It’s race week!
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Source: Jonathan Rea On Facebook
South Australian ASBK round officially cancelled
2021 ASBK Calendar Update
Rounds 7 & 8 of the mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship scheduled to be staged at The Bend Motorsport Park have been cancelled today. The double-header ASBK event which was scheduled for 11-14 November will not be held due to the ongoing State border closures and continued uncertainly on the timelines for the reopening of borders.
This remains a frustrating time for all within the ASBK Paddock including riders, teams, officials, and also the fans, all of which are very keen to get back to the track and ASBK action as soon as possible.
The ASBK Management Team is continuing to work with The Bend Motorsport Park to consider if any alternative plans or dates may be possible in 2021. No confirmation or announcement is possible at this time as further investigations with SA Health continue.
The ASBK Management Team is now focused on the next round of the ASBK Championship to be held at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit on 3 – 5 December – subject to COVD-19 restrictions.
Wayne Maxwell currently leads the championship by 26-points over the injured Troy Herfoss, and Maxwell is 32-points ahead of third placed Glenn Allerton.
Only three rounds of the championship have been able to be completed this year for Superbike, and the support categories have completed only two rounds. Winton and Wakefield Park hosted all categories, while the Hidden Valley round in Darwin was Superbike only.
Under the ASBK Sporting Regulations a minimum of three rounds and/or six races need to be completed for each class.
Thus, MCNews.com.au understands that if the Phillip Island finale was not go ahead, the 2021 Championships crowns could still be awarded in all categories apart from Supersport.
Superbike has run three rounds and six races, and most support categories raced three races at each of the two rounds they contested, thus fulfilling the six race requirement in the ASBK Sporting Regulations, should a Force Majeure be declared by organisers. However, the Supersport class, as yet, has not satisfied the requirement for three rounds and/or six races stated in the ASBK Sporting Regulations.
ASBK Championship Points
| Pos | Rider | Total |
| 1 | Wayne MAXWELL | 132 |
| 2 | Troy HERFOSS | 106 |
| 3 | Glenn ALLERTON | 100 |
| 4 | Cru HALLIDAY | 88 |
| 5 | Oli BAYLISS | 87 |
| 6 | Bryan STARING | 87 |
| 7 | Mike JONES | 74 |
| 8 | Arthur SISSIS | 71 |
| 9 | Jed METCHER | 70 |
| 10 | Josh WATERS | 53 |
| 11 | Anthony WEST | 52 |
| 12 | Matt WALTERS |
Motorsports TV Supersport Championship Standings
| Pos | Rider | Total |
| 1 | Broc PEARSON | 91 |
| 2 | Tom EDWARDS | 84 |
| 3 | Max STAUFFER | 78 |
| 4 | Luke POWER | 63 |
| 5 | Dallas SKEER | 62 |
| 6 | Jack PASSFIELD | 58 |
| 7 | Scott NICHOLSON | 58 |
| 8 | Aidan HAYES | 47 |
| 9 | Rhys BELLING | 42 |
| 10 | Tom BRAMICH | 41 |
| 11 | Mitch KUHNE | 30 |
| 12 | John LYTRAS | 28 |
| 13 | Timothy LARGE | 25 |
| 14 | Luke MITCHELL | 24 |
| 15 | Matthew LONG | 23 |
| 16 | Jack HYDE | 23 |
| 17 | Noel MAHON | 17 |
| 18 | Joel TAYLOR | 17 |
Dunlop Supersport 300 Championship Standings
| Pos | Name | Total |
| 1 | Ben BAKER | 136 |
| 2 | Zackary JOHNSON | 101 |
| 3 | Reece OUGHTRED | 98 |
| 4 | Cameron DUNKER | 86 |
| 5 | Carter THOMPSON | 76 |
| 6 | Caleb GILMORE | 75 |
| 7 | Brandon DEMMERY | 74 |
| 8 | Tom DRANE | 54 |
| 9 | Archie McDONALD | 51 |
| 10 | Glenn NELSON | 51 |
| 11 | Joseph MARINIELLO | 51 |
| 12 | Peter NERLICH | 47 |
| 13 | Jacob HATCH | 46 |
