BMW Motorrad Announces Partnership With Marshall Sound Systems

BMW is getting a slight upgrade to their sound systems – and as a musician and a rider, I am 100% behind this one. 

The German company is collaborating with renowned sound equipment manufacturer Marshall to boost the sound systems for future BMW motorcycles. Check out the above video release for more information. 

The Word is that the upgrades will likely go to the Heritage Line, specifically the R Nine T and R18 models – though it would be amazing if they were able to deck out newer members of the showroom with the ability to upgrade as well (looking at you, S1000RR). 

A view of the BMW Heritage Line

Obviously, a couple of questions come to mind with all this information. 

What will the sound system look like? Will the collab give us oldies, boombox-style speakers? Low-profile earphones? Mountable Bluetooth connectors, or perhaps even an entire system specific to BMW helmets

A view of the BMW R Nine T
A view of the BMW R Nine T – one of the bikes likely to get the new BMW/Marshall sound system

BMW has yet to say, though it’s likely the system will match the style of the Heritage Line and pull a retro number for the crowd. 

The best part about this press release for me is that the release date for the sound systems is July 29. So soon!

A side profile of the BMW R18 - one of the bikes likely to get the Marshall sound system upgrade
A view of the BMW R18 – one of the bikes likely to get the new BMW/Marshall sound system

A scant 8 days from now, you could be bouncing in your desk chair, ordering a BMW/Marshall sound system while humming ‘Born To Be Wild’ – a notable example of the perfect combination of music and motorcycles. 

Ride on, update your favorite music playlist, and make sure to check back for updates.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

2021 Thai GP cancelled

The FIM, IRTA and Dorna Sports regret to announce the cancellation of the OR Thailand Grand Prix, which was set to take place at Chang International Circuit from the 15th to the 17th of October. Despite the best efforts of all parties involved, the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and resulting restrictions have obliged the cancellation of the event. 

Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here

Season so far: Italian Grand Prix

Victory number four of 2021 for Fabio Quartararo but the paddock’s thoughts were firmly with the family and friends of Jason Dupasquier

Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP’s Fabio Quartararo claimed a commanding and emotional Gran Premio d’Italia Oakley victory to extend his World Championship lead to 24 points, as Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) crashed out on Lap 2. Miguel Oliveira (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) and reigning World Champion Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar) completed the Mugello podium.

MotoGP™ GRID PAY THEIR CONDOLENCES TO JASON

MotoGP™ riders share memories and condolences for Dupasquier

A somber Italian Grand Prix was secondary following the tragic passing of Jason Dupasquier. The Swiss teenager was well-liked and respected throughout the paddock with the MotoGP™ grid coming together before the race and then speaking afterward on a dark day for our sport.

ZARCO AND BASTIANINI EXPLAIN WARM UP LAP CLASH

What happened between Zarco and Bastianini pre-race?

In a baffling moment before the Mugello race even got underway, Ducati’s Johann Zarco and Enea Bastianini came together as they were about to line-up on the grid. Bastianini was sent over the top of his Avintia Esponsorama machine, with the pair explaining what happened above.

UNSEEN: ROSSI MAKES TOP 10 RETURN AT HOME

UNSEEN: Rossi’s relief at making top ten return on home soil

It’s no secret that The Doctor has struggled in the opening half of 2021, with his one shining light coming on home soil at the Italian Grand Prix. Our cameras followed the final laps from the Petronas Yamaha SRT box as Rossi’s team celebrate his return to the top ten.

MUUUUGELLO: ROSSI EXPLAINS HIS HELMET DESIGN

Muuugello: Rossi explains legen-dairy helmet design

It wouldn’t be Mugello without Valentino Rossi unveiling a special, one-off helmet design. And his 2021 edition didn’t disappoint with the 42-year-old cracking a ten out of ten Dad joke. Let the man himself talk you through the design plus his best impression of a cow.

Every practice session, qualifying battle and race, exclusive interviews, historic races and so much more fantastic content: this is VideoPass!

Source: MotoGP.comRead Full Article Here

2022 Yamaha YZF-R7

2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 (Team Yamaha Blue).

