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Cardo Partners With Ducati On Branded Communicators

Cardo Systems and Ducati have partnered to produce branded PackTalk communicators for Ducati dealerships. Guess what color they are.

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CARDO PARTNERS TO PRODUCE DEDICATED PACKTALK UNITS FOR DUCATI

Partnership Builds On Cardo’s Commitment to Integrate Motorcycles and Communicators

Milan, Italy (Nov. 6, 2018) –Cardo Systems, Ltd. the global market leader in wireless communication systems for motorcyclists, and Ducati Motor Holdings S.p.A. manufacturer of the world’s most attractive motorcycles, have partnered to produce dedicated PACKTALK units, designed in the classic Ducati red for the 2019 riding season. The collaboration represents the next evolution of Cardo’s commitment to integrate motorcycles and communicators.

cardo systems

“Ducati’s motorcycles are among the world’s most coveted bikes and the company is second to none in terms of  innovative design, advanced engineering and overall technical excellence. These are also qualities we admire and remain committed to implementing them in every product we design and produce,” said Dr. Abraham Glezerman, Cardo’s founder and CEO.“Ducati is a world-class brand, and an ideal partner to help further our commitment to integrate industry leading communication systems with motorcycles.”

PACKTALK products are powered by Cardo’s proprietary and pioneering mesh technology (“DMC”) and give riders the ability to enjoy the company of their riding companions like never before by remaining seamlessly connected with up to 15 riders. Riders can also enjoy a safe riding experience utilizing Cardo’s unique  natural voice-command by simply saying, “Hey Cardo” with the desired action to the always-on system and it reacts instantaneously. No other product in the market offers such seamless voice command technology, in 8 different langugaes. Users will have instant access to their mobile device, GPS and music. Plus, riders will enjoy world-class sound for the best riding experience possible thanks to Sound by JBL.

cardo systems

In October, Cardo Systems and Bosch SoftTech announced the integration of the Cardo ConnectiOS and Android smartphone application into Bosch SoftTech mySPIN for two-wheelers. The award-winning technology enables convenient use of Cardo Connect on motorcycles and other two-wheelers for a whole new connected riding experience without compromising safety.

Cardo Systems PACKTALK units will be available exclusively through Ducati official networkworldwide in spring of 2019.

cardo systems

You can find more information about Cardo Systems at www.cardosystems.com. Also visit us and join the conversation on Facebook, Twitterand Instagram.

The post Cardo Partners With Ducati On Branded Communicators appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

Bosch Unveils Three-Step Safety Concept Toward Accident-Free Mobility

Unlike most tangible concepts coming out of EICMA, Bosch is outlining its plans for the future of motorcycling with a comprehensive three-step safety concept, a vison, if you will. Firstly, by keeping the bike stable in braking situations and acceleration; secondly, by realizing predictive safety and comfort functions with innovative surround-sensing; and thirdly, by connecting the bike with its environment. Learn more about Bosch’s vision for the future of motorcycling from our visit to the Renningen Bosch facility.

Bosch Rider Assistance Technology Continues To Advance

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EICMA 2018: Bosch’s Two-Wheeler & Powersports business continues to gain speed

  • Bosch’s Two-Wheeler & Powersports business is still on course for growth: sales are forecasted to rise more than 20 percent in 2018 compared to 2017
  • Dirk Hoheisel: “Bosch continues to invest in dedicated motorcycle and powersports technologies, aiming at becoming the market leader.”
  • Being shown to a wide audience for the first time – surround sensing technologies are making their way from car to motorcycle
  • Accident-free riding: Bosch tackles this challenge with a comprehensive three-step safety concept
  • More information about the solutions for motorcycles can be found here

Milan, Italy – Bosch’s Two-Wheeler & Powersports business unit continues to gain momentum in the global motorcycle and powersports market. Bosch’s motorcycle technology sales for 2018 are forecasted to rise more than 20 percent compared to 2017. According to Bosch’s estimate, the business unit´s sales will continue to grow twice as fast as the market, heading towards the target of one billion euros of sales in 2020, generated by assistance, powertrain, electrification, and connectivity systems. Major growth is forecasted in India where Bosch supplies market-specific motorcycle powertrain and safety solutions to comply with the ABS and Bharat Stage 6 emission regulation as well as local market trends. Bosch continues to invest in a constantly growing market. The global demand for two-wheelers is forecasted to grow annually by more than four percent from 2017 to 2022, reaching 122 million bikes by 2022 (source: Freedonia). In 2018, Bosch has set up a dedicated Two-Wheeler & Powersports team in ASEAN, one of the Top 3 motorcycle markets in the world besides China and India, to address the local market needs. “Bosch continues to invest in dedicated motorcycle and powersports technologies, aiming at becoming the market leader,” says Dr. Dirk Hoheisel, Executive Board Member at Robert Bosch GmbH.

Bosch’s vision is to make the mobility of the future accident-free, stress-free, and nearly emissions-free – and this goes for motorcycles as well. Safety is one of the most pressing challenges in the motorcycle market. The fact is, motorcyclists are still the most vulnerable road users. Their risk of dying in an accident is up to 20 times higher than for car drivers. Bosch is tackling this with a comprehensive three-step safety concept towards accident-free mobility. Firstly, by keeping the bike stable in braking situations and acceleration; secondly, by realizing predictive safety and comfort functions with innovative surround-sensing; and thirdly, by connecting the bike with its environment.

