Motorcycle News, News

2020 Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX | First Look Review

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2020 Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX
2020 Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX. Images courtesy Kawasaki.

Kawasaki’s Ninja 1000 sport tourer is getting a host of updates for 2020, enough in fact that it’s been given a new (sort of) name: the Ninja 1000SX. When we last tested it back in 2017 (read the review here), we were impressed with the tour-ready Ninja’s comfort and handling, so we’re looking forward to getting a ride on this updated model.

The Ninja 1000 already included modern electronic rider aids such as an IMU-based KTRC traction control system, ABS and power modes. But for 2020 the Ninja 1000SX also gets an electronic throttle, a.k.a. throttle-by-wire, cruise control and new integrated riding modes — Sport, Road, Rain or Rider (manual) — which link the KTRC and power modes for easy on-the-fly adjustments.

2020 Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX
New electronic throttle also enables the addition of cruise control. All functions on the new TFT display are also accessible via the switchgear.

It also comes equipped with an up and down quickshifter (KQS) as standard, the latest Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22 tires, a revised windscreen with three rather than two positions, a light restyle and a new TFT display with two modes (one for touring and one for sport riding) and Bluetooth smartphone connectivity via Kawasaki’s Rideology app.

Kawasaki also says it’s tweaked the potent engine with revised cam profiles for quieter operation, shorter intake funnels for cylinders 1 and 4 to help reduce emissions and a new exhaust system with a single right-side muffler rather than the previous dual-sided design, reducing the Ninja 1000SX’s weight by a claimed 4.5 pounds. Suspension also received a tweak in the form of a new low-speed slit on the fork’s damping pistons for smoother fork action.

2020 Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX
The 2020 Ninja 1000SX cuts a more svelte profile thanks to the switch to a single muffler.

Best of all, the 2020 Ninja 1000SX is priced just $200 more than last year’s model, coming in at $12,399. It’s available in one color option: Metallic Graphite Gray/Metallic Diablo Black. Kawasaki accessory 28-liter quick-release bags are an $899.95 option.

Keep scrolling for more photos….

2020 Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX
Hard 28-liter saddlebags start at $899.95.
2020 Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX
New TFT display in sport mode, showing lean angle.
2020 Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX
This graphic shows the change in the intake funnels for cylinders 1 and 4.
2020 Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX
Cockpit of the 2020 Ninja 1000SX. Tall clip-ons haven’t changed, but the TFT display and new three-position adjustable windscreen are new.

Source: RiderMagazine.com

Motorcycle News, News

2020 Kawasaki Z650 and Z900 | First Look Review

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2020 Kawasaki Z900 in Candy Plasma Blue/Metallic Matte Fusion Silver
2020 Kawasaki Z900 in Candy Plasma Blue/Metallic Matte Fusion Silver. Images courtesy Kawasaki.

Kawasaki is updating its Z650 and Z900 naked sport bikes for 2020, with the Z900 receiving the most significant changes that bring it up-to-date and closer to its competition technology-wise.

The Z900, which was first launched back in 2017, impressed us from the start with its smooth, tractable power and rider-friendly character, but we dinged it for its lack of electronic rider aids when compared with the competition. (Read our comparison shoot-out review of the 2017 Z900 and the Yamaha FZ-09 here.) Kawasaki has addressed that complaint for 2020, giving the Z900 updated electronics, plus some tweaks to the frame and suspension and a light facelift.

Z900 switchgear
Ride and power modes are new for the 2020 Z900.

Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC) includes three modes: Modes 1 and 2 control ignition timing to prevent wheel slippage in sport riding conditions, while Mode 3 has higher sensitivity and controls ignition timing, fuel and air for ultra-smooth operation. Two power modes operate independently, with full and low (approximately 55% of full with a milder throttle response) options.

Additionally, the Z900 also offers Integrated Riding Modes that link the KTRC and power modes for quick and easy adjustment to suit a giving riding situation. There are four modes, Sport, Road, Rain and Rider (manual).

2020 Z900 TFT display
The 2020 Z900 will be equipped with a 4.3-inch TFT display that incorporates Bluetooth smartphone connection via the Rideology app.

