Tag Archives: General

Dirt bike sales soar in Australia through second quarter

News 8 Jul 2020

Dirt bike sales soar in Australia through second quarter

Yamaha the top-selling off-road brand among extraordinary 2020 results.

Image: Supplied.

Australia has experienced an unprecedented rise in dirt bike sales through the second quarter of 2020, increasing by over 40 percent in comparison to the first half of last year.

Understood to be as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic, reports from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) has revealed that the industry is currently experiencing an extraordinary upturn.

In the opening six months of the year there has been 20,885 dirt bike sales, which is well above the 14,666 sold between January to June one year ago. The top-selling off-road brand was Yamaha at 6170 sales, followed by Honda (5497), KTM (3338), Kawasaki (3099), Husqvarna (1526) and Suzuki (1255).

Each of those brands remarkably recorded dirt bike sales increases, Yamaha by 49.2 percent, Honda 31.4 percent, KTM 36.6 percent, Kawasaki 72.8 percent, Husqvarna 59.8 percent and Suzuki 8.5 percent. Brands such as Sherco and Gas Gas aren’t currently part of the FCAI reporting.

The highest-selling motocross bike to date is the Yamaha YZ250F at 403 sales, followed by the Yamaha YZ450F (345), Honda CRF450R (334), Kawasaki KX450 (298) and Honda CRF250R (256). Enduro is led by the Yamaha WR450F (745), ahead of the KTM 300 EXC (554), KTM 350 EXC-F (433), Honda CRF450L (423) and KTM 450 EXC-F (323).

“It is wonderful to see some strong sales from our member motorcycle brands,” FCAI CEO Tony Weber said. “A year-on-year increase of 24.5 percent (overall) is significant and signals improving conditions for both members and dealers.

“The ATV and SSV segment is up a remarkable 50.9 percent and now represents 27.5 percent of the total market. And off-road bikes are also on fire, with an increase of 42.4 percent and claiming 39.5 percent of the total market.

“People can’t go for overseas holidays and for quite some time they couldn’t even go for holidays within Australia. So, we believe that instead of spending up big on expensive family vacations, people are treating themselves in different ways and this could mean they are taking up new sports like trail-bike riding.”

Overall, a total of 52,838 vehicles inclusive of new motorcycles, All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) and Side-by-Side Vehicles (SSVs) were sold from January to June 2020, in comparison to 42,457 during the same period in 2019. This represents a 24.5 percent increase in total sales, a bright spot in an economic environment that has been predominantly negative over the past four months.

Honda reported 12,563 sales for a 23.8 percent market share, followed by Yamaha with 12,344 sales for 23.4 percent share, Kawasaki with 6545 sales for 12.4 percent share, KTM with 4391 sales for 8.3 percent share and, finally, Suzuki with 3594 sales for 6.8 percent market share.

Detailed results (Top 10)

Detailed results (Comparison report)

Source: MotoOnline.com.au

All-new KX250 headlines 2021 Kawasaki model range

News 8 Jul 2020

All-new KX250 headlines 2021 Kawasaki model range

Updates also made to KX450 in addition to off-road variants.

Image: Supplied.

Kawasaki has uncovered the 2021 KX250 and KX450 models, the former of which is all-new and includes an electric start for the first time in addition to a haul of performance-increasing upgrades.

The 2021 model KX250 builds on engine changes from the previous year to make it the most powerful KX250 to date. Its striking appearance features slim, ergonomic bodywork, plus it now has a factory-style 1-1/8” Renthal Fatbar Handlebar.

In addition to a high-revving engine, it now features new electric start, new coned disk-spring hydraulic clutch and a new slim aluminum perimeter frame that improves handling to enable quicker lap-times, making the KX250 even more potent on the race-track.

The powerful engine of the KX250 features upgrades to both the top- and bottom-end for increased power, improved brakes offer more control when harnessing the power of the stronger engine and an updated KX450-style frame and fine-tuned suspension settings to create the ultimate performance package.

