“We play with a ball, he is on a bike – of course, that’s completely different but if you want to win, to do something better and raise your standards, raise your level you have to be in the right mindset. When you are Champion many times, you know it’s because you’re something special. Unfortunately he’s been injured but he’s getting better, and I’m sure he’ll extend his career longer and make the people who love the sport happy.
Source: MotoGP.com – Read Full Article Here
Ups
Downs
Verdict
The 2021 GSX-S1000 sees the most changes since its 2015 introduction. Added rider aids, more torque and power, and revised appearance make it a more tempting naked literbike from Suzuki.
Overview
Suzuki has been incorporating GSX-R1000 power in standard bike form seen in the GSX-S1000 since 2015. That power, along with a compact chassis and upright riding position, makes this bike suitable for daily riding and potential trackdays. Now, it sees the first major overhaul since its intro with updates to the engine, tech, and bodywork.
Updates for 2022
To read the full low down on 2022 updates, be sure to read our 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 First Look. Changes in a nutshell include: the Euro 5-compliant engine has new camshafts, valve springs, throttle bodies, airbox, and 4-2-1 exhaust; a new ride-by-wire system with two additional traction control modes and three ride modes; a slipper and assist clutch; up/down quickshifter; and different ergonomics, bodywork, and lighting.
Pricing and Variants
At the time of writing, the revised GSX-S1000′s MSRP is to be determined. For reference, the last generation started at $11,099. The new version is available in Glass Sparkle Black, Metallic Matte Mechanical Gray, and Metallic Triton Blue.
Competition
Naked-bike competition is spread evenly around the world, from Japan’s Yamaha MT-10, Honda CB1000R, and Kawasaki Z900 to Europe’s Aprilia Tuono V4, Ducati Streetfighter, and Triumph Speed Triple.
Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance
At the heart of GSX-S is a revised 999cc liquid-cooled inline-four engine that the manufacturer claims to have been refined to not only meet Euro 5 standards, but also provide a broad, smooth torque curve and increased horsepower. Claimed power figures are 150 bhp at 11,000 rpm and 78 pound-feet 9,250 rpm. A slipper/assist function and quickshifter are now standard with the six-speed transmission.
In Motorcyclist’s first ride review, the GSX-S’ midrange is pegged as inspiring. “It drives like a streetbike with a far greater capacity as it serves up bucketloads of grunt—and does so from almost anywhere in the revs. Time and again during our test I would go back a gear or two on the now-standard (and supersmooth) up-and-down quickshifter to make a brisk overtake, but it wasn’t necessary. Drive was instantaneous and mighty.”
Handling
Despite a slight weight increase to a claimed 472 pounds, we found “the Suzuki still steers well, and that weight lends a robust feel to the handling.”
Further, the 43mm KYB fork is impressive and effective in normal riding. The rear shock on the other hand approaches its limits when coming in hot on bumpy corners and road undulations, but provides great feedback when the road is smooth. The bike also handles the track environment with impressive composure.
Brakes
Dual 310mm discs and Brembo four-piston calipers make up the front of the GSX-S1000′s brakes. The rear is managed with a single 240mm disc and Nissin one-piston caliper. ABS intervened early during our track testing, and under hard braking everything felt controlled and well managed.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Real-world or claimed mpg is not available at this time. The fuel tank capacity has increased to 5.0 gallons, up from the prior model year’s 4.5.
Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility
The GSX-S1000 has more upright ergonomics especially compared to its GSX-R1000 cousin, and this year slight adjustments to the tapered handlebar give it an even more upright riding position. The bars are now 23mm (0.9 inch) wider and 20mm (0.78 inch) closer to the rider. The seat height has been lowered to 31.9 inches and both the pilot and passenger’s foam seat have also been reshaped for improved comfort.
Electronics
The obvious change in electronics is the stacked LED headlight, and LED taillight and indicators and behind the bars there is also a revised LCD dash. The bike’s revised ECM communicates quicker with other electronics like the electronic throttle bodies and bidirectional quickshifter. There are also three ride modes (Active, Basic, and Comfort) as well as five-mode traction control and standard ABS.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
A 12-month unlimited-mileage warranty comes with the purchase of the newest GSX-S1000. Suzuki offers extended coverage through the Suzuki Extended Protection (SEP) program.
Quality
Some riders may find that even with all the updates the GSX-S1000 sees for 2022, it may still be a bit basic when it comes to specs, but the GSX-S1000′s face-lift and changes do improve the overall look and function.
