Tag Archives: News

Competition, Motocross, News

Champion Sexton undergoes surgery following pit bike incident

Leave a comment

Image: Supplied.

Defending 250SX East champion Chase Sexton has undergone surgery after breaking his collarbone in a pit bike incident last weekend.

The Geico Honda entry, who was understood to be targeting an attack at the 250SX West championship, will now defend his crown on the east coast as a result.

Sexton has stated he’ll be sidelined for a three-week period, bringing his return to riding around the time of Anaheim’s Monster Energy Supercross season-opener on 4 January.

“Unfortunately I had a mishap on Sunday riding 110s that led me to break my collarbone,” Sexton said in a statement. “This feels like deja vu to last year, but I’ve already gotten surgery to fix it and we are on the mend now. Off the bike for three weeks and then back at it trying to defend the 1E this year.”

Sexton signed a unique deal for 2020 and beyond, which will see him race the 250SX East championship with Geico Honda before graduating to the premier class with Team Honda HRC for the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship.


Source: MotoOnline.com.au

Competition, Motorcycle News, News

Alleged positive anti-doping test provisionally suspends Iannone

Leave a comment

Image: Russell Colvin.

The FIM has revealed MotoGP World Championship contender Andrea Iannone has been provisionally suspended after allegedly returning a positive sample for a banned substance under the World Anti-Doping Code.

The Aprilia Racing rider is understood to have returned an adverse analytical finding of a non-specified substance under Section 1.1.a) Exogenous Anabolic Androgenic Steroids (AAS) of the 2019 Prohibited List.

The reading was collected in a urine sample from him at an in-competition test carried out by the FIM at the penultimate round of MotoGP in Sepang, Malaysia, at the beginning of November.

Iannone has the right to request and attend the analysis of his B sample, while his provisional suspension comes into immediate effect from 17 December 2019.

He is banned from participating in any motorcycling competition or activity until further notice. Under Article 7.9.3.2 of the World Anti-Doping Code, the premier class race winner may request lifting of his provisional suspension. Iannone has since made a statement on social media, indicating he’ll request and attend the analysis of his B sample.

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

Motorcycle News, News

Oxley Highway to reopen for one lane

Leave a comment

The Oxley Highway will reopen to one lane of traffic by this weekend under strict speed management with the support of escort vehicles.

A 10km section between Ralfes Trail and the Gingers Creek store will be open to one lane of traffic with alternate flow under the control of escort vehicles from Transport for NSW.

Reopen Oxley Highway
One-lane section

The decision is a welcome relief for popular riders’ rest stop Gingers Creek Roadhouse owner Gary Hartas.

His cafe has been closed to business since the highway was shut by bushfires on 25 October 2019 between Walcha and Long Flat. He also lost the accommodation building to the bushfires.

Support fire-ravaged Gingers Creek rider cafe
Accommodation destroyed

Staff member Tiohnee Ford started a GoFundMe page to support Gary while no income has been coming in. It has raised more than $7000.

Highway reopen

Oxley highway work bushfire
Oxley in flames

While the highway will reopen, repair work is still underway and expected to continue for several weeks into 2020 under traffic control.

Riders should expect lengthy delays, which means sitting at lights for some time in the heat, so take water with you.

However, don’t be deterred. It is still worth it to ride the rest of the highway and to support Gary’s cafe which is a popular rest stop for riders.

These traffic arrangements will operate 24 hours a day and remain in place until the highway is fully reopen.

Traffic control and a reduced speed limit will be in place in other sections for the safety of workers and motorists.

As there is a risk of rocks or trees falling onto the road surface in the event of high winds or significant rainfall, Transport for NSW may close the highway again at short notice.

Oxley highway work bushfire
Burn-out retaining walls

Many roads in NSW and Queensland remain closed due to bushfires and subsequent damage.

The Cunningham Highway in South East Queensland, did temporarily reopen, but it has closed again.

For more information on road closures, click on these: Queensland Traffic, NSW Live Traffic App, WA Main Roads, South Australia, Tasmania and VicRoads.

You can also check the various state fire services websites by going to this central MYFIREWATCH service, then click on the state/territory.

Bushfire survival guide:

By all means riders should head out into the country to spend their much-needed dollar in drought-stricken areas, but they should also be alert to the bushfire conditions.

The best survival tip for a bushfire is to avoid it.

Apart from the above, you can also check the automobile clubs’ websites for the relevant state, as well as transport department traffic sites.

