The latest model releases from the two recent motorcycle shows in Milan and Cologne prove that power is still king in the two-wheel world.
A new road leader has emerged and some older models have been pushed down the order.
The list of the most powerful is still dominated by the track-only Kawasaki H2R at 240kW.
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New road king
However, the new king of the road-registered bikes is the 2019 Ducati Panigale V4R.
With 162kW of power it leapfrogs Honda’s RC213V-S which rates 158kW with a track kit, equal to the MV Agusta F4RC.
The V4R has been homologated so Ducati can go World Superbike racing again, so it is 998cc, not 1103cc.
Despite having fewer cubes, it has more poke.
Two bikes joining the top 10 are the updated BMW S 1000 RR with ShiftCam technology and 152kW, plus the 2019 Suzuki GSX-R1000 R1 in 10th place with 150kW.
2019 BMW S 1000 RR
Anyone who says power isn’t everything hasn’t twisted the throttle on a powerful sports bike.
Unfortunately, the only places left to experience these bikes is on unlimited-speed roads, at track days and in that all-important 100m traffic light drag.
There may not be many places left to experience the full power of some of the world’s most powerful bikes, but it’s always good to know the power is there.
So we’ve complied three lists of currently available new sports bikes with the most power, the most torque and with the highest power-to-weight ratio.
We have used factory supplied power and wet weight figures for Australia. The figures may vary slightly for some other countries.
For interest’s sake, we have also included at what revs they achieve peak power and torque to give you an indication of where they get most of their thrust.
Talk the torque
Gruntmeister Yamaha V-Max
While the kings of power are important, torque is that thrust in the chest at the starting line that we all love.
The king of grunt is still the brawny Yamaha V-Max. Kawasaki isn’t far behind with its forced-induction models and the normally aspirated Kawasaki ZX-14R.
If you were to include cruisers, Triumph’s 2.3-litre triple would be the undisputed king with 203Nm of stump-pullling grunt and several other cruisers would also rate high, including Harley’s Milwaukee Eight 114-cube FXDR which makes 162Nm.
Power and torque are meaningless if your bike is a porker like the 310kg V-Max. So we’ve also compiled a list of the best power-to-weight ratio sports bikes.
Again the winner is the Kawasaki H2R track-only weapon which has more kilowatts than kilograms for a power-to-weight ratio of 1.11. That compares with the V-Max at 47ptw.
So if you want a lithe sports bike with a good mix of heady power and gut-crunching grunt, Kawasaki should be your first port of call, or go to your local performance shop for a supercharger or turbocharger.
Australian challenger to be joined by De Angelis in 2019.
Source: Supplied.
Reigning FIM Endurance World Championship (EWC) title holder Josh Hook will take part in the inaugural season of the FIM Enel MotoE World Cup in 2019 with Pramac Racing.
Hook, who’ll be joined by Alex De Angelis, will pilot the Energica Ego Corsa in a strong 18-rider field that’s completed with a host of talented athletes from different championships around the world.
The MotoE World Cup will span over five European grand prix in 2019, while the first taste for Hook will come next week on 23-25 November in Jerez for the first official test.
“I’m thrilled to be with Alma Pramac Racing on this new MotoE adventure,” said Hook. “The 2019 season will be the first of many years for this new category and represents a great opportunity for me. I am very grateful to the team for believing in my ability and I am sure that we can get great satisfaction.
“MotoE is something new for everyone, so it will be great to work on the development of the bike and I’m sure we can have some great races. We have a few days of testing next week in Jerez and I am looking forward to working with the team on this new project so that we can have a real understanding of the bike. I would like to thank the Alma Pramac Racing team once again for making this possible.”
The New South Welshman still remains part of F.C.C. TSR Honda France’s EWC title defence, with round two of the 2018/2019 series scheduled for 20-21 April 2019 at Le Mans on France.
We’re getting ready to go to the Long Beach International Motorcycle Show. Are YOU? Yamaha has some pretty cool new models for you to throw a leg over.
Begin Press Release:
Yamaha Previews 2018 Long Beach International Motorcycle Show
Cypress, CA – November 13, 2018 – Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A., will display several all-new and recently introduced 2019 motorsports models and offer demo rides at the Long Beach International Motorcycle Show this weekend. Located at the Long Beach Convention Center in Long Beach, California, the show provides motorsports enthusiasts with an opportunity to explore Yamaha’s many products and interact with company representatives.
