Have you ever found out the hard way that waterproof gear has a use-by date after which it is totally useless?
Two pairs of boots, two pairs of gloves, a jacket and several pair of pants have failed me after as little as five years of periodic use.
This is despite the fact that I look after my gear and store it in a cool, dry cupboard.
Waterproof warranty
I’ve checked all my waterproof gear and none offers a lifetime guarantee.
Also, note that “weatherproof”, “water-resistant” and “water-repellent” are not the same as “waterproof”. These terms mean the garment is rarely watertight even in light showers when you are riding.
This rating consists of two numbers. The first from 0-6 measures protection from foreign bodies such as dust, while the second from 0-9K measures resistance to water. Click here for more details.
Also note that your supposedly waterproof gear may only be guaranteed to be impervious to water in some areas or just have watertight pockets.
Waterproof warranties are typically the same as the garment which is usually from one year to about three years.
Manufacturers could fit jackets and pants with more robust and heavier waterproof membranes and offer longer warranties.
However, that would impact on comfort, weight and price.
So it’s important to look after your waterproof gear.
Failures
Caught in the rain
One of the main problems with waterproof failures is that you may not notice a fault in your gear when you put it on.
And even the most minor fault, crack or split can suck in moisture when you are riding at highway speeds!
There can be a number of reasons for waterproofing failures:
Waterproof leather gear is usually the first to give in because it can age and crack;
Boots can develop minuscule cracks in the soles from simply walking around in them;
Racing boots with bolt-in toe sliders can become loose as they repeatedly hit the ground, allowing in water;
Waterproof pants can develop small tears in the lining or you can dislodge the glued-on taped seams if you pull them on while wearing your boots; Waterproof pants lose their taped seams and lining from years of use
Folding waterproof garments can cause them to wear and split at the creases;
Carrying waterproof gear on your bike scrunched up on a rack and secured by Occy straps can cause rips and wear;
Gore-Tex pants and jackets should last a long time, but the outside layer can get worn from rubbing in areas such as the armpits, crutch and backside;
Zippers can become rusted from rain and road grime and even waterproof zippers can become gummed up by dust and bugs; and
Machine washing your gear can remove or destroy the watertight capabilities of some materials.
Waterproof care
King Canute found he could not hold back the tide and maintaining waterproof riding gear can be similar.
However there are some things you can do:
Boots will last longer if you only wear them on the bike and do limited walking.
Regular treatment of leather with shoe polish, special softeners and waxes such as Dubbin may help prolong their waterproof life;
Take your boots off before pulling on waterproof overpants;
Re-spray your textile gear with waterproof sprays;
Store your gear in a cool, dry cupboard;
Hang your jackets and pants and never fold them;
Always allow wet gear to dry in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight before storing;
Carry waterproof gear in a safe place in your backpack or bike luggage, preferably rolled up, not folded;
Give zippers an occasional spray with silicon or rub them with an appropriate wax to help the zipper slide smoothly and last longer; and
So you should periodically wash your gear before storing it away.
When washing your gear, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. They usually stipulate a hand wash or gentle, warm-wash machine cycle.
Long, hot machine washing cycles can limit the waterproofed life of a garment.
Never use fabric softener when washing and most manufacturers warn against tumble drying or ironing.
However, note that some materials, such as Gore-Tex, actually require tumble drying or ironing after washing to restore their waterproof qualities. Watch this instructional video.
“The majority of wet claims I believe are mainly due to incorrect usage or fitment,” he says.
“You can have the best jacket in the world, but if you don’t get all the closures correctly positioned, ensure your shirt collar or cuffs aren’t exposed (which creates a wicking point for water entry) you will still get wet.
“If you wear gloves over your cuff, water penetrates through the jacket stitching in the chest and arms, runs down between the outer shell and the outside of the waterproof liner (so the rider is still dry) and drains straight into the gloves. This is not a glove issue but a rider fitment issue.
“Likewise with waterproof boots. I see riders buy ‘shorty’ waterproof boots and then complain they get wet feet.
“If you have a look at their rain pants when their feet are on the pegs, the rain pants may ride up just enough to allow water into the boots.”
Ron Grant tests waterproof gear
Ron warns that water will finds its way into that 1% vulnerable area in your whole riding ensemble and spoil your ride.
He says he left for work recently in the pouring rain on his Triumph Tiger 800 fitted with a new, large touring screen to protect him from the elements.
“This new screen creates a bit of a vacuum between the screen and I could see water droplets swirling around in front of me around my throat area,” he says.
“I didn’t really think about this too well, but I had pulled my neck-sock on before fitting my jacket as it’s more comfortable that way.
“The droplets eventually soaked my neck-sock which wicked the water downwards wetting my jumper and shirt. My waterproof jacket didn’t fail, it was the dummy wearing it that failed!”
In his first competitive outing since round two of the FIM Motocross World Championship, Glenn Coldenhoff lined up on home soil for the Dutch International onboard the new GasGas Factory Racing MC 450F machine. A strong start in race one enabled Coldenhoff to shadow race leader Romain Febvre for the duration of the moto, making a charge for the lead as the race neared its conclusion. The 29-year-old was able to pull to within one second of the race lead, ultimately ending the moto in a strong second place.
Glenn Coldenhoff
Moto two saw history made with Glenn Coldenhoff taking GasGas’ maiden international motocross race win. Charging to the moto two holeshot, a small mistake on the opening lap relegated Coldenhoff to second position before he formed part of a four-rider battle for the win. Able to take control of the race at the halfway stage and withstand pressure from many of his MXGP rivals, Glenn took the race victory and with it the overall win.
Glenn Coldenhoff MX1 winner
“It felt great to be back racing. I’ve worked really hard and put in a lot of time training and riding and it showed today. Ahead of this weekend I picked up a small foot injury and I was unable to ride for five days but it’s fully healed and I’m 100%. Qualifying was good, third place. My reaction on the start wasn’t great in race one and I had to push hard to move forwards. I was riding a little tense as I’ve not raced for such a long time so second place was a great way to return to racing. In race two I pulled a huge holeshot. I then made a little mistake and dropped back to second. I was able to regain the lead at the halfway point and then it was a charge to the end, we were all pushing so hard for the win and I’m really happy to have taken the race and overall win for myself and the team.”