Try searching the Facebook pages of local fire and police pages.

Of course, you can use your eyes to see where the smoke is and use your commonsense to gauge wind direction and potential fire direction.

However,  don’t think you can outrun a bushfire. They can spread faster than any motorcycle can go, often jumping roadways, reducing your chance of survival.

Bushfires Harley Softail

Follow directions

It is not only stupid, but also unlawful to disobey a police or emergency services direction.

If you are told not to go down a road or there is a roadblock, you must not got that way.

The same goes for flood situations.

Don’t start a bushfire

Take notice of total fire ban signs and warnings as you don’t want to start a bushfire.

Fines are hefty and police have been severe in punishing offenders. Don’t expect a good-natured warning!

Riders should also be aware they can accidentally start a fire by parking their bike on dry grass or leaves.

Firefighters say about 40% of all bushfires are accidentally started by humans dropping cigarette butts, campfires, discarding bottles, sparks from machinery and motorcycles.

The catalytic convertor, which is often underneath, is the hottest part of your bike and can easily spark a fire.

Adventure riders who travel off road should take special care.Bushfires BMW R 1200 GS

Caught in a bushfire

If you are caught in a bushfire, your phone (or EPIRB, beacon, etc) will be your best friend.

Work out where you are exactly and then contact police and emergency services to give them your location.

Park your bike behind a solid structure to block as much heat as you can.

Turn off your bike’s engine, but leave the lights and/or hazard lights on.

Stay near your bike, but not too close in case it goes up in flames.

Try to get down low, near a water source or below the level of the fire as they move faster uphill.

Also try to get upwind from a fire.

Dangers of bushfires

Dehydration motorcycle gear Riders dies of dehydration in heatwave dust storm

Riders are more vulnerable than motorists in cars because they have no air conditioning to regulate air and temperature.

The biggest dangers for riders are from smoke inhalation, low visibility and eye irritation from smoke.

Carry water with you to flush out sore eyes and to ensure you stay hydrated.

Tips to avoid dehydration in a heatwave:

  1. Don’t drink too much alcohol the night before a ride. It has a diuretic effect which means it causes you to urinate more water than you take in which means you are losing fluid. And you can’t counteract that by drinking lots of water because most of it will go out in your urine. Obviously, don’t drink alcohol while you are riding!
  2. Start drinking water as soon as you wake and keep sipping water right up until you get on your bike. It takes about half an hour for water to reach your muscles. Guzzling water just before a ride is not good as it can make your stomach to cramp. The Royal Flying Doctor Service which has attended dehydrated riders in the Outback, recommends carrying 10 litres of water per day! Read their Outback riding tips here.
  3. Wear ventilated motorcycle clothing. Leathers may protect you better in a crash, but they create a “microclimate” which impairs your ability to lose heat. As a result you will produce more sweat to decrease your core temp. Instead, wear a flow-through jacket. There are heaps of options on the market. Make sure they have vents in the back so the air flows through. Also, loosen the sleeves so you get plenty of air on your wrists which have a lot of blood vessels close to the skin to effectively cool you down. However, be aware that a flow-through jacket cools you down because it is drying the sweat off your skin which can lead to dehydration. A set of Ventz up your sleeve will also keep you cool as air flows up your arms.However, don’t be fooled by your level of coolness as ventilation can also cause you to loose more water through evaporation. So you still need to keep drinking plenty of water.

    Ventz motorcycle jacket vents - pain heatwave dust storm
    BUY Ventz motorcycle jacket vents NOW