| 14 | Angus GRENFELL | 41 |
| 15 | Jonathan NAHLOUS | 40 |
| 16 | Zylas BUNTING | 39 |
| 17 | Lucas QUINN | 33 |
| 18 | Jake FARNSWORTH | 31 |
| 19 | James JACOBS | 28 |
| 20 | Matthew RINDEL | 28 |
| 21 | Clay CLEGG | 26 |
| 22 | Zakary PETTENDY | 23 |
| 23 | Jai RUSSO | 16 |
| 24 | Brodie GAWITH | 14 |
| 25 | Liam WATERS | 10 |
| 26 | Laura BROWN | 9 |
| 27 | Zane KINNA | 7 |
| 28 | Taiyo AKSU | 4 |
| 29 | Varis FLEMING | 2 |
| 30 | Henry SNELL | 1 |
bLU cRU Oceania Junior Cup Points
| Pos | Rider | Total |
| 1 | Cameron SWAIN | 143 |
| 2 | Levi RUSSO | 92 |
| 3 | Nate O’NEILL | 86 |
| 4 | Ryan LARKIN | 84 |
| 5 | Riley NAUTA | 83 |
| 6 | Hudson THOMPSON | 80 |
| 7 | Harrison WATTS | 77 |
| 8 | Varis FLEMING | 72 |
| 9 | Hayden NELSON | 63 |
| 10 | Toby JAMES | 60 |
| 11 | Marcus HAMOD | 57 |
| 12 | Jack FAVELLE | 55 |
| 13 | William HUNT | 55 |
| 14 | Nikolas LAKUSIC | 48 |
| 15 | Valentino KNEZOVIC | 48 |
| 16 | Tate McCLURE | 45 |
| 17 | Elijah ANDREW | 31 |
| 18 | Oliver SKINNER | 29 |
| 19 | Lachlan MOODY | 27 |
| 20 | Bodie PAIGE | 21 |
Source: MCNews.com.au
A look into some rare Derbi 125 cc Grand Prix machines
Derbi 125 cc GP Racers
With Phil Aynsley
I’m afraid information about these bikes is scant, but as they are such interesting machines I’ll have have to let the photos tell the story. Firstly we have (an extremely rare) example of Derbi’s first 125 cc GP design.
Race team chief and engineer Francisco Tombas (also responsible for the highly successful 50 cc GP) introduced this narrow-angle, air-cooled V-twin in 1967 and it competed until the completely new water-cooled twin replaced it in 1970.
The twin crankshaft design was basically two singles mounted one above the other with a common crankcase. An six- to eight-speed gearbox was used, depending on the circuit. Two 24 mm Dell’Orto carburettors were fitted.
By 1969 the output was 32 hp at 13,500 rpm and the 100 kg machine was good for a top speed of 215 km/h. The bike was not particularly successful however with only a single top-six placing in GPs. While Angel Nieto did not compete in the 125 GP class prior to 1970 he apparently raced this bike in the Spanish Championship in ‘69.
Secondly we have the only surviving example of the two Derbi 125cc water-cooled twins built for Angel Nieto for the 1970 GP season. He finished 2nd in the championship to Dieter Braun on a Suzuki with both winning four races each. It was later raced by Benjamin Grau in the Spanish Championship.
Source: MCNews.com.au
2021 Ducati Monster 1200
Ups
- Classic Monster styling
- Friendly big-bore V-twin engine
- Full suite of electronic rider aids
Downs
- The Streetfighter V4 steals some of its naked bike glory
- It’s a pricey proposition in a crowded field of liter-class naked bikes
Verdict
Outside of the Scrambler line, the Monster 12000 may be the most traditional Ducati in the 2021 lineup. While the 2021 Monster’s styling departure and the Streetfighter V4′s prodigious performance are stealing all the headlines, the Monster 1200 quietly tows the line, adhering to beloved Ducati archetypes with its trellis frame and 1,198cc V-twin engine.
Overview
The Monster 1200 was introduced in 2014 to replace the air-cooled Monster 1100 EVO, and was last updated in 2017. The Monster 1200′s sporty performance, modern rider aids, and proven V-twin were enough to keep it top dog in Ducati’s naked bike lineup until the Streetfighter V4 came snarling onto the scene in 2020. Rather than seeming like the old hat, the Monster 1200 remains a competent sporting motorcycle with styling that doesn’t seem out of place wherever the ride may take you.
