The iconic boxer heads sticking out the side are missing on the first electric sidecar prototype from Ural Motorcycles.
Ural Electric Prototype is just the first development phase and there is no word on when — or if — the finished product will come to market.
The Russian company estimates it would take about two years to ramp up serial production upon final design approval.
Electric sidecar
An electric sidecar makes a lot more sense than an electric bike because there is so much more space to fit batteries.
While this prototype doesn’t have the traditional Ural (previously BMW) boxer engine, or clutch lever, gear shifter or instruments, it does still have a fuel cap where you stick the cord in to charge the vehicle.
The electric prototype is based on the one-wheel drive cT chassis with batteries, controller and other components from Californian electric motorcycles company Zero Motorcycles.
However, it seems they have used the previous model batteries with 165km of range, not the new Zero batteries with about 330km in the city and 155km on the highway.
Ural does not specify how that 165km of range was achieved. However, they say tech specs will change before this outfit comes to market as they will use the latest battery technology available.
Ural says the electric sidecar prototype will be shown at North American motorcycle shows and demo-ride events to collect feedback “before moving to the next phase of this project”.
Ural Australia spokesman Matthew Hodge says they are discussing the opportunity to bring it to Australia. Stay tuned for updates!
Fellow California company ICG designed and fabricated the prototype for Ural while Zero provided engineering support during development and testing.
‘Perfect’ platform
Ural President and CEO Ilya Khait says a sidecar is “the perfect platform to build an electric motorcycle because it can offer what regular two-wheeled motorcycles can’t: passenger comfort, stability and safety, not to mention more space for batteries”.
“We’re very happy with the results,” he says.
“At a glance it’s still a Ural, but the electric bike offers a totally new experience.”
It is believed the baterries are in the floor of the sidecar which would provide a very low centre of gravity for better handling.
Actually, at first glance, it looks very little like a Ural from any angle thanks to the lack of boxer heads and the big “B” shaped aluminium motor frame.
Ilya points out another difference from the traditional Ural: “It accelerates very quickly – for a Ural.”
Company operations VP Jason Rae says their main goal with the prototype was achieving “proof of concept”.
“We went through several iterations, searching for the best configuration of the electric powertrain package,” he says.
“One of the main challenges was to find the optimal location for the batteries while maintaining passenger comfort, storage capacity and stability distinctive to Ural sidecars.
“The bike was tested intensively in real-world conditions – in the rain and snow, on cold and hot days, on the highway and city streets. We accumulated a lot of data that will be used in the next phase of the project.
“Admittedly, I was apprehensive in the beginning that an electric Ural was something worth putting our resources into, but now I’m totally convinced and looking forward to development of our production intent prototype.”
Former WorldSSP outfit steps up with factory-supported machinery next year.
Source: Supplied.
GRT Yamaha will step up to the premier category in the 2019 Motul FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK), fielding Superbike regular Marco Melandri and 2018 WorldSSP champion Sandro Cortese.
The team will utilise factory-supported Yamaha YZF-R1 machines as both riders bring a wealth of experience to the outfit, which will prove to be beneficial in its maiden Superbike campaign.
28-year-old Cortese took five race wins and 10 podium finishes on his way to being crowned as the first ever Moto3 world champion in 2012, while he secured the 2018 WorldSSP title in his debut season aboard a Yamaha YZF-R6 with a podium finish in the final round in Qatar.
“To win the WorldSSP championship and then step up to WorldSBK with the GRT Yamaha Team is like a dream come true for me,” said Cortese. “I’m super happy to be a part of this new project and, although it’s a big step, I am really looking forward to the challenge. I can’t wait to jump on the Yamaha YZF-R1 for the first time in Jerez later this month to start the familiarisation process.
“It will be like christmas for me – I’ve never ridden such a big bike before and I am like a small kid who can’t wait to get his present! The bike will be more physically demanding to ride than the Yamaha YZF-R6 and, with three races every weekend instead of just one next year, I will definitely need to work on my fitness over the winter to ensure I’m ready.”
GRT Yamaha team manager Filippo Conti commented: “I am really delighted to be stepping up to the WorldSBK championship with Yamaha, it’s like a dream come true. We started this project in WorldSSP and now we are moving up to WorldSBK, which is very important for the team but also for Yamaha’s production racing program. It’s a big step for us and we know we will be facing a steep learning curve in our debut season, but our two riders bring with them a wealth of experience.
“Riders don’t come more experienced than Marco, who has been a frontrunner in WorldSBK since he came to the championship in 2011. And while 2019 will be Sandro’s first season on a WorldSBK machine, he’s the reigning WorldSSP champion and a former Moto3 World Champion, so I expect him to adapt quickly to our Yamaha YZF-R1.
