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MotoGP Misano II stats update | Preview | Schedule

September 17, 2020 mcnews Leave a comment

MotoGP gears up to take on Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli in the Gran Premio TISSOT dell’Emilia Romagna e della Riviera di Rimini, returning to the track after not only the San Marino GP, but also after a day of testing that could well increase the intrigue even more. But before we get stuck into previewing the weekend ahead let’s take a look at the latest stats and facts updates after the opening round of the Misano double-header last weekend.

MotoGP Stats Update

Last weekend at Misano Franco Morbidelli became the 113th premier class race winner and the 28th since MotoGP was introduced in 2002.

2020 #SanMarinoGP MotoGP podium
1 Franco Morbidelli – Petronas Yamaha SRT – Yamaha – 42:02.272
2 Francesco Bagnaia – Pramac Racing – Ducati – +2.217
3 Joan Mir – Team Suzuki Ecstar – Suzuki – +2.290

With Fabio Quartararo (Spain, Andalucia), Brad Binder (Brno), Miguel Oliveira (Styria), and Franco Morbidelli, this is the second time 1949 that there are four first time winners in the opening six races of a premier class season, along with the opening season in 1949 with Harold Daniell, Les Graham, Nello Pagani and William Doran).

This is the first time there are four first-time winners in a premier class season since 2016, equalling the record of different first-time winners in the premier class in a single season set in 1949, 1974, 1976, 1982 and 2016.

Franco Morbidelli is the fifth different winner of the season which is already as much as the 2017, 2018 and 2019 seasons. The last time there were more than five was in 2016 with nine different winners (the record in the class).

With Fabio Quartararo (Spain, Andalucia) and Franco Morbidelli, this is the first time that two riders from the same Independent Team won a MotoGP race in the same season since Marco Melandri and Toni Elias back in 2006.

On his return from injury, Francesco Bagnaia finished second for his first MotoGP podium, in his 21st race.

With Morbidelli and Bagnaia, this is the first Italian 1-2 in MotoGP since Assen in 2017 with Valentino Rossi and Danilo Petrucci, and the first Italian 1-2 in the premier class at Misano.

With Morbidelli and Bagnaia in MotoGP and Marini and Bezzecchi in Moto2, this is the first Italian 1-2 in both premier and intermediate classes at the same GP since the 2002 German GP at the Sachsenring.

12 different riders have stood on the podium so far, equalling the number of podium finishers in the opening six premier class races from 1951, 1956, 1973 and 1976. The record is 13, set in 1952. In addition, 2007 was the last time there were 12 different podium finishers in a single MotoGP season. The record in a single MotoGP season since the class was introduced in 2002 is 13, set in 2004.

Joan Mir was third for his second MotoGP podium, along with Austria when he finished second. This is the first Suzuki podium in Misano since Chris Vermeulen and John Hopkins finished second and third in 2007.

At the Emilia Romagna GP, Valentino Rossi will start his 250th premier class race with Yamaha, becoming the first rider to reach that milestone in the class. Next closest is Dani Pedrosa, with 217 premier class races with Honda.

Valentino Rossi will start his 250th premier class race with Yamaha this weekend

The san Marino GP was the sixth MotoGP race without a Spanish winner, the longest sequence since Donington 2008 to Losail 2009, 12 races in a row.

With Fabio Quartararo crashing out and failing to score any points for the first time since Australia last year, only two riders have scored points in every MotoGP race in 2020: Andrea Dovizioso and Takaaki Nakagami. Of them, only Nakagami has always finished in the top ten.

There has been no Honda rider on the podium so far. This is the first time there has been no Honda rider on the podium in five or more successive premier class races since Honda returned to the premier class in 1982.

Johann Zarco finished the San Marino GP in 15th place, crossing the line just 20.152 seconds behind race winner Franco Morbidelli, which is the third closest top 15 of all-time in a full length premier class Grand Prix.

Andrea Dovizioso is leading the MotoGP Championship with 76 points, the lowest score for a Championship leader after the opening six races of a premier class season since the current scoring system was introduced in 1993.

Dovizioso is now 51 points ahead of his teammate Danilo Petrucci in 15th place; this is the closest top 15 after the opening six races of the season in the premier class since the current scoring system was introduced in 1993.

With 18 points between Dovizioso and Maverick Viñales, this is also the closest top five after the first six races.

Only one of the rookies in MotoGP this year has previously won a GP race at Misano: Brad Binder (Moto3, 2016).

Alex Marquez has three podiums at the track: Moto3 in 2013, 2014 and Moto2 in 2019.

Stefan Bradl, replacing Marc Marquez, is scheduled to make his 100th MotoGP start at the Emilia Romagna GP.

Misano II Preview

The man now in the hot seat, despite all the twists, turns and surprises of the season, is veteran Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati Team). The Italian had a more muted race weekend last time out, but his trademark consistency brought him home with some solid points – and more than enough to overhaul former points leader Fabio Quartararo (Petronas Yamaha SRT) after the Frenchman crashed out.

Dovizioso is six-points ahead and that may not seem much, but he was brimming with positivity after the test and we can likely expect him to be a little further up the board this weekend.

Andrea Dovizioso

“The Championship is crazy. A lot of up and down for everybody, which is why we are very close. I’m happy to be in this position at this moment of the Championship, but for sure we have to make a step to be able to fight. I’m really happy about Tuesday’s test, we had two targets and we achieved those two targets. I’m really happy about that, my speed was really good. A lot of riders did a really good pace. In the way I rode it was much better, we understood which corners I wasn’t good enough and I was able to be better, more relaxed. We changed the set-up to allow me to help me in a better way and we tried something on the bike, a new piece, and it was a bit better. Overall the feeling is better than Sunday for sure, but there are a lot of really fast riders, especially after Misano 1 – we will see. For me it’s always difficult to make a really good lap in qualifying and in MotoGP, it’s very important. But that’s not the biggest issue at the moment. Most of the race I wasn’t fast enough, it’s very important to be stronger now than what I did was. For example at the start of the race I was with Pecco, so I still had a chance to get a podium but I didn’t have the speed. I’m really happy with the way the test ended, so let’s see if everything we tried is true.”

The fastest Ducati last Sunday, however, was Francesco Bagnaia (Pramac Racing). Coming back from a broken leg, no one expected him to pick up exactly where he left off, but that he did. The impressive Italian blasted through to take his first podium, and made it look easy – so can he do it again? And could he even take to the top step? He’s a candidate to make it five first timers in seven races.

His team-mate Jack Miller was in the mix early on in the San Marino GP too, and then faded due to a wrong tyre choice, so he’ll be looking for more after examining that data. Danilo Petrucci (Ducati Team) will want a step forward as well, and Johann Zarco (Esponsorama Racing) could be one to watch. Still struggling to get back to full fitness, he nevertheless put in quite a shift at the test and ended the day third fastest.

Johann Zarco

“It is good to repeat this weekend on the same circuit. We had a test on Tuesday that was very important, because we had more time to try some different set-ups, also, try even more things, I improve my best lap time, and this is positive to start the weekend. Last race I had some problems at the end of the race, and for this weekend, the target is to feel more comfortable to finish the next race better, instead of lose positions, gain positions, and I hope to finish in a Top-10.”

San Marino GP victor Franco Morbidelli (Petronas Yamaha SRT), did not test, however. The first time winner was sidelined through illness but will be back for the weekend – so it will be interesting who’s managed to cut the gap to the runaway man at the front.

His team-mate Fabio Quartararo hasn’t even shown his full hand at Misano either as he crashed out too early to unleash his pace – so can he bounce back and take back to the top step? Ominously for the man who made everyone else fade into the distance in Jerez, he said he was working on race pace at the Misano test… when he already had a fair bit of before the extra track time. Can he regain that top spot?

At Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP, meanwhile, there’s even more to talk about. Maverick Viñales was on pole and then faded back in the early stages on the harder tyre… before finding some serious speed later in the race. Can he iron that out? At the test the Spaniard was fastest and focused on working with the medium tyre for much of the day, which he says is work he’ll continue during the race weekend. If he can solve that and get in the mix earlier on… Jaws music may be heard by those around him.

Maverick Viñales

“The feeling I had during the test was really positive. I was fast on both the medium and the soft rear tyre, so for sure we will try these tyre options again over the upcoming weekend. We tried some new items for the bike yesterday, and I felt really comfortable. I was setting good lap times without having to push all the way to the limit, so this is positive. However, we haven’t been able to test these new features under the exact same circumstances we have in the race, when we ride with a lot of Moto2 rubber on the track, so we’ll have to wait and see. In any case, I will be pushing 100% again, so I can start from the front to make sure we are in with the best chance possible to ride a good race.”

Valentino Rossi (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) was tantalisingly close to that 200th podium in the San Marino GP too. Over more than 400 corners of the race, ‘The Doctor’ was there – and then with a handful to go, got mugged by Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar). His pace was good and his defence of position exemplary as ever, however, so don’t count Rossi out… especially on home turf.

Valentino Rossi

“For us last Sunday it was an unforgettable day, especially for all the people who work for the academy project. We are very proud of our riders and very happy for my brother, Bez and especially for Pecco and Franco. Yes like you said if I could have arrived on the podium it would have been a historic moment, but unfortunately Mir overtook me on the last lap. For me anyway it was a good race. I was able to keep a good pace from the beginning but at the end I was a bit in trouble. I tried everything to remain on the podium, and I was able to stay in front of Rins but when Joan arrived he was too fast for me. It was a great shame because the podium is always special, Misano more, to share with Franco and Pecco could also be more special but it’s like this. It was a good day and good race, we have another chance this weekend, I think it will be difficult for everybody because I expect the other riders and bikes to be more competitive, and closer to us. So if we want to try and fight for the podium we have to try and improve Sunday and be stronger on Sunday. It was a good test on Tuesday, we worked very hard, I did a lot of laps and we had some stuff to try. Some things were better, some were worse. For tomorrow I don’t think we will change a lot the race bike to start with. After we’ll see during the weekend. Also, the forecast and track conditions will be very important.”

Joan Mir has scored more points than anyone else in the last few races, despite the Red Flag in Styria interrupting what looked like a charge for the win, and the San Marino GP saw the Suzuki man put in a stunner and take his second podium. His ruthlessly brilliant charge through whole postcodes of distance on Sunday to catch and dispatch those fighting for third was something to behold – and then he says he found some more race pace at the test. His gap to the top of the Championship is just 16 points… and he’s the one man in the seven close at the top who hasn’t won yet. Mir is, surely, one of, if not THE candidate to continue the history-making run of first time winners.

His Team Suzuki Ecstar team-mate Alex Rins was no slouch in San Marino either. Still recovering from his shoulder injury sustained earlier in the season, the number 42 was right in the podium fight until the last couple of laps. He also explained that compensating for the weaker shoulder ended up giving him arm pump in the latter stages, but another new week is a little more time to recover – and some more time in testing to work towards a solution. The last time a Suzuki was on the podium at Misano before Mir’s second place last time out was in 2007, but that day… there were two. Could we see that again in the Emilia Romagna GP? And which way round? It’s a stunning battle at the Hamamatsu factory between two seriously fast riders.

At KTM, meanwhile, the euphoria of the last few races faded into a tougher first weekend at Misano, but the Austrian factory seemed to have a positive day testing, with Pol Espargaro (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) happy with an improvement in race pace and ending the day in fourth. Can he move forward? His rookie team-mate and Brno winner Brad Binder is always an interesting prospect too, and Misano was the first time the South African hadn’t teased a serious threat on race day. Styria GP Miguel Oliveira (Red Bull KTM Tech 3) was also testing and said the focus was on those details they’d be lacking… so if they’ve solved those, what can we expect from KTM in Emilia Romagna?

Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu) continues to lead the Honda charge, and despite a tougher race in the San Marino GP there are positives to be expected next time out. Testing saw the Japanese rider end the day happy, and he’ll want to get back to the top five fight he’s frequented so far in 2020. Alex Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) will also want a step forward after a tougher time since some solid opening races.

Takaaki Nakagami

“So this is the second of two races in a row in Misano and I have a really positive feeling for this weekend. Normally with back-to-back races we are able to make a big improvement from the first race to the second race. Also here on Tuesday we had a one-day test between the races here. So I’m really looking forward to this weekend because we struggled last weekend, but during the race on Sunday we found quite a positive feeling on the bike so that was an important step for this weekend. We need to keep working hard to develop the bike, but Friday is key because if we can get off to a good start we can fight for the podium on Sunday. So we’ll try to concentrate and stay positive.”

Aprilia Racing Team Gresini’s Aleix Espargaro and Bradley Smith, after a solid day of testing and a mountain of laps, will also be looking for a step forward at one of Aprilia’s home races. The Noale factory are continuing work on their new bike and both have scored some solid points finishes, but will definitely want more as the season goes on…

Seven riders are within less than 20 points at the top of the Championship. Every single one of them has now won a premier class race bar one… and that’s the man in form, Joan Mir. Four maiden winners in the first six races hasn’t happened since the first season of the MotoGP World Championship. Can Mir – or maybe Bagnaia – make it five in seven? We’re about to find out!

2020 MotoGP Calendar

Rnd	Date	Circuit
1	~~08 March (Moto2/Moto3)~~	~~Losail International Circuit~~
2	~~19 July~~	~~Circuito de Jerez-Ángel Nieto~~
3	~~26 July~~	~~Circuito de Jerez-Ángel Nieto~~
4	~~09 August~~	~~Automotodrom Brno~~
5	~~16 August~~	~~Red Bull Ring-Spielberg~~
6	~~23 August~~	~~Red Bull Ring-Spielberg~~
7	~~13 September~~	~~Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli~~
8	20 September	Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli
9	27 September	Barcelona – Catalunya
10	11 October	Le Mans
11	18 October	MotorLand Aragón
12	25 October	MotorLand Aragón
13	08 November	Comunitat Valenciana-Ricardo Tormo
14	15 November	Comunitat Valenciana-Ricardo Tormo
15	22 November	Autodromo Internacional do Algarve

MotoGP World Championship Points

Pos	Rider	Bike	Points
1	Andrea DOVIZIOSO	Ducati	76
2	Fabio QUARTARARO	Yamaha	70
3	Jack MILLER	Ducati	64
4	Joan MIR	Suzuki	60
5	Maverick VIÑALES	Yamaha	58
6	Valentino ROSSI	Yamaha	58
7	Franco MORBIDELLI	Yamaha	57
8	Brad BINDER	KTM	53
9	Takaaki NAKAGAMI	Honda	53
10	Miguel OLIVEIRA	KTM	48
11	Pol ESPARGARO	KTM	41
12	Alex RINS	Suzuki	40
13	Johann ZARCO	Ducati	31
14	Francesco BAGNAIA	Ducati	29
15	Danilo PETRUCCI	Ducati	25
16	Aleix ESPARGARO	Aprilia	18
17	Alex MARQUEZ	Honda	15
18	Iker LECUONA	KTM	15
19	Bradley SMITH	Aprilia	8
20	Tito RABAT	Ducati	7
21	Cal CRUTCHLOW	Honda	7
22	Michele PIRRO	Ducati	4
23	Stefan BRADL	Honda	0

Gran Premio TISSOT dell’Emilia Romagna e della Riviera di Rimini Schedule

Time	Class	Session
1700	Moto3	FP1
1755	MotoGP	FP1
1855	Moto2	FP1
1950	MotoE	FP1
2115	Moto3	FP2
2210	MotoGP	FP2
2310	Moto2	FP2
0010(Sat)	MotoE	FP2

Time	Class	Session
1700	Moto3	FP3
1755	MotoGP	FP3
1855	Moto2	FP3
1945	MotoE	EPole
2035	Moto3	Q1
2100	Moto3	Q2
2130	MotoGP	FP4
2210	MotoGP	Q1
2235	MotoGP	Q2
2310	Moto2	Q1
2335	Moto2	Q2
0015 (Sunday)	MotoE	Race

Time	Class	Session
1620	Moto3	WUP
1650	Moto2	WUP
1720	MotoGP	WUP
1805	MotoE	Race 2
1900	Moto3	Race
2020	Moto2	Race
2200	MotoGP	Race

Source: MCNews.com.au

News

Ducati Scrambler 1100 Pro & Sport Pro Review

September 17, 2020 mcnews Leave a comment

Motorcycle Test by Adam Child ‘Chad’ – Photography by Joe Dick

Ducati’s 2020 top-spec Scrambler, the 1100 Sport PRO, is hands-down the most sophisticated of its hugely popular Scrambler range.

2021 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Sport Pro gets Ohlins front and rear

It is one of two new Scramblers Bologna has introduced into its line-up which must comply with the stringent new Euro 5 rules in some markets, and while they share the same lovely air-cooled Desmodromic L-twin, the Sport PRO comes with fully adjustable Öhlins suspension front and back, while the 1100 PRO rides on fully adjustable 45mm Marzocchi forks and a side-mounted direct Kayaba rear.

2021 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Pro rides on a Kayaba shock and Marzocchi forks

Ducati has also made a lot of welcome design changes for 2020, which include a restyled rear-end, a unique double-stacked exhaust, and a repositioned number-plate.

Certain Ducatisti will only ever crave the arm-stretching brilliance of the winged Superleggera, or perhaps the sometimes-scary new Streetfighter, which are getting all the headlines, but I’m wired a little differently. The still-air-cooled Sport PRO is the bike I have been waiting for. My summer evening blasts demand it.

Why? Simple. I don’t need to be on the wrong side of the law to get my thrills. The Scrambler doesn’t make those kinds of demands on you. It’s a grab your jacket and a pair of protective jeans and enjoy the ride thing.

But that summer-evening happiness is a little pricey.

And what you’re paying for is the suspension.

2021 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Pro has a black frame and black seat beside the 'Ocean Drive' coloured bodywork — 2021 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Pro has a black frame and black seat beside the ‘Ocean Drive’ coloured bodywork

The slightly cheaper $18,400 (Ride Away) Marzocchi-forked 1100 PRO is offered in very summery ‘Ocean Drive’ livery and carries wider bars, which you’d normally find on the traditional Scrambler.

Spend a few dollars more, $21,100 (Ride Away) for the Öhlins-equipped Sport PRO, and you’ll find the handlebars are lower, narrower, and topped with bar-end mirrors. And it comes in matte black, which is maybe not very summery, but it certainly is hot.

2021 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Sport Pro is in Matt Black everywhere apart form the brown seat

STILL COOLED BY AIR

2021 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Sport Pro and Pro are powered by an 1079 cc two-valve L-Twin

The Italian-made, two-valves-per-cylinder engine is pure Ducati DNA. A remarkably similar motor was used in the Monster back in 2011. It produced a stated 100 hp before tight emission laws appeared, and it remains one of the most attractive-looking engines Ducati ever produced. Now mated to the new double-stacked exhaust, which looks like a classy aftermarket item, it has greatly enhanced the Scrambler’s kerb-side appeal.

2021 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Sport Pro and Pro have 150 mm of suspension travel

Thankfully, Euro 5 hasn’t strangled the note too much. The 1100 burbles nicely as it ticks over at idle, and is quite charismatic on the throttle. It’s not as symphonic as the older-gen Ducatis you may remember, but considering the stringency of the new regulations Ducati had to conform to, it’s quite impressive.

Because I’m old, and because I grew up with air-cooled bikes, I’m very pleased Ducati stayed with the soulful, air-cooled motor, rather than chasing more power from an unsightly and relatively characterless liquid-cooled lump.

SNATCH BE GONE

Those same Euro 5 laws also mean revised fueling for both models. But there has been no loss of refinement. If you haven’t ridden a Ducati twin for a while, that notorious snatchy fueling is all but a distant memory. From small throttle openings, it is effortless and accurate, with usable torque from low in the rev range and a willingness to pull away from slow speeds in a tall gear. This makes it a doddle to ride around town, and for relatively inexperienced riders getting on their first big bike.

2021 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Sport Pro and Pro have a 15-litre fuel tank and on the Sport Pro a large '1100' is stencilled on the tank — 2021 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Sport Pro and Pro have a 15-litre fuel tank and on the Sport Pro a large ‘1100’ is stencilled on the tank

Its performance may be unintimidating, but it’s still enough to be entertaining, and to pop the front wheel up in the lower gears. When I first rode the original 803 Scrambler back in 2015 on its press launch in America, I adored its style, image, and handling. But as an experienced rider, I was left a little disheartened by a shortage of power. I wanted another 20 or 30 horses; just a little extra. Ducati has answered my want with the 1100. Just keep short-shifting though the smooth gearbox and enjoy successive dollops of grunt.

But choose to ride the torque, and it is more than quick enough, especially since it weighs just 189 kg dry. If you find yourself revving the Scrambler PRO above 7500 rpm and towards the soft rev-limiter then, sorry, you’ve bought the wrong bike.

2021 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Pro has higher handlebars than the Sport Pro

Fuel economy isn’t bad, as you’d expect from a relatively low-revving air-cooled twin. The nicely sculpted 15-litre fuel tank offers a range of around 250-270km, which isn’t bad.

The ergonomics are accommodating, more so on the standard PRO, with its more relaxed riding position. The unique digital clocks have two trip-metres, a digital fuel gauge along the bottom and range to empty.

Both models have a conventional double sided swingarm

NOW FOR FUN STUFF

On the sportier Öhlins-clad Sport, the ’bars are much lower and straighter, nudging you into a more aggressive riding attitude when compared to the standard PRO model with its wider bars.

The Sport’s new ergonomics move you further forward in the chassis, while the bar-end café racer-style mirrors give it a more sportier profile and feel.

86 horsepower at 7500 rpm and 88.4 Nm of torque at 4750 rpm are the peak numbers

On the move, you instantly feel the Scrambler’s plus points: ease-of-use and natural ability, which is mainly down to its innate handling and that low weight. The Öhlin’s suspension is controlled but not too sporty-firm; the ride is comfortable and rather luxurious, which is quite an achievement given there’s no rear linkage on the suspension.

As a consequence, the ride is hugely satisfying. You roll into bends, carry corner speed, feel the feedback through that excellent suspension, and use the torque on the exit. The Pirelli MT60RS rubber might be styled like race wets, but the tyres handle and grip far better than they might appear to. And if you get over-excited, you have cornering ABS on the way in and lean-sensitive traction control on the way out. Mid-corner there is abundant ground clearance; this Scrambler isn’t afraid of showing the world what the bottom of its engine looks like mid-corner.

Rims are 10-spoke alloys, 3.5x18-inch at the front and 5.5x17-inch at the rear — Rims are 10-spoke alloys, 3.5×18-inch at the front and 5.5×17-inch at the rear

PRO OR SPORT PRO?

Just because the standard PRO isn’t dripping in Öhlin’s suspension doesn’t mean Ducati went to the Dollar Shop for its suspension. Neither Marzocchi or Kayaba are rubbish, and have the same adjustment options as the top model. The MT60RS tyres remain the same, as do rake, trail, all other chassis dimensions, and, according to Ducati, the dry weight is identical.

