Tag Archives: Suzuki

2019 Suzuki V-Strom 1000XT | $17,990 ride-away with luggage

Pick up a 2019 V-Strom 1000XT with $3k of luggage for $17,990 R/A


For a limited time, riders can ride away on a new MY19 V-Strom 1000XT adventure tourer equipped with the newly released Genuine Suzuki three-piece aluminium luggage system worth over $3,000 for $17,990. That’s the normal ride-away price of the 1000XT!

Suzuki V Strom XT
2019 V-Strom 1000XT

The bonus luggage set consists of a robust 38L waterproof top case, constructed from 1.5mm aluminium and powder coated black to protect against oxidation and abrasion whilst being easy to clean. Additional protection is offered by glass-fibre reinforced plastic covers at each corner top and bottom, the lid also features four large tie-down points integrated into the design.

The top case is accompanied by a set of tough 37L quick-release, waterproof side cases. As a matching system, many features are shared across all three pieces including construction material, black powder coated finish, plastic corner covers and integrated tie-down points. The side case lids are also completely removable via a quick release fastener system for superior access and cleaning.

Combined the bonus luggage set offers users 112L of usable storage. All three pieces and mounting points are lockable by key and can be quickly removed from the model specific bracketry. Available now from Suzuki Motorcycles dealerships for a manufacturer’s suggested price of $17,990 Ride Away including 12-months registration and fitment of the bonus aluminium luggage set.

Suzuki V Strom XT
2019 V-Strom 1000XT

2019 Suzuki V-Strom 1000XT

The pearl in the V-Strom 1000’s crown is the versatile 1037cc 90-degree V-twin engine. The rider-friendly nature of the big V-twin is tuned to deliver a thick layer of torque (101Nm) from as low as 4000rpm.

The XT Cross-Touring model features wire-spoked wheels and tapered handlebars as standard. The MY19 iteration sports three new colour schemes: Champion Yellow No.2, Pearl Blue/Pearl Glacier White & Glass Sparkle Black.

Suzuki’s advanced traction control system proves sometimes simple is better, featuring two modes of assistance; Mode 1 has the least amount of intervention allowing for a certain degree of rear wheelspin to not get in the way of spirited riding. Mode 2 has a higher level of intervention, applied at an instant controlling and preventing the slightest amount of spin, particularly effective in supporting the rider in situations such as rain or on slippery road surfaces. The system can also be turned off altogether.

The Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS) acts as a slipper clutch system when changing down rapidly, while always providing light use at the lever. Suzuki’s Low RPM assist system has been installed, freeing the rider from unexpected engine stalls. This system will automatically raises the idle speed when engaging the clutch or when riding at low rpms, preventing sudden engine stalling.

Braking duties are taken care of by radial mounted four piston mono-block Tokico brake calipers and twin 310mm diameter discs up the front, and a 260mm diameter single disc with a single piston caliper on the rear, providing strong and controllable braking performance.

The Bosch ABS “Motion Track Brake System” employs a five-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), and by combining data regarding the posture of the motorcycle with the front and rear wheel speeds, have made it possible for the ABS to activate not only in a straight line braking but also when the motorcycle is cornering.

This new sophisticated system instantly assesses the need for ABS intervention when the lever or pedal is operated by calculating the angle of the motorcycle versus the wheel speeds. The intelligent unit controls the increase/decrease in braking pressure at an advanced level matching it to the level of traction available.

Also a new feature is the Combination Brake system which automatically activates the rear brake in an effort to stabilise the motorcycle when the front brake pressure rises above a certain threshold.

The exterior design draws inspiration from the DR-Z800 raced by Gaston Rahier in the Dakar rally and the production DR-BIG model that followed. Developed through extensive wind-tunnel testing the windscreen is 49mm taller than the previous version for increased rider comfort and protection whilst significantly reducing wind buffering. Three pre-set height options are available, the windscreen is set at its lowest position from standard and can be lifted by either 15mm or 30mm according to rider preference.

Suzuki’s ratchet-gear mechanism allows the rider to easily choose from three windscreen angles. No tools are required and the desired position can be achieved by simply pushing the windscreen out by hand, even with riding gloves on.