Updates for 2021
The Ducati Monster 1200 is unchanged for 2021, but the S model is available in a new Black on Black color scheme that features matte and gloss paint with red accents.
Pricing And Variants
The base model Monster 1200 retails for $14,995. The up-spec S model retails for $17,595 for Ducati Red and $17,795 for Black on Black. The S model is differentiated from the base model with fully-adjustable Öhlins suspension, upgraded Brembo M50 brakes (the base model uses Brembo M4.32 calipers), three-spoke alloy wheels, a carbon fiber front mudguard, and standard up/down quickshifter.
Competition
The large-displacement naked bike category is ever expanding with roadsters on the more conservative side and hyper nakeds on the aggressive, performance-oriented side. The Monster fits somewhere in between. Since the Streetfighter V4 carries the mantle for Ducati’s hyper naked hopes and go against the likes of the Triumph Speed Triple RS ($18,500), KTM 1290 Super Duke R ($18,699), Aprilia Tuono V4 ($15,999), and BMW S 1000 R ($14,995), the Monster 1200 can more than hold its own against less aggressive contenders like the BMW R 1250 R ($14,995), and price-conscious machines like the Yamaha MT-10 ($12,999), Honda CB1000R Black Edition ($12,999), and Suzuki Katana ($13,499).
Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Monster 1200 has a desmodromic 1,198cc V-twin engine that produces a claimed 147 horsepower at 9,250 rpm and 91 pound-feet of torque at 7,750 rpm. In an MC Commute Review of the 2020 Monster 1200 S, Adam Waheed noted: “The thing I like most about this bike is its familiar 1198 superbike-based engine. Full of torque and character, this engine embodies Ducati. Its rhythmic power pulses make it a blast to ride, plus it is crazy quick and leaps off turns like no other bike in this comparison.”
Handling
Even though the Streetfighter V4 is the true naked sportbike in the lineup, the Monster will never be accused of lazy steering or of not having sportbike roots. In a five-way comparison test, Mark Hoyer says: “Riders felt very much a part of the bike, connected to the point where it sort of disappeared.” Suspension is firm, but well-dialled in, especially with the S model’s fully-adjustable Öhlins.
Brakes
Brembo M.50 calipers on the S model and M4.32 calipers on the base model are premium components and work accordingly. The M.50 units have improved stopping power and feel, so ponying up for the S model is justifiable. Both specs have cornering ABS, utilizing the Bosch six-axis IMU.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
In Cycle World’s 2020 test, the Monster 1200 S recorded an average of 38.1 miles per gallon.
Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility
Ergonomics are typical naked bike fare, with not unkind accommodations that put the rider in the wind. The riding position is relatively aggressive and tight fitting, featuring an up-and-back footpeg position and an in-command reach to the handlebar. Seat height is adjustable in two positions between 31.3 inches and 32.3 inches.
Electronics
The base model Monster 1200 has a Bosch six-axis IMU that manages customizable traction control and cornering ABS. Rider aids include adjustable ride modes and wheelie control. The S model includes an up/down quickshifter that’s available as an accessory for the base model. A TFT dash and LED lighting round out the package.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
The Monster 1200 has a 24-month warranty.
Quality
Fit and finish is representative of Ducati’s high-end reputation. The Monster has premium components, quality switchgear, and exhibits Ducati’s attention to detail. The Testastretta 11-degree engine has been around in one form or another since it was developed for the 998 superbike. It’s a proven, reliable engine. Valve check intervals are every 18,000 miles.
