All posts by mcnews

Tesla Autopilot detects lane filtering riders

Electric car company Tesla is further developing its Autopilot software that detects lane-filtering riders as shown in this driver’s YouTube video.

One of the biggest issues about the rapid move toward autonomous vehicles is how they will detect small and vulnerable road users such as motorcyclists, cyclists and pedestrians.

In one incident in San Francisco last year a lane filtering rider was hit by a Chevrolet Bolt electric vehicle being driven in autonomous mode.

And police had the hide to blame the rider!

The Australian Motorcycle Council and other motorcycle representative groups around the world have called on authorities to slow down the testing and introduction of autonomous vehicles.

A motorcycle industry group in the USA called Give a Shift went so far as to say that “the single biggest threat to motorcycling overall (particularly in urban and higher density environments) will be the incompatibility between autonomous vehicles and existing motorcycles”.

However, motorcycle, car and tech companies such as Bosch are continuing to work together to develop systems that better identify and communicate with each other.

So while we still have grave concerns, it appears technology is starting to find solutions that just might make us safer.

In fact, BMW Motorrad spokesman Karl Viktor Schaller declares they will make riding safer because autonomous vehicles (AVs) will be virtually crashproof.

Tesla Autopolit

Tesla has now launched its Version 9 software update to Autopilot 2.0+ hardware that has a more advanced “neural net” to detect smaller and faster-moving objects around the vehicle.

That includes lane-filtering motorcycles.

In the above video by Tesla Model 3 owner Scott Kubo, there are several examples of lane-splitting riders in LA travelling at much higher speeds than the 30km/h lane filtering maximum in Australia.

The system struggles at times to detect them both day and night.

Tesla detects lane filtering riders
Tesla detects lane filtering rider in video, but not on the sidescreen graphic.

In some cases it mistakes a bike for a car and in others the bike is in the next lane and passing right through cars!

Scott says drivers also use their ears to detect motorcycles and suggests an audio sensor to help the camera and radar sensors.

However, the bikes — including a couple of loud Harleys — are only audible for the last couple of seconds as they are coming from behind.

With the crackdown on exhaust noise and the coming wave of quiet electric motorcycles, an audio sensor would probably be pointless.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Aprilia 2019 USA Models Announced

The new model season is like Christmas here at MO, and reading Aprilia’s release just gets us even more excited about the 2019 model year.

Begin Press Release:


APRILIA USA ANNOUNCES 2019 MODEL YEAR LINEUP

The model range receives numerous improvements, announcing pricing, colors, and availability

WHO: Aprilia USA
WHAT: Aprilia USA 2019 Model Range Announcement

WHERE: Aprilia Dealerships Throughout the USA

WHEN: 2019 Year Models

DETAILS:

RSV4 RANGE

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

Aprilia 2019

RSV4 1100 Factory

Aprilia RSV4 1100 Factory – the latest step in this evolutionary line – boasts exceptional performance combined with a racing frame and suspension and an electronic controls package, both evolved even further. New for 2019, the RSV4 1100 Factory is the lightest, most powerful, and fastest RSV4 ever created.

Availability: March

2019 Colors: Atomico 6

MSRP: $24,499

Aprilia 2019

RSV4 1000 RR

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

Availability: March 2019
Colors: Grigio Rivazza, Nero Arrabbiata

MSRP: $17,499

TUONO V4 1100 RANGE

Simply unrivalled. The Aprilia naked range, heir to a family of motorbikes which has been voted over time as one of the most adrenaline pumping and efficient bikes ever, achieves absolute performance levels and sophistication, thanks to Aprilia’s know-how acquired over years of winning premier level competitions and the experience of the Tuono history, which is thus confirmed as being unbeatable on the track and endless fun on the road.

TUONO FACTORY

The new Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 Factory comes standard with the most advanced and efficient electronic suspension system currently available, the latest technological frontier offered by manufacturer Öhlins, developed in close contact with Aprilia engineers. With the upgraded electronic suspension, adjustable to suit any rider need, and along with the inherited RSV4-style tail section, the Tuono Factory is the model of choice for the performance-demanding rider that will not settle for less.