A double stich seat provides luxurious comfort for both the rider and passenger. The revised shape is now slimmer at the front for increased rider clearance combined with the low seat height making it easier for riders to reach the ground. The sides of the seat provide a high level of grip thanks to using the same materials as from the competition RM-Z motocross range.

19 inch front and 17 inch rear wheels provide balance, stability and nimbleness to effectively cope with all riding situations. The V-Strom 1000XT features tubeless wire-spoke wheels. Wire-spoked aluminium-alloy rims absorb shock effectively at low speeds to promote friendly handling character.

Black-anodized 43mm inverted front forks and a dial-adjustable rear shock help to ensure great road holding and a smooth, comfortable ride even with a passenger and a full complement of luggage. Both front and rear suspension systems are fully adjustable enabling the rider to maximise performance in any situation.

The V-Strom 1000XT is built on a slim, twin-spar aluminium-alloy frame, providing a smooth ride, and a sporty riding experience when pushed hard. The aluminium swingarm provides a high level of straight-line and cornering stability. The chassis has been designed to perform regardless whether it’s fully loaded with luggage and/or pillion or solo.

The instruments include an analogue tachometer and a brightness-adjustable LCD speedometer. The LCD readouts include an odometer, dual trip meters, the gear position, the coolant and ambient temperatures, the voltage, the riding range, the average fuel consumption, the instantaneous fuel consumption, the traction control mode, a fuel gauge and a clock.

A convenient 12V DC outlet is located below the instrument panel and is ideal for powering GPS units or charging mobile devices.

Source: MCNews.com.au

2020 Suzuki RM-Z250 gets WiFi Tuning with MX-Tuner 2.0

Standard with every new MY20 RM-Z250 purchased, the plug and play Suzuki MX-Tuner 2.0 allows customers to alter the engine mapping via the intuitive smartphone WiGET app, available on iOS and Android devices.

The WiGET app comes with several pre-installed settings for easy tuning for different riding styles and track conditions. For the more experienced tuner, the possibilities are practically endless with the ability to create fully customised maps with specific settings for 36 points of ignition timing and 36 points of fuel injection delivery.

Suzuki RM Z
2020 Suzuki RM-Z250

A host of updates and features that were introduced for MY19 also carry over to the latest model.

The highly praised 48mm KYB spring front forks and shock return offering excellent compliance over small bumps while firming up deeper into the stroke to handle bigger hits such as harsh jump landings.

Suzuki RM Z
2020 Suzuki RM-Z250

Suzuki’s sophisticated Traction Management system works seamlessly with the rider to get the power to the ground. To maximise traction for conditions, the engine control module (ECM) automatically adjusts ignition timing and fuel injection based on throttle position, engine speed and gear position.

Suzuki’s Holeshot Assist Control (S-HAC) provides riders a choice of three settings which can be quickly selected via a handlebar-mounted switch. The “A” mode is programmed for hard surfaces, such as a concrete starting pad, clay or hard-packed dirt where controlling wheelspin is crucial to good starts. The “B” mode is for normal dirt conditions. Riders can also select the “Off” setting to retain standard ignition timing.

Suzuki RM-Zs are famous for their class-leading cornering and turning performance. The latest generation aluminium chassis design ensures this legacy continues, giving riders sharper handling, better feel and more control than ever before.

The MY20 RM-Z250 boasts updated graphics and livery, black anodized Dirtstar rims, a powerful 270mm wave front rotor and Renthal aluminium Fatbar handlebars as standard equipment.

The MY20 Suzuki RM-Z250 is available now from Australian dealerships with a manufacturer’s suggested price of $10,590 ride away.

Suzuki RM Z
2020 Suzuki RM-Z250

Source: MCNews.com.au

Alex Rins on his British Grand Prix win at Silverstone

“Winning is always an indescribable feeling. No matter the category. Being on the top of the podium makes you feel like you’re floating. Everything is strange up there; the smell of champagne, the people from your team cheering down below, the fans in the grandstands applauding, and then raising the trophy to the sky. It’s a moment that seems unreal, it’s like daydreaming. And in MotoGP it is even more extraordinary.

