Tag Archives: News

Motorcycle News, News

Snake hitches ride on Royal Enfield

Leave a comment

The thought of a snake hitching a ride on your motorcycle sends shivers down the spine, but it has happened.

In the latest incident, a Mumbai man was alerted by another motorist to a snake under the seat of his Royal Enfield.

The rider stopped in the middle of Indian traffic and used a stick to coax the snake out.

A video of the incident was posted on Twitter.

Despite the Twitter caption, it’s a common cat snake (scientific name Boiga trigonata) which is semi-venomous and a good climber.

Snakes are fairly common in India in monsoon season.

Back in February an Indian man rode 11km with a snake in his helmet before he discovered it!

snake
Rider finds snake in his helmet

Snake tales

Snakes have not only been known to hitch rides on planes, but also on motorcycles before as these videos show.

In Brisbane, a rider reports he once had a tree snake crawl across his handlebars and up his arm.

He didn’t know which end he was grabbing, but he picked it up and threw it off as he rode 100km/h along the M1 without falling off.

He did get a fright, but says he wasn’t too worried as he suspected it was only a tree snake as they climb (like the cat snake) while deadly brown snakes don’t.

Snakes are attracted to the warmth of the engine as well as the dark and warmth of the cavity under the seat.

The reptile usually boards the bike while it is parked somewhere.

We have run over many snakes while riding and none has been flicked up on to the bike.

They also like to climb up into cars as this Gladstone driver found this week.

Spiders are also common unwelcome hitchhikers.

I once rode almost 500km from Bateman’s Bay to Mudgee with a big spider on my jacket which I had stupidly placed on the ground while I drank my coffee.

Never, ever put your helmet or jacket on the ground! Lesson learnt.

On another occasion I had a hornet in my jacket that repeatedly bit me for several kilometres until I could find it and kill it.

If you are bitten by a snake, spider or other venomous creature, obviously seek medical attention as soon as possible.

The Royal Flying Doctor Service has a Fast First Aid booklet with advice for people with no medical training on how to manage first-aid situations. It includes managing a heart attack, snake bites, choking, burns and severe bleeding.

It is free in NSW and ACT only. To receive your copy text ‘NOW’ to 0428 044 444.

According to the University of Sydney, Australia is home to 60 species of snakes, including the 10 most lethal in the world.

There are about 3000 reported snakebites each year resulting in between 200 and 500 requiring anti-­venom and an average of one or two fatalities.

Mt Tamborine Goat Track crashes
Tar snakes … not to be confused with real snakes!

RFDS guide on snake bites

  • Do try to note the colour, size, distinctive markings and patterns of the snake without putting yourself at risk. A positive identification will help medics get the correct anti-­‐venom into the patient more quickly.
  • Do NOT wash the area of the bite or try to suck out the venom. It is extremely important to retain traces of venom for use with venom identification kits.
  • Do NOT incise or cut the bite, or apply a high tourniquet. Cutting or incising the bite won’t help. High tourniquets are ineffective and can be fatal if released.
  • Do stop the spread of venom – bandage firmly, splint and immobilise. All the major medical associations recommend slowing the spread of venom by placing a folded pad over the bite area and then applying a firm bandage. It should not stop blood flow to the limb or congest the veins. Only remove the bandage in a medical facility, as the release of pressure will cause a rapid flow of venom through the bloodstream.
  • Do NOT allow the victim to walk or move their limbs.
  • Use a splint or sling to minimise all limb movement. Put the patient on a stretcher or bring transportation to the patient.
  • Do seek medical help immediately as the venom can cause severe damage to health or even death within a few hours.

Have you ever had a snake, spider or other unwelcome guest on your motorcycle? How did you deal with it? Leave your comments below.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

Ducati puts smile on Mona Lisa’s face

Leave a comment

No wonder Mona Lisa is smiling!

“Ducati Mona Lisa” is the name of the work of art created by the French artist Jisbar (born Jean-Baptiste Launay) which will be auctioned on Thursday 16 July 2020 to raise funds for the #RaceAgainstCOVID.

The charity was organised by the Borgo Panigale motorcycle manufacturer in support of the rehabilitation programs that the Polyclinic of S. Orsola in Bologna has developed for patients in post Covid-19 convalescence.