Availability: March 2019

Colors: Superpole

MSRP: $18,999

Aprilia 2019

TUONO RR

Tuono V4 1100 RR represents an exceptional thrill machine, the heir to a dynasty of naked sport bikes acclaimed by critics as the most effective and fastest bike in its segment. Fit with conventions Sachs suspension components; forks, shock and damper, the Tuono RR comes equipped with a dedicated passenger saddle making it the a more street-biased option among the two models.

Availability: March 2019
Colors: Rosso Sachsenring, Grigio Magny-Cours

MSRP: $15,499

900 RANGE

The most recent evolution of the 90-degree V-Twin from Noale is powered by a refined 900cc engine that guarantees torque values at the top of the category. Performance combined with an absolutely top shelf frame for rideability that raises the bar to new heights in the bike segment. Intuitive, powerful, and easy to handle, also now even more technological thanks to the new integrated navigation system in the instrument cluster.

Aprilia 2019

SHIVER 900

Aprilia Shiver 900 represents the most recent evolution of the original project of a motorcycle that, from its first appearance on the scene in 2007, marked a turning point as the first factory bike fitted with Ride-by- wire technology to manage engine throttle valve electronics. From city riding to more flowing routes, from mountain passes to touring itineraries, even long range, Shiver 900 invites you to fasten your helmet and set off in search of the best sensations on two wheels.

Availability: May 2019
Colors: Hi-Tech Silver, Innovation Dark MSRP: $9,399

DORSODURO 900

The supermotard from Aprilia evolves with the sole objective of providing maximum riding enjoyment, boosted by the updated powerful twin-cylinder engine. With 90NM of torque the Aprilia Dorsoduro is the fun bike par excellence. Born out of an ingenious intuition by Aprilia, it was built to exceed the benchmark from the Dorsoduro 750, providing the highest possibility of road riding fun, drawing from the best characteristics of sport bikes and supermotards. The result is a bike with advanced technical solutions, agile and with performance at the top of its category.

Availability: May 2019
Colors: Adrenalinic Silver, Exciting Black MSRP: $10,999

Aprilia 2019

SR 50 MT

Availability: In Dealerships Now Colors: Racing Black
MSRP: $2,199

Find out about other Aprilia events and current model offerings and special promotions at:Aprilia USA, and Aprilia Americas Facebook pages

The post Aprilia 2019 USA Models Announced appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

ASBK class structures and dates | Sponsors announced

ASBK 2019 Classes Announced

With Yamaha stepping away from being the overall naming right sponsors of the ASBK series as a whole, and no other company as yet stepping up to take over that mantle, Motorcycling Australia have put their own name to the overall series which is now to be known as the ‘Motorcycling Australia’s National Road Racing Championships’.

Motorcycling Australia has also this week officially confirmed the classes that will make up the 2019 Australian Superbike Championship in season 2019.

MotoGP ASBK Supports TBG Supersport Race Bayliss
Supersport 300 – Oli Bayliss leading the pack here but we believe he will step up to the Supersport 600 category for season 2019

Yamaha are still major naming rights sponsors of various categories such as YMI Superbike, YMF R3 Cup and the bLU cRU Oceania Junior Cup.

Kawasaki have taken up sponsorship once again of the Supersport category.

ASBK Rnd Phillip Island RM SS Parc Ferme Bikes
Kawasaki will again sponsor the Australian Supersport category

The YMI Superbike, Kawasaki Supersport and Supersport 300 categories will race at all seven rounds of the 2019 ASBK Championship, including the season opener staged in conjunction with the World Superbike Champonship round at Phillip Island in late February.

ASBK TBG Rnd Phillip Island Superbike Start
YMI Superbike Race One at Phillip Island in 2018 – TBG Image

The YMF R3 Cup will race at round two, four, five, six and seven.  The all new bLU cRU Oceania Junior Cup will see a grid full of budding hopefuls joining the ASBK paddock at the same rounds as the YMF R3 Cup, Wakefield, Morgan Park, Winton, Phillip Island and the Sydney Motorsports Park season finale.