MotoGP Rnd Silverstone alex rins podium
Alex Rins tops the podium from Marquez and Vinales – Silverstone MotoGP 2019 – Round 12

“I was already able to experience this feeling in Austin. I remember my team on the fence on pit wall, all climbing up, screaming and celebrating. It was my first victory in the MotoGP class, and it was a truly exultant moment. Winning the battle against a legend like Valentino Rossi was an unforgettable memory. And it was made much more special by the fact that it was a race in which we did not have really high expectations.

MotoGP Rnd Silverstone Marquez
Marc Marquez & Alex Rins – Silverstone MotoGP 2019 – Round 12

“The same thing happened in Great Britain too. During the weekend we were competitive, perhaps enough to fight for the podium, but we felt we were missing something to fight for the top spot. But on Sunday the unimaginable happened. After the warm up we found something that allowed us to fight, and we tried it…

MotoGP Rnd Silverstone Rins
Alex Rins – Silverstone MotoGP 2019 – Round 12

“The race was exciting, very hot, which is super unusual at Silverstone! Do you remember what it was like last year there? Last weekend was the total opposite. The asphalt was pretty good, with a lot of grip, and the weather conditions were great for riding. The start was very good, I soon placed third and then I had a scare. The bike thought about ejecting me, but fortunately I could control it! Uff. I saved myself from a crash then I turned my head and thought: ‘That could have been a big mess!’

MotoGP Rnd Silverstone Start
Silverstone MotoGP 2019 – Round 12

“Then my goal was to stay close to Marc. So, I overtook Valentino and followed him. Later on in the race when Márquez let me pass, I thought ‘Damn! Let him pass back again and do not show your cards in the last corner’ because I was stronger there than him. Just one lap before I had gone wide, on the outside. That’s why the last attack had to be done inside, with some more traction. Not even in my dreams could it have ended better! And on top of that it was beating Marquez, another extraordinary rider.

MotoGP Rnd Silverstone Marquez
Marc Marquez – Silverstone MotoGP 2019 – Round 12

“All the members of my team with whistles making a lot of noise … it was so much fun! I took my whistle onto the podium but in all the excitement I dropped it! In Austin the team got megaphones and at Silverstone they made sure to make a lot of noise with the whistles and cheering so loudly! They really celebrated. Then on the podium, Kepa, the Spanish national team goalkeeper and Chelsea goalkeeper, gave me the trophy – so we were almost all Spaniards … except Davide!

MotoGP Rnd Silverstone Podium Marquez Rins Viñales
MotoGP Podium 1) Alex Rins, 2) Marc Marquez, 3) Maverick Vinales – Silverstone MotoGP 2019 – Round 12

“One more beautiful thing was to see Sylvain there. He came to the parc fermé immediately and we had a big hug. He is doing a great job with this bike, as are all the people working in Japan! Thanks to everyone that helped me to get this second win of the season, and thanks to all the fans for their support too!”

MotoGP Rnd Silverstone alex rinsr
Alex Rins & Marc Marquez – Silverstone MotoGP 2019 – Round 12

Alex Rins is currently third in the MotoGP World Championship points standings. 

Source: MCNews.com.au

Second patent for ‘auto’ Suzuki Hayabusa

Suzuki Motorcycles has filed its second patent for a major upgrade to its Hayabusa speed demon with semi-automatic transmission.

The ageing Hayabusa has only had two major upgrades in its 17-year history as the world’s fastest production motorcycles of the last century.

While many are expecting turbo or supercharger technology, the two patents so far have been for a semi-automatic transmission.

The first patent in February 2018 details how actuators will be used to control clutch engagement and the shifting of gears.

Suzuki automatics patents in Hayabusa
Suzuki automatics patents in Hayabusa

So it’s not totally automatic as riders would still need to change gears but without the need to use a clutch.

While the patent application used a drawing of a Hayabusa, it was not necessarily meant for that bike.

Second patent

However, the second patent describes the gear position sensor, confirming that it is destined for the Hayabusa.

