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BMW launches classic R 18 cruiser

BMW Motorrad returns to the cruiser category with the classic R 18 cruiser styled after the 1936 R 5, including double white pinstriping.

BMW Classic R 18 cruiserBMW R 18 and R 5

We’ve seen several other variants of the bike in concepts, prototypes and spy photos, so we expect this is just the first in a new line with the 1802cc boxer engine.

BMW to unveil R 18Spy photos and concepts

BMW Australia says the classic R 18 cruiser will arrive the third quarter of this year with prices starting at $26,890 (plus on-road costs).

The R 18 First Edition, which features classic double pin striping paint and chrome will be is available in limited numbers for $30,190. BMW Classic R 18 cruiser

The initial batch of R 18 First Editions allocated to Australia arriving this year will be fitted with “reverse assist”, bringing the price to $31,690. 

At 345kg dry weight, it needs reverse assist!BMW Classic R 18 cruiser

We also reckon the riding position looks a little uncomfortable with the inability for forward controls because of the massive boxer heads.

It will come with a range of accessories including ape hanger bars, tractor saddle, racks, pipes and more.

BMW R 18 classic

Highlights of the new BMW R 18 – $26,890 

  • Largest two-cylinder BMW boxer engine at 1802cc (click here for more engine details)
  • 67kW of power at 4,750rpm and 158Nm of torque at 3,000rpm. More than 150Nm available at all times from 2000-4000rpm;
  • Exposed drive-shaft and elaborate double-loop steel tube frame based on classic models;
  • Rear swingarm with enclosed axle drive in rigid frame design;
  • Telescopic fork with sleeves and cantilever suspension strut that includes travel-dependent damping;
  • Harmonious ergonomics for relaxed riding and optimum control;
  • Disc brakes front and rear with wire-spoked wheels;
  • State-of-the-art LED lighting technology with classically interpreted design;BMW Classic R 18 cruiser
  • Adaptive turning light for enhanced road illumination and cornering illumination available as an ex-factory option;
  • Classically designed circular instrument cluster with integrated display and ‘Berlin-Built’ label;
  • Keyless Ride for convenient functionality and activation by remote control;
  • Three standard riding modes (Rain, Roll and Rock), ASC and MSR;
  • Reverse assist for convenient manoeuvring and Hill Start Control for easy hill starts available as ex-factory options – $1500;
  • R 18 First Edition package offers an exclusive look in signature double pin striping paint and chrome – $30,190;
  • Initial allocation of R 18 First Edition units for local market fitted with Reverse assist, bringing price to $31,690.

Classic R 18  Tech specsBMW Classic R 18 cruiser

Engine
Capacity 1802cc / cui
Bore x stroke 107.1x100mm
Output 67kW (91hp)
at engine speed 4750rpm
Torque 158Nm
at engine speed 3000rpm
Type Air/water-cooled 2-cylinder 4-stroke boxer engine
No. of cylinders 2
Compression/fuel 9.6:1 / premium unleaded (95-98 RON)
Valve/accelerator actuation OHV
Valves per cylinder 4
Ø intake/outlet 41.2/35mm
Ø throttle valves 48mm
Engine control BMS-O
Emission control Closed-loop 3-way catalytic converter, EU5 exhaust standard
Electrical system
Alternator 600W
Battery 12/26V/Ah maintenance-free
Headlight LED low beam with projection module LED high beam with projection module
Starter 1.5kW
Power transmission – gearbox
Clutch Hydraulically activated single-disc dry clutch
Gearbox Constant-mesh 6-speed gearbox
Primary ratio 1.16
Transmission ratios I 2,438
II 1,696
III 1,296
IV 1,065
V 903
VI 784
Rear wheel drive Universal shaft
Transmission ratio 3.091
Suspension
Frame construction type Double-loop steel tube frame
Front wheel control Telescopic fork, fork tube Ø 49 mm
Rear wheel control Cantilever
Total spring travel, front/rear 120/90mm
Wheel castor 150mm
Wheelbase 1731mm
Steering head angle 57.3°
Brakes front Twin disc brake Ø 300 mm
Brakes rear Single disc brake Ø 300 mm
ABS BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (part-integral)

