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Petronas Yamaha SRT signs Morbidelli for a further two years

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News 14 Jul 2020

Petronas Yamaha SRT signs Morbidelli for a further two years

Section: Competition

Renewed contract confirmed for Italian aboard satellite YZR-M1.

Image: Russell Colvin.

Italian Franco Morbidelli will remain at Petronas Yamaha SRT for the next two MotoGP World Championship seasons after signing a contract extension through 2022.

Morbidelli first joined the Malaysian team in 2019 for its first year in MotoGP with the support of Yamaha, now set to continue that partnership for a further couple of years.

“I’m very pleased to be renewing with Petronas Yamaha Sepang Racing Team as we had such a great season together last year, working with a great drive to achieve success,” Morbidelli said. “I think it’s important for me to continue with the same team, bike and environment going forward as it feels great to work with them.

“We all work well together and it’s great fun to work with all the Petronas SRT crew. I want to thank them for this opportunity that they are giving me as it’s such an honour to ride for them. I will be working hard to give them even more and even better results than we achieved in our first year together.”

Last year saw Morbidelli earn four front row starts and claim seven top-six finishes aboard the YZR-M1. In addition, he was also vital in helping to secure the 2019 Top Independent Team honours for Petronas Yamaha SRT, finishing 10th in the riders championship.

Petronas Yamaha SRT owner Razlan Razali added: “We are delighted to confirm that Franky will continue with us next year. He is an extremely talented rider and a great asset to the team as we look to build on our rookie season. Franky was always in our plans for the future, so it is beneficial for us and him to be able to confirm that he will ride for us in 2021 and 2022 now.

“Franky has the potential to reach the top step of the podium and this is what we’ll all be working hard to achieve. We are confident that Franky has what it takes to be competitive from Jerez and know that he will develop and mature in all areas through the years ahead. Franky will provide the team with stability and competitiveness and we can’t wait to be back on track!”

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

Motorcycle News, News

COVID covers protect motorcycle riders

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As Victoria considers stage 4 lockdowns, perhaps they should implement these COVID-19 covers that protect riders from their contagious pillions!

Two types of covers have been officially approved for use on motorcycle taxis in the Phillipines.

However, the government has not approved makeshift covers for other riders as they say they could be dangerous.

But that hasn’t stopped some riders who have invented their own protectors.

Joan Melani Mateo shared this photo on Facebook of the steel and plastic shield made by her husband Noel Alapar.covid covers

The Philippines and some other Asian countries, have limited pillions to married couples and partners only and they have advised them to wear face masks, gloves and helmets.

To prove their re­la­tion­ship, hus­bands and wives are re­quired to present their mar­riage con­tract to authorities while com­mon-law cou­ples and live-in part­ners must have IDs showing they are liv­ing at the same address.

Meanwhile, one Uganda taxi driver who disobeyed the coronavirus curfew has committed suicide in a police station after his bike was impounded.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

Progressive Suspension Launches Suspension System for Yamaha XSR700 and MT-07/FZ-07

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Progressive Suspension brings suspension upgrade options for Yamaha’s 700cc parallel Twins.

Begin Press Release: 

Progressive Suspension Launches Full Suspension System for Yamaha XSR700 and MT-07/FZ-07 Riders

progressive suspension

La Palma CA – July 13, 2020 – Progressive Suspension, the nation’s premier manufacturer of motorcycle and UTV suspension products, announced the launch of a full suspension system designed for the popular XSR700, Yamaha MT-07 and its predecessor, the Yamaha FZ-07. The system consists of two products, a replacement front fork cartridge kit and a monoshock for the rear, both designed by Progressive Suspension specifically for these motorcycles. While each product is available separately, the magic happens when both front and rear suspension receive the upgrade.

The suspension system is designed to improve the quality of the XSR/MT/FZ ride, as well as offering greater front-end stability, improved cornering, front brake dive and bottoming control. The setup eliminates bottoming and shaking in sweeping corners, giving the rider a smoother, more nimble riding experience.

