Tag Archives: News

Motorcycle News, News

Laidlaw’s Harley-Davidson Takes Battle Of The Kings Glory

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Laidlaw Harley-Davidson wins against global competition.

Begin press release:

Following an intense global competition, including national and international heats, Laidlaw’s Harley-Davidson has today been crowned Global Custom Kings and overall winners of the 2019 Battle of the Kings.

Laidlaw’s Harley-Davidson’s winning entry, the stunning “FXGTS Coast Glide” is based on a Harley-Davidson Sport Glide model and has been extensively customized to create a truly unique ride. The bike is a throwback to FXRT styling with a Southern California twist, paying tribute to the Pacific Coast Highway and the Southern California influence on modern performance cruisers. As a concept, it covers a lot of ground. As a design, it’s far more than the sum of its parts. The team wanted full functionality but with a strong California flair.

Battle of the Kings is the world’s largest dealer custom build-off competition. The competition showcases the very best in customization capability and the creativity of the Custom Kings who can be found at every Harley-Davidson dealership globally. In 2018, the Custom King crown was taken by debut-entrants Harley-Davidson Bangkok with their Street Bob-based build “The Prince”.

For 2019 any model in the Harley-Davidson range could be selected as a base for the build (excluding Trike and CVO models) meaning dealers had more choice than ever before in order to create a title challenger. To further inspire the competition dealers had to choose from three style categories – Dirt, Chop and Race – for their build. The rules for the build were simple – 50 percent of the parts used must be genuine Harley-Davidson accessories and the customization budget was a maximum of 50 percent of the donor bike retail price.

The United States dealers added an extra dimension to their competition, inspiring the next generation of custom builders by teaming each build with a trade school, with students working alongside the dealership team to create and build their machine.

Grand final runners-up were Warr’s Harley-Davidson, The Crook (United Kingdom), Thunderbike Harley-Davidson, Roar (Germany), Calgary Harley-Davidson, Moonshine (Canada) and Harley-Davidson Queretaro, Joe Tracker (Mexico) – whose machines were all on display at EICMA for the tense final voting.

“Once again the global Harley-Davidson dealership community has excelled at demonstrating their custom leadership. This expertise is accessible at any Harley-Davidson dealership, allowing riders around the world to truly make their ride unique. Huge congratulations to all of our over 300 entries, the regional winners and finalists – and especially to our 2019 champions Laidlaw’s Harley-Davidson. A truly stunning build – and a worthy champion,” said Steve Lambert, International Marketing Director, Harley-Davidson.

For information on the Battle of the Kings contest visit: www.h-d.com/customkings



The post Laidlaw’s Harley-Davidson Takes Battle Of The Kings Glory appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

Motorcycle News, News

Leon Haslam Joining HRC World Superbike Effort In 2020

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Now the official Honda World Superbike team is complete, as Haslam joins Alvaro Bautista in hopes they can bring Team Red back to their former glory.

Begin press release:

Following yesterday’s 2020 Honda New Models Press Presentation, where the World Premiere unveiling of the sensational new CBR1000RR-R was the highlight of event, this morning the 2020 HRC Teams and Riders Presentation took place in the presence of Managing Officer, Chief Officer, Motorcycle Operations of Honda Motor Co. Noriaki Abe, President and Representative Director, Honda Racing Corporation Yoshishige Nomura.

Made even more special by the celebration this year of the 60th anniversary of Honda’s racing activities, the presentation once again brought together riders of the official HRC teams competing in the top motorsport championships worldwide – including the 2019 World Championship-winning triple of Marc Marquez (MotoGP), Tim Gajser (MXGP), and Toni Bou (Trial).

It was the perfect stage for Mr. Abe to announce the signing of Leon Haslam to partner recently announced Alvaro Bautista in the strong line-up of the HRC’s Official WorldSBK team in 2020.

“We will join WorldSBK with our new CBR1000RR-R with HRC factory team”, Mr. Abe commented. “We are happy to announce that we just fixed the rider line-up, with Leon Haslam becoming team-mate with Alvaro Bautista. I expect to see our WorldSBK riders fighting for victory”.