Glenn Coldenhoff
Romain Febvre = points with Coldenhoff
“It was my first race for five and a half months so it was great just being behind a starting gate again! I was fastest in the timed practice period, got two good starts and had two good motos; it was even better than what I could expect for such a race as you inevitably feel tense when you didn’t race for a while. I had a good feeling all day long. The first moto was good as I led from start to finish. In the second race I was second behind Coldenhoff and passed him after a few laps; I was leading the race but the track was rough as usual in The Netherlands and I made several small mistakes. Glenn and Paulin passed me, but then I could overtake Gautier again to finish just behind Glenn. It was a good weekend; I’m very happy with everything – the bike, the team, my condition – and now we have one more race next weekend in Axel before the MXGP of Latvia.”
MX2
Jed Beaton made a strong start in race one, ending the opening lap in third place. Among a frantic group at the head of the field, Beaton’s FC 250 machine powered him into first position on lap four as he led many of his MX2 World Championship rivals. Slipping back to third place the Australian kept the lead riders in sight during the remaining laps of the race.
Race two in Arnhem was somewhat uneventful for Beaton. After working on his starts over recent months, he fired out of the gate and ended lap one in a strong fourth place. At the midway stage of the race the Australian was in sixth, shadowing his teammate Thomas Kjer Olsen who later tipped over on the final lap, gifting fifth position to Beaton. With his 3-5 moto finishes, Jed placed fourth overall.
Jed Beaton
“It was great to be back racing today and get some gate drops ahead of the GPs starting again. It’s been a long time since we’ve been racing so the nerves were back and it was good to get them out of the way before Latvia in two weeks. I rode a little tight in the first moto, which is to be expected after so much time off the bike. It was great to lead some laps during the middle part of that race. I’ve been working on my starts a lot lately and that showed today, two good starts and I tied for third overall with almost all of the MX World Championship riders so I’m really happy with where I’m at.”
The Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Racing Team has signed Broc Tickle for the 2020 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross season to fill in for Aaron Plessinger who continues to focus on his return to full fitness after a training injury last week.
Plessinger dislocated his wrist while training for the upcoming Outdoor season earlier this month at Fox Raceway in Pala, California. The 2018 250MX Pro Motocross Champion underwent surgery to repair it and quickly began the rehab process, but unfortunately the time-line for recovery could take 12 weeks.
Tickle is eager to make his debut aboard the factory-prepped Yamaha YZ450F at the season opener at Loretta Lynn’s Ranch on August 15. The 2011 250SX West Champion brings a lot of experience to the effort and is ready to get rolling with his new team to get some top results in the Outdoor season.
After being delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross schedule is action packed with nine rounds starting with the season opener in mid-August in Hurricane Mills, Tennessee and finishes in Pala, California on October 10.
Jim Roach – Yamaha Racing Department Manager for YMUS
“Unfortunately, Aaron was injured last week just as we were ramping up for the start of the motocross season. We are excited to have someone with Broc’s experience on the Monster Energy Yamaha Factory team and are looking forward to getting the Pro Motocross season started!”
Broc Tickle – Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Racing Team
“I’m super excited about this opportunity and grateful to be a part of the Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Racing Team for the outdoor season that starts up here in a couple weeks. For myself, I’m just really looking forward to it. It’s a great opportunity, and a good group of people around me. We’ll start off at Loretta’s and build from there.”
2020 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Calendar
2020 Australian Motocross Championship update
Further to the recent announcement by Motorcycling Australia (MA) that the management and promotion of the 2020 Australian Motocross Championship will be brought in house and the intention of announcing a five to six round MX calendar this week, MA can provide a further update for teams, riders, its members and motocross fans across Australia.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, MA has constantly and closely monitored the heath crisis developments and has regularly been in consultation with the national sporting body – Sports Australia and government departments to receive the latest updates and advice. The recent COVID-19 outbreaks in Victoria and NSW over the past two weeks, and the increasing restrictions being imposed, have forced a re-evaluation of the original September to November time-line, although M.A. are still hopeful of a late September start if possible.
These circumstances have now resulted in a delay in announcing the 2020 Australian Motocross calendar as MA, its partners and its host clubs work tirelessly to ensure a multi round championship is possible for 2020.
All efforts are still focussed on an east coast based championship, but any final decision and announcements will depend on government COVID-19 rules and regulations at that time. MA remains committed to communicating regularly with the national MX community as updates become available.
Further announcements will be made in due course.
Moto News Weekly proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Motorcycling Australia Events Update
Motorcycling Australia (MA) is monitoring the current health crisis developments which is impacting the running of Australian National Championships across the country.
Due to the recent spike in cases in Victoria and NSW, the following events scheduled for late September to early October are currently under review. The final decision regarding these events will be announced on Monday 17th of August 2020. Should further information be available at an earlier date, this will be communicated.
KTM Australian Junior Motocross – 26 September-3 October – Rockhampton, QLD
GASGAS Australian Trial Championship – 26-27 September – Bangor, SA
Australian Junior Track Championship – 26-27 September – Gunnedah, NSW
Australian Classic and Post Classic Dirt Track – 3- 4 October – Temora, NSW
2020 Australian Senior Track Championship – Cancelled
In response to the ongoing developments and health concerns in relation to Covid-19 and Government imposed restrictions on travel and border closures, the Tamworth Motorcycle Club (TMCC) in consultation with Motorcycling Australia (MA) have made the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 Australian Senior Track Championship schedule for 19th – 20th September at Qurindi Showgrounds in NSW.
With daily Government policies in relation to Covid-19 travel, border closures and restrictions the TMCC in consultations with MA have come to the conclusion that it now impossible for the event to continue.
Discussions are being held with MA for the TMCC to hold the 2021 Australian Senior Track Championship at Qurindi next year.
The decision to cancel any Australian Championship is not taken lightly by MA and we take this opportunity to apologise for any inconvenience caused by this required decision.
All riders who have entered the event will be contacted by TMCC Club President – Paul Slade in due course.
Moto News Weekly proudly brought to you by Dunlop
e-FMX World Championship series
As the countdown gets closer to the upcoming e-FMX World Championship series with NIGHT of the JUMPs and the all new Mobile Game, TiMX : This is Motocross, 4 more names have joined the first season of competitive Freestyle Motocross gaming.
Taka Higashino (JPN)
Unfortunately, due to the continuing delays on Google’s Play Store and Apple’s App Store, the most recent update for both platforms has continued to be mixed in with the slow approval process on each online store which all App Developers are currently experiencing.
At NIGHT of the JUMPs, the decision was made in the interest of a far greater experience for both the Professional Riders in this competition, and fans of our content, by delaying the start of the first season with just a short amount of time to allow Google and Apple to clear their backlog of App Updates in this difficult time. In the meantime, Aussie Adrenaline, the creators of TiMX have been working around the clock on more features for the game for subsequent updates.