2021 Ducati Monster 1200 Claimed Specifications
| MSRP: | $14,995 (base model), $17,595 (S model) |
| Engine: | 1,198cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC V-twin, 8 valves |
| Bore x Stroke: | 106.0mm x 67.9mm |
| Transmission/Final Drive: | 6-speed/chain |
| Fuel Delivery: | Electronic fuel injection w/ 56mm oval throttle body |
| Clutch: | Slipper and self-servo wet multiplate clutch with hydraulic control |
| Engine Management/Ignition: | Ride by wire/TCI |
| Frame: | Steel trellis |
| Front Suspension: | 43mm Kayaba USD fork, fully adjustable; 5.12-in. travel (base model)/ 48mm Öhlins fork, fully adjustable; 5.12-in. Travel (S model) |
| Rear Suspension: | Sachs shock, adjustable for preload and rebound; 5.9-in. travel/ Öhlins monoshock, fully adjustable; 5.9-in. travel (S model) |
| Front Brake: | Brembo M4.32 4-piston caliper, dual 320mm discs w/ cornering ABS |
| Rear Brake: | Brembo 2-piston caliper, 245mm disc w/ cornering ABS |
| Wheels, Front/Rear: | 10 spoke alloy, 3.50 x 17 in. / 6.0 x 17 in. |
| Tires, Front/Rear: | 120/70 ZR17 / 190/55 ZR17 |
| Rake/Trail: | 23.3°/3.4 in. |
| Wheelbase: | 58.5 in. |
| Seat Height: | Adj. 31.30–32.28 in |
| Fuel Capacity: | 4.4 gal. |
| Wet Weight: | 470 lb. (base model)/ 465 lb. (S model) |
| Contact: | ducati.com |
Cycle World Tested Specifications
| Seat Height: | 31.6 in. |
| Wet Weight: | 472 lb. (S model) |
| Rear-Wheel Horsepower: 131.4 hp @ 9,200 rpm | |
| Rear-Wheel Torque: | 81.6 lb.-ft. @ 7,600 rpm |
| 0–60 mph: | 3.27 sec. |
| 1/4-mile: | 10.70 sec. @ 133.0 mph |
| Braking 30–0 mph: | 31.3 ft. |
| Braking 60–0 mph: | 129.4 ft. |
Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com
Uncertainty over border openings forces 2021 AORC Championship cancellation
2021 AORC null and void
Unfortunately, with no clarity provided by State Governments around the timing for the opening of state borders, the AORC Management Team has made the necessary decision to cancel the 2021 Yamaha Australian Off-Road Championships.
As only two rounds of the 2021 AORC Championship were conducted and in accordance to the AORC Championship regulations, there will be no Champions awarded for any classes in 2021.
The AORC Championship has been on hold for many months and was only able to conduct two rounds over one weekend in April at Golden Beach, Victoria.
Every AORC event requires significant planning and on-ground preparations many weeks prior to each round to ensure world class tracks are provided for competitors. Without the clear indication from State Government’s on border openings timelines, the AORC Management Team has made this extremely hard decision to cancel the Championship as we are unable to plan for future events.
Furthermore, the AORC Management Team wish to provide the riders, teams and fans a clear position for the remainder of 2021. Also allowing for solid plans and preparations for an exciting 2022 AORC Championship with planning already underway to ensure it is bigger and better than ever.
The decision of the AORC Management Team is supported by Motorcycling Australia CEO, Peter Doyle, who said it was disappointing the decision had to be made, although it was necessary to ensure riders and teams could plan for the future.
“We completely understand the frustration and disappointment felt by riders, teams and fans. It has been a very difficult past 18 months for the sport and for the AORC riders and teams. We thank them for their patience and support during this time, but with State Government’s failing to guarantee the timeline of the reopening of State Borders the tough decision needs to be made,” Mr Doyle said.
Motorcycling Australia will release an exciting calendar for the 2022 Yamaha Australian Off-Road Championship, presented by MXstore, in the coming weeks. Plans for 2022 Championship are sure to provide fans with sensational world class racing and have riders revved up to get back racing.
Source: MCNews.com.au
Quintanilla wins Rally du Maroc – Walkner crowned champ – Sanders on podium
Rally du Maroc 2021
Coming into the Rallye du Maroc with a 20-point advantage at the top of the championship standings, Matthias Walkner knew he still had to put in a strong performance at the penultimate round in order to clinch his second Cross-Country Rallies world title.
Using day one to get back up to speed on his KTM 450 RALLY after the three-month break since the previous round, Walkner used his skill and judgement to build his speed throughout the timed special to ultimately place fourth fastest. With the event heading into the vast expanse of the Merzouga dunes on day two, Matthias took the opportunity to push right from the outset and was able to successfully chase down his rivals ahead to win the stage by just over one minute. The result also elevated him into the overall rally lead.