2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 (Team Yamaha Blue). (Yamaha/)

Ups

  • A fresh take at the outdated and expensive middleweight supersport market
  • Well-balanced and addictive power via the CP2 powerplant
  • Confidence-boosting and quick-handling chassis
  • Approachable for newer and experienced riders alike
  • Great visibility of dash information
  • An enticing $8,999 price tag

Downs

  • Vague communication at the brake lever
  • Lack of positive shift feel during gear changes

Verdict

With the tractable engine seen in the Ténéré 700 and MT-07, the R7 is a well-balanced machine for a great time at the track. It has confidence-boosting characteristics that make it appropriate for riders ranging in skill level.

2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 (Performance Black).

2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 (Performance Black). (Yamaha/)

Overview

The new Yamaha YZF-R7 is the bLU cRU’s answer to the sales slump in the middleweight sportbike category. It houses the same 689cc parallel twin seen in the Ténéré 700 and MT-07, but is a fully faired and sport-focused option that replaces the outgoing R6. The new R7 targets the less experienced sportbike rider with its relatively affordable $8,999 price tag and all-new character.

Updates for 2022

This is a new model for the 2022 model year.

Pricing and Variants

The 2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 has a starting MSRP of $8,999.

Competition

The YZF-R7′s competition includes Aprilia’s RS 660, Ducati’s Panigale V2, Suzuki’s SV650, Kawasaki’s Ninja 650, and Honda’s CBR650R.

Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The fun-loving, tractable 689cc parallel-twin engine and six-speed transmission make its way into the R7. The YZF-R7-specific slipper/assist clutch is claimed to reduce clutch pull by 20 percent. The lack of positive shift feel during gear changes is one gripe our test rider had during testing. And while power figures are not currently recorded, the MT-07 was run on the dyno and produced 67 peak horsepower and 46 pound-feet of torque and the R7 is expected to make the same. In his first ride review, Road Test Editor Michael Gilbert commented on the engine saying, “The power delivery is broad, the speed is exciting without being intimidating, and without massive horsepower to fall back on, rider skill in carrying corner speed is necessary to making good time. Smooth is fast.”

2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 (Team Yamaha Blue)

2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 (Team Yamaha Blue) (Yamaha/)

Handling

Differentiating the R7 chassis from the MT-07 are slightly revised dimensions, specifically, the rake is now 23.7 degrees, trail is 3.5 inches, and triple clamp offset is now 35mm. Overall this shortens the wheelbase by 5mm. Aluminum braces at the swingarm pivot increase torsional rigidity as well. Gilbert reported that the chassis “boosts confidence in a way even track-prepped MT-07s couldn’t. At a claimed 414 pounds fully fueled, the YZF-R7 is 8 pounds heavier than the MT, but is more nimble and more than willing to tackle quick side-to-side transitions and midcorner corrections. It also does so without requiring serious upper body strength to capitalize on its sporty handling”

Brakes

The R7 features a newly designed Brembo master cylinder paired with Advics radial-mounted calipers and 298mm discs at the front. 245mm discs are located out back. Nonswitchable ABS comes standard. Braking performance is reported to be strong, but feel at the lever struggles to precisely communicate brake pressure, Gilbert wrote.

2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 (Performance Black).

2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 (Performance Black). (Yamaha/)

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Yamaha claims that this supersport racks in 58 mpg from the 3.4-gallon fuel tank.

Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility

According to Yamaha, the R7 is the slimmest in its sportbike lineup. Gilbert concurred on its narrowness in his report: “It’s tight between the legs and an appropriate fit for my racer-sized 5-foot-7-inch frame. The aggressive control position is also favorable; modeled after the outgoing YZF-R6, the lower stance is sporty and allows the R7 to be hustled underneath you, while the clip-on handlebars are positioned slightly higher to reduce fatigue, a positive for everyday street riding.”

2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 (Performance Black).

2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 (Performance Black). (Yamaha/)

Electronics

LED lighting is found at both the front and the rear and a new LCD dash displays information such as gear position, fuel capacity, real time and average fuel economy, water temp, clock, speed-, tach-, and odometers all operated from handlebar switches.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

The R7 has a one-year limited factory warranty.