NIGHT of the JUMPs are proud to announce the next 4 big name FMX riders who will compete in the opening e-FMX World Championship series including X Games Gold Medallist and one of the most stylish riders on the planet, Taka Higashino (JPN).
Having competed at NIGHT of the JUMPs in Tours, France (2015), Taka Higashino is Japan’s greatest FMX export when he became the first Japanese rider to compete in X Games, and has taken 3 Gold Medals in Freestyle MX discipline throughout his career. Taka is also known as the creator of the California Roll body varial, a trick which he will be able to land within the new Mobile Game.
Taka Higashino (JPN)
While Taka is a trick machine, one of America’s next generation Freeriders who looks for the craziest jumps he can find, Colby Raha (USA), will also join the series. Raha has also bagged a couple of X Games Gold Medals, in the discipline of Quarter Pipe Highest Air (2017) and the Real Moto video series in 2019. Raha is all about Freeriding and throwing the dirtiest whips over the gnarliest of jumps which he showed in effortless style at the first ever Freeride Competition, Red Bull Dirt Diggers in 2019.
Colby Raha (USA)
The Italian Warhorse, Massimo Bianconcini will also step up to compete in the first ever eSport series with NIGHT of the JUMPs. Throughout his stellar career at NIGHT of the JUMPs, Bianoconcini has set the Highest Air record of 11.5 metres in Torino, Italy in 2012 and also has taken 5 Highest Air Championship titles, and also the Silver and 2 Bronze Medals at X Games Step Up. Throughout Bianconcini’s career at NIGHT of the JUMPs, he has continually battled Jose Miralles in FMX and Highest Air. These two World Championship judges will now go head to head against each other in the first round of the e-FMX Championship for bragging rights in the Judges Box.
Massimo Bianconcini (ITA)
Australia has continually fostered all new FMX talent, and in 2020 it seems this will continue with the inclusion of the Aus-X Open FMX Best Trick Winner, Jayo Archer. After landing his first ever Double Flip in competition and taking the gold over Australia’s Double Flipping champion, Josh Sheehan, Jayo has turned his sights on another of Sheeny’s legacies, the Triple Backflip.
While Jayo is currently training to try land the Triple Flip from the Moon Booter, he will be putting his time into trying to pull as many virtual backflip rotations on each jump to take down Sheeny in the first round head-to-head battle in the new TiMX FMX tournament. If Jayo can land the Triple Flip from the Moon Booter, it could also signal a massive change to FMX for the future, as Josh Sheehan is the only man to land the trick from the mammoth one-off ramp at Travis Pastrana’s house in 2015.
Jayo Archer (AUS)
NIGHT of the JUMPs is proud to announce the Social Media Partnership with Extreme throughout the first season of the e-FMX World Championships. For over a quarter of a century, Extreme has been involved in all things Action Sport from Television Show production to Extreme Sport Events, and this partnership within the esports world represents some of the early over that Extreme are making into the fast growing industry. Fans of Extreme will also be able to watch the entire e-FMX World Championship series Live from the Extreme Facebook channel, and watch the recap videos across their social media channels.
FC Moto, one of the world’s biggest Motorcycle Parts and Gear Retailers and Online Stores has backed the production of the all new e-FMX World Championship. With FC Moto’s expertise in the Online world, opening an all new market of Virtual Sport and accessibility for fans to view the action and vote for their favourite rider has just become so much easier.
The updated Start Date will be released in the very near future.
Colby Raha (USA)
e-FMX World Championship series First 12 of 16 players confirmed
Letter of the Month I’m seriously considering the new Yamaha MT-03 for my first bike (“Little Big Fun,” May 2020). I don’t like fairings, so the naked style is more in line with what I like aesthetically. All of the standard features on this bike (ABS, LED lights, etc.) cost extra on all of the other bikes I’ve researched. I’m about 5-feet, 10-inches tall and when I sat on this bike and an R3 the MT-03 definitely felt bigger to me; the seat was more comfortable as well. All the thought and engineering (like making the brakes not as touchy) that went into this bike for first-time riders is appealing to me. I know I’m just starting out and want to enjoy it while I’m learning and not be stressed about having a bike that’s too much for me. I want to ride around town and get better on a bike built for newbies, so I can love riding as much as the experienced riders down the road. All the reviews and research I’ve done make it sound like this will be a great fit. Brook, via ridermagazine.com
Brook, if only I had your wisdom and foresight when I first became a licensed rider, I suspect my learning curve wouldn’t have been so steep. Choosing a bike like the Yamaha MT-03 is incredibly wise for a multitude of reasons. Between the approachable weight, manageable physical size, and welcoming performance, the MT-03 and bikes in the lightweight class are all perfect platforms to begin building the skills needed to become an experienced rider, down the proverbial road. When you do pick up your new bike, be sure to let us know! As our Letter of the Month winner, our friends at Michelin would like to send you a Michelin branded beverage bottle and Nelson-Rigg tank bag! –NdS
The Z Finally Comes Home I guess you could say that I’m suffering from the “isolation blues.” I’ve been spending a lot of time reading my Rider magazines and watching videos of motorcycles online. Anyway, all that did was to make me want a new Kawasaki Z900RS, which I ended up buying a couple weeks ago. There was a 2020 available but I chose to get a 2019 since it was offered in the candy-tone orange and brown like the original Z1 back in 1973. I liked your review on the 2018 model when it first came out and also liked the Rider Comparo with the 2020 Z900RS, Suzuki Katana and Honda CB1000R (“Return of the UJMs,” March 2020). However, I couldn’t help but notice the difference between the 2018 and the 2020 Z900RS on your dyno charts. I noticed that the 2020 model made about five horsepower and five lb-ft of torque more, at 200 rpm lower. Did Kawasaki make any changes to the engine since 2018? Was a different dyno used? Or is this just a case of one bike being a little better or different than the other?