BMW Classic R 18 cruiserApe hanger bars and matte black accessories

Wheels Wire-spoked wheels
front 3.5 x 19”
rear 5.0 x 16”
Tyres front 120/70 R 19 or B 19 (manufacturer-dependent)
Tyres rear 180/65 B 16
Dimensions and weights
Total length 2440mm
Total width with mirrors 964mm
Seat height 690mm
DIN unladen weight, road ready 345kg
Permitted total weight 560kg
Fuel tank capacity 16L
Performance figures
Fuel consumption (WMTC) 5.6l/100 km
CO2 emissions (WMTC): 129g/km
0‒100 km/h 4s 800ms
Top speed 180km/h

R 18 classic photo gallery

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

KTM 890 R sharpens Super Scalpel

KTM had to abandon its world media launch of the new 890 R, dubbed the Super Scalpel, in the Canary Islands off Africa because of the pandemic.

However, the bike has been virtually launched on the KTM YouTube official channel and will arrive in Australia in May from $17,195 (plus on-road costs).

Super Scalpel

Based on the 790 Duke but with the bigger engine and improved dynamics, this solo seater is a much sharper tool, hence the name Super Scalpel.

The parallel-twin size increases from 799cc to 890cc with a slightly wider bore and longer stroke, more compression (13.5:1) and more aggressive cams.2020 KTM 890 Duke R Super Scalpel

That results in any impressive power boost from 78kW to 89 kW with torque up 15% from 86Nm to 99Nm.

Internals have been made lighter with a new balance shaft for smoother performance.

It also features racier ergonomics, performance Brembo brakes, fully adjustable WP APEX suspension, WP steering damper, slipper clutch, improved electronic rider aids and an optional up/down quickshifter.2020 KTM 890 Duke R Super Scalpel

The Super Scalpel is also a precision instrument with new electronic rider aids that include a new 6D lean angle sensor.

It allows some drift and there is an anti-wheelie control.

The three power modes are sport, street and rain and there is an optional track mode with launch control, nine levels of traction control and wheelie control switched off.

Super Scalpel sits 15mm higher with a seat height of 834mm and more ground clearance for better lean angles.2020 KTM 890 Duke R Super Scalpel

They say rider egos are also sportier with the rider sitting higher and further forward. There are also no pillion pegs.

Super Scalpel is shod with track-day Michelin Power Cup 2 tyres.2020 KTM 890 Duke R Super Scalpel

KTM 890 R tech specs

  • Engine: 890cc, liquid-coole, 4-Stroke, DOHC, parallel twin
  • Bore x stroke: 90.7 x 68.8mm
  • Transmission: six-speed, slipper clutch, optional quickshifter
  • Fuel: DKK Dell’Orto, 46 mm Throttle Body
  • Frame: CroMoly Tubular Steel, Engine as Stressed Member, aluminium subframe
  • Suspension: WP APEX USD 43mm forks, WP APEX Monoshock
  • Travel: 140mm (front); 150mm (rear)2020 KTM 890 Duke R Super Scalpel
  • Brakes: 320mm dual discs; 240mm
  • Wheels: 3.50 x 17”, 5.50 x 17”
  • Tyres: 120/70ZR17”; 180/55ZR17”
  • Steering Angle: 24.3º
  • Wheelbase: 1482mm
  • Clearance: 206mm
  • Seat: 834mm
  • Tank: 14L
  • Dry weight: 166kg

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Coronavirus hits major motorcycle shows

The biennial Intermot and annual EICMA motorcycle shows in October and November appear to be in jeopardy with BMW Motorrad the first to declare they will not attend.