Hayabusa GSX1300 second patent
Second Hayabusa GSX1300

The rest of the drawings show the bike much as it is now which means it could probably be powered by the same 1340cc in-line four-cylinder engine with 148kW of power.

However, there is talk of a 1400cc version and possibly forced induction.

Suzuki president Toshihiro Suzuki has confirmed that Suzuki engineers are working on the new bike, but has not said when it would be due.

He says it will follow the same style, but gain several electronic riding aids.

Fastest rider Beccie Ellis on her Hayabusa Turbo - wheelie second patent
Beccie Ellis on her Hayabusa Turbo

There is not much they can do with the styling as the bike was designed to be aerodynamically stable at high speeds.

It was apparently designed on paper by aerodynamic experts, but not tested in a wind tunnel until several years later when it was confirmed the aero theories actually worked.

So when it was updated in 2008 and 2017, there was no need to change the shape. 

Auto push

The push toward automatics and semi-auto transmission is gaining momentum.

While most automatic two-wheelers are scooters with CVT, there is a growing list of motorcycles with auto or semi-auto clutchless transmissions.

Honda leads the way with its dual-clutch transmission in the Africa Twin, NC700X, CTX700, VFR1200X and NM4 Vultus.

Aprilia also has the automatic Mana 850 GT and even MV Agusta has a semi-automatic Rekluse clutch in its Turismo Veloce 800 Lusso SCS.

MV Agusta Turismo Veloce 800 Lusso practical
MBW rides the Turismo Veloce 800 Lusso SCS

Husqvarna is also offering an aftermarket automatic Rekluse X clutch option to upgrade their Vitpilen 401 and Svartpilen 401.

And many electric motorcycles are virtually automatic because the electric motor can be used as a direct-drive unit. It is similar to turning up the volume on an amplifier or turning up the “suck” on your vacuum cleaner.

Harley-Davidson employs this drive on their LiveWire electric motorcycle.

We have also heard unconfirmed reports that Harley has invested in American clutch company Rekluse which makes aftermarket auto clutches for Harleys.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

2020 Suzuki Katana is a rider’s delight

No matter what you think of the rebirth of the venerable “Katana” name and the neo/retro styling, the 2020 Suzuki Katana is a highly polished rider’s delight.

It officially went on sale in Australia on Thursday at $18,990 (ride away with 12 months’ rego), but about 50 riders had already paid a $1000 deposit, mostly ageing former Katana owners or sons/daughters of Katana owners.

Now, Suzuki Australia has to encourage young riders and new Katana converts.

However, be quick as only 4000 will be made, says Suzuki Australia marketing manager Lewis Croft.

If customers are attracted to its origami styling, they may just find a highly enjoyable bike that is as easy to ride fast through the twisties as it is to sedately filter through traffic.

That’s no mean feat for engine architecture derived from the GSX.

But Suzuki has done it with a superbly sophisticated and refined engine, transmission and MotoGP-inspired chassis.

Styling

Suzuki Katana is a rider’s delight
Silver and Glass Sparkle Black

This is the controversial aspect.

When the silver Katana was unveiled at the 2018 Intermot show in October and then the “Glass Sparkle Black” version at EICMA in November, opinions were sharply divided.

Katana devotees both loved and hated it as did those who weren’t Katana fans. Reminds me of the reception the original Katana experienced!Suzuki Katana is a rider’s delight

In the “flesh” this new Katana looks a lot better with high-quality fitment.

I prefer the silver as it looks more original and highlights the original’s lines and angles better.

There are a lot of faithful Katana lines such as the cut in the tank, the shark nose, two-toned seat, rectangular headlight and even the half-moon front fender.

But Katana devotees will find points to criticise.Suzuki Katana is a rider’s delight

To me, it seems the designers were trying too hard and made the design too complex.

But it certainly stands out and includes some neat modern features such as full LED lighting and a remote rear fender.

The biggest change is straight bars instead of clip-ons that make it much less ergonomically painful to ride than the original.

In fact, with its narrow seat and upright stance, it is extremely comfortable in the saddle, although the wide tank does splay your knees, so it could be painful for some people with hip problems.