Falling foul of one particularly tricky note in the road book on Monday’s stage three, Walkner dropped down the order to fourth as the event reached the halfway point. Coming back fighting, and with the goal of making up as much time as possible, the 2018 Dakar winner put in a superb performance that saw him narrowly miss his second stage win of the event by just 36 seconds.
On the fifth and final day, Walkner knew exactly what was needed of him to score enough points to claim the world title. With the timed special shortened by the organizers to just 166 kilometers, times were very close across the whole field. Placing eighth on the final stage, Walkner finished second overall for the event and earned himself 20 points, securing the 2021 FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship for himself and KTM.
Of the three championship rounds raced so far, Walkner has shown incredible consistency, finishing as runner-up at the high-speed Rally Kazakhstan, before taking the win in the contrasting conditions of the epic Silk Way Rally, held in Russia less than one month later. Now, with another podium result in Morocco, the experienced 35-year-old has shown he is clearly on form and will now be aiming to carry his winning momentum into the final round of the series in Abu Dhabi before focusing on the 2022 Dakar next January.
Matthias Walkner
“It’s been a super cool rally for me. I set out this morning hoping to take the win, but I made a small mistake about halfway through that only maybe cost me a minute, but it was enough on the shortened stage to lose out. Second place overall is great though and to win the world championship title early is amazing. The team have been great all year, so a big thank you to them. It’s time to relax now and really enjoy the moment.”
While it was Walkner and KTM winning the war that was the 2021 FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship, the battle victory went to the Monster Energy Honda Team’s new recruit Pablo Quintanilla. On the final day of the rally the Chilean saw off his rivals to claim both stage and race victories.
The 166-kilometre final special stage went quickly for most of the riders still in contention for victory at this Rallye du Maroc. David Castera, race director, had designed a stage with very little navigation. With little movement of wind, the dust hanging in the air accompanied the riders throughout the journey, making it impossible for riders starting from the rear to make up time.
Pablo Quintanilla started in a fine position from which to attack Mathias Walkner’s lead. The Monster Energy Honda Team rider held a sufficiently strong pace to allow him to fulfil this main mission and capture the final stage of the Rallye du Maroc and overall rally victory.
Pablo Quintanilla
“I am very happy with the victory. It was a very difficult week and I want to thank the whole team for the great job they did. It was fantastic for us. Personally, I felt very comfortable, I was riding with great pace, with good navigation and that’s very good for my confidence. I am also very motivated for the next objective, which is the Dakar. We are going to take a short break, rest, recharge our batteries and then we will concentrate on the Dakar.”
Aussie youngster Daniel Sanders secured third overall for his, and GASGAS’, first ever podium result in the FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship. Even with a minor setback on day three, the Aussie turned things around on the final two stages, upping his pace and rapidly closing in on the leader to complete the rally just over five minutes short of the win.
Daniel Sanders
“The last day is done and what a week it’s been! Opening the final stage was pretty cool. After around 80 kilometers the navigation became a bit more tricky so I had to slow my pace to make sure I was on the right path. I actually had a small crash in the dunes but I was up quick and straight back on a decent rhythm. I’m really happy to have finished third on this stage after opening and overall it’s been a great week. To end it with a podium and secure the first podium result for GASGAS in the world championship is really cool. Now I’m looking forward to the next race in Abu Dhabi.”
Ricky Brabec was unable to whittle down the gap separating him from his rivals in the general standings and, in spite of finishing runner-up on the final day, narrowly missed out on a podium place to Daniel Sanders.
Ricky Brabec
“I’m happy to finish another rally, it’s been good training for the Dakar. I’m also very excited for the Honda team to be on top of the podium. Unfortunately, we couldn’t have two Honda riders on the final podium. It takes a lot of guts to win a stage and it takes a lot of courage to open a stage: only three riders have opened this rally, and I think we opened the most difficult stages. I’m really looking forward to the Dakar and this was just training. I made a couple of mistakes and missed out on the podium on the last day, but at least we’ll get home safe and sound and get back to training to be ready for the Dakar.”