I started riding in 1974 (a very good year) and admired the Z1 but didn’t have enough experience or money and had to settle for a 1975 Kawasaki S1 (250 triple 2-stroke) for my first new bike, which I don’t regret. I’m very glad that there are more retro models because, at 68 years old, I can’t get used to some of these strange-looking models coming out nowadays. I hope I can keep riding for many more years and of course I hope I can always have a new copy of Rider on my nightstand. Thanks for all the great magazines over the years! Glenn Dupre, Houma, Louisiana
Glenn, although that difference in power output could be the result of some minor undocumented changes Kawasaki made for emissions or other reasons, it’s more than likely just slight manufacturing and break-in differences between the two bikes combined with environmental differences on the dyno days not accounted for by correction factors. Other variables such as chain tension, rear tire type and tire pressure can also play a role.–EIC
Rider Mag Hits the Airwaves Just wanted to say a big “thank you!” for the new podcast. It’s great to hear the personalities behind the written words. Keep up the good work! Alan McCain, via email
Rider’s podcasts are available on SoundCloud, Stitcher and iTunes. Check ‘em out! –EIC
In the Eye of the Beholder Some bikes’ functionality looks great on paper but in person they just don’t work. Other bikes have an aesthetic beauty only appreciated in person. My BMW R 1200 CLC was a good example and even then it got down to personal taste. I will have to eyeball the new 2021 BMW R 18 before casting judgment (Kickstarts, June 2020). I do like the lines and have to agree with others that the muffler could be considered either Art Deco or Art Millennial. Tubeless tires are a must, spokes or not, although the spokes speak to the rendering BMW is attempting to express. Pin stripes left off the base model though, come on BMW, that is just too cheeky! You can do better than that for the base price. Overall, I would give it a thumbs-up but I’d need to look at the beast in person for a final opinion. Phillip Upham via ridermagazine.com
Learning Experiences The Harley-Davidson/Aermacchi SXT-125 (Retrospective, April 2020) was the first motorcycle I owned as a new rider, and I was completely unprepared for the problems this bike would give me. At first glance it was a very handsome bike in great condition, hardly used. I felt lucky to find this gem, and in fact it seemed too good to be true. As I was riding it home I couldn’t have known that would be the first and last time I ever rode it. The oil injector never worked right and the bike smoked horribly. Eventually the electrics burned themselves out and I spent more money trying to fix it and get it working than it was worth. I eventually sold the bike for next to nothing to someone much more resourceful, both mechanically and financially, who had an interest in the bike for its unique place in motorcycling history. Alicean, via ridermagazine.com
Two-Smokin’ My senior year of high school I purchased the Harley/Aermacchi in a 175cc configuration as an upgrade from my first bike, a Honda CT50. This was in Germany, as my Dad was stationed there in the Army. I don’t know if there was a U.S. 175cc version. It was quite fun and, as someone else mentioned, the Germans didn’t know what to make of this “motocross” looking bike on the street. Interestingly, the tank and fenders were steel. It was so much fun zipping around Europe and I still love the “ring-a-ding-ding” of a 2-stroke. David Bradley via ridermagazine.com
Reigniting the Flame I recently bought a yellow V-Strom 1050XT (“Evolution of Adventure,” April 2020 and “Chasing Giants,” page 44 this issue). I’m a massive fan of the old TL1000R sportbike and the moment I test rode the Strom, the love for the TL came flooding back. I’ve had BMW GSAs in the past but would never go back to one now. This thing is just so much fun and, since I spend 99% of my time on roads (as Suzuki knew most ADV riders do—gravel roads are not “off-road”), this beauty fits the bill. Handling is so sweet and the way it develops power generates a face-cracking smile. The old V-Strom was good but a bit bland to look at, while this one just fires me up (beauty in the eye of the beholder)! Greg, via ridermagazine.com
Dreaming of Comparisons Great review on the 2020 KTM 390 Adventure (“Adventurous Aspirations,” June 2020). Looks like a suitably quirky and capable dual-purpose bike ideal for exploring the back lanes. Question is, how will it stack up against the mighty Royal Enfield Himalayan? The Himalayan is way down on power and way up on weight, but I think its character and torque might swing it for me. Ian Hadcocks via ridermagazine.com
The Times They Are a-Changin’ Eric Buell is an American hero, alongside the likes of Glen Curtiss and Jimmy Doolittle (Retrospective, March 2020). Harley-Davidson also deserves our praise for its courage, stepping out of its comfort zone and venturing into new markets like electric and ADV bikes. Will they succeed? Who knows? But I think that had the Buell line met H-D’s hopes and expectations, the LiveWire would have the Buell name slapped across the tank! Phil “General T” Nelson
Honda’s CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP superbike has been inducted into the prestigious Red Dot Design Museum in Essen, Germany.
It took centre stage along with their electric car, the Honda e, in a “Milestones in Contemporary Design” exhibition, as one of the 76 best products of 2020 and a current marker in international product design.
The CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP was awarded a Red Dot for outstanding design in the motorcycle category while the Honda e was recently awarded the highest award, the ‘Red Dot: Best of the Best 2020’ for product design.
Red Dot awards
Each year since 1955, the “Red Dot Design Award” has been assigned to the most original and worthy entries in terms of design and innovation.
A jury of 40 international design experts made their selections after evaluating more than 5500 products in a host of categories.
Winners are permitted to display a prestigious Red Dot label on their product.
There are awards in 36 categories including, furniture, watches, electronics, financial services and retail.
Red Dot awards are handed out to many of the entries, but only the cream of the crop receive a Best of the Best.
Companies use the distinction to position their brands and thus highlight their quality and design leadership around the globe.
Earlier this year Ducati Diavel won the company’s third “Best” win in the Red Dot Awards, following the successes of the 1199 Panigale in 2013 and the XDiavel S in 2016.
Fireblade SP judgement
Red Dot CEO Peter Zec says their judges put the superbike through its paces over several days to test its performance, in addition to assessing its functionality and design.
“The Fireblade deserves the Red Dot because the jury liked it very much – and we have really crazy judges that challenged the bike, including a professional racing bike rider,” he says.
“It’s not just good design – it has perfect performance too, which is the main reason why it received the Red Dot.”
In its assessment, the judging panel commended the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP for its racing-inspired design, well balanced lines and aerodynamic styling.
Judges also praised the fun experience it delivered and outstanding performance when tested.
Its minimalist frontal area, aggressively angled side fairings and extended lower fairings – plus a variety of apertures, slits and air-channelling shapes – combine to create a best-in-class drag coefficient.
Aerodynamic ‘winglets’ as used on Honda’s MotoGP RC213V racing bike combine eye-catching form with uncompromising function, hugely increasing downforce and stability for ultimate control of the most powerful inline four-cylinder engine Honda has ever made.
Honda e
The electric car received the highest honour as well as an award in the meta-category ‘Smart Products’.
The Honda e is a key part of Honda’s commitment to see all its car model ranges in Europe electrified by 2022.
For 2020 both the Africa Twin and Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES offer more power and better handling, with a larger parallel twin-cylinder engine carried in a lighter, stiffer chassis. The Adventure Sports ES adds a barrel-full of adventure-touring features such as electronic semi-dynamic suspension, spoked tubeless wheels and tires, cruise control, a larger 6.5-gallon tank and more.