“We chose to launch this system for the MT-07, a great bike that needed better-than-stock suspension to really show its stuff,” said Sean Delshadi, brand manager for Progressive Suspension. “Customers who upgrade their FZ-07, MT-07 or XSR700 with our system will have a more stable ride and less front-end dive when braking. We think our system unlocks the real performance potential of the bike, making it a whole new animal for the rider to enjoy.”

progressive suspension

The front suspension package features Progressive Suspension’s state of the art Monotube Fork Cartridge Kit which replaces the open bath internals of the stock fork. It converts dual damper rod suspension to high performance gas charged monotube dampers and custom tuned fork springs. Monotube-style damping improves ride comfort, resistance to front brake dive as well as improving front end stability, cornering and bottoming control. The kit fits 2015 through current Yamaha FZ-07, MT-07 and XSR700 forks and replaces all of the internal parts. No modifications to the motorcycle are required, and the installation is simple. Suggested retail price is $339.95.

The 465 Series Rear setup represents state of the art in high pressure, gas monotube shock design. Utilizing a 46mm bore and deflective disc piston for precise damping, the beefy, 16mm, hard-chrome shaft rides on custom Viton seals for low friction and leak free life. Threaded body and a five-position rebound adjuster allows for fine tuning to match the owner’s riding style and load. Available with options including a standard rate or heavy-duty spring, and stock length. The 465 is custom tuned for each application, from the damping and spring rate all the way down to the jounce bumper. This product fits the 2015 and later Yamaha FZ-07, MT-07, XRS700 and the product line will soon expand to include other monoshock bikes. Suggested retail price is $649.95

More information is available on the Progressive Suspension website or at a Progressive Suspension dealer.

The post Progressive Suspension Launches Suspension System for Yamaha XSR700 and MT-07/FZ-07 appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

Motorcycle News, News

Chef cooks up custom motorcycles

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Brisbane-based French chef Michel Bonet has spent a lifetime cooking as well as cooking up some interesting custom motorcycles including an early supermoto.

The 76-year-old was born in Burgundy and came to Australia in 1968 and spends six months here and six months in his country of birth — that is, until the pandemic!

In this article, Michel tells his story about some of his custom bikes:

Chef customs

Chef Michel Bonet
Chef Michel Bonet

Being a chef and restaurateur can be sometimes be very stressful and irritating. So for someone that loves motorcycles, there is no better way to unwind than to customise your motorcycles. Unfortunately, starting an apprenticeship as a chef in the late ’50s didn’t give much time to learn anything else. Whatever I had to do on my bikes, someone else had to do it for me.

In the ’80s I had a couple of BMW K 100s and it was in a time where motorcycles had no fairing or a basic fairing.

But I thought I could do better than this – someone had to show them how it’s done!

So with the help of Peter Walker from All Bikes (formerly knowns as Universal Cycle) I dressed up the K 100 exactly the way I’d pictured it in my head.

Chef Michel Bonet
Michel’s Silver Dream before his dream went up in smoke!

The Silver Dream was my first attempt as an engineer. But of course this bike wasn’t designed for a full fairing, so it used to overheat.

One day at the petrol station, finishing up paying for petrol, I heard this huge bang. As I looked toward my bike I saw flames billowing out, engulfing the whole thing. Silver Dream went up in smoke.

Supermoto

My second attempt was a slight improvement on the last. This time I wanted to build a supermoto because it was very popular in Europe and not yet in Australia. I remember telling my bikie friends, “This bike would be used for flat track racing in years to come and if good enough, I will sell plenty of them.”

We started with a Honda XL 350 (I had to find a different friend to help me build this one, as Peter had had enough of me) and the result was amazing. The bike looked and felt beautiful. I was picturing myself travelling the world, taking meetings with people wanting to buy my design. But everything always seems bigger and better in your mind. I learnt this when I went to Japan to sell to the Japanese … you’ve heard of that guy who failed selling ice to an eskimo!