The shows in Cologne and Milan are the biggest in the world and are the showcase for manufacturers around the world to debut their new models.

Despite being more than seven months away, BMW Motorrad has issued a statement saying they won’t attend.

It follows their recent decision to halt manufacturing at its Spandau factory in Berlin and their G 310 production in India for two weeks. They are expected to return to production next week.

Berlin BMW Motorrad factoryBMW Motorrad factory in Spandau, Berlin

BMW’s decision not to attend the motorcycle shows several months from now is significant as BMW uses these major shows to launch all their next-year models.

Their withdrawal could be the first of many companies to do the same.

Here is the official statement:

Due to the hardly foreseeable development of the corona pandemic and its effects, BMW Motorrad will not be participating in the two leading motorcycle shows Intermot in Cologne in October and EICMA in Milan in November in 2020.

This decision was made in order to counteract current planning uncertainty at an early stage, also for all our partners involved in BMW Motorrad motorshow appearances, in the interests of the greatest possible security, predictability and transparency.

BMW Motorrad will present the world premieres and product highlights planned for these motorcycle shows on alternative platforms in autumn 2020. In doing so, the company will increasingly rely on its own formats and digital communication channels.

The move comes just a day before BMW Motorrad was expected to do a “virtual launch” for their much-vaunted R 18 cruiser and tourer tomorrow (3 April 2020).

However, they now tell us it has been postponed and to “stay tuned”.

We have published several photos of the various models configurations as shown below and will update you with the production model when it is released.

BMW to unveil R 18

Virtual shows

It follows recent motorcycle show closures in Japan, forcing companies such as Suzuki and Honda to stage “virtual” exhibits and launches.

Yet, the organisers of the world’s biggest motorcycle rally in the world at Sturgis are still confident it will go ahead as planned in August.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

More variants for Harley-Davidson Streetfighter

Harley-Davidson is expected to have several variants of its new Bronx range later this year including a naked streetfighter, a street tracker and a cafe racer.

So far, the company has only revealed the streetfighter version.

Harley-Davidson Revolution Max platform Bronx StreetfighterBronx Streetfighter

More variants

However, trademark drawings support a street tracker version and images from an internal presentation to investors also suggest a cafe racer.

Harley-Davidson tracker trademark drawing variantsHarley-Davidson tracker trademark drawing Harley-Davidson cafe racer variantsHarley-Davidson cafe racer Harley-Davidson tracker trademark drawingHarley-Davidson tracker

When the company unveiled its new water-cooled “midweight” platform in November, it included the company’s first adventure bike, the 145hp Pan America, and the 115hp Bronx Streetfighter.

Harley Revolution Max platform includes Pan America and Bronx StreetfighterHarley Revolution Max platform includes Pan America and Bronx Streetfighter

These are expected to be the first of many models to come with “Revolution Max” engines of 500cc, 975cc and 1250cc.

Many would consider the 975 and 1250 as big displacements, but Harley calls them midweight which they are in Harley terms as their current engines range from 500cc to over 1900cc.

When they introduce their bareknuckle 115hp/94Nm Bronx Streetfighter later this year, it may be joined by variants in various engines sizes.

Apart from a cafe racer and a street tracker, there could also be a sportsbike, according to this image from Japanese magazine Young Machine.

Harley sportsbike(Image: Young Machine)

Harley Sportsbike?

While we can see the cafe racer and tracker markets doing well, we wonder about Harley returning to making a sportsbike like its 1994 VR1000.

VR1000

It wouldn’t be too much of a stretch to give the Bronx a half fairing and extended belly pan as in the latest artist’s rendering.

VisorDown points out that a similar image is featured in the background of this photo from the Harley design house when the Bareknuckle was in its clay model stage.

Harley VR1000 teaseBronx clay model wth small sportsbike image indicated (Image: Visordown)

But the question is why would Harley return to sportsbikes after axing its Buell brand and selling MV Agusta in the wake of the GFC?