Engine changes are inclusive of new processing for intake and exhaust ports, exhaust cam timing, stiffer valve springs, combustion chamber design and flatter piston crown, longer connecting rod, lighter crankshaft design and revised pressure balance inside the crankcase.

Complimenting the electric start, a lightweight, compact Li-ion battery helps keep weight down, as does an automatic centrifugal decompression system fitted to the exhaust cam, which lifts one exhaust valve to facilitate starting.

The KX250’s new slim aluminium perimeter frame is based off of its KX450 counterpart and with lightweight, nimble handling and slim ergonomics in mind. The new frame offers a better overall rigidity balance and, while many of the parts are common with the KX450’s frame, the cast parts like shock tower mount and engine hangers were designed specifically for the needs of the KX250.

Adding to the frame’s rigidity balance is the use of the engine as a stressed member. The steering head area, main frame rails with updated cross-sections, line for the swingarm brackets, and wider lower frame rails have all been revised and contribute to the overall rigidity balance.

The addition of a KX450 swingarm delivers the rigidity necessary to match the frame and helps to increase traction at the rear wheel. The center of gravity and key dimensions such as swingarm pivot, output sprocket and rear axle locations have all been carefully selected so that the rear tire drives the bike forward.

The lower triple clamp has been revised for optimised rigidity and reduced weight, while contributing to the front’s ability to absorb bumps. In the rear, linkage ratios have been revised, now using the same as those found on the KX450 motorcycle, contributing to both increased absorption and damping performance. Both front and rear suspension feature new fine-tuned settings that are designed to match the frame.

For 2021, a revised design on the top of the fuel tank allows an even flatter progression from the seat to the tank, which gives the rider greater freedom of movement and facilitates sitting farther forward. The single-piece radiator shrouds are now slimmer where they come in contact with the rider’s legs and positioned closer to the frame. Engine covers have been redesigned and are smooth in order to not impede rider movement.

Meanwhile, the Kawasaki KX450 returns as the flagship model in the line-up for 2021 and boasts several new updates to maintain its edge as a leader in its class. For 2021 the KX450 receives engine updates for increased performance and a new 1-1/8” Renthal Fatbar handlebar.

Those engine updates include a dry film lubricant coating on the piston skirt, while larger diameter clutch plates and revised friction material have also been utilized. A coned disk-spring hydraulic clutch offers improved clutch performance.

The championship-proven technology of KX race machines has now been purposely tuned for off-road competition, as Kawasaki announces all-new race ready off-road KX XC models with the all-new 2021 KX250XC and KX450XC models. These are in addition to the KLX450R, which remains as the brand’s registrable model.

These models share many winning traits with their motocross counterparts including the engine, frame, chassis and styling, paired with unique cross-country tuning and settings such as suspension settings, gearing, off-road 21/18-inch wheel combination, Dunlop Geomax AT81 tires, brake components, skid plate and kickstand. Softer suspension settings and shorter gearing ratio help to create the optimal handling off-road race package for the KX XC line-up.

Complete information on the entire 2021 KX motocross and off-road range is available now at www.kawasaki.com.au. Models are due to arrive in Australia during the third quarter of this year.

Source: MotoOnline.com.au

Striking new 2021 Husqvarna FC and TC range introduced

News 26 Jun 2020

Striking new 2021 Husqvarna FC and TC range introduced

Broad list of refinements confirmed for MY21 motocross models.

Image: Supplied.

Husqvarna Motorcycles has announced the launch of its 2021 motocross range, highlighted by a mixture of refinements that will power the brand into next season.

Featuring the latest technological advancements, all MY21 Husqvarna models ensure uncompromised power to weight, leading ergonomics and aesthetics.

For the new year, Husqvarna Motorcycles has focused on further improving suspension performance and handling by adding a new mid-valve damping system to the WP XACT forks with AER technology, for increased rider comfort on landings as well as reducing pressure peaks for consistent damping performance. They also have 10mm shorter fork cartridges and outer tubes.