Chef supermoto
Michel’s supermoto

However, to this day, I still love that bike, especially the colours green and yellow and the Kangaroo. Something else I had to fight hard for was that paint job – needless to say, I lost that friend too. This poor bike had many more dramas to come to his life … just ask Phill Beaumont.

Bimota resto

Chef Michel Bonet
Bimota YB6

It took me long enough but I learnt a valuable lesson – leave the bikes alone and stick to cooking. So the next bike I bought was a Bimota YB6 Tuatara and leaving it alone was the best thing I did.

Until 33 years of loyal service later, not to mention 70,000km, as you would expect,  she needed and upgrade – a new lease on life – and this time I got it right.

Thanks to me new friend Paul Dale who spent countless hours bringing the Bimota back to its most basic form. It feels better and easier to ride as I don’t have to lean over the tank.Chef Michel Bonet

And here we are and maybe I’m not done as a salesman yet! Because on my next trip to Italy I just might drop into the factory and you never know, they may like the design for future bikes.

As I’m past 76 years  now and even though it’s easier to ride and easier to service, we all know that a 33-year-old motorcycle is always going to be in need of a lot of TLC, which basically means I’m going to need many more friends!

Paul has saved all the parts and bits and pieces because one day I’d like to donate the Bimota to a Museum in Italy. After all, only 60 of these Bimotas were made in 1987 and at the time it was the fastest production bike in the world and not to mention, the most expensive. Can you imagine how many of my other bikes and free fine dining experiences I had to trade in to get my hands on it?

BMW epilogue

I wish my story ended there but I’ve started working on my BMW K 100 RT in France (yes, I have friends in France too…well, for now I do).

BMW K 100 RT

As you can see the fairing has come off and I painted it the colour of my first motorcycle! But it is still a touring bike, as I use it for touring two-up. When one day I won’t be able to ride it anymore, I will do a real cafe racer.

(If you are interested in reading about Michel’s interesting life story and try some of his favourite recipes, you can buy his book, “A Boy From Burgundy” for just $20 including postage by clicking here.)

Now tell us your motorcycle story! Just send photos and details to [email protected].

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

Harley-Davidson sheds jobs for savings

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Harley-Davidson will shed 640 jobs this year for millions of dollars in savings as it streamlines the company to respond to weakening demand for their bikes.

Last month the company sacked 90 staff at their York Vehicle Operations in Pennsylvania and 50 at its Tomahawk facility in Wisconsin after temporarily suspending production over the pandemic in March.

Now they have announced a further 500 jobs will go globally as part of new CEO Jochen Zeitz’s “Rewire” strategy.

Harley is not alone in slashing jobs. Last month, Triumph Motorcycle announce it will slash 400 jobs as a result of the coronavirus pandemic and their plan to move more production from Hinckley to Thailand.

Jochen says they will produce fewer bikes for more “exclusivity”.

It follows several years of weakening sales.

Savings

Harley is expecting $US42m in savings this year from the job cuts.

Despite the savings, Harley-Davidson also announced last month that it had access to a loan of up to $US350 million (about $A500 million) over the next year.

While the company has not committed to the entire amount of the loan, it is committed to draw at least $US150m (about $A215m).

It’s all very confounding, but Jochen says he will reveal details later this month when he announces second quarter financial results.

Simpler operation

Jochen Zeitz with LiveWire rewire shares
Jochen Zeitz with the electric LiveWire

“Our new operating model is simpler, more focused and enables faster decisions across the entire company,” he says.

“The Rewire is progressing very well and substantial work is being done to eliminate complexity and get Harley-Davidson on a path to winning.

“Our new operating model is simpler, more focused and enables faster decisions across the entire company.

“We’ve taken a hard look at our entire set up, our spending, and how work is getting done, to align our operating model, structure and processes. We are building a strong foundation to drive a high-performance organization in the future.”

Meanwhile, VP Treasurer Darrell Thomas will become interim CFO, replacing CFO John Olin who is retiring.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

What Kind of Injuries Can be Sustained in a Motorcycle Accident?