Sportsbike sales have been declining in sales in recent years, although super-hi-tech models have had a slight recovery.

Of course, all this speculation about new models rests on the ability of the company to survive pandemic and the change of boss and board.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Royal Enfield Himalayan new colours

Even the coronavirus hasn’t stopped the rugged Royal Enfield Himalayan adventure bike in its tracks with sales booming and two new colours for 2020.

RE closed all its production facilities around the world from March 23 for nine days.

The bike recorded a 116% increase in sales in February, but the nine-day production setback may only be temporary with the bright new colours in the line-up.

Australia importers Urban Moto Imports says the 2020 model will come in six colours, including the new Lake Blue and Rock Red.Royal Enfield Himalayan colours

They now come with ABS and electronic fuel injection and cost just $7490 ride away.

For the first time, you can also order online.

While you await the arrival of your new Indian adventure bike, chill out and watch this majestic video of the Himalayan in its namesake mountains.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Suzuki Katana Red in virtual launch

Virtual launches look like becoming the new norm during the pandemic with Suzuki launching its cherry red Katana online instead of at the Tokyo Motorcycle Show which was cancelled.

The Suzuki Katana was launched last year in silver and black colours which are historically accurate if a little staid and boring.

2019 Suzuki Katana depositsSuzuki Katana

This cherry red version with matching wheels and gold handlebars instead of black looks much more exciting.

Virtual launch

It certainly matches the exhilarating yet easy-to-ride performance of the reborn Katana.

We reckon the Katana is great bike, but a little overpriced at $18,990 ride away.

Suzuki Katana is a rider’s delight onlineMBW on the Suzuki Katana launch … a great bike that divided riders over its styling

There is no word yet from Suzuki Australia about when the cherry red version will arrive and whether it has a price premium.

If they keep the same price or maybe reduce the price the carry red katana may give it a sales boost.

Suzuki twin

Suzuki Katana Red in virtual launchPatent drawing

Meanwhile, Suzuki Motorcycles has filed a patent for a cleaner Euro5-compliant 250cc parallel-twin engine.

The new motor is expected to be fitted to their GSX-250R and V-Strom 250.

It features a single-overhead camshaft and new exhaust with two header pipes that join before the catalytic converter.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Honda virtually unveils CB-F concept

The pandemic has forced the cancellation of the 47th Tokyo Motorcycle Show, so motorcycle manufacturers have chosen to virtually launch their new products, including the Honda CB-F concept.

This “modern retro” is a tribute to the CB900F of the 1970s-80s.

1982 Honda CB900F1982 Honda CB900F

But don’t get your hopes too high that it will come to Australia.

The 20-13 CB1100 was also a great retro tribute bike, but Honda abandoned it, even after it was substantially updated with a sixth gear and ABS just a year later.

Honda CB110 Concept Type II retro cafe racerCB110 Concept Type II

Instead, we have the very uninspiring CB1000R sport. That bike is still shown on its website, but we think it’s been quietly discontinued as there are no 2019 models available for sale that we can find. Just as well!

Honda CB1000R naked bikesHonda CB1000R

Honda CB-F

The CB-F is powered by a water-cooled, inline 998cc four-cylinder engine with a six-speed box, the same drivetrain as the CB1000R, so maybe this is the replacement bike.

Although the CB-F is just a concept at the moment, Honda tends make production bikes very close to their concept moneys.

That’s good news, because we like the CB-F with its retro boxy shapes, single round headlight and silver/blue colouring.

Obviously, the missing indicators and mirrors will be added.Honda CB-F

And maybe that elegantly small and simple exhaust pipe will be modified for emissions regulations.

Let’s hope it doesn’t end up as hideous as the pipe on the CB1000R!

The chassis is made of lightweight high-tensile steel with an aluminium single-sided swingarm and upside-down forks, so it should be a lithe little handler.