At 825mm, the seat is much taller than the original, but I’m 183cm tall and I was able to plant both feet flat on the ground, still with a slight knee bend.

Motivation delight

The real delight of this bike is in the motivation: the engine and transmission.

Here is an interesting tech specs comparison to the original.

Suzuki Katana is a rider’s delight

But tech specs do not tell the real story of this bike’s motivation.

It’s simply so silky smooth with thick, creamy torque and a super-slick foolproof gearbox.

This combination virtually makes it like an automatic; just slip through to sixth gear by 60km/h and twist the throttle.

No need to shift gears. It will pull from 2500 revs in sixth at 60km/h to 4500 revs at 100km/h and on to dizzying revs and go-straight-to-jail speeds.

On the media launch through the border ranges of NSW and Queensland, most of the riders stopped changing gears after a while and just used fifth or sixth for everything.Suzuki Katana is a rider’s delight

Yet it delivered electrifying throttle response and rapid acceleration when you started tap-dancing on the gear shift.

It’s so smooth there is little character to the feel of the engine, but there is a lovely aural harmony of induction “woof” and exhaust growl.

Back into the heaving traffic on the Gold Coast, this maniac machine was suddenly docile, tame and so controllable as we filtered slowly through the traffic.

Lewis describes it as both “a city bike and a show-off bike”.

It certainly is with only about 200km maximum range from the 12-litre tank.Suzuki Katana is a rider’s delight

The engine is Euro4 compliant and no doubt will be updated for Euro5 within the next couple of years. It burns lean and blows a fair bit of heart on to your right foot in heavy traffic.

There are no engine modes, but three-strange traction control that can also be switched off, all on the fly.

My only concern is the heavy cable clutch which is non-adjustable. Although, it does have a clever low-rev assist feature which adds 500 revs as you let the clutch lever out.

This prevents embarrassing and potentially dangerous stalls if you’ve filtered to the front of the traffic! It’s a delight to use in stop-start traffic.

There is also an easy-start function where you just hit the ignition and it starts on its own.Suzuki Katana is a rider’s delight

The comprehensive instrument screen is big, like a max-sized phone, but some of the letters and figures are small and difficult to read.

You can operate all functions via a handy controller on the left switchblock and they are easy to use.

Suzuki Katana is a rider’s delight
Traction and instrument controls

Town and country

In town, the Katana is light and nimble and easy to slice through traffic with its tight turning circle and wide bars.

That also makes it great for twisting roads, although you don’t need to manhandle the bike to change direction.Suzuki Katana is a rider’s delight

It feels very light and the fully adjustable suspension (except for rear compression adjustment) is firm, but fair.

I backed off half a turn on the front compression to sort out some of the bumps on the backroads and it ploughed through without any headshake.

The big 310mm dual disc brakes have plenty of bite with good feel through the controls, although the ABS was a little jerky.

Lewis says the Dunlop RoadSport 2 tyres are specially made for the bike.Suzuki Katana is a rider’s delight

They feature a tread pattern that looks like it has been cut with slashes from a katana. The tyres heat up quickly and have excellent grip even on damp roads.

The combination of capable suspension and strong brakes make it a delight to whip through the bumpy and twisting roads of the Gold Coast hinterland.

Lewis says they have a long list of accessories including carbon bits, a black and red seat, protection, heated grips, smoked windscreen and red Brembo calipers.

He says buyers so far have spent an average of $1300 on the accessories.

There are also a Katana keyring, scale model and branded clothing.

ConclusionSuzuki Katana is a rider’s delight

I’m no Katana devotee and the looks don’t really appeal to me, yet I was won over by the ease of riding this bike hard as well as slow.

There may be more appealing neo/retro bikes on the market, but this is by far the rider’s delight of the pack!