2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 Claimed Specifications
| MSRP: | TBD |
| Engine: | 999cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled 4-cylinder; 4 valves/cyl. |
| Bore x Stroke: | 73.4 x 59.0mm |
| Transmission/Final Drive: | 6-speed/chain |
| Fuel Delivery: | Fuel injection w/ 40mm throttle bodies |
| Clutch: | Wet, multiplate slipper/assist; cable actuation |
| Engine Management/Ignition: | Ride-by-wire/transistorized |
| Frame: | Aluminum twin spar |
| Front Suspension: | 43mm inverted fork, fully adjustable; 4.7 in. travel |
| Rear Suspension: | Link-type single shock, preload and rebound adjustable; 5.1 in. travel |
| Front Brake: | Brembo radial 4-piston caliper, dual 310mm discs w/ ABS |
| Rear Brake: | Nissin 1-piston floating caliper, 240mm disc w/ ABS |
| Wheels, Front/Rear: | Alloy; 17 x 3.5 in. / 17 x 6.0 in. |
| Tires, Front/Rear: | Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2; 120/70-17, 190/50-17 |
| Rake/Trail: | 25.0°/3.9 in. |
| Wheelbase: | 57.5 in. |
| Ground Clearance: | 5.5 in. |
| Seat Height: | 31.9 in. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 5.0 gal. |
| Wet Weight: | 472 lb. |
| Contact: | suzukicycles.com |
Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com
An Indian Electric two-wheel manufacturer named Ola Electric has just released their first scooter to India – and to say it makes light of the competition is an understatement.
According to a report from RideApart, the S1 was revealed to the eager masses of India on August 15 and designed to provide the client with a budget-friendly machine that would get the job done while providing a bit of extra juice to arrive early to the occasion.
Boy, did Ola deliver.
With a stunning 181km of range, speeds up to 116 km/h, a mere 18 minutes to charge up to 75 km of ride time, and other features such as reverse mode, cruise control, and a brilliantly low center of gravity, the S1 sets new standards for the scooter industry.
Add to this the bargain price of the S1 – currently going for at least ₹85,099 INR, or $1146.57 USD / $1446.97 CAD – and the beastie beats the competition at an easy jog.
To put things into perspective, even the wildly popular Vespa S125 can’t be had in India for less than ₹216,166.80 INR, or $2913.81 USD / $3677.91 CAD brand new – more than twice the price of the S1.
Let’s take a look at what you’re getting for your rupees.
The Ola S1 is powered by an 8500 W Mid-drive IPM Motor, connected to a 3.97 KWh battery and capable of 8.5kW of peak power, with a whopping 58 Nm of peak torque.
According to the website, a complete charge takes roughly 6 hours, with the potential to reach 181km on a single charge.
Ola Electric is also releasing a variant of the S1 – the S1 Pro.
This upgraded version will cost ₹110,149 – that’s $1484.66 USD, or $1873.40 CAD, the same amount of money as a mid-tier mountain bike.
Looking forward to what Ola Electric has next in the cards – rumors are that Company founder and CEO Bhavish Aggarwal plans on soon releasing a wider range of scooters, as well as an electric car.
As always, make sure to check back here for updates – we will keep our ear to the ground for you.
While you’re here, check out India’s plans for a mega-Hypercharger network for India.
Source: MotorbikeWriter.com
A two-year absence from the Championship calendar comes to an end this weekend as Silverstone circuit prepares to host the Monster Energy British Grand Prix. It’s an eagerly anticipated fixture, given the unpredictability of the iconic track and the fact that only a select few of the current grid have experienced victory there. With six different winners in six races, it looks like this is anybody’s race, and we’re here to guide you through how it could all unfold in MotoGP™ Fantasy.
Only a select few riders from the current grid have experienced joy at Silverstone. Two years ago, when we last came for the British GP, Alex Rins (Team Suzuki Ecstar) denied Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) his second ever win at the circuit on the line. Valentino Rossi (Petronas Yamaha SRT) is the only other race winner among the current riders, while Danilo Petrucci (Tech 3 KTM Factory Racing) and Cal Crutchlow (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) have both had podium joy in the past, but none of them have really threatened the top table in 2021 for different reasons.
Photo finish! Is another Silverstone epic on the cards?
All in all, it is highly likely we see new name take the top step at the British GP, and the frontrunner must be Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP). The Championship leader came through the Red Bull Ring, a perceived weakness for Yamahas, with a podium and Championship lead still in tact. El Diablo has been in a class of his own this season with 10 front row starts translating into seven podium finishes, five of which are victories. If you do not have the $4.4 million priced Quartararo in your team, you simply have to change that asap, and having had a slight price drop since last time out, now may represent your best opportunity to do so.
Another strong candidate for your MotoGP™ Fantasy team is Joan Mir. The Team Suzuki Ecstar rider has collected an impressive 138 points from his previous five outings, a total only bettered by Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing). With the new ride height device, the GSX-RR looks a different machine to the one we saw in the earlier stages of the season and capable of picking up plenty of podiums and all-important fantasy points this weekend and beyond. However, he won’t come cheap as he joins Quartararo as the most expensive player in the game at $4.4 million.
“Fabio will make mistakes” – Mir not giving up title chase
The aforementioned Binder also represents an obvious choice for your team, with the South African a regular in the weekly MotoGP™ Fantasy Dream Teams. Victorious in the Austrian GP, which saw him collect a whopping 44 points, his value continues to rise, with the KTM rider now priced at $3.8 million.