Other changes for 2020 include a new 4.3-inch TFT instrument that incorporates Bluetooth smartphone connection via Kawasaki’s Rideology app, a revised frame with added strength in the swingarm pivot area, updated suspension settings, slightly revised styling that includes an LED headlight and new Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 tires.

The 2020 Kawasaki Z900 will be available in Metallic Spark Black/Metallic Flat Spark Black and Candy Plasma Blue/Metallic Matte Fusion Silver for $8,999 ($9,299 for ABS version).

2020 Kawasaki Z900 in Metallic Spark Black/Metallic Flat Spark Black
2020 Kawasaki Z900 in Metallic Spark Black/Metallic Flat Spark Black.

Meanwhile, the 2020 Z650 gets a light style refresh that includes an LED headlight, TFT display with Rideology app connectivity and new Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 tires. It will be available in Metallic Spark Black and Metallic Spark Black/Metallic Flat Spark Black starting at $7,249 ($7,649 for ABS version).

2020 Kawasaki Z650 in Metallic Spark Black.
2020 Kawasaki Z650 in Metallic Spark Black.
2020 Kawasaki Z650 in Metallic Spark Black.
2020 Kawasaki Z650 in Metallic Spark Black/Metallic Flat Spark Black.
Z650 TFT display
The 2020 Z650 will be equipped with a TFT display that includes Bluetooth smartphone connectivity via the Rideology app.

Source: RiderMagazine.com

News

Aesthetic Upgrades For Husvarna’s 701 Line

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Husqvarna’s Vitpilen 701 and Svartpilen 701 share quite a few similarities, and since coming to market in 2018 and 2019, respectively, have lived up to the hype generated by their unique looks. Since both are still relatively new to the market, it comes as no surprise that both get minor updates for the 2020 model year.

2020 Vitpilen 701

One of the best single-cylinder road bikes available.
One of the best single-cylinder road bikes available.Husqvarna

The Vitpilen 701 gets a set of CNC-machined footrests along with a new blue and white color scheme. There’s also a pair of sharp-looking 17-inch spoked wheels on the new edition and a new pillion seat cover.

The 692cc single has proven to be a lot of fun in the saddle, with instant acceleration that pulls all the way to redline. The chromoly steel trellis frame and WP suspension work together in harmony to provide a firm, yet forgiving ride. The fit and finish were a high point during our first encounter with the machine, and the new colorway looks quite striking compared to the previous silver and black.

2020 Svartpilen 701

The Vitpilen 701 has helped Husqvarna find success in the on-road market.
The Vitpilen 701 has helped Husqvarna find success in the on-road market.Husqvarna

Similarly, the Svartpilen 701 gets new CNC-machined footrests, a fresh coat of paint, and new 18-inch front and 17-inch rear spoked wheels.

Altered ergos and styling give the Svartpilen 701 its own feel and character, despite sharing much of its internal construction with the Vitpilen 701. Our tester recently described it as making “a strong case as the best single-cylinder streetbike currently in production”, so we forgive Husqvarna for leaving well enough alone for the time being. Plus, the bronze and black 2020 colorway is quite fetching.

2020 Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 Specifications

2020 Husqvarna Svartpilen 701 Specifications

The Svartpilen 701 returns with a new colorway and updated footrests in 2020.
The Svartpilen 701 returns with a new colorway and updated footrests in 2020.Husqvarna
The bronze and black look sharp.
The bronze and black look sharp.Husqvarna
A high level of fit and finish combines with a dialed mechanical package.
A high level of fit and finish combines with a dialed mechanical package.Husqvarna
The blue and white colorway is a nice update.
The blue and white colorway is a nice update.Husqvarna
Spoked wheels come standard on the Vitpilen 701.
Spoked wheels come standard on the Vitpilen 701.Husqvarna
No need for any big updates in 2020.
No need for any big updates in 2020.Husqvarna
Still the futuristic café we fell in love with.
Still the futuristic café we fell in love with.Husqvarna

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

News

Fluid Funnels Needed In Every Garage

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Keep your garage floor free of oil stains with the help of any of these funnels.
Keep your garage floor free of oil stains with the help of any of these funnels.Kenny Luo

It’s too easy to spill oil all over the garage floor when performing routine motorcycle maintenance. That’s why it’s worth investing in a few good funnels to get the job done cleanly and professionally. There are plenty of funnel options out there, but here are a few we found that could help you get the job done whether you are the penny pincher, the funnel collector, Harley-specific tinkerer, or the professional shop mechanic.