  4. Don’t be tempted to remove your jacket in the heat! Exposed skin may feel cooler, but that’s because the sweat is evaporating quicker, but that is just making you more dehydrated. And while your skin feels cool, you’ll be tricked into staying in the sun longer which leads to sunburn. That also leads to dehydration because your body needs water to repair and renew damaged skin.
  5. Get a Camelbak or other brand of water-dispensing unit so you can continue to take small sips of water while you are riding. I’ve seen riders on GoldWings and other big tourers with cup holders so they can take slurps from a water bottle. That’s obviously not as safe as the hands-free Camelback option, but anything is better than nothing. Some people don’t like Camelbaks because the water gets hot, but the temperature of the water doesn’t affect dehydration.Camelbak reduces dehydration heatwave dust storm
  6. Stop more often than usual and hang out in the shade or in an air-conditioned cafe. Since you are drinking lots of fluids, you will probably need to stop anyway!
  7. While you’re stopped, have a coffee, but take it easy. No need to swear off your favourite caramel latte, but avoid excess coffee. That also goes for caffeinated drinks such as Red Bull. High levels of caffeine have a diuretic effect just like alcohol.
  8. While having a coffee break, avoid having too many sweet cakes, donuts and muffins. Sugar can dehydrate you if it gets to very high levels in your blood. This can happen if you are a diabetic, take certain medications or have an infection or some organ diseases. Sugar causes your kidneys to produce more urine to eliminate the sugar, leading to dehydration. Likewise, don’t drink too many sugary drinks. Best to stick to plain water, real fruit juices with no added sugar or drinks such as Gatorade that replace salts and minerals lost in sweat.
  9. We’ve talked a lot about urine and it’s important that you monitor the colour. It should be a straw colour. If it’s too dark, you are dehydrated.
  10. Sweat also depletes your body of sodium and if it becomes too low, it can cause many of the same symptoms as dehydration. The average diet probably has enough sodium, but it’s good to have a little bit of salt on your meals or drink sports drinks that have a sodium supplement. However, beware of sports drinks with caffeine and sugar.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

Segway Apex Electric Sportbike Concept Revealed in Beijing

Leave a comment

Last month, personal mobility company Segway entered the powersports segment with an electric dirt bike and a range of off-road four-wheelers. What was missing at the time was a streetbike.

Well, Segway (and its parent company, Ninebot) has plans to fill that gap, revealing today an electric sportbike concept called the “Segway Apex.” Details are sparse, with Ninebot only claiming the Apex can “achieve a maximum speed of 125 mph and acceleration from 0-60 mph within only 2.9 seconds, making it the fastest product developed by Segway-Ninebot ever.”

Ninebot also calls the Apex a “super scooter,” though that may be a translation quirk for the Chinese company. You only have to look at the Apex to know it’s more motorcycle than scooter with its upside-down fork, dual front brakes and Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa tires.

We can also confirm that Segway has filed a trademark application in Europe for “Segway E-Sportbike,” though in our opinion, Apex is a much better name.

Ninebot also revealed an electric scooter concept, though it wasn’t presented under the Segway brand.

Begin Press Release

Segway-Ninebot Reveals Electric Bikes, Completing its Intelligent Mobility Product Lines

Segway-Ninebot unveiled its brand-new electric bikes in a launch event held in Beijing, China. Over 700 guests and journalists gathered for the debut of two smart scooters, Ninebot eMoped and Ninebot eScooter, along with two conceptual models, Ninebot eScooter T and Segway Apex.

“Three years ago, Segway-Ninebot decided to redefine the industry with innovations in intelligence. Today, we are introducing our electric bikes with ‘true intelligence’, with the goal of providing our customers with cutting-edge technologies and smart functions that make their rides more comfortable and convenient”, said Luke Gao, the Chairman and CEO of Segway-Ninebot.

Ninebot eScooter and eMoped have multiple intelligent features. Ninebot AirLock keyless system and Ninebot RideyGo can lock and unlock the vehicle automatically. The smart Battery Management System enables intelligent parallel connections, fast charging and state of health (SoH) check, and provides 20 protections for the battery, such as short circuit protection. Aided by GPS, BDS and base stations, you can keep track of your eScooter and eMoped at any time, accurately detect the abnormalities and get instant messages to your phone. In addition, the eScooter and eMoped utilize over-the-air updates to wirelessly upgrade the functionality.

“Not all devices that connect to apps are intelligent. Truly intelligent products should be easy to operate and even able to do the operations automatically”, commented Cid Wang, co-founder and President of Segway-Ninebot.

Ninebot eScooter: Go Smarter, Ride Farther

Ninebot eScooter is a smart electric scooter that can meet mid-to-long distance urban mobility needs. It features a vigorous power train. The top model, E200P, is able to achieve a maximum speed of 62mph and acceleration from 0-25 mph within 3 seconds, with a range of 125 miles under dual-battery mode. Large disc brakes, front and rear, and Maxxis semi-slick sport tubeless tires give it outstanding controllability and road adaptability.

The structure of eScooter has been optimized to offer a more comfortable and steady riding experience. Other features include large seat trunks that can easily fit a full-size helmet, light-sensing intelligent matrix LED headlights, backlight spectrum interactive dashboard, and high water resistance to adapt to various weather conditions.