2021 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Pro uses an adjustable Kayaba shock

That said, more upright ’bars give the sensation the PRO model is a fraction lighter, which is possibly because the wide ’bars give you more leverage, allowing you to turn the bike easier.

2021 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Sport Pro gets an Ohlins shock in place of the regular Pro models Kayaba

Again, on the standard PRO model the ride quality is impressive, possibly a fraction easier with less load on the spring and more laden sag on the rear compared to the Sport. The main difference, aside from the stance, is how the suspension copes with road imperfections, bumps, and crests at speed.

2021 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Sport Pro and Pro models have an upper steel trellis frame

The Sport is more relaxed: it holds its weight perfectly, the suspension moving freely while keeping the bike stable and giving feedback – like a swan that’s so graceful on the pond’s surface, while its legs churn frantically below.

Both bikes have 150 mm of suspension travel at both ends

On the Marzocchi/Kayaba-equipped PRO there is more jolting at speed. It’s not as smooth or as quick to react, or iron the road flat like the Öhlins set-up. The PRO isn’t bad, but you’d notice the difference when riding them back to back.

When you open up the throttle and really start to push the handling, the Öhlins set up is always precise. On the road, you’re nowhere near the boundaries of the Sport’s suspension set up, but on the standard bike, if you decide to put your head down and really go for it, its limitations wouldn’t be too far away.

But who rides a Scrambler chasing lap times? And a new or inexperienced rider may well favour the softer set-up of the standard model. If you’d never ridden the Sport you’d find little to fault with the standard PRO. It’s bit like eating a burger at a McDonalds: fine, unless you’ve just had a homemade burger at a really good pub.

After riding both bikes back to back, I’m still uncertain which new Scrambler I favour.

Yes, the Öhlins set-up works better on the Sport model, but I prefer the taller, wider, more upright riding position of the standard PRO. You can push it into corners almost Supermoto-like, rather than hanging off the inside, which feels peculiar on a Scrambler. And I prefer the looks of the PRO.

Cat is under the engine which then leads to the pair of steel silencers with die-cast aluminium end caps

THINGS THAT HELP OUT

The Ducati Safety Pack comes as standard on both models (that’s rider aids to you and me) and is identical on both machines. There’s excellent cornering ABS and also lean-sensitive traction control, which can be deactivated only at standstill.

To make life simpler there are three rider modes – City, Journey and Active. Ducati has moved away from the former Urban, Touring and Sport for some reason; I’m sure it keeps someone in marketing happy.

A black metal 'X' is incorporated into the headlight with a blue vision bulb and DRL — A black metal ‘X’ is incorporated into the headlight with a blue vision bulb and DRL

City mode cuts 10 hp, offers a soft throttle map and increases the traction control. Journey and Active are both full power, but have dissimilar engine and throttle characteristics, and TC settings. It’s relatively easy to change between the modes on the move and the simple dash is relatively straightforward and easy to use. There aren’t countless submenus within menus, and you don’t have to be IT expert to work it all out. However, in today’s market, should we expect full-colour TFT clocks on a premium Ducati?

Non-intrusive ABS is always a bonus, but you could argue whether you really need changeable traction control, or a rider mode that reduces the Scrambler’s 86 hp any further, especially on perfect summer days (like we had on the test) when the grip seems endless. I’d imagine many Scramblers will find themselves in fashionable cobbled city streets of Rome, Paris, and Barcelona, and piloted by relatively inexperienced riders which may well end in embarrassment or hilarity, with or without those aids.

2021 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Pro - Dual element LCD panel — 2021 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Pro – Dual element LCD panel

The Scrambler isn’t afraid to attempt some light off-road. Mainly dusty tracks and smooth fire trails – and the rider aids may come in handy there too, especially for less experienced riders.

As you’d expect, the new Scrambler comes with a huge number of accessories for both you and your bike. Remember, you’re not just buying a motorcycle, you’re buying into ‘the land of joy’, or ‘just PROs’, as the new hashtag tells you and everyone else. Some may grimace at the marketing and ‘cool’ imagery, but it works for Ducati at hitting a new audience. And I have to say the clothing and accessories range really is pretty cool.

2021 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Pro is perhaps even more handsome than its Ohlins suspended richer Sport Pro sibling

THE VERDICT PLEASE

I really enjoyed the now venerable Ducati Scrambler 1100, and appreciated the simple air-cooled platform. It was unassuming, yet sophisticated, and elegant. It handled, and had just enough power to brighten up your day.

Ducati has now upped its game, and I adore the new styling. The new Scrambler is a significant step above over the older bike. But, if you were wanting more power and improved handling, then you may be slightly disheartened.

Compared to the BMW and Triumph Scrambler competition, the Ducati is down on power and torque.

But if you are hoping for Italian panache, and arguably the best styling in this sector, then look no further.

Your only decision now is PRO or Sport PRO?

2021 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Pro is $2700 cheaper than the Sport Pro

1100 Sport PRO Specifications
Engine	1,079 cc, L-Twin, Desmodromic distribution, 2 valves per cylinder, air cooled
Bore x Stroke	98 x 71 mm
Compression Ratio	11:1
Claimed Power	63 kW / 86 hp at 7,500 rpm/min
Claimed Torque	88.4 Nm at 4,750 RPM
Fueling	Electronic fuel injection, Ø55 mm throttle body with full Ride by Wire (RbW)
Gears	6 speed, Straight cut gears, Ratio 1.85:1,chain; Front sprocket 15; Rear sprocket 39, /1=37/15 2=30/17 3=28/20 4=26/22 5=24/23 6=23/24
Clutch	Light action, wet, multiplate clutch with hydraulic control. Self-servo action on drive, slipper action on over-run
Frame	Trellis
Forks	Öhlins fully adjustable Ø48 mm usd fork
Shock	Öhlins monoshock, pre-load and rebound adjustable
Tyres /Wheels	10-spoke in light alloy, 3.50″ x 18″ / 10-spoke in light alloy, 5.50″ x 17″
Front Brakes	2 x Ø320 mm semi-floating discs, radially mounted Brembo Monobloc M4.32 callipers, 4-piston, axial pump with Bosch Cornering ABS as standard equipment
Rear Brake	Ø245 mm disc, 1-piston floating calliper with Bosch Cornering ABS as standard equipment
Electronics	Riding Modes, Power Mode, Ducati Safety Pack (Cornering ABS + DTC), RbW, LED light-guide, LED rear light with diffusion-light, LCD instruments with gear and fuel level indications, Steel tank with interchangeable aluminium side panels, Machine-finished aluminium belt covers, Under-seat storage compartment with USB socket
Instrumentation	LCD
Dry Weight	189 kg
Kerb Weight	206 kg
Seat Height	810 mm
Wheelbase	1,514 mm
Rake / Trail	24°.5 / (4,4 in)
Fuel Capacity	15 L / 5.2 l/100km – CO2 120 g/km
Service Intervals	12,000 km /12 months
Warranty	24 months unlimited mileage
Available	Now
Price	$21,100 Ride Away.

1100 PRO Specifications
Engine	1,079 cc, L-Twin, Desmodromic distribution, 2 valves per cylinder, air cooled
Bore x Stroke	98 x 71 mm
Compression Ratio	11:1
Claimed Power	62,3 kW / 86 hp at 7500 rpm
Claimed Torque	88.4 Nm at 4750 rpm
Fueling	Electronic fuel injection, Ø55 mm throttle body with full Ride by Wire (RbW)
Gears	6 speed, Straight cut gears, Ratio 1.85:1,chain; Front sprocket 15; Rear sprocket 39, /1=37/15 2=30/17 3=28/20 4=26/22 5=24/23 6=23/24
Clutch	Light action, wet, multiplate clutch with hydraulic control. Self-servo action on drive, slipper action on over-run
Frame	Trellis
Forks	Marzocchi fully adjustable Ø45 mm usd fork
Shock	Kayaba monoshock, pre-load and rebound adjustable
Tyres /Wheels	10-spoke in light alloy, 3.50″ x 18″ / 10-spoke in light alloy, 5.50″ x 17″
Front Brakes	2 x Ø320 mm semi-floating discs, radially mounted Brembo Monobloc M4.32 callipers, 4-piston, axial pump with Bosch Cornering ABS as standard equipment
Rear Brake	Ø245 mm disc, 1-piston floating calliper with Bosch Cornering ABS as standard equipment
Electronics	Riding Modes, Power Mode, Ducati Safety Pack (Cornering ABS + DTC), RbW, LED light-guide, LED rear light with diffusion-light, LCD instruments with gear and fuel level indications, Steel tank with interchangeable aluminium side panels, Machine-finished aluminium belt covers, Under-seat storage compartment with USB socket
Instrumentation	LCD
Dry Weight	189 kg
Kerb Weight	206 kg
Seat Height	810 mm
Wheelbase	1,514 mm
Rake / Trail	24°.5 / (4,4 in)
Fuel Capacity	15 L / 5.2 l/100km – CO2 120 g/km
Service Intervals	12,000 km /12 months
Warranty	24 months unlimited mileage
Available	Now
Price	$18,400 Ride Away

Scrambler 1100 Pro available on the road for $18,400 Ride Away, while the Scrambler 1100 Sport Pro will be $21,100 Ride Away.

Source: MCNews.com.au

News, WSBK

WorldSBK hits Catalunya for the first time ever | Preview | Schedule

September 17, 2020 mcnews Leave a comment

For the first time in the history of the Motul FIM Superbike World Championship, the Circuit of Catalunya-Barcelona becomes part of the 2020 calendar and thus becomes the sixth track in Spain to host a round of the production-derived motorcycle championship. The Acerbis Catalunya Round takes place next weekend from Friday 18th to Sunday 20th September.

With three events remaining until the end of the Championship, the Catalan round could mark an important milestone in the run-up to the world titles. In WorldSBK the challenge is still open between five-time world champion Jonathan Rea, currently first in the overall standings, and Ducati rider Scott Redding just thirty-six points away. In WorldSSP Andrea Locatelli dominates the championship standings with a seventy-nine point lead over Jules Cluzel and could win the world title in Barcelona.

One of the highlights of the Catalan capital, the Circuit of Catalunya-Barcelona was inaugurated in 1992 in view of the Olympic Games. It is 4.627 kilometres long and has 16 corners, eight of which on the right and six on the left. Most of the corners are wide and very fast, and are interchanged with straights that allow riders to reach speeds as high as 320 km/h. The circuit is undulating and is considered a very technical track, with several points that can put a strain on the bike and the rider. Among others, it is worth noting the first braking point after the start finish line, at the end of the very long straight, where we will see the bikes engaged in one of the most demanding braking sections of the year. The races of the premier class will each count twenty laps of the track for a total distance of 93.1 kilometres. Riders were able to test at the circuit in the scorching summer heat and it was Rea who came out on top in that test ahead of Scott Redding.

Jonathan Rea

“It is a really exciting moment because I grew up watching MotoGP racing at Montmelo and I loved the layout. I played it on the Playstation and it was always my favourite track. We were lucky to get the chance to test there in the middle of the summer and I felt great with it. I had a smile inside my helmet when I was riding. We learned lots of things to help us get ahead in first practice on Friday morning. Another reason to get excited is that it is the team’s home race. So while we will not have a full ‘squad’ of sponsors and extended family of the crew, we will be racing for them. It is an important race for the team, which is based just over the grandstand in Granollers. Of course the target is always to win, so we will put our heads together and work in the same way as we have been doing – preparing the bike to be strong over race distance. I am looking forward to the battles it is going to bring.”

Rea’s KRT team-mate, Alex Lowes, battled a gastrointestinal virus throughout the Teruel Round to claim three top six finishes and will be looking to stand on the podium for the first time since the season-opening Australian Round, when he won Race 2.