“We need to learn a lot in this new category, but our target is clear; we want to be as competitive in WorldSBK as we have been in WorldSSP. Maybe this isn’t possible in our debut season, but that’s the goal for the future.”
Melandri and Cortese will get their first opportunity to test the Yamaha YZF-R1 they’ll campaign in GRT Yamaha colours in 2019 during a two-day test at the Jerez circuit in southern Spain, which gets underway on 26 November.
Watson clinches commanding victory in The Netherlands.
Source: Supplied.
Billy Bolt (Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing) has been crowned the inaugural champion of the 2018 World Enduro Super Series (WESS) following the eighth and final round at the Red Bull Knock Out in The Netherlands.
In what was the sixth edition of the Dutch beach race, Nathan Watson (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) stormed his way to a debut win on the Scheveningen shoreline, taking victory over home favourite Glenn Coldenhoff (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) and Belgium’s Yentel Martens (Husqvarna).
Eager to impress in front of his home crowd, Coldenhoff set the early race pace, with Watson, Martens, Camille Chapeliere (KTM) and Britain’s Todd Kellet (Husqvarna) in tow. During the opening half of the race, Coldenhoff set a blisteringly fast pace and appeared to have all under control.
However, the opening of the extreme X-Loop for the final hour dramatically changed the flow of the race and Watson – putting his enduro skills to good use – fighting his way into the lead. Continuing his fast pace during the final laps, and with the track at his roughest, Watson stormed ahead to claim a 90-second margin of victory over Coldenhoff, with Martens coming through for third.
In the battle at the head of the World Enduro Super Series, all eyes were on title contenders Bolt and Lettenbichler, who were inside the top 20 of the 750 competitors. Positioning themselves out of trouble early on, the duo were closely matched with Bolt holding an important advantage.
Despite giving his best efforts, Manuel Lettenbichler (KTM) was unable to get the better of Bolt in the deep Dutch sand, finishing a creditable 15th to take the runner-up result in the 2018 World Enduro Super Series. In the fight for the final step of the championship podium, Watson’s round eight victory saw him advance to third in the rankings.
KTM’s Nathan Watson wins season finale from Coldenhoof & Martens
Billy Bolt has been crowned 2018’s Ultimate Enduro Champion at the eighth and final round of the World Enduro Super Series – the Red Bull Knock Out held in The Netherlands.
Billy Bolt – WESS 2018 – Round 8 Red Bull Knock Out – Image by Future7Media
The Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing rider claimed the top step of the championship podium ahead of Germany’s Manuel Lettenbichler and round winner Nathan Watson.
WESS 2018 – Round 8 Red Bull Knock Out – Image by Future7Media
Bolt is well-known for his Hard Enduro ability, while runner-up Lettenbichler was the championship’s best placed privateer, with motocross turned enduro racer Nathan Watson claiming the final position and representing the championship’s diversity and enduro spirit.
Nathan Watson – WESS 2018 – Round 8 Red Bull Knock Out – Image by Future7Media
Billy Bolt – 2018 Champion
“I can’t believe it, this is going to take some time to sink in. To be the first World Enduro Super Series champion is awesome. The race was crazy, I had two huge crashes and hit the ground hard, but apart from that I enjoyed it. It was tough making your way past all the other competitors – there were bikes abandoned everywhere. The track changes every lap – there’s hardly a start straight now the tide has come in so much. It was frustrating at times when you got stuck or lost time due to someone else’s mistake, but that’s the nature of the race and generally the whole event went well for me. It’s been such a long season, with so many different races – to finish at the top when it’s all come to a close – it feels unreal. It’s been a real rollercoaster season for me with some challenges and then my knee surgery, to stand here now having won WESS is brilliant. It’s been a real team effort. The Rockstar Husky guys have really done everything and more to allow me to win this championship. It’s been a real team effort.”
Billy Bolt claims the 2018 WESS title in the Netherlands – Image by Future7Media
The sixth edition of the Dutch Beach Race saw Watson stormed his way to a debut win on the Scheveningen shoreline, taking victory over home favourite Glenn Coldenhoff and Belgium’s Yentel Martens.
After seven rounds of Hard Enduro, Classic Enduro and Cross-Country racing, the first season of the multi-discipline Enduro series drew to a spectacular close at the infamous Red Bull Knock Out Beach Race. 1000 competitors took to the start line for the one-hour morning qualifier – won by Watson and 750 riders earned their place in the two-hour Final.