Honda describes the CB-F as an “ambitious fusion of cutting edge technology with a design paying homage to the CB900F”.

Let’s hope Honda Australia does bring this one in!

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Ducati Streetfighter V4 may be delayed

Ducati has revealed its new Streetfighter V4 in a live streaming show as its scheduled delivery may be delayed by the pandemic.

The live streaming may have been planned to satisfy anxious customers, although it didn’t reveal much more than we already knew.

Delivery delayed

It was scheduled to be available from March 2020.

However, given the company has closed it factory until further notice over the pandemic, deliveries are expected to be delayed.

Ducati Streetfighter V4 ready to brawl

The Steetfighter will come in a “base model” at €19,990 (about $32,500) and a V4 S version at €22,990 (about $A37,500).

Aussie prices may vary and the delivery schedule is not yet confirmed.

Power packed

It is only slightly detuned from the Panigale V4’s 211 (157kW) to 208hp (155kW) and weighs in at 201kg.Ducati Streetfighter V4 ready to brawl

To control all that power and keep the front wheel on the ground, it has an aero package that creates 28kg of downforce at 270km/h.

The aggressive street brawl design is highlighted by two sets of wings on either side of the bike.Ducati Streetfighter V4 ready to brawl

Here is the Ducati press release and tech specs:

The foundation of the Steetfighter V4 is a Panigale V4 stripped of its fairings and equipped with high, wide handlebars. Weighing 178 kg, it is powered by a 1103 cc Desmosedici Stradale engine, its 208 hp kept under control by biplane aerofoils and a latest-generation electronics package: a combination of factors and modifications that Ducati calls the “Fight Formula”. The result is an over-the-top naked Ducati, modern and technological, with an assertively eye-catching design. A bike that does nothing to hide its segment-leading performance, but which also ensures practicality and full-on fun during everyday rides.

The minimalist full-LED headlight with its V-shaped DRL captures the spirit of the Streetfighter V4 perfectly. On the one hand, it recalls the front of the Panigale V4 and, on the other, evokes the crazy grin of the Joker (the comic strip character from which the Ducati Style Center drew inspiration for this new Bologna-built naked).Ducati Streetfighter V4 ready to brawl

On the Streetfighter V4, the Front Frame and Desmosedici Stradale engine take centre-stage. Only partially screened by superstructures that have been cut to a bare minimum, their sharp lines create a clean, essential whole.

Such powerful design demands a powerful engine, and the 1103 cc 208 hp Desmosedici Stradale fits the bill: for a naked, it packs an impressive punch, yet dedicated engine mapping lets the rider control the power with confidence. The engine – combined with a kerb weight of 178 kg (“S” version) – boosts the power/weight ratio to an impressive 1.17. Performance can be further improved by mounting the full-racing Ducati Performance exhaust by Akrapovič, which raises power to 220 hp and reduces weight by 6 kg.Ducati Streetfighter V4 ready to brawl

The feisty performance of this bike is stabilised by sophisticated electronics lifted directly from the Panigale V4 and the ‘biplane’ aerofoils developed by Ducati Corse aerodynamicists. Brought forward to maximise their effect, the aerofoils generate 28 kg of downforce at 270 kph, attenuating front wheel ‘floating’ at high speed and the tendency to wheel-up. They also boost stability during braking at the turn-in point and through the corner. On the road, this dynamic behaviour instils confidence. On the track, instead, it boosts performance by limiting electronic control intervention and allowing delayed braking.Ducati Streetfighter V4 ready to brawl

The latest-generation electronics package on the Streetfighter V4 is based on a 6-axis inertial measurement platform which instantly detects the bike’s roll, yaw and pitch angles. The electronics oversee every part of the ride: some controls manage start, acceleration and braking, others handle traction, while some lend a helping hand on corners and out-of-the-corner stretches. Safety, performance, and bags of personality: the new Ducati Streetfighter V4 has arrived!