If you can’t afford to have all three of the above in your team, then there are plenty of differential options which could reap rewards for you. Marc Marquez hasn’t been the same rider since his comeback as he focuses on finding form and fitness this season, though in Austria he looked closer than ever to being the Marquez of old. Bustling his way through the pack and fighting for the lead, the eight-time Champion was a frontrunner for victory until the heavens opened and chaos ensued. Priced at $3.1 million, he offers a more budget friendly option.
REWIND: Chapter 11 – Fortune Favours The Brave
Cheaper still is the British GP’s last race winner Alex Rins, whose price has dropped to $2.2 million. It has been a less than ideal season to date for the number 42, but with a new ride height device and race-winning experience at Silverstone, can he get himself back among the podium places?
As for the Bologna bullets, if history is anything to go by, we expect them to encounter some difficulties at this circuit. Andrea Dovizioso is the only rider on a Desmosedici to ever place on the podium at Silverstone, in 2015 and 2017. If you were insistent on taking a punt on one of the Ducatis, Jore Martin (Pramac Racing) is in the form of his life after back-to-back poles and a victory and podium at the Red Bull Ring. The rookie Spaniard, valued at just $2 million, may be the wildcard on your team you are looking for.
Silverstone is a circuit that favours Yamaha and Suzuki on paper, and between those two, we would have to plump for Suzuki as your constructors choice this weekend. The points earned here are based on a combination of the two best riders from your manufacturer, and while Quartararo should place strongly, we feel that his fellow M1s won’t be joining him near the top. Both Mir and Rins represent race contenders, and as a result, look most likely to bring in the biggest points haul.
MotoGP™ Fantasy is back and here’s how to get involved!
With six winners in the past six visits to Britain, will we see a new name yet again on the top step of the podium at Silverstone? The weekend’s action gets underway on Friday morning with Free Practice, make sure you tune in then.
Source: MotoGP.com – Read Full Article Here
Ever wondered about how some of the rules and regulations in MotoGP™ work? Well, our ‘MotoGP™ Rules & Regs’ videos have got you covered! So far there’s four interesting and insightful videos on motogp.com in the 2021 series for you to sit back, enjoy watching and learn a little bit more about how the sport we love works.
In the first of the new series, we explain all the technical details surrounding the beginning of a race, and what riders can and can’t do… Watch now!
MotoGP™ Rules & Regs: Race starts
What happens when a rider has an issue on either the sighting lap, the Warm Up lap or on the grid? Race Director Mike Webb explains all. Watch now!
MotoGP™ Rules & Regs: Race start problems
Mike Webb explains why a rider could be handed the penalty, as well as the reasoning behind it. Watch now!
MotoGP™ Rules & Regs: Long Lap Penalty
Mike Webb explains the full protocols behind jump starts. Watch now!
MotoGP™ Rules & Regs: Jump starts
Source: MotoGP.com – Read Full Article Here
Lorenzo, Marquez, Rossi, Viñales, Dovizioso, Rins. Only three of those riders – Marquez, Rossi and Rins – can stop the streak continuing at the 2021 British GP. The top six in the 2021 World Championship are all chasing that first MotoGP™ 25-point haul at Silverstone, and the chances of six winners in six becoming seven winners in seven are somewhat high. Either way, we should be in for a belting British GP weekend.
Source: MotoGP.com – Read Full Article Here
With such a huge advantage in his pocket, the Czech rider holds all the cards. Rossi Moor (FAIRIUM Next Generation Riders Team) is 49 points down so would need to win both races and see Gurecky fail to score in both, and Lorenz Luciano (Junior Black Knights Team), who’s one point further back, would need the same – he’d bring himself equal on points with the Czech rider, but he’d have one more win if he did the double. So the odds are a real long shot, despite the fact it wasn’t the best venue for Gurecky on the NTC’s last visit.
Source: MotoGP.com – Read Full Article Here
MotoGP returns to Silverstone this weekend after a one-year hiatus due to Covid, revisiting one of the fastest and longest (5.9 km) venues on the calendar. Two of the current three category leaders have zero race laps at the British circuit under their belt, making it anyone’s game. Due to the pandemic the 2020 race was cancelled, so this will be only the second visit to the circuit with its new asphalt since it was completely resurfaced in 2019, and it will be held in front of a very welcome full house of spectators following the recent easing of Covid restrictions in England. All MotoGP records were set in 2019 and currently Marc Marquez holds both the race lap record of 1m59.936 and the all-time lap record of 1m58.168. However, the top speed record of 333.3 km/h was set by Cal Crutchlow.
Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) is the rider for whom the italics on zero racing laps apply. The Championship leader does have experience at the track on a MotoGP bike and qualified fourth in 2019, he just didn’t make it further than the exit of Turn 1 after being unsettled by a rider ahead and going down. Could that prove crucial? The track has often been good turf for Yamaha though, especially in the hands of Jorge Lorenzo, so that should be a firm tick in the pro column.
