Tag Archives: General

Annual WR250R Rally set for third edition in Cessnock

Two-day Yamaha rally scheduled for this month.

Image: Supplied.

Yamaha Motor Australia has confirmed the date of the third annual WR250R Rally, scheduled to take place on 22-24 March at Cessnock in New South Wales.

The first event attracted 38 owners, while the second event saw 64 riders of the versatile Yamaha trail bike congregate in Cessnock for a two-day 500km adventure ride. Now, Greg Yager and the RideADV team are aiming to entice the biggest ever collection of WR250Rs to converge in one spot.

This year’s event will once again be hosted by dirt bike legend Chris Watson of Chris Watson’s Motorcycles, covering prime trails around the Hunter region including the Watagan, Olney and Yengo State Forests.

Prizes are awarded for a number of categories including best bike and furthest travelled. Now in its third year, the event attracts a wide range of riders. For more information, visit www.yamaha-motor.com.au.

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

KTM confirms Australian pricing for 790 Adventure models

Highly-anticipated Adventure models due for June 2019 arrival.

Image: Supplied.

KTM Australia has confirmed domestic pricing of the highly-anticipated 790 Adventure R and 790 Adventure models, along with the 2019 range of Adventure motorcycles.

Following the official unveil at Milan’s EICMA show last November, both bikes are scheduled to arrive in Australia during June 2019. The KTM 790 Adventure R represents exceptional value at $22,695 ride away, while the KTM 790 Adventure will retail at $21,195 ride away.

Developed using KTM’s illustrious racing DNA, the KTM 790 Adventure R has been designed for the hardcore adventurer, equipped to take-on extreme off-road terrain.

A tubular CroMo steel frame and lightweight steel trellis sub-frame are engineered handle harsh conditions, paired with high-performance WP suspension – a WP XPLOR 48mm fork and WP XPLOR shock – with 240mm of travel front and rear.

A steering damper aids stability, plus the heavy-duty spoked 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels with Metzeler Karoo 3 tyres are specifically developed for off-road performance. It boasts twin 320mm diameter brake discs with four-piston, radially-mounted calipers up front, as well as a 260mm diameter brake disc actuated by a double piston floating caliper in the rear.

A bold and aggressive KTM design has been developed in parallel with the Dakar Rally-dominating factory racing rally contender, weighing in at 189 kilograms dry.

Utilising the compact 799cc twin-cylinder, four-stroke LC8c engine specifically adapted to meet the needs of serious off-road adventure riding, it boasts 70 kW, a six-speed sequential gearbox and KTM’s ride-by-wire system that electronically translates throttle commands of the rider into optimum throttle valve positions.

A special effort was made to have the air-filter easily accessible for cleaning and servicing while on a ride, plus thanks to the KTM 790 Adventure R’s design and advanced cooling technology, riding for hours in hot conditions is possible.

Rider aids are there to assist you in variable situations, featuring KTM’s MTC (Motorcycle Traction Control), cornering ABS, off-road ABS (deactivating ABS at the rear while front wheel ABS intervention is reduced and data from the lean angle sensor is not considered), an off-road ride mode and the more advanced Rally mode which enable the rider to adapt the character of the bike more freely.

Optional add-ons include Quickshifter+ and Cruise Control, while smartphones can be connected via the KTM MY RIDE system for a variety of functional purposes. In addition, take full advantage of the 20-litre fuel tank as the main volume is placed as low as possible, improving handling via a low centre of gravity and also enhancing ergonomic comfort.

Riders will benefit from features such as ergonomic adjustability, a single-piece off-road style seat, all-terrain foot-pegs, a low-profile windshield specific to the R model that offers an unobstructed view directly in front of the bike, a customisable five-inch TFT display, as well as LED lights including the main headlight, taillight and indicators.

Alongside, if you’re seeking a high-performance motorcycle that’s lightweight and compact, specialising in adventure touring with the ability to explore further off-road when the tarmac ends, then look no further than the KTM 790 Adventure. Whether it’s in the desert, on remote mountain trails or a transcontinental crossing, no other twin-cylinder travel enduro bike can match it, also weighing 189 kilograms dry.

Including much of the technology that makes up the R model, the sporty 790 Adventure is differentiated by by its Avon Trailrider tyres, WP’s APEX 43mm open cartridge upside-down fork and WP APEX shock each with 200mm of travel, a height-adjustable two-part seat, high windshield for maximum wind protection on long rides, and in terms of electronics, the Rally mode becomes an additional optional pack.

KTM Australia can now also confirm ride away pricing that will make up the 2019 KTM Adventure Range: The all new MY19 690 Enduro R is $17,595 ride away, MY19 1090 Adventure R at $24,295 ride away, MY19 1290 Super Adventure Super Adventure S at $28,395 ride away, and the MY19 1290 Super Adventure R comes in at $29,195 ride away. For more information, visit www.ktm.com/au.