Ducati Streetfighter V4 tech specs

Engine Desmosedici Stradale 90° V4, rearward-rotating crankshaft, 4 Desmodromically actuated valves per cylinder, liquid cooled
Displacement 1,103 cc
Bore X stroke 81 x 53.5 mm
Compression ratio 14.0:1
Power 153 kW (208 hp) @ 12,750 rpm
Torque 123 Nm (90.4 lb-ft) @ 11,500 rpm
Fuel injection Electronic fuel injection system. Twin injectors per cylinder. Full ride-by-wire elliptical throttle bodies.
Exhaust 4-2-1-2 system, with 2 catalytic converters and 2 lambda probes
Transmission
Gearbox 6 speed with Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) up/down EVO 2
Primary drive Straight cut gears; Ratio 1.80:1
Ratio 1=38/14 2=36/17 3=33/19 4=32/21 5=30/22 6=30/24
Final drive Chain; Front sprocket 15; Rear sprocket 42
Clutch Hydraulically controlled slipper and self-servo wet multiplate clutch
Chassis
Frame Aluminium alloy “Front Frame”
Front suspension Fully adjustable Showa BPF fork. 43 mm chromed inner tubes
Front wheel 5-spokes light alloy 3.50″ x 17″
Front tyre Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II 120/70 ZR17
Rear Suspension Fully adjustable Sachs unit. Aluminum single-sided swingarm
Rear Wheel 5-spokes light alloy 6.00” x 17”
Rear tyre Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II 200/60 ZR17
Wheel travel (front/rear) 120 mm (4.7 in) – 130 mm (5.1 in)
Front brake 2 x 330 mm semi-floating discs, radially mounted Brembo Monobloc Stylema® (M4.30) 4-piston callipers with Cornering ABS EVO
Rear brake 245 mm disc, 2-piston calliper with Cornering ABS EVO
Instrumentation Last generation digital unit with 5″ TFT colour display
Dimensions and weights
Dry weight 180 kg (397 lb)
Kerb weight* 201 kg (443 lb)
Seat height 845 mm (33.3 in)
Wheelbase 1.488 mm (58.6 in)
Rake 24,5°
Front wheel trail 100 mm (4 in)
Fuel tank capacity 16 l – 4.23 gallon (US)
Number of seats Dual seats
Equipment
Safety equipment Riding Modes, Power Modes, Cornering ABS EVO, Ducati Traction Control (DTC) EVO 2, Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) EVO, Ducati Slide Control (DSC), Engine Brake Control (EBC) EVO, Auto tyre calibration
Standard equipment Ducati Power Launch (DPL), Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) up/down EVO 2, Full LED lighting with Daytime Running Light (DRL), Sachs steering damper, Quick adjustment buttons, Auto-off indicators, Passenger seat and footpegs. Ducati Multimedia System (DMS).
Additional equipment
Ready for Ducati Data Analyser+ (DDA+) with GPS module, Ducati LinkApp, anti-theft, heating grips, Ducati Lap Timer GPS (DLT GPS)
Warranty
Warranty (months) 24 months unlimited mileage
Maintenance (km/months) 12,000 km (7,500 mi) / 12 months
Valve clearance adjustment (km) 24,000 km (15,000 mi)
Consumption and Emissions (only for countries where Euro 4 standard applies)
Standard Euro 4
*Kerb weights indicate total bike weight with all operating consumable liquids and a fuel tank filled to 90% of capacity (as per EU Regulation 44/2014 Annex XI).