“I‘m starting the British GP with a very positive mood. We extended our championship lead after Spielberg, and Silverstone is a circuit that I really love. We made a big step there in 2019 in terms of performance. I think that this race will be a good one if the conditions are good. If it rains, we’ll have to see, but in any case, we will do our best. My goal is to fight for the victory, firstly because this is one my favourite tracks and secondly because it‘s an important GP for the team.”
Speaking of Yamaha, there will be some different faces in the Iwata stable at Silverstone. Valentino Rossi (Petronas Yamaha SRT) remains, steadfastly on the search for another solid finish as he races at Silverstone for the final time in MotoGP.
“I really like Silverstone; it’s a great track and is one of my favourites. It’s long and has everything there: fast parts, medium ones and it’s very technical in places. Usually we are quite strong there, so hopefully this will be the case again this year, and I hope that we have good weather this weekend. I think the weather forecast is okay at the moment but you have to be ready for everything there – it can start dry and end wet, or only be wet in some places. I’m really looking forward to being back there this weekend.”
Joining Quartararo in the Monster Energy Yamaha garage is now Cal Crutchlow as he moves from filling in for Franco Morbidelli to filling in for Maverick Viñales.
“I am happy to be riding for Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP at the British Grand Prix. It was nice to get back to riding in Austria after a long time off, so I am now looking forward to racing for the Factory Team and working with my Test Team Crew Chief Silvano Galbusera and all of the team members, that I know well.”
That means that there’s a new face joining the ranks to replace Morbidelli: Jake Dixon. The Moto2 rider takes on the premier class for the first time this weekend, and on home turf no less. He has experience on bigger capacity machinery from his days in BSB, but MotoGP is a whole new challenge – and what a track to take on.
Jake Dixon
“This weekend will be difficult, jumping on the big bike for the first time at my home GP, but I’m really looking forward to it. It’s always exciting to be racing at home, but this year it’s going to be extra special. The home support is always amazing there, I love the track and I think it’s going to be a great experience. To have a big crowd there and the knowledge of the circuit is really going to help me this weekend, although I’m obviously not looking for any particular result. I’m just going to go out and enjoy it!”
But back to the top three, and Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) as the aforementioned “outside the top ten as a rookie”. After his storming of the podium late on in Austria though, that is nevertheless some valuable experience to add to his current form heading into the weekend. And Silverstone has been painted Ducati red before. On the hunt for that maiden win, Bagnaia is now the closest challenger to Quartararo but by literally nothing in terms of points, so can he sustain his momentum and stay ahead, or even cut that gap?
“In the last race at the Red Bull Ring, in Austria, we came very close to victory once again, and this confirms that we are working well. Now we are second in the Championship, and it is crucial to continue to be consistent to get as close as possible to the top of the standings. Silverstone is a less favourable track for the characteristics of our bike than Zeltweg, but if we can concentrate from Friday’s free practice onwards, we can be competitive. As always, here in England, the weather will play an important role, so we have to be ready to adapt to any track conditions“.
Johann Zarco (Pramac Racing) will be keen to stop that happening and take back his previous position as top Ducati in the standings. As it is, he’s now second Ducati and fourth overall. He also has the added challenge of not having ridden Silverstone on Borgo Panigale machinery before.
Rookie team-mate Jorge Martin, by definition, is the same, but the number 89 will arrive with a bounce in his step after a win and a podium across two stunning weekends at the Red Bull Ring. And what about Jack Miller (Ducati Lenovo Team)? The Australian had a more muted double header in Austria but he’s the rider in the top five with the most experience of the track on his current machinery, or similar.
“The last two races in Austria didn’t exactly go as we hoped, so we come to Silverstone determined to move on and get a good result. In 2019, in the last GP held here, I had managed to get a front-row start and felt I could do well in the race, but unfortunately, a problem did not allow me to do so. In England, the weather is always uncertain, so we’ll have to work hard from the first sessions to be ready for Sunday’s race under any circumstances.”
Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar), meanwhile, is the rider in the top three heading into a complete unknown. It seems a long time ago now to rewind back to before he was the reigning Champion, but as a rookie in 2019 his season was temporarily derailed by a crash in testing at Brno – and he missed the British GP. So he’s not done a single MotoGP session at the venue, but in some good news, the Suzuki most definitely has.
“Every race this year is tougher because everybody is so competitive, the bikes are pretty equally matched, so it means that we are fighting harder to reach our goals. But as we’ve shown, even at tracks which don’t really suit our bike, like Austria, we’ve achieved good things. Silverstone will be strange and interesting for me because I’ve never ridden here on a MotoGP bike, so it’s been a long time since I’ve attacked the track – I’ll need to keep practicing on the PlayStation!”
The 2019 British GP was an instant classic. There have been a few of those in the last few years, haven’t there? But it truly was, with Alex Rins (Team Suzuki Ecstar) just coming out on top against Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team). Rins has therefore shown the recent strength of the Hamamatsu machine around the venue, even when pitted against the man who took pole by four tenths with a new all-time lap record of a 1:58.168, when not too long ago the question was who would break the two-minute barrier.