ASBK Rnd Phillip Island TBG R Cup Hunter Ford
YMF R3 Cup 2018 Champion – Hunter Ford – Image by TBG

Sidecars will again join the schedule, this year at rounds two, five and six.

The trip down memory lane via the Superbike Masters will also continue with showings at Morgan Park and Sydney Motorsports Park.

2019 ASBK Calendar
  • Official ASBK Test – Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, VIC February 2 – 3
  • Round 1- WSBK – Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, VIC February 21 – 24
  • Round 2- Wakefield Park Raceway – Goulburn NSW March 22 – 24
  • Round 3- The Bend Motorsport Park – Tailem Bend, SA April 26 – 28
  • Round 4- Morgan Park Raceway – Warwick, QLD July 5 – 7
  • Round 5- Winton Motor Raceway – Benalla, VIC September 6 – 8
  • Round 6- Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, VIC October 4 – 6
  • Round 7- Sydney Motorsport Park – Eastern Creek, NSW November 1 – 3
Round Location Date SBK SSPT SSP300 R3 Cup OCE J Cup Sidecars Masters
ASBK Test  Phillip Isl 2-3 Feb X X X X X
Round 1 Phillip Isl 21-24 Feb X X X
Round 2 Wakefield 22-24 Mar X X X X X X
Round 3 The Bend 26-28 Apr X X X
Round 4 Morgan P 5-7 Jul X X X X X X
Round 5 Winton 6-8 Sep X X X X X X
Round 6 Phillip Isl 4-6 Oct X X X X X X
Round 7 Eastern C 1-3 Nov X X X X X X

Source: MCNews.com.au

Maxwell shakes down Team Suzuki Ecstar GSX-R1000R at Phillip Island

Former champion samples 2019 ASBK contender in Victoria.

Image: Russell Colvin.

Words: Russell Colvin

Two-time Australian Superbike champion Wayne Maxwell had his first taste of the Team Suzuki Ecstar Australia-prepared GSX-R1000R yesterday in a shakedown test at Victoria’s Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.

After not having ridden a Suzuki GSX-R1000 since 2013, which was the year when Maxwell stormed to his maiden ASBK crown, Maxwell admitted that yesterday’s outing felt foreign and different throughout the initial stages.

However, straight away the 36-year-old Victorian rider managed to get down to a lap-time that he anticipated, ultimately clocking an unofficial best 1ms33.8s around the 4.445km seaside circuit.

“It was a very positive day as the team and I worked through a range of particular things, including testing a new range of the 2019 Pirelli spec tyres,” Maxwell explained to CycleOnline.com.au. “I worked closely with Warren [Monson] and we managed to get the setting a lot better towards the end of the day. I believe now we have a direction where we want to go with the bike set-up.”

“I’m just really looking forward to getting back on the bike on the first weekend of February for the official ASBK test next year. I don’t believe we are quite there yet, but it’s realistically where we are at right now. At the end of the day, it’s a ride day. There is a fair bit of traffic on track, so to be able to get consistent laps becomes difficult.

“I need to improve and simply just build my confidence up. Along with that, I just have to familiarise myself with the team and they have to exactly work out what I want. It does make it difficult when we are testing stuff which they are unfamiliar with as well. I don’t have the best of feedbacks as I’m not familiar with the new Suzuki GSX-R1000R. In saying that, it’s only going to get stronger and stronger.”

When speaking of the GSX-R1000 he piloted to the 2013 championship, the only characteristic Maxwell was able to relate to the 2018 GSX-R1000R the fact that both Suzuki GSX-R1000’s had strong power.

“The Suzuki GSX-R1000 have always produced smooth power,” he added. “On top of that the bike does handle very well and holds its line and is extremely stable in the corner. Apart from that, the 2013 bike has obviously changed a lot to the current spec GSX-R1000R. The 2018 bike has all the latest and greatest electronics, traction control and other stuff.

“It’s a very different package to what I rode in 2013. In saying that, Phil [Tainton] and the team have done a great job in developing the bike since they’ve had it. I believe now with a bit of my input and what they already know, Josh [Waters] and I as team can move forward.”