It follows the recent release of the very limited-edition Scrambler 1100 Sport PRO with €500 from the sale of each going to help the recovery of Bologna COVID-19 patients.

Scrambler Ducati Club Italia
Limited edition Scrambler

Ducati Mona Lisa

The painting is part of the “Mona Lisa” series, where Jisbar reinterprets Leonardo Da Vinci’s famous masterpiece in different ways through his imaginative and colourful style, which is consecrating him as one of the most interesting emerging youngsters on the pop-art scene world.

In “Ducati Mona Lisa” the female figure in the centre of the picture is surrounded by visual and graphic elements that recall the history of Ducati, its models in the range and some of its most famous riders. The French artist created this work with great enthusiasm and has now made it available for free to support the #RaceAgainstCOVID initiative organised by Ducati.Ducati Mona Lisa aids COVID recovery

“Ducati Mona Lisa”, an acrylic on canvas of 141 x 106cm, will be put up for auction by Cambi Aste on the morning of Thursday 16 July 2020, during auction #481 dedicated to modern and contemporary art, photography and comics, starting at 10am (Bologna time) until the end of the last batch. The auction will be streamed online and offers can be placed directly from the page of the site which can be accessed via a link obtained during the registration phase.

Registrations are already open on www.cambiaste.com. The site is available in Italian, English, French and Chinese, while the auctioneer’s live streaming will only be in Italian.

The proceeds from the sale of the work will be entirely donated to the Policlinico di S. Orsola in Bologna.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

Zero Motorcycles Announces Cash for Carbon Motorcycle Trade-In Program

Leave a comment

Trade-in your gas bike for a Zero and get even more cash thrown on top of the trade-in value.

Begin press release:

Zero Motorcycles, the global leader in electric motorcycles and powertrains, today announced the brief return of its most successful incentive program, Cash for Carbon. The ongoing lockdown restrictions have created a surge in new and returning motorcyclists flooding to find adventure. For the last 13+ years Zero has been working to perfect the motorcycle riding experience to ensure every moment on a Zero Motorcycle is one to remember. With award-winning and effortlessly powerful electric motorcycles, Zero Motorcycles is proud to make the transformational riding experience of an electric motorcycle more attainable than ever with this trade-in promotion.

Cash for Carbon increases the trade-in value allowed by an authorized Zero Motorcycles dealer of any titled gas motorcycle a rider uses as trade towards the purchase of a new 2020 SR/F or SR/S. From now until August 15, 2020, buyers who bring in a gas bike as trade-in towards the purchase of a new Zero will be given an additional $1,500 credit on top of the trade-in value assessed by the participating dealer on a given motorcycle.

When a rider takes advantage of this opportunity, he or she will also still be eligible for the 10% Federal Tax Credit available for all Zero’s electric motorcycles, plus any available state or local tax incentives, creating up to $4,000 or more in value on the purchase of a new model. The SR/F and new SR/S are the pinnacle models from the brand that defined the category of electric motorcycles and represent the purest connection between the rider and the road that you can find on two wheels.

“Our dealership network has some of the best operators in the world and they’re fielding more inquiries about electric motorcycles than ever before,” said Mike Cunningham, Zero Motorcycles Vice President of Sales, Americas. “This trend has been intensifying and the Cash for Carbon program will empower riders to get the experience they’ve dreamed about that’s only available on a Zero electric motorcycle,” Cunningham added.

The SR/S was released as a new model in February 2020 and joins the SR/F, its award-winning sibling, as the company’s two most powerful and premium offerings. The effortlessly powerful motorcycles are driven by Zero’s proprietary powertrain that produces an astounding 110 hp and 140 ft-lb of torque. Each model can charge through any wall socket or at over 90% of the public EV charge network through fast, Level 2 chargers. The unbridled SR/F is capable of up to 201 city miles of range per charge with an available Power Tank and the sleek and aerodynamic full fairing of the SR/S allows for up to 13% more range when riding in a tucked position. Additionally, each bike is powered by Zero’s proprietary operating system, Cypher III, which controls every subordinate technology on the bike including the full complement of Bosch Motorcycle Stability Controls like straight line and cornering ABS, Drag Torque Control, and Traction Control.