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(By David Martin*)

Motorcycle accidents are something everyone wants to avoid. Unfortunately, accidents do happen, and any number of injuries can take place when this occurs.

In addition, riders are much more exposed than vehicle drivers and passengers, which can lead to more severe injuries and even some that are unique to motorcyclists. It is important to understand the risks and also know what measures to take to protect the most vulnerable body parts in case an accident takes place.

Head Injuries

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) are one of the most severe injuries that can be suffered by a human being. The head is especially exposed when riding a motorcycle, which is why wearing a helmet is so important.

Despite this, in 15% of accidents in which a rider wearing a helmet is involved, there is a TBI. This shows that not even a helmet is a failsafe protection. Therefore, it’s important to have an updated health insurance policy in case an accident takes place.

There are three different degrees of severity of TBI, which are mild (also known as a concussion), moderate, and severe. In any case, the person involved will need to go to the hospital, where costly procedures might be necessary.

Depending on the severity, the person involved might only need an examination but there is also the potential of needing surgery and rehabilitation. These and other expenses can be attenuated if a good motorcycle accident attorney is hired if the person wants to present a case against who they think was responsible for the accident.

Neck Injuries

Neck injuries are also very common given  how exposed the neck is during a collision. It has been estimated that this type of injury takes place in 22% of motorcycle accidents. One of the most common neck injuries is whiplash, which happens to both riders and car drivers.

Whiplash is caused by a quick and strong stretching of the neck, which results in a stretching of the cervical spine. These injuries often happen when the bike is hit from behind.

Symptoms associated with whiplash can include dizziness, sore neck, headaches, and poor balance.

Facial Injuries

These injuries usually happen when the person is not wearing a helmet or when the helmet is oversized, causing it to hurt the face during the crash. Half helmets and three-quarter helmets can also lead to face injuries as they do not protect the face entirely.

While these helmets might look cooler, a full-sized helmet is always the smartest way to go to protect your face. After all, it has been estimated that facial injuries take place in about 10% of motorcycle accidents.

This means that it’s much better to invest a little extra on a nice full helmet than to go for a riskier option that could lead to lifelong disfigurement and severe injury.

Spinal Injury

Spinal injuries are one of the worst types of injuries a person could suffer. They can have lifelong consequences, which go from mild discomfort to paralysis and death.

It is important to contact a motorcycle accident attorney in case of a spinal injury as the consequences can be quite debilitating. When someone else is at fault or even if the health insurance company is not providing the aid it should be, these cases can be taken to court.

Keep in mind that the brain communicates with the rest of the body through the spine. If this communication is cut due to a traumatic accident, the rest of the body will be severely affected.

In some cases, the injury can be improved and even entirely reversed with surgery or rehabilitation. Rehab will be focused on restoring flexibility, strength and, eventually, mobility, which can be a long and painful process.

Emotional Trauma

The mind can be injured as well, even if no physical damage can be observed. This is often ignored, but in reality, people involved in a motorcycle accident are likely to develop PTSD, which can be very detrimental to mental health.

Furthermore, people who suffer a serious injury can end up falling into a deep depression, which might require therapy for its correct management. It’s important to evaluate the presence of any signs or symptoms of emotional trauma and look for medical health if these are observed.

* About the author

David Martin is a marketing executive and paralegal assistant for Motorcyclelawyerla.com. He has established himself as a prominent author in personal injury matters. In his free time, you can find him playing golf in the public courses.

David Martin crash expert
David Martin

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

2021 Yamaha Trail Bikes Announced

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Yamaha announced its 2021 trail motorcycles lineup including the TT-R50E, TT-R110E, TT-R125LE, TT-R230E, and the PW50 which celebrates its 40th year of production.

All five models return unchanged but for new Team Yamaha Blue colors.