Next time Maxwell and Waters will be out on track will be at the official ASBK test, which is scheduled for 2-3 February at the Island ahead of the curtain raiser, which takes place on the final weekend of February running alongside the opening round of the Motul FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK).

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

Laguna Seca included in updated 2019 WorldSBK calendar

American stop scheduled in for the ninth round of the series.

Image: Supplied.

Laguna Seca in the United States has been included in an updated calendar for the 2019 Motul FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK), filling the void for round nine scheduled on 12-14 July.

The 2019 championship is set to see the introduction of a three-race format, where race one will remain on the Saturday of each round, while races two and three will be hosted on Sunday, boasting a sprint-length outing on Sunday morning before a traditional-length encounter in the afternoon.

The opening round of WorldSBK will take place at Phillip Island on 22-24 February, before heading to Thailand for round two on 15-17 March. First of the European rounds is Aragon in Spain on 5-7 April, followed by Assen in The Netherlands on 12-14 April and Imola in Italy on 10-12 May.

Spain’s Jerez will host round six on 7-9 June before the series heads to Misano, Italy, on 21-23 June. Round eight is scheduled for 5-7 July Donington Park in the UK, while round nine is set to be hosted at Laguna Seca.

Following the European summer break, racing resumes on 6-8 September in Portugal ahead of round 11 at Magny Cours in France, set for 27-29 September. Argentina will host the penultimate round on 11-13 October, with series wrapping up in Qatar on 24-26 October.

2019 WorldSBK calendar:
Rd1- 22-24 February – Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, Australia
Rd2 – 15-17 March – Chang International Circuit, Thailand
Rd3 – 5-7 April – MotorLand Aragon, Spain
Rd4 – 12-14 April – TT Circuit Assen, The Netherlands
Rd5 – 10-12 May – Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari di Imola, Italy
Rd6 – 7-9 June – Circuito de Jerez, Spain
Rd7 – 21-23 June – Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, Italy
Rd8 – 5-7 July – Donington Park, UK
Rd9 – 12-14 July – Laguna Seca, USA
Rd10 – 6-8 September – Autodromo Internacional do Algarve, Portugal
Rd11 – 27-29 September – Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours, France
Rd12 – 11-13 October – Circuito San Juan Villicum, Argentina
Rd13 – 24-26 October – Losail International Circuit, Qatar

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

2-Stroke Amateur Nationals set for 2019 introduction

Three-round junior and senior two-stroke series a boost for Australian motocross.

Image: Foremost Media.

Williams Event Management, promoter of the Pirelli MX Nationals, is set to introduce a three-round series dubbed the Yamaha bLU cRU 2-Stroke Amateur Nationals in 2019.

The series, backed by Yamaha Motor Australia and endorsed by Motorcycling Australia (MA), will be open to both junior and senior competitors, and is designed with the intention of grooming youthful talents for international events, particularly the FIM Junior Motocross World Championship.

“I was fortunate enough to spend a week at Horsham for the Junior Motocross World Championship,” said WEM director Kevin Williams. “During that week I had the opportunity to speak with the people from the FIM and majority of the international riders and their teams about two-stroke racing.”

“I was managing the mechanics area therefore I had the opportunity to gain some valuable knowledge during these conversations and it became very obvious that Australia are behind the rest of the MX world in helping to prepare our junior riders for international events, so I met with MA and we put a program together that would help in this area.”

MA CEO Peter Doyle added: “MA has had a long relationship with WEM, and we are pleased to be able to work alongside them with creating a series that will aid in the development of the junior riders in preparation for international competition. We will be looking at the results of the competitors in this series, along with other event results, during the selection process for the Australian junior world team.”

“The senior two-stroke classes are a great opportunity for the dads and other amateur level riders to put some fun back into their racing as well as encouraging some legends of the sport to pull their boots back on for some healthy competition against prior rivals and team mates. Therefore, as the new two-stroke series unfolds, it will bring out a great camaraderie amongst everyone and help create a family-friendly environment within the sport.”