Suzuki also won the 2016 event with Maverick Viñales. So the bike has form, can Mir and Rins add more? The reigning Champion will hope so as he stares down the chance to leapfrog Bagnaia, and Rins will too as he goes through a difficult season in 2021 so far.
“I hope I can get a really good result here, but it will be difficult because all the bikes are very close on performance. But anyway I feel that our GSX-RR suits this track well and I really like riding here, so hopefully that will give us a little advantage. The memories from here in 2019 are still so fresh in my mind; it was incredible to win like that after a battle with Marc, and the celebrations with my team were fantastic. My crew have been working really hard this year and I would like to give them another good reason to celebrate!”
So what about Marc Marquez? The eight-time World Champion was the obvious favourite heading into Silverstone the last time we did, but since then he’s been through the biggest upheaval in his career. In Austria, however, he looked like he’d made another step forward in his recovery and his form, able to dice it out at the front for longer than we’ve seen – Germany aside – so far in 2021.
Marquez led the way into pitlane late on at the Red Bull Ring, thinking the rest would follow as he gambled to try and win his second race of the season. And they all did, except one… but more on him later. Marc Marquez will have taken heart from another bit of progress though, so what can he do at Silverstone? And can fellow Honda rider Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu), who impressed in Styria, get back in the mix along with team-mate Alex Marquez (LCR Honda Castrol) and Marc Marquez’ team-mate Pol Espargaro?
“It will be great to see the British fans again after a year away. Racing in Austria with fans in the stands was enjoyable, so I am looking forward to doing it again in England! Our position between the races has not changed, this weekend is again all about working to improve and seeing what’s possible on Sunday. Last race we had the speed and were able to fight, but Silverstone is a very different circuit, and many can be strong there.”
“Let’s see what this weekend in Silverstone can bring us. It’s a long circuit, which is quite different to where we just were. First, we need to understand how the bike is working there and then make our plan for the weekend but the goal is to improve and try to fix the problems we had in Austria. I enjoyed racing in front of fans again last time out, so it’s good news we will do it again this weekend.”
And now, back to the headline stealer in Austria: Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) and another of those instant classics. The South African will arrive on the crest of a wave, and KTM in the midst of what’s become another frontrunning season, but Silverstone is a very different challenge. How will the Austrian factory measure up? The last time MotoGP raced there, a top ten was a realistic target.
Now, they expect far more. So will the step they made from 2019 to 2020 be apparent immediately? Or will less data mean more time needed out the box for both Binder and teammate Miguel Oliveira, who is likewise a race winner this season and will hopefully also be better recovered from his Styrian GP practice crash?
Tech3 KTM Factory Racing’s Danilo Petrucci has fond memories in Great Britain after he clinched his first premier class podium there in 2015. After he scored four points last time out in Austria, the Italian aims to continue to progress aboard his KTM RC16.
“Silverstone is a quite unique track compared to the others. It’s really nice, I always had good memories there, I scored my very first MotoGP podium there in wet conditions. For us now it’s another opportunity to hopefully get some points and good results overall. I definitely can’t wait to be back on my KTM RC16 this weekend!”
With his best ever MotoGP result to date reached at the Red Bull Ring a bit over one week ago, Iker Lecuona arrives in Silverstone highly motivated as well. The Spanish youngster, who saw the flag in sixth in Spielberg, is impatient to be riding his KTM RC16 for the first time at the British track.
“For me it will be the first time in Silverstone with the MotoGP bike, so the target is to learn the track fast and continue to improve. During the last races, I made some good steps forward and felt really good with the bike. We have been fighting for a top 10 result again last time out, so it’s going to be the goal for this weekend as well.”
“It’s a great feeling for the MotoGP paddock to be back in Silverstone, where we haven’t been racing for almost two years. It’s quite difficult to give a prediction of how good we might be there because last time we have been at this place, the bike has been very different to what we have now and Miguel was doing a quite strong race, but he was t-boned by another KTM, which was the end of his 2019 season. So hopefully things will be better, safer and the overall result will be more positive than the one we had in 2019. Last time out, our two riders ended up well inside the points in Austria and I hope this has given a great boost to Danilo’s and Iker’s moral. We really hope both of them will carry on pushing and showing their potential as well as the potential of the KTM RC16. Silverstone is a beautiful circuit, where we always see great racing. It has very fast corners and the last section of the track is always crazy to watch and is always giving the possibility for the final positions in the last lap and especially in this final sector. The British fans are always very enthusiastic and I’m pretty sure they will have missed MotoGP a lot. Therefore, I think everybody is happy to return to Silverstone. Although it’s now out of Europe, which for me is a great shame. Nevertheless, hopefully it will be a great weekend of sport, a great weekend of MotoGP and a great weekend for Tech3 KTM Factory Racing.”