Honda’s CRF1000L Africa Twin was a little late to the adventure-bike party when it was introduced for 2016, but the bike immediately established itself as a solid performing, less-expensive (and often lighter) alternative to the dominant European liter-class ADVs. Nine inches of suspension travel at each end, good ground clearance and 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels gave the bike notably good off-road handling for a 500-pound motorcycle, and it offered enough on-road manners for light sport-adventure riding and touring, too. The availability of a DCT version with automatic transmission expanded the bike’s customer base (about 37% are purchased with DCT), and some found DCT made the bike easier to ride off-road. For 2018 Honda added long-range “Adventure Sports” DCT and manual models with a larger fuel tank and more suspension travel, made minor engine changes to both to beef up midrange power and gave them throttle-by-wire. Today Honda says it has sold 87,000 units worldwide and that the Africa Twin is now the #2 best-selling liter-class adventure bike.
Despite its success, there was still room for improvement to the 2019 Africa Twin and Adventure Sports models in both directions—on-road and off. Off-road-oriented riders wanted less weight, and street and touring riders objected to the tall seat height, tube-type wheels and tires and lack of cruise control, particularly on the Sports. More power would be a plus for both camps. So for 2020 Honda has enhanced the sportiness and off-road performance of the Africa Twin, and increased the long-haul capability of the Sports, starting with a larger, more powerful engine.
Long-distance on- and off-road riders will appreciate the Adventure Sports ES model’s 2-inch lower seat, especially when riding two-up. Honda also offers a 1-inch lower seat as an accessory.
Lengthening the stroke 6.5mm in the AT’s liquid-cooled parallel twin has brought displacement up to 1,084cc from 998cc, which contributes to a claimed 6% power increase along with revised valve timing and larger throttle bodies. On the Jett Tuning dyno the new mill pumped out 92 horsepower at 7,600 rpm (redline is 8,000) at the rear wheel and 69.5 lb-ft of torque at 6,300, an improvement that is quite noticeable throughout the powerband and really helps when you’re riding with a passenger and a full load. At the same time the engine is smoother now, and there’s less of the airbox noise that some found bothersome. Engine weight is down about 5 pounds thanks to new aluminum cylinder sleeves and revised counterbalancer gears, and both transmissions received numerous changes for more strength, a lighter clutch lever feel in the manual transmission and cornering detection via the new IMU in the DCT automatic.
In place of the former pressed-steel unit, a lighter new high-strength steel frame has been engineered for better front-end and rear tire feel and improved handling under braking. The CRF450R-inspired aluminum swingarm is stiffer and shaves weight, and the rear subframe has 40mm narrower seat rails (so the seat is narrower too) and is a lighter bolt-on aluminum piece now versus welded-on steel, which also makes it replaceable if it gets tweaked in an accident.
Since both AT models share the same engine and the unique changes to the Africa Twin mostly involved slimming the bodywork and removing the rear rack to save weight, here we’re focused on the new Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES, which has been given the full long-distance ADV bike treatment. Highlights include Showa Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment (EERA) semi-dynamic suspension, new tubeless spoked wheels and tires, cruise control and a nearly 2-inch-lower adjustable seat (now comparable in height to the Africa Twin’s). Heated grips, a larger skid plate, aluminum rear rack and a 12-volt outlet are standard on the ES as well. With my 29-inch inseam I couldn’t even touch the ground on the previous Adventure Sports; now I can get the balls of both feet down and plant one foot solidly at stops. Cruise control and tubeless tires will be game changers for the Africa Twin line, too, since many riders consider them mandatory for any kind of touring machine.
In addition to informing the suspension, traction control and ABS, the Africa Twins’ new 6-axis IMU informs its new 3-stage LED cornering lights, which make a noticeable difference in bends at night.
The new Africa Twins share a vastly expanded electronics package with a new Bosch 6-axis IMU enabling all sorts of fun stuff. Engine braking control returns and the range of intervention for the 7-level HSTC, or traction control, has been expanded. New interventions include cornering and off-road ABS, rear lift control and 3-level wheelie control. The IMU also informs new cornering lights up front on the Sports ES, and can make changes to the damping in its new semi-dynamic electronic suspension. Four of the ride modes—Tour, Urban, Gravel and Off-Road—set the power output, engine braking and ABS to preset levels for those conditions, and two User ride modes allow the rider to create custom presets—you could create one for sport riding and one for off-road, for example, customized for your skill level or load. Wheelie and traction control and suspension preload are adjusted independently in all six modes, using either the button-heavy switch cluster on the left bar or the touchscreen at a stop.
Just to keep it interesting, three different display modes for the beautiful new 6.5-inch TFT touchscreen allow you to see varying amounts of information, from everything to just the basics. Smartphone and GPS connectivity is included, and it’s also Apple CarPlay compatible like the Honda Gold Wing—as long as you have a Bluetooth helmet headset and your iPhone is connected to the bike’s USB port, CarPlay allows you to do more on the fly rather than stopped since you can use Siri to get directions, play music, etc. Overall the media options are very comprehensive, and CarPlay puts it over the top.
Underneath the bright 6.5-inch TFT touchscreen is a small LCD display that keeps a speedometer and gear indicator in view while using CarPlay.
As the owner of a 2018 Africa Twin, I’m not ready to kick sand on my bike just yet, but the new models have made a huge leap forward in just two years. Now that the seat on the Adventure Sports ES is low enough for me, its 6.5-gallon tank—good for more than 300 miles of range from regular gas—is a real attraction, and its tubeless tires mean not having to carry or deal with tube-type tire changing tools on a serious backroads ride. The ES has a larger fairing, tall adjustable windscreen and hand guards that provide substantial lower and upper body wind protection, and its load capacity is quite good at a measured 443 pounds as tested, or 466 after subtracting the weight of the Honda accessory aluminum panniers that we installed. These 37- and 33-liter quick-release bags are quite rugged, versatile and very easy to install, and with mounts the pair weighs 35 pounds total. They are on the pricy side and can’t be left unlocked, a minor inconvenience if you key them the same as the ignition. Now that it has tubeless tires, the accessory centerstand isn’t as vital, but I would still add it for chain maintenance at least.
Most riders will love the ES model’s Showa EERA suspension, which constantly adjusts for conditions in real time and offers 4-level preload adjustment at a stop and four overall damping modes, Hard, Middle, Soft and Off-Road. These can be changed on the fly by changing preset ride modes, and customized in the two user modes. Off-Road is intentionally on the soft side, but firms up quickly based on the suspension stroke speed over bumps and ruts. Since the bike’s fixed spring rates determine its suspension baseline, as is often the case among the larger ADVs, the EERA’s rates are on the soft side for comfort on-road and a moderate pace off-road. That’s a good thing for most solo riders, since you can just raise the spring preload and firm up the damping to compensate for a faster pace on some gnarly dirt. Two-up and fully loaded adventurers, on the other hand—depending upon how close to the load capacity they get—may find the bike needs more spring at both ends for sport and off-road riding. Overall, though, the system works impressively well.