Round one will take place at Traralgon in Victoria on 10 February, followed by Coolum, Queensland, on 3 March, and Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, on 27 April. Junior classes include 65cc (9-U12 years), 85cc and 125cc, while senior categories will boast two-stroke all powers and retro two-stroke (plus 20 years age of bike frame and engine) divisions.


Source: MotoOnline.com.au

Scott Dual Raid DP Jacket & Pant | Adventure Gear

Scott Dual Raid DP Adventure Jacket & Pant

Pants $399.95 – Jacket $649.95


Scott Dual Raid DP Jacket

Scott Sports Dual Raid DP Adventure Jacket looks like a versatile option for long adventures where durability, ventilation and comfort are a necessity.

Scott Dual Raid DP Jacket
Scott Dual Raid DP Jacket

Featuring a removable DRYOsphere thermalliner, removable SAS‑TEC protectors and a breathable, wind‑ and waterproof construction, you can customise this jacket to any condition.

The jacket is equipped to take a neckbrace, alongside a comfortable collar with soft binding, while the collar itself can be run in open or closed positions.

Scott Dual Raid DP Adventure Gear
Scott Dual Raid DP Jacket & Pants

Ventilation in the chest, back and sleeves promote airflow, while the sleeves are removable, ensuring greater versatility.

A waterproof labyrinth closure system ensures the water stays out, claims Scott, while the SAS-TEC protectors are found in the shoulders and elbow, with room for an optional back protector.

Elbows are further reinforced with double fabric layers and reflective elements ensure visibility across most conditions.

Scott Dual Raid DP Jacket
Scott Dual Raid DP Jacket

Storage includes one inner pocket, and two water resistance waist pockets with handwarmers, two more chest pockets and a timecard and rear pocket.

There’s also room for a water bladder, adjustment at the hem, sleeve and cuff, and an extra strong coloured YKK FlexFix avant snap for closure.

The Scott Dual Raid DP Jacket weighs in at approximately 2.2kg and comes in sizes Small to 3XL for $649.95 RRP.


Scott Dual Raid DP Pant

Matching Dual Raid DP pants join the jacket and are as happy on the road as it is on the trail. The Dual Raid pant is designed to offer protection whatever condition riders find themselves.

Scott Dual Raid DP Pant
Scott Dual Raid DP Pants

Featuring 500D polyamide fabric with a removable breathable, wind- and waterproof three-layer DRYOsphere membrane, a breathable mesh lining ensures comfort.

Stretch panels ensure unencumbered movement, and climate control is offered by a ventilation system. Double fabric layers for reinforcement at knee and bottom offers a durable design, with SAS-TEC protectors at knee and pockets for optional hip protectors.

The hybrid knee protector pocket offers two height positions to allow for different riders, while reflective elements ensure visibility. Synthetic leather reinforcements with embossing inside the knees also provides additional protection.

Scott Dual Raid DP Adventure Gear
Scott Dual Raid DP Jacket & Pants

Two outer pockets offer storage space, while a snap and hook closure makes for easy use and a secure closure, with adjustment at the waist and hem. The pants weigh in at 1.4kg, and are available in Small to 3XL for $399.95 RRP.


Visit your local Scott stockist or see the Ficeda Accessories website for more information.

Source: MCNews.com.au

Suzuki officially confirm Chad Reed for AMA Supercross

Chad Reed on JGRMX Yoshimura Suzuki for 2019 AMA SX

Although the news has been out of the bag for some time, this week JGRMX/ Yoshimura/ Suzuki Factory Racing officially announced its race teams for the 2019 Monster Energy Supercross series that includes two-time 450 Supercross Champion Chad Reed alongside Justin Hill.

AMA SX Suzuki Chad Reed
Chad Reed on JGRMX Yoshimura Suzuki RM-Z450

Fourth on the all-time Supercross win list, with 44 main event victories, Reed is easily one of the most popular riders in the paddock, and will contest the 17-round 450 Supercross series on a Suzuki RM-Z450.

The 36-year-old had a busy off-season, sweeping the S-X Open in New Zealand and capturing the International FIM Oceania Championship. He looks to carry that success into 2019.