Rounding out a highly positive week in Morocco, Yamaha’s Adrien Van Beveren finished ninth overall on the final stage to secure his well-deserved fifth-place finish in the final classification. Confident with his navigation, his ability to open stages, and feeling at one with his Yamaha WR450F Rally, the Frenchman is excited for the future, especially with the 2022 Dakar Rally now very much on the horizon.
Adrien Van Beveren
“I’m really happy with my performance at the Rally Du Maroc. It ended today with another great day on the bike and I’m really confident for the future as my navigation and speed is right where it needs to be. The ultimate goal is to be ready for the Dakar and if I can take the feeling that I had this week to that race then I will be really happy. It’s been a great event here in Morocco. I opened much of stage four, showed good speed all week, and the hard work that the team and myself have done in the lead up to the race is something that we are proud of, and it really paid off.”
Both returning to competition following injury, KTM’s Toby Price and new signing Kevin Benavides used the Rallye du Maroc to rebuild their speed and confidence while also putting the all-new 2022 model KTM 450 RALLY through its paces in its competitive debut. Making changes and developing the bike as the event progressed, the two experienced Dakar champions were pleased with the performance of the machine and look forward to continuing their work at the next round in Abu Dhabi. Ultimately finishing seventh and 13th respectively, Benavides and Price were also joined in Morocco by teammate Sam Sunderland. Unfortunately, the British rider was forced to withdraw from the event on day four, due to illness.
Toby Price
“It’s good to get the last day done, and out of Morocco in one piece. I picked up a small penalty for speeding in today’s stage but all-in-all I can’t complain. It’s good to get the first one under the belt after being off the bike for so long and I’m looking forward to Abu Dhabi now to see what we can do there.”
Kevin Benavides
“The last day went well for me, I kept to a solid pace and made sure I didn’t have any crashes. I was pleased with my riding and navigation, and it’s good to get the first race done with the team. I’ve been a little careful all through the rally because my shoulder has given me some pain, but on the whole it’s gone well. And now I’m looking forward to more time on the bike at Abu Dhabi.”
Most Rally competitiros will next be in action at the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge, held from November 6 to 12.
Provisional Results
Stage 5 Rally du Maroc 2021
- QUINTANILLA Pablo CHI Monster Energy Honda Team 1:39’12
- BRABEC Ricky USA Monster Energy Honda Team +0’17
- SANDERS Daniel AUS Gas Gas Factory Team +0’18
- PRICE Toby AUS Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team 0’37+
- BRANCH Ross BWA Monster Energy Yamaha Rally Team +0’37
- BARREDA Joan SPA Monster Energy Honda Team +1’05
- HOWES Skyler USA Husqvarna Factory Rally Team +1’58
- WALKNER Matthias AUT Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team +2’36
- VAN BEVEREN Adrien FRA Monster Energy Yamaha Rally Team +3’45
- BÜHLER Sebastian POR Hero Motorsports Team Rally +4’51
Provisional Final Outright Overall Standings
Rally du Maroc 2021 after 5 of 5 stages
- QUINTANILLA Pablo CHI Monster Energy Honda Team 16:26’51
- WALKNER Matthias AUT Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team +1’59
- SANDERS Daniel AUS Gas Gas Factory Team +5’27
- BRABEC Ricky USA Monster Energy Honda Team +7’14
- VAN BEVEREN Adrien FRA Monster Energy Yamaha Rally Team +18’01
- BENAVIDES Luciano ARG Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing +34’03
- BENAVIDES Kevin ARG Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team +39’38
- RODRIGUES Joaquim POR Hero Motorsports Team Rally +41’03
- SHORT Andrew USA Monster Energy Yamaha Rally Team +41’53
- CORNEJO José Ignacio CHI Monster Energy Honda Team +45’19
- BARREDA Joan SPA Monster Energy Honda Team +48’12
13. PRICE Toby AUS Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team +55’44
Source: MCNews.com.au
Gogoro Battery-Swapping Network Makes Its Debut In China
Earlier this year, Gogoro announced its plans to establish a countrywide EV network. The deal was in partnership with two of China’s largest two-wheeler manufacturers – DCJ and Yadea – who invested a combined 50 million dollars. Now, the first lot of battery swapping stations, 45 in total, have opened in Hangzhou.