Alex Lowes

“I am really looking forward to this coming weekend at Montmelo. I know we say that every week but after the most recent race at Motorland it was, physically, very tough. My body was not up to it because I was ill. I still took a lot of positives and a lot of confidence from it to be able to get a sixth, sixth and a fifth, despite feeling how I did. I felt good with the bike after not feeling quite as good with the settings the weekend before in Aragon. So we made some good steps with the set-up last time. We have tested at Montmelo already; it is a great track and I think it is going to be positive addition to the WorldSBK calendar. I am confident there is going to be some really good racing as well. It is a little bit of a shame that we will not have all the fans and everybody there for the team’s home race. I am very proud we are going to be there for KRT and hopefully we can get back on the podium in the team’s back yard.”

Redding still lies second in the Championship despite losing ground to Rea following the Race 1 crash with the British rider bouncing back in perfect fashion in the Tissot Superpole Race to claim victory. Redding was strong in Montmelo during the test and will be hoping to continue that strong pace throughout the Catalunya Round.

Scott Redding

“During the tests in Barcelona the feeling was positive but it is clear that the race weekend is always a different story. I hope to be able to take further steps forward compared to the good feeling of the test. In Aragon, we struggled especially in a couple of corners that are similar to the ones we will find in Barcelona. We will have to work to fix these details since the very first laps of free practices.”

Chaz Davies also had a tricky Teruel Round after a crash in Race 2; the British rider hoping to bounce back as he is in a fight for third in the standings and looking to move up the order at a track he and teammate Redding know well.

Chaz Davies

“It will be an interesting challenge on a new circuit for us. We collected important data in the test and the feelings were encouraging. On paper, it could be a positive circuit for Ducati. I’m confident I can do well and extend the trend of positive results after the three podiums obtained in Aragon“.

Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha) currently heads the battle for third place after three top seven finishes at the Teruel Round, leading Davies by just six points. Razgatlioglu also showed strong pace during the test at Catalunya, dicing it out with Redding at the top of the timesheets, giving the Turkish sensation confidence he can get back on the podium. Team-mate Michael van der Mark is also in the battle for third with the Dutchman hoping he will be able to stand on the podium again, having last been there during the Aragon Round’s Superpole Race.

Michael van der Mark

“Really happy that we have another race weekend, again in Spain, but this time on a new track for us. I’m looking forward to it because the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya is an amazing track and it’s great to have World Superbikes there. It’s a shame for us that there are still no fans but I think it’s a good circuit where we can have some good battles. We had a really good test there just before the restart of the season, so I’m looking forward to it and hopefully this weekend we are able to fight for the podium again.”

Toprak Razgatlıoğlu

“I am really looking forward to riding my Yamaha R1 again. After some disappointing results in Aragón, we were also able to find some positives in the end, but the aim is to fight for podiums and victory in Barcelona. We had a good test here in July when it was very hot – I only knew the circuit from video games before so it was good to have some laps and be quite fast before the race weekend. I think the layout suits my riding style, we can use heavy braking to our advantage here again and I am looking forward to the races.”

Five-time Grand Prix winner Jonas Folger is gearing up for his maiden FIM Superbike World Championship appearance, racing a Yamaha R1 WorldSBK specification machine out of the Team Benovo Action by MGM Racing Yamaha pit box. Folger made his Grand Prix motorcycle racing debut in 2008 and achieved five victories across the 125cc, Moto3 and Moto2 classes before stepping up to MotoGP for the 2017 campaign. Racing a Yamaha YZR-M1, the German enjoyed a fine start to the season, taking a best finish of second in front of his home crowd at the Sachsenring. Unfortunately, his career was then halted after being diagnosed with Gilbert’s syndrome. Since then, the 27-year-old has been steadily returning to the racing scene, riding again in Moto2 for five events in 2019, before committing to a full-season entry in the 2020 IDM Superbike Championship on a Yamaha R1. With the season shortened due to COVID-19, Folger has quickly adapted to the bike and series and has won all six races so far to put himself in reach of the title. With experience of both the Yamaha R1 and the Spanish venue, where he took a strong sixth-place finish during his MotoGP campaign, Folger is aiming to be in the mix this weekend.

Jonas Folger

“I look forward to this weekend, as I really wanted to do a wildcard WorldSBK ride this year on a Yamaha R1. I’m really happy to have my full team coming too from the IDM Superbikes, including all the crew and mechanics. We have a good package and we’re all very excited to arrive in Barcelona and show what we can do. It’s a good track for me, as I’ve spent a lot of laps there over the years, so I’m ready to put in a good performance.”

Andrea Dosoli – Yamaha Motor Europe Road Racing Manager

“The Barcelona wildcard was part of a wider racing programme, which we’ve been forced to reduce due to COVID-19. However, thanks to the help of all the involved parties we’ve finally made it possible and we’re happy to welcome Jonas Folger and Team Benovo Action by MGM Racing Yamaha to WorldSBK on our Yamaha R1. Having an extra bike on the grid is important for us, our fans and the championship. Jonas is doing incredibly well in IDM, showing great pace and a good feeling with the R1, therefore we’re looking forward to seeing him and his team take on their latest challenge. They can count on our full support and we hope they enjoy every lap of this new experience.”

Michael Ruben Rinaldi (GoEleven Ducati) has hauled himself up the Championship standings after a stunning Teruel Round where he claimed his first WorldSBK victory and podiums, moving up to sixth in the Championship ahead of Lowes, just two points behind van der Mark. The Italian rider will be looking to continue his form as his grip strengthens on the position of top Independent rider. In the fight with him for that is Loris Baz (Ten Kate Racing Yamaha), as the Frenchman aims to be at the sharp end at a track he knows well after a tricky Teruel Round left him just ninth overall.

Spanish rider Alvaro Bautista (Team HRC) lies in eighth place in the Championship after Honda appeared to make a step forward recently, allowing both him and teammate Leon Haslam to fight inside the top five. Haslam secured his best result of the season at MotorLand Aragon with fourth place whilst Bautista aims to rekindle strong, top ten form captured at Catalunya in his MotoGP days; could this be one of Honda’s best showings of the year? Another team that tested at the circuit, Team HRC are eager to continue their forward momentum.

Alvaro Bautista

“I think our target for Catalunya remains the same, to try and continue the positive trend towards progressively better performance. We are on a bike development path and are improving our feeling with the bike step by step. At Aragón we had two strong weekends where we were able to be competitive. It was a pity about the crashes of course but when you are pushing at the limit, these things can happen. Within the team, we are all very motivated and our goal is to try and be as competitive as we have been during the last rounds, and perhaps even find that little extra that would prevent us from having to ride every lap on the limit. We are really looking forward to Catalunya and to find some good sensations right from Friday.”

Leon Haslam

“I’m looking forward to the Catalunya round this weekend. I haven’t raced at this track for 18 years, so a long, long time ago but I’m excited to see the circuit featuring on the SBK calendar. We completed a useful test at the track not long ago and that gave us time to do the kind of set-up work we don’t have time for over a race weekend. Since that test, we’ve continued to make consistent steps forward, getting ever closer to our targets. The Barcelona track used to be one of my favourites, and it’s also the team’s home race so it would be great to score some good results here. And if we can maximise what we have right now, I think we might be able to challenge for the podium this weekend.”

Tom Sykes (BMW) and teammate Eugene Laverty were able to bounce back from a challenging Aragon Round with top ten finishes at the Teruel Round. Laverty himself took a best of eighth in the first race and has lots of experience in Barcelona from his GP days. Sykes was quick in testing and hopes to be there again come racing.

Tom Sykes

“I am definitely looking forward to the Barcelona race. The venue is fantastic; it’s a circuit that I always wanted to ride on. I then got the chance at the recent test there which in itself proved to be very, very useful. We were able to do quite a lot of testing there with our BMW S 1000 RR to get a lot of information plus it has also given us good track knowledge for the upcoming race weekend so I am very motivated to go there and carry on where we left off. I enjoy the track layout and I could see from the test that the bike was working really well in some sectors. The weather forecast itself is not looking too pleasant but given the fact of our previous results last year in wet conditions hopefully we can use that to our advantage if that’s the case.”

Eugene Laverty

“I feel very confident and optimistic ahead of the Barcelona race weekend for two reasons. First off we had a great test at the Catalunya circuit in July and on top of that I feel that we made huge strides forward in the understanding of the BMW S 1000 RR last time out at Aragón. This year my focus has always been aimed towards 20 laps rather than one and finally I’m beginning to reap the fruits of my labour. We are now very close to finding that final piece of the puzzle to propel us up the order.”

Back to the battle of the Independent teams, one outfit that had a strong Teruel Round was the GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Junior Team with Federico Caricasulo and Garrett Gerloff, both securing top ten finishes at MotorLand Aragon, with the duo looking to continue that recent form into the Catalunya Round. Maximilian Scheib had a promising showing in Teruel and hopes to build, Takumi Takahashi (MIE Racing HONDA) aims for more points and Sylvain Barrier (Brixx Performance) hopes that the level playing field of Montmelo will help him be in contention.

Takumi Takahashi

“Catalunya is a completely new track for me, I have only seen it in some videos so I honestly don’t know what to expect in terms of the circuit itself or how I will like it. I head there with an open mind though and am aware that Aragón allowed me to better understand my bike and how best to manage the tyres. I’m really looking forward to picking up at Barcelona where we left off at Aragón.”

The single Aprilia in season 2020 is being campaigned by Christophe Ponsson who returns to WorldSBK after opting to miss the Teruel Round.

Marco Melandri has left the Barni Racing Team and Samuele Cavalieri will make his first appearance of the year for the team in WorldSBK, stepping over from the CIV series.

Source: MCNews.com.au

MotoGP, News

Remy Gardner joins Red Bull KTM Ajo

September 16, 2020 mcnews Leave a comment

Remy Gardner now has almost 100 Grands Prix of experience under his belt despite his young age across a spread of machinery in Moto3 and Moto2. He has been a lively, fast and spectacular presence in the intermediate category since 2016 and made the breakthrough to be a podium challenger in 2019 when he grasped his first trophy in Argentina. He has already climbed the rostrum in 2020 – at the Grand Prix of Styria – and has notched two Pole Positions as he progresses with his education at the highest level.

Remy Gardner

“I am very happy to be signing this contract for the team of my dreams. I am proud to be part of the Red Bull and KTM family, and of Aki’s structure. I want to thank all of them for giving me this opportunity for 2021. I also thank all those who have helped me to get here. I can’t wait to start working with them next year and I hope that together we can do some amazing things.”

Pit Beirer – KTM Motorsports Director

“I’m really pleased that Remy is coming under our umbrella. We think he is a special rider and we have seen some strong and exciting skills in his race performances over the years. We think with Aki’s experience we can help him to make the next important step in his career.”

Already renowned for his all-out riding style and dedication, Gardner now joins Aki Ajo’s knowledgeable and proven set-up, and under the watchful gaze of the KTM GP Academy that has promoted two riders to the MotoGP structure in the last two seasons.

Aki Ajo has overseen two Moto2 world championship title and two runner-up distinctions in the last six years; helping in the development of current Red Bull KTM racers Miguel Oliveira and Brad Binder. He also worked extensively with Jack Miller.

Aki Ajo – Team Principal

“I’m very happy to have Remy in our project next year. He is a young talent, but at the same time he has extensive experience in the FIM World Championship. This combination of abilities is perfect for our project of developing riders. We are looking forward to working together next season. I know that Remy has something special compared to the rest of the competitors: he has great talent, a good feel for the bike and is a born fighter. I hope that, as a team, we can give him a boost during the season for the style that comes naturally to him. I am personally very excited to have Remy with us, and about what 2021 has in store.”