Suzuki Katana GSX-S1000SM0 tech specsSuzuki Katana is a rider’s delight

PRICE $18,990 RIDE AWAY
ENGINE IN-LINE 4 CYLINDER, LIQUID-COOLED, DOHC
TRANSMISSION 6-SPEED WITH BACK-TORQUE LIMITING CLUTCH
FRONT SUSPENSION 43MM KYB FULLY ADJUSTABLE INVERTED FORKS
REAR SUSPENSION LINK TYPE SHOCK WITH ADJUSTABLE REBOUND & SPRING PRELOAD
FRONT BRAKES BREMBO RADIAL-MOUNT MONOBLOC CALIPERS, 310MM DICS WITH ABS
REAR BRAKES NISSIN SINGLE PISTON CALIPER WITH ABS
POWER 110kW @ 10,000RPM 
TORQUE 2180NM @ 9500RPM
COLOURS METALLIC MYSTIC SILVER / GLASS SPARKLE BLACK
SEAT 825MM
LENGTH 2130MM
WIDTH 835MM
HEIGHT 1110MM
WET WEIGHT 215KG
WHEELBASE 1460MM
FUEL CAPACITY 12 LITRES

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Suzuki Katana about to land in Australia

2020 Suzuki Katana Launches 8th of August

Last October at the International Motorcycle Show (Intermot) in Cologne, and fittingly the exact same location where the original Katana was unveiled near-on forty-years before it, Suzuki announced the return of the Katana, a motorcycle that draped many walls of dreaming teens, while ending up the pride and joy of many only to then manifest itself over the years into the cult classic that it is known for Worldwide.

Suzuki Katana
Suzuki Katana

Suzuki unveiled the new Katana with the instantly recognisable silver bodywork with red graphics/logo but the frame and engine was black bringing a modern slant to the re-imagination to the new Katana, though some models of the original Katana ran with a black engine too.

A month after the Katana reveal at EICMA a second colour was introduced with the addition of what Suzuki have labelled ‘Glass Sparkle Black’ which to you and I is a mean black with red logos.

Love it or hate it, much like the original, the new KATANA stirred a lot of interest and became the topic of much conversation through the motorcycling community, with social media videos views, comments and shares racking up millions.

The new Katana aims to achieve what the original started some 40 years ago, with the baton being firmly passed on and taken into the 21st century. Suzuki clearly have invested the upmost attention to detail with the aim of capturing the spirit of the original, with countless hours of testing and uncompromising quality control.

With high demand and limited supply available, Suzuki Australia have opted to offer the new Katana to eager customers by taking pre-orders exclusively online. The 8th August will mark the official launch date for Australian customers.

To sweeten the deal and as an added gesture of Suzuki’s appreciation to their customers, all who pre-order their new Katana online from the first shipment will also receive a bonus exclusive Katana themed Arai QV-Pro helmet, valued at $995 with their bike delivery.

Suzuki Katana Accessories Arai Helmet
Bonus exclusive Katana themed Arai QV-Pro helmet, valued at $995 with their bike delivery

With limited units available from the first shipment, interested customers are encouraged to place their order now via below

Source: MCNews.com.au

In Memoriam | Mitsuo Ito | First Japanese rider to win a TT

Mitsuo Ito passed overnight

安らかに眠る
Yasuraka ni nemuru


Mitsuo Ito, the first Japanese rider to take victory at the Isle of Man TT in 1963, passed away overnight (July 3) at the age of 82.

Mitsuo Ito
Mitsuo Ito on the top step of the podium at the Isle of Man TT in 1963

As an employee rider of Suzuki, Ito participated in domestic and international racing, including Road Racing Grand Prix from 1959 to 1969.

Mitsuo Ito
Mitsuo Ito

After retiring from racing, he took part in Suzuki’s racing activities including the development of racing machines and world-class technologies, as well as working with the development of Suzuki riders, including Kevin Schwantz, who went on to become the 500cc World Champion in 1993.

Mitsuo Ito
Mitsuo Ito

Ito was inducted into the Motorcycle Federation of Japan (MFJ) Motorcycle Sport Hall of Fame last December for his achievement in 1963 at the Isle of Man TT.

Mitsuo Ito
Mitsuo Ito
Mitsuo Ito
Mitsuo Ito
Mitsuo Ito
Mitsuo Ito
Mitsuo Ito
Mitsuo Ito

Source: MCNews.com.au

Suzuki MotoGP Team Manager Davide Brivio on the season so far

Davide Brivio reflects on MotoGP season 2019 ahead of Assen

After seven races in the 2019 MotoGP Season (not including Assen), Team Suzuki Ecstar’s Alex Rins was 3rd in the Championship (-39pt from the leader Marc Marquez, -2 from the runner-up Andrea Dovizioso) with one victory (GP of The Americas) and a 2nd place (GP of Spain) already under his belt.