“For me to get the opportunity to be back with Honda and, most importantly, as an official rider with HRC back in the championship with a factory team, is like a dream come true” said Leon Haslam. “It’s so exciting to be involved in the project and already I’m thinking about when I can ride the bike and get to Phillip Island, one of my favourite tracks, for the first race. I can’t wait to ride the CBR1000RR-R. A new bike means that we’re looking at a big challenge of course, but the project is extremely professional, and we all know what Honda and HRC are capable of. What they have achieved in the racing world speaks for itself. It’s really a fantastic opportunity for me, and I’m ready to give it my all, for the team, the company and all our fans around the world”.

Full details of the HRC Official WorldSBK team will be announced at the team launch before the start of the 2020 WorldSBK season.





The post Leon Haslam Joining HRC World Superbike Effort In 2020 appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

Motorcycle News, News

Walcha Motorcycle Weekend revs up

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The Walcha Motorcycle Weekend revs up from tomorrow (15-17 November 2019) to replace the Freak Show Festival of Motorcycles and national Harley Owners Group (HOG) rally which were axed at the last minute.

Among the many highlights will be the chance for riders to hear Harley-Davidson’s LiveWire electric motorcycle and even go for a “demo ride” on their Jumpstart Experience.

demo ride online walcha
Harley offers non-licensed people a demo ride with their JumpStart

Harley-Davidson Australia spokesman Keith Waddell says they have been “working closely with Walcha Council to support their plans to host riders with music and food options over the weekend”.

The company will set up at the Walcha Showground and will run demo rides over the weekend.

Meanwhile, he says the liquidators of the two axed events are “working through the required processes on asset and refund retrieval for all involved”.

“As this process may take some time, Harley-Davidson will refund the $99 HOG ticket cost directly to members,” he says.

“All HOG ticket holders have been contacted directly to arrange those refunds.”

The liquidators have not yet provided any details on refunds for Freak Show ticket holders.

Walcha Motorcycle Weekend program

There is a host of other entertainment across the three days, including stunt shows, a rodeo, guided rides, Harley demo rides, a Steampunk motorcycle gallery, markets, music, food stalls, a billy cart derby show and shine and more.

Click here for details.

Of course, one of the main attractions is simply getting there by riding Thunderbolts Way and/or the magnificent Oxley Highway.

All accommodation in town is fully booked so Council has organised for camping at the Oxley Sportsground.

There will be some conditions due to current water restrictions.

Local not-for-profit groups will provide basic catering onsite and clean-up services.

Walcha Royal Cafe owner Toni Keable says they will continue with the entertainment they had previously planned before the events were axed.

Oxley highway hillclimb
Toni and Brad Keable of the Royal Cafe, Walcha

“People can be assured that this weekend will definitely go ahead,” she says.

“Everyone is positive and we’re not going to let this opportunity to showcase the town slip through our fingers.”Walcha

Liquidation

The original twin events were organised by Inside Line Events International which was behind the aborted TT events planned for either the Oxley Highway or the Sunshine Coast.

Freak Show Festival organiser David Rollins sent us this formal statement:

The organisers of the Freak Show Festival of motorcycles regret to inform that the event has been forced into voluntary liquidation due to difficulties maintaining ongoing support from sponsors

The organisers are personally and financially devastated by this outcome, having poured considerable money into the event as well as time.

A liquidator has been appointed. All ticketing and trade enquires should be addressed to Wexted Pty Ltd, Level 12, 28 O’Connell Street, Sydney NSW 2000. E: [email protected]

He says there is “not much I can add to it for legal reasons”.

More than 1000 tickets had been sold and they claimed they were expecting about 5000 to attend.

Freak show

The Freak Show Festival was to include a flat track, a dirt hill climb, custom motorcycles, the Globe of Death, wheelies, stoppies and burnouts, a ride-in cinema playing motorcycle-themed movies, live music and food and beverages.

It was scheduled for one weekend after the Australian Motorcycle Festival (formerly the Sydney Moto Expo) in Wollongong from November 8-10.

The show and rally were also sponsored by NSW Tourism Department who expected it to deliver more than $1.7 million in visitor expenditure to the region.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

News

2021 Harley-Davidson Pan America Preview

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No other specs, or a price, have been offered as of now, but detailed prototype photos give lots of clues as to what to expect when the Pan America launches in the US toward the end of 2020. Just don’t make the mistake of calling it Harley’s “first” adventure bike, as that title goes to the MT-500 sold to the public in 1999 and 2000.