AUS X Open International Supercross FIM Oceania Championship SX Chad Reed
Chad Reed claimed inaugural FIM Oceania Championship in Auckland – Image AUS-X Open

Alex Martin will join Jimmy Decotis, Kyle Peters and Enzo Lopes in the 250 class. The four-rider 250 program will race with the all-new 2019 Suzuki RM-Z250.

AMA SX Suzuki
JGRMX Yoshimura Suzuki

Weston Peick, a 450 class favourite, will also return to the JGRMX/ Yoshimura/ Suzuki Factory Racing Team for his fifth year. However, due to a serious injury at the Paris Supercross in November, where he suffered multiple facial injuries, Peick will not be competing until he is healthy and ready. Peick is hopeful to return to the track this season. Until then, he will be signing autographs and meeting fans at various Supercross races.

AMA SX Suzuki Justin Hill
Justin Hill on JGRMX Yoshimura Suzuki RM-Z450

Source: MCNews.com.au

Tom Sykes rides the new BMW S 1000 RR in Almeria

BMW WorldSBK Test at Almeria

The BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team has completed a successful first test with the new BMW S 1000 RR in Almeria, Spain, with riders Tom Sykes (GBR) and Markus Reiterberger (GER).

Sykes and Reiterberger had previously taken to the track with the Superstock version of the new RR at the end of November, in Miramas (FRA). The riders provided feedback about the ergonomics and their change requests regarding the handlebars, levers, footrests, seat, tank, windshield and instrument displays were then implemented in Munich.

Tom Sykes

“I am very happy with the test. Of course, it’s still early days and there is still a lot of things to come our way but like this I was very happy with my feeling for my BMW S 1000 RR. The general feedback was good. We certainly had two very productive days testing, we changed quite some parameters on the bike and really understood some key areas to work with. It was a very positive two-day test for me and I was really happy and quite impressed with the end result. It was the first time in that new environment, the whole team working with each other and the engineers from BMW Motorrad Motorsport. So it was a new experience for everybody and soon everybody was working together like a clockwork. So it seems that we are progressing very fast and I got a good feeling within the environment in the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team.”

BMW SRR WSBK Tom Sykes
Tom Sykes

The first components developed specially for the WorldSBK, such as brakes and suspension elements, were used in Almeria. Both riders were able to complete a comprehensive programme of testing over two days without any problems. They developed a basis setup that will form the foundation for further work at the next tests in Jerez de la Frontera (ESP).

Markus Reiterberger

“The focus was on completing a roll-out with the new bike and for me to get used to the team and my new crew. It is all new for me: the team, the working methods and the Superbike version of the motorbike. The first outing with the new bike went very well. I felt right at home with the seat position and the handlebars from the word go. Our comprehensive programme of tests included a lot of work on the chassis, electronics, geometry and a host of setting options. We wanted to try everything out and pass on our experience to BMW Motorrad Motorsport and the team to allow them to work on preparation for the next tests. We are still at an early stage and our focus was on the functional tests. It was important to gather as much information as possible for the work that is still to come. We are very pleased with what we have achieved thus far and we are getting on well as a team. We are all working towards making progress together.”

BMW SRR WSBK Markus Reiterberger
Markus Reiterberger

BMW Motorrad Motorsport engineers and the team gathered valuable information for further development of the new race bike.

Shaun Muir, Team Principal BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team

“First of all, it was great to finally get the team together. We had two days at the circuit before the test, getting final material together, meeting and greeting and getting an understanding for the requirements of the test. The two days on the circuit proved to be very positive, too. Both riders did almost 100 laps each over the two days without any major issues. We worked our way through a very detailed test schedule. The key points for me were that the team are working together very well and that the comprehensive test of parts and material went very positively. We have a good base-setting for both riders and a good direction to go to Jerez. So overall we are very happy.”

BMW Motorrad Motorsport and the team also used the two test days in Almeria to get used to one another in the new team configuration.