Quality

Quality is as you would expect from Yamaha. The R7 offers a balance of power and an approachability that makes it a fitting replacement for the outgoing R6.

2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 (Team Yamaha Blue).

2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 (Team Yamaha Blue). (Yamaha/)

2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 Claimed Specifications

MSRP: $8,999
Engine: 689cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled parallel twin; 4 valves/cyl.
Bore x Stroke: 80.0 x 68.6mm
Transmission/Final Drive: 6-speed/chain
Fuel Delivery: Fuel injection w/ 38mm throttle bodies
Clutch: Wet, multiplate assist/slipper
Engine Management/Ignition: N/A
Frame: Tubular-steel double backbone
Front Suspension: 41mm KYB inverted fork, fully adjustable; 5.1 in. travel
Rear Suspension: KYB shock, spring preload and rebound adjustable; 5.1 in. travel
Front Brake: 4-piston Advics calipers, dual 298mm discs w/ ABS
Rear Brake: 1-piston Nissin caliper, 245mm disc w/ ABS
Wheels, Front/Rear: 17 in. / 17 in.
Tires, Front/Rear: Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22; 120/70-17 / 180/55-17
Rake/Trail: 23.7°/3.5 in.
Wheelbase: 54.9 in.
Ground Clearance: 5.3 in.
Seat Height: 32.9 in.
Fuel Capacity: 3.4 gal.
Wet Weight: 414 lb.
Contact: yamaha-motor.com

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

The Long Way to Wauchope | Part 1 | Buying a T7 & Setting Off

Long Way to Wauchope

With Mark Battersby


I still have dust collecting on my ’80s and ’90s Paris to Dakar VHS tapes I watched over and over as a teenager, dreaming of one day owning a high performance desert crossing machine.

Somehow road bikes found their way into my life, and a 10-year stint living in the USA saw me seduced by the dark side, owning several Harleys and immersing myself in the culture of orange and black merchandise.

While HD took me to some amazing places and events (like the insane Sturgis Rally), adventure was calling and I wanted to blast across deserts, explore forest trails and jump endless cattle grids.

I loved the ‘Rally Ready’ look of the much touted Yamaha Tenere 700

Fast forward a few years the big 5-0 hit and I was no closer to living out my dream. I was missing two key ingredients; an adventure bike and the skills to ride one. While I had several hundred thousand kilometres on road bikes, I’d never owned a true dirt bike.

Choosing the bike proved the easy part as I loved the ‘Rally Ready’ look of the much touted Yamaha Tenere 700. Of course finding one was the real challenge. As luck had it, I went bike shopping on my 50th birthday to a local Yamaha Dealer and as I walked in I saw two Teneres sitting on the floor, naturally assuming one was a demo and the other was sold.

The salesman was unsure when asked, looked up the details and then muttered the words, “It doesn’t appear to be allocated yet.” My credit card went down like a fat kid on a seesaw and she was mine.

So what now? I’m still missing the skills and of course I need all the accessories to at least look the part. I dove into YouTube and every Facebook group I could, immersing myself in information overload.

Two months later the bike is fitted with the necessary bling to look cool at my local coffee shop; bash plate, crash bars, Barkbusters, pannier racks and more. However the embarrassing reality was my T7 only had a pathetic 200 km on her and I had no idea where to ride or whom to ride with.

The Tenere 700 prior to fitting all the bling

During my research I discovered there was a dedicated Tenere 700 Four-Day Off-Road Navigation Rally staged by RideADV that promised adventure and exploration. It sounded perfect, if somewhat daunting, but there was one downside. The starting point was in Wauchope, NSW some 1,800 km away from my home in the Barossa Valley in SA.

The event was run by Greg Yager and his RideADV team and I had become a fan of their unedited and down to earth YouTube videos comparing various Tenere 700 accessories. A few Facebook messages, emails and phone calls and Greg had assured me it was going to be a great event and tapped into my just-do-it personality.

The clock was ticking as it was now less than two weeks before the Rally commenced, and I was far from prepared. As I read through the pre-rally notes I started to realise just how under-prepared I was.