Aprilia likewise arrive with a little less recent data given the gap in events at Silverstone, but the Noale factory also have an RS-GP that was given a complete overhaul. Can they continue to hit the ground running and get in that fight? Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing Team Gresini) was incredibly close to getting that podium last time out before losing ground in the final stages, so the goal will remain that top five finish aka a best in the MotoGP era.
| Pos | Rider | Bike | Bike | Points |
| 1 | Fabio QUARTARARO | Yamaha | FRA | 181 |
| 2 | Francesco BAGNAIA | Ducati | ITA | 134 |
| 3 | Joan MIR | Suzuki | SPA | 134 |
| 4 | Johann ZARCO | Ducati | FRA | 132 |
| 5 | Jack MILLER | Ducati | AUS | 105 |
| 6 | Brad BINDER | KTM | RSA | 98 |
| 7 | Maverick VIÑALES | Yamaha | SPA | 95 |
| 8 | Miguel OLIVEIRA | KTM | POR | 85 |
| 9 | Aleix ESPARGARO | Aprilia | SPA | 67 |
| 10 | Jorge MARTIN | Ducati | SPA | 64 |
| 11 | Marc MARQUEZ | Honda | SPA | 59 |
| 12 | Takaaki NAKAGAMI | Honda | JPN | 55 |
| 13 | Alex RINS | Suzuki | SPA | 44 |
| 14 | Alex MARQUEZ | Honda | SPA | 41 |
| 15 | Pol ESPARGARO | Honda | SPA | 41 |
| 16 | Franco MORBIDELLI | Yamaha | ITA | 40 |
| 17 | Enea BASTIANINI | Ducati | ITA | 31 |
| 18 | Danilo PETRUCCI | KTM | ITA | 30 |
| 19 | Valentino ROSSI | Yamaha | ITA | 28 |
| 20 | Luca MARINI | Ducati | ITA | 27 |
| 21 | Iker LECUONA | KTM | SPA | 24 |
| 22 | Stefan BRADL | Honda | GER | 11 |
| 23 | Dani PEDROSA | KTM | SPA | 6 |
| 24 | Lorenzo SAVADORI | Aprilia | ITA | 4 |
| 25 | Michele PIRRO | Ducati | ITA | 3 |
| 26 | Tito RABAT | Ducati | SPA | 1 |
| 27 | Cal CRUTCHLOW | Yamaha | GBR | 0 |
| 28 | Garrett GERLOFF | Yamaha | USA | 0 |
Source: MCNews.com.au
Ups
Downs
Verdict
You can’t think about modern-day production superbikes and not have the YZF-R1 come to mind. Its MotoGP-derived 998cc inline-four CP4 engine has adrenaline-pumping performance and is tricked out with loads of electronics.
Overview
When it comes to most influential sportbikes, the Yamaha YZF-R1 is one of high standing. Its legendary CP4 inline-four engine has close ties with MotoGP and World Superbike that make it a standout competitor in performance and rideability. The R1 was introduced in 1998 and has been a popular choice for track or street riders looking to hit every apex.
Updates for 2021
There are no updates to the 2021 Yamaha YZF-R1 models.
Pricing and Variants
The 2021 Yamaha YZF-R1 has an MSRP of $17,399 whereas the up-spec YZF-R1M, comes in at $26,099. The M comes in carbon fiber bodywork, has Yamaha’s GPS datalogging system, and Ӧhlins semi-active suspension.
Competition
A competitive spirit rages in the YZF-R1, and it is also present in superbikes like the Aprilia RSV4, BMW S 1000 RR, Ducati Panigale V4, Suzuki GSX-R1000, Kawasaki ZX-10R, Ducati Panigale V4, and Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade.
Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Beneath the YZF-R1′s bodywork is the legendary 998cc inline-four CP4 engine with its MotoGP-driven crossplane crankshaft technology and wicked-sound uneven firing order (270 degrees, 180 degrees, 90 degrees, 180 degrees). It was last updated for the 2020 model year to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, while maintaining power output. It also received a new cableless ride-by-wire throttle system called Accelerator Position Sensor with Grip (APSG).
In our first ride review of the 2020 model, we reported that it “retains the same emotion-stirring power delivery and inspiring crossplane pitch that made the outgoing model so entertaining. Even more impressive: The new cableless throttle eliminates the overly sensitive initial throttle response of the outgoing model, most significantly in the most-aggressive Power Mode A.”
Since then, Motorcyclist’s Adam Waheed completed street testing aboard the up-spec 2021 YZF-R1M, noting its minimal engine vibration and unique sound. “Even better is the engine’s sound, delivering a unique guttural roar that sounds like no other motorcycle made…aside from Valentino Rossi’s YZR-M1 MotoGP prototype,” Waheed wrote. “An electric up-and-down quickshifter makes for immediate gear exchanges between each of the six transmission cogs.”
Handling
Both the Yamaha YZF-R1 and YZF-R1M are sweet handling superbikes with confidence-inspiring characteristics. Stellar feedback and feel have always been standout traits of the Yamaha, and even more so with the updated internal valving and spring rates of the base-model’s KYB suspension in 2020. “The result is a confidence-inspiring feedback in all areas of the racetrack without sacrificing stability under heavy braking loads,” Cycle World Road Test Editor Michael Gilbert reported. “Every lap came with the realization that I could push deeper still into corners.”
