2021 KTM 890 Adventure R | Long-Term Ride Review

2021 KTM 890 Adventure R
The 890 Adventure R has proven to be highly capable on- and off-road. Photo by Kevin Wing.

RELATED: 2021 KTM 890 Adventure R | (Off) Road Test Review

Mileage: 3,314
Base Price: $14,199 (2021); $14,599 (2022)
Price as Tested: $14,749 (Tech Pack)
Accessories: $114.95

After years of making primarily hard-edged, off-road-oriented adventure bikes, KTM balanced the on-/off-road scales when it introduced the 1190 Adventure for 2014. It had a more refined – and more powerful – V-Twin, and although its 19-inch front/17-inch rear wheels were spoked, they were shod with tubeless, touring-friendly 90/10 adventure tires.

2021 KTM 890 Adventure R
The KTM’s unique tank design keeps fuel weight down low. Photo by Kevin Wing.

The 1190 Adventure also fully embraced the then-nascent trend in electronic rider aids, becoming the first production motorcycle to offer lean-angle-sensitive ABS. It was also equipped with throttle-by-wire, ride modes, multi-stage traction control, an off-road ABS mode, electronically controlled suspension, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

In the years that followed, KTM filled out its Adventure range with the 1290 Super Adventure (followed by R, S, and T variants), 1090 Adventure R, 790 Adventure (standard and R variants, which won Rider’s 2019 Motorcycle of the Year award), and 390 Adventure. In 2020, the 790 evolved into the 890, and we tested the 890 Adventure R you see here in 2021.

2021 KTM 890 Adventure R windshield
The short windscreen parts airflow smoothly but is not adjustable. Handguards are standard. Photo by Kevin Wing.

Collectively, Rider staffers and contributors have put tens of thousands of miles on all the various KTM Adventure models, and the 890 sits right in the sweet spot – not as big, heavy, powerful, or expensive as the 1290 Super Adventure, nor as small and touring-limited as the 390 Adventure. (The 1090 and 1190 were dropped as KTM dialed in its small/medium/large model offerings.) It also features the latest in electronics that allow riders to alter the bike’s performance and personality with the push of a few buttons.

Our 2021 890 Adventure R test bike arrived with just 15 miles on the odometer, and over the course of nine months we logged 3,300 miles. We burned 71 gallons of premium fuel, averaging 46.4 mpg and roughly 246 miles of range from the 5.3-gallon tank.

2021 KTM 890 Adventure R wheel
Spoked wheels are shod with tubeless Continental TKC80 knobbies. Photo by Kevin Wing.

The 890 has a horseshoe-shaped fuel tank, with a filler on top and two sections that run down either side of the engine and end in bulbous pods, as first seen on the 790 Adventure. The design, though not especially attractive, offers several advantages: The upper tank area is narrow between the knees during stand-up riding; fuel weight is mostly down low, which contributes to better handling; and the lower pods provide some lower-leg and crash protection. Because of the tank’s unusual shape, however, it’s difficult to get accurate readings of remaining fuel, and only the final 50% of tank capacity is shown on the fuel gauge. There’s a fuel range reading on the 890’s TFT display, but it wasn’t even remotely accurate during our test.

2021 KTM 890 Adventure R
This Range Rover’s owner should have bought a KTM.

With its short windscreen, high front fender, rally-style seat, and Continental TKC80 tires (rated for 40% road/60% off-road), the 890 Adventure R is clearly designed for heavy off-road use. On rough dirt roads and technical trails, the 890-R was well-balanced, forgiving, and exciting, especially in the optional Rally mode that’s part of the Tech Pack. Out of our testing miles, however, only about 10% were off-road. We spent most of our time flogging the 890-R on paved backroads, desolate highways, freeways, and city streets. While the standard 890 Adventure would have provided more comfort and wind protection, the 890-R never felt like a fish out of water. That sort of versatility is what makes ADV bikes such an attractive proposition.

2021 KTM 890 Adventure R
A Nelson-Rigg Sahara Dry Duffle Bag fits perfectly on the rear rack. Photo by the author.

We strapped on a Nelson-Rigg Sahara Dry Duffle ($114.95; nelsonrigg.com) for longer trips, but we didn’t add any other accessories. Other than a break-in service, maintenance consisted of checking the air in the tires and cleaning/lubing the chain, though the rear TKC80 was pretty well shagged by the time we handed back the keys.

KTM announced that the 890 Adventure ($13,399) and 890 Adventure R ($14,599) will return unchanged for 2022.