Nopro Plastic Funnel (Set of 3)

Three funnels are included in the Nopro plastic funnel set.
Three funnels are included in the Nopro plastic funnel set.Amazon

For most non-professional, DIYers, these funnels make it easy to get fresh oil into the vehicle simply and effectively. Different mouth/stem sizes like 4 inches/0.5 inch, 3.5 inches/0.4 inch, and 2.5 inches/0.3 inch are included in this bundle, so no matter the job, big or small, you can take it on with the large-, medium-, or small-sized funnels. For storing, the funnels can be nested together or one can use the loops on the side to hang them in the garage.

WirthCo 10-Piece Funnel Assortment

The more funnels the merrier. With this 10-piece set from WirthCo you will have the funnel you need for any application.
The more funnels the merrier. With this 10-piece set from WirthCo you will have the funnel you need for any application.Amazon

No matter the job, there is bound to be a funnel in this 10-piece set from WirthCo that will help you keep a clean shop. This set includes the most popular funnel sizes and designs including: one 2-quart funnel, one 3-pack funnel set, two clip-on spouts, two flex spouts, one 1-quart flex funnel, and one capped funnel. You will always have the funnel you need if you have this set close to your toolbox.

MoKo Primary Case, Crankcase, And Oil Filter Funnels

The ABS material of the Moko funnels is impact resistant, heat resistant, and flame retardant.
The ABS material of the Moko funnels is impact resistant, heat resistant, and flame retardant.Amazon

Bar and Shield riders can maintain their Harley-Davidsons like the pros with this three-piece set from MoKo. Because the maintenance doesn’t end when you drain the oil, the set includes a 9-inch crankcase fill funnel, a primary case oil fill funnel, and a drip-free oil filter funnel. These are made from high-quality ABS plastic that is sturdy and corrosion resistant. While the transmission crankcase fill funnel can work on Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Yamaha models as well. The primary case oil fill funnel is compatible with 1999–2000 Evolution 1340, 1999–2017 Dyna, 1999–2017 Softail, and 1999–2015 touring and trike Harley models. The drip-free oil filter funnel is also limited to 2004–later Sportster XL, 2008–2013 XR, 1999–2017 Dyna, 1999–2016 touring, and 2009–2016 trike models.

Arksen 20-Gallon Portable Oil Waste Tank And Funnel

Maneuver Arksen’s 20-gallon steel waste tank and funnel around with the use of the smooth-roller wheels and casters.
Maneuver Arksen’s 20-gallon steel waste tank and funnel around with the use of the smooth-roller wheels and casters.Amazon

While this funnel/tank combo may require a lift to be of any use, this is still a great all-in-one option for oil changes. You can either extract the waste using the venturi-vacuum extracting system or simply use gravity. Situated on two 3-inch swivel casters on the front and two 6-inch rear wheels you can move the tank around your garage with ease. The 15-inch-diameter funnel will be sure to catch any oil dripping from the sump and you can adjust its height between 45 inches up to 75.5 inches for vehicles on lifts.

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

Motorcycle News, News

Common reasons for bike roadworthy failures

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You can avoid failing your motorcycle roadworthy if you pay attention to some of the most common failures.

Riders in Australia have varied conditions for roadworthies.

In Queensland, you only need one when you sell your vehicle. In some other states you need regular roadworthy certificates that depend on the age of your bike.

The three most common reasons for breakdowns in Australia are flat tyres and batteries and simply running out of fuel, according to roadside assistance services.Readers offered 15% roadside assist discount

Get a 15% discount on your roadside assist

So it is also important to check your tyres and battery when getting your regular or once-off roadworthy check.