WESS 2018 – Round 8 Red Bull Knock Out – Image by Future7Media
Eager to impress in front of his home crowd, Coldenhoff set the early race pace, with Watson, Martens, Camille Chapeliere and Britain’s Todd Kellet in tow. During the opening half of the race, Coldenhoff set a blisteringly fast pace and appeared to have all under control.
However, the opening of the extreme X-Loop for the final hour dramatically changed the flow of the race and Watson – putting his Enduro skills to good use – fought his way into the lead. Continuing his fast pace during the final laps, and with the track at its roughest, Watson stormed ahead to claim a 90-second margin of victory over Coldenhoff, with Martens coming through for third.
WESS 2018 – Round 8 Red Bull Knock Out – Image by Future7Media
Nathan Watson – 3rd overall & Red Bull Knock Out winner
“I am so happy, I have been looking forward to this race all year. To take the win feels amazing, especially after finishing runner-up the last two times. I put myself under a lot of pressure coming here, everyone had me down as the favourite but anything can happen, especially in beach racing. I was ill last week and I didn’t expect to be so strong, but the whole race went perfectly. Glenn got away really fast at the beginning but I knew if I held on, I should come strong at the end. I can’t thank the team enough, it’s been a seriously tough year for me – I’ve experienced a lot of new events and learned a lot. To jump up to take third overall in the WESS championship is incredible.”
Nathan Watson – WESS 2018 – Round 8 Red Bull Knock Out – Image by Ydwer van der Heide
Glenn Coldenhoff – 2nd at Red Bull Knock Out
“That was a tough race, I am happy with second but it’s disappointing not to take the win. I started off really well and took the joker lane twice and was still leading at the halfway point. I was close to running out of fuel at the pitstop and lost a bit of time there but still felt good and had about a minute lead. When they opened up the X-Loop it was ok at first but on the second time through there were a lot of riders already stuck. I wanted to make sure I completed it properly but in the end the organisers were directing everyone up the side. I put in a lot of training for the event after the Motocross of Nations and I’m glad to take the runner-up, I just wish it was one step further up the podium.”
Glenn Coldenhoff – WESS 2018 – Round 8 Red Bull Knock Out – Image by Future7Media
In the battle at the head of the World Enduro Super Series, all eyes were on title contenders Bolt and Lettenbichler, who were inside the top 20 of the 750 competitors. Positioning themselves out of trouble early on, the duo were closely matched with Bolt holding an important advantage.
However, two crashes by Bolt put him on the back foot during the closing stages of the race. Needing a lap to regroup he began to make headway, using the technical X-Loop to his advantage. Pushing clear of Lettenbichler and working his way up to 12th, the Husqvarna rider crossed the finish line as the newly-crowned Ultimate Enduro Champion.
Billy Bolt – WESS 2018 – Round 8 Red Bull Knock Out – Image by Future7Media
Despite giving his best effort, Lettenbichler was unable to get the better of Bolt in the deep Dutch sand, finishing a creditable 15th to take the runner-up result in the 2018 World Enduro Super Series. In the fight for the final step of the championship podium, Watson’s round eight victory saw him leap past teammate Josep Garcia who placed 16th – to secure third overall.
Manuel Lettenbichler – 2018 runner-up
“It’s been an amazing year and to end it as the championship runner-up is beyond my pre-season expectations. I knew Billy was good in the sand, so my plan here was to try and keep him behind me and do my best to claim as many points as possible. I wasn’t sure how things would be after hurting my thumb at the Gotland Grand National. But the adrenalin has kept the pain away today and I’m really happy with my ride. Overall, I have had some strong podiums and I really feel like I have come into my form and that I’m riding at the top of my game. To end WESS as the series’ runner-up is amazing, but now I have to come back even stronger next year and take Billy’s title. Congratulations to him, it’s been a great year battling with him.”
Manuel Lettenbichler – WESS 2018 – Round 8 Red Bull Knock Out – Image by Future7Media
In becoming the Ultimate Enduro Champion of 2018, Billy Bolt claimed the World Enduro Super Series prize of a KTM X-Bow.