The post 2021 KTM 890 Adventure R | Long-Term Ride Review first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

Indian Motorcycles Announces King of the Baggers Factory Race Team

Indian Motorcycles pulls the wraps off its six-pointed attack of the MotoAmerica King of the Baggers series.

Begin Press Release: 


INDIAN MOTORCYCLE RACING ANNOUNCES FACTORY RACE TEAM, PRIVATEERS & CONTINGENCY FOR 2022 KING OF THE BAGGERS SERIES

  • Tyler O’Hara & Jeremy McWilliams to Pilot S&S Indian Challengers as Factory Race Team
  • Indian Motorcycle Racing Offering Nearly $40,000 in Privateer Contingency
  • Roland Sands Design® Returns to King of the Baggers with Rider Frankie Garcia; Adds Superbike Veteran Bobby Fong to Pilot Second RSD Indian Challenger
  • Saddlemen Calls Upon Lloyd’z Garage to Support Patricia Fernandez & Cory West; Fernandez Returns On Saddlemen Indian Challenger, While West Rides the Series’ Only Chieftain Bagger

MINNEAPOLIS (MARCH 1, 2022) – Indian Motorcycle, America’s First Motorcycle Company, today announced Tyler O’Hara and Jeremy McWilliams as factory riders aboard two Mission® Foods S&S® Indian Challengers for the 2022 MotoAmerica® King of the Baggers series. In addition, Indian Motorcycle Racing is announcing nearly $40,000 in privateer contingency for the 2022 season. Privateer efforts include two privately backed teams: Roland Sands Design and the Saddlemen, Indian Motorcycle Charlotte & St. Paul powered by Lloyd’z Garage – each team with two riders aboard Indian Motorcycle baggers.

“The inaugural King of the Baggers race in 2020 truly disrupted the motorsports world, and the three-race season in 2021 expanded on that and left fans hungry for more. Now with seven races in 2022, King of the Baggers season is primed to take bagger racing to an entirely new level,” said Gary Gray, Vice President – Racing, Technology and Service for Indian Motorcycle. “These races are dynamic platforms to showcase the performance capabilities of our baggers, and we are proud to expand our efforts with an official factory team and growing roster of talented privateers.”

“We are excited to continue our partnership with Indian Motorcycle Racing,” said Juan Gonzalez, Mission Foods Chief Executive Officer. “They are supporting an amazing group of riders that will provide lots of racing excitement for all King of the Baggers race fans.”

Taking to the grid are six Indian Motorcycle baggers, including two factory rides and four privately backed efforts.

S&S® Cycle: Tyler O’Hara & Jeremy McWilliams

Tyler O’Hara enters his third year piloting the Mission® Foods S&S® Indian Challenger, considered by most as the most formidable challenger to recapture the King of the Baggers title in 2022. After winning the inaugural King of the Baggers title in 2020, O’Hara fell just short in 2021, finishing the points race second overall.

Hailing from Ireland, and making his bagger racing debut, is seasoned road racer Jeremy McWilliams. Piloting the second S&S Indian Challenger factory ride, McWilliams brings a wealth of experience and valuable technical knowledge to the team in the ongoing effort to refine and optimize Indian Challenger setups for each race. A four-times Irish Champion, McWilliams began his professional racing career in 1993 and has competed in a variety of road races, series, and classes – including nine years in MotoGP.

“Jeremy is the ideal addition to our team, bringing significant experience and technical knowledge that will compliment the highly cerebral approach that Tyler O’Hara brings to the team. He’s got an unwavering desire to be the fastest and reach the top of the box each-and-every race,” said Paul Skarie, S&S President. “Having a second bike in the paddock is incredibly valuable, allowing riders to bounce feedback off of each other and help team mechanics optimize setups on race day.”

RSD: Frankie Garcia & Bobby Fong

For the 2022 King of the Baggers season, the RSD team welcomes veteran racer Bobby Fong. Having competed in flat track and Superbike, and winning 2021’s Road America 2, Fong brings a diverse experience to the RSD team. Piloting Steve Delorenzi’s S&S-built RSD Indian Challenger, backed by Sacramento Mile and SDI racing, Fong will ride alongside fan-favorite and ever-popular privateer Frankie Garcia who makes his return to the RSD Indian Challenger after finishing on the podium in third-place finish in 2020 and fourth overall in the 2021 series.

“We’re stoked to be expanding our bagger racing efforts with Bobby and grateful to Steve Delorenzi for commissioning the factory team to build a second Indian Challenger and trusting us to take it racing this season,” said Roland Sands. “Bobby’s an incredibly talented racer who demands a lot of himself and pushes the limits, and that makes him a perfect fit for RSD. He and Frankie go back a long way and will help each other, while also pushing each other.”