A taller adjustable windscreen and wider fairing increase wind protection on the Adventure Sport ES, and its larger skid plate protects more of the engine’s tender bits.
With the suspension firmed up and a twisting road unfolding in front of you, the Africa Twin clearly handles more sharply than before, with less fork dive under braking, neutral, effortless steering and good grip from it stock 90/10 Bridgestone Battlax A41 tires. Braking up front has a soft initial bite—presumably for dirt riding—that gets stronger as you apply more effort, and the rear brake has a strong, linear feel. In Off-Road mode the ABS adjusts for loose surfaces front and rear, and it can also be turned off in back.
Passenger comfort is pretty good on the ES, with a wide flat seat and easy-to-reach grabrails on the large rear rack, which is ready for an accessory top case and backrest. For easier stand-up riding the Adventure Sports formerly came with a higher handlebar than the base Africa Twin, and now its bar is about an inch higher as well, so the bikes share both handlebar and seat heights. The overall position is pretty comfortable for long rides, particularly since taller riders can raise the seat, and the bar can still be rotated back for road riding. Serrated footpegs have rubber inserts for comfort on-road and I didn’t notice any vibration in the seat, grips or footpegs.
When you consider that this is only the Africa Twin line’s fifth model year, it’s pretty remarkable how much the base bike has been refined in such a short time, and that both actually weigh less and make more power than last year. With more separation between the versions—one for sport riding and ADV terrain and the Adventure Sports ES for long hauls and dirt roads—we really do get the best of both worlds.
Polaris owners can now connect with their local dealers digitally.
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As the global leader in powersports, Polaris Inc. (NYSE: PII) is driven to continually improve the customer experience and make powersports ownership simple, seamless and personalized. Through its digital strategy, Polaris is leveraging technology and digital solutions to offer industry-leading tools that break down the barriers of ownership, enhance the ride, build affinity and loyalty with riders, and help to introduce new people to powersports.
“Powersports provides people with an escape from demanding lives and a sense of empowerment, fun and freedom in the outdoors – that is the experience we want to help enhance for riders, while also creating a hassle-free ownership experience,” said Vic Koelsch, Polaris’ first chief digital officer. “At Polaris, innovation doesn’t stop at the vehicle design. We believe in disrupting ourselves, bringing fresh thinking and differentiated ideas to all elements of powersports and finding new ways to connect with riders. We are creating a more integrated experience and using technology to both enhance our current digital offerings and introduce new solutions, an approach that today’s riders expect from the leader in powersports.”
RideReady
Today, Polaris announced RideReady, an industry-leading, on-demand digital platform built to make servicing and maintaining off-road vehicles (ORV), snowmobiles and motorcycles convenient and easy. RideReady provides easy online service scheduling options, personalized vehicle and maintenance information, transparent service pricing, appointment reminders and notifications, along with how-to content for owners who prefer the “do-it-yourself” approach.
For scheduling options, RideReady connects powersports owners with Polaris and Indian Motorcycle dealerships to seamlessly manage their service needs. Through participating dealers, owners can easily schedule service appointments online. In addition to drop-off appointments, select dealers are offering transport service, where they will pick-up a customer’s vehicle and bring it to their dealership; as well as mobile service, where owners can schedule appointments online with a dealer and have a certified technician come to their home to perform the requested services in their garage. Service method options vary by dealer.
“Through extensive research, customer interviews and focus groups, it became very clear that owners are looking for a consistent, comprehensive, and convenient service solution – simply put, they want service that is flexible and will work around their schedule,” said Koelsch. “Whether you are a do-it-yourselfer, have a curious mind or prefer to have a certified professional service your vehicle, RideReady was designed with powersports owners in mind.”
Following a successful pilot program at 20 ORV, Slingshot and Indian Motorcycle dealers throughout Minnesota and Texas, Polaris has started to roll out RideReady and, over the next couple of months, is giving dealers in its U.S. off-road and motorcycle network the opportunity to participate in the program.
“We are excited to launch this game-changing service platform and connect riders and dealers in a manner like never before. A first-of-its-kind service partnership with participating Polaris and Indian Motorcycle dealers, RideReady provides dealers with another way to build customer relationships while driving traffic and growth to their service department,” Koelsch continued. “We look forward to signing more dealers and offering the service to our customers.”
Owners can log on to RideReadyService.com and set-up an account and their virtual garage to gain access to maintenance information and service recommendations, ‘how-to’ content specific to the registered vehicles, schedule online service appointments with participating local dealers and manage all of their vehicle maintenance and service needs.
New Account Experience
In addition to the launch of RideReady, Polaris also has elevated Polaris.com and Indian Motorcycle.com Accounts by creating a more personalized, integrated experience that brings together vehicle and riding information to create a one-stop-spot tailored for owners, including easy-to-find vehicle specs and information, maintenance records and recommendations, maps of recent rides, online purchase history and, soon special offers and experiences. This first-in-the-industry experience seamlessly integrates with Polaris’ other digital offerings like RideReady and Ride Command, so all the owners’ vehicle activity and information is available within their one convenient Account.
Ride Command
Polaris has been an industry leader in the digital space since it introduced Ride Command in 2016. Revolutionary in the powersports industry, Ride Command was the first-ever trail and mapping website and app in powersports. This transformative technology connects vehicles and riders, providing a fully integrated experience, from navigation features and group ride options to vehicle diagnostics and audio and video systems. For those without the in-vehicle display, Ride Command is also available as a free downloadable navigation app that can be used on a mobile device. Learn more at RideCommand.Polaris.com and RideCommand.IndianMotorcycle.com.
The folks over at the International Motorcycle Shows have developed a new online platform dubbed ContinueTheRide.com, giving users around the world access to a plethora of information.
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ContinueTheRide.com Featuring Digital Products Spanning Podcasts, Video Series, And More
Hosted on ContinueTheRide.com, IMS’ expansion into digital products takes a dual-pronged approach: providing in-depth analysis for industry-professionals and offering a hub for enthusiasts to be entertained, educated, and inspired year-long.