The eScooter also provides customization options, where customers can choose from 100,000 body panel colors and seat cushion options to build their own dream vehicle.

Ninebot eMoped: the Halo Smart Electric Bike

Ninebot eMoped is a chic electric bike featuring a colorful appearance and various smart functions. It is quite compact at 5.25 ft in length and weighing only 121 lbs, making it easy for riders to even transport it in an elevator up to their apartments. The newly designed lithium battery can be removed and taken out single-handedly. Customers are also able to customize their eMopeds with up to 100,000 color combinations to choose from.

It features a 48V brushless motor, with a rated capacity of 400w and maximum torque of 40 lb-ft, enabling it to achieve top speed of 16mph. Three models of the eMoped come with different range options: 22-28  miles,  34-40 miles, and 47-53 miles.

Other features include user-friendly digital dashboard, simple operations that could be controlled with just 2 buttons, and a reliable braking system with front disc brakes and rear drum brakes.

Two Concept Scooters: Ninebot eScooter T and Segway Apex

Two concept scooters were also presented in today’s launch demonstrating Segway-Ninebot’s R&D strength and its vision for futuristic smart city transportations.

Ninebot eScooter T has the same appearance and specifications as Ninebot eScooter E100, with additional features of self-balancing and remote control. Customers can control the scooter with a smartphone app and tell it to travel to designated points, such as a parking garage. It won’t fall down even if it gets struck during the tour.

Segway Apex, on the other hand, is a super scooter that can achieve a maximum speed of 125 mph and acceleration from 0-60 mph within only 2.9 seconds, making it the fastest product developed by Segway-Ninebot ever.

Recently Announced

On November 5th, 2019, Company unveiled its first electric dirt bike, namely “Segway Dirt eBike” at The SEMA Show, Las Vegas in the U.S., which is currently available for pre-order on Indiegogo (See the related link below). On the same date, Segway announced three new off-road vehicles including ATV, UTV, and SSV, at EICMA in Milan, Italy, demonstrating a strategic move into a new market segment of powersports.

About Segway-Ninebot

Segway-Ninebot is a global enterprise in the fields of intelligent short-distance transportation and service robots. In 1999, Segway was established in Bedford, NH, the US, which is the world leader in commercial-grade, electric, self-balancing personal transportation. Ninebot is an intelligent short-distance transportation equipment operator integrating R&D, production, sales, and service, established in Beijing, 2012.

As Segway and Ninebot completed their strategic combination in 2015, Segway-Ninebot came into being. Today, the company’s businesses are all around the world and have subsidiaries in Beijing, Seattle, Bedford, Amsterdam, Seoul, Singapore, Munich, Changzhou, and Tianjin, selling products in more than 80 countries and regions. With world-renowned intellectual property, Segway-Ninebot will create more products that will lead the users and the entire industry into the future.

 

The post Segway Apex Electric Sportbike Concept Revealed in Beijing appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

Motorcycle News, News

New Product Spotlight: Leatt 5.5 Flexlock Boots

Leave a comment

The South African company continues to broaden its product range with the all-new Leatt 5.5 Flexlock Boots.

Begin Press Release: 

Moto 5.5 FlexLock Boots

Leatt presents the Next Step in Premium Protective Gear

CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA, December 12, 2019 – Leatt has finally released the long-awaited ALL-NEW 5.5 FlexLock Boots as part of their Twenty/Twenty GPX range. When it comes to your riding kit, a quality pair of boots is one of the top pieces of gear you can invest in. As key points of contact to your bike, it’s essential that your feet, as well as your ankles and shins, stay comfortable and protected.

Leatt 5.5 Flexlock Boots

Three years of development and testing with our pro athletes from all over the world has resulted in the creation of the exceptional 5.5 FlexLock boot. A real head-turner when it comes to looks and style, the boots are available in white and black, red and blue, and plain black.

Leatt 5.5 Flexlock Boots

When riding your bike hard, the superior durability and support provided by Leatt’s brand-new 5.5 FlexLock boots will be evident. Featuring a SlideLock system for an outstanding first-class fit and a low-profile toebox for easy gear shifting, these boots have all the features and benefits any rider will ever need.

Designed to optimize grip and maneuverability for landing those big jumps, while staying connected to your bike. CE tested and certified, the interior is cushioned with impact foam for a protective yet snug, soft and comfortable feel. An incredible FlexLock system that’s proven to reduce ankle forces by up to 37% and knee forces by up to 35% upon impact when compared to an industry leading competitor boot.