Saddlemen & Lloyd’z Garage: Patricia Fernandez & Cory West

Entering its third year of bagger racing, its second with Indian Motorcycle Racing, Saddlemen called upon long-time v-twin performance shop, Lloyd’z Garage, to handle race craft efforts for its two Indian Motorcycle entries. The tandem of Lloyd Greer and Tim Sutherland will be at the helm of race-team management and mechanics, supporting Patricia Fernandez aboard the Saddlemen Indian Challenger, as she returns to the King of the Baggers grid as the only female racer.

Joining Fernandez, and making his Indian Motorcycle privateer debut, is veteran motorcycle racer Cory West. After finishing in the middle of the pack in 2020, and missing the 2021 season, West will pilot the series’ only Indian Motorcycle Chieftain bagger. Unlike the fixed-fairing, liquid-cooled Indian Challenger, the Chieftain features a fork-mounted fairing and an air-cooled, Thunderstroke engine.

“V-Twin performance is in our blood, and we have been salivating over the idea of operating our own privateer effort in King of the Baggers ever since its debut in 2020,” said Lloyd Greer of Lloyd’z Garage. “When Saddlemen approached us, we jumped at the opportunity and feel extremely honored and grateful to assume responsibilities for their bagger racing efforts. Patricia is a badass racer, and we’re excited to see her compete again, while Cory’s diverse racing background and expertise will provide valuable feedback and insight for Patricia and our mechanics.”

In support of its privateer efforts, Indian Motorcycle Racing is offering nearly $40,000 in contingency, including a $10,000 championship payout and $3,000, $1,000, and $500 for first, second, and third-place finishes, respectively.

Sponsors for Indian Motorcycle Racing’s King of the Bagger efforts include Mission® Foods, S&S®, Medallia, Drag Specialties and Parts Unlimited.

For the 2022 season, MotoAmerica® will host seven rounds of King of the Baggers racing, including the season opener at Daytona International Speedway on March 10-12.  For more information on bagger racing, visit MotoAmerica.com.

To learn more about each race team, visit SSCycle.comRolandSands.comSaddlemen.com and LloydzGarage.com. For information about Indian Motorcycle, visit IndianMotorcycle.com, or follow along on FacebookTwitter and Instagram.

The post Indian Motorcycles Announces King of the Baggers Factory Race Team appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

All you need to know about the Pro Draft Qualification Phase

VideoPass allows you to watch every single second of every single sector LIVE and OnDemand. VideoPass offers you unrivalled access to interviews and features as well as every competitive lap at every Grand Prix. VideoPass is also available on the MotoGP™ app for iOS and Android, while you can also watch LIVE or OnDemand content with Roku TV, Apple TV, Android TV or Amazon Fire TV.

More than 45,000 videos dating back to 1992, with a comprehensive back catalogue of MotoGP™ coverage including full races, interviews, summaries, reports and documentaries, are at your disposal – when you want, where you want.

Different camera feeds and OnBoards allow you to choose your preferred viewing experience, and to enjoy the race from so many angles. SIGN UP NOW!

Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here

NBC Sports announces 2022 MotoGP™ telecast schedule

– Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas from Circuit of the Americas on Sunday, April 10 live at 1:30 p.m. ET
– Grand Prix of Finland from KymiRing on Sunday, July 10, at 1 p.m. ET
– San Marino Grand Prix from Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli on Sunday, Sept. 4, at 1:30 p.m. ET
– Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix from Philip Island Circuit on Sunday, Oct 16, at 12:30 p.m. ET
– Grand Prix of Valencia at Circuit Ricardo Tormo on Sunday, Nov. 6, at Noon ET

Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here

Meet the 2022 MotoGP™ rookies

The Rookie of the Year fight looks set to be a corker once again as five stars get set for their maiden premier class voyage

As we get set to see the 2022 MotoGP™ season burst into life under the Lusail International Circuit lights, five rookies are waiting to embark on their maiden premier class voyage.

It’s all about… MotoGP™!

Those five rookies will be hoping they can repeat the feats that eventual Rookie of the Year Jorge Martin (Pramac Racing) and Enea Bastianini (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) did in 2021 – establishing themselves amongst the elite by claiming podiums. Let’s have a look at new faces we’ll be seeing in MotoGP™ this season, starting with the reigning Moto2™ World Champion.