The YZF-R1M is outfitted with a top-shelf, gas-charged Ӧhlins NPX fork and shock with Electronic Racing Suspension (ERS) semi-active function. Since its inception on the 2015 model year YZF-R1, lap-to-lap consistency in damping characteristics has improved dramatically, though for sole track riding focus, switching to a manual (or frozen) damping setting is preferred.
Brakes
Both variations of the R1 are stopped by a pair of Advics four-piston calipers clamping to 320mm discs up front and a single-piston caliper grabbing a 220mm out back. Yamaha’s IMU-operated Brake Control System (the bLU cRU’s terminology for ABS) works to quickly and efficiently slow the motorcycle in varying grip conditions.
Secondary to the brakes themselves, Yamaha incorporated a three-level Engine Brake Management (EBM) system in 2020, which allows the ability to tailor off-throttle deceleration characteristics from the engine. It has been a welcomed touch, especially when you’re looking for every ounce of confidence at the racetrack.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The YZF-R1 has a claimed 33 mpg and a 4.5-gallon fuel tank.
Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility
An aggressive, relatively low clip-on handlebar position and attack-position nonadjustable rearsets signal the YZF-R1′s sporting intent. Sure, the setup is racy, but not the most aggressive out there, according to Waheed’s MC Commute. The windscreen is also relatively tall, offering an easy aerodynamic tuck on the straightaways.
Electronics
As is the case with nearly all premium superbike offerings, the Yamaha YZF-R1 is equipped with an extensive list of electronic rider aids that work directly with a six-axis IMU for precise inputs. Switchable aids like the aforementioned EBM function and Power Delivery Modes, the lean-angle-sensitive Traction Control System, Slide Control System, Lift Control, and a bidirectional quickshifter are technologies derived directly from Yamaha’s racing efforts to enhance the performance of the YZF-R1. A Launch Control function is also equipped if you’re ready for your local club race.
Overall, the electronics’ level of precision has also been a highlight of the R1. The 5-inch TFT display is growing relatively small by the standards set by some competition, but it is the host of an otherwise awesome package.
The up-spec YZF-R1M also is equipped with Yamaha’s Communication Control Unit, enabling smartphone connectivity via the Y-Trac app. Here, you can overlay 16 different data channels—including gear position, lean angle, front and rear brake pressure, throttle percentage, rpm, speed, and more—to study and improve your on-track riding, though we’ve found the app to be somewhat difficult to use.
Finally, a separate YRC app allows the adjustability of the Ӧhlins and electronic rider aids via a built-in Wi-Fi communicator. Dial in your preferred settings, then save it for use later on.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Both the 2021 R1 and R1M come with a one-year, limited factory warranty.
Quality
There is a lot to love about the YZF-R1. Evolutional updates to an astounding platform originally introduced in 2015 kept it a top-tier superbike. The R1M, dressed in that delightfully carbon fiber bodywork and up-spec suspension, takes it a step further.
2021 Yamaha YZF-R1/M Claimed Specifications
| MSRP: | $17,399 (base)/$26,099 (R1M) |
| Engine: | 998cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled inline-4; 16-valve |
| Bore x Stroke: | 79.0 x 50.9mm |
| Transmission/Final Drive: | 6-speed/chain |
| Fuel Delivery: | Fuel injection w/ YCC-T and Y-CCI |
| Clutch: | Wet, multiplate slipper/assist; cable actuation |
| Engine Management/Ignition: | N/A |
| Frame: | Twin-spar aluminum |
| Front Suspension: | 43mm KYB USD fork (base)/43mm Öhlins NPX inverted fork (R1M), fully adjustable; 4.7 in. travel |
| Rear Suspension: | KYB shock (base)/Öhlins gas-charged shock (R1M), fully adjustable; 4.7 in. travel |
| Front Brake: | Radial-mount 4-piston calipers, 320mm discs w/ ABS |
| Rear Brake: | 1-piston floating caliper, 220mm disc w/ ABS |
| Wheels, Front/Rear: | Die-cast magnesium; 17 x 3.5 in. / 17 x 6.0 in. |
| Tires, Front/Rear: | Bridgestone Battlax RS11; 120/70-17 / 190/55-17 (base), 200/55-17 (R1M) |
| Rake/Trail: | 24.0°/4.0 in. |
| Wheelbase: | 55.3 in. |
| Ground Clearance: | 5.1 in. |
| Seat Height: | 33.7 in. (base)/33.9 in. (R1M) |
| Fuel Capacity: | 4.5 gal. |
| Wet Weight: | 448 lb. (base)/450 lb. (R1M) |
| Contact: | yamaha-motor.com |
Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com
Having a full-time job and racing in the Alpinestars Superbike class of the mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul, is more than a full-time job in itself, let alone taking on the extra responsibilities of owning and running a team with an additional two riders who compete in three classes. But that is exactly what Victoria’s Jed Metcher does and he wouldn’t have it any other way.