Yamaha’s display will be open to the public on Friday, November 16 from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday, November 17 from 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Sunday, November 18 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Several already-introduced, all-new 2019 motorsports models will be featured in the display.
NIKEN and NIKEN GT – Ride the Revolution
The NIKEN and NIKEN GT introduce a new motorcycle riding revolution that is born of pure innovation and performance. Featuring the unique leaning multi-wheel (LMW) system, the 2019 NIKEN and NIKEN GT have very sporty and confident handling characteristics. With an enhanced feeling of grip when cornering in a wide range of surface conditions, they offer riders the ability to carve through winding roads with unmatched confidence for more fun with less stress.
For comfort and convenience on longer rides, the NIKEN GT features a pair of locking quick-release 25-liter ABS side cases, a wider and taller touring windscreen, comfort seat, heated grips and more.
Tracer 900GT – Experience the Roads of Life
As part of Yamaha’s Sport Touring motorcycle lineup, the Tracer 900GT is designed to appeal to a wide range of riders who want to enjoy the many new experiences, places, and people that they will discover when traveling the Roads of Life. A premium-packaged model, the 2019 Tracer 900GT offers performance, versatility, and value. Features include color-matched hard side cases, a quick shift system (QSS), cruise control, suspension upgrades, a Thin Film Transistor (TFT) instrument panel, heated grips and more.
YZ250F – Race to the victorYZone
The 2019 YZ250F features an all-new engine design with electric start and two-mode adjustable mapping, a new frame, lighter wheels, new slim body styling, and next-generation KYB suspension components.As the world’s first production 250cc motocross bike with a wireless smartphone based engine tuner, the YZ250F allows for power delivery adjustments through anexclusive power tuner that operates via a smartphone application. Already proven to be a champion, the all-new 2019 YZ250F is ready to take riders to the victorYZone.
YZ450FX and WR450F – Off-Road Superiority for Yamaha bLU cRU Riders
The all-new YZ450FX and WR450F Cross Country motorcycles feature an all-new engine design, updated mass-centralized engine start system, wide-ratio transmission, all-new bilateral beam frame, optimized ergonomics, and much more. Known for their reliability in grueling off-road riding conditions, the 2019 YZ450FX and WR450F give Yamaha bLU cRU riders increased confidence on the trail.
Wolverine X2 – The Ultimate Trail-Exploring Side-by-Side
The all-new 2019 Yamaha Wolverine X2 Side-by-Side combines Proven Off-Road capability and confidence-inspiring performance with Real World comfort in a compact, nimble chassis making it the ultimate trail-exploring vehicle in tight, technical terrain. Its versatile and work-ready Real World Tough design features a comfortable two-person cab configuration, a newly designed 600-pound-rated dump bed, and impressive 2,000-pound towing capacity thanks to the ultra-quiet, smooth, vibration-free power of the vehicle’s new 847-cc twin cylinder engine.
YXZ1000R – Coast-to-Coast Pure-Sport Domination
Designed for ultimate high-performance Side-by-Side off-road adventures on a wide variety of terrain – from open deserts and dunes to muddy trails and rough, rocky terrain – the new 2019 YXZ1000R’s aggressive, race-ready chassis delivers coast-to-coast capability, comfort, and confidence. Powered by Yamaha’s industry-first 998cc triple cylinder engine and Yamaha’s industry-exclusive five-speed manual transmission, the new YXZ1000R boasts several enhancements including new styling, a new oversized relocated radiator, updated suspension, and increased accessory integration.
All Yamaha Side-by-Side and full-size ATVs are proudly built in the USA at Yamaha’s state-of-the-art factory in Newnan, Georgia, for worldwide distribution.
Special Features of the Display
In addition to the new motorcycle and Side-by-Side models, the 2018 MotoAmerica championship-winning YZF-R6 Supersport motorcycle ridden by Yamaha bLU cRU road racer JD Beach, and a Star Eluder custom-built by Cory Ness, will be on display. Show attendees will also have an opportunity to enter a Star Eluder sweepstakes when visiting the display.