Comprehensive safety concept: three steps towards accident-free mobility

Bosch has made motorcycle riding safer with assistance systems such as ABS and MSC. According to Bosch accident research, around one-third of powered two-wheeler accidents with injuries could be avoided with MSC. Now Bosch goes one step further by building a virtual safety shield for motorcycles. A new safety package for motorcycles, comprising adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and blind-spot detection is being shown at EICMA to a wide audience for the first time. These electronic assistants are always vigilant and, in emergencies, they respond more quickly than people can. According to Bosch accident research estimates, these radar-based assistance systems could prevent one in seven motorcycle accidents. The technology underpinning these systems is a combination of radar sensor, brake system, engine management, and human machine interface. Giving motorcycles radar as a sensory organ enables these new motorcycle assistance and safety functions while providing an accurate picture of the vehicle’s surroundings. As a result, these assistance functions not only increase safety, they also enhance enjoyment and convenience by making life easier for riders. “The motorcycle of the future must be able to see and feel,” says Geoff Liersch, Head of the Bosch Two-Wheeler and Powersports business unit.

More safety, more enjoyment

Assistance systems alone are not enough to make roads safer. Bosch’s vision for the future is to prevent accidents happening in the first place. According to estimates by Bosch accident research, motorcycle-to-car communication could prevent nearly one-third of motorcycle accidents. Up to ten times a second, vehicles within a radius of several hundred meters exchange information about vehicle types, speed, position, and direction of travel. Long before drivers or their vehicles’ sensors catch sight of a motorcycle, this technology informs them that a motorcycle is approaching, allowing them to adopt a more defensive driving strategy. If a crash is unavoidable, the eCall system will trigger the rescue chain to support the rider as soon as possible. “We will continue to develop new technologies to make motorcycle riding safer without reducing enjoyment,” says Geoff Liersch, Head of Two-Wheeler & Powersports.

The evolution of electromobility for city riding

Another major challenge for the motorcycle market is urbanization. Today, 55 percent of the world’s population lives in urban areas, a proportion that is expected to increase up to 70 percent by 2050 (source: UN). However, as populations grow, so too does the urban landscape with congested roads, higher noise levels, and poorer air quality. To cope with these challenges worldwide, Bosch offers electromobility solutions for nearly all vehicle segments – from eBike systems up to solutions for commercial vehicles. For the electrification of light vehicles on four, three, or two-wheels, for all performance classes between 0.25 and 20 kW, Bosch provides not only highly efficient mobility solutions for the urban environment but also a unique riding experience for the individual riders. As a part of Bosch’s integrated eScooter system, an app integrates vehicle information, connected functions, and social networking. Riders can easily manage trips with the app focusing on the riders’ needs for the specific situation. In addition, Bosch is not only electrifying personal vehicles, but also vehicles used in commercial applications. Electromobility is playing an increasingly important role in the fast and flexible delivery of goods within cities. The Bosch 48 V central drive system is also used to power the Ligier cargo three-wheeler, which delivery services use to carry letters and parcels the last mile to their destinations in urban areas.

The post Bosch Unveils Three-Step Safety Concept Toward Accident-Free Mobility appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

Cardo Freecom 4+ Unveiled at EICMA 2018

The Cardo Freecom 4+ unveiled at EICMA 2018 features a host of premium features at a decent price. We hope to get some for testing as soon as possible. 

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Cardo Systems Unveils All-New Freecom 4+ Setting Again New Standards for Bluetooth Communications Systems

The company continues its tradition of innovation,  delivering the world’s 1st Bluetooth Communicator with JBL-Sound, Natural Voice-Command Operation, and a razor-thin Control Wheel

Cardo Freecom 4+

Plano, Texas (Nov. 6, 2018) – Cardo Systems, the global market leader in wireless communication systems for motorcyclists, today unveiled the Freecom 4+, an all-new scion of its immensely successful Freecom Bluetooth Communicators line – packing high-end technology, at a mid-range price point. Cardo’s Freecom 4+ is the first-ever Bluetooth system to deliver top-end Packtalk features such as JBL-sound, real natural voice-command operation, and a razor-thin analog wheel. Together with state-of-the-art four-way rider-to-rider, rider-to-passenger, and single-rider intercom, the Freecom 4+ is the best equipped and best performing Bluetooth communication system anywhere.

We are excited to offer top-end technology at an affordable price point for the consumer,” said Dr. Abraham Glezerman, Cardo’s founder and CEO. “With its best-in-class sound, truly natural voice operation and the innovative razor-thin wheel, FREECOM 4+ underscores again our ongoing and firm commitment to developing the industry’s best solutions and providing consumers with communication systems that perform extremely well for virtually any riding style.”

The FREECOM 4+ sports a cutting-edge aerodynamic and ergonomic design, plus comes loaded with new technology including two features only available through Cardo: Sound by JBL and truly natural voice-command operation. Developed specifically for Cardo, Sound by JBL now also gives riders the highest standard of audio quality. Freecom 4+ single sound profile offers the purest sound designed and perfected in JBL’s Los Angeles audio labs. Natural voice-command operation allows riders to simply say, “Hey Cardo” without having to press any buttons, and the always-on device reacts instantaneously. The big safety benefit: hands always remain on the handlebar, including activation of Apple’s Siri™ and “OK Google”™ by voice-command.

FREECOM 4+ ($249.00 MSRP)

The FREECOM 4+ represents all of PACKTALK’s premium features in a Bluetooth system to create the best Bluetooth communication device in the world. Connect one to four riders with up to 3/4 mile range, experience Sound by JBL and easy-to-use natural voice-command operation, Bluetooth 4.1, and universal connectivity.