Zero Motorcycles are designed and assembled in the USA and supported by dealerships all over North America. A complete list of their locations, along with all other information on the motorcycles, their technology, or the Cash for Carbon promotion can be found at ZeroMotorcycles.com/cash-for-carbon/.

The post Zero Motorcycles Announces Cash for Carbon Motorcycle Trade-In Program appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

MotoGP, Motorcycle News, Motorcycle Racing, News

MotoGP vs Formula One: Which is Faster, Two Wheels or Four?

Leave a comment

While it was very nice of MotoGP to put out droves of content for free, nothing quite compares to the thrills of live, high-speed motorbikes. After a long wait, MotoGP has returned with a new schedule, with a sleek stack of races across Europe and a few more earmarked to take place in North America, South America, and Asia, pending confirmation. As of 19 July, MotoGP is back, with the Circuito de Jerez hosting the first of a confirmed 13 races that’ll give the super-powered bikes a place to burn some rubber and compete for the championship. Alongside MotoGP, another high-velocity sport has made its return, Formula One, so we thought it prudent to check out the two racing tournaments side-by-side to see if two wheels are faster than four.

The insane speeds of MotoGP bikes

The Qatar tests from February 2020 laid down some incredible speeds. Top of the pile was Jack Miller on a Ducati, clocking in at 355.2 kph (220.7 mph). Close behind was Danilo Petrucci at 352.9 kph, Francesco Bagnaia at 351.7 kph, and Johann Zarco at 350.6 kph; all of whom were also riding a Ducati bike. It may be surprising that, despite his dominance, Marc Marquez doesn’t have the fastest bike in MotoGP, with his Honda reaching a top speed of 346.1 kph. The top speed of these Qatar tests wasn’t too far off of the record, with the Ducati of Andrea Dovizioso hitting 356.5 kph (221.5 mph) at the Gran Premio d’Italia Oakley.

Away from the track, manufacturers are pushing the limits of what we thought was possible on two wheels with absurdly fast models. In the electric motorcycle space, Venturi’s BB2.5 prototype hit a staggering 495 kph (307.6 mph) in testing, while they say their BB3 model can hit unheralded heights of 700 kph (434.96 mph). As for what can be purchased on the market, the 2019 MTT 420RR is claimed to be the fastest motorcycle, with a top speed of 273.4 mph (440 kph). The speeds put up by the stars of MotoGP and commercial companies have set the bar very high for four-wheeled vehicles.

Four wheels competing at the highest level

Formula One is regarded as one of the most intense sports in the world, with the top speeds of F1 cars during races hitting absurd heights. In 2005, the bar was set at the Italian Grand Prix, with the McLaren-Mercedes driven by Juan Pablo Montoya getting to 372.6 kph (231.5 mph). It took 11 years, but during practice for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, one Valtteri Bottas crept over the bar by hitting a top speed of 378 kph (234.9 mph) in 2016. Much like in MotoGP, having the fastest car doesn’t necessarily lead to victory, with the Ferrari hitting the fastest speed of 336.7 kph (209.1 mph) in 2020, and yet they don’t lead the way.

He may be the clear back-up driver to Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes, but Bottas is still laying down some incredible speeds to take points, finishing the race headlining F1’s return, the Austrian Grand Prix, in first place. Bottas claimed the top spot, Charles Leclerc’s Ferrari came in second, and Lando Norris in the McLaren-Renault came in third after Hamilton was deducted points. Such a display from Bottas and his historic speeds have earned the Finn a lot of favour and, as of 6 July, he’s the second-favourite at 2/1 to win the Drivers’ Championship while topping the standings. Of course, not everyone can drive an F1 car, with the fastest four-wheeler on the market being the almighty Bugatti Chiron Sport, which hits 261 mph (420 kph) with the pedal down.

Two vs Four: split decision

When comparing motorbikes and cars at the highest levels of competition, the vehicles of MotoGP come up just a little bit short on those of Formula One. At 221.5 mph on a bike to 234.9 mph in an F1 car, Moto GP is slower, but both are incredible speeds to hit in the heat of competition and while utilising the skill required to navigate tracks and other drivers. As reaffirmed by Red Bull, F1 cars can go faster around a track than MotoGP motorbikes. On the commercial side, however, those seeking the fastest speeds should opt for a top-of-the-range motorbike, with the 2019 MTT 420RR’s top speed of 273.4 mph eclipsing that of the Bugatti Chiron Sport’s 261 mph.