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

Electric-powered motorcycles in Ducati’s sights

Head of innovation’s Zampieri confirms developments currently in place.

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Production electric-powered motorcycles are in the sights of premium Italian manufacturer Ducati, according to the company’s head of innovation, Pierluigi Zampieri.

Development of electric motorcycles has increased across a number of manufacturers, with Ducati certain to enter the market at some stage in the future, as timing and demand are ultimately the determining factor.

“We’re still developing our production bikes with the aim of being the best on the track,” Zampieri explained to MCN. “But with electric the difficulty is a compromise between weight and performance or range. “Today the whole package is not as good as we would like it to be, because the energy density that you can store is not high enough. The main challenge, technically, is reaching our performance and weight targets.”

“Being a company that is usually state of the art, we could arrive [with a product] that’s state of the art or even better than all of our competitors. The problem is – is now the right moment? It’s a small market and we’re still trying to understand when it’ll be ready for such innovation.”

“The V4 choice was similar – we had a lot of discussions about whether our customers would appreciate it or not. Now we are having similar discussions. You try to push the customer but need to know if they like it or not. Would our customers appreciate an electric bike? Is it the right moment for them?”

With a fanatical and loyal following, Ducati faces the challenge of maintaining the renowned characteristics of its bikes, such as the unique sound and ferocious yet rewarding power, all of which are almost impossible to replicate in an electric motorcycle. However, Zampieri is confident of delivering an electric bike that’s true to Ducati’s character.

“It is a challenge, but I’m confident we can make an electric bike that’s pure Ducati with pure Ducati character,” he continued. “And if we look outside, Harley-Davidson for example, they’re starting from a situation that’s probably worse. If they’re able to shape a product and give it character, I’m confident we can do the same or better.”

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

Bell officially launches Eliminator helmet on the Gold Coast

Helmet launch attended by over 200 riders and motorcycle enthusiasts.

Image: Supplied.

Bell Powersports Australia has released its all-new Eliminator helmet with an official launch at the Gold Coast Creative House, where over 200 diverse riders and motorcycle enthusiasts attended.

The inside of the warehouse played host to an open bar provided by Young Henrys and a variance of motorcycle models and makes, as the Eliminator itself tries to cover a wide market rather than cater to a particular rider style. Outside saw the Show and Shine, food truck and plenty of motorcycle parking for all attendees.

Recently-crowned two-time Dakar Rally champion and Bell athlete Toby Price headlined a list of professional riders and personalities, which included Dan Reardon, Harry Bink, Emma McFerran, Matt McFerran, April Vaughn and Matt Mingay.

The focus was to draw in the broader motorcycle community by creating an event that spoke to several tiers of the public, stockists and influencers alike, engaging them into the Bell ethos and pushing forward the thinking that not only is Bell consistently at the forefront of helmet evolution and safety, but also still true to it’s roots of a genuine passion for motorcycles.

The Eliminator is the new helmet from Bell Powersports that encompasses a bygone era of racing and on-trend design aesthetics. Available in either composite or carbon fibre shells, the lid boasts an unique ventilation design that adds style and functional advantages over its competition.

The ProVision shield is ECE certified, vastly outperforming the standard’s mist-retardant test, and is designed for all ranges of uses from everyday commuting to extreme competition. For more information, visit www.bellhelmets.com.

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

Honda Australia celebrates 50th anniversary with gold CRF450L

Celebratory golden collection to be showcased around the country.

Image: Supplied.

Honda Australia and its motorcycle division are celebrating 50 years since the Japanese manufacturer established itself locally in the country with a series of gold motorcycles, cars and power equipment, including the CRF450L and CRF50F.

Although Honda products had been imported and distributed around Australia by a variety of private companies since the 1950s, the brand’s official local presence began when Honda Motor Company in Japan sent Hidehiko Shiomi to Melbourne to set-up a unified, national representation for Honda in Australia.

“Honda Australia was a Honda subsidiary set up primarily to sell cars, but it has since grown with the global Honda brand to deliver a wide range of products and services that help make people’s lives more enjoyable,” said Honda Australia managing director and CEO Hiroyuki Shimizu.

“We thought about how we could celebrate our birthday and our unique diversity in a bold and fun way. I mean, who has ever seen a golden mower or generator before?

“To Honda, performance means more than speed – each product is designed to perform at a level that exceeds the expectations of the customer. We’re looking forward to showcasing these amazing golden products around the country throughout 2019, so stay tuned for more information on that front.”

The celebratory golden collection of products will be used throughout the year to inspire, thank and connect with Honda Australia customers.