Metcher, 31, is no stranger to ASBK fans, having had great success in Australian Championships spanning over two decades. He has competed in the 125cc and Supersport classes in the early 2000’s, raced at World Superbike, MotoGP and dominated overseas winning the 2011 European Superstock 600 Championship.
In late 2019, he set about not only organising a permanent Superbike ride for himself, but successfully developed the Metcher Motorsport team which had its debut at ASBK in 2020.
Metcher runs a three-bike team. Himself aboard a Yamaha R1 in the Superbike class, and manages and mentors two young guns in South Australian Ty Lynch in the Motorsports TV Supersport class aboard a Yamaha YZF-R6, and New Zealander Caleb Gilmore on a Yamaha YZF-R3 in the Dunlop Supersport 300 class and Yamaha Finance R3 Cup.
In 2020 Metcher scored a top ten finish, while Gilmore and Lynch, because of COVID-19 restrictions were unable to attend the final two rounds which ended their chances of a top ten finish.
Nearly two years on from setting up the team, Metcher has a committed crew and strong sponsorship support including Siemec, Yamaha, YRD, Valid Technologies, Fusport, YamaLube, Plus Racing, and Kabuto Helmets which have helped him break into the top ten of the Championship this year and now sits in 9th place.
As a team owner/manager/rider, Metcher still pinches himself at the success his team has had in such a short period, and yet he still has goals to achieve.
“It is a dream that we get to do something that a lot of people would want to do,” said Metcher.
“Having the team all be so excited on race weekend and everyone being happy and laughing that’s our win before we even get to win races. We want the team to be relaxed. That helps us attract sponsors as people want to be involved in it.
“We have great support from Siemec who love being part of the team, they are a perfect fit, and we have a lot of support from Yamaha as well who are helping us develop the bikes and their support will continue into next year.
“It was always the goal to have a three-rider team and to be in a position where we are doing well is great.
“We are getting there now, I’ve recently been up in Queensland doing some testing and we have Stewart Winton helping us out, and he’s a massive wealth of knowledge as former crew chief to Josh Brookes – he has won a few championships.”
“It’s tough, I’m a tradie and I work hard during the week, do as as much exercise as I can after work and put in a lot of hours on the team as well.
“The secret ingredient is passionate people who are willing to put in time and effort. The reward is we love what we do, and we want to be involved.
“Everybody has a day job, Dad is our key guy, and he maintains the team, bikes and truck and does the elbow grease jobs.
“We have people who are passionate and love the sport and want to be involved in the team and Siemec have been a savior for us.
“I’ve been able to step back and appreciate what we have now, which I never use to do. I enjoy the weekends and being with everyone and working with the young guys.”
Working with his two younger team-mates in Caleb Gilmore and Ty Lynch, is a chance for Metcher to also give back to the sport and help grow the talent here in Australia.
“Working with Caleb and Ty is amazing, it’s part of the race meeting I really enjoy, especially seeing them progress.
“Ty had a really good pre-season, and was really fast, he is one of the elite riders in the same way that Troy Herfoss is, he is super fit.
“Ty is recovering physically, and he’s been on the bike a couple of times but its going to be hard for him. I hope that he is back to full strength this year.
“Caleb has come forward in leaps and bounds, and he is top three material. He’s matured in the last three months and has come a long way and definitely has the pace.”
For Metcher himself, while he has made progress, he expects more from himself in 2021. He sees fellow Yamaha rider Arthur Sissis as strong competition and the one to beat in regards to the privateers.
“We still have a way to go with the Yamaha R1, but are making good progress.
“At Winton we should have been 4th or 5th, at Wakefield we struggled, and Darwin which I hadn’t been to before was a little tricky.
“Arthur Sissis is doing a great job, and the thing is a rocket ship with him on it. If we can compete with Arthur, and finish 4th or 5th then we’ve done a really good job.
“I think we will get a run on now, we have found a few things this week with testing the bike and that is certainly going to help us.”
Metcher is full of praise for the ASBK Championship, and particularly the growth in the junior ranks.
“The last couple of years the Championship is really moving forward well. ASBK is doing an amazing job with Facebook and TV live coverage and social media, it’s given it a lot better reach, it’s amazing, and that’s what we need.
“The 300 class 100 per cent has reignited the Championship.
“ASBK has brought in an affordable class, that has opened up a whole new avenue for riders, where we now have motocross kids coming across.
“There are now 40-50 kids who all have Yamaha R3s who want to race each other, and it is super competitive.
“Obviously the cream rises to the top, and when they switch to 600s, they have learnt race craft and are fast. That’s one of the reasons why ASBK has so many fast kids today.”
Metcher will next year have a three rider team again as he hopes to develop his younger riders further as well as chase Championship glory himself, in the mean-time it’s back to further testing his Yamaha machinery in the hope to get the best out of the machines before the mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul, fires back into action.
| 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 |
Source: MCNews.com.au