Begin Press Release

Yamaha Announces 2021 Full Lineup of Trail Motorcycles

Yamaha Celebrates the PW50’s 40th Anniversary

Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, announces its complete lineup of 2021 trail motorcycles and celebrates the 40th anniversary of the PW50. Designed for experiencing the outdoors, the TT-R lineup is made for trail riding that the entire family can enjoy.

“Yamaha’s trail-focused motorcycle lineup is perfect for those discovering the fun and freedom of the outdoors, trail riding, and enjoying time with friends and family,” said Derek Brooks, Yamaha Motorsports’ Motorcycle Product Line Manager. “With the 40th anniversary of the PW50, Yamaha is celebrating four decades of sharing our passion and introducing generations of kids to the world of off-road riding.”

2021 PW50: 40 Years, One Great Bike

 

With 40 years under its belt, the 2021 PW50 continues to be one of the best trail bikes for first-time riders. After making its debut, the PW50 established itself as the go-to bike for children just learning how to ride off-road. By focusing on a “toy-like” design, Yamaha engineered a bike that was both visually appealing and approachable to new, younger riders. Selling over 8,000 units in its first year, Yamaha has now shipped more than 380,000 PW50s to over 150 countries.

The 49cc, two-stroke engine coupled with the fully automatic transmission make this a perfect bike for beginners. The PW50’s seat height of only 18.7 inches and the adjustable throttle stop screw offer both rider comfort and parent peace of mind. Additionally, the PW50’s shaft final drive system is virtually maintenance-free while Yamaha’s proven Autolube oil injection system eliminates the need for fuel/oil premixing.

The 2021 PW50 will be available from dealers this month in next-generation Team Yamaha Blue for $1,649 MSRP.

2021 TT-R50E, TT-R110E, TT-R125LE and TT-R230E
The 2021 TT-R50E, TT-R110E, TT-R125LE and TT-R230E are made for ultimate trail riding fun. These electric start, air-cooled, four-stroke motorcycles offer Yamaha’s legendary durability and dependability, along with a broad, accessible powerband for ease of use and great performance in a variety of trail conditions. The low seat height of the entire TT-R line allows smaller and less experienced riders to gain confidence with easy access to the ground and great comfort.

The 2021 TT-R50E ($1,699 MSRP) will be available from dealers in August, while the TT-R110E ($2,299 MSRP), TT-R125LE ($3,349 MSRP) and TT-R230E ($4,449 MSRP) will be available from dealers this month in next-generation Team Yamaha Blue.

Learn more about the all-new trail bikes at www.yamahamotorsports.com/trail-motorcycle.

Find a range of Genuine Yamaha Accessories, apparel and more at www.shopyamaha.com/.

For more information related to all Yamaha products, visit www.yamahamotorsports.com/.






























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Motorcycle News, News

All-New YZ450FX Headlines 2021 Yamaha Cross Country Lineup

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Yamaha announced its 2021 YZ cross country models, including an updated YZ450FX model. The new 450 is joined by the YZ250FX four-stroke and the YZ125X and YZ250X two-strokes which return with a new Team Yamaha Blue color and graphics scheme.

2021 Yamaha YZ450FX

The new YZ450FX is designed for Hare Scramble and Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) racing. The 449cc liquid-cooled four-stroke engine receives a new cylinder head with steeper valve angles and a reshaped combustion chamber. The rear-slanting cylinder also receives a higher compression piston with low-friction rings and a longer connecting rod. Yamaha also further refined the wide-ratio five-speed transmission, claiming smoother shifting, and a more fficient crankcase breather system designed to reduce pumping losses. Yamaha claims the updated engine is lighter and more compact than last year’s engine, while producing more power across the rev range.

The aluminum bilateral beam frame was also redesigned, with Yamaha claiming improved cornering performance, traction and bump reaction. The engine mounts, top triple clamp and front axle were also revised to work with the new frame, and the KYB suspension was likewise retuned. The YZ450FX’s front brake caliper, brake pads and front and rear brake rotors are also new for 2021.

The 2021 Yamaha YZ450FX is available for $9,699 in Team Yamaha Blue.








