Tag Archives: Motorbikes

Motorcycle News, News

Light flashes, horn blows in a crash

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Yamaha is the latest to develop an automatic emergency call system in the event of a crash, but their system also flashes the lights and bows the horn.

SOS buttons or eCall systems have been available in cars for some time and have now been mandated throughout Europe.

It is expected they may also be mandated on motorcycles in the future.

BMW was the first to introduce and SOS button either as as an ex-factory or aftermarket option on their K1600 models in 2018.

BMW SOS button motorrad win mandatedBMW SOS or ecall button

Australian riders are still waiting for the possibly life-saving motorcycle SOS function as Telstra does not yet have the right hardware.

The system may arrive sooner in the Indian-made Quin smart helmet which detects a crash and call the emergency services and/or a nominate contact such as your partner.

Quin helmets integrated Bluetooth communicationsQuin helmet

Yamaha flashes and blows

Meanwhile, Yamaha has filed a patent for their system which not only sends an alert to a nominated third party, but also flashes the headlight and blows the horn to alert passersby.

The horn and lights would also prevent the traffic from running into your crashed bike.

It includes sensors which can detect when the bike has been involved in a crash.

Like the BMW and Quin systems, there is a manual override in case you’ve dropped the bike off its stand, dropped your helmet or had a small, no-injury crash.

The BMW and Quin systems also provide GPS co-ordinates of the rider’s position. There is no mention of that in the Yamaha patent.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

Honda Goldwing forks extended

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Honda has filed a patent that indicates it may be planning to extend its Goldwing double-wishbone forks to other bikes in its range.

Two patent drawings show the suspension being used on a neo retro CB1100 and a C125 Super Cub scooter.

Patent drawing for forks ion a CB1100 Patent drawing for forks ion a CB1100

So anything in between could be suitable for the suspension.

To us, it looks similar to BMW’s duolever suspension which is expensive, heavy and lacks feel. However, the advantages are a lack of dive under brakes and the ability to soak up big hits.

Honda’s Goldwing suspension uses a similar system invented by Scot Norman Hossack.

The suspension system is similar to those on some sportscars, but instead of a hub-carrier and wheel attached to the end of the wishbones, it has a solid front fork attaches to the front wheel.Forks CB1100

While it may provide great traction, comfy ride and precise steering, it doesn’t really suit the retro styling of the CB1100 and we think the weight may defeat the advantages on a Super Cub.

But it could have advantages on some other bikes in their range.

Forks patents

Aprilia anti-dive forksAprilia anti-dive forks

It follows recent patent by Aprilia for anti-dive forks and is one of many patents Honda has lodged in the past 18 months, including one for suspension that works via artificial intelligence to predict and adjust damping.

While some of the other Honda patents are fairly wild ideas, this seems much more sensible and could come to market in the future.

This new patent joins the following recent Honda applications:

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

Vyrus even scarier than coronavirus

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If you think coronavirus is scary, how about the Italian Vyrus Alyen 988 with its origami bikini fairing and tailpiece with a host of winglets?

It’s a rather unfortunate name for an Italian bespoke motorcycle company given the horrendous impact of the coronavirus on that country.

But Vyrus has been around for a while and even Hollywood actor Tom Cruise, who began riding at the age of 10, owns a Vyrus 987 C3 4V worth more than $100,000.

Tom Cruise in Mission: Impossible 5 - on his Vyrus 987Tom on his Vyrus 987

Their latest bike is the Aylen 988 which features a hoist of winglets in styling that looks more like origami than motorcycles.VYRUS ALYEN 03

Winglets have been used in the past couple of seasons of MotoGP and are now starting to make their way on to production bikes such as the Aprilia RSV-4, Ducati Superleggera V4 and the Honda CBR1000RR-R.

Ugly Ducati MotoGP bike directDucati MotoGP winglets

The Alyen 988 is powered by a Ducati Panigale 1299 L-twin which is actually 1285cc and has output of 207hp at 11000rpm and 142Nm of torque at 9000rpm.

In this bike, power is down slightly to 2305hp, and there is no indication of the torque output.

Nor do they mention price.

In fact, their website only features some images, tech specs (below) and the word “Request” which takes you to a form to fill in to request a quote.