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

Motorcycle News, News

Kawasaki announces updates to selected 2020 models

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News 6 Nov 2019

Kawasaki announces updates to selected 2020 models

Section: General

Upgraded Z650, Z900 and Ninja 1000SX models for next year.

Image: Supplied.

Kawasaki Motors Australia has announced updates to its Z650, Z900 and Ninja 1000SX motorcycles for year model 2020.

The superbly balanced Z650 offers Sugomi performance and styling featuring a powerful engine with strong low-mid range torque in a lightweight chassis. The thorough attention given to ensure a high-quality fit & finish results in a machine that riders can be proud to own – an ideal ambassador for the Z brand.

Engine refinements contribute to cleaner emissions and increased mid-range torque, new tyres offer lighter handling, and a redesigned tandem seat offers increased passenger comfort.

As before, nimble handling and superb feedback are complemented by easy-to-manage power delivery and rider-friendly manoeuvrability, offering an ideal blend of sporty performance and everyday versatility designed to accommodate a wide range of riders.

Sharp new styling, highlighted by a new LED headlight and TFT instrumentation, gives this second generation Z650 an even stronger sugomi presence.The thorough attention given to ensure a high-quality fit and finish results in a machine that riders can be proud to own

Image: Supplied.

Updated for 2020, the Z900 maintains the ‘Exciting and Easy’ concept of its predecessor, while offering the next step in aggressive Z sugomi styling. A host of advanced new features – including integrated Riding Modes (combining newly added KTRC and Power modes), new TFT colour instrumentation, smartphone connectivity, all-LED lighting and cleaner emissions – to name a few.

The Z900’s engine and chassis are extremely well matched, making it an excellent all-rounder, able to cater to wide range of riders. Its rider-friendly character (further enhanced with the addition of traction control) is complemented by agile handling and a responsive throttle.

As before, the Z900 will happily accommodate city riding, but as a machine designed to deliver
maximum riding impact, it is most at home carving corners in the hills.

Image: Supplied.

The new Ninja 1000SX marks the fourth generation of a successful sport-touring platform that enables experienced riders to enjoy sporty riding and touring capability from a relaxed position.

Cleaner emissions with the same great performance, sportier, more dynamic new styling featuring a single-sided muffler and all-LED lighting, increased seat comfort for both rider and passenger, and a host of technology updates make this refined sport-tourer more attractive than ever.

All three bikes are anticipated to land in Australia during the early months of 2020, while pricing is still to be confirmed. For more information, visit www.kawasaki.com.au.

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

Competition, Motorcycle News, News

Norden 901 concept headlines Husqvarna EICMA presentation

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News 6 Nov 2019

Norden 901 concept headlines Husqvarna EICMA presentation

Section: Competition

Updated 2020 Husqvarna range showcased at the Milan show.

Image: Supplied.

Husqvarna Motorcycles showcased a selection of 2020 models during its presentation at EICMA, headlined by an exciting twin-cylinder Norden 901 concept adventure bike.

Forming Husqvarna Motorcycles’ view of an adventure-touring motorcycle, the Norden 901 concept is a dynamic, twin-cylinder motorcycle that features advanced rider ergonomics and high performance based on years of rally experience, in a distinctly modern design.

A versatile long-distance exploration concept, it delivers both outstanding street and offroad performance. Class-leading lightness and power delivery is set in a versatile and accessible package, precisely arranged to allow discerning riders uncompromised exploration possibilities.

Delivering effortless rideability and sensible, high-end modern equipment this motorcycle can be used on daily commutes, extended adventures and everything in between.

Image: Supplied.

The Vitpilen and Svartpilen 701, now in their third and second year of production respectively, receive new colours, trim, graphics and technical details that enhance the modern look of their ground-breaking designs.

With 75hp, the high-performance 692cc single-cylinder engine compliments the machines’ dynamic handling and exciting riding experience.

Weighing only 158kg and 161kg respectively without fuel, both motorcycles feature adjustable suspension and are further highlighted by new spoked wheels and CNC machined footrests. Both models are expected to arrive in Australia during the first quarter of next year.

Image: Supplied.

The Vitpilen and Svartpilen 401, with their strong and tractable 373cc, 44hp single-cylinder engines, are equally well suited to urban environments as they are to out-of-town riding, thanks to their dynamic chassis, accessible overall size and low weight.