‘No 50/50 tyres permitted’, ‘No soft sided adventure boots’ (more on this later) and being a GPS Navigation ride I kind of needed a GPS. A few more calls to Greg and I had tyres being shipped to Wauchope and a GPS ordered. Suddenly I realised I needed camping gear, an adventure helmet and I’d be away for the mandatory 1,000 km service so I need to have that done early.

Only days prior to departure and I still had no idea which route I was going to take to arrive at Wauchope. It just felt wrong to take a bike like the T7 on a 1,800 km bitumen ride, so I reached out to various Facebook groups seeking ideas for scenic off-road routes, which proved to be extremely helpful.

Sunday departure was aborted due to lack of preparation and was pushed back to noon on Monday. I suddenly felt a wave of anxiety, ‘What are you doing Mark? You’ve never owned a dirt bike, you don’t know which way you’re going, your riding solo and you don’t know anyone at the rally,’ I asked myself.

My partner came home for lunch to wish me good luck and take the necessary departure photos. I could sense the concerned look on her face as I rode off.

There was a couple of must-do stops, including to DMK Design

I only had two deadlines, be in Mudgee Friday morning to have custom Dakar graphics fitted by DMK Design, and Wauchope Saturday morning for pre-rally scrutineering.


Day 1

Day one saw me heading towards to Renmark and depending on time, the recommended ‘Rufus River Road’ passing Lake Victoria, testing my new gear as I went. I’d fitted a GoPro to my helmet and had been given a drone by my brother and sister as a 50th present, but had no idea how to use either of them.

I started to get used to the riding position and feel comfortable on the bike, only having amassed 600 km prior to departure. The run to Renmark was easy especially with my gel seat topper fitted and I felt like I was just on a really easy to ride road bike.

In contrast, as I turned onto Rufus River Road I realised this was going to be my first dirt sections. I was excited but also somewhat apprehensive. My naivety or ignorance saw me maintain 30+ PSI on my Pirelli STR tyres.

Confidence started to build on the loose gravel surface and my speed climbed accordingly. Suddenly I was exactly where I’d dreamed of, blasting across wide open plains, awkwardly standing on the pegs on a beautiful evening with the sun setting behind me.

The road surface changes, and the front wheel wandered as I hit a sandy stretch. My off-road inexperience saw me do all the wrong things, I slowed abruptly and landed my butt on the seat. All ended well, as I pulled to the side of the track, reminded myself what I’d read about sand riding, and took off again.

It’s amazing how quickly I regain my confidence, no doubt motivated by the spectacular scenery as I passed Lake Victoria and continued towards Wentworth. I glanced in my mirrors to witness a stunning orange glow at sunset and thought this was a great opportunity to stop and grab a few pics of my Tenere 700 on dirt roads instead of outside cafes in the Barossa Valley.

Rufus River Road, heading into Wentworth

It’s about an hour after sunset as I ride into Wentworth to grab some fuel and find some accommodation. After settling on the main street motel that adjoins a busy looking pub, I decide to reward myself with few beverages and a pub feed. My advice when stopping at pubs is to ask, what’s great on the menu? – lets face it they want you to have a great meal. The special was steak and giant onion rings, and it lived up to its reputation being an Instagram worthy dish. Day one done, and no idea where I was heading on day two…

Some late night research and suggestions from Facebook adventure groups had me eyeing the Darling River Run visiting towns dotted along this route. The days riding was coming together when I read a disclaimer in one group, “Do not attempt after rain as clay roads will be impassable.”

A quick Bureau of Meteorology review revealed heavy rain and storms in the area, and with my ADV skills being at the shallower end of the mud pit, this route was quickly discarded.

An alternative trip materialised thanks to another Facebook member, “Ever seen the Mad Max Museum at Silverton?”. ‘Seriously Mark?’ I said to myself. I’ve been a Mad Max fan since my teen years, and I’ve never been there – this was a must visit!