Additionally, new low-friction linkage seals offer refined suspension response on the WP XACT shock. Engineered to keep ahead of the field, the Husqvarna Motorcycles four-stroke models feature compact and modern engines with internal shaft arrangements at the ideal centre of gravity to notably benefit handling and manoeuvrability. Modern electronics and launch control ensure perfect acceleration.

Accompanying the launch of the 2021 motocross range is the new Husqvarna Motorcycles app, that together with the Connectivity Unit that needs to be mounted on the machine will be available from this 25 July onwards as a technical accessory for MY21 four-stroke models and the current FC 450 Rockstar Edition.

Opening a whole new era of motorcycle performance tuning, the app enables riders to adjust their engine mapping and gives recommendations for the optimum suspension setting. Additionally, it allows for precise customisation and personalisation, while improving the overall rideability.

Among the list of several adjustment options the highlights are the two main engine modes, Prime and Advanced, which allow riders of all levels to fine-tune their engine’s performance according to their riding requirements and track conditions.

Delivering minimal weight, ease of handling and the highest levels of performance, the Husqvarna Motorcycles TC line-up features the latest two-stroke technology with class-leading power and unrivalled attention-to-detail. Advanced ergonomics and modern bodywork combine to ensure all TC machines offer superior on-track comfort and control in all riding conditions.

The latest motocross line-up features all-new Swedish inspired graphics, giving Husqvarna Motorcycles’ latest TC and FC models a fresh and vibrant, three-colour look. There is also a new seat cover texture that’s been applied for MY21.

Guaranteeing the champions of tomorrow enjoy all the benefits of Husqvarna Motorcycles’ full-sized motocross models, the TC 85, TC 65, TC 50 and EE 5 ensure the highest levels of on-track performance. Prioritising youth-specific ergonomics and user-friendly aesthetics each model inspires confidence, allowing youngsters to focus on their riding while having fun.

The Husqvarna Motorcycles 2021 motocross range will start to be available in Australia and New Zealand from October onwards at all authorised Husqvarna Motorcycles dealers. To find out more, visit www.husqvarna-motorcycles.com.

Source: MotoOnline.com.au

Enhanced 2021 KTM SX-F and SX motocross models unveiled

News 24 Jun 2020

Enhanced 2021 KTM SX-F and SX motocross models unveiled

Make adjustments with advanced myKTM app using Connectivity Unit kit.

Image: Supplied.

KTM has taken the covers off its 2021 motocross range, featuring enhancements that have flowed through from research and development of the Austrian brand’s factory racing teams that make for the most technically-advanced, ‘Ready To Race’ range to date.

The feedback collected by racing achievements globally helped KTM R&D update the KTM SX model range for 2021 with clear core objectives, to create the lightest, best-handling, most powerful, usable and well-equipped motocross bikes.

Improvements for 2021 across the full-size range focus on suspension and chassis modifications, tweaks to engine architecture to further enhance reliability, new Dunlop tyres and a reworked graphics aesthetic.

The WP XACT front forks and rear shocks have been overhauled with new components as well as being reconfigured with a slightly firmer standard setting to increase confidence and comfort across a wider spread of surfaces. Dunlop’s Geomax MX-33 is the rubber of choice for the KTM SX models thanks to its versatility and race proven performance.

As the flagship model in the four-stroke range, the KTM 450 SX-F benefits from modifications to the piston, crankshaft, engine casing, rocker arms and shift locker to further hike the bike’s excellent reliability, shave more weight and aid practicality in terms of general maintenance.

In addition, the 2021 KTM 450 SX-F together with the new KTM 350 SX-F and KTM 250 SX-F machines can connect with the advanced myKTM app using an extra Connectivity Unit kit, available in the KTM PowerParts catalog.

With the bar pad-integrated Connectivity Unit fitted and the myKTM app installed, riders can personalise their KTM SX-F according to their preferences and track conditions without technical assistance. Offering the finest technical touch, the myKTM app allows for a wide spectrum of adjustability on the fly, a privilege that was limited to elite KTM factory riders until recently.

As a towering example of power-to-weight ratio excellence in the KTM two-stroke range, the 2021 KTM 125 SX is boldened with a fresh piston and clutch internals, with the treatment extending to the 250cc-challenging KTM 150 SX.