Freecom 4+, like all Cardo units, is IP-67 waterproof, not simply water-resistant, and feature a two-year warranty and a U.S.-based customer-support system.

You can find more information about Cardo Systems at www.cardosystems.com.

The post Cardo Freecom 4+ Unveiled at EICMA 2018 appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

Sepang a positive weekend for Rossi despite crashing out of lead

Sepang a positive weekend for Rossi despite crashing out of lead

Multi-time world champion salvages 18th in Malaysia.

Source: Supplied.

Valentino Rossi is still accepting Sepang’s penultimate round of the 2018 MotoGP World Championship as a positive weekend, despite crashing out of the lead with five laps remaining.

The multi-time world champions displayed strong form and looked to be in line for his first victory since Assen in 2017, however it wasn’t to be as a critical mistake saw him slide out in the closing stages while under pressure from Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda), who went onto seal victory.

The Italian ace remounted for 18th position and still retains third in the championship standings, although his chances of advancing to second in the rankings have been crushed, losing crucial points to rival Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati Team).

“It was a great shame because this was my best race of the season,” Rossi explained. “I felt comfortable, I had a good pace, I pushed, and I had the chance to win, but unfortunately with four or five laps to go I fell – I don’t understand what happened. I made a mistake, because I crashed.

“It’s such a pity, but it still remains a good weekend, because we improved the setting of the bike. I think we have to do some more work, but it looks like we were able to use the bike in a better way in the last few races. This is good, but we have to see if we’re also strong in Valencia. It’s a difficult track for us in general, but we have to try.”

The number 46 will return to action at Valencia in Spain on 18 November for the final round of the world championship.

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

Yamaha unveils selection of 2019 models at EICMA

Yamaha unveils selection of 2019 models at EICMA

Tenere 700 headlines launch, special edition YZF-R1 and XSR700 models introduced.

Source: Supplied.

Yamaha was one of the first to unveil a selection of its 2019 models at EICMA in Milan this weekend, with its presentation overnight being headlined by the all-new Tenere 700 amongst a special edition YZF-R1 and XSR700 motorcycles.

Now the time has come to re-establish Yamaha as a leading force in the adventure segment with the introduction of the all-new Tenere 700 – a lightweight no compromise adventure model with one of the highest specifications in its class, and one of the most exciting and significant new adventure models to be launched for many years.

Yamaha has revolutionised the motorcycle world with the development of the crossplane philosophy engines that power a range of the company’s best-selling models, and the new Tenere 700 is equipped with the highly respected 689cc parallel-twin engine.

The key characteristic of this compact CP2 engine is its strong and linear torque output that gives instant throttle response together with outstanding acceleration – attributes that make it a capable and versatile performer on and off the road.

Producing maximum torque at 6,500rpm, this engine offers the ideal balance of performance and controllability – and with its excellent fuel economy, it contributes towards the Tenere 700’s ability to cover long distances between fuel stops. Click here for more information.

Source: Supplied.

2018 saw the 20th anniversary of one the most iconic designs in motorcycle history, the Yamaha YZF-R1. This first 1998 model revolutionised superbike engineering. The engine size and position, the configuration of parts within the chassis and the chassis itself were all re-imagined. Yamaha have continued to use their industry defining superbike as a platform for innovation for two decades now, reaching unprecedented levels of excellence in the sport bike industry.

Marking this momentous occasion and two decades of leading the way in superbike technology, Yamaha Motor Europe are proud to announce they will be releasing the limited edition, track ready 2019 YZF-R1 GYTR.

Featuring the winning 20th Anniversary Suzuka 8 Hours livery including a wide range of GYTR Performance Products – Genuine Yamaha Technology Racing – and other performance parts as standard. Pricing and availability in Australia is yet to be confirmed.

Source: Supplied.

Over 40 years ago Yamaha introduced the XT500, an air-cooled four-stroke single that went on to become one of Europe’s best-loved motorcycles.

The key to its success was simple design, useable power and all round versatility, and with its XT-inspired colours and classic scrambler looks, the new XSR700 XTribute respects the XT’s true character and pays homage to this iconic bike.

This special combination of timeless good looks and modern technology perfectly illustrates the true spirit of the Faster Sons philosophy, and with its unique specification the XSR700 XTribute gives a new generation of riders the chance to celebrate the past.

While at the same time it benefits from the very latest technology and an outstanding riding experience. Availability along with domestic pricing has not yet been revealed.

For 2019, the XT1200Z and XT1200ZE will be available in a new Ceramic Ice colour option that sharpens their rugged looks. Equipped with 74-litre side cases, a high screen and fog lamps, the exclusive XT1200ZE Raid Edition is continued for 2019.

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

Miller extracting ‘small victories’ from Sepang MotoGP encounter

Miller extracting ‘small victories’ from Sepang MotoGP encounter

Medium-compound tyre strategy backfires for the Australian.

Source: Supplied.

Pramac Racing’s Jack Miller charged to eighth position at the weekend’s penultimate round of the MotoGP World Championship, marking the third-consecutive time he’s achieved that result at the Malaysian grand prix in the premier class.

According to the likeable Australian, he’s extracting ‘small victories’ out of his performance, highlighting an improved gap behind the leaders as he crossed the line in the 20-lap affair.