So, in the world of motorsport, the conditions are in place to allow the four-wheeled Formula One cars to go faster than MotoGP’s two-wheelers. However, if you want to own the fastest bike or car, you’ll find the top speeds in a motorbike.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

2020 COTA MotoGP Round Cancelled

Leave a comment

As the 2020 MotoGP season prepares to restart, there’s bad news for the lone American stop on the tour: Texas’ Circuit of the Americas has announced this year’s MotoGP race in Austin has been cancelled. The FIM, MotoGP and series promoter Dorna have not released any official statements yet, but the track has confirmed the news on its official social media channels. (UPDATE: COTA has taken down its social media posts referencing the event’s cancellation. Given the lack of formal word from Dorna or MotoGP, it’s likely the track jumped the gun on announcement.)

The Grand Prix of the Americas was originally supposed to be held in April but was postponed due to the novel coronavirus pandemic. COTA was tentatively penciled in for Nov. 13-15, but it appears a recent surge in COVID-19 cases in Texas has forced the round to be cancelled.

The news follows the cancellation of the 2020 State Fair of Texas on Tuesday.

A post on Reddit suggests that COTA has sent out email notifications to those who had purchased tickets. According to the emails, tickets for this year’s race will be rolled over to 2021, with MotoGP expected to return to COTA on April 16-18.

This is a developing story and we will update this post as official announcements come in.

UPDATE: The MotoAmerica round scheduled to run the same weekend at COTA has also been cancelled. As of yet, we still haven’t heard official word from MotoGP, the FIM or Dorna, but MotoAmerica’s official statement below claims that Dorna has cancelled the Grand Prix of the Americas.

COTA Round Of MotoAmerica Series Cancelled

With the announcement coming today from Dorna and the Circuit of The Americas that the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas, scheduled for November 13-15, has been cancelled, MotoAmerica is also announcing that it will not be racing at the Austin, Texas, facility in 2020.

MotoAmerica, however, is working diligently on options to keep its 20-race HONOS Superbike Series intact for 2020.

“It’s a shame that we have to cancel the MotoAmerica round at COTA,” said MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey. “The race is a highlight of our schedule and it’s always good to combine our efforts with Dorna to put on a great show in Austin. COVID-19 has made it virtually impossible for the MotoGP series to travel to the U.S. so we fully understand the issues they are facing in 2020. We look forward to returning to COTA with MotoGP in 2021. In the meantime, we are working on a solution to find a replacement round as we continue to strive towards having a 20-race Superbike Series.”

The COTA round was scheduled to be the MotoAmerica HONOS Superbike Series finale.

The 2020 MotoAmerica Series continues with round three of the championship at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, July 31-August 2.

For the complete 2020 MotoAmerica Series schedule, click HERE

To purchase tickets for any of the 2020 series round, click HERE

For information on how to watch the 2020 MotoAmerica Series, click HERE

The post 2020 COTA MotoGP Round Cancelled appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

Motorcycle News, News

The new Civante is Yamahas First Class 3 eBike

Leave a comment

It’s like the Triumph man said when speaking of the new Rocket 3 last year, you always want more. We liked Yamaha’s cool eBikes when we tested them, also last year, but were left with the nagging feeling that a few more mph sometimes wouldn’t be a bad thing. That’s because those bikes were Class 1, and limited by law to 20 mph. Well, the new Civante is Yamaha’s first Class 3 U.S. import. It’ll let you pedal along at 28 mph. That’s really fast enough on a bicycle for most of us. Don’t forget your helmet. And gloves.

2018 Yamaha EBikes First Ride Review

——————————————————————————————————

Yamaha Press Release:

Yamaha Announces New Civante Class 3 Road e-Bike in U.S.

Power, Comfort and Handling with 28-mph Assist; Available at Bike Shops this Summer

CYPRESS, Calif. – July 8, 2020 – Yamaha Bicycles is launching the new Civante Class 3 electric power assist bicycle this summer, expanding its lineup of fitness-focused road bikes. The Civante’s stylish drop bar design and exceptional handling offer another level of performance in Yamaha’s proven e-Bike lineup by providing smooth, natural and powerful assist up to 28 mph.