Ducati Streetfighter V4 ready to brawl

Ducati Streetfighter V4 S tech specs

Engine Desmosedici Stradale 90° V4, rearward-rotating crankshaft, 4 Desmodromically actuated valves per cylinder, liquid cooled
Displacement 1,103 cc
Bore X stroke 81 x 53.5 mm
Compression ratio 14.0:1
Power 153 kW (208 hp) @ 12,750 rpm
Torque 123 Nm (90.4 lb-ft) @ 11,500 rpm
Fuel injection Electronic fuel injection system. Twin injectors per cylinder. Full ride-by-wire elliptical throttle bodies.
Exhaust 4-2-1-2 system, with 2 catalytic converters and 2 lambda probes
Transmission
Gearbox 6 speed with Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) up/down EVO 2
Primary drive Straight cut gears; Ratio 1.80:1
Ratio 1=38/14 2=36/17 3=33/19 4=32/21 5=30/22 6=30/24
Final drive Chain; Front sprocket 15; Rear sprocket 42
Clutch Hydraulically controlled slipper and self-servo wet multiplate clutch
Chassis
Frame Aluminium alloy “Front Frame”
Front suspension Öhlins NIX30 43 mm fully adjustable fork with TiN treatment. Electronic compression and rebound damping adjustment with Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 event-based mode
Front wheel 3-spokes forged aluminum alloy 3.50″ x 17″
Front tyre Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II 120/70 ZR17
Rear Suspension Fully adjustable Ohlins TTX36 unit. Electronic compression and rebound damping adjustment with Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 event-based mode. Aluminium single-sided swingarm
Rear Wheel 3-spokes forged aluminum alloy 6.00″ x 17″
Rear tyre Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II 200/60 ZR17
Wheel travel (front/rear) 120 mm (4.7 in) – 130 mm (5.1 in)
Front brake 2 x 330 mm semi-floating discs, radially mounted Brembo Monobloc Stylema® (M4.30) 4-piston callipers with Cornering ABS EVO
Rear brake 245 mm disc, 2-piston calliper with Cornering ABS EVO
Instrumentation Last generation digital unit with 5″ TFT colour display
Dimensions and weights
Dry weight 178 kg (392 lb)
Kerb weight* 199 kg (439 lb)
Seat height 845 mm (33.3 in)
Wheelbase 1.488 mm (58.6 in)
Rake 24,5°
Front wheel trail 100 mm (4 in)
Fuel tank capacity 16 l – 4.23 gallon (US)
Number of seats Dual seats
Equipment
Safety equipment Riding Modes, Power Modes, Cornering ABS EVO, Ducati Traction Control (DTC) EVO 2, Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) EVO, Ducati Slide Control (DSC), Engine Brake Control (EBC) EVO, Auto tyre calibration
Standard equipment Ducati Power Launch (DPL), Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) up/down EVO 2, Full LED lighting with Daytime Running Light (DRL), Ducati Electronic Suspension (DES) EVO with Ohlins suspension and steering damper, Quick adjustment buttons, Auto-off indicators, Passenger seat and footpegs, Ducati Multimedia System (DMS). Marchesini aluminium forged wheels
Additional equipment
Ready for Ducati Data Analyser+ (DDA+) with GPS module, Ducati LinkApp, anti-theft, heating grips, Ducati Lap Timer GPS (DLT GPS)
Warranty
Warranty (months) 24 months unlimited mileage
Maintenance (km/months) 12,000 km (7,500 mi) / 12 months
Valve clearance adjustment (km) 24,000 km (15,000 mi)
Consumption and Emissions (only for countries where Euro 4 standard applies)
Standard Euro 4
*Kerb weights indicate total bike weight with all operating consumable liquids and a fuel tank filled to 90% of capacity (as per EU Regulation 44/2014 Annex XI).

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Electric Harley covers 1723km in one day

A Swiss rider has just ridden a Harley-Davidson LiveWire 1723km across four nations in one day using Level 3 DC fast chargers.

Sounds good, but we did some calculations and reckon he would have spent six hours recharging!

Rider Michel von Tell, aged 39, is a journalist and comedian described as the Euro version of US comedian Bill Burr … we don’t know him either. Anyway, he’s apparently a bit of a celebrity and his YouTube channel has millions of followers. 