Leatt 5.5 Flexlock Boots

Extensive research, advanced design and high-tech materials make these boots the next step in premium protective gear. Leatt is thrilled to now offer head-to-toe protection!

Strap into a pair of ALL-NEW Leatt 5.5 FlexLock boots for fluid, seamless and confident movement, as you shrug off dirt, debris and impact with ease. Learn more at www.Leatt.com.

US retail $389.99 / EU retail €389.00 / UK retail £330.00

Leatt 5.5 Flexlock Boots
Leatt 5.5 Flexlock Boots
Leatt 5.5 Flexlock Boots

 

Shop for the Leatt 5.5 Flexlock Boots here

We are committed to finding, researching, and recommending the best products. We earn commissions from purchases you make using the retail links in our product reviews. Learn more about how this works.

The post New Product Spotlight: Leatt 5.5 Flexlock Boots appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

News

These Are The Best Small Standard Motorcycles For Beginners And Experienced Riders

Leave a comment

Small-bore bikes are everywhere these days, and small-bore standards are available from many of the major manufacturers. These are sub-500cc bikes designed with upright ergos, neutral ride positions, and mid-mount controls, designed to be effective in just about any street riding scenario. This segment is ideal for new riders looking for cost-effective, approachable bikes. And as the available options grow, features get more and more sophisticated, making many of these machines amenable to riders with more experience as well. Below are seven of our favorite small-bore standards currently available, each one a fine choice for riders seeking comfort, versatility, and affable manners on the road.

2020 Ducati Scrambler Sixty2

The Ducati Scrambler Sixty2 has unmistakable style.
The Ducati Scrambler Sixty2 has unmistakable style.Ducati

The Ducati Scrambler line is immensely popular and includes an entry-level option for those not yet comfortable with the idea of an 803cc machine. The Scrambler Sixty2 is a gentler choice, powered by a 399cc air-cooled L-twin. It retains the hip look of the line and has ergos that are great for riders of all sizes. The Showa fork and Kayaba rear shock (fully adjustable) provide a smooth ride and its 403-pound weight is easy to handle on the go. “You become almost instantly comfortable with the little machine even in low gears,” our reviewer explained when the bike first debuted back in 2017. It’s a little spendy compared to the other bikes on the list at $7,995, but it’s worth the cost if you’re looking to get a well-built, eye-catching, easy-to-handle motorcycles.

2020 Honda CB300R ABS

For a lightweight, mild-mannered ride experience, the Honda CB300R is unmatched.
For a lightweight, mild-mannered ride experience, the Honda CB300R is unmatched.Honda

Honda’s CB300R ABS is a 286cc single-cylinder standard that unites modern streetfighter aesthetics with performance capabilities squarely aimed at new riders. The engine produces mild, easy-to-manage power, and the bike utilizes a clutch that’s smooth and reliable. It’s a feather-light machine that tips the scales at 317 pounds (with ABS) and it handles effortlessly. It’s got a decent suspension package for an entry-level bike and provides a notably smooth ride on slightly rough roads. It also has a cockpit well-suited to the full-size rider, so even if you’re coming to bikes later in life, you won’t feel cramped on the 300R.

2020 Husqvarna Svartpilen 401

Ride the future on the Husqvarna Svartpilen 401.
Ride the future on the Husqvarna Svartpilen 401.Husqvarna

The Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 is the most distinctive-looking bike on this list, blending standard ergos with unique lines to make a bike that will turn heads wherever you go. It’s got a 373cc single-cylinder engine that puts out 44 hp, trellis frame, WP suspension, ByBre braking components, Bosch ABS, and loads of additional upgrade items to make it truly unique. Its road-going chops are enough to keep even experienced riders satisfied.

2020 Kawasaki Z400 ABS

New riders and experienced riders alike will find joy on the Kawasaki Z400 ABS.
New riders and experienced riders alike will find joy on the Kawasaki Z400 ABS.Kawasaki

The latest Kawasaki Z400 ABS brings you into the 21st century with its naked sport aesthetic and modern refinements aimed to maximize usability. It’s powered by a 399cc parallel-twin engine, has ABS, a slipper clutch, and well-balanced mass resulting in a machine that’s extraordinarily easy to handle. “Every component of the Z400 conveys lightness,” one reviewer claimed during his first ride aboard the 2019 edition. And yet, its 43 hp and 24 pound-feet of torque provide a remarkably spirited ride. For new riders, this well-mannered machine provides an ideal entry point to the world of motorcycles. For more-experienced riders this bike can provide an exhilarating experience when pushed to its full potential.