“That’s now three years in a row that I’ve been eighth here, so you look for small victories,” said Miller in his Red Bull column. “In 2016 and ’17, I was more than half a minute behind the winner – this time, it was 19 seconds. So, progress to some extent, but it’s hard not to feel a bit flat after being less than seven seconds from the front at Phillip Island last weekend.”

Miller once again opted for an alternative tyre strategy that differed from the trend amongst the field, sporting a medium-compound at the rear, which unfortunately failed to deliver for the Queensland-native.

It’s the second round in a row that tyre strategy has backfired for the Ducati pilot, although Miller expressed the importance of going against the grain in order to make possible gains on the factory-prepared machines.

“We went for the medium-compound rear tyre, and I was the only one of us on the entire grid to race it, everyone else used the soft,” he continued. “We had a warm-up session on Sunday on a damp track still, so we didn’t do any laps on slicks on Sunday before the race. It was a bit of an educated guess for all of us with tyre choice, and mine didn’t work.

“When you’re racing the factory guys, doing the same as them with tyres means you’re going to probably finish behind them because of the equipment they have. It’d become a game of follow the leader where you know where you’ll finish, more or less. If the medium tyre had have paid off for me today, it would have looked like a masterstroke.

“You have to try to do something different to come up with a different outcome. I’m not under any pressure from behind in the championship, there’s nothing to lose, so I thought I’d give the medium a go.”

Miller sits 13th in the championship rankings with just one round to spare in the series, scheduled for 18 November at Valencia in Spain.

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

Official 2019 Australian Superbike Championship calendar unveiled

Official 2019 Australian Superbike Championship calendar unveiled

Darwin dropped, Sydney Motorsport Park returns in the new year.

Image: Russell Colvin.

Motorcycling Australia (MA) has unveiled the official 2019 calendar for the Yamaha Motor Finance Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK), confirming the series will continue with seven rounds in the new year.

Notable changes for 2019 include the absence of Darwin’s Hidden Valley Raceway, while Sydney Motorsport Park makes a welcome return, where it’s set to host the season finale at a later than usual date of 1-3 November.

The championship will kick off in conjunction with the opening round of the Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK) at Phllip Island on 21-24 February, before heading to Wakefield Park Raceway in New South Wales for round two on 22-24 March.

Round three will visit the world-class The Bend Motorsport Park in South Australia, scheduled for 26-28 April, before heading into a lengthy break. Racing will resume on 5-7 July at Morgan Park Raceway in Queensland followed by Winton Motor Raceway’s fifth stop on 6-8 September in Victoria.

Phillip Island is set to make it’s second appearance in the championship for penultimate round on 4-6 October prior to wrapping up in Sydney.

2019 Australian Superbike Championship calendar:
Rd1- 21-24 February – Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, VIC
Rd2 – 22-24 March – Wakefield Park Raceway, NSW
Rd3 – 26-28 April – The Bend Motorsport Park, SA
Rd4 – 5-7 July – Morgan Park Raceway, QLD
Rd5 – 6-8 September – Winton Motor Raceway, VIC
Rd6 – 4-6 October – Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, VIC
Rd7 – 1-3 November – Sydney Motorsport Park, NSW

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

Syahrin recovers for emotional top 10 at home Malaysian GP

Syahrin recovers for emotional top 10 at home Malaysian GP

First-ever Malaysian MotoGP riders put on incredible display at Sepang.

Source: Supplied.

Following a disastrous qualifying session that saw him wind up on the last row, Monster Energy Tech3 Yamaha’s Hafizh Syahrin put on an incredible display in front of 103,000 Malaysian fans at the weekend’s penultimate round of the 2018 MotoGP World Championship as he fought his way to 10th position.

Syahrin navigated his way to P12 on the opening lap, maintaining his place at the middle of the field until completing the 20-lap encounter for his third top 10 of the season.

The entire weekend was an emotional one for the number 55, being the first ever Malaysian rider to represent the nation in the premier class, while also being his first home grand prix while contesting the MotoGP category.

“It’s just unbelievable!” Syahrin stated. “First of all, I want to say thank you very much to my team, because they always believe in me and give me great motivation. Yesterday has been a disaster for us, but we made up for it. In the starting grid, I saw my father and was just emotional and had to hug him.

“I want to thank everybody that came here. To arrive in the top 10 for my home GP was my target, but to be honest, I didn’t believe it was possible. But in the end, we did it, which is incredible. I want to thank everybody – I love my family and my fans. I’m so happy!”

Team manager Herve Poncharal praised the youthful talent’s efforts, highlighting his top 10 placing in front of a home crowd as a dream for the KTM-bound outfit.

“I was feeling very sorry last night after qualifying for Hafizh, because I know how important this Malaysian grand prix was for him,” said Poncharal. “I know the effort he put in to reach MotoGP and finally for his first home GP he was so disappointed, so sad. I tried to cheer him up this morning, I tried to cheer him up on the grid and – I don’t know if there is a link in between what I told him and what he did, but the start was unreal.

“Maybe one of the best starts I’ve ever seen, at least this season and from that moment he was fighting with Miller, Petrucci and even Vinales at some stage. He finished the race in 10th position, which is a dream for us and for him and I’m so happy, because Hafizh is not only an incredible team player, but he is a charming young man and he is the best ambassador Malaysia could have in MotoGP.”

Syahrin sits 16th in the championship standings with one round remaining, while he’s 10 points shy of Franco Morbidelli (EG 0,0 Marc VDS) in the race for Rookie of the Year honours.