Billy Bolt won a KTM X-Bow – WESS 2018 – Round 8 Red Bull Knock Out – Image by Future7Media
Red Bull Knock Out – WESS Round 8 Results
Nathan Watson (KTM – GBR) 24 laps, 2:01:43.785
Glenn Coldenhoff (KTM – NED) 2:03:14.001
Yentel Martens (Husqvarna – BEL) 2:07:35.255
Camille Chapeliere (KTM – FRA) 23 laps 2:03:48.396
Todd Kellet (Husqvarna – GBR) 2:05:51.526
Jamie McCanney (Yamaha – GBR) 2:06:02.401
Lars van Berkel (KTM – NED) 2:06:57.553
Axel van de Sande (Yamaha – BEL) 2:07:19.272
Jeffrey DeWulf (Yamaha – BEL) 2:07:57.178
Sven van der Mierden (Husqvarna – NED) 22 laps 2:04:34.561
WESS Championship Podium – Lettenbichler, Bolt, Watson – WESS 2018 – Round 8 Red Bull Knock Out – Image by Future7Media
World Enduro Super Series Final Championship Standings
Riders should be aware that spring and summer is the season for resurfacing roadworks in most southern areas because the warmer weather makes asphalt more stable and easier to compact.
NSW alone has more than 175km of road resurfacing scheduled over the next few months.
Roads and Maritime Service Regional Maintenance Director John Dinan says asphalting work starting this month includes the Ballina Bypass (Pacific Highway), the Bruxner Highway near Alstonville, Pacific Highway where to intersects with the Oxley Highway, and at Coffs Harbour.
“The warmer weather allows the asphalt to remain stable and easy to compact before it cools,” he says.
However, asphalt resurfacing occurs all year round in Queensland, north NSW and northern parts of South Australia and Western Australia.
Riders should also check relevant websites provided by road authorities and automobile clubs that list roadworks.
You can also use some of these sites to report dangerous road conditions.
Resurfacing stats
John says there is about 2.5 tonnes of asphalt per cubic metre of road and they can lay up to 2000 tonnes of asphalt per day. They target resurfacing 2.3% of all tarmac roads a year.
“Asphalt is safe, smooth and durable and is up to 100% reusable,” he says.
“It’s also flexible and new technologies used is making asphalt a more sustainable choice for road surfaces.”
Australian Asphalt Pavement Association NSW Executive Director Dougall Broadfoot says motorists are not allowed to ride on newly laid asphalt until it has cooled to below 60C.
“If the new asphalt surface is not allowed to cool down sufficiently, passing vehicles may affect the smoothness of the surface before it sets,” he says.
“By driving over soft asphalt it may create bumps and grooves on the surface, which would be a less smooth journey for motorists. An uneven surface also causes water to pool in the grooves.
“So please be patient when near worksites, for the safety of yourself and workers. Follow the instruction of traffic controllers and the reduced speed limit of 40km/h when work is carried out.”
In 2015, they produced a video featuring multi-Australian Superbike Champion Malcolm Campbell and interstate motorcycle club member Lester Knowlesridging around te state and poi ting out te features and the dangers.
This year the video has been updated.
It is now joined by the Charley Boorman video and another video about riding the West Coast with local rider and Regional Chief with the Tasmanian Fire Service, Jeff Harper, on his Victory Cross Roads Cruiser.
RSAC provides all riders with information and videos when they board the Spirit of Tasmania. They also produce billboards and posters displayed along popular Tassie riding routes.
You can get more travel information on their Touring Motorcyclists web page.
Charley rates Tassie
Charley leads a Tassie tour
In his video, Charley rates Tasmania highly for riding. He says it has a “huge heritage of riding motorcycles”, “the roads are beautiful, the landscape incredible and the tarmac is just wonderful”.
“There are not many straight bits,” he says.
Charley provides some safety riding and gear tips remarking that it is important to feel comfortable.
He also talks about his tours in Australia which take in Tasmania, as well as his African tours and he praises his ride, a Triumph Tiger 1200.
Although gaining notoriety riding a German BMW around the world with actor friend Ewan McGregor, Boorman has been an ambassador for the British brand for several years now.
In it, he answers many of the questions posted by our readers, including his next trip wth Star Wars star Ewan McGregor, his regrets, riding tips and more.
18% more power | New brakes | Updated forks | Revised styling
Triumph’s Street Scrambler was launched in 2017, offering rugged off-road attitude and a versatile overall package, with heritage that can be traced back to the early 1960s when the first Triumph scramblers were born with the Bonneville T120 TT and TR6 ‘C’.
2019 Triumph Street Scrambler
The 2019 Street Scrambler adds a addition performance and higher specification, thanks to a host of updates on the latest addition, as well as a strong focus on style and detail.