The Mad Max Museum seemed a worthy attraction to add to the list

My eyes wandered further up the map seeing where this would take me. Suddenly in the back of mind was what seemed like a CRAZY suggestion from the early stage of my planning, Cameron Corner. The theme of this trip was going to be unplanned, spontaneous and adventurous, so let’s head north – maybe.

Day 1: Total kilometres: 400.  Highlight: Rufus River Road. Must do: Wentworth Pub.

Stay tuned for Day 2….

Source: MCNews.com.au

Super Soco’s CPx full size electric scooter arrives

Super Soco CPx full size electric scooter arrives


Super Soco’s CPx is now arriving in Australia. The CPx is the brands first full-size, high output electric scooter and you can check it out now at your local dealership, assuming you’re not in lockdown!

Super Soco CPx

The CPx has already proven itself as a successful model in the UK and has been designed from the ground up to meet the needs of the urban professional and the CPx is now Britain’s top selling scooter.

The CPx lands in Australia from $7690 Ride Away.

Super Soco CPx

A 16” front and 14” rear wheel set-up promises stable and smooth handling paired with supple suspension.

The single disc front and rear are linked by a combined braking system which means that only one finger is required to activate both brakes.

Braking comes via a pair of disc brakes which are linked via CBS for added safety.

A screen and luggage rack are included as standard.

Super Soco CPx

Four-kW of emission free power provides performance comparable to 125 cc scooter and the CPX comes standard with a single removable Lithium Ion ATL pouch cell battery that provides a range of over 60 kilometres.  A full recharge is possible in just 3-4 hours via the standard charging system.  A second battery can be fitted that will double that range and is a $2300 option.  Top speed is quoted as 90 km/h.

Super Soco CPx

The CPx comes installed with an advanced battery management system to keep your batteries in peak condition for longer. USB charging is available to keep you connected on the go and the CPx also benefits from a reverse function to help you manoeuvre easily into even the tightest of spots. Keyless ignition, an in-built alarm and a wheel locking function are all standard features.

Super Soco CPx

The CPx will be available in three colours including Sonic Silver, Titanium Grey and Phantom Black, from $7,690 Ride-Away.

For more information check out the Super Soco Australia website (vmotosoco.com.au).

Source: MCNews.com.au

KTM reveals RC 8C racing prototype | 128 hp | 140 kg

KTM RC 8C Racing Prototype


KTM RC 8C racing prototype

KTM have just taken the covers off their RC 8C racing prototype, a machine developed in partnership with Krämer Motorcycles and dedicated to track performance. The RC 8C boasts some impressive figures, including a 140 kg dry weight, 128 hp power figure matched to dedicated race components and a bespoke frame. The price for Australia is yet to be announced and the pre-ordering process opens later this week.

The KTM RC 8C racing prototype will weigh just 140 kg dry

The engine is the same unit seen in the 890 Duke R but with different intake and engine management systems. With the benefit of it being a production engine this means maintenance, parts availability and tuning can all be done relatively easily in comparison to most dedicated track based machines.

The engine in the KTM RC 8C racing prototype comes from the 890 Duke R

The engine will produce 101 Nm of torque from the 889 cc LC8c powerplant and benefits from a special airbox and Twin Air filter combo and incorporates a ram air intake on the upper fairing.

Akrapovič titanium muffler

Krämer Motorcycles are responsible for a built for purpose stainless steel racing exhaust which incorporates a Akrapovič titanium muffler with carbon end cap. There will be an optional 98 dBA muffler that is purchasable separately for those with stricter regulations locally.

AIM MXS 1.2 RACE dashboard and data logger

The KTM RC 8C will also run a full factory AIM MXS 1.2 RACE dashboard and data logger, including GPS integrations, with a 5″ TFT display also including data recording and totally programmable as to what can be displayed, including ECU settings engine stats and live lap info. Logged data can also be analysed in AIM RaceStudio at no additional cost.

ChroMoly steel frame and integrated fuel tank and subframe

On the chassis side of things is the dedicated race frame, a unit with adjustable 66.7° steering head angle and 98.6 mm trail, with the bike running a 1400 mm wheelbase.

Suspension is by WP, with Apex Pro 7543 close cartridge forks with full adjustability, alongside an adjustable Apex Pro 7117 steering damper, which is the same unit run by WP supported race teams.