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

Ducati unveils three all-new 2019 models ahead of EICMA

Ducati unveils three all-new 2019 models ahead of EICMA

Panigale V4 R, Diavel 1260 and Hypermotard 950 headline 2019 range.

2019 ducati models

Source: Supplied.

Ducati has unveiled its 2019 collection of motorcycles ahead of EICMA in Milan this week, revealing three all-new models in the Panigale V4 R, Diavel 1260 and Hypermotard 950.

Compared to previous R versions, the Panigale V4 R is now even more specialised and bristles with technology taken directly from MotoGP. The modifications extend far beyond the engine and suspension set-up – they also include the fairing, designed and developed by Ducati Corse in close collaboration with the Ducati Style Centre to improve aerodynamic efficiency.

The new fairing also incorporates the aerofoil appendages developed for the MotoGP prototypes. Made of carbon fibre, they increase stability throughout the ride, to allow for reduced reliance on electronic controls, boosting confidence for the pinnacle of rider performance

The Panigale V4 R is, to all intents and purposes, a road-legal WorldSBK category competition bike and constitutes the technical foundation for the official Ducati Superbikes that will compete in the world championship as from the 2019 season.

The Desmosedici Stradale 1103cc engine has been replaced with the 998cc Desmosedici Stradale R to comply with displacement limits set by WorldSBK rules. Unlike the larger V4 – designed to provide fluid power delivery and excellent low-rev pulling power for optimal road use – the 998cc powerplant offers more extreme performance as power delivery has been designed with the track in mind.

Moreover, it’s characterised by lighter internal components which reduces the overall bike weight by 2kg compared to the Panigale V4S, bringing the kerb weight down to just 193kg. Greater air intake efficiency allows faster engine ‘rev-up’ and shifts the rpm red zone higher to ensure improved acceleration.

The result is 221hp (162kW) of power at 15,250rpm (EU homologation values), 2,250rpm higher than the point of peak power on the 1103cc V4. These impressive figures can be taken even higher by fitting the full-racing Ducati Performance exhaust by Akrapovic, which boosts maximum power to 234hp (172kW) at 15,500rpm. In short, it’s the most powerful Ducati factory motorcycle ever!

2019 ducati models

Source: Supplied.

Another major development unveiled is the new Diavel 1260. Unconventional, unique and absolutely unmistakeable – as soon as it was launched at EICMA 2010 the Diavel stunned with its personality, design, sport naked handling and thoroughbred engine.

The second-generation Diavel 1260 remains faithful to the original spirit of that incredibly special bike, drawing on its key styling elements and putting a decidedly more contemporary slant on them: it now offers more assertive outlines and higher performance, is more fun on mixed-road routes and offers greater comfort for rider and passenger alike.

Its sport naked soul is evident in the Testastretta DVT 1262 engine, capable of delivering 159hp (117kW) at 9,500rpm and 129Nm (13.1kgm) at 7,500rpm. An immensely satisfying torque curve ensures both breath-taking acceleration and a low-rev smoothness that’s ideal for everyday riding or touring.

An upgraded chassis set-up makes the Diavel 1260 more responsive on mixed-road routes while top-drawer technology and electronics provide braking performance on a par with that of a sport bike and user-friendly engine performance control.

The excellent riding position and ‘power cruiser’ ergonomics that helped make this motorcycle so successful remain unaltered – what has changed is the chassis set-up, characterised by a new tubular steel trellis frame that goes perfectly with another Diavel hallmark, the 17-inch rear wheel with its 240mm wide tyre.

A sportier S version of the Diavel 1260 is also available, featuring fully-adjustable Ohlins suspension at both front and rear, dedicated wheels and an even higher-performance braking system. The S version mounts Ducati Quick Shift up and down Evo (DQS) as standard to allow clutchless shifting.

2019 ducati models

Source: Supplied.

The new Hypermotard 950 is now racier, more adrenalin-packed and rider-friendly. The Ducati ‘fun bike’ par excellence has been given a full-blown makeover – the new look takes its cue from the supermotard race world, the completely overhauled ergonomics ramps up the fun and riders can now count on an ultra-advanced chassis set-up and electronics package.\

A full 4kg lighter than the previous model, the new Hypermotard 950 mounts a renewed 937cc Testastretta 11-degree engine with a more muscular 114hp, combining greater pulling power with new electronics to ensure smoother control. The Hypermotard 950 electronics package includes Bosch Cornering ABS with the Slide by Brake function, Ducati Traction Control EVO (DTC EVO), Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) EVO and Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) Up and Down EVO (as standard on the 950 SP version and available as an accessory on the 950).

Now even higher-performing and with racing overtones, the Hypermotard 950 SP features a flat seat, increased-travel Ohlins suspension to ensure an acuter lean angle, Marchesini forged wheels and Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) Up and Down EVO. Pricing and availability for all three in Australian are yet to be determined.

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

Details about 2019 Aprilia RSV4 1100 Factory and RSV4 RR Released

The 2019 Aprilia RSV4 1100 and RR have been announced with plenty of detail. Looks like we’ll need to have another V4 comparison sooner than later. We’re okay with that. 

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APRILIA RSV4 1100 FACTORY AND RSV4 RR

THE EXTRAORDINARY PROJECT THAT NEVER STOPS GROWING, INTRODUCES THE FASTEST, MOST POWERFUL AND LIGHTEST RSV4 EVER – NEW 217 HP V4 ENGINE

MORE ADVANCED CHASSIS ARCHITECTURE AND BRAKES WITH REDUCED WEIGHT

THE RR VERSION, EQUIPPED WITH A 201 HP 1000 CC V4 ENGINE, IS AVAILABLE IN TWO NEW AND ATTRACTIVE GRAPHIC DESIGNS.