MotoGP Rnd Assen QP Rins Q
Alex Rins qualified in third place for Assen this weekend

While the rookie Joan Mir, despite some ups and downs, has already scored an 8th place in Qatar and a 6th place in Catalunya, the youngster has been learning quickly and is showing stronger pace with each race.

MotoGP Rnd Assen QP Joan Mir
Joan Mir is fifth on the grid for the Assen TT

But perhaps what is most impressive are the detailed statistics of Rins; to take victory in Texas, he recovered 11 places from his starting position, and so far he is the rider with the best “recovery rate” this season – with 52 places recovered from qualifying to race finishes. Another impressive statistic is that since Misano last year, he has finished in the top 5 in 12 out of the 14 races, with 5 podiums.

MotoGP Rnd Jerez Rins Marquez GP AN
Alex Rins and Marc Marquez on the podium at Jerez – Image by AJRN

These solid results showcase a Team that has been capable of finding consistency, despite some troubles in qualifying. But where do these performances come from? Team Manager Davide Brivio has a privileged point of view inside the team and is the best person to explain some of the secrets behind these great comebacks.

MotoGP Rnd Jerez Rins Podium
Alex Rins on the podium at Jerez

Davide Brivio

“It is true that since Misano last year we found a positive path that led us to a series of good race results, which culminated in consistent top 5 or top 6 placements for Alex Rins. This is due to the improved performance of the GSX-RR, but also an important step that Alex made personally towards the end of last year. We should not forget that his first season was heavily affected by injuries, which delayed his apprenticeship of learning and growing, finally everything ‘clicked’ at the end of last year and he blossomed. The most important remark on this is the consistency that he achieved: he’s taken five podiums in the last fourteen races, and they were not down to luck, they are the result of his consistent presence in the leading group in the races. This was exactly our target and strategy: to grow as fast as possible and be consistently fighting in the leading positions to take advantage of any podium chances. Now, with these results, we are happy to be considered a consistent contender for the podium – or the victory – in any race, even at the tracks where in theory we should struggle more.”

MotoGP Rnd COTA Rins GP AN
Alex Rins won at COTA

The good results in races have also stemmed from difficulties, as Rins is often left to ride a ‘recovery race’ after tricky qualifying sessions.

MotoGP Rnd COTA Rins GP AN
Alex Rins celebrates victory – COTA 2019 – Image by AJRN

“Alex is proving to be a real race-animal,” Continues Brivio. “After the red lights go off he actually can find that extra performance that allows him to catch up and get into the fight for the podium. If we analyse the races of this year, it is true that he struggled in finding that killer instinct needed for the time attack, but it is also a matter of characteristics of the bike. Our objective in the development has always been to find a bike that is perfectly balanced, with excellent rideability. This translates into a machine that is perfectly set-up for race distance, with a good tyre management, which allows him to be competitive until the very last laps. Our next step will be to translate this balanced performance also in an improved efficacy in the qualifying time attack. Of course, some races have been complicated by the tricky conditions and sometimes unlucky situations in qualifying.”

MotoGP Rnd Jerez Mir GP AN
Joan Mir at Jerez

So, the philosophy of development is a crucial part of this process of improvement, because…

MotoGP Suzuki Ecstar Preview Joan Mir
Joan Mir

“In Suzuki the priority has always been to find a well-balanced bike” as Brivio says. “This is part of our company culture, and at the moment it is rewarding us with positive results. We are a team that is half European and half Japanese, so we have to mix the two cultures. We Europeans are more focused on the work at the circuits, while in Japan they do all the crucial behind the scenes development and deliver the base and the updates. We have struck a good balance and we have learnt to mix the two different approaches and philosophies. There is a lot of communication between the Team on track and the engineers at home, and some of the Japanese engineers come to every race, and then sometimes we go to Japan for some face-to-face meetings. Apart from that, nowadays modern technology allow us to stay in touch wherever we are, thanks to phones, messages, emails. This means the exchange of information and data is constant.”