WP Apex Pro 7543 close cartridge forks & Apex Pro 7117 steering damper

At the rear is a WP Apex Pro 7746 shock with preload adjuster and high and low rebound and compression settings, while Dymag UP7X forged aluminium wheels are run, with a 3.50 x 17 in front and 6.00 x 17 in rear, clad in Pirelli Superbike Racing slicks. Standard fitment is a 120/70 – 17 front and 180/60 – 17 rear, however a 200/55 rear can also be used.

Dymag UP7X forged aluminium rims

Brembo Stylema calipers are mated to 290 mm full-floating aluminium rotors on the front, with a 230 mm unit on the rear and Brembo two-piston caliper. Controlling the front brakes is a Brembo 19RCS Corsa Corta radial master-cylinder, with MotoGP inspired design that includes three settings – Normal, Sport and Race.

Brembo Stylema calipers on 290 mm front rotors, with a carbon-fibre front guard

Styling is based on the RC16 racer, carrying the iconic KTM styling, with a focus on easy removal and installation, ideal for trackside work, as well as incorporating crash protection for the most at risk areas when pushing the limits at the track.

Styling on the KTM RC 8C racing prototype is based on the RC16

This includes quick release GRP body panels, with a carbon fibre front fender including quick change system, and RC16 style winglets for high speed stability.

Crash protection is incorporated into the design of the KTM RC 8C racing prototype

Integrated crash protection includes crash pads on the frame, forks and swingarm, as well as on both sides of the 16 L fuel tank which is integrated into the seat unit. The tank therefore functions as rear subframe and seat as well, and includes a click-on fuel line connector for easy draining.

The fuel cap is found in the tail

On the rider ergonomics side of things, there’s CNC machined footrest holders which are adjustable across 66 mm in three steps and run interchangeable pegs. An eccentric subframe mount also allows for two seat heights, alongside ride height adjustment via length adjustment of the WP shock.

Standard foot controls are adjustable

Adjustable CNC machined handlebar clamps include laser engraved markings for easy positioning, and there’s 30 degrees of adjustment, with 25 mm of height and 30 mm of width adjustability.

The clip-on bars on the KTM RC 8C racing prototype likewise offer a wide range of adjustability

The adjustable headstock offers a degree of adjustment in each direction in half degree steps, while the fork offset can be adjusted between 26 and 28 mm.

KTM RC 8C racing prototype
KTM RC 8C racing prototype fully adjustable WP shock
KTM RC 8C racing prototype Brembo RCS19 master-cylinder
KTM RC 8C racing prototype
KTM RC 8C racing prototype
KTM RC 8C racing prototype

Images by Rudi Schedl & Fotografie Mitterbauer

Source: MCNews.com.au

2021 Yamaha YZ450FX

2021 Yamaha YZ450FX (Team Yamaha Blue).

2021 Yamaha YZ450FX (Team Yamaha Blue). (Yamaha/)

Ups

  • Strong four-stroke engine is responsive and sees weight-saving changes
  • Dialing in engine mapping can be done via the Yamaha Power Tuner app
  • Chassis is stable and offers a planted feeling
  • Range of handlebar adjustment

Downs

  • Stiffer suspension spring rates may be necessary for riders weighing more than 150 pounds
  • Stock seat is not ideal for taller riders, but taller seat foam options are available
  • Air filter surface area is small and requires more frequent maintenance<br/>

Verdict

The YZ450FX is derived from the highly praised YZ450F motocrosser. Its responsive power can be fine-tuned with the Power Tuner app and its stable chassis and improved cornering ability make it a contender in off-road competition.

2021 Yamaha YZ450FX (Team Yamaha Blue).

2021 Yamaha YZ450FX (Team Yamaha Blue). (Yamaha/)

Overview

The Yamaha YZ450FX is designed for off-road competitions like Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) and Hare Scramble races. It is heavily derived from its motocross sibling, the YZ450F, but comes with a wide-ratio transmission, off-road-specific ECU mapping, softer suspension spring rates, a larger-capacity fuel tank, composite engine guard, 18-inch rear wheel, sealed O-ring chain, fuel level warning indicator, folding aluminum kickstand, and Dunlop Geomax MX3S tires. Whether tackling tight wooded courses or hilly terrain, the YZ450FX is the bLU cRU’s most capable off-road race weapon.