Yamaha, the pioneering leader in e-Bikes, launched the world’s first electrically power assisted bicycle in 1993, and is the only manufacturer with 27-years of experience designing complete e-Bikes from frame to motor. The Civante is Yamaha’s first U.S. model offered in the Class 3 category.

“The Civante will introduce a new group of riders to Yamaha’s legendary quality, comfort and performance and increases and diversifies our retail options,” said Drew Engelmann, Yamaha’s Power Assist Bicycle group sales and marketing manager. “The Civante looks great, feels smooth and comfortable, and delivers the cutting-edge handling dynamics and seamless integration of assist technology that Yamaha does better than anyone else.”

The Civante gets its power assist from Yamaha’s PWSeries SE motor, which delivers the purest, smoothest and most natural e-Bike assist feeling thanks to Yamaha’s Triple Sensor System. Utilizing frictionless sensors, the system measures pedal-torque, bicycle speed and crank arm cadence, and then delivers just the right amount of assist based on changing terrain and riding situations.

From wheel to wheel, the Civante is a drop bar bicycle that will make a daily commute, fitness ride, or weekend adventure an enjoyable experience. Key features include:

  • Center-mounted PWSeries SE Motor seamlessly integrated into the chassis and delivering four levels of smooth power assist.
  • Class 3 power assist up to 28 mph, with up to 70Nm of max torque, and cadence support up to 110 rpm.
  • Long-lasting 500-watt-hour Lithium-ion battery pack with versatile charging options (on or off the bicycle) with Yamaha’s high-speed charger (charges from 0-80 percent in approximately one hour).
  • Multi-function LCD display with Bluetooth app compatibility and a clear, bright readout showing assist modes, speedometer, odometer, trip meter, battery capacity, clock, stopwatch, diagnostics and more.
  • Ergonomic drop handlebar design for multiple riding positions to deliver optimal efficiency and control, and extra padding wrapped in cork bar tape for vibration damping comfort.
  • Built-in convenience features including an LED front headlight, prewiring for Yamaha’s rear rack with integrated taillight, and rack and fender kit mounts.
  • Yamaha aluminum frame and fork with integrated housing and cable routing for a sleeker look and better protection from the elements.
  • E-Bike rated tires featuring reflective sidewalls and smooth tread with exceptional protection from flats built into the casing.
  • Mid-depth aerodynamic wheels with strong 12mm thru axle hub designs for maximum control and confidence when cornering.
  • Durable 10-speed drive train, double chainring, Shimano STI shifters and hydraulic disc brakes.

The new Yamaha Civante will be available this summer in a crisp Polar White color scheme with an MSRP of $3,399. The Civante will feature a three-year warranty on the drive unit, 500-watt-hour battery, controller, display and frame.

Yamaha Power Assist Bicycles is part of the Smart Power Vehicle Division of Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA. The Yamaha Bicycles lineup includes a variety of power assist bicycles for fitness, fun, commuting and serious recreation. View Yamaha’s full line of Power Assist Bicycles at www.YamahaBicycles.com and find a local retailer at Yamaha’s dealer locator. See future Yamaha Bicycle models at: https://www.yamahabicycles.com/future-ebikes/

Follow Yamaha Bicycles for more information, photos and videos at www.instagram.com/YamahaBicycles, www.facebook.com/YamahaBicycles, www.twitter.com/YamahaBicycles. #YamahaCivante and #YamahaBicycles

 

 

The post The new Civante is Yamaha’s First Class 3 eBike appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

Competition, Motorcycle News, News

Herfoss impressed by new Honda in initial shakedown test

Leave a comment

News 8 Jul 2020

Herfoss impressed by new Honda in initial shakedown test

Section: Competition

Two-time ASBK champion completes first laps on 2020 bike in Queensland.

Image: Scottya Photography.

A shakedown outing aboard Honda’s brand new CBR1000RR-R has left double Australian Superbike champion Troy Herfoss impressed with the package that he will take into the 2020 remainder once competition resumes.