2019 Triumph Street Scrambler updates
Significant power increase, up 9.8hp to 64hp – 18% more peak power
Red line now 500rpm higher
New Brembo 4-piston front brake caliper
New higher-specification cartridge front forks
New Road and Rain riding modes
New more contemporary logo
New more premium instrument styling
New adventure-oriented seat finish
New ‘Urban Tracker’ inspiration kit
2019 Triumph Street Scrambler
900cc High Torque Bonneville engine
The 900cc High Torque Bonneville engine has been upgraded to deliver 9.8hp more peak power, taking the total to 64hp, which is an impressive 18 per cent more than the previous version.
2019 Triumph Street Scrambler – 64hp, with 80Nm of torque from 3200rpm
This evolution also delivers higher revs, up by 500rpm to 7500rpm, with a peak torque of 80Nm delivered low from 3200rpm, with a signature high level exhaust system and an unmistakable exhaust note.
Updates to the Street Scrambler’s High Torque 900 engine include a new magnesium cam cover, lightweight crankshaft, dead shafts and balance shafts, optimised clutch cover and new lighter clutch.
2019 Triumph Street Scrambler
In addition to these updates, the new Street Scrambler retains a high standard of modern technology, with ride-by-wire and a single throttle body. Liquid cooling delivers low emissions and fuel efficient riding. Service intervals of 16,000km also help maintain the Street Scrambler’s low cost of ownership.
Higher specification suspension & brakes
The 2019 Street Scrambler is designed to deliver precise handling and a balanced agile feel, boasting a host of chassis and suspension updates.
2019 Triumph Street Scrambler – KYB 41mm forks with gaiters
The new Brembo four-piston front brake caliper provides better stopping power, with improved bite and feel for rider control. New higher spec cartridge front forks with scrambler-style rubber gaiters and 120mm travel, deliver road and light off-road capability and comfort.
KYB 41mm forks – Dual rear shocks
The Street Scrambler also delivers a commanding rider position with comfortable ergonomics and accessible handling. These come from the scrambler wide handlebars, forward set foot pegs and a 19 inch spoked front wheel with dual purpose Metzeler Tourance tyres fitted as standard.
Extensive electronics
The 2019 Street Scrambler features new Road and Rain riding modes, which adjust the throttle map and traction control settings for the optimal riding experience in all conditions.
2019 Triumph Street Scrambler – Analogue dash with digital multifunction display
Switchable ABS is also featured for enhanced rider confidence and safety, as well as a torque-assist clutch for a lighter touch and feel at the lever. An LED rear light is incorporated into the tail set-up, with a distinctive rear light pattern.
2019 Triumph Street Scrambler – ABS is standard fitment
An immobiliser is also fitted as standard, with transponder incorporated into the key, for maximum security, while a USB charging socket located under the seat offers charging of personal electronic devices.
Iconic scrambler design
The 2019 Triumph Scrambler features clean lines, a high-level exhaust, sculpted tank, minimal bodywork, and premium modern finishes, alongside a host of other aesthetic updates including the new number-board side panel graphics incorporating the more contemporary new logo and upgraded instruments styling with a new bezel and metallic branded embellisher and a new dial face with translucent silver detailing.
2019 Triumph Street Scrambler
A new adventure-oriented seat finish with durable leather and textile is featured alongside wider spaced front forks which required a revised front mudguard, top yoke and headlight brackets.
2019 Triumph Street Scrambler
Other features found on the previous version and carried through to the latest iteration include the sculpted scrambler fuel tank with locking filler cap, and rubber knee pads. Black engine covers feature Triumph’s makers mark triangle and Bonneville engine badge, with an elegant single throttle body and aluminium finisher.
2019 Triumph Street Scrambler
On the exhaust side of things, there’s brushed exhaust headers and distinctive Bonneville engine finned head and header clamps. The twin seat set-up has an interchangeable pillion seat and aluminium rear rack, as well as removable pillion pegs and hangers for off-road durability. Steel high grip ‘Bear Trap’ adventure style front foot pegs also provide grip, and an all terrain style bash plate ensures protection in rough conditions.
2019 Triumph Street Scrambler
The front mudguard also mounts to suit a larger wheel and dual purpose tyre clearance.
The new for 2019 Street Scrambler is available in three paint schemes – Fusion White; Cranberry Red; Khaki Green and Matt Aluminium, with jet black coach-line
2019 Triumph Street Scrambler
Customisation accessories
The base for countless custom builds, the Street Scrambler has over 120 genuine accessories available from Triumph, ensuring the Streett Scrambler can bring even more off-road focus, style, or everyday usability, and there are now even luggage options, too.