Having an empty tank won’t fail you on your roadworthy!

Roadworthy stats

UK second-hand bike sales website WeWantYourMotorbike delved into the statistics on why motorcycles fail their annual test of vehicle safety, roadworthiness and exhaust emissions required for most vehicles over three years old.

They found some interesting statistics, but the one that caught our eye shows how motorcyclists look after their bikes more than drivers look after their cars.

Only 16.9% of motorbikes fail their initial MOT tests compared with 33.6% of cars and 42.2% for goods vehicles.

We are certain the same would apply around the world. Riders tend to look after their bikes.

However, when they do fail, the stats show it could easily have been fixed beforehand.

The failure could also have dire safety consequences for the rider.

The Most Common Reasons For UK MOT Failure (% of failures)

Light & reflectors 40.21%
Brakes 16.83%
Structure & attachments 10.77%
Tyres 9.95%
Suspension 8.85%
Steering 5.5%
Vehicle ID  4.09%
Horn 2.86%
Wheels 0.93%

The Most Common Dangerous Defects (% of failures deemed dangerous)

Tyres 43.18%
Brakes 26.88%
Structure & attachments 12.02%
Lights & reflectors 6.02%
Steering 5.96%
Suspension 3.89%
Wheels 2.05%
Vehicle ID 0%
Horn 0%

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Competition, Motocross, News

Championship-winning team DPH Motorsport in liquidation

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News 8 Nov 2019

Championship-winning team DPH Motorsport in liquidation

Section: Competition

MX Nationals and AUS Supercross team’s future cast into doubt.

Image: Foremost Media.

Double current Australian Motocross Championship-winning team DPH Motorsport has been ordered into liquidation just months after capturing the 2019 MX Nationals titles with Todd Waters in MX1 and Wilson Todd in MX2.

Public records indicate that the court order follows after a dispute with Yamaha Motor Australia, which was the manufacturer DPH Motorsport competed with prior to picking up official Husqvarna Motorcycles support at the beginning of last year.

While information remains limited, notes published publicly by the Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC) have confirmed that liquidation status was appointed on 22 October 2019 by an order of the Supreme Court of New South Wales.

Reports of DPH Motorsport being in financial trouble had been widespread through the MX Nationals season, however, despite rumours that the team had folded mid-season, DPH Motorsport went on to complete all 10 rounds and deliver the elusive dual championship victories with Waters and Todd.

The team has been in attendance at the opening two rounds of the Australian Supercross Championship with both riders, although injuries sustained by MX2 World Championship-bound Todd have seen him sidelined for the season-remainder.

Despite maintaining close relations with DPH, Waters will continue in AUS Supercross this weekend at Wollongong riding a privately-entered Husqvarna FC 450 in SX1 with direct support from Husqvarna Motorcycles. It’s understood that the contract between Husqvarna Motorcycles and DPH Motorsport was made void by the company operating the team being in liquidation.

When contacted during the past week, DPH Motorsport team owner Dale Hocking acknowledged the liquidation order, but was unwilling to provide further detail on the matter. Yamaha Motor Australia representatives also chose not to make comment.


Source: MotoOnline.com.au

Competition, Motocross, News

American Miller to join Raceline KTM for supercross remainder

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News 8 Nov 2019

American Miller to join Raceline KTM for supercross remainder

Section: Competition

Factory-supported KTM squad drafts in SX1 rider for final three rounds.

Image: Foremost Media.

The Raceline KTM Thor team will revert to a three-rider structure in Saturday night’s third stop of the 2019 Australian Supercross Championship when American Henry Miller joins the team as its SX1 entry from the Wollongong round.

Miller, 22, is a privateer in the US and scored a season-best of 11th position in the Monster Energy AMA Supercross series at Indianapolis riding 250SX East. A 16th-place finish at the Las Vegas finals in 450SX was also a strong result.

“I’m very excited to be racing here in Australia and I want to thank the Raceline KTM Thor Team for this amazing opportunity,” Miller said. “I have always heard good things about the series down under and I jumped at the chance to race over here when I received the call from the team.