Take a Ride on a New Yamaha Motorcycle
Long Beach International Motorcycle Show attendees will be able to take a demo ride aboard several 2019 models, including the all-new NIKEN LMW motorcycle, the new Tracer 900GT, the MT-10, and the YZF-R6. 2018 models will also be available, including the Star Venture, Star Eluder, FJR1300, Super Ténéré, MT-09, MT-07, XSR900, XSR700, and Bolt. Registration for demo rides will take place beginning at 8 a.m. in the parking lot located next to the Long Beach Convention Center on Saturday and Sunday, November 17 and 18, with rides conducted from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day.
To take a ride on the YZF-R3, MT-07 or XSR700, you must be at least 18 years old, and 21 years old to ride all other models offered. All riders are required to have a valid motorcycle license (permits are not allowed), a DOT-approved helmet, long pants, enclosed shoes, a shirt, and eye protection.
Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. (YMUS), is a recognized leader in the powersports industry. The company’s ever-expanding product offerings include Motorcycles and Scooters, ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles, Snowmobiles, WaveRunner Personal Watercraft, Boats, Outboard Motors, Outdoor Power Equipment, Power Assist Bicycles, Golf Cars, Power Assist Wheelchair Systems, Surface Mount Technology (SMT) Machines, Unmanned Helicopters, Accessories, Apparel, and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of distributors and dealers in the United States.
YMUS has a corporate office in California, two corporate offices in Georgia, facilities in Wisconsin and Alabama, and factory operations in Tennessee and Georgia. Additional U.S.-based Yamaha companies include Skeeter Boats (Texas), G3 Boats (Missouri), Bennet Marine (Florida), Yamaha Precision Propeller (Indiana), and Kracor, Inc. (Wisconsin).
Getting more kids on two wheels via Strider Bikes sounds good to us. Black Hills Harley-Davidson is doing its part to usher in a new generation of enthusiasts.
Begin Press Release:
Black Hills Harley-Davidson Donates 375 Strider Bikes to Rapid City Area Schools
Every kindergartener will have the opportunity to learn to ride a bike
Rapid City, S.D. (Nov. 12, 2018) – Black Hills Harley-Davidson (BHHD) donated 375 Strider Bikes to Rapid City Area Schools (RCAS). The bikes were assembled Nov. 12 in the service department of Black Hills Harley-Davidson in a collaborative effort by various BHHD staff, who volunteered their time, along with RCAS employees.
This generous donation will help approximately 6,000 kindergarten students learn to ride over the next five years.
The Strider Bikes will be delivered to every kindergarten physical education class in the district and will be incorporated into their curriculum between December 2018 and spring 2019.
Rapid City elementary schools will receive everything they need to get their students pedaling (through the Kindergarten P.E. program). The program includes a proven, integrative curriculum, staff training and certification, and the revolutionary, child-friendly Strider 14x Sport bikes.
“This is an exciting new venture for our staff and students and we are grateful and proud that Rapid City Area Schools is the first district to launch the initiative,” said RCAS Superintendent Dr. Lori Simon. “Numerous studies show that riding a bike not only improves physical fitness, it also benefits student learning, development and mental health. Black Hills Harley-Davidson’s generous donation of 375 Strider Bikes will give every kindergartner in our district an opportunity to experience the lifelong benefits of knowing how to ride a bike.”
The fleet of dual-propulsion 14x Striders start as balance bikes and convert to pedal bikes. This conversion makes learning to ride easier than ever before and makes training wheels obsolete.
“The surest path to securing our future is to focus our collective energy on our goal to build the next generation of Harley-Davidson riders,” said Al Rieman, co-owner of BHHD. “We must become as good at building new riders as we are at building great motorcycles and creating unmistakable Harley-Davidson experiences.”
The iconic dealership is donating the bikes through the Adopt-A-School Program, part of the nonprofit Strider Education Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization. Rieman emphasized, “For us to all become great at building new riders, and to work collectively, we must realize that the love of riding has to start at an early age. That’s why we’re proud to support the Strider Education Foundation and create the next generation of riders in Rapid City.”
“We are super excited about this district-wide rollout,” said Ryan McFarland, Founder, President and CEO of Strider Sports Int’l. “Our vision is for every kid in America to learn to ride before first grade. Having Black Hills Harley Davidson step up in such a big way to support Rapid City Area Schools is a huge first step toward seeing our vision become reality. And it’s a great way to kick off our ‘All Kids Bike’ national campaign.”
The Strider Education Foundation staff also offers continued support for each school to ensure everyone involved is successful.
About Black Hills Harley-Davidson
Harley-Davidson has a long and storied history here in the Black Hills