2019 Aprilia RSV4 1100

Aprilia RSV4 has always set the bar in terms of sportiness and performance, the best example of just what can be accomplished drawing from the valuable experience of a winning Racing Department like Aprilia’s which, in its brief history, has earned 54 world titles, seven of which in the World SBK championship. Skills honed on the track and transferred to the factory product to provide everyone with the same excitement that the motorbikes prepared by Aprilia Racing do.

Unmistakable in its design lucidity and applied technology, the RSV4 is conceived around a 65° V4 engine never before seen on a factory sport bike, a framewhich is the heir to a dynasty that has won 18 titles and 143 Grand Prix races in the 250 GP class, enhanced by the most modern applied electronics systems to manage the engine and the bike’s dynamic performance. This is a true vocation of Aprilia, which was the first manufacturer to adopt the Ride-By-Wire multimap accelerator as standard equipment, but above all the first to patent the APRC dynamic control system, with the exclusive features of self-calibration and wheelie control, in the spirit of maximum effectiveness at the service of top performance.

2019 Aprilia RSV4 1100 Factory

2019 Aprilia RSV4 1100

The RSV4 project has always pursued a stated goal: to be the absolute best and fastest uncompromising superbike, the one that comes the closest to Aprilia racing bikes in terms of performance and effectiveness. A premium product at the top of its category dedicated to extremely demanding customers who want top shelf performance and refined technical equipment, provided thanks in part to the use of prestigious materials like aluminum, titanium and carbon.

Aprilia RSV4 1100 Factory – the latest step in this evolutionary line – boasts exceptional performance combined with a racing frame, suspension, and electronics package, each evolved even further.

In line with the exclusivity of this model, the Aprilia Style Centre has worked hard to make the RSV4 1100 Factory unique and recognizable even by its colors and attention to detail. The color combinations aim to enhance the exclusive nature of prestigious materials such as carbon (on the front mudguard, the side panels, the exhaust terminal guard and the aerodynamic winglets), in contrast with the titanium finish of the street-legal Akrapovic exhaust terminal, the same color as the forged aluminum wheels. For the graphics of the superstructure, an attractive total matt black look was chosen that enhances all the beauty of the sculpture-like twin-spar frame and swingarm made of aluminum. Given the incredible performance achieved by RSV4 1100 Factory, for the first time on a factory superbike, Aprilia introduces aerodynamic winglets on the fairing, thanks to the developments made by Aprilia Racing on the RS-GP prototype from which they are derived. The particular shape designed in the wind tunnel and the inclination at which they are mounted take advantage of the downforce of the channeled air to let the winglets increase stability at high speeds, contributing to decreasing the tendency for wheelies coming out of turns and at the same time increasing stability in hard braking.

Record Performance for the Aprilia 1100 V4

With the introduction of RSV4 1100 Factory, Aprilia makes all the top performance a sport rider could desire available, combined with that character and inimitable sound of the V4 from Noale. There is no other powerplant of its kind that can boast a ten-year-long history of wins. A platform capable of satisfying the needs of the most advanced sport rider and also representing an exceptional base to develop a racing bike. After reaching the benchmark of 201 HP in the street-legal factory configuration in 2017, the V4 from Aprilia reaches another evolutionary crossroad, increasing displacement to 1078 cc. This change was decided based on the experience and the outstanding feedback from critics and the public already obtained with this solution on the Tuono V4, the sport naked version of the RSV4 which went from 1000 to 1100 cc in 2015.

The RSV4 1100 Factory engine displacement is achieved thanks to new pistons with bore that went from 78 to 81 mm; the 52.3 mm stroke remains unchanged with respect to the 1000 V4 engine that still powers the RSV4 RR. The compression ratio of 13.6:1 also remains unchanged. To improve wet sump lubrication, there is a new oil pump with greater flow capacity; the piston temperature has now been lowered thanks to the use of a double oil jet. The timing system boasts optimized intake valve timing, while the primary drive now counts on a longer ratio for fifth and sixth gear. The electronic injection system now uses a throttle valve support with a more aerodynamic profile in order to improve fluid-dynamic permeability. The Magneti Marelli 7SM ECU has a new specific map with limiter management set at 13,600 rpm. This brings maximum power to 217 HP at 13,200 rpm, setting the bar in the category; maximum torque also benefits from these changes, obtaining a clear increase along the entire range of more than 10% compared to the 1000 cc engine and reaching a maximum value of 122 Nm at 11,000 rpm. This is an important value that makes the RSV4 1100 Factory not only more effective in acceleration even from low speeds on the track, but also more thrilling to ride on the road. Last, but not least, the exhaust system was optimized, not only in the layout of the manifolds, but also adding the street-legal titanium Akrapovic terminal as standard equipment, significantly lighter than the previous unit. The new Aprilia RSV4 1100 Factory also benefits from finer calibration suited for the revamped performance of its APRC electronic controls package.

Chassis: Even More Effective Going Through Corners and in Braking

Aprilia is known as one of the best chassis manufacturers in the world and the RSV4 represents the synthesis of the technical prowess Aprilia has acquired in top level world championships. A particularity which is still exclusive to the RSV4 RR and Factory (and which has always been a characteristics of the previous generations) is the exceptional range of possible adjustments that the standard equipment chassis is able to provide. In fact, the Aprilia is the only superbike that allows the rider to adjust the engine position in the frame, the headstock angle, the swingarm pivot and the rear end height, naturally in addition to the fully adjustable suspension. Just like a real racing bike.