KTM treats its Sportminicycle roster with the same ground-up priority for development as the full-size bikes. The KTM 85 SX, KTM 65 SX and KTM 50 SX and KTM 50 SX Mini therefore count on a new throttle assembly for better and smoother throttle action.

For the KTM 85 SX, braking potential is much higher thanks to larger discs and a completely new front and rear brake system made by Formula. All three junior motocrossers now have a tapered handlebar allowing fitment of ODI lock-on grips. For the KTM 50 SX and KTM 50 SX Mini, the new tapered handlebar allows fitment of thinner grips.

The 2021 KTM SX range will become available at KTM dealers worldwide from June 2020 onwards. For more information, visit www.ktm.com.

Source: MotoOnline.com.au

New-look 2021 Husqvarna FE and TE enduro bikes launched

News 19 Jun 2020

New-look 2021 Husqvarna FE and TE enduro bikes launched

Comprehensive off-road model line-up due for arrival in October.

Image: Supplied.

Husqvarna Motorcycles has launched the new 2021 Husqvarna TE and FE enduro range, a complete line-up of two-stroke and four-stroke models with minor updates for the new year.

The brand’s drive to constantly refine and improve all machines brings improvements and updates into the MY21 FE and TE range, a comprehensive line-up of enduro models that will allow riders of all abilities to hit the trails.

From the TE 150i, to the TE 250i, TE 300i, FE 250, FE 350, FE 450 and FE 501, the entire enduro model range features unparalleled attention to detail and a fresh and vibrant, three-colour restyling.

The latest Husqvarna Motorcycles enduro range delivers advanced performance and an ongoing commitment to ensuring all machines come with high-quality components for true riding experiences. Featuring adjustable engine mapping as standard as well as electric starter systems, all two-stroke and four-stroke engines benefit from the latest fuel injection technology.

Next year’s range features numerous enduro-specific technical highlights, including a WP XPLOR forks and WP XACT shock combined with the chromium-molybdenum steel frame, progressive bodywork and innovative two-piece carbon composite subframe to ensure consistent damping, precise handling and superior rider comfort.

From the TE 150i to the Erzbergrodeo-winning TE 300i, the two-stroke range features the latest fuel injection technology, electric starters as standard and chassis that offers precise flex characteristics.

Offering a generous supply of torquey, manageable power, the Husqvarna four-stroke range ensures both versatility and performance. From the nimble FE 250 and its ability to shine in tough and technical terrain to the larger displacement FE 450 and FE 501, each model is finished with high-quality components.

The MY21 Husqvarna Motorcycles enduro range will start to be available in Australia and New Zealand dealers from October onwards. More information is available at www.husqvarna-motorcycles.com/enduro-2021.

Source: MotoOnline.com.au

Refined 2021 KTM EXC enduro models uncovered

News 17 Jun 2020

Refined 2021 KTM EXC enduro models uncovered

Updated range due to arrive in dealerships locally from this October.

Image: Supplied.

A selection of refinements have been made to the 2021 KTM EXC enduro range unveiled today, set to arrive in dealerships from this October.

The standard models will include the 300 EXC TPI, 250 EXC TPI and 150 EXC TPI two-strokes, as well as the 500 EXC-F, 450 EXC-F, 350 EXC-F and 250 EXC-F.

KTM’s expertise and experience from the WESS Enduro World Championship and several other racing disciplines worldwide drip into the evolving shape of KTM EXC technology.

As the latest expression of KTM’s off-road vision, the 2021 KTM EXC portfolio is denoted through a fresh and truly Ready To Race livery. The major upgrades for 2021 take the form of changes to suspension components, as well as engine reinforcements and brand new graphics.

As with all KTM EXCs in the 2021 ensemble, the 300 EXC TPI benefits from an additional pre-load adjuster in the WP XPLOR front fork that allows for easy setting changes. Additionally, the ultra-lightweight 150 EXC TPI has been given a new piston, which brings increased performance in terms of consistency.