Source: MCNews.com.au

News

2021 Indian Thunderstroke and PowerPlus range reveal

September 16, 2020 mcnews Leave a comment

Indian Motorcycle has today announced its 2021 model-year line-up, which includes new model iterations and a step up in technology following the brand’s strongest sales quarter ever.

The current global pandemic is causing some supply chain issues for all industries but Indian Motorcycles Australia are confident that the 2021 models will start to arrive from late October.

New Vintage Dark Horse kicks off the range at $33,495

Joining the Indian Motorcycle cruiser lineup is the new Indian Vintage Dark Horse with soft black leather bags and fully blacked-out styling.

Featuring significant upgrades in 2021, the Roadmaster lineup is better than ever. Apple CarPlay is now standard across the lineup, while Roadmaster Limited and Roadmaster Dark Horse models feature Indian Motorcycle’s all-new ClimaCommand Rogue heated and cooled seat with Ride Command integration.

Joining the Roadmaster lineup is the Roadmaster Limited, which features gloss paint, chrome finishes, a modern fairing design, open front fender and slammed saddlebags.

Meanwhile, the restyled Roadmaster Dark Horse includes fully blacked-out finishes for mean and modern attitude.

Each model is powered by Indian Motorcycle’s powerful, air-cooled Thunderstroke 116 with premium features, including Metzeler Cruisetec tyres, lower fairings with adjustable airflow vents, heated grips and a push-button adjustable windshield.

Standard amenities across the entire Roadmaster lineup include remote-locking saddlebags and trunk with over 140 litres of combined storage, adjustable passenger floorboards, ABS, cruise control, keyless ignition, tyre pressure monitoring and full LED lighting.

The power buttons on the Chieftain, Roadmaster, Indian Springfield, and Indian Challenger models have been relocated to the switch cube on the handlebars to accommodate a new 12-volt charge port on the dash. The charge port conveniently provides riders with an opportunity to plug in and connect to a wider range of electronics.

2021 Indian big-bore model line-up

Indian Vintage Dark Horse: Starting at $33,495, available in Thunder Black Smoke.
Indian Vintage: Starting at $33,995, available in Crimson Metallic, and Deepwater Metallic over Dirt Track Tan
Indian Springfield Dark Horse: Starting at $35,495 available in Thunder Black Smoke, Sagebrush Smoke, and White Smoke.
Indian Springfield Limited: Starting at $35,995 available in Thunder Black / Dirt Track Tan and Maroon Metallic / Crimson Metallic.
Chieftain Dark Horse: Starting at $38,495, available in Thunder Black Smoke, Ruby Smoke, and Titanium Smoke.
Chieftain Limited: Starting at $38,995, available in Thunder Black Pearl, and Radar Blue.
Indian Challenger Dark Horse: Starting at $39,495, available in Thunder Black Smoke, White Smoke, and Bronze Smoke.
Indian Challenger Limited: Starting at $39,995, available in Thunder Black Pearl, Ruby Metallic, and Deepwater Metallic.
Roadmaster: Starting at $42,995, available in Thunder Black Pearl, Maroon Metallic over Crimson Metallic, and Alumina Jade over Thunder Black.
Roadmaster Dark Horse: Starting at $41,495, available in Thunder Black Smoke, White Smoke, and Bronze Smoke.
Roadmaster Limited: Starting at $41,995, available in Crimson Metallic and Thunder Black Azure Crystal.

ClimaCommand Heated & Cooled Seat

In addition to being standard equipment on the Roadmaster Limited and Roadmaster Dark Horse, Indian Motorcycle’s new ClimaCommand heated and cooled seat is also available as an upgrade across all Thunderstroke models. New for 2021, the ClimaCommand seat is available in two style variations, Classic and Rogue, which has more modern, streamlined style.

Additionally, the 2021 ClimaCommand seat now allows riders to adjust heating and cooling directly through the Ride Command infotainment system on select 2020 and 2021 models, offering riders a new, and easy way to manage comfort while on the road. With a low, medium, or high setting, the thermoelectric technology is used to independently cool or heat the rider and passenger seat, while a flexible graphene material allows the heating or cooling to disperse through the entire surface area of the seat.

The non-perforated seat is 100% water resistant and highly durable. The ClimaCommand seat is available as an added accessory for all 2014 through 2021 Thunderstroke models, though 2020 and 2021 Chieftain and Roadmaster riders can integrate the seat within the bike’s Ride Command system.

Apple CarPlay

Standard on all 2021 Roadmaster, Chieftain, and Indian Challenger models equipped with Ride Command with navigation. Apple CarPlay delivers an easier, more customised level of control for music, navigation preferences, and mobile device information.

Pathfinder Adaptive LED Headlight & Pathfinder S LED Driving Lights

Available as an accessory upgrade, Indian Motorcycle introduces the all-new Pathfinder Adaptive LED Headlight for most 2015-2021 Thunderstroke models, and Pathfinder S LED Driving lights for most Chieftain, Roadmaster, and Indian Challenger models. The all-new Pathfinder Adaptive LED Headlight senses the bike’s lean angle and activates individual LED projector beams to provide unprecedented visibility.

With 15 individual beams, and featuring technology that monitors the bike’s lean angle in real-time, the Adaptive Headlight delivers unmatched illumination of the road ahead. In addition, the Pathfinder S LED Driving Lights can be added to complement the Pathfinder Adaptive LED Headlight. With the same superior LED illumination as the Pathfinder Adaptive LED Headlight, riders will benefit with even more nighttime visibility.

PowerBand Audio

New for 2021, riders can now upgrade the Indian Challenger’s audio experience with PowerBand Audio Quick Release Trunk Amplified Speaker Kit. When paired with PowerBand Audio Plus, this system delivers exceptional sound and clarity from high-output fairing and saddlebag speakers that are 50% louder than the Indian Challenger’s stock audio system.

Touring & Comfort Accessories

In 2021, Indian Challenger riders can pack for the long haul and enjoy new touring amenities. The Indian Challenger quick release trunk adds of 64 liters of additional storage. Similar to the Indian Roadmaster trunk, the Indian Challenger trunk is lockable via key fob and can fit two full- face helmets. When paired with the Slim Trunk Passenger Backrest Pad, passengers have up to 5 centimeters of additional room for comfort.

For both Indian Challenger and Thunderstroke models, a new low-profile quick release padded sissy bar with low-profile passenger pad, is available to those who want added passenger comfort without sacrificing the bike’s low-profile and sleek styling.

Additionally, Indian Challenger and Thunderstroke riders can add even more wind protection with taller accessory windshield options and added comfort with an extended reach seat, infinite highway pegs and a pinnacle heel shifter. For those riding two-up, a quick release passenger sissy bar, passenger backrest pad, and passenger floorboards add passenger comfort.

For Thunderstroke models, Indian Motorcycle offers a full package of comfort and passenger accommodations, including extended reach seat, mid-rise and 16-inch ape hanger handlebars, rider and passenger back rests, color matching Quick Release Trunk, passenger arm rests and more. Indian Challenger riders can upgrade with mid-rise handlebars, a tinted curved windshield, and front highway bars.

Performance Upgrades

Indian Motorcycle’s lineup of Thunderstroke performance accessories significantly modify the overall look, sound, and performance of each engine. The stage 1 slip-on exhaust, available in black or chrome, improves sound for both the Thunderstroke 111 and Thunderstroke 116. Indian Motorcycle’s stage 1 oval slip-on muffler kit and stage 1 performance air intake together increase horsepower by 4% with the Thunderstroke 111 and 8% with the Thunderstroke 116.

By adding the stage 2 performance cams, riders will gain 13% more horsepower when compared to a stock Thunderstroke 111.

The Thunderstroke 116 stage 2 performance kit, which includes cams, higher flowing fuel injectors and throttle body, produce a 17% horsepower boost when paired with both Stage 1 accessories.

Riders can also upgrade any Indian Motorcycle model packing the Thunderstroke 111 with its Thunderstroke 116 stage 3 big bore kit, which produces 20% more horsepower when compared to a stock Thunderstroke 111.

For Indian Challenger riders, the stage 1 slip-on muffler and PowerPlus stage 1 air intake improves sound and style.

Source: MCNews.com.au

News

2021 Indian Scout Australian model range and pricing

September 16, 2020 mcnews Leave a comment

This year’s 2021 Scout line-up receives a refresh with new paint colors with Stealth Gray on the Scout Bobber Twenty and Maroon Metallic Smoke on the Scout Bobber.

2021 Indian Scout – Maroon Metallic over Crimson Metallic

Indian first introduced the modern Scout in 2015 and thus 2021 will be the model’s seventh year in production.

2021 Indian Scout Models

Scout: Starting at $20,995, available in Thunder Black Smoke, Deepwater Metallic, White Smoke, and Maroon Metallic over Crimson Metallic.
Scout Bobber: Starting at $19,995, available in Thunder Black, Thunder Black Smoke, White Smoke, Alumina Jade Smoke, and Maroon Metallic Smoke.
Scout Bobber Twenty: Starting at $21,495, available in Thunder Black, Thunder Black Smoke, Stealth Gray, and Sagebrush Smoke.

Indian Scout Specifications

Specifications
Engine	1133 cc Liquid Cooled V-Twin (60 degrees)
Bore x Stroke	99 mm x 73.6 mm
Compression Ratio	10.7:1
Claimed Power	100 hp
Claimed Torque	97.7 Nm at 6000 rpm
Induction	Closed Loop Fuel Injection / 60 mm Bore
Gears	Six
Clutch	Wet
Frame	Steel
Forks	41 mm telescopic, 120 mm travel
Shock	Twin shock, 51 mm travel
Tyres	130/90-16 (F); 150/80-16(R)
Front Brakes	Single / 298 mm Rotor / 2 Piston Caliper
Rear Brake	Single / 298 mm Rotor / 1 Piston Caliper
Electronics	ABS
Instrumentation	Digital tachometer, odometer, trip meter, engine temp, low fuel lamp
Dry Weight	242 kg
Kerb Weight	251 kg
Seat Height	649 mm
Wheelbase	1576 mm
Rake / Trail	29.0° / 4.7 in (120 mm)
Fuel Capacity	12.5 Litres
Service Intervals	8000 kilometres
Warranty	Two-years, unlimited kilometres
Available	Approx Oct/Nov 2020
Price	From $19,995

Scout Accessories

All-new Scout touring parts, riders can turn their city cruiser into a capable long-haul touring machine. A Scout Bobber low or mid wind deflector protects riders from the elements, while heated grips for all 2017-2021 Scout models keep your hands warm in cold weather conditions.

In addition, a new fairing bag and semi-rigid saddlebags add stylish storage options. Finally, a color-matched quick release fairing with a two-inch windshield is available for all Scout models in new 2021 colorways.

Indian Motorcycle’s Scout performance upgrades can seriously change the overall attitude of any Scout. Exhaust and muffler options change the aesthetic, while increasing horsepower by over 10% when paired with the performance air intake. Options include the stage 1 2-in-1 full exhaust system and the stage 1 shorty slip-on muffler kit – both available in chrome and matte black.

Source: MCNews.com.au

News

2021 Suzuki RM-Z motocross machines unveiled

September 15, 2020 mcnews Leave a comment

For MY21, both the RM-Z250 and RM-Z450 feature WiFi tuning capability via the Suzuki MX-Tuner 2.0.

Standard with every new MY21 RM-Z purchased, the plug and play tuner allows customers to alter the engine mapping via the intuitive smartphone WiGET app, available on iOS and Android devices.