SANTA MONICA, Calif., July 20, 2020 — Today, the Progressive® International Motorcycle Shows® (IMS), the industry leader for connecting powersports’ top brands with enthusiasts and buyers, announces the pre-launch of ContinueTheRide.com, a platform that will host a slate of new digital content all designed to reach and support industry-facing professionals as they address industry challenges and opportunities, as well as educate new and existing enthusiasts inside the world of motorcycling, powersports, and all things two-wheeled conveyance. ContinueTheRide.com will officially launch July 24th and will include:
Business-facing Content
Centerstand: A Motorcycle Industry Podcast
A Continue The Ride Blog dedicated to the industry-professional
Bi-monthly e-newsletters exploring the content above
Consumer-facing Content
The Reserve Tank, a consumer-facing podcast
Inside the Garage, a do-it-yourself (DIY) video series
IMS Rides, a video series exploring exciting routes, communities, and rider personalities
A Continue The Ride Blog dedicated to the new and experienced rider
Sweepstakes and Contests
Bi-monthly e-newsletters spotlighting the engaging content above
To subscribe to the e-newsletter and learn more about the IMS digital products visit ContinueTheRide.com.
“IMS has been at the center of the industry for 40 years now, successfully connecting all sectors of the motorcycling community while supporting and growing with the industry,” said Tracy Harris, Senior Vice President, IMS. “Our deep bench of industry knowledge and long-standing customer relationships are the driving forces behind the creation of our digital products.”
“Our expansion beyond in-person events into digital products enables us to bring new and old friends together while sharing knowledge and expertise between the broad community of motorcycle/powersports enthusiasts and industry-professionals year-round. Each digital product was produced and curated to have content relevant for everyone; I highly encourage enthusiasts of all experience levels to check out the entirety of ContinueTheRide.com and immerse themselves in the fun and engaging world of riding while even inspiring a new rider or two,” continues Harris.
A renewed industry momentum with reported increased sales of motorcycles amid the COVID-19 pandemic presents a great time for returning riders as well as those looking for safer transportation alternatives, and even new riders, to begin exploring the diverse lifestyle of motorcycling. “Not only is the industry seeing an unexpected sales increase— but there is a new energy with existing riders who see a great opportunity to get outside where the roads are less busy. We all want and need to further increase motorcycling interest and the ‘Centerstand Podcast’ will be a chance to hear from industry insiders about their perspectives and ideas to benefit all of motorcycling. I look forward to the great conversations and being part of new ideas with the IMS team,” said Robert Pandya, host of the B2B Podcast “Centerstand” and IMS’ Discover the Ride Program Manager.
All IMS digital products have been curated and produced with topics speaking to each sector within the powersports industry – aftermarket brands, manufacturers, the supply chain, and more – and how to unify the aforementioned touchpoints to spur industry growth, as well as all levels of experience and interest across the broad range of riding lifestyles in the community from actionable tips to ride safer to picking the correct gear, grow and build a powersports business, tune-up an old bike, discover new routes to take, and much more.
Digital Content Hosted on Continue The Ride Website Include:
Podcasts
“The Reserve Tank” will be hosted by avid rider and IMS content creator, Sam Bendall, where we will introduce well-known and experienced personalities in the motorcycle industry to offer listeners a ‘Reserve Tank’ of knowledge and resources spanning hot topics in motorcycling today. Topics include how to get into ADV riding, tips to build a riding community, where to find training, find the right gear, and more. “The Reserve Tank” will consist of a 10-episode season with a new 25 – 30-minute podcast premiering monthly and will also be available everywhere listeners find their podcasts. Tune into the first episode on July 20th, featuring lifestyle motorcycle publication, META.
“Centerstand: A Motorcycle Industry Podcast” will be the B2B conversation hosted by motorcycle industry veteran, new rider advocate, and IMS’ Discover the Ride Program Manager, Robert Pandya. Listeners will have a unique opportunity to hear from key players in all sectors of the industry. With a focus on the future, the podcast will seek to spark ideas that will leave listeners with 1 -2 pieces of actionable advice. “Centerstand” will consist of a 10-episode season with new bi-monthly episodes premiering on Wednesdays. Tune into the teaser episode on July 22nd where Robert discusses the upcoming content of the podcast series.
Video Series
“IMS Rides”is where a diverse group of riders will showcase their personalities as they ride on their favorite route in their communities—highlighting the roads and venues they stop along the way and speak to why their route is their favorite. Supplemental episodes will dive deeper into practical tips and tricks to help riders explore similar routes on their own. The first episode of “IMS Rides” will premiere August 7th, visit ContinueTheRide.com for updates on future guests.
“Inside the Garage”is a DIY series featuring various Community Garages, Service Shops, Mechanics, and Custom Builders from across the U.S. where they’ll share their tips, tricks, and tutorials on basic motorcycle maintenance that viewers can perform in their own garage. After each episode premiere, there will be a live Q&A allowing viewers to ask the garages questions from the DIY task at-hand. Catch the first episode of “Inside the Garage” on the IMS YouTube channel here.
Continue The Ride Products
TheContinue The Ride Blogis the go-to place for motorcyclists to find quick, bite-sized content about all-things motorcycling. The blog will feature hot topics from the Continue the Ride podcasts and video series’, to product reviews and interviews with motorcycle personalities.
Continue The Ride E-Newsletter is a bi-monthly newsletter that will include content from the podcast and video series’ premieres, new blog content, giveaways and contests, and more. Subscribe to the newsletter on the bottom of the ContinueTheRide.com main page.
Sweepstakes and Contests will be featured on the site to give motorcyclists and new riders the chance engage with Continue The Ride and get excited about scoring new parts, gear and accessories to enhance their riding.
If museums ever open, Moto MMXX at the Museum of Craft and Design is surely not one to miss.
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The Museum of Craft and Design presents cutting-edge, custom motorcycles from around the globe
Showcasing the Innovative Craft and Design of Custom Motorcycles
On view August 22, 2020, through January 3, 2021, Moto MMXX features twenty leading-edge motorcycles such as the H1L, from the movie ‘Fast and Furious’
San Francisco, CA (July 23, 2020)–The Museum of Craft and Design (MCD) presents Moto MMXX, opening August 22 and on view through January 3, 2020. Originally slated to open in May of 2020, Moto MMXX was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. MCD is implementing strict protective measures, including sanitation stations and directional signage to safely welcome visitors to view Moto MMXX once the state mandate is lifted. Masks will be required by everyone, including children over two years old, to enter the museum. Additionally, beginning September 1, a virtual 360 recording of the exhibition will be available at sfmcd.org.
Moto MMXX is a cutting-edge custom motorcycle exhibition showcasing innovative, international builders, such as Jens vom Brauck (Germany), Jack Watkins (Poland), Jay Wen (United Kingdom), and Kurosu Kaichiroh (Japan); as well as photos, sketches, and renderings that reveal the creative process behind these unique builds.
