2019
Wade Young
“It’s great to be back in Australia and heading to Wildwood Rock once again. I’ve had an interesting year of racing with my fair share of bad luck and a few injuries but I’m here to race and here to go for the win. The boys at Sherco Australia are looking after me and I have new 2020 model 300 SE Factory edition which I am keen to start testing.”
Wade Young
Although hard on himself, Young claimed the 2019 American Hard Enduro Series and more recently placed second at the Red Bull Sea to Sky event in Turkey behind fellow Sherco hard enduro star Mario Roman.
Wade Young – Image by Future7Media
Young is determined to get back to winning form at the Wildwood Rock Extreme before taking on the Roof of Africa on December 4 in the Kingdom of Lesotho.
Wade Young
“I’ve been told this is the tenth year of Wildwood so I would love to claim my third victory there on a momentous occasion. It’s a fun race but it’s also quite demanding. The fans are great there and they go a bit crazy which is really good fun and it certainly makes me try a bit harder.”
Wade Young – 111 Megawatt 2018
Wildwood Rock Extreme begins on Sunday, November 10 at 9:00am at 227 Feehans Road, Wildwood. Entry is $20 adult, under-16s are $10. Children under-10 are free.
Wade Young conquers Wildwood Extreme Enduro – Kane O’Rourke Photography