The ever-popular and winning structure of the Aprilia RSV4 frame has remained unchanged and it takes advantage of the forged and molded aluminum elements capable of guaranteeing exceptional performance, thanks in part to the perfectly balanced rigidity and torsional flexibility values. Precisely because of the wide range of possible adjustments provided by the frame, the frame and suspension setup and the weight distribution on the RSV4 1100 Factory have been revisited. Thanks to new steering bushings (+ 3 mm both upper and lower), the inclination of the headstock decreases, and the offset of the new steering yoke also changes, now reduced by 2 mm. This results in a 4 mm shorter wheelbase. The overall result is that it brings the front end closer to the rider, increasing the load on the front wheel (and therefore stability), but without decreasing agility. One of the points of excellence of the RSV4 (and unequalled to date by any other bike) has always been its performance in the delicate and important braking-turning-cornering speed phase which Aprilia has managed to further amplify on the RSV4 1100 Factory, not only thanks to the changes to the front end, but also thanks to the new setup of the Öhlins NIX fork, with 5 mm more travel (125 mm total), a choice that lets the rider corner even better.

The suspension system is completed by two other prestigious Öhlins elements: the adjustable series TTX shock absorber and the steering damper, also adjustable. In order to guarantee and further increase stability coming out of turns, RSV4 1100 Factory has also undergone some changes to the swingarm which is now stiffer with a significant increase of yaw and torsion, guaranteeing more precision coming out of corners.

The braking system, already top shelf in the previous version, has also benefited from important upgrades: the Brembo Stylema front calipers, lighter and more efficient, take the place of the M50 calipers and are now fitted with pads with higher friction coefficient performance. The new brake calipers can be combined with the pair of carbon air ducts (similar to those used by Aprilia Racing on the RS-GP), which let you keep the operating temperature under control, ensuring the same exceptional braking performance even in the most extreme use. The curb weight of the RSV4 1100 Factory with a full tank is 199 kg, thanks to the introduction of the new titanium exhaust terminal and the new ultra-light Bosch lithium battery.

APRC: From Aprilia, the Cutting-Edge in Electronics

Aprilia RSV4 1000 RR and RSV4 1100 Factory are fitted with an exceptional dynamic controls package designed and patented by Aprilia. Each one of the two models benefit from a specific calibration of all the controls in line with the different performance levels the two bikes can boast. APRC (Aprilia Performance Ride Control) is the well-known dynamic control suite derived directly from the winning technology in world Superbike, one of the most complete and refined currently available on the market. The particular positioning and orientation of the inertial platform that governs the operation of the system allows for optimum possibilities of detecting the bike’s dynamic conditions and, consequently, more effective electronic control strategies.

The fourth evolution of Aprilia’s APRC is perfectly integrated with the electronic fine tuning guaranteed by the full Ride-by-Wire throttle control which is completely built-in and requires no other components for electronic throttle valve management. This provides clear benefits in terms of weight (compared to a traditional system, the savings can be quantified at 590 grams). 

APRC, which comes as standard equipment on the Aprilia RSV4 RR and RSV4 1100 Factory includes:

  • ATC: Aprilia Traction Controladjustable on the fly (without having to release the throttle) to 8 settings thanks to a practical joystick, boasts high performance operating logic.
  • AWC: Aprilia Wheelie Control, the wheelie control system that can be adjusted to 3 levels, has extremely precise operating strategies. Wheelie control can be adjusted on the fly without closing the throttle, like the ATC, thanks to the practical left side electric block.
  • ALC: Aprilia Launch Control, for use on the track only, with 3 settings, uses highly effective operating strategies.
  • AQS: Aprilia Quick Shift, the electronic gearbox that allows shifting without closing the throttle and without using the clutch, also equipped with thedownshift function, to allow clutchless downshifting. Its open-throttle downshifting feature is exclusive.
  • APL: Aprilia Pit Limiter, the system that lets you select and limit the top speed allowed in pit lane at the track or simply to make it easier to comply with posted speed limits on the road.
  • ACC: Aprilia Cruise Control. Electronic management has allowed cruise control to be introduced, very convenient on longer trips because it lets you maintain the set speed without touching the throttle.

In addition to the fourth generation APRC system, RSV4 RR and Factory come from the factory standard with advanced multimap Cornering ABS, developed in collaboration with Bosch to guarantee not only extreme safety on the road, but also the best possible performance at the circuit. The 9.1 MP system, with truly contained weight and dimensions, is able to optimize braking and the ABS intervention in corners, thanks to a specific algorithm that constantly monitors various parameters such as lateral acceleration, the pressure applied to the front brake lever, the lean, pitch and yaw angle, modulating the braking action in order to better guarantee the ratio between deceleration and stability. The ABS system works in unison with the Aprilia RLM (Rear Liftup Mitigation) system that limits the lift of the rear wheel during more abrupt braking. Cornering ABS, fine-tuned in accordance with Aprilia’s specific indications, is adjustable to 3 levels of sensibility. Each of the three Cornering ABS maps can be combined with any of the three engine maps (Sport, Track, Race), allowing riders with different experience and skill levels to find the best possible combination for their style. The three maps are “full power” and differ in the way they unload the power onto the asphalt of which the Aprilia V4 is capable in the two available configurations (1000 cc for the RR and 1100 cc for the Factory), in addition to the percentage of engine brake dedicated to them.