Updates for 2021

Seeing how it experiences updates one year after its motocross counterpart, the latest YZ450FX now has a lighter and more compact cylinder head, different camshafts, new piston, longer connecting rod, larger exhaust head pipe connector, and more efficient breather system. The frame and suspension settings have also been revised. Brake changes consist of a new, more rigid front caliper and compact rear caliper work with new pads and discs.

Pricing and Variants

The 2021 Yamaha YZ450FX is priced at $9,699 and is available in Team Yamaha Blue.

Competition

Key competitors of the YZ450FX include the Honda CRF450RX, Husqvarna FX 450, and KTM 450 XC-F. Others from the 450cc cross-country segment include the GasGas EX 450F and Kawasaki KX450X.

Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Yamaha’s 450 off-road racer is powered by a 449cc liquid-cooled four-stroke that has unique off-road-specific ECU mapping which can be fine-tuned via Yamaha’s Power Tuner app. On our in-house dyno, the FX measured 53 hp and 32.9 pound-feet of torque. After taking it out in the field, test rider Allan Brown wrote that “the power is very responsive and the seat-of-the-pants torque is amazing.” He continued: “The YZ450FX may not pull as long in the rpm range as a KTM 450 XC-F or Honda CRF450RX, but it will easily outdo all of its competition in terms of torque feel.”

2021 Yamaha YZ450FX (Team Yamaha Blue).

2021 Yamaha YZ450FX (Team Yamaha Blue). (Yamaha/)

Handling

In regard to its chassis and handling, Brown wrote that the FX “has a stable chassis with good cornering ability and a very distinct feel; you quickly realize it is still a full-on competition bike while riding off-road.”

Equipped with a KYB Speed Sensitive System (SSS) 48mm coil-spring fork and KYB shock, the FX flaunts motocross-like settings but with softer springs. Since the FX is 8 pounds heavier than its motocross counterpart, it tends to ride low in the stroke. This can give a false impression of it being stiff, but if you are a rider who weighs less than 150 pounds it might be OK, Brown reports.

“The suspension action is smooth and predictable throughout and offers good stability and control. Only on the biggest of impacts is there any concern of overloading it. We made some adjustments that yielded noticeable improvements in performance and comfort by stiffening the compression and opening the rebound front and rear.”

Brakes

The FX’s brakes have been updated for the 2021 model year. The front Nissin two-piston caliper houses larger 25.4mm pistons. The brake pads are also 22.3 percent larger and make contact with the new front rotor. The rear brake rotor is now 5mm smaller than the previous generation and Yamaha claims the new caliper and hanger assembly are lighter.

2021 Yamaha YZ450FX (Team Yamaha Blue).

2021 Yamaha YZ450FX (Team Yamaha Blue). (Yamaha/)

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Its 2.2-gallon fuel tank is on par with its cross-country competitions’ tank sizes.

Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility

With four-position-adjustable handlebar clamps, the FX’s offers a total of 36.5mm of fore and aft handlebar adjustability. Overall, Brown states that a 5-foot-10 or shorter rider will fit very well on this bike, but taller riders may want to opt for taller seat foam. Yamaha has a fully assembled unit that is 0.75-inch taller than stock.

2021 Yamaha YZ450FX (Team Yamaha Blue).

2021 Yamaha YZ450FX (Team Yamaha Blue). (Yamaha/)

Electronics

Engine mapping can be adjusted via the Power Tuner app and preloaded maps are selectable with the handlebar-mounted switch. The engine is electronically fuel injected and the motorcycle is started with a press on the electric starter button which Brown reported starts up quickly in neutral or in gear.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

The YZ450FX comes with a 30-day limited factory warranty.

Quality

Overall, our test riders find that the YZ450FX is in fact not “big and lazy,” rather it is comprised of a stable chassis and a monster of an engine, and has a planted feeling and good cornering ability.