For 2020, both models feature a new bolt-on subframe that has been extended by 40mm for improved pillion comfort, as well as a new, high quality paint finishes and graphics that highlight their progressive designs. Arrival for both bikes in Australia is slated for the final quarter of 2020.

On display at this year’s EICMA are also the 701 Supermoto and 701 Enduro models featuring the latest cutting-edge electronic rider aids. Cornering ABS, lean angle sensitive traction control, ride modes and easy shift are featured as standard and offer the highest levels of safety matched to the highest performance.

Image: Supplied.

Both models are extremely well-balanced, offering outstanding levels of agility and handling. The renowned, torquey, 74hp single-cylinder 692.7cc engine features ride-by-wire throttle, offering a perfectly linear power delivery. For the first time, the new machines will have their own unique progressive new graphics.

Bred from Husqvarna Motorcycles’ highly popular 701 Enduro, the brand new 701 Enduro LR (Long Range) shares the same advanced electronics as the 701 Enduro but offers additional touring capabilities for riders wanting to travel further. The LR version is expected to arrive in Australia during the second quarter of 2020, while standard Enduro and Supermoto are anticipated for arrival in the first quarter of next year.

Remaining a lightweight and nimble machine, the additional 12-litre auxiliary fuel tank increases the total fuel capacity to 25 litres, meaning a significantly bigger fuel range for endless enduro capability. For more information, visit www.husqvarna-motorcycles.com/au.

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

Motorcycle News, News

Aprilia uncovers 2020 RS 660 at EICMA

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News 6 Nov 2019

Aprilia uncovers 2020 RS 660 at EICMA

Section: General

New Supersport model accompanied by Tuono 660 concept bike.

Image: Supplied.

Aprilia has pulled the covers off its newly-introduced 2020 RS 660 at EICMA, while also unveiling a Tuono 660 concept bike.

Created around a totally new technical base defined by the 660 parallel twin comes a new generation of lightweight, high-performance bikes that are sophisticated in design. A return to the mid-sized engine, supported by the electronics and technology of the Aprilia Racing department, to rediscover the pleasure and joy of everyday riding.

The innovative concept behind the RS 660 project can be summed up by its excellent weight/power ratio that makes for enjoyable riding, whether relaxed or more sports-orientated – 169kg while boasting 100hp is the perfect formula for enjoyment on the road.

It is also a unique project from a technical standpoint, featuring a new frame and swingarm in lightweight aluminium, and a new high-performance parallel twin engine accessible to everyone.

Inherited from the unbeatable RSV4, the electronic equipment is top class and comprises a Ride-by-Wire throttle and a six-axis inertial platform for optimum operation of the APRC electronic aids.

It offers five riding modes designed to regulate the behaviour of the electronic controls for safety and fun during daily riding, dynamic riding on the road, and extreme riding on track.

RS 660 also stands out for its particularly advanced aerodynamics comprising a double fairing with aerodynamic appendage function to optimise stability at high speeds, effectively protecting both rider and passenger from the air pressure.

Image: Supplied.

The Tuono 660 concept best expresses the new concept of sports versatility introduced by Aprilia with the new family of motorcycles designed around the new 660cc twin-cylinder that is able to deliver 95hp.

In keeping with Aprilia tradition, the naked version is born from the RS 660. It features the same technical content and incomparable stand-out chassis, but with heightened road riding connotations, with a raised riding position on the large and wide handlebar.

The Tuono 660 concept is ideal for new riders, as it is also available in a 34kw version, but also for young motorcyclists moving up from smaller engine capacities and who seek a high-level naked sports bike, as its able to offer daily thrills and fun on the road and even support the rider during occasional track sessions.

Pricing and availability in Australia is still to be determined.

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

Competition, Motocross, News

Locations confirmed for 2020 MX Nationals championship

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News 6 Nov 2019

Locations confirmed for 2020 MX Nationals championship

Section: Competition

Seven-event season now official in addition to standalone Pro-Am round.

Image: Foremost Media.

The locations for the 2020 MX Nationals season have been confirmed, with the series officially set to host 10 rounds over seven stops, plus a standalone Pro-Am event that will include the opening round for the MXD category.

The championship will kick-off on 22 March at Appin in New South Wales before heading to Horsham in Victoria for the first of three double headers, scheduled on 4-5 April.

Round four of the series will once again be hosted in Victoria at Newry on 3 May, while Gympie in Queensland returns after a successful maiden event this year. It’s pencilled in for 24 May, with a lengthy break in the series to follow.