Marc Bongers, BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director

“The objective of the testing in Almeria was a shakedown with the superbike. On the one hand, we were able to evaluate the modifications regarding the ergonomics and we have seen that both riders have a lot of confidence in the bike. We were also able to test the newly-developed WorldSBK components and we can see that we are moving in the right direction. We have gathered important experience for the next tests and we know what work we still have to do. Of course, after two days of testing the bike is still pretty much in its infancy but we are very pleased with the basics of the motorbike and with what the team has achieved in the last few months. At the next test in Jerez, we will encounter our competitors for the first time and will be able to see exactly where we stand. We are looking forward to this but we would also like to concentrate solely on our own tasks and will not get distracted by the competition.”

BMW S RR RHF Motorsport
Tom Sykes will ride the new BMW S 1000 RR in 2019 after switching over from Kawasaki

Source: MCNews.com.au

Honda Releases Pricing And Availability for 2019 CRF110F, CRF125F, CRF125F Big Wheel

A few staples in Honda’s dirt collection to get the youngsters into the sport are coming back for 2019. Below you’ll find pricing, availability, and more information on the 2019 CRF110F, CRF125F, and CRF125F Big Wheel.

Begin press release:


Honda has released pricing and availability for the 2019 CRF110F and CRF125F / CRF125F Big Wheel, which were revealed in November alongside the all-new CRF250F.

CRF110F

The heart of a racer beats in every youngster who watches Team Honda HRC factory riders Ken Roczen and Cole Seely on television or from a stadium seat. That CRF Performance Line technology and style have now reached the motorcycle for younger riders, with the all-new fuel-injected CRF110F. For 2019, this model features a Keihin electronic fuel-injection system that’s tuned for linear power delivery and precise throttle response, and is 50-state off-road legal. The easier-to-use power is matched to an all-new steel twin-spar frame that’s engineered with CRF Performance Line DNA but extensively tested and developed for the right balance of precision and comfort for recreational riders. The smooth power delivery and nimble chassis function together to offer a secure ride. The new CRF110F carries over its four-speed, clutch-less transmission for takeoffs and shifting that quickly become comfortable for every rider. An additional 12mm of rear-suspension travel and a 5mm increase in seat-foam thickness (without increasing overall seat height) mean improved comfort whether sitting or standing. And of course the CRF110F delivers Honda’s legendary build quality and reliability, so the bike dependably fires up every time the starter button is pressed and doesn’t stop until the tank runs dry—and when that moment is looming, the FI system provides a low-fuel warning light. A big benefit for the young rider’s “factory mechanic” is that the fuel-injection system eliminates the possibility of carburetor jets clogging with fuel residue if the motorcycle sits for an extended period—and reduced maintenance means more family time on the trail or track. The CRF110F boasts top-level performance in a small package—just like its rider.

2019 Updates

  • Follows technology developments of CRF Performance Line with Keihin electronically controlled fuel-injection system that delivers linear and hesitation-free power, minimizing intimidation for new riders and providing a friendly power delivery for all levels. Fuel-injection system delivers smooth power at all rpm and all throttle openings.
  • Twin-spar steel frame, inspired by the CRF Performance Line frame architecture, provides the right balance of rigidity and comfort.
  • New frame and 12mm increase in rear-suspension travel let this small bike handle the bigger bumps with better control and reduced bottoming.
  • New seat foam is 5mm thicker, yet bike maintains same overall seat height of previous model due to seat placement in the new frame.
  • New 1 gallon steel fuel tank with integrated fuel pump incorporates built-in fuel filter and low-fuel indicator on handlebar (lights up at .2 gallons remaining). New frame design shields tank in the event of a fall.
  • All-new bodywork with CRF Performance Line styling and graphics.
  • New handlebar-mounted multiple-function handlebar switch incorporates starter button, ignition “key on” indicator, fuel-injection system status, and “low fuel” indicator light (replaces reserve setting on petcock).
  • New ratchet-style fuel-tank cap reduces possibility of loosening during ride.
  • Half-waffle grips have a smaller circumference for an improved fit with smaller hands.