Horace Luke, Gogoro’s co-founder, and CEO told TechCrunch that it targets to have 80 available stations by the end of the year, after which it will redirect its focus towards expanding to other cities with the help of Yadea and Dachangjiang Group (DCJ). TechCrunch also reports that the network will operate under the Huan Huan brand in China.
Additionally, Yadea and DCJ are also developing vehicles compatible with Gogoro’s battery swapping technology. The first two of these models came from Yadea and were launched earlier this week, with sales starting in Hangzhou, alongside the battery swapping network.
The triad of companies is expecting demand to rise with government regulations for EVs that use Li-ion batteries instead of lead-acid units.
Last month, Gogoro also announced that it will be going public after a $2.35 billion deal with Poema Global, expected to be finalized at the start of 2022. Apart from its battery-swapping network, Gogoro also manufactures electric scooters and supplies its battery technology and components to other companies like Yamaha and Suzuki.
The company recently announced a deal with Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, to develop the battery swapping technology for implementation and use in India. This will be a massive move for both companies when it comes into effect and a boost for the EV infrastructure in India.
Source: MotorbikeWriter.com
Bullit Motorcycles Is Now Bluroc Motorcycles
Bullit Motorcycles is (well, was) a Belgian-based manufacturer that sold Chinese-built motorcycles in the UK and Europe. As the headline gives away, the company has now changed its name to Bluroc Motorcycles. Bullit sold small-capacity motorcycles, and its existing line-up will continue to exist, now wearing a Bluroc badge.
In a statement released on its website, Bluroc has mentioned that the change occurred on October 1st. Interestingly, there is no mention of why this decision came about, but the company has said Bluroc “not only reflects the ambition of our brand but also reinforces our link to recent history.” 
Bullit has been around for over a decade now, and VisorDown reports that the decision to change names is a huge deal, and we certainly agree. There’s a lot of rebranding that is to take place, from social media handles and websites to the motorcycles themselves.
Popular models like the Bullit 125 and Bullit Hero 250 will now be called the Bluroc 125 and Bluroc Hero 250, respectively. Additionally, the “Bullit” badge that the bikes wore on their tanks gives way to a stylized “B” logo.
The rest of the company’s statement is as follows: “Bluroc markets affordable motorbikes inspired by iconic models and designs, and the name of this new brand is not Bluroc by chance; it is a tribute to the most popular models in our range!”
“Our Bluroc 125cc and 250cc bikes combined vintage-classic looks with modern technology and paved the way for what would become the Bluroc Motorcycles brand. The current Bluroc bikes will continue to be part of the collection as the “Bluroc Legend,” the ultimate tribute to these icons.”
“The new Bluroc brand makes a promise to future riders: You own a Bluroc for the pleasure of riding … with unique style! This commitment will be reaffirmed by our upcoming special and limited editions, the ultimate expression of this promise.”
At the moment, we can only speculate about why the company decided to change its name, but from the sound of the statement, it looks like it was looking for a fresh start.
Bluroc is expanding its dealer network, and its bikes currently retail in Belgium, the Netherlands, France, Germany, Portugal, and the UK.
Source: MotorbikeWriter.com
阿仁_14 wins the second the Rising Stars Series Regional Final
阿仁_14, riding for Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP, started the final as the favourite, courtesy of his performances across the Online Challenges, which decided who qualified for the final. What followed was an exhibition of high-quality close control, as the Taiwanese competitor fought early on with EIKY 13, before grabbing the initiative after the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing competitor made a mistake on the second lap. From there, he managed his lead to win by 1.071s.
Source: MotoGP.com – Read Full Article Here
Rossi: It’s been a long time since the Ducati’s been as good
“From Qatar, we started to work with used tyres, I was in trouble and I was not feeling good. Until this year, I was always without a great feeling. Last year I did some good races, I think two good races or three, but this year I think I changed a bit my mentality on the bike. I feel that I know very well this bike and I adapt very well on the braking, because now in the braking I can stop the bike very good and I feel great. Also, I adapt the setting of my Ducati to my riding style for the corner speed. Our bike is not so fast in the middle of the corner, but this year we did a good job and now the bike is sweeter for that.”
Source: MotoGP.com – Read Full Article Here