Source: MotoOnline.com.au

Honda Australia celebrates 50th anniversary with gold CBR1000RR

Celebratory golden collection to be showcased around the country.

Image: Supplied.

Honda Australia and its motorcycle division are celebrating 50 years since the Japanese manufacturer established itself locally in the country with a series of gold motorcycles, cars and power equipment, including the CBR1000RR Fireblade.

Although Honda products had been imported and distributed around Australia by a variety of private companies since the 1950s, the brand’s official local presence began when Honda Motor Company in Japan sent Hidehiko Shiomi to Melbourne to set-up a unified, national representation for Honda in Australia.

“Honda Australia was a Honda subsidiary set up primarily to sell cars, but it has since grown with the global Honda brand to deliver a wide range of products and services that help make people’s lives more enjoyable,” said Honda Australia managing director and CEO Hiroyuki Shimizu.

“We thought about how we could celebrate our birthday and our unique diversity in a bold and fun way. I mean, who has ever seen a golden mower or generator before?

“To Honda, performance means more than speed – each product is designed to perform at a level that exceeds the expectations of the customer. We’re looking forward to showcasing these amazing golden products around the country throughout 2019, so stay tuned for more information on that front.”

The celebratory golden collection of products will be used throughout the year to inspire, thank and connect with Honda Australia customers.

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

Limited production for Triumph Thruxton TFC model

Limited edition motorcycle boasts significant enhancements.

triumph thruxton tfc

Image: Supplied.

Only 750 units will go into production of Triumph’s Thruxton TFC model, which was unveiled yesterday at the Triumph Factory Custom (TFC) global launch.

With even more style, power and performance, the incredible new Thruxton TFC raises the bar to become the definitive sports classic and the new pinnacle in the legendary Thruxton line-up. Rare and truly special, this first production TFC model celebrates the best of British engineering, detailing and finish in a never-to-be-repeated version.

With only 750 ever being sold worldwide, the Thruxton TFC will be Triumph’s most exclusive and desirable modern classic. Featuring premium TFC badging and instrument faces with gold detailing, and a beautiful individually-numbered plaque on the top yoke, each one will be completely unique and never to be repeated.

Every Thruxton TFC owner will also receive a special tailor-made TFC handover pack unique to their bike, featuring a numbered letter signed by Triumph’s CEO Nick Bloor, a personalised custom build book, and a beautiful Thruxton TFC bike cover. Visually striking, the new Thruxton TFC features unique beautifully engineered lightweight carbon fibre bodywork, including a stunning one-piece carbon cockpit fairing, front mudguard, seat cowl, heel guards and silencer end caps.

Additional exquisite detailing includes billet machined aluminium top yoke with TFC branding, premium brushed nickel mirror centres, tinted screen, beautiful real leather seat with stitched detailing, and billet machined aluminium oil filler cap.
All of this comes on top of a whole host of beautiful blacked out features, including premium black anodised multi-spoked wheels, black Ohlins RSU springs with black decals, black engine covers and a black tail tidy.

To perfectly complement the black theme and real carbon fibre, the Thruxton TFC is available in one signature paint scheme – a distinctive Carbon Black, with brushed tank knee pad detailing, and hand painted gold lining. And that premium gold detailing is applied across the whole motorcycle, from the gold lining on the fairing, to the gold detailing in the badging and instrument faces, unique key with gold detailing, and even a stylish custom gold chain.

The Thruxton TFC also retains all of the distinctive core Thruxton features, such as the brushed flip-top Monza fuel cap, twin throttle bodies with brushed intake finisher, Daytona R foot pegs and clear anodised aluminium swing arm. The limited edition model achieves an incredible 10PS more power than the standard Thruxton R.

This is delivered by significant engine upgrades including a whole host of lighter weight engine components, high compression pistons, and revised ports and cam profile. Along with the higher power, the Thruxton TFC also delivers an incredible high torque punch low down and across the entire rev range, peaking at 115Nm.

There is also a premium one-of-a-kind exhaust system just for the Thruxton TFC, with Vance & Hines titanium silencers and carbon fibre end caps, with a unique laser etched co-branded logo. Significant weight savings across the entire motorcycle make the Thruxton TFC five kilograms lighter than the Thruxton R for an even more dynamic and agile ride – delivered by engine component refinements, carbon fibre bodywork, aluminium engine cradle rails, rear mudguard removal, and a lighter weight battery.

In addition to the weight saving, the Thruxton TFC also has a category leading higher level of specification and equipment, with fully adjustable Ohlins upside down NIX30 front forks and fully adjustable Ohlins piggy back reservoir rear shocks with billet machined aluminium adjusters.

There are also high specification Brembo four-piston M4.34 radial monobloc callipers and twin floating Brembo front discs, delivering excellent stopping power, and unique race specification Metzeler Racetec RR super sticky tyres. The premium specification continues with a Brembo radial master cylinder and MCS span and ratio adjustable brake lever plus matching clutch lever.