2019 Triumph Street Scrambler
The off-road accessories include adjustable piggy back FOX rear shocks with threaded preload adjustment and 24 position compression damping, high level front mudguard, black nylon headlight grill with a pressed steel matt black bezel, and a forged and machined aluminium handlebar brace in a black anodised finish (fitted with a stylish black or brown vinyl bar pad embroidered with the Triumph logo).
2019 Triumph Street Scrambler
The accessories range also includes slip on Vance & Hines single exit silencers with carbon fibre end cap and a traditional scrambler twin bench seat. There is a range of luggage or waxed cotton panniers. To make customising easier, the brand has also created an inspiration kit to use as the starting point for riders to design their own Street Scrambler custom, or to have fitted as a complete set – the Urban Tracker kit.
2019 Triumph Street Scrambler
The Urban Tracker kit is designed to appeal to those after a practical touring approach and includes the following accessories:
25 litre rugged pannier and mounting kit
Slip on Vance & Hines silencer
CNC machined black oil filler cap
Black handlebar brace
Number board kit
Black ribbed bench seat
Black dresser bar kit
Headlight grille and bezel
High level front mudguard
Sump guard kit
Availability of certain accessories may be governed by local market legislation.
Ride by wire, Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection
Exhaust
Brushed 2 into 2 exhaust system with twin high-level brushed silencers
Final drive
O ring chain
Clutch
Wet, multi-plate assist clutch, cable operated
Gearbox
5-speed
Frame
Tubular steel twin cradle
Swingarm
Twin-sided, steel fabrication
Front Wheel
Spoked steel rims, 19 x 2.75in
Rear Wheel
Spoked steel rims, 17 x 4.25in
Front Tyre
100/90 R19
Rear Tyre
150/70 R17
Front Suspension
KYB 41mm forks with cartridge damping, 120mm travel
Rear Suspension
KYB twin shocks with adjustable preload, 120mm rear wheel travel
Front Brake
Single 310mm disc, Brembo 4-piston fixed caliper, ABS
Rear Brake
Single 255mm disc, Nissin 2-piston floating caliper, ABS
Length
2,125 mm
Width (Handlebars)
835 mm
Height Without Mirrors
1,180 mm
Seat Height
790 mm
Wheelbase
1,445 mm
Rake
25.6 º
Trail
109 mm
Dry Weight
198 Kg
Fuel Tank Capacity
12 L
Instruments
LCD multi-functional instrument pack with analogue speedometer, engine rpm, odometer, gear position indicator, fuel gauge, range to empty indication, service indicator, clock, 2x trip, average & current fuel consumption display, traction control status display, Heated grip ready – controlled by a handlebar mounted scroll button.
Up to $1000 off Pioneer 700-2 & Pioneer 1000-3 models
Until December 31st Honda are offering a range of savings* on selected Honda SXSs. Those after a compact SXS will enjoy $500 off the Pioneer 500; with an all gear transmission – no belts, automatic drive with paddle shift as well as 2WD/4WD and PGM-FI.
Honda’s Pioneer 500 is now available with $500 off
For those after something a little bigger, the Pioneer 700-2 has $1000 off and is Honda’s mid-range machine developed for Australian conditions. With electric power steering and fully automatic transmission, a manual mode that can be activated via a dash-mounted toggle switch, making the Pioneer 700 a ‘fair dinkum’ work horse. The auto transmission is all-gear so no belts that slip, break or burn out. Paddle shifters can be used to change gears while in manual mode or to override shift points on the fly while in automatic mode.
The Pioneer 700-2 has $1000 off until the end of December
The Pioneer 1000-3 is also in on the action, with $1000 off, featuring a purpose built 999cc parallel twin engine, with beltless transmissions for optimum durability and low maintenance. An extremely versatile SXS, with power steering and an automatic Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) as well as 2WD/4WD. The versatile Dual Clutch Transmission System (DCT) offers the performance and flexibility of a manual transmission with the convenience of an automatic.
The Pioneer 1000-3 also has a winch-ready wiring harness, a new memory function that retains the last transmission mode after engaging reverse and thick seat foam for increased comfort. With a big towing capacity, tilt adjustable electric power steering and reduced noise level, the Pioneer 1000 is Honda’s premium offering in the SXS market.
Honda’s premium Pioneer 1000-3 also has $1000 off until Dec 31, 2018
All Honda Pioneers offers a seat belt interlock system, which prompts drivers to wear their seat belt when operating the machine, and if the seatbelt is not engaged then the vehicle’s speed is limited.