Remy Gardner (Tech3 KTM Factory Racing):

Son of former 500cc World Champion Wayne Gardner and 2021 intermediate class King, Remy Gardner started and finished last season in stellar fashion. In the first nine races, Gardner finished off the podium just once, notching up three victories in that time. This allowed the Australian to go into the summer break with a 31-point lead over rookie wonder teammate Raul Fernandez. In the second half of the season, he took four more podium finishes, including victories at Silverstone and Portimao before finally beating Fernandez to the Moto2™ title by four points after the season finale in Valencia.

Gardner’s pre-season has, unfortunately, been marred by a wrist injury, which has prevented us from seeing his full early potential. However, the Australian has quietly gone about his business and there’s no doubt that a fully fit Gardner will be frighteningly fast and one to watch in 2022.

How is Remy Gardner preparing for life as a MotoGP™ rookie?

Raul Fernandez (Tech3 KTM Factory Racing):

The latest rapid Spaniard comes into MotoGP™ after an astonishing Moto2™ rookie campaign. In a fantastic head-to-head battle with teammate Gardner, KTM had little choice but to promote Fernandez into the Tech3 ranks alongside Gardner, as other factories showed more than a genuine interest in the number 25’s services.

Early issues lead to factory KTMs being outshone by rookie

2022, as expected, has seen Fernandez take to the premier class very well. A heavy crash on Day 2 was, from the outside, the only negative from a strong looking pre-season. Fernandez will be many people’s pick for the Rookie of the Year award after what he showed he was capable of in 2021, and with someone who is oozing confidence, Fernandez’s 2022 season could be a thriller. 

Marco Bezzecchi (Mooney VR46 Racing Team):

Three-time Moto2™ race winner Marco Bezzecchi ultimately saw a 2021 title charge slip away after Gardner and Fernandez produced such strong and unrelenting seasons. But the Italian enters the fray with plenty of promise and excitement surrounding him.

Bezzecchi: “I didn’t expect to be so fast in pre-season”

Seven podiums, including a win at the Styrian GP, and third overall was a cracking season for Bezzecchi last year, who lines up alongside sophomore and close friend Luca Marini in the new Mooney VR46 Racing Team ranks. In very familiar, comfortable surroundings, it feels like the perfect recipe for Bezzecchi to get his head down and have a strong first season in MotoGP™. Bezzecchi was the fastest rookie in Mandalika, finishing just 0.8s away from Pol Espargaro (Repsol Honda Team).

Fabio Di Giannantonio (Gresini Racing MotoGP™):

Another one of Italy’s rising stars is Gresini Racing MotoGP™’s Fabio Di Giannantonio. The standout ride of his 2021 season was his victory in Jerez, with Diggia eventually finishing seventh overall in the standings after claiming three other podiums in Qatar, America and Valencia.

How does Di Giannantonio feel ahead of debut MotoGP™ season?

A bout of gastroenteritis saw Di Giannantonio, who will run the number 49 this year instead of his usual 21, miss the second and third day of the Shakedown Test. Two crucial days were lost on the bike for the fastest rookie at the Jerez Test, but ending the Mandalika Test as the second best rookie and 0.8s from the fastest pace was more than promising.

Darryn Binder (WithU Yamaha RNF MotoGP™ Team):

Darryn Binder grabbed the headlines when WithU Yamaha RNF MotoGP™ Team confirmed the South African would be making the colossal jump from Moto3™ to the premier class. A lightweight class title charge went astray in 2021 for Binder as a rookie named Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Ajo) took the world by storm, but Binder had a solid year. His height and weight caused him problems in Moto3™, and it’s fair to say that he’s had a good start to life as a MotoGP™ rider.

A day in the life of a rookie: Darryn Binder in Sepang

Having the experience of Andrea Dovizioso beside him in the box should be like gold dust for Binder, who was less than two seconds down on the quickest time in Mandalika. It will be a fascinating watch to see how Binder gets on.

Sunday evening at the Lusail International Circuit will be the biggest race of the MotoGP™ rookies’ lives, as their premier class adventures begin. Who are you backing to be the 2022 Rookie of the Year? Follow the battle live and OnDemand with VideoPass so you don’t miss any of the action.

Follow the story

VideoPass allows you to watch every single second of every single sector LIVE and OnDemand. VideoPass offers you unrivalled access to interviews and features as well as every competitive lap at every Grand Prix. VideoPass is also available on the MotoGP™ app for iOS and Android, while you can also watch LIVE or OnDemand content with Roku TV, Apple TV, Android TV or Amazon Fire TV.
More than 45,000 videos dating back to 1992, with a comprehensive back catalogue of MotoGP™ coverage including full races, interviews, summaries, reports and documentaries, are at your disposal – when you want, where you want.
Different camera feeds and OnBoards allow you to choose your preferred viewing experience, and to enjoy the race from so many angles. SIGN UP NOW!

Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here

When the sun sets…

So, what about the newcomers facing the daunting prospect of their first MotoGP™ race. The history books are not on the side of Remy Gardner, Raul Fernandez, Darryn Binder, Fabio di Giannantonio and Marco Bezzecchi. The last rookie to win on his premier class debut was Max Biaggi in 1998, riding the Honda at Suzuka. The Italian is only one of five riders to have achieved such a feat. The very first premier class World Championship race at the 1949 TT was won by Harold Daniell in the Isle of Man. A year later Geoff Duke won at the TT on his 500cc World Championship debut. Circumstances helped two debutant winners to their only Grand Prix wins. Jorge Kissling won in 1961 in Argentina and Edmund Czihak at the Nürburgring in Germany in 1974 when the leading riders boycotted the race on safety grounds. Finnish rider Jarno Saarinen won the opening two rounds riding the new two-stroke 500cc Yamaha in 1973 before losing his life in that tragic 250 cc Grand Prix at Monza. Only Duke went on to win the premier class title although Saarinen would surely have won the World title, probably for many years to come.

Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here

Thrilling race video from Summer Night Series

Australia’s first smart-helmet manufacturer, Forcite, has created an exciting cockpit-view race video filmed with their clever helmet.

Filmed in collaboration with Cam Elkins of Stories of Bike, Under Lights features the amateur racing event – The Summer Night Series.

Forcite spokesman Charlie Stack says it is a short story that explores the tight-knit community and culture that has formed around Australia’s newest and most exciting race series. 

It is hosted by St George Motorcycle Club over four rounds under the state of the art Floodlight installation at Sydney Motorsport Park.

“St George Motorcycle Club started the series two seasons ago in an effort to bring something fresh and exciting to an otherwise stagnant Australian amateur motorcycle racing scene,” Charlie says. 

“Driven forward by a raft of dedicated organisers, volunteers, and competitors, the series is quickly becoming a crowd favourite for Sydney based spectators, and the club hopes to grow the event in the upcoming season and beyond.

Also showcased is Forcite-sponsored rider Aidan Hayes with his Forcite helmet providing a unique cockpit view of the close racing.

He battles his way through the field from a pit lane start to end in a photo finish, separated from a fellow rider by mere centimetres.

Forcite has launched a public equity crowdfunding campaign through Equitise to build more varieties of their MK1 helmets and expand into the world market.

The cashed-up company has already attracted funding from Atlas Advisors Australia, bringing their combined post-sales funding to $8 million.

Forcite smart helmet

The MK1 helmet features Forcite’s patented RAYDAR helmet system, combining Formula 1 LED technology, audio interactivity, military-grade camera recording and a fingertip handlebar controller.

Click here for more details.

Forcite’s smart helmet is designed to deliver road alerts and visual and audio turn-by-turn navigation without a phone, enabling riders to see or predict things before they happen to avoid danger.

It also automatically records dashcam footage of multiple lanes without distracting the rider.

All the technology is incorporated into the helmet without the need for an externally mounted device.

Forcite Chief Executive Officer Alfred Boyadgis claims the helmet’s technology which warns of road hazards with flashing lights, can reduce the number of accidents and save lives.

The Sydney based motorcycle technology company aims to provide a safer, more dynamic motorcycling experience with it’s Forcite MK1 smart motorcycle helmet. The world’s first ECE 22.05 approved smart helmet has rapidly sold out every time it has been available.

Now, 1380 riders are using the Forcite MK1 on the road and track with 14,000 more registering their interest to buy.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

The 10 Best Touring Motorcycles for 2022

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Touring motorcycles are a special breed. They need to be strong and reliable, and able to accelerate to highway speeds whilst carrying heavy luggage, but they also need to be comfortable and equipped with plenty of accessories to keep riders relaxed for mile after mile. Today, there are more touring motorcycles available than before, each geared towards different riders with different touring ambitions.

For this list, we’re looking at the 10 best touring motorcycles for 2022, and by “touring” we mean it in the traditional sense of the word. While you can tour on any motorcycle, we’re not including adventure touring motorcycles or sports touring motorcycles. That’s not strictly true, since one slipped through the net, but it’ll make sense when you get to it.

So, let’s take a look at the best touring motorcycles out there that you can go out and buy in 2022.

2022 Indian Pursuit

2022 Indian Pursuit Dark Horse Premium

The all-new Indian Pursuit takes aim at the top bikes in the luxury touring arena. It’s a dominating machine that draws power from Indian’s acclaimed 1,768cc PowerPlus V-twin engine. With a power output of 120 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of peak torque, the Pursuit has plenty of tricks up its sleeve. Based off the popular Indian Challenger, the Pursuit shares the same performance-oriented design concept.