MotoGP Suzuki Ecstar Preview Joan Mir
Alex Rins and Joan Mir of the Suzuki Ecstar MotoGP Team

Source: MCNews.com.au

Suzuki Burgman 200 scooters recalled

Suzuki Australia has recalled their 2017-19 Burgman 200 scooters over an issue with the CVT face plate which can prevent the scooter from moving.

The official recall notice issued through the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission says the fault is with the face plate on the Continuously Variable Transmission.

It may have moved, due to the improper shape of the holes where the rivets fasten the face plate to the motorcycle, the ACCC says.

“If the face plate moves, the motorcycle may not be able to be ridden as the broken face plate will prevent the motorcycle from moving,” the notice says.

burgman
CVT face plate

Suzuki Australia will contact all affected owners in writing to contact their preferred Suzuki dealer service department to arrange a free repair of the defect.

Consumers who require further information should contact Suzuki Australia on 1800 777 088.

The Vehicle Identification Numbers of the 199 affected scooters are listed at the end of this article.

We have published them in case the scooter has changed hands and Suzuki does not have the contact details of the new owner.Suzuki Burgman 200 scooter

Even though manufacturers and importers usually contact owners when a recall is issued, the bike may have been sold privately to a rider unknown to the company.

Therefore, Motorbike Writer publishes all motorcycle and scooter recalls as a service to all riders.

If you believe there is an endemic problem with your bike that should be recalled, contact the ACCC on 1300 302 502.

To check whether your motorcycle has been recalled, click on these sites:

• Australia

• USA

• New Zealand

• Canada

VINS of affected Burgman scooters

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Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

2019 Suzuki Adventure Ride Announced

2019 Suzuki Adventure Ride – July 6

Gold Coast to Warwick, Queensland


Join Suzuki and fellow riders on their next adventure ride event travelling from the Gold Coast to Warwick Queensland. Traversing the Gold Coast Hinterlands, Tyalgum, the Border Ranges National Park on simply stunning roads, its set to be an epic adventure.

Suzuki Adventure Ride Preview
2019 Suzuki Adventure Ride will be held July 6

The ride is free and during the day there will be two course options taken at various points along the ride with the group splitting into:

  • Group A – Designed for large adventure touring motorcycles such as V-Strom 650 and 1000 with a mix of dirt and tar. Rated 4/10 difficulty.
  • Group B – Designed for smaller more off-road focused adventure touring motorcycles such as DR650SE. Rated 5/10 difficulty.
Suzuki Adventure Ride Preview
2019 Suzuki Adventure Ride

There’s also an exclusive opportunity to test ride Suzuki’s latest V-Strom 650, V-Strom 1000 and DR650SE motorcycles at the conclusion of the ride.

Suzuki Adventure Ride Departure Options

OPTION 1: Meet at Springwood Suzuki
Departure Time: 8:30AM
112 Kingston Rd, Underwood
Ph. 07 3208 7999

OPTION 2: Meet at Sunstate Motorcycles
Departure Time: 9:30AM
2 Lawrence Drive, Nerang
Ph. 07 5520 2300

Suzuki Adventure Ride Preview
2019 Suzuki Adventure Ride

Suzuki Adventure Ride Accommodation

Saturday night a group dinner will take place @ 6:30pm with prizes and giveaways at the Cherrabah Resort.

Cherrabah Resort – Elbow Valley, is priced from $120 PP including a welcome drink, dinner and breakfast, book direct 1800 023 788. Camping is available at the resort from $15 PP, otherwise there are hotels, motels and a caravan park in Warwick.

Suzuki Adventure Ride Preview
2019 Suzuki Adventure Ride will be held July 6

To Register

Contact Suzuki Australia on:

Please provide your full name, address, mobile number, motorcycle make and model and Suzuki will send all information including instructions and a registration sticker prior to the ride.

Suzuki Adventure Ride Preview
2019 Suzuki Adventure Ride will be held July 6

Source: MCNews.com.au