The Honda Pioneer range also boasts a three year warranty period, so make the most of these savings and visit your nearest Honda Dealer, ring 1 300 1 HONDA or go to www.hondamotorcycles.com.au
The Fine Print
*$500 dollars off when purchasing a new Pioneer 500. $1000 dollars off when purchasing a new Pioneer 1000-3, Pioneer700-2. Not redeemable in store and are not redeemable for cash, dollars off include GST. Available between 1 November and 31 December 2018. Only at participating Honda Dealers. Accessories shown not included. Overseas models shown.
Justin Brayton wins Australian Supercross Championship
The fourth instalment of the Monster Energy AUS-X Open Sydney has concluded in front of a sell-out crowd, with current World Champion Jason Anderson taking the win in all three final heat races.
The American dominated the first two races and eventually won the third and final race after Aussie hero Chad Reed was stripped of his win due to a penalty of five-position being handed to the Aussie legend for using the Shannons Shortcut Lane a second time.
Chad Reed was penalised five positions in the third final
Jason Anderson
“To get the win down here in Sydney means a lot – last season we weren’t in the shape we are this year, so it’s a good place to be. This event is so rad with a really cool vibe and super chill, so I definitely hope I’m invited back in years to come,” commented Anderson.
Scotland’s Dean Wilson made a successful return to racing in position two, with Gold Coaster Dan Reardon putting in a solid ride for position three to finalise the podium at the 2018 Monster Energy AUS-X Open Sydney.
SX1 Overall Jason Anderon 75 Dean Wilson 62 Daniel Reardon 60
Both domestic class champions were crowned under the bright lights of Qudos Bank Arena on Saturday night. Each championship was a hard-fought affair this year, with both coming down to the very final race putting immense stress on the riders.
Honda 1-2 in Australian Supercross Championship
The Australian Supercross Championship was decided in Sydney, with American Justin Brayton wrapping up his third consecutive championship. Brayton was followed home in P2 by teammate Brett Metcalfe, with third place going to Reardon.
Justin Brayton
“I’m stoked to win this championship,” commented Brayton. “I was sick for the majority of the event, so to wrap up the championship really feels unbelievable. I’m wrapped for the Penrite Honda Team too, with my teammate Brett Metcalfe finishing second.”
Justin Brayton
AUS-X Open Results
SX1 Final 1
Jason Anderson
Justin Brayton +3.724
Dean Wilson +7.364
Dan Reardon +11.788
Luke Clout +11.887
Brett Metcalfe +13.134
Chad Reed +20.359
Jace Owen +25.250
Lawson Bopping +28.480
Dylan Long +30.505
SX1 Final 2
Jason Anderson
Dan Reardon +3.353
Dean Wilson +4.015
Chad Reed +8.670
Brett Metcalfe +14.420
Justin Brayton +16.270
Luke Clout +19.227
Lawson Bopping +23.333
Jace Owen +23.776
Dylan Long +25.272
SX1 Final 3
Jason Anderson
Dean Wilson +2.014
Dan Reardon +9.058
Dylan Long +14.071
Justin Brayton +18.705
Chad Reed -2.195 (penalised 5 positions)
Jace Owen +21.064
Brett Metcalfe +22.203
Luke Clout +36.894
Robbie Marshall +1 lap
SX1 Overall
Jason Anderon 75
Dean Wilson 62
Daniel Reardon 60
Justin Brayton 53
Chad Reed 47
Brett Metcalfe 44
Luke Clout 42
Dylan Long 40
Jace Owen 39
Lawson Bopping 35
Final SX1 Championship Points
Justin Brayton 115
Brett Metcalfe 106
Dan Reardon 90
Jace Owen 84
Dylan Long 77
Luke Clout 72
Robbie Marshall 57
Lawson Bopping 53
Jesse Dobson 41
Nicholas Sutherland 39
Jay Wilson SX2 Champion
Yamaha’s Jay Wilson completed the ultimate comeback to the sport tonight in Sydney, with the New South Welshman coming back from the brink of retirement just one year ago, to claim the coveted SX2 Championship.
Wilson secured the title in dramatic fashion, as he only just qualified for the main event in the final transfer position.
The chaos continued to unfold, with Wilson’s poor qualifying position giving him the very last gate pick, and subsequently, he didn’t get off the line well in any of the three races.
Despite the drama, tears flowed at the conclusion of Main Event number three, as Wilson was crowned Champion.
Championship aside, the race for the AUS-X Open Overall in SX2 was one to remember, with America’s Cameron McAdoo finishing the night on the top step of the podium due to an incredible pace.
In position two was 2017 Champion Jackson Richardson, and DPH Motorsports Hayden Mellross in third.