KTM refuses to knock down a gear in its mission to continue making the KTM EXC-F models the best four-stroke enduro machines in the market. The level of the 2021 KTMs not only ensures their presence near the top of race standings, but also makes them serious consideration for riders of any skill range.

While the KTM 350 EXC-F is the definitive statement of a bike that welds the power of a 450 with the handling prowess of a 250, the new 450 EXC-F and 500 EXC-F powerhouses take advantage of reworked shift lockers.

The 2021 KTM EXC range is further enhanced by the KTM EXC Six Days models and the KTM 300 EXC TPI Erzbergrodeo, a series of limited edition machines designed to conquer the toughest trails and most demanding races.

Bikes will be arriving in Australia and New Zealand dealers from October onwards. For more information on the range, visit www.ktm.com/enduro-2021.

Source: MotoOnline.com.au

Richardson completes solo 24-hour indoor cycle ride

News 14 Apr 2020

Richardson completes solo 24-hour indoor cycle ride

Extraordinary achievement for multiple Australian SX2 champion.

Image: Foremost Media.

Two-time Australian SX2 champion Jackson Richardson completed a 24-hour indoor cycling challenge on Zwift over the easter weekend, riding a Concept2 BikeErg.

Richardson, 25, committed to the extraordinary challenge alongside Rockstar Energy Drink global motocross manager James Hanson in what became a world record attempt.

Richardson ended up completing a mammoth 534 kilometres in 24 hours, recording an average heart rate of 123bpm and burning 9737 calories over the duration. His ride commenced at 5:00pm on Saturday and went all the way through to Sunday afternoon.

“It started a couple of weeks ago when Dean Wilson did his first 100-mile road bike ride and we don’t even usually get a chance to attempt these sorts of things because our season is pretty much constantly going,” Richardson told MotoOnline. “When you do have time off, you normally want to take time off.

“James did it indoors on the Concept2 BikeErg then and when he did, I said I’d definitely do that, for sure. So I did the 100-mile ride and we spoke about what we were going to do next, which was initially going to be 200 miles, but I was on YouTube and came across this 24-hour indoor ride that a guy did in Britain.

“I sent it to James and he pretty much said ‘damn, so when are we doing it?’. I said ‘well, let’s do it next weekend’ and he agreed, so from that moment we were going to do it. We’d had a few at that point – but I wouldn’t say intoxicated – and were like… why not [laughs]?! There was no way in hell that I was going to quit.

“Before you know it, we were lining up to do a 24-hour ride. I can’t even explain it – it’s so gnarly. My first eight hours were solid, but from hour 10 to hour 15 it was just pure torture. My knees were hurting so bad, like my body was telling me to stop right now.

“All of a sudden I came good from hour 15 to hour 22 or so, when I pretty much got to the 500km mark and I was pretty happy with that. I took my shoes off with around two hours to go and just started turning the pedals over, just hanging on for dear life at that point. The pain was honestly indescribable.”

Hanson, meanwhile, achieved a new Concept2 BikeErg distance world record of 605km in 24 hours. A total of six people completed the entire ride including Victorian-based teenager Chandler Burns, who is a privateer in the MX Nationals and Australian Supercross Championship.

Richardson is in line to contest the entire 2020 AUS Supercross series, as well as potentially selected rounds of the MX Nationals once competition is scheduled to resume later this year. Check @jatzricho on Instagram for a complete rundown of his ride via hourly updates.

Source: MotoOnline.com.au

National motorcycle sales led by Yamaha through first quarter

News 7 Apr 2020

National motorcycle sales led by Yamaha through first quarter

Brand new Tenere 700 tops road and adventure touring charts.

Image: Supplied.

Yamaha is the strongest-selling motorcycle brand of 2020 to date in Australia, figures from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) have confirmed.

A total of 17,977 motorcycles, ATVs and scooters have been sold so far, marking a minor 2.5 percent decline in comparison to 12 months ago.

The four main market categories were split, with ATV/SSV and off-road bikes showing an increase, while road bikes and scooters reported a decrease.