 

Begin Press Release:

Yamaha Announces 2021 YZ Cross Country Motorcycles

Yamaha’s Redesigned YZ450FX Features Engine, Frame and Suspension Updates

MARIETTA, Ga. – July 9, 2020 – Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, is announcing its 2021 YZ cross country models including a redesigned 2021 YZ450FX. Designed to beat the competition in Hare Scrambles and Grand National Cross Country (GNCC®) races, the newest YZ450FX features a refined, more efficient engine, a redesigned frame with all-new flex characteristics, updated suspension settings, and more.

“Yamaha’s cross country lineup builds on the unmatched success of our motocross designs, using industry-leading technology to provide uncompromised performance for cross country competition,” said Derek Brooks, Yamaha Motorsports Motorcycle Product Line Manager. “The newly redesigned YZ450FX provides a lighter, more powerful, and better handling off-road experience for both cross country racers and recreational riders alike.”

The return of the two-stroke YZ125X and YZ250X models and four-stroke YZ250FX completes the 2021 YZ cross country lineup. All models will feature a next-generation Team Yamaha Blue color and graphic scheme to further accentuate the advances of the YZ series.

Welcome to the victorYZone
Yamaha’s off-road competition bikes offer the very latest in technology with performance features designed to help racing enthusiasts reach their maximum potential, win races, and stand on top of the podium.

New 2021 YZ450FX: Cross Country Domination
The 2021 YZ450FX is designed to beat the cross country competition. The new 449cc, liquid-cooled, four-stroke, electric start engine features an all-new compact cylinder head with redesigned combustion chamber shape, and steeper valve angles. The rearward-slanted cylinder houses a higher compression piston with low friction rings attached to a longer connecting rod. The wide ratio, 5-speed transmission has been refined to provide smoother shifting, and a more efficient crankcase breather system has been adopted to decrease pumping losses. In all, the lighter, more compact engine produces increased power across the entire RPM range for stronger and more linear pulling power.

The latest evolution of Yamaha’s lightweight aluminum bilateral beam frame has been redesigned with all-new flex characteristics that provide improved cornering performance, traction and bump reaction to give the rider more confidence to push harder in any off-road condition. Other chassis components such as engine mounts, top triple clamp and front axle, as well as the class-leading KYB® suspension with enhanced compression and rebound characteristics were carefully refined to reduce weight while improving handling and performance. To bring the new package to a stop, the 2021 YZ450FX features a newly designed front brake caliper, brake pads and front and rear disc. The combined changes to the new 2021 YZ450FX deliver increased power output with more controllable, linear acceleration and lightweight handling characteristics that mimic the YZ250FX.

To further showcase the YZ450FX’s cross country edge, electric start, a lightweight lithium battery, and advanced fuel injection are all standard features. The front-positioned intake and rear-positioned exhaust layout deliver the widest spread of reliable power while balancing the weight for excellent mass centralization. This cross country machine also continues to feature Yamaha’s advanced racing technology. The dual-mode switchable engine mapping and wireless connectivity is handled through the industry’s only free-of-charge complete tuning system, highlighted by the Yamaha Power Tuner App, which allows racers to adjust their engine performance right from their phone. With new next-generation Team Yamaha Blue colors and graphics, the 2021 YZ450FX showcases Yamaha’s cross country competitive edge.

The 2021 YZ450FX will be available from Yamaha dealers in September in next-generation Team Yamaha Blue for $9,699 MSRP.

2021 YZ250FX: Your Power, Your Way
Yamaha’s winning design returns with the 2021 YZ250FX. With its revolutionary front-intake, rear-exhaust, liquid-cooled, DOHC 4-stroke power plant, added sixth gear, and wide ratio transmission, this is the weapon of choice for cross country racing. The aluminum bilateral beam frame, and industry leading KYB suspension of the 2021 YZ250FX provide the ultimate balance of race-winning performance, rideability and comfort.