His feat shattered the previous record of 1134.3km in one day set in 2018 by German Remo Klawitter on a Zero electric motorcycle fitted with an optional Charge Tank with Level 2 charging.

Calculations for one day record

Harley-Davidson LiveWire electric motorcycle(All images are of MBW riding the LiveWire at the world launch in 2019)

Harley claims the bike has city range of up to 235km and 152km of highway range. We tested that on the launch last year and it appears about right.

They also say that the bike takes 30 minutes to charge to 80% capacity and 40 minutes to fully charge on a Level 3 DC fast charger.

Michel says he usually only stopped for 25 minutes at a time, but let’s be generous and say that was enough for an 80% charge.

So we calculate that to cover 1723km in 24 hours (actually 23 hours and 48 minutes), Michel needed to keep an average speed of about 70km/h.

Recharging

Harley-Davidson LiveWire electric motorcycle electric highwaysLiveWire on a DC fast charger

We imagine he mainly did highway riding to attain that average speed.

That means recharging every 121km as that’s 80% of 152km.

So he would have had to recharge about 14 times.

If he recharged for 25 minutes at a time, he spent almost six hours recharging.

So he was only travelling for 18 hours, which means his average speed would have had to be more like 95km/h.Harley-Davidson LiveWire electric motorcycle

At that rate, he would cover 121km in about 90 minutes.

So he rode for 90 minutes, then sat around for 25 minutes to recharge.

And that’s using Level 3 DC fast chargers which are not in abundant supply outside Europe and California!

It’s really not a great advertisement for electric motorcycles.

Michel didn’t pay the hefty fee to Guinness World Records to validate his claimed record, but does have signed witness statements.Harley-Davidson LiveWire electric motorcycle

The LiveWire was launched in northern hemisphere in September at $US30,000 and is expected to be launched in Australia late this year.

At current low exchange rates that could mean it might cost more than $A50,000.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Ducati selling more premium bikes

Ducati has posted its 20129 financial results which shows a record in turnover for per bikes sold which indicates they are selling more premium bikes.

The financial results come amid the factory being closed by the pandemic for cleaning and restructuring to allow workers to have more distance between them.

Ducati expects to reopen the factory on Wednesday (25 March 2020).

Several motorcycle factories have also closed across Europe and Asia for cleaning as well as Harley-Davidson in the USA.

The latest to join the factory closures is Royal Enfield in India and the UK until March 31.

All these production halts may not have an immediate effect on motorcycle supplies, but could result in longer term delays, especially on spare parts.

Ducati resultsDUCATI MOTOR HOLDING premium

Ducati has announced it “delivered” 53,183 motorcycles last year. That doesn’t necessarily mean that’s how many were sold.

It’s the fifth consecutive year the Bologna factory has receded deliveries above 50,000.

Ducati report turnover of €716 million ($A1332m) and €52m ($A97m) in operating profit, equal to 7.2% of operating margin.

While the Scrambler has become the biggest-selling model since its release in 2015, Panigale and Multistrada are generating the most income.

The company says turnover per bike of about €13,500 ($A235,120) per motorcycle represents the highest value in the history of the company.

They say this indicates a move toward the premium part of the market.

Panigale was the best-selling super sports bike in the world for the second consecutive year, with a market share of 25%.

The Multistrada family recorded the highest value of motorcycles sold since entering the market in 2003. last year the Multistrada family added the 950 S and 1260 Enduro.

Premium Streetfighter V4

Ducati EICMA Streetfighter V4 voteDucati Streetfighter V4 wins most beautiful bike at EICMA

The premium Streetfighter V4 should also help lift turnover-per-motorcycle when it is released this year.

It was unveiled in November 2019 at the EICMA motorcycle show in Milan where it won the most beautiful bike award.

Price and delivery have not yet been revealed.

However, we expect they may be announced when Ducati telecasts a presentation on Wednesday (25 March 2020) featuring techs involved in developing the bike.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com