The WiGET app comes with several pre-installed factory-developed maps for easy tuning for different riding styles and track conditions.

In just a few minutes the power delivery can be altered for softer delivery settings for hard packed surfaces or dial-in maximum power for deep, loamy conditions and amazing drive out of the corners.

For the more experienced tuner, the possibilities are practically endless with the ability to create fully customised maps with specific settings for 36 points of ignition timing and 36 points of fuel injection delivery.

Suzuki MX Tuner 2.0 Key Features

Four pre-programmed performance maps are available including Aggressive, Smooth, Richer, and Leaner for different riding conditions.
Build custom fuel or ignition maps easily on the app by adjusting individual cells or the entire grid. Approve the map and it immediately uploads to the coupler currently plugged into the RM-Z.
Easily upload pre-programmed or custom performance maps into different Suzuki couplers (supplied with RM-Zs) for quick mapping changes at the track.
Keeping maintenance records is a breeze. Select the service tab to see the hour meter reading, or add a maintenance log to record when a particular component has been serviced, such as completing an oil change.
Use the monitor section of the app to view the RM-Z engine functions in real time including RPM, throttle and gear position, which tuning coupler is installed, system voltage and more.
Riders can share their best performance settings with fellow RM-Z riders directly through the MX-Tuner 2.0 app.

Suzuki RM-Zs also feature Suzuki’s Holeshot Assist Control (S-HAC) provides riders a choice of three settings which can be quickly selected via a handlebar-mounted switch. The “A” mode is programmed for hard surfaces, such as a concrete starting pad, clay or hard-packed dirt where controlling wheelspin is crucial to good starts. The “B” mode is for normal dirt conditions. Riders can also select the “Off” setting to retain standard ignition timing.

Power output is controlled via Suzuki’s sophisticated Traction Management system which works seamlessly with the rider to get the power to the ground. To maximise traction for conditions, the engine control module (ECM) automatically adjusts ignition timing and fuel injection based on throttle position, engine speed and gear position.

Suzuki RM-Zs are famous for their class-leading cornering and turning performance. The latest generation aluminium chassis design, combined with premium coil-spring front forks ensures this legacy continues, giving riders sharper handling, better feel and more control than ever before.

The MY21 RM-Z range also boasts a new graphics design, black anodized Dirtstar rims, powerful 270 mm wave front rotors and Renthal aluminium Fatbar handlebars as standard equipment.

The MY21 Suzuki RM-Z range will be available from Australian dealerships in December, for a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $10,790 ride away for the RM-Z250 and $11,690 ride away for the RM-Z450.

Source: MCNews.com.au

Motorcycle News, News

MotoGP Misano Test wrap, quotes and images

September 15, 2020 mcnews Leave a comment

Maverick Viñales (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) topped the Tuesday test at Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, putting in a 1:31.532 to end the day two and a half tenths clear of Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu). Johann Zarco (Esponsorama Racing) was third quickest despite still recovering from a broken scaphoid, the fastest Ducati at the test. There was plenty on show, and five factories in the top five!

Viñales was out on track focusing a lot on the medium tyre, which he didn’t use in the race on Sunday when he missed out on the podium from pole. He said he’s intending to use that more during the upcoming Emilia Romagna GP and work more on the graining issues with the medium – already improved – that affected him last weekend. In addition, a new exhaust was out on track from Yamaha along with a new carbon swingarm to try that they’ll probably use at the Emilia Romagna GP. A new rear brake system and chassis was also on show. Viñales said what he tried on Tuesday didn’t make a huge step forward, but allowed him to ride more relaxed – and that could help him to push more. His team-mate Valentino Rossi didn’t push for a fast lap and was 17th of 18 riders on the timesheets, but more can most definitely be expected from the number 46 on Sunday.

Rossi was also the man who debuted the new exhaust, the aim of which, according to Team Manager Massimo Meregalli, is drivability and top-end speed – important for the long straights in Barcelona and Aragon, although for the moment the riders have said there is no big improvement.

Massimo Meregalli – Monster Yamaha Team Director

“Overall, it was a productive day. We had a long list of components to try here, including the chassis, rear arm, muffler, finger rear brake, and some setting tweaks. Both riders did a lot of laps, which was necessary for us to be able to check all the items. We also used this test to try a tyre combination that we might consider for the next race – hard front, medium rear – that unfortunately we weren‘t able to try last weekend. The new chassis didn‘t bring to the table what we expected, and we decided to use the current chassis for the remainder of the season. We will use the next few days to study today‘s data. If we confirm the riders‘ feelings in the data, Maverick and Valentino will already start FP1 with some of the other new items that we tried today.”

Maverick Vinales

“I‘m still a bit disappointed about what happened on Sunday, because also today we were strong. Even after I crashed, I immediately did a fast lap afterwards, I was able to ride a 1‘31-medium. I rode that best lap time with the new parts, and it feels like it can maybe help me gain something for the race. Already last week the bike was really good, and it‘s difficult to improve it. With the new part I can ride the same lap times, but much more relaxed. This is a positive sign. It means that if I need to push, maybe I can ride a little bit faster. During this test we solved the problem with the graining that I had with the medium tyre, so for sure we will try to ride more with the medium tyre this weekend, but also the soft worked really well. I could do many laps and I finished the session with some 1‘32-low laps, which is really good for us. We just need to understand why I lose grip during the race and feel like I‘m riding on ice, because if that‘s fixed, I can ride very fast and hit really good lap times without being on the limit.”

Valentino Rossi

“We did a lot of hard work today, I did many laps, because we had a lot of different stuff to try. The test was not so bad. We worked on the bike. As always, out of all the things we tried, some were an improvement, others weren‘t. But overall it was a good test. We found something that was positive, so we will try to be stronger for the upcoming weekend.”

New exhaust almost resembles an old style megaphone

Fabio Quartararo (Petronas Yamaha SRT) tried the exhaust too and ended the day in ninth, 0.804 off the top as he focused on race pace. His team-mate and Misano race winner Franco Morbidelli sat the test out due to a stomach complaint.

Wilco Zeelenberg – Petronas Yamaha SRT Team Manager

“This was our last test of this season and it went quite smoothly. It is clear that our pace is quite good and we have improved in that area. We were missing two or three tenths in the time attack compared to others, but we were very strong in that area last year. We know overall it is more important to be better in the long runs than the time attack, so this was the area that we wanted to focus on. Franco had a stomach upset this morning, which is not ideal for a long day of testing. We discussed it together and decided not to start today. It is not something that worries us for the weekend, but with the next race starting Friday and another race next weekend, it was better for him not to ride today.”

Fabio Quartararo

“It’s been a positive test and it feels good to be back on the bike after a tough weekend. I’m really happy with the test because we worked on our pace and on 23 or 24 lap old tyres I was setting some of my fastest laps. We’ve tested many things today and my crew have a lot to look at with the data as well now. It’s all good things to take into the race weekend. In my first run I also tested riding with the standard headset. It’s a strange feeling but it was okay. I hope that we use it only for safety, not for communication with the team. I felt great all test though: we know what our weak points are, I think we will improve even more ahead of Friday and I think we will have a good race weekend.”

Franco Morbidelli

“It’s a pity to not have been a part of today’s test, because it would be really useful to test new settings for this weekend and the next races. This morning I didn’t feel well and, together with the team, we decided to rest and be fully ready for the start of this second race at home. We go into this race at Misano fully confident about our possibilities and willing to repeat a great result in front of the Italian fans. We are working really well together as a team and we have to continue in the same way. Last weekend was perfect; with the win and the first row on Saturday. I wish to fight for the same.”

Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu) was second on the timesheets, seemed happy with a step forward and got to ride the 2020 bike too. That got a positive review, with “no negatives” although he suffered a small crash on it that he put down to hitting a bump.

Takaaki Nakagami – P2

“This morning I had the opportunity to get a taster of the 2020 RC213V, the test bike used by Stefan Bradl. I didn’t do too many laps, it was just a first taste but it was quite good. We tried to understand the bike a bit, but unfortunately I had a crash at turn one because I got a big impact off the bumps and I lost the front. It was quite a simple crash, but then we went back to our bike to work on the set-up for this weekend. We tested many items, and definitely we have improved from last weekend. I can say that we are now at a really competitive level on all laps, and even a qualifying lap too. I got into the 1’31 bracket for the first time and ended the day P2 so I’m pretty happy about that. That should mean we are competitive this weekend. We still will have work to do, because whenever you test there is always a lot of grip on the track. Anyway, we are definitely heading in the right direction and we have a good base for Misano race two.”

Alex Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) was P11 overall and on test duty for a few things including a new Honda exhaust and aero. The Spaniard explained that he went faster than he did over the weekend on his second run of the day, and that he has managed to find a better feeling over one lap. Cal Crutchlow (LCR Honda Castrol) remained sidelined by injury, and Stefan Bradl (Repsol Honda Team) also sat out the test, not planned to be on track after having already tested at the venue ahead of the GP.

Alex Marquez

“It was a really good test today, I’m happy about it. From my second run of the day I was already faster than during the race weekend – this is always positive. We focused a lot on improving this year’s bike, but we tried some things for the future as well. We improved the setup, and this is really positive, some changes have helped me to be more consistent but also to be faster over one lap. There’s still a gap to close to the top, but I am feeling more positive and ready for the next weekend in Misano. The forecast and everything looks quite similar, so I am excited to see how we have grown since the first race.”

Zarco, in third, appeared pleasantly surprised by his feeling on the bike as he continues his recovery from scaphoid surgery just ahead of the Styrian GP. He was quick, as ever, and top Ducati after a solid fast lap. He suffered a small crash exiting pitlane but nothing too dramatic.

Johann Zarco – P3

“I am happy with today in general, I did not expect to do so many laps. In the afternoon, the plan was to do a few runs and stop, but since we had things to test and the feeling was really good that we decided to do it. Every time we went out on the track I felt good with the bike, I felt comfortable and this is very positive. Happy with the test, very happy with the fastest lap, it was impressive to get down from 1.32, and it is a good sign for the weekend.”

The man fresh from a maiden podium, Francesco Bagnaia (Pramac Racing), was seventh despite his ongoing recovery from a broken leg… and that was also the reason he elected to test only in the morning.

Pecco Bagnaia

“Very positive day, With the team we immediately found the right setup. My pace was very fast since de beginning, and I finished the session in top 3. I will not do the afternoon session because I want to rest my leg, but I can’t wait to get back on track on Friday.”

Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati Team) was the next man from the Borgo Panigal factory on the timesheets as he ended the day in eighth – and pretty glowing. He also only tested in the morning with “no reason” to continue in the afternoon once the work was done and some solutions found. He was working on the setup and the details, as ever, and praised a new part that had arrived and the increase in confidence he’d been able to achieve on Tuesday.

Andrea Dovizioso

“I am satisfied with this day of testing: this morning, we were able to complete our program, working on the details that interested us most. After a difficult weekend like the past one, it would not have made sense to continue testing even in the afternoon, since we will have another three days to be able to work. Compared to the last GP, I feel I can be much more competitive this weekend. Still, we have to keep our feet on the ground: our rivals have also been working to improve and getting a spot on the front rows will be even more important, but in general, I am confident and positive“.

Jack Miller (Pramac Racing) was a little more downbeat but continued work on the first sector and Turn 11, and tried the chassis updates from Ducati. He was P12 overall despite some technical trouble when he’d wanted to use the same time of the day as the race to work on another step forward.

Jack Miller

“Today we have tried different set up, we were able to understand certain mistakes, and we will also have Friday and Saturday to be on track. Unfortunately a technical problem did not allow me to be on track a lot this afternoon but I am still satisfied.”