The iconic Conondale circuit in Queensland will host round six on return from the break on 28 June, while rounds seven and eight will take place at Maitland in New South Wales on 25-26 July.

The championship will conclude at Coolum in Queensland for rounds nine and 10, scheduled for 22-23 August. Popular venues Murray Bridge, Broadford, Wonthaggi, along with Moree, have been dropped for 2020.

The newly-introduced Pro-Am event will take place at Traralgon in Victoria on 22-23 February, and will be contested by the MXD, Women’s, Vets and Rookie classes. These classes, plus others, will act as support races at selected events throughout the season.

With the MXD championship commencing at the Pro-Am, the Under 19s category will finish up prior to Coolum’s finals at Maitland’s penultimate stop, allowing riders to feature as wildcards in the MX2 category at the season finale.

2020 MX Nationals calendar:
Rd1 – 22 March – Appin, New South Wales
Rds 2-3 – 4-5 April – Horsham, Victoria
Rd4 – 3 May – Newry, Victoria
Rd5 – 24 May – Gympie, Queensland
Rd6 – 28 June – Conondale, Queensland
Rds 7-8 – 25-26 July – Maitland, New South Wales
Rds 9-10 – 22-23 August – Coolum, Queensland

Source: MotoOnline.com.au

Competition, Motocross, News

Hayes hopeful unpredictable triple crown will boost title chances

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News 6 Nov 2019

Hayes hopeful unpredictable triple crown will boost title chances

Section: Competition

Serco Yamaha rider back to full fitness ahead of Wollongong.

Image: Foremost Media.

American import Jacob Hayes is hopeful the triple crown format that’s set to be rolled out at the next three rounds of the Australian Supercross Championship will boost his title chances, the unpredictable style of racing serving an opportunity for him to regain points after crashing out of Port Adelaide’s second stop.

The Serco Yamaha rider, who won the season-opener in Brisbane, had his title chances damaged in South Australia when suffered a concussion in the early stages of the main event saw him record a zero point score for the round.

Still in the title hunt as the series heads to Wollongong this Saturday for round three, Hayes sits 17 points leader and teammate Aaron Tanti (Serco Yamaha) in seventh position.

“There are no lingering side effects from it, I just banged myself up,” Hayes explained to MotoOnline.com.au. “I was able to take the week off and get back to it – I feel completely normal on the bike.

“From my understanding, we have the triple crown format for the next three rounds – with that, anything can happen, so I’m just going to do what I was always planning to do at every round – get good starts, be up front and give myself a chance to go for the win.

“I want to finish the season strong, and whatever happens, happens. I’m not out of the title yet, and it’s definitely a long shot after not scoring points at round two, but I’m going to come out swinging in the next three rounds and see where I end up.”

This weekend’s third round of the Australian Supercross Championship will run alongside the Australian Motorcycle Festival, which will take place at Lang Park on 9-10 November.


Source: MotoOnline.com.au

Competition, Motocross, News

Webster slated for Wollongong AUS Supercross return

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News 6 Nov 2019

Webster slated for Wollongong AUS Supercross return

Section: Competition

SX2 contender cleared to ride following practice crash injury.

Image: Foremost Media.

Penrite Pirelli CRF Honda Racing’s Kyle Webster will return to the 2019 Australian Supercross Championship this weekend in Wollongong after injury sidelined for Adelaide’s round two.

Webster, who had minimal preparation leading up the series after representing Team Australia at the 2019 Monster Energy FIM Motocross of Nations (MXoN), suffered a practice crash following the season-opener, where he partially collapsed both lungs.

The MX Nationals MX2 runner-up was cleared to ride last week and returned to riding his CRF250R, with the number 96 set to rejoin the SX2 grid this Saturday night at WIN Stadium.

“I’ll be racing this weekend,” Webster declared to MotoOnline.com.au. “I managed to do a couple of days on the bike this week, and I felt pretty good.

“I haven’t had the most time riding supercross – I’ve only had a few days here and there. I’m not really expecting much – I’m not in the title or anything, so I just want to have fun really and enjoy the race.”

This weekend’s third round of the Australian Supercross Championship will be accompanied by the Australian Motorcycle Festival, which will take place at Lang Park on 9-10 November.


Source: MotoOnline.com.au