SX2 Final 1
Jy Roberts
Cameron McAdoo +0.837
Dylan Wills +2.506
Jacob Hayes +3.404
Hayden Mellross +4.526
SX2 Final 2
Jackson Richardson
Cameron McAdoo +3.821
Hayden Mellross +5.505
Dylan Wills +7.762
Jay Wilson +8.879
SX2 Final 3
Jackson Richardson
Cameron McAdoo +0.534
Hayden Mellross +1.435
Josh Osby +2.681
Jacob Hayes +3.510
SX2 Overall
Cameron McAdoo 66
Jackson Richardson 65
Hayden Mellross 56
Dylan Wills 53
Jacob Hayes 45
Jay Wilson 43
Josh Osby 42
Aaron Tanti 39
Tomas Ravenhorst 37
Kaleb Barham 36
SX2 Final Championship Points
Jay Wilson 103
Hayden Mellross 97
Jacob Hayes 91
Wilson Todd 75
Jackson Richardson 74
Josh Osby 68
Aaron Tanti 62
Dakota Alix 61
Dylan Wills 60
Bradley Taft 50
Two-Stroke Cup
The two-stroke cup class was taken out by KTM’s Ryan Marmont, as the age-old rivalry between Craig Anderson and Danny Ham added another chapter in Sydney. The two spent most of the race dueling with each other for the final place before Ham crashed into a wall in a desperate pass attempt on the final lap.
Best Whip
Victorian Ace Cheyne Boyd claimed the coveted Best Whip competition, finishing ahead of 2017 Champion – Corey Creed, and Honda rider Steve Mini.
International Showdown
In the Boost Mobile International Showdown Chad Reed lead team Australia to the win over the Americans.
Best Trick competition
Finally, in the Monster Energy Best Trick competition Blake ‘Bilko’ Williams took the spoils with a 360 splits and a cliffhanger backflip to claim the trophy.
The S-X Open Oceania Championship now rolls onto New Zealand in two weeks time, with more champions set to be crowned inside Mt Smart Stadium for the Monster Energy S-X Open Auckland on November 24.
Motorcycle racing welcomes a new era with the launch of the MotoE Championship (officially the FIM Enel MotoE World Cup) in 2019 and the LCR Team is pleased to announce its participation in the series with Randy De Puniet and Niccolò Canepa as official riders for the LCR E-Team.
Lucio Cecchinello (LCR Team Principal)
“This project is a new challenge in my career and I am very proud to be part of it with the brand-new LCR E-Team because this new series represents a part of racing’s future. I am also very happy to be back working with my former Chief Technician, Paolo Cordioli (who helped me to set up the LCR Team in 1996) and also Luciano and Thomas Betti, both former international champions of previous electric bike competitions. When Randy (De Puniet) accepted our proposal to be part of this new project, I was very happy because he lined up for the LCR Team for five years in the past (2003/2004 in the 250cc class and 2008/2009/2010 in the MotoGP class) achieving amazing results (18 times on the podium, including 4 victories in LCR colours). Niccolò has a very impressive career record also, including the 2007 Superstock World Title and the 2016/2017 FIM World Endurance Title, and is keen to start this new challenge aboard the MotoE”.
The new championship, which will run alongside MotoGP, will feature low-noise, zero-emission motorcycles that are powered by renewable energy sources.
The inaugural calendar consists of five rounds that will take place during MotoGP events (Jerez de la Frontera, Le Mans, Sachsenring, Spielberg and Misano) and a first test on November 23-25 at Jerez.
The LCR E-Team is ready embrace the new challenge with a strong line-up that features highly-respected technical staff, talented former LCR rider De Puniet and the 2017 Endurance Champion, Canepa.
Randy De Puniet
“Of course I am very happy to be part of the first MotoE Championship and for me it is even better because I return to the LCR Team where I raced for 5 years in my MotoGP career. I had my best racing memories with this team so it’s amazing to be back with Lucio and his squad. Regarding MotoE World Cup, everything will be new for everybody, but thanks to this test in November in Jerez we will gather more information on the bike and the riding style. I think it’s going to be fun with 18 identical bikes using the same tyres, so I cannot wait to start this new challenge”.
Randy De Puniet
Niccolò Canepa
“I am very happy to be part of this new project in its debut season and, most of all, doing it in LCR colours. I think this is one of the most high-level teams in the paddock and I have a very good relationship with Lucio. Now I can’t wait to try this bike for the first time in Jerez. I am actually training a lot to get ready for the start of the season and this first test in November will give us important information on the bike configuration. Lucio has put together a very professional crew and, from my side, I will do my best to reward the team with good results”.
Niccolò Canepa – GeeBee Image
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