Danilo Petrucci (Ducati Team) was in P16 and using Dovizioso as a spotter in the afternoon as he looks for some progress, with Tito Rabat (Esponsorama Racing) in P18 and suffering a technical issue during the test.

Danilo Petrucci

“It has been a very demanding day: we used all the track time available, trying different things to solve the problems that we had during the past race weekend. Unfortunately, we are still struggling, and I am not satisfied at the end of these two free practice sessions. I hope that in the next two days before the race we will be able to finally understand how to get much closer to the front in this GP“.

Tito Rabat

“It has been a day where I have been able to test a lot of things, despite having a problem from the beginning with the rear soft tyre. Both in the morning and in the afternoon the tyre broke very quickly, after five laps the tyre was completely destroyed. This has affected the work plan a bit, but in the end when we were going to set the soft tyre again we broke the engine, and we did not have a spare in this test, so we could not test more things. We now have two days off before a new weekend.”

At KTM, Pol Espargaro (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) was the lead man on the timesheets in P4, and explained how his main aim was to improve grip and stability, especially on the rear. The stability through the fast corners had been improved, as has the grip on entry. Espargaro didn’t push for a lap time and was working a lot on race pace.

Three of the four KTM riders were putting in the laps, with Iker Lecuona (Red Bull KTM Tech3) sitting out the action and leaving Espargaro, Lecuona’s team-mate Miguel Oliveira and fellow rookie Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) on track. Red Bull KTM Factory Team Principal Mike Leitner said that they were trying to improve the turning of the RC16, with the riders also appearing with a new white cover over some cables that come out from the tank cover, go around the steering head and back under the tank cover on the other side… Binder ended the day in P10 overall, and Oliveira P13. The Portuguese rider also had a small crash and said he didn’t have many new parts to try, working instead on a more immediate step forward for the Emilia Romagna GP.

Pol Espargaro

“It’s been a pretty good day. We had some question marks after Sunday and the weekend but we had a great test and improved our problems. The track was better without the rubber of the other classes – which helped – but we also tried many things on the bike that allowed us to be better. The rhythm was fine, it was nice, and the lap-time was not too bad on medium tires. Everything looks promising for the weekend.”

Brad Binder

“This afternoon I felt a bit better on the bike. We tried quite a few different things and I felt a couple will benefit me for the GP. All-in-all it was a positive day but I’m still very far from where I want to be with the fastest lap-time and my race rhythm, however it is a good step up from what we had in the race last weekend. I still want more if possible.”

Miguel Oliveira

“I’m excited to get going again this weekend at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli. Our motivation is to turn around the result and improve it. Especially securing a better Qualifying position than we had during the first round here, so this would help a lot to gain a better position during the race as well.”

Mike Leitner – Red Bull KTM Race Manager

“In general all three riders did a good job today because it was not easy to plan for this test. We had some future items for the bike but, of course, we had some things we wanted to fix to have a better second race weekend. It ended up positive because people worked on different targets and we made some interesting discoveries. We’ll now look ahead to our second race attempt here at Misano.”

Hervé Poncharal – Red Bull KTM Tech3 Team Manager

“We are experiencing our third back to back weekend on the same circuit this year and as usual it will be very interesting to see what we can improve on our bike. Clearly, the weather seems quite stable, so we don’t expect a huge difference there. But having so much time to work here should make this weekend even better. We were quite happy with the race pace of both, Miguel and Iker. Our weak point was just the single fast lap for Qualifying in order to get a better grid position as I said a few times this season. We can see that the twisty section straight after the start is making it difficult to overtake, so we need to qualify better. I believe the race setup will not be very different to what we used the last weekend. We also had the luck to test a few things today with Miguel, which was nothing dramatic, but hopefully helping us to close the gap we need to shrink. Clearly, this is going to be more about understanding the bike better and trying to fine tune it. We were not too far from the top anyway, everybody was very close together. We ended up 12 seconds behind the top last Sunday, of which we lost six only in the opening laps. This is showing, where we need to work on. Iker didn’t test today, as he has not enough experience to compare small evolutions. Therefore, he opted for working with his team on the race data and rest in order to be fully recharged for Friday morning. We are very happy with the way he works and I think, he can do a significant step the coming weekend as well.”

Over in the Team Suzuki Ecstar garage, Team Manager Davide Brivio said Joan Mir and Alex Rins tried a different swingarm, although the initial feedback was that it didn’t make much of a difference, so Suzuki won’t be using it – according to Brivio himself. Rins, fifth overall, said he had a positive day though as he tried the swingarm and some electronic settings, and that he was riding comfortably free from pain despite some complaints in the latter laps of the San Marino GP as he continues to fight back to full fitness. Mir said he was happy with his day’s work overall too, which included some setting changes… and not pushing for a lap time. The Spaniard said he and Suzuki tried to improve their qualifying pace, but ended up improving their race pace even more if that’s a good warning shot for many. He was only just off his teammate, in P6 by the end of play.

Davide Brivio – Team Suzuki

“It’s been a positive day and a good test where we went through several different things. We tested a new swing arm which Joan had already tried last weekend, but today we had the chance to look at it in more depth. Alex tried it for the first time today. At the moment we’re not fully convinced that it’s an improvement, so we’re not planning to introduce it at the moment. Then we worked on electronics and settings, trying different ways to set up the bike, despite the fact that both riders are happy with the performance of the GSX-RR right now. We also tried tyre options. Overall, we’re feeling prepared for the race this weekend.”

Alex Rins

“The problem I had in my arm on Sunday during the race was really quite bad, so yesterday I worked with my physiotherapist and today I tried some small adjustments with the bike in terms of riding position to try and prevent pain this weekend. It looks like it has helped a bit, so let’s see. Today has been very positive and I feel good, we worked well on the electronics and settings. Everyone was fast today but I had strong lap times, so I hope to bring that forward into this weekend.”

Joan Mir

“It’s been a good test today, we worked on many areas of the bike, but nothing really big, and we also had some new things to try, such as the swing arm. We managed to improve my feeling with the bike a bit after working on settings. I didn’t push for a fast lap today, I was just concentrating on testing. I’m happy with the work done; now let’s see if what we found today will make the difference when it comes to the next race this Sunday.”

Aprilia Racing Team Gresini’s Aleix Espargaro and Bradley Smith were testing the holeshot system on the rear, with the intention of trying to use it during the race – just like Ducati – in the near future. Chassis and electronics were also a focus for the Noale factory, with Espargaro trying a setting that gives him more torque, the aim being to give him more pace over a qualifying lap. Smith was happy to set a mid-1:32 and confirmed he was testing a new chassis too, with the Brit putting in a mammoth 96 laps over the course of the two sessions. He was P14 just 0.055 behind Espargaro, who was in turn only 0.006 off Oliveira.

Misano MotoGP Test Times

VINALES Maverick Monster Yamaha 1’31.532
NAKAGAMI Takaaki LCR Honda 0.271
ZARCO Johann Esponsorama Racing 0.367
ESPARGARO Pol Red Bull KTM Factory 0.522
RINS Alex Team Suzuki Ecstar 0.582
MIR Joan Team Suzuki Ecstar 0.630
BAGNAIA Francesco Pramac Racing 0.675
DOVIZIOSO Andrea Ducati Team 0.758
QUARTARARO Fabio Petronas Yamaha 0.804
BINDER Brad Red Bull KTM Factory 0.921
MARQUEZ Alex Repsol Honda Team 0.948
MILLER Jack Pramac Racing 0.978
OLIVEIRA Miguel Red Bull KTM Tech 3 0.997
ESPARGARO Aleix Aprilia Racing Gresini 1.003
SMITH Bradley Aprilia Racing Gresini 1.058
PETRUCCI Danilo Ducati Team 1.147
ROSSI Valentino Monster Yamaha 1.414
RABAT Tito Esponsorama Racing 1.774

Source: MCNews.com.au

News

MV Agusta Superveloce 800 Review

September 15, 2020 mcnews Leave a comment

Motorcycle Test by Adam Child ‘Chad’ – Photography Tim Keeton

When MV Agusta first unveiled the Superveloce in 2018, my jaw hit the floor. Now, on a perfect summer day in the UK, on the actual production bike, which isn’t too far removed from the beautiful prototype, I’m in love again. She is stunning.

A simple question, is there a more desirable, sexier, production bike on the market?

It’s unique, a throwback to the ’70s when MV dominated racing, it’s individual and daring. It’s built and manufactured in Italy, produced by an iconic brand, with an eye for detail.

Check out the single LED headlight and taillight, the protruding three exhausts give you an indication of it’s the engine, the ‘dummy’ leather strap over the fuel tanks, is lavish, over the top, doesn’t’ have a purpose, but I still like it.

MV has hidden all the fairing fasteners and unsightly bolts, it gives the appearance the sculpted 70’s bodywork is floating – it’s the attention to detail and lavish styling I love.

On looks alone, it must be one of the highlights of this year, arguably the last five-years. It’s based on the highly acclaimed, track-focused, if slightly dated F3, so it should perform. But, does it go as well as it looks? A week in the UK and nearly 1500 kilometres miles should give us some answers.

Peak power and torque is identical to the MV F3 which was launched back in 2013, yes that long ago. Peak power is 148 ponies at 13,000 rpm while the 88 Nm of torque peaks at 10,600rpm. The torque and power curves are identical between the two models, however the Superveloce has altered fuelling to compensate for the change in the air-box intake runners, which differ slightly from the F3.

In today’s world where super-naked and superbikes are producing eyewatering power, the new MV may not have the power figure to impress mate down the pub, but in the real word, on the road, the power is impressive and usable. You don’t have to dance around on the gear selector in search of power, the three cylinder, complete with counter-roting crank, has usable power lower down in the rev range, then really starts to take off and run from the mid-range onwards. There are also four rider modes, Sport, Race, Rain and a Custom mode which changes the engine characteristics and throttle response.

The three protruding exhausts down onside sound as good as they look. MV always produces a lovely sounding bike and the Superveloce continues that tradition. In-line triple engines sound great, and despite passing Euro-4 legislation the MV sounds tops via the 3-1-2 exhaust, more so as you send the digital rev-counter towards its redline. At tick-over its mildly humming, but still sounds unique. As the revs build so does its lungs, the MV is one of those bikes you just love to rev, just to hear the three exhausts holler.

On the road, you’d don’t really need to drop back a few gears for an overtake and you don’t have to leave every 50 km/h zone in second gear, there is more than enough usable torque, but because it sounds so good you can help to flick back a few gears, to allow the engine scream. The gear changes are effortless, due to a super smooth gearbox with an up and down quick-shifter. The auto-blipper matches the revs every time on rapid down changes, and the cut in power on up changes is race bike like, smooth and fast – love it. Even at low speeds, around 50-60 km/h the clutchless changes felt smooth on fuss-free. On occasions, I did accidentally manage to find neutral between 1st and 2nd, but only a few times on an 1200-km test.

The upper half of the rev range this is where the MV is the happiest though, in its element. Make no mistake the Superveloce is a quick bike, it might look like a 70’s throwback, but underneath there is still a F3 engine which wants to run. In the first gear and occasionally in second gear the eight-stage traction control must work overtime to keep the front wheel in contact with the ground. The counter-rotating crank, combined with a rider pushed forward over the top yoke, means it’s not a wheelie happy bike, you’re not fighting the front to keep it on the road, instead it just accelerates forward. However, if you do want to impress your mates it’s more than happy to loft the front, once you’ve deactivated the TC, which is easy to do and can be done on the move, thanks to the easy-to-use full colour TFT clocks. The Superveloce may look like a work of art, but don’t be mistaken it’s still a 240 km/h sportsbike underneath that retro clothing. It’s like Usain Bolt in a 70’s tracksuit.