With electric start, a 2.16-gallon fuel tank, rugged plastic skid plate, sealed O-ring chain and 18-inch rear wheel, the YZ250FX is ready to win right out of the box. The bike also feature’s Yamaha’s free-of-charge complete tuning system, highlighted by the Yamaha Power Tuner App. With the ability to make fueling and ignition timing changes and choose between two user-defined ECU maps through the handlebar-mounted dual-mode switch, the YZ250FX is equipped for on-track, wireless performance adjustments.

The 2021 YZ250FX will be available from dealers in October in next-generation Team Yamaha Blue for $8,499 MSRP.

2021 YZ125X and YZ250X 
The two-stroke YZ125X and YZ250X are back for 2021. Optimized for the unique demands of cross country racing, the YZ125X and YZ250X feature the Yamaha Power Valve System with six-speed and wide ratio five-speed transmissions, respectively, for the ultimate cross country power plant. Their lightweight aluminum frame hosts the industry-leading fully adjustable, KYB speed sensitive spring-type suspension that is tuned specifically for cross country races. The 18-inch rear wheel, sealed O-ring chain, and off-road focused tires, coupled with the aggressive styling, ready the YZ125X and YZ250X for GNCC racing.

The 2021 YZ125X ($6,699 MSRP) and YZ250X ($7,599 MSRP) will be available from dealers this month in next-generation Team Yamaha Blue.

Yamaha bLU cRU Off-Road Racing Contingency Program
All 2021 YZ models are eligible for Yamaha’s current 2020 bLU cRU Off-Road Racing Contingency Program, which features nearly $5 million for Yamaha bLU cRU riders competing in off-road motorcycle racing. YZ riders can earn contingency payouts via a bLU cRU debit card, receive a 10 percent rebate on GYTR parts and accessory purchases of up to $1,000, and receive an instant $45 credit on http://www.bLUcRUswag.com. The 2021 bLU cRU Off-Road Racing Contingency Program details will be announced soon.

For complete details on how to register for the bLU cRU Off-Road Racing Contingency Program, along with specific information on which racing series, events, and classes are included, visit the Off-Road Racing Contingency page on the Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, website at:
https://www.yamahamotorsports.com/motocross/pages/yamaha-off-road-contingency-program.





















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Competition, Motorcycle News, News

WorldSBK champion Rea quickest overall in Catalunya test

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News 10 Jul 2020

WorldSBK champion Rea quickest overall in Catalunya test

Section: Competition

Kawasaki Racing Team rider edges Redding to top the time-sheets.

Image: Supplied.

A two-day test for Motul Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK) teams concluded at Catalunya on Thursday, with Kawasaki Racing Team’s defending champion Jonathan Rea topping the time-sheets overall.

Scorching heat, high track temperature and a slippery circuit meant that crashes and red flags were in abundance and that times for the top 10 were set in the morning session of the final day.

Rea set a blistering lap of 1m40.450s that was never headed, meaning he leaves the test with a good feeling aboard his ZX-10RR. Teammate Alex Lowes backed up the team’s efforts with fourth as the championship leader continued his adaptation from Yamaha to Kawasaki.

It was another British rider in second place as Scott Redding (Aruba.it Racing Ducati) led Ducati’s charge. The rookie was top in the afternoon session and come the close of day one, was a mere 0.156s behind Rea on combined times. Teammate Chaz Davies worked on chassis direction was fourth this afternoon and finished ninth overall, although race-pace looks good.

The BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team had a very strong showing on day two, with Tom Sykes leading their charge in third place. The 2013 world champion was one of just three riders in the 1m40s after the morning session and enjoyed his first time out at the circuit, doing plenty of race simulations. Eugene Laverty was also right in the mix and concluded the top six overall and was just over a second from top spot despite a crash in the morning on the Q tyre.

The first Yamaha on the charts was in fifth place and Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha) after getting back up to speed, although a morning crash at turn seven and afternoon technical issues suggested that it wasn’t all plain-sailing. Teammate Michael van der Mark also had a morning technical problem as he concluded the test on seventh.