2020 KTM 390 Duke

The KTM 390 Duke is one of our favorites in the segment.
The KTM 390 Duke is one of our favorites in the segment.Jeff Allen

The KTM 390 Duke shares the same engine architecture as the Svartpilen 401, but has been around long enough to establish itself as a leader in the category. The mill provides a spirited ride and its lightweight build makes it a breeze to handle. Adjustable WP suspension, ByBre brakes, and Bosch ABS contribute to its flickable, composed manners on commutes or when ripping in the twisties. Its cockpit was a little cramped for taller riders during this naked bike comparison, but the positive note about the ergos is that they provide a racier feel. When compared against the Vitpilen 401 and CB300R, the KTM “offers the best overall bang for the buck.”

2019 Suzuki TU250X

The Suzuki TU250X embodies the nostalgic UJM aesthetic.
The Suzuki TU250X embodies the nostalgic UJM aesthetic.Suzuki

The 2019 Suzuki TU250X is a true beginner’s bike. The 249cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled motorcycle carries on the UJM tradition with its classic styling, and its mechanical simplicity is great for riders who are just learning the ropes in the garage. It’s not going to win any races, but its smooth power delivery, stable feel, and forgiving transmission are confidence-inspiring to less-experienced riders. The TU250X is by no means the most exciting small-bore standard on this list, but as a neutral, approachable machine it represents the core idea of what this segment is all about.

2020 Yamaha MT-03

The Yamaha MT-03 is new to the States in 2020.
The Yamaha MT-03 is new to the States in 2020.Yamaha

Yamaha has enjoyed a lot of success in the standard segment with its MT line, and in 2020 adds a small-bore MT-03 to the roster in the States. It shares the same 321cc parallel twin as the YZF-R3, which has become a favorite platform in the small-bore segment for us over the years. It’s a balanced engine that provides a surprisingly sporty ride while maintaining the fuel economy and manageable delivery riders expect from the entry-level ranks. It also provides some upspec pieces compared to others in this realm, including USK KYB forks, and preload adjustable rear shock.

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

Competition, Motorcycle News, News

Scott joins Staring at Kawasaki BCperformance in 2020

Leave a comment

Image: Russell Colvin.

Kawasaki BCperformance has revealed Glenn Scott will join the outfit alongside team regular Bryan Staring for the 2020 Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK).

Scott, a long-time Kawasaki-supported rider, showed promising form at the beginning of the 2019 ASBK series before suffering season-ending injuries halfway through the year at Morgan Park.

“After a large accident forcing my 2019 season to a grinding stop, it brings me great pleasure to have such an amazing opportunity presented to me for the 2020 ASBK season,” Scott explained. “BCperformance has proven they are a top running team in ASBK and I am excited to be part of their professional outfit for 2020.

“Although we are competitors it will be great to work alongside Bryan Staring, having an experienced and strong teammate will push me and help me build my experience on the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR.

“I would like to personally thank Kawasaki Motors Australia and BCperformance for this incredible opportunity, the Ninja ZX-10RR is an amazing Superbike and I consider myself very lucky to have the opportunity to take it to its limits on track for the 2020 season. I would also like to thank my supporters and personal sponsors for continuing their support into the 2020 ASBK Season.”

Western Australian Staring will embark on his third season with the BCperformance squad, coming off a strong campaign this year that saw him dominate The Bend’s third stop of the series.

“I couldn’t be happier to continue my partnership with Kawasaki BCperformance in the 2020 Australian Superbike Championship,” said Staring. “This will be the third-consecutive season with the team/manufacturer combination that is growing, learning and improving each year. I feel very well supported from both Kawasaki Australia and the BCperformance team.

“We have a great motorcycle in the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR. This race bike is a dream package to work with because the engine is incredibly strong, it handles well, and the electronic system is completely functional and reliable. I believe in 2020 we can surpass our previous best performances given our growing experience with this motorcycle and the top components the team utilise.

“The fantastic personnel and culture within the team provide a great working environment for myself and one that the supporters can easily enjoy on race weekends. This is the springboard I will use to succeed in the 2020 Australian Superbike Championship and I am very grateful to be continuing together.”