What makes the Pursuit an ideal touring machine is the level of technology installed. Starting with the lightweight aluminum frame integrating the 111″ engine as a stressed member, the backbone of the Indian is very rigid, although not quite the lightest machine in the class, it is on the lighter side of average. The suspension package is more sporty than I expected, with a 43mm upside-down front fork and an electronically adjustable fox mono-shock. Adjustments to the suspension settings are easily made via the touch screen display. Bringing this big touring bike to a halt are the 4 piston Brembo brakes with lean angle ABS.

Indian has made sure the Pursuit has every bell and whistle you could ever hope for from heated seats and power windscreen to the powerful 200-watt audio system with Apple Carplay.

Four trim packages are available for the 2022 Pursuit.

2022 BMW K1600 Grand America

2022 BMW K1600 Grand America 719 Midnight Edition

The 2022 BMW K1600 range has plenty of models worthy of this list. The K1600B, for example, is a really nice bike. But when it comes to serious road touring, the Grand America would be our weapon of choice. It’s got the bags, it’s got the backrest, and it packs a powerful punch from an enormous engine: everything a good touring motorcycle needs.

The secret to the BMW’s success is its large 1,649cc inline-six engine. If you’re looking for power, it’s got plenty of it, with 160 horsepower on tap along with 129 lb-ft of peak torque. It’s a fast-mover, and despite its bulk, it has a lot of sporting DNA. Dynamic Traction Control, ABS Pro, and cruise control are just some of the top features that come as standard.

There’s more though. What we really like about the K1600 Grand America are the other details, such as the reverse assistant function, electronic suspension adjustment system, advanced audio system, and touring practicalities like seat heating, hard luggage, and high windscreen. For 2022 BMW has offered this incredible 719 Midnight edition, with a paint scheme that needs to be seen up close to truly appreciate.

2022 Harley-Davidson CVO Road Glide Limited

2022 Harley Davidson CVO Road Glide Limited

In the world of Harley Davidson, the CVO models are the absolute best of the best and the 2022 CVO Road Glide Limited is exactly that. The best Harley Davidson has to offer.

Powered by the 117″ version of the Milwaukee-Eight V-Twin, it puts down 126ft. lbs of torque, with the classic throbbing pulse you would expect. Harley is content to let the others fight it out on the spec sheet for peak horsepower or slightly improved sporting nature, this bike is the antithesis of all that. Riding a CVO Road Glide Limited is about consuming mile upon mile of asphalt in total comfort and style.

The CVO editions have every single option that matters, and a look that no one else can touch. No other manufacturer paints a bike like a CVO Harley Davidson. For 2022 this gorgeous flamed paint job is called “Dante’s Red Fade”, I have no words, just wow.

2022 Honda Gold Wing Tour DCT2022 Honda Goldwing Tour DCT

Long Live The King! That is pretty much the sentiment when discussing the Honda Gold Wing, for many the Wing is the Gold Standard for what a great touring bike is.

The heart of the Gold Wing for the last 20+ years has been the 1833cc six-cylinder engine that produces 126 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque. Yes, those numbers seem rather mundane, but the delivery is incredibly smooth and combined with an automatic 7-speed transmission it is completely unique in the world of Touring bikes. Many have offered up the trivial argument of how they would never want a bike without a clutch, then they ride the Wing. It has made many many converts of former die-hards to the manual way of riding.

When it comes to features, again Honda seems to always be out front leading the way with rider aids that both make perfect sense and add luxuries not before seen. The one key feature I am still stunned has not become far more mainstream is an airbag. Honda has led the way with this technology and is still the only touring bike to offer this level of safety equipment.

It is clear that the Wing no longer tops the individual checkboxes when it comes to specs, but the sum of the parts is where the Goldwing truly shines. Honda knows exactly what they are doing when it comes to building an epic touring bike.

2022 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager ABS

2022 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager ABS

Although it is getting a little long in the tooth the Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager is still a solid platform from which to enjoy a long-distance excursion.

Under the proverbial hood, the Vulcan 1700 Voyager boasts a 1700cc SOHC dual cooled (both liquid and air) 52-degree V-twin engine that produces 72.5 crank HP and 100 lb-ft of crank torque. The outputs are smaller than some of the others on this list, but power isn’t everything. This isn’t a sports bike. But what it lacks in outright performance, it makes up for in features.