“Coming into the series at round three will not be easy, with my competition already into the swing of things, but I’m confident in my skills and feel very at home on the KTM 450 SX-F. We tested my race bike today and everything feels great – I can’t wait to go racing at Wollongong.”

Miller’s arrival comes after Raceline regular Hayden Mellross was injured during the MX Nationals and his initial replacement, Justin Rodbell, was forced to return home to America due to visa issues. The team has now confirmed the signing of another US rider in Miller.

“We are thrilled to have Henry signed for the remainder of the season,” explained Raceline KTM team manager Chris Woods. “Although he may be relatively unknown here in Australia, he has shown fantastic speed and results as a privateer in the AMA championships. I’m confident he will represent our team partners well and turn some heads with his results.”


Source: MotoOnline.com.au

Motorcycle News, News

How BMW S 1000 XR meets emissions targets

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Many of the upgraded models shown at the EICMA motorcycle show are lighter, mainly to meet the tougher Euro5 emissions regulations which come into force next year.

One example is the BMW S 1000 XR which largely meets the emissions targets by shaving 10kg off the total weight.

However, they say they also manage to make the bike “faster” with a more linear torque.

Emissions ‘cheat’?BMW S 1000 XR emissions

Apart from the diet, the transmission has also been adjusted with higher rations in fourth, fifth, and sixth gears. That is what makes it “faster” in top gear.

The higher gearing also helps the bike meet the tough regulations which prescribe a certain cycle of revs, gears and speeds to comply with the standard emissions test.

It’s probably a bit of a cheat that everyone is doing, but BMW say it makes it more ridable and reduces noise.

Not sure how this equates to ride ability. Will sixth gear now be only suitable for the German autobahns? Anyway, at those speeds, wind noise is louder than engine and exhaust noise.

BMW S 1000 XR emissions

At least the 999cc inline four-cylinder engine now has a more linear torque curve which should mean most of those top gears are usable.

However, engine output remains at 121kW (165hp) at 11,000rpm and peak torque of 114Nm at 9250 rpm.

At least BMW has admitted the changes.

Many others make similar gear ratio adjustments but never advise customers. They only find out if they check the ratios in the tech specs or have a test ride.

Features

BMW S 1000 XR emissions

BMW Motorrad Australia spokesman Nick Raman says the S 1000 XR will arrive in June or early July with pricing announced closer to that date.

Other updates include standard LED lighting, cornering lights, four rider modes, full-colour TFT instruments, electronic suspension adjustment, hill hold control and dynamic brake control which reduces drive torque during braking to prevent rear wheel lockup.

Weight savings come from the 19% lighter double-sided swingarm, 5% lighter engine, and lighter exhaust and frame.

BMW says the ergos have been updated for more wind protection and comfort.

It also gets the RR’s “Flex Frame” where the engine takes on more of the load-bearing function for better agility.

Options include shift assist for clutchless up/down shifts, electronic cruise control, and daytime running lights.

It will be available in Ice Grey and Racing Red/White Aluminium.

2020 BMW S 1000 XRBMW S 1000 XR emissions

  • Engine: 999cc, DOHC Inline-4
  • Bore x stroke: 80mm x 49.7mm
  • Power: 121kW @ 11,500 rpm
  • Torque: 114Nm @ 9250rpm
  • Compression: 12.0:1
  • Transmission: Six-speed, chain
  • Frame: Aluminium bridge-type w/ load-bearing engine
  • Suspension: Fully adjustable 46mm fork; spring-preload and rebound-damping adjustable shock
  • Wheels: 3.50 x 17; 6 x 17 cast aluminium
  • Tyres: 120/70 x 17; 190/55 x 17
  • Brakes: 320mm floating discs w/ fixed four-piston calipers; 265mm disc w/ floating dual-piston caliper, ABS
  • Wheelbase: 1549mm
  • Rake: 25.5 degrees
  • Trail: 4.6 inches
  • Seat: 840mm
  • Fuel capacity: 19.6L
  • Economy: 5.3L/100km
  • Wet weight: 226kg

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

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