Back in the real work, away from wheelies and top speed, MV has always been criticised for poor fuelling at low speeds. In Race mode, as you’d expect it’s a little harsh, but in Sport and even more so in Rain mode is much softer and easy-to-use. I, unfortunately, had to ride through a biblical rainstorm, lots of standing water and was thankful for the soft Rain mode.

The manual suspension set-up, fully-adjustable Marzocchi up front, and fully-adjustable single Sachs unit at the rear is identical to the F3. But for this year MV has added a new progressive linkage on the rear and revised the fork’s settings. The overall set-up, as you’d expect, is on the sporty side, but it’s not overly harsh, this isn’t a race bike for the road. But equally this isn’t a softly sprung sports bike, like a Triumph Dayton Moto2 for example, it’s friendly but only up to a point.

Like the engine the faster you ride, the happier the suspension and handling is, it copes with braking, acceleration, and cornering loads with ease. You could roll out onto a track day with little complaints, the set-up is track-ready with standard tyres. The Superveloce feels at home on the fast, smooth, and flowing sections; at times I had to remind myself I wasn’t in race leathers and had to pull my knee in to avoid contact with the road.

On bumpier, uneven sections the MV doesn’t feel as accomplished as it did on the fast-smooth sections. It’s stable, it’s not overly harsh like MV’s new Brutale 1000RR, and again the faster you go, the more you load the suspension the happier it feels. But on the odd occasion, the rear did jolt my spine. If I lived somewhere remote, used more B-roads than A I’d certainly think about opening up the suspension, make it plusher, more road-focused than track.

Around town at slow speed, whilst constantly admiring your reflection you will grimace from time to time. Pot-holes and speed humps aren’t your friends. The riding position is on the radical side, the seat isn’t soft enough – don’t forget that black visor to hide your discomfort. But aside from posing why are you in town? Get away from the big smoke, allow the MV to breathe, enjoy the sporty handling, and decide if it’s kneed down or knee up.

Like the suspension the Brembo radial stoppers are stolen from the F3, the same high quality set-up. Without an IMU, which measures lean angle, adjustable ABS braking is conventional and not lean-sensitive. I never had a problem with conventional ABS but some riders/owners may have expected cornering ABS on a premium new 2020 model.

I rode the Superveloce in all conditions and was happy with the brake set-up. In the wet, the Pirelli Rosso Corsa 2 tyres are much better than they appear, and the ABS isn’t too intrusive. In the dry the brake lever has a nice progressive feel to it, the Marzocchi forks drive smoothly in the stroke, not too rapidly and rebound is controlled. Braking is impressive as you’d expect from a bike based on the F3.

As mentioned earlier, the new Superveloce doesn’t have an IMU therefore the eight-stage traction controls isn’t lean-sensitive. However, traction control intervention and reintervention are smooth and effortless. Furthermore, it is a doddle to change on the move, I was up to eight the maximum setting in the wet, and deactivated the TC for the photoshoot.

The all-new full-colour five-inch TFT clocks are easy to navigate, are clear, with simple graphics. It’s easy to change the TC on the move, or even de-activate it without stopping. I don’t have to scroll through various screens and sub-menus, it’s simple and intuitive. I love the new clocks, and unlike the MV 1000 Brutale 1000RR, the are in the correct position, behind the retro screen not near the fuel cap. The new clocks allow Bluetooth connectivity and communication with the MV Ride App. Again, the app is simple and easy to use, you can track your ride, even change the settings like ABS and TC all from your phone.

It may appear to be a 70’S throwback, but the new clocks give you the very latest technology. The only downside is they are hard to read when the sun is low and behind the rider. The rider modes are easy to change, again it’s simple this time done via the start button, but again in low light, it’s hard to read as sometimes Rain mode looks like Race mode, maybe they should have called it wet and track mode.

Cruise control comes as standard, and as mentioned so does the up-and-down super smooth quick-shifter. Cruise control hints towards, dare I say practicality, if you can say that about a retro MV with bar-end mirrors, which aren’t that bad, but surprisingly good in fact.

As you’d expect there are some lovely accessories to play with, carbon trinkets, the CNC almuminium spoked wheels are mouth-watering, and there’s an aftermarket Arrow race exhaust. The open exhaust for tack use only pushes power to 112kw and looks stunning with two pipes exiting on the right and one on the left. I’m told, it sounds amazing, which I’m sure it does.

Verdict

In many ways we can simplify the new MV Superveloce, it’s essentially a highly acclaimed F3 with new clocks, stunning styling, and revised suspension for 2020.

Take one of the best-handling bikes in your range, if not in the middle-weight category, leave the stunning in-line triple alone, don’t fix what isn’t broke, make it sound great, and cover it in unique, inspiring bodywork and styling. MV couldn’t go wrong really. I think it’s jaw-droppingly beautiful, and underneath is a motor and handing to match.

This is a true retro racer which in the right hands could indeed embarrass dedicated sports bikes on the track. It’s not the most comfortable, especially in town, the screen is too low on the motorway, and pillions will have to be brave or stupid. However, if you can live with the discomfort and the price, and yes MV dealers are sparse, then you’ll fall in love every time.

As you’d expect from MV, and like anything attractive from Italy, at $32,990 the new Superveloce is not exactly cheap. The fact that MV Agusta Australia do include a three-year warranty, two-years road-side assist, and service intervals are a lengthy 15,000 kilometres does helpen to soften the blow. The first Australian stocks arrive later this month (September). There is also a new colour option recently announced (Link).

MV Agusta Superveloce 800 Specifications
Engine	798 cc triple-cylinder four-stroke, 12-valve
Bore x Stroke	79 x 54.3 mm
Compression Ratio	13.3:1
Claimed Power	108 kW (148 hp) at 13,000 rpm
Claimed Torque	88 Nm at 10,600 rpm
Induction	Integrated ignition – injection system MVICS (Motor & Vehicle Integrated Control System) with six injectors Engine control unit Eldor EM2.0, throttle body full ride by wire Mikuni,
Gears	Six-speed, MV EAS 2.1 (Electronically Assisted Shift Up & Down)
Clutch	Wet, slipper
Frame	ALS Steel tubular trellis
Forks	43 mm Marzocchi “UPSIDE DOWN” telescopic hydraulic fork with rebound-compression damping and spring preload external and separate adjustment – 125 mm travel
Shock	Progressive Sachs, single shock absorber with rebound and compression damping and spring preload adjustment – 123 mm travel
Tyres	120/70-17 (F) 180/55-17 (R)
Front Brakes	Double floating disc with Ø 320 mm (Ø 12.6 in.) diameter, with steel braking disc and flange – Brembo radial-type monobloc, with 4 pistons Ø 34 mm (Ø 1.34 in.)
Rear Brake	Single steel disc with Ø 220 mm (Ø 8.66 in.) dia. Brembo with 2 pistons – Ø 34 mm (Ø 1.34 in.)
Electronics	Torque control with four maps, Traction Control with eight levels of intervention. Bosch 9 Plus ABS with Race Mode and RLM (Rear wheel Lift-up Mitigation). Cruise control – Bluetooth – GPS – App MVride for navigation mirroring, app-controlled engine, rider aids setup
Instrumentation	TFT 5”color display
Dry Weight	173 kg
Kerb Weight	NA
Seat Height	830 mm
Wheelbase	1380 mm
Rake / Trail	NA / 99 mm
Fuel Capacity	16.5 litres
Service Intervals	15,000 km / 12 months
Warranty	Three years, unlimited kilometres, two-years roadside assist
Available	September 2020
Price	$32,990 ride-away

Source: MCNews.com.au

News

Royal Enfield debut in American Flat Track shows promise

September 15, 2020 mcnews Leave a comment

Last weekend the highly anticipated Royal Enfield Twins FT, AFT Production Twins racer was unveiled to the flat track world. After months of development and testing, American Flat Track (AFT) professional flat track racer Johnny Lewis made history as Royal Enfield competed in its first ever AFT event.

The Royal Enfield Twins FT is a joint effort between Royal Enfield and MotoAnatomy, Lewis’ proprietary race team and flat track academy. Over the course of the last six months, Lewis and team have worked closely with Royal Enfield, renowned road racing chassis builder Harris Performance and engine tuning specialists S&S Cycle.

Royal Enfield American Flat Track Production Twin

Lewis’ participation in the Williams Grove Half-Mile marked a major milestone in Royal Enfield’s 119-year history. In this first year, Lewis is looking to be competitive, but the overall focus remains on the development of the Twins FT platform. This will allow the team the time to make necessary changes and adjustments throughout the remainder of the season.

“We had quite the journey to get to this point,” said Lewis. “We’ve been working consistently over the past six months to develop a competitive package for Royal Enfield. The latest iteration of the race bike was shipped over from India in pieces on Monday and we’ve been working around the clock to put it together. I’ve really enjoyed the development process of the motorcycle and Royal Enfield along with the other partners involved have worked hard to make this happen. The bike performed well and we’ve got a great foundation to build upon.”

The team faced an uncertain future when the AFT season was postponed in March due to COVID-19. Not fully knowing how the year would unfold, Lewis went to work developing a prototype motorcycle early in the year. With ongoing communication, Lewis and the teams at Harris Performance, Royal Enfield and S&S Cycle continued working through chassis changes and updates as Lewis tested the prototype at his Center Hill, Fla. facility. Despite the challenges of shipping parts overseas and multiple time zones, Lewis and team persevered.

“This has been a team effort across the board,” said Breeann Poland, Marketing Lead for Royal Enfield Americas. “Seeing the Royal Enfield Twins FT in a race setting was an impressive accomplishment for everyone that worked nights and weekends, and ultimately lost sleep over the project. We couldn’t have asked for better partners like Johnny, the Royal Enfield team in India and the U.K., Harris Performance and S&S Cycle to make this happen. There’s still plenty to be done from a development standpoint and we are realistic with our expectations, but this is a step in the right direction.”

The motorcycle that Lewis rode at Williams Grove Speedway only arrived in the U.S. three days before the race, in pieces, and had to be assembled in the following two days. Timing was so tight that there was no time for a track test – the official practice session on Friday was the first time Lewis rode his Twins FT. Lewis went on to raise some eyebrows, taking a third place semi-final finish and an incredible sixth place finish in the main event, an amazing first outing for the team.

On Saturday, the team tested new chassis setups resulting in better handling than the previous day. Johnny was running in third place during the Semi when a weakened head gasket failed and he was forced to pull off the track. The problem was identified, and with an hour and a half to go before the Main, the MotoAnatomy x Royal Enfield team, including engineers in the U.K. assisting virtually, tore the motor down, replaced the gasket and rolled the bike back onto the track in the 13th spot, minutes before the green flag. Lewis went on to carve his way through the field, claiming an impressive seventh place to finish off the weekend.

The team will continue testing and development during the next two weeks leading up to the Dallas Half-Mile events with support from Royal Enfield staff in both the U.S. and U.K. This will provide Lewis and team the opportunity to continue making improvements to engine durability and chassis set-up.

Full results from last weekend’s AFT races can be found in this week’s Moto Wrap (Link)

Joining Lewis at the later Atlanta Short Track round and AFT Finale in Daytona Beach, will be the participants of Royal Enfield’s BUILD TRAIN RACE (BTR) program, who will compete in an entertainment exhibition race aboard custom-built INT 650 motorcycles. Lewis and team will race the remainder of the AFT calendar to gather more data and feedback on the Royal Enfield Twins FT package as they look ahead to the 2021 AFT season.

Images by Hunter and Lassen

Source: MCNews.com.au

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