Aside from the impressive front fairing and large windscreen, the Vulcan 1700 Voyager also features advanced unified ABS brakes, electronic self-adjusting throttle valves, electronic cruise control, a comprehensive audio, and radio system, integrated intercom compatibility, and of course, spacious integrated luggage and stowage compartments. If you’re going to tackle a transcontinental route, the 2022 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Voyager ABS won’t let you down.

2022 Indian Roadmaster

2022 Indian roadmaster-01-modal-lg

If you want to buy a tourer on the strength of its looks alone, then the Roadmaster is a tough candidate to beat. It looks great, but it also performs even better. This legendary American cruiser offers big power, high technology, and one of the most enjoyable riding experiences out there. If we were ranking the models in this list, there’s a high chance that this would be in the top three.

Drawing power from Indian’s famous air-cooled V-twin Thunderstroke 116 engine, the Roadmaster produces 92 horsepower and 126 lb-ft of torque. Power is delivered via a smooth six-speed gearbox, and kept under control with selectable riding modes, cruise control, advanced ABS, and Indian’s cool rear-cylinder deactivation system. Add in RideCommand infotainment, a 22-watt audio system, heated seats, practical bags, and more, and you’ve got a serious touring machine.

Aside from the standard model mentioned here, the 2022 Indian Roadmaster is available in the Roadmaster Dark Horse, and the Roadmaster Limited. They’re all seriously impressive touring machines…but they are also very expensive touring machines, so keep that in mind before you fall in love too deeply.

2022 BMW R 18 Transcontinental

2022 BMW R18 Transcontinental Option 719 Galaxy Dust Metallic/Titan Silver 2 Metallic Paint

How BMW designers are able to have two such wildly different yet epic touring bikes is beyond me, but they do, and I love it.

10 Motorcycles Perfect For Beginners

The R 18 Transcontinental is retro-modern at its finest. With the bulging 1802cc Boxer engine on display between your knees, BMW has added the touring gear needed for pure comfort while logging endless miles. The large front fender and the striking front end with both auxiliary headlights form the starting point for the elegant streamlined design. The 6.3-gallon tank, wind deflectors, floorboards, and the top case with backrest for the passenger complete the clearly defined look.

Here is an example of the retro-modern awesomeness I am talking about. Fitted below a very traditional set of gauges you will find a stunning modern 10.25” TFT display showing everything from map navigation to vehicle data and your playlist.

The list of cool items on the R18 Transcontinental is long, and the 116 lb-ft of torque is strong, but the Option 719 Galaxy Dust Metallic/Titan Silver 2 Metallic paint is simply drool-worthy.

2022 Harley-Davidson Ultra Limited

2022-harley-davidson-ultra-limited-motorcycle-g2

Harley’s Ultra Limited isn’t new for 2022. The 2021 model will carry over with new colorways, but we still think it’s worthy of a mention. It’s one of the most advanced touring models in the Harley-Davidson stable, with plenty of bells and whistles, tour-ready accessories, tour-focused performance, and a price tag that reflects those qualities.

Under the hood, the Harley-Davidson Ultra Limited features a big 1,868cc Milwaukee-Eight 114 V-twin engine. It’s a big engine that produces a serious 114 lb-ft of torque. The sophisticated engine is complemented by class-leading components, such as Brembo Reflex ABS brakes, electronic cruise control, responsive suspension, heated grips, and a Boom Box GTS infotainment system.

And if you really care about the way your motorcycle is styled, you’ll be pleased to learn that the 2022 Harley-Davidson Ultra Limited is available in no less than 8 different color options. The paint scheme is hardly a deal-breaker, but when you’re forking out just under $30k for a motorcycle, you want it to be in the right color.

2022 Can-Am Spyder RT Limited

2022 Can-Am Spyder RT Limited

And now for something completely different. Alright, only a little different, the Can-Am Spyder! I have shared more than a few times just how important a role Can-Am has played in bringing the joy of riding to many who otherwise would not be able to manage the weight and balance of a standard two-wheeled bike, and those who simply love the fantastic riding experience the Spyder presents.

The Spyder RT Limited is powered by the same European-made 1,330cc Rotax ACE triple-cylinder engine found in the rest of the Spyder range. It produces a total of 115 horsepower and 96 lb-ft of torque, delivered to the rear wheel via a semi-automatic gearbox, and kept in line with advanced stability control, traction control, dynamic power steering, and ABS.

Other cool features include touring floorboards, an adjustable electric windshield, premium LED headlights, BRP’s six-speaker audio system, and BRP Connect app integration.