The Museum of Craft and Design’s Executive Director, JoAnn Edwards notes:
“Moto MMXX teases us with a contemporary evolution of neat, sculptural packages of transportation, featuring hand-built motorcycles from an international A-list. Iconically California-driven, motorcycles embody West Coast culture as a source of identity, a way of life, a measure of freedom and a way of embracing the ride of life. Moto MMXX will no doubt spark imaginations and trigger a much needed diversion from our current troubled times.”
Reflecting a broad range of techniques that builders employ, guest curator Hugo Eccles offers a glimpse behind the curtain of the custom motorcycle scene, allowing visitors the ability to experience both the finished ‘design’ and the ‘craft’ behind the glossy machines. Co-founder and director of Untitled Motorcycles, Eccles has built custom motorcycles for both private clients and for factory brands such as Ducati, Triumph, Yamaha, and Zero. Of the exhibition, Eccles comments:
“It’s fascinating to see how different builders approach and execute their work. We are truly lucky to have a number of European builders involved. Some builds have never been exhibited in America before, and although they might be familiar to followers of motorcycle blogs, there’s no replacement for seeing actual motorcycles ‘in the metal’ in person.”
Moto MMXX will challenge the audience’s perception of the traditional motorcycle and highlight possible directions that the industry is going, can go, or should go. In choosing the builders, Eccles wanted to represent the spectrum of ‘custom’: from the wholly traditional handmade to computer-aided design and manufacturing, utilizing state-of-the-art technologies like computer-numerically-controlled (CNC) machining and 3D printing. Whether generated by hand or digitally, the motorcycles on display offer insight into contemporary and forward-thinking processes.
Jack Watkins, Watkins Motorworks, M001, 2018
One example of a custom builder utilizing state of the art technology is Watkins Motorworks’ Jack Watkins, a Gdańsk University of Technology lecturer with a Ph.D. in mechanical design. Watkins designed and built the M001 utilizing his skills in 3D technology and was able to achieve some near-impossible tasks such as getting the engine mounting points right and manufacturing his own jig to weld everything together. Nearly everything on the M001 is meticulously custom made; it took four years just to design the front end of the M001. Powering this technological marvel is a BMW R 1150 RT engine from 2002.
Jay Wen, ETT Industries, H1L (Fast and Furious), 2017
Moto MMXX will feature extraordinary electric motorcycles such as the H1L(also known as the Fast and Furious motorcycle), created by UK based ETT Industries. Debuting for the first time in the US, the H1L was produced alongside Universal Pictures as a licensed product to support the film the Fate and the Furious (alternatively known as Fast and Furious 8). With the continual rise of electric motorcycles as a credible alternative to the internal combustion engine and never-ending advancements in technology, new opportunities have presented novel challenges for motorcycle builders. In describing the H1L, ETT states:
“With new technology comes new aesthetics and with that, a new language begins to evolve between rider and environment. H1L (a first of its kind, limited-edition electric motorbike) tears down what we know and boldly tells us what is coming, what to expect, and most importantly, where we are going.”
Eccles has included an expansive array of builders in Moto MMXX, including globally-acclaimed designer, Joey Ruiterwho will showcase a brand new build, No_Moto. Ruiter is known for pushing through the boundaries of the norm and stripping back the traditional so radically, that the result is jaw-dropping. No_Moto is no exception.
Moto MMXX will highlight twenty category-defying motorcycles from the past decade; each motorcycle is a one-off or a prototype for future batch runs. All the motorcycles presented are working and rideable, some built for speed, some for beauty, and some as a provocation. Each custom motorcycle in Moto MMXX provides visitors a new vision of what is possible in this industry.
The 2021 KTM 450 Rally Replica is the closest most of us will ever get to riding Toby Price’s factory rally machine.
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OUT NOW: THE 2021 KTM 450 RALLY REPLICA GAINS SHARPER EDGE
KTM’s READY TO RACE mantra is perfectly channeled in the 2021 version of the KTM 450 RALLY REPLICA. In recent years, this limited production model has gained elevated status thanks to the components and performance that have come directly from requests by Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Toby Price, Matthias Walkner and Sam Sunderland. This is a motorcycle designed to excel in multi-stage cross-country rallies, to satisfy even the toughest demands of the rally racer and to win.
The fiery 450 cc SOHC fuel-injection motor is wrapped in a competition-based chassis with a series of finer details to denote the exclusivity of this machine. Those specs include refined WP XACT PRO closed cartridge suspension with sophisticated Cone Valve technology and purposeful aerodynamics and ergonomics crafted for peerless handling across a wide breadth of terrain.
For 2021, KTM has honed the engine package with a brand-new gearbox and revised shift mechanism. The direct influence of PANKL Racing Systems materials inside the KTM Motorsport department meant technicians were able to further hike the bike’s excellent reliability, but also benefit the rider with a larger gear spread.
The habits and styles of the three Red Bull KTM Factory Racing riders – all of whom have sampled Dakar Rally winning success in the last half a decade – assisted in the finalization of gearing ratios. The result is that the KTM 450 RALLY REPLICA now comes with the same gear ratios as those advocated on the machines of Dakar Rally champions.
Stefan Huber, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Rally Team Leader:“The work goes on! We’re proud of the 2021 KTM 450 RALLY REPLICA. With this model we have already set the bar very high in giving the customers a product so close to what we prepare and take to rallies across the world. Of course, we always make new discoveries, and this means the 2021 bike is a significant upgrade. The gearbox construction and configuration will make a difference to the riders who want to push the KTM 450 RALLY REPLICA. It is crucial for us to be able to transfer what we learn directly into the hands of KTM riders. We’re here to win races but making a better product is very important and satisfying. I personally look forward to seeing this incredible machine in racing action at the upcoming 2021 Dakar Rally!”
The 2021 KTM 450 RALLY REPLICA is a highly sought-after, limited edition model restricted to 85 units worldwide. The price tag is fixed at EUR 25.900 (plus VAT & shipping) with availability from September 2020 onwards. A service and support package is available for a limited number of riders at the Dakar Rally at an additional cost for all KTM Rally models. For more information, please refer to your authorized KTM dealer or visit www.ktm.com.
“Our rookie Alex Marquez has done a very good job,” said Team Manager Alberto Puig. “The objective was to finish the race and reduce the distance with the leader. Last week, this gap was 27 seconds, today instead it was only 19 seconds, this is almost eight seconds gained, it is a lot, especially given the conditions. He had a good pace, but he still needs to understand the bike on new tyres. From our technical and racing point of view we are very happy because he is learning and understanding each race. Not crashing helps you take more steps and be faster every time you get on the bike.”
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