“The first three months of 2020 have seen many issues unfolding in the Australian market, with floods, drought, bushfires and, more recently, the coronavirus pandemic,” FCAI chief executive Tony Weber commented. “The market has been remarkably resilient given the circumstances.”

Taking over as market leader, Yamaha recorded a 21.1 percent share of the national market, followed by Honda with 20.3 percent and Kawasaki in third place at 11.3 percent.

Road bikes suffered a significant 7.8 percent decline over the quarter. Harley-Davidson enjoys leadership in the segment, with a 18.9 percent market share, followed by Yamaha at 17.7 percent and Honda’s 14.1 percent.

It was a particularly strong result for the all-new Yamaha Tenere 700, standing atop road bike sales overall and the adventure touring category with 347 of those models sold.

Detailed results (Top 10)

Detailed results (Comparison report)

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

Yamaha tops national motorcycle sales through first quarter

News 7 Apr 2020

Yamaha tops national motorcycle sales through first quarter

Highest-selling dirt bike the Yamaha WR450F to date in 2020.

Image: Supplied.

Yamaha is the strongest-selling motorcycle brand of 2020 to date in Australia, figures from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) have confirmed.

A total of 17,977 motorcycles, ATVs and scooters have been sold so far, marking a minor 2.5 percent decline in comparison to 12 months ago.

The four main market categories were split, with ATV/SSV and off-road bikes showing an increase, while road bikes and scooters reported a decrease.

“The first three months of 2020 have seen many issues unfolding in the Australian market, with floods, drought, bushfires and, more recently, the coronavirus pandemic,” FCAI chief executive Tony Weber commented. “The market has been remarkably resilient given the circumstances.”

Taking over as market leader, Yamaha recorded a 21.1 percent share of the national market, followed by Honda with 20.3 percent and Kawasaki in third place at 11.3 percent.

Off-road motorcycles held their own with a 1.3 percent sales rise, in which Yamaha again topped the segment with a 27.8 percent share, followed by Honda with 24.3 percent and KTM at 20.7 percent.

It was the Yamaha WR450F that topped dirt bike sales overall, also featuring as leading enduro model at 260 models sold. KTM’s 300 EXC was second, the KTM 450 EXC-F third, KTM 350 EXC-F fourth and Yamaha WR250F fifth.

In terms of motocross models, the Honda CRF450R was highest-selling at 161 models sold, followed by the Yamaha YZ250F, KTM 250 SX-F, Yamaha YZ450F and Honda CRF250R.

Detailed results (Top 10)

Detailed results (Comparison report)

Source: MotoOnline.com.au

Motorcycling Australia events and licence sales suspended

News 1 Apr 2020

Motorcycling Australia events and licence sales suspended

COVID-19 pandemic results in extended period of inactivity.

Image: Foremost Media.

Motorcycling Australia (MA) has moved to suspend all scheduled events and licence sales due to the global coronavirus crisis.

With events already postponed on a broad scale both locally and overseas, competition has now been halted altogether by the governing body.

“With the rapidly changing environment and increasing government restrictions around COVID-19, it is with regret the Motorcycling Australia federation confirm that as of April 1 no further events will take place and license sales are suspended until further notice,” the statement read.

“Once we better understand the period of inactivity, we will be discussing extensions of licenses already issued and advise you. All state controlling bodies and MA are putting in plans around office activities and services available during this period of inactivity and we will provide you frequent updates.

“The ongoing COVID-19 is having a devastating effect on our sport, jobs, and the economy across the world, none of us are immune and the challenges we will face over the rest of 2020 will be huge, but we hope not insurmountable. This situation is unprecedented, with change not only to the sport but to our everyday lives.

“We encourage you to keep up to date with developments in the sport, and government advice to ensure the safety of you and your families.

“We will continue to work during this downtime to ensure that motorcycle activities can recommence as soon as humanly possible and we can begin to rebuild our sport. There will be many sacrifices we will all have to make and this is a time when the sport and motorcycle community needs to come together and work to come out the other side stronger.”

Source: CycleOnline.com.au