Team owner Kelvin Reilly added: “I am super happy with our line-up for the 2020 Australian Superbike Championship. It’s a pleasure to work with Bryan and I believe the lessons learned during 2019 will make us a stronger more consistent team in 2020.

“Securing Glenn was a big part of our strategy and he showed good speed during the past season and believe he will work well in our team. I am also grateful to Kawasaki Motors Australia for the continuing support in this project as the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR is a formidable machine along with the Dunlop tyres and Ktech suspension we have an excellent package to succeed.

“As our working relationship gets stronger and stronger every year, it is also a pleasure to work with Kawasaki Motors Australia and I must thank them for their continued support along with all our other sponsors who will be announced shortly.”

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

Competition, Motorcycle News, News

Single rider strategy forces Parkes to sit out Sepang EWC

Leave a comment

Image: Supplied.

A triumphant single rider strategy for YART Yamaha at the 8 Hours of Sepang ultimately saw Australian Broc Parkes sit out the second stop of the 2019/2020 FIM Endurance World Championship (EWC).

The rain-affected event saw the race reduced to under three hours, and with Parkes scheduled to ride in the final 30 minutes, it was decided to leave Niccolo Canepa out on a drying track and bring the victory home. The same decision was made earlier in the race when fill-in Karel Hanika was set to take the reigns.

“It was shorter than expected because of the weather, but no less exhausting for that,” said YART team manager Mandy Kainz. “We had a problem with the bike in the early stages of the race, but Niccolo did an incredible job to fight his way through to the front in difficult conditions and without any electronic rider aids.

“At the first pit stop it was tight at the front of the race, so we decided to keep Niccolo on the bike, rather than lose time while Karel got used to the conditions. We made the same decision at the final pit stop, opting to stick with Niccolo rather than putting Broc on the bike for the final 30 minutes on a damp but drying track.

“It was the correct decision and it paid dividends for us in the end. So, thanks to the team and the riders for a fantastic job – this win puts us back in the game as far as the championship is concerned. Finally, I wish Marvin a speedy recovery and I look forward to seeing him back on the bike, and hopefully on the podium, in Le Mans.”

YART Yamaha is now ranked fourth in the championship standings as the EWC heads to Le Mans on 18-19 April 2020 for round three.

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

Competition, Motorcycle News, News

Illness sidelines Hook in 8 Hours of Sepang

Leave a comment

Image: Supplied.

Australian Josh Hook was forced to sit out round two of the 2019/2020 FIM Endurance World Championship (EWC) at the 8 Hours of Sepang after being struck down with an illness.

The F.C.C. TSR Honda France rider revealed he suffered a severe case of influenza, electing to sit-out the weather-affected event in Malaysia.

The TSR squad, who led the race at stages, finished 13th in the standings after a pair of crashes by Mike di Meglio.

“Tough old day here in Sepang,” said Hook. “I came down with a severe case of influenza causing me to be sidelined. The race was shortened to three hours due to bad weather conditions.

“We were leading with one hour to go, and a crash put us back to 28th. The team managed to make it back into the points, finishing up 13th.”

The next stop on the EWC calendar is scheduled for 18-19 April, where Le Mans will host the 24 Heures Motos.

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

Competition, Motocross, News

WESS runner-up Gomez re-signs with factory Husqvarna

Leave a comment

Image: Supplied.

World Enduro Super Series (WESS) runner-up Alfredo Gomez has re-signed with Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing in a multi-year deal that will see him through the 2021 season.

The Spaniard was a regular front-runner in all eight rounds of the 2019 WESS championship, finishing just shy of the crown behind Manuel Lettenbichler (KTM).

“I’m really happy to continue with Husqvarna Motorcycles for another two years,” said Gomez. “We’ve grown together a lot during the last few years and I have a really strong and enjoyable relationship with everyone in the team – in a way it has become like an extended part of my family.

“I’m really proud of what we achieved during 2019 by finishing second overall in the WESS enduro world championship and always fighting for the victory. When I seriously injured my leg, they stood by me. There was never any pressure to return to the bike early, they just wanted me to get better.

“I feel like that was when our bond became even tighter than it already was. I’m looking forward to what lies ahead during these next two years and in particular 2020. We’ve shown ourselves as title contenders with the TE 300i and for certain our goal is to become world champions together.”

The opening round of the 2020 WESS season is scheduled for 8-10 May for the Extreme XL Lagares in Portugal.


Source: MotoOnline.com.au

Bringing you the Best Motorcycle News from Around the Web!