2021 Yamaha YZ450FX (Team Yamaha Blue).

2021 Yamaha YZ450FX (Team Yamaha Blue). (Yamaha/)

2021 Yamaha YZ450FX Claimed Specifications

MSRP: $9,699
Engine: 449cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled single-cylinder; 4 valves
Bore x Stroke: 97.0 x 60.9mm
Transmission/Final Drive: 5-speed/chain
Fuel Delivery: EFI w/ 44mm throttle body
Clutch: Wet, multiplate; cable actuation
Engine Management/Ignition: N/A
Frame: Bilateral beam aluminum
Front Suspension: KYB Speed Sensitive System (SSS) coil-spring fork, compression and rebound damping adjustable; 12.2 in. travel
Rear Suspension: KYB shock, spring preload, high-/low-speed compression damping, and rebound damping adjustable; 12.5 in. travel
Front Brake: Nissin 2-piston caliper, 270mm disc
Rear Brake: Nissin 1-piston caliper, 240mm disc
Wheels, Front/Rear: Spoked wheels; 21 in. / 18 in.
Tires, Front/Rear: Dunlop Geomax MX33; 80/100-21 / 120/90-18
Rake/Trail: 27.0°/4.6 in.
Wheelbase: 58.3 in.
Ground Clearance: 12.6 in.
Seat Height: 37.6 in.
Fuel Capacity: 2.2 gal.
Wet Weight: 254 lb.
Contact: yamaha-motor.com

Cycle World Tested Specifications

Seat Height: 37.6 in.
Wet Weight: 256 lb.
Rear-Wheel Horsepower: 53.0 hp @ 9,600 rpm
Rear-Wheel Torque: 32.9 lb.-ft. @ 7,100 rpm

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

Riders Share Will Pay You to Buy More Motorcycles

Riders Share Ride Pass review motorcycle rental subscription service

Riders Share is providing owners the opportunity to cash in on their motorcycles and the perfect excuse to buy another.

Riders Share, the largest motorcycle sharing marketplace, announced today that it would pay an extra $250 to owners who list an additional 2015 or later model motorcycle and perform three rentals with it before October 14, 2021.

According to Riders Share, the motorcycles and vehicles that perform the best on the platform are adventure bikes, especially BMWs, Ducati Monster and Scrambler models, Harley-Davidson Road and Electra Glides, Indian Chieftains, Challenger and Roadmasters. Can-Ams and Urals are also very popular. They suggest researching the platform in your local market for pointers on which late model motorcycles are currently underrepresented, and therefore the most likely to meet the three rentals deadline.

Riders Share also has a referral program, which allows users to provide $50 in free credits to friends to allow them to experience the site and book their first rental, thus streamlining the opportunity to get paid for owning a motorcycle.

Riders Share Will Pay You to Buy More Motorcycles

“Historically, purchasing a motorcycle hasn’t been viewed as a good investment, but we are aiming to change that with the Riders Share platform,” said Guillermo Cornejo, CEO of Riders Share. “We have helped many of our users turn their motorcycles into incredible financial investments, returning as much as 2,800% in 3 years by listing their motorcycles and utilizing the peer-to-peer platform. Riders Share users have been able to start businesses based on the volume rentals they are performing on the platform. It truly is the power of the peer-to-peer platform.”

I can report, from first-hand experience, that this is more than just marketing hype. I recently rented a 2021 BMW R 1250 GS through Riders Share and was surprised to find that the owner of the bike I rented, one of the early adopters on the site, had subsequently built a fleet of 28 motorcycles. He also explained that he managed to pay off his first two bikes in just two months and is considering giving up his IT business to focus on Riders Share.

Riders Share is the world’s largest peer-to-peer motorcycle marketplace platform. Their mission is to match underutilized motorcycles with vetted riders. They provide an insurance policy for owners and roadside assistance coverage for renters. With over 100,000 registered users, Riders Share offers the largest variety of motorcycles available to rent in the world. For more information visit: riders-share.com

The post Riders Share Will Pay You to Buy More Motorcycles first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

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