The color TFT instrumentation is a true digital computer with exceptional display features, now further improved thanks to increased brightness. The two selectable screen pages (Road and Race, both with night and day backlighting) correspond to as many represented indexes. Available as an accessory for both the RSV4 RF and the RSV4 1100 Factory is V4-MP, the Aprilia multimedia platform that lets you connect your smartphone to the vehicle via Bluetooth, introducing for the first time a true corner by corner electronic settings calibration system with data that can subsequently be downloaded to your laptop (or displayed directly on the smartphone) for analysis, just like they do at the races. V4-MP is characterized by a new connection protocol that reduces smartphone battery consumption to a minimum, in addition to providing a wide range of circuits already mapped in which you can manage the electronic settings corner by corner, as well as user acquisition of a new circuit that is not in the list Aprilia has provided. V4-MP also includes the infotainment system, introduced by Aprilia for the first time on the RSV4, to manage voice commands and incoming/outgoing telephone calls with your smartphone. These activities are also displayed and managed by the digital instrumentation.

2019 Aprilia RSV4 1100

2019 Aprilia RSV4 1100
2019 Aprilia RSV4 1100
2019 Aprilia RSV4 1100

2019 Aprilia RSV4 RR

2019 Aprilia RSV4 RR

Aprilia RSV4 RR represents a top shelf technical platform, ready to provide the rider with a “race replica” performance and feeling. In order to support the most demanding riders, one of the available accessories Aprilia offers is the Track kit, a package of prestigious parts that work together to improve many aspects of the RSV4 RR such as its weight, handling, aerodynamics and, last but not least, its appearance. The MY19 version of RSV4 RR has not undergone any technical changes with respect to the previous version.

 The Inimitable Character and Performance of the 1.0-Liter Aprilia V4

The primary and unique characteristics of this 999.6 cc gem of Italian technology, the ones that led to the creation of the best superbike of all times, are in common with the 1078 cc engine that powers the Factory version. This is the world’s first full scale production motorcycle with a high performance narrow V4 engine, the most revolutionary and powerful engine ever built by Aprilia. An engine that has been made unmistakable because of the use of “total” electronics, because of its extremely compact size and light weight, to which the magnesium external housings, oil sump and cylinder head covers contribute. The narrow V architecture has made it possible to make an engine that is extremely compact lengthways which helps to centralize weights and to have an extremely high-performance chassis. The timing system uses very particular kinematics: the chain camshaft drives only the intake camshaft which in turn drives the exhaust camshaft via a gear. This allows for extremely compact heads, to the advantage of the frame layout which, on the RSV4, is as compact as that of a Grand Prix bike. the crankcase is monobloc with integrated aluminum cylinder liners to ensure maximum rigidity and consistent performance. The countershaft dampens vibrations.

Power and maximum torque are respectively 201 HP at 13,000 rpm and 115 Nm at 10,500 rpm; bar-setting values that are joined by the one-of-a-kind sound that has always been the true soundtrack Aprilia V4 engines have always offered. Like the 1100 cc V4 of the Factory, the RR’s 1000 cc also boasts ultra-lightweight pistons fitted with segments that reduce the blow-by effect in order to combine high performance and reliability. There is also a honing treatment for the connecting rod heads that contributes to reducing friction. The valve return springs also guarantee reliability during heavier workloads, while the valves benefit from optimized timing. The gearbox has a linear sensor that guarantees impeccable shifting operation, while the RSV4 RR exhaust system has a silencer fitted with double lambda probe and integrated valve.

Chassis: Just Like a Real Race Bike

Aprilia RSV4 is the representative par excellence of Aprilia tradition in packaging state of the art chassis architecture, thanks to the know-how acquired in top level world competitions. The frame with exceptional adjustment possibilities and the swingarm exploit pressed and cast elements welded to one another. The ration between torsional stiffness and flexibility is one of the secrets of the RSV4 chassis architecture’s success. It is the same structure that equips the Aprilia RSV4 1100 Factory, although the latter boasts a different steering geometry.

The chassis architecture of the RSV4 RR is completed by a Sachs suspension trio (instead of the Öhlins equipment on the RSV4 1100 Factory), made up of a fork with 43 mm stanchions and a shock absorber with separate “piggy back” and a steering damper, the first two fully adjustable in all hydraulic functions and in spring preload (the shock absorber also has a center-to-center length adjustment that allows the height of the rear end to be changed).

On the RSV4 RR, Aprilia offers a pair of cast aluminum wheels and a Brembo braking system that is the absolute top of the line in this category: the front relies on a pair of new 5 mm thick steel discs with a diameter of 330 mm, gripped by the monobloc M50 calipers fitted with high friction coefficient brake pads.

Versions and Colors

Aprilia RSV4 RR is available in two attractive new color schemes on a black and grey base (Rivazza grey and Arrabbiata black) with red wheel rims.

Aprilia RSV4 1100 Factory is the exclusive version that comes standard with latest generation Öhlins suspension systems, lightweight aluminum forged rims and the titanium Akrapovic exhaust terminal. It stands out for its dedicated Atomico 6 graphics which highlight and enhance the use of precious technical materials such as carbon, thanks to the contrast with the total black matt paint. The upper steering yoke enhanced by the laser etched writing ‘1100 Factory’ in contrast completes the features of the new RSV4.  

2019 Aprilia RSV4 RR

2019 Aprilia RSV4 RR

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