The first of the Independent riders came home in eighth place overall and that was Ten Kate’s Loris Baz. The Frenchman was on the pace on his YZF-R1 and focussed on tyre life in hot conditions and his work gave him third in the afternoon on day two. Leandro Mercado (Motocorsa Racing) made it two Independent teams in the top 10 and, despite an afternoon tumble, was P10 overall.

It was a great afternoon showing for American newcomer Garrett Gerloff (GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Junior Team) and teammate Federico Caricasulo, as they were eighth and 11th in the afternoon, with Gerloff just missing out on an overall top 10.

After missing much of the entire morning session, Team HRC were out on track in the afternoon heat. Leon Haslam was up inside the top five after lunch, but finished in ninth, while Alvaro Bautista was a lowly 15th. Despite not testing any new parts, electronics refinement was key. Haslam would end up 12th overall and Bautista 15th, but without a full day on track, the potential is yet to be reached for the team and its new Honda CBR1000RR-R.

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

Competition, Motocross, News

Three-round AUS Supercross championship in the works

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News 10 Jul 2020

Three-round AUS Supercross championship in the works

Section: Competition

International element of 2020 series to be impacted by COVID-19.

Image: Foremost Media.

Australian Supercross Championship organisers are aiming to host a three-round series in the final months of 2020, currently working to overcome the impact of coronavirus that could affect any international element of the season.

It was announced today by Motorcycling Australia (MA) that the Australian Motocross Championship will span up to six rounds over a two-month period from the start of September, which will leave room for a downscaled supercross to commence in late November.

MA is taking over the operations of the motocross series after former promoter Williams Event Management (WEM) opted out last month, which leaves supercross commercial rights-holder AUS SX Holdings as the largest private promoter in the sport at a national level. As well, WEM is expected to continue its motorsport management involvement in AUS Supercross, which was five rounds in 2019.

“In addition to motocross, we’re in discussion with the supercross promoters,” explained MA CEO Peter Doyle. “Some of the major events will be affected obviously by the closure of international borders, so large events like the AUS-X Open, for sure, they’re in jeopardy – there’s no secret there.

“However, we are still looking at a smaller three-round supercross championship. The complexity now is to fit those in with the motocross, which is why we’re saying that series will be five to six rounds. Should supercross not be able to run, we would possibly extend the motocross season out.”

It’s becoming increasingly unlikely that the AUS-X Open will be able to take place at Marvel Stadium this year due to overseas travel restrictions, leaving a more traditional domestic championship without the high-profile international event to cap-off the season. The S-X Open Auckland was already understood to be being benched for at least 2020, instead to potentially return on alternate years.

“AUS-X Open is the most challenging one because it relies on international riders, but the most likely scenario will be that there will be an Australian Supercross Championship with or without AUS-X,” AUS SX Holdings director Adam Bailey told MotoOnline. “The championship itself, we’re working on quite regularly to try and get the championship up. All of it will be decided in July.”

Penrite Honda Racing’s current SX1 champion Justin Brayton and SX2 title-winner Chris Blose – as well as US team regular Mitchell Oldenburg – have all expressed interest in travelling from America for this year’s AUS Supercross championship despite the pandemic, according to team owner Yarrive Konsky, but would almost certainly face quarantine even in the latter months of the year.

“There’s a lot to consider, but Justin, Chris and Mitchell would love to come back to Australia this year,” said Konsky. “It’s obviously a job, so therefor they could potentially be exempted [to travel into the country], but would have to go through the same quarantine regulations as anybody else. Therefore, it could make it hard and we have to be mindful of how late the championship could run and how that will impact their preparations for 2021.”

If the Australian series does extend into mid-December rather than finishing at the end of November as per last season, it will – if the out of contract Brayton continues to race AMA Supercross – almost certainly impact the availability of the reigning champions, who would instead be in the final stages of preparing for Anaheim’s annual Monster Energy Supercross opener at the beginning of January next year.

Source: MotoOnline.com.au