Increasing the level of rider-focused technology are three upgraded riding modes unique to the Thruxton TFC (Rain, Road and Sport), which now adjust throttle map, ABS and traction control settings to better suit the riding conditions or rider preference. This is enabled via the latest generation ride by wire, which delivers enhanced rideability, safety and control.

For enhanced visibility, lower energy consumption and greater durability, the Thruxton TFC features all-LED lighting, including seven-inch headlight with signature profile daytime running light (market specific availability), compact LED indicators, tail light and rear light.

ABS and traction control are also fitted for maximum safety and control, both implemented with minimal visual impact – compact, responsive and unobtrusive. Optimised to reduce lever effort for the rider, the torque-assist clutch makes the bike even more comfortable over long journeys and in stop-start riding, while the USB charging socket improves convenience.

An engine immobiliser is also fitted as standard on the Thruxton TFC, with a transponder incorporated into the new high-value gold badged key. Pricing and availability in Australia is still be determined. For more information, visit www.triumphmotorcycles.com.au.

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

All-new Triumph Rocket showcased in TFC unveiling

Return of large-capacity motorcycle limited to 750 units.

Image: Supplied.

Triumph has showcased its all-new Rocket as part of its Triumph Factory Custom (TFC) unveiling today, which also saw the covers pulled off a limited edition Thruxton.

Triumph’s legendary Rocket was renowned as a pure original, with more muscle, presence and power than all others. And now a rare and premium TFC Rocket is planned to go into production.

Featuring an all-new Triple engine, the world’s biggest production powerplant will spectacularly re-define its own class with world-beating torque and performance, cutting edge technology, an all-new chassis and the highest level of premium specification equipment.

With a planned total worldwide production run of only 750, this Rocket will be an ultra-limited edition part of Triumph Motorcycles’ TFC concept, designed to create the most desirable Triumphs ever made.

The world’s biggest production engine at 2500cc is central to the Rocket TFC’s class-defining performance, yet this exceptional motorbike’s new chassis and premium brake and suspension set-up will deliver the dynamic precision handling of a world-beating roadster.

The motorcycle is set to boast cutting edge technology that is designed to combine with rider-focused capability, breathtakingly beautiful style, and an incredible muscular road presence.

Full details and specifications of the Rocket TFC will be released on 1 May, including price and timetable of availability. For more information, visit www.triumphmotorcycles.com.au.

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

Welcome dual Dakar winner Price on return to Australia

Fans encouraged to meet Red Bull KTM legend at Brisbane Airport.

Image: Supplied.

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Toby Price is scheduled to arrive home this Sunday, fresh from picking up a second-career victory in the 2019 Dakar Rally, and fans are being encouraged to greet him on arrival at Brisbane Airport.

The 31-year-old captured a spectacular victory in Peru on Thursday and – now without his customary mullet hair-do courtesy of a lost bet with fellow KTM star Laia Sanz – Price is due home tomorrow afternoon.

If you would like to welcome Price home on arrival, his personal management crew at Owlpine Group have confirmed he will be flying in on Qantas QF524 at the Brisbane Domestic Terminal and is scheduled for Sunday, 20 January, at 12:30pm. Fans are being welcomed and encouraged to await his homecoming.

Price has delivered a list of remarkable results since debuting at Dakar in 2015, scoring third on debut before winning the 2016 edition. He was injured in 2017, but bounced back for third in 2018 and then went on to claim a gritty win in 2019 despite breaking his wrist a month prior to the race’s start.


Source: MotoOnline.com.au

Waters, Maxwell and Giles to offer tuition at Suzuki track day

Suzuki champions to share track knowledge at Phillip Island.

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Team Suzuki Ecstar Australia duo Josh Waters and Wayne Maxwell will join former champion Shawn Giles as coaches of Suzuki’s Sportsbike Track Day event to be hosted on 1 February at Phillip Island.

Available for an additional $150, participants will receive track insight, secrets and riding tips gained in over 40 years of premier class racing. A circuit debrief will take place in a classroom style format before the trio suit up and demonstrate proper line selection and body position, while offering feedback to help participates shave their lap times.

The track is open to all Suzuki sportsbike owners, from first timers through to track day regulars. Spots are available from $200, where riders will be grouped according to experience and receive six 20-minute sessions.

For an additional $50, riders can book a 20-minute test ride session aboard the latest generation GSX-R1000 and experience the hardest-accelerating, sharpest handling, most technically advanced GSX-R ever. Garage Hire is also available for $25 per rider. For more information, visit www.suzukiaustraliamerchandise.com/collections/events.

Source: CycleOnline.com.au