Engine / Drivetrain

  • Air-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke 109cc engine tuned for new riders.
  • Four-speed gearbox with automatic clutch.
  • Adjustable throttle-limiter screw to match rider abilities.
  • Convenient electric starter with kick-start backup.

Chassis / Suspension

  • Low seat height of only 26.3 inches.
  • Handlebar pad.
  • Meets current EPA and CARB off-road emissions standards.
  • Price: $2,399
  • Availability: March

CRF125F / CRF125F Big Wheel

CRF Performance Line technology such as fuel injection and twin-spar frame design is now bestowed on the CRF Trail Line, advancing the 2019 CRF125F and CRF125F Big Wheel into modern off-road motorcycles that maximize fun and ride enjoyment. The electronically controlled Keihin fuel-injection system delivers smooth, seamless, linear power at any rpm and throttle setting—ideal for new motorcyclists and equally advantageous for advanced riders on technical trails or when going through big elevation changes—and the model is 50-state off-road legal. The all-new twin-spar frame is made of steel and extensively tested and developed for a confidence-inspiring chassis wrapped in new body panels and graphics that match those of the model’s race-oriented CRF siblings. Both CRF125F models retain the proven 124.9cc SOHC engine and four-speed gearbox for strong power and intuitive shifting feel. In terms of hardware, the two versions differ only in wheel size, swingarm length and final-drive gearing, resulting in a difference in seat height of 1.8 inches. Instructors or parents will appreciate the peace of mind that comes with putting a rider on a secure and nimble machine, and maintenance is simplified with fuel injection—no jets to change or to clog with fuel residue if the bike sits for an extended period. Electric start, low-fuel indicator light, ignition “key on” indicator, and Honda’s earned reputation for making the best-built and most dependable motorcycles on the trail mean pride of ownership all week and fun and thrills every weekend.

2019 Updates

  • All-new electronically controlled Keihin fuel-injection system replaces carburetor. FI delivers linear and hesitation-free power for easier-to-control delivery at all points in the powerband.
  • Twin-spar steel frame, with heavy-duty design inspired by the frame architecture of the CRF Performance Line, provides the right balance of rigidity and suppleness for trail-bike comfort.
  • Suspension travel increased (by 10mm increase in front, 12mm rear) for improved plushness and better bottoming resistance.
  • New 1 gallon steel fuel tank with integrated fuel pump and fuel filter. Low-fuel indicator on handlebar illuminates when .2 gallons remain. New frame design shields tank in the event of a fall.
  • All-new bodywork and graphics match styling of CRF Performance Line.
  • New handlebar-mounted, multiple-function switch incorporates starter button, ignition “key on” indicator, fuel-injection system status, and low-fuel indicator light. (Replaces reserve setting on petcock.)
  • New ratchet-style fuel tank cap reduces possibility of loosening during ride.
  • Half-waffle grips have a smaller circumference for a better fit with smaller hands.
  • New seat foam is 5mm taller, yet seat height on the standard version is only 2mm higher, due to seat placement in the new frame. (Seat height on Big Wheel version isn’t increased from 2018.)

Engine/Drivetrain

  • The 124.9cc SOHC engine returns with smoother, more linear power delivery.
  • Four-speed gearbox is well matched to the broad power spread.
  • Electric starter makes getting going a breeze, with kick-start backup included.

Chassis/Suspension

  • CRF125F and CRF125F Big Wheel have seat heights of 29.1 inches and 30.9 inches, respectively.
  • CRF125F has wheel sizes of 17 and 14 inches front and rear, respectively. CRF125F Big Wheel has 19- and 16-inch wheels.
  • The 31mm fork provides plush front-suspension action.
  • Pro-Link® rear-suspension design with sophisticated single shock for consistent action.
  • Smooth stopping power provided by hydraulic front brake with 220mm rotor and 95mm rear drum brake.
  • Front brake lever is adjustable to work with varying hand sizes.
  • Styling follows that of the race-winning CRF Performance Line.
  • Meets CARB and EPA off-road emissions standards.
  •  Price
    • CRF125F: $3,099
    • CRF125F Big Wheel: $3,499
  • Availability: March























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