If you have to ask, you can’t afford it.VYRUS ALYEN 03

It is likely to cost around $100,000 given the lashings of carbon fibre on the body, tank and exhausts, plus the rather complex hub-centre steering.

That is understandable as Vyrus worked with Bimota on their Tesi model which features similar steering.

While motorcycling is experiencing a global downturn in sales that will be exacerbated by the current pandemic, it seems there is always space for esoteric bikes for the rich and famous.

Vyrus Alyen 988 tech specs

VYRUS ALYEN 03Origami tail

Engine type Ducati L-twin shaped 90° Desmo drive
Bore 116mm
Stroke 70.8mm
Displacement 1285cc
Compression ratio 11,3:1
Lubrication system forced by gear pump
Cooling system Water-cooled
Power 205hp @ 10.500 rpm
Gearbox 6 speed
Clutch wet clutch
Fuel injection Electronic Injection
Front suspension Push Rod Twin Pivot Vyrus
Rear suspension Push Rod Twin Pivot Vyrus
Frame Vyrus Magnesium double omega design combined with a self-supporting composite Body
Steering System Vyrus Hydraulic Wired Steering System
Caster angle 17° to 25°
Trail 84 mm to 112 mm
Front tire 120/70 ZR 17
Rear tire 200/60 ZR17
Fuel tank capacity 11 lt
Wheelbase 1575 mm

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

MotoGP, Motorcycle News, News

Aprilia patents anti-dive forks

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Aprilia has applied for a patent for a system that prevents the front forks diving under heavy braking and losing the ability to absorb bumps.

The drawings show it being used on Aprilia’s RS-GP MotoGP bike.

However, preventing brake dive is more important on normal roads where there are more bumps that can unsettle a motorcycle.

Inventive forks

There have been many inventions that promise anti-dive over the years.

In 2015, Brisbane company Motoinno invented the Triangulated Steering and Suspension System which allows the rider to totally dial out brake dive, or even dial in front lift under braking.

Motoinno TS3 with centre steeringMotoinno TS3 with centre steering

Similarly, the Aprilia system allows the selection of how much the forks dive.

However, their patent features standard cartridge upside-down forks, but with the brake callipers attached by a linkage.

So when you hit the brakes, the callipers rotate and a spring pushes them back when you let the brakes go.

Engineers can probably work out how it functions from the drawings.Aprilia anti-dive forks

For the rest of us, we can see a system that is fairly simple and therefore not adding too much in weight and expense.

The advantages for riders would be the ability to brake later into a corner on a track day and, on bumpy roads, it would be a handy safety feature.

We believe the feature was destined to be been tested in this season’s MotoGP, but that is now on hold indefinitely during the pandemic.

That might mean a further delay in when this safety feature appears on street bikes.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

BMW launches classic R 18 cruiser

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

BMW Classic R 18 cruiserBMW R 18 and R 5

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

BMW to unveil R 18Spy photos and concepts

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

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

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

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

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

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

BMW R 18 classic

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

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

Classic R 18  Tech specsBMW Classic R 18 cruiser

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

BMW Classic R 18 cruiserApe hanger bars and matte black accessories

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

R 18 classic photo gallery

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

KTM 890 R sharpens Super Scalpel

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

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

Super Scalpel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

KTM 890 R tech specs

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

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

Coronavirus hits major motorcycle shows

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

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

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

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

Berlin BMW Motorrad factoryBMW Motorrad factory in Spandau, Berlin

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

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

Here is the official statement:

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

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

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

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

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

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

BMW to unveil R 18

Virtual shows

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

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

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

More variants for Harley-Davidson Streetfighter

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

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

Harley-Davidson Revolution Max platform Bronx StreetfighterBronx Streetfighter

More variants

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Harley sportsbike(Image: Young Machine)

Harley Sportsbike?

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

VR1000

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

Royal Enfield Himalayan new colours

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

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

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

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

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

For the first time, you can also order online.

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

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

Suzuki Katana Red in virtual launch

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

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

2019 Suzuki Katana depositsSuzuki Katana

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

Virtual launch

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

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

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

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

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

Suzuki twin

Suzuki Katana Red in virtual launchPatent drawing

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

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

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

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com