The Penrite Honda Racing rider turned his first laps aboard the latest Fireblade at Morgan Park on Monday in ASBK trim, quickly finding comfort and coming away confident that the bike will be an immediate improvement.

With over 10 horsepower more than his previous race bike recorded on the ER Motorsport dyno, Herfoss welcomed the much-needed increase, but said that collectively the bike was significantly refined in comparison to the model that took him to the 2018 crown.

“It was exciting, as you can imagine, because everything is completely new on the bike – seating position, handlebars, footpegs… everything,” Herfoss told CycleOnline. “The bike’s just so well-refined and my first impression was just that the power is really smooth. Without really riding next to someone, it’s hard to tell how much faster it really is.

“It became pretty evident early in the day that the bike’s got a lot of power. The biggest improvement, I think, is the gearbox. It’s so smooth on downshift, really impressive and it’s a really easy bike to ride. It’s got the Honda characteristic, but revs a lot harder.

“Straight away, at the end of the first day I was a little bit faster than I was at a track-day on the older bike the week before. Obviously I didn’t break any lap records, but everything’s super-promising and we’re actually back out there tomorrow and the next day.”

Equipped with Michelin tyres for this season and continuing to use K-Tech Suspension, Herfoss is working closely with returning crew chief Paul Free – longtime former Team Honda Racing owner – in developing base-settings on the new Honda to suit the ASBK championship.

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

Competition, Motorcycle News, News

ASBK calendar reshuffle anticipated following Morgan Park delay

Leave a comment

News 8 Jul 2020

ASBK calendar reshuffle anticipated following Morgan Park delay

Section: Competition

Further revisions to the 2020 championship schedule to be made.

Image: Russell Colvin.

The scheduled second round of the 2020 Mi-Bike Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK) is up in the air after Motorcycling Australia (MA) confirmed that Morgan Park will no longer take place between 21-23 August.

Phillip Island was initially due to hold round two until it was then moved to Queensland, however, a spike in COVID-19 cases in Victoria prompting further border closers has made for additional challenges.

“We have been clear with competitors and teams that the COVID-19 environment will require their flexibility and understanding in 2020,” ASBK sporting director Simon Maas explained. “These date changes are incredibly difficult and challenging to keep finding workable solutions. We are sure the ASBK paddock is frustrated by this latest delay, as we are too. We again thank the entire ASBK paddock for their patience as we are all in this situation together right now.”

According to a short statement released by MA this afternoon, further reviews to this year’s ASBK calendar are currently underway and an updated schedule can be expected for release in the coming days. The next scheduled event on the previously-released calendar was Winton in Victoria, scheduled for 11-13 September.

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

Motorcycle News, News

Road bike sales steady amid second quarter industry boom

Leave a comment

News 8 Jul 2020

Road bike sales steady amid second quarter industry boom

Section: General

Yamaha the top-selling brand to date during first half of 2020.

Image: iKapture.

A spectacular second quarter of sales in the motorcycle industry has seen the road bike market remain steady at 15,243 new bikes sold between January to June 2020.

According to reports from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI), that figure sees road bike sales decrease by 2.7 percent in comparison to the 15,668 sold during the same quarter of last year.

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

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

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

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

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

The leading road bike brand so far in 2020 has been Yamaha with 2624 sales, ahead of Harley-Davidson (2613), Honda (2373), Kawasaki (2262) and BMW (1258). Brands to increase include Husqvarna by 134.9 percent, Indian 40.2 percent, KTM 21.6 percent, Kawasaki 12.4 percent and BMW 8.8 percent.

It was the Kawasaki Ninja 400 that sold highest in the road bike segment at 636 sales, achieving a 30.3 percent rise, followed by the newly-introduced Yamaha Tenere 700 (530), Harley-Davidson Street 500 (433), Yamaha MT07L (382) and Honda CB125E (377).

Detailed results (Top 10)

Detailed results (Comparison report)

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

Competition, Motocross, News

Dirt bike sales soar in Australia through second quarter

Leave a comment

News 8 Jul 2020

Dirt bike sales soar in Australia through second quarter

Section: General

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

Image: Supplied.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Detailed results (Top 10)

Detailed results (Comparison report)

Source: MotoOnline.com.au