2022 BMW R 1250 RT

2022-bmw-r-1250-rt-rv

Purists may disagree with this listing, and that’s fine. We’re in two minds about where to put this. The 2022 BMW R1250 RT is definitely a touring motorcycle, but it does have some sports touring DNA in there. Still, we’re including it because it has just been recently updated, and it’s a great choice for cross-country road riding. Whether you agree with its inclusion or not, there’s no denying that the 2022 BMW R1250 RT is more than up to the task.

Using BMW’s instantly recognizable boxer-twin engine, the R1250 RT’s 1,254cc motor produces a fantastic 136 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque, in what can only be described as a sporty-looking touring package. Despite the impressive performance, we still say that this leans towards the touring segment rather than the sports touring segment, and our reasoning is based on the included extras.

Featuring cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, hill-start control, a tall windscreen, and front fairing, plus integrated hard luggage, the BMW ticks all of the right boxes for relaxed long-distance riding. It just so happens that you can let loose in the corners too.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Cathedral of Moto Guzzi officially opens

Riders and fans of Moto Guzzi are invited to taste Italian cuisine and motorbikes at the inaugural Festival of Moto Guzzi on 11-13 March.

The event will be held on large acreage in the beautiful rolling hills around Yea, Victoria, just 1.5 hours north of Melbourne.

A highlight of the weekend will be the opening of the Cathedral of Moto Guzzi which houses the largest collection of the Italian marque’s motorcycles in the Southern Hemisphere.

Moto Guzzi Cathedral

It was assembled over five years by a small group of passionate Moto Guzzi enthusiasts.

It features the private collection of more than 170 Moto Guzzi motorcycles owned by Moto Guzzi doyen, Teo Lamers, who describes himself as a “motorcycle-racist”.

Teo Lamers of the Moto Guzzi Cathedral

“There are many better bikes however you want to look at it, but, to me, a Moto Guzzi is more than just a bike,” he says.

“I know the people who make them. I know the village where they live. I know the restaurants. I’ve been going there for so long. I know how important the factory has been for Italy, for Mandello, to survive after the war.

“It’s the Italian culture, the language, the food, it’s the whole package. Italians are warm-blooded. They have this passion.

“I bought my first Moto Guzzi – a second-hand V700 from 1967 – at the age of about 19. I still remember when I started it up and feeling the engine go ‘boom, boom, boom, boom’. I rode it home and just fell in love with Moto Guzzi the brand from there.

“Riding a Moto Guzzi is a completely different feeling. The DNA of 100 years is in today’s range. The bikes are still exclusive. If you ride one, it draws people’s attention. You don’t get that with other brands.”

The Cathedral’s display is set over three levels with bikes grouped by model semblance to highlight the mechanical evolution. They are also developing a library and bar/café.

The Cathedral is open to the public for guided tours by appointment.

Meanwhile, the three-day Festival of Moto Guzzi includes:

  • Test rides of the latest Moto Guzzi range, including the V7 Special, V9 Bobber Centenario and V85 TT Travel
  • A rare opportunity to test ride a variety of classic Moto Guzzi models provided by Teo Lamers Motorcycles. These include a 1934 500 GTS; a 1947 250 Airone; a 1949 and 1951 Super Alce as well as a pair of Ercole, or Hercules, commercial models from the late 1950s – a shuttle bus and a hydraulic tipper with an Ariasi cabin. All bike tests are subject to availability.
  • Live entertainment from Mojo Mafia (Friday night) and Stoked (Saturday night)
  • Authentic Italian food by Giro d’Italia restaurant, Melbourne
  • Craft beer on tap by On Point Brewery from the nearby township of Alexandra
  • Handmade wines from the Victorian Pyrenees by David K. Jones Wines
  • Gelato by Buonissimo Gelato Melbourne
  • Barista coffee
  • Opportunity to get up close and personal with more than 170 rare and unique Moto Guzzi models at the Cathedral of Moto Guzzi
  • Special moto guests include a two-valve ‘Dr John’ Replica and two Magni prototypes by Barry Jones
  • Large camping ground on site with toilets and shower facilities
Dubbo Bike Rally

LOCATION

Festival of Moto Guzzi: 526 Ti Tree Creek Road, Yea VIC 3717

Test rides to be conducted in the township of Yea (15km north of the Cathedral)

ADMISSION – $151.24 for the three days 

Tickets include:

  • A showbag upon arrival
  • Test rides on classic and current Moto Guzzi motorcycles
  • Italian lunch and dinners provided by Giro d’Italia Restaurant for all three days
  • Two gelato vouchers a day for two days
  • The use of camping grounds and facilities on the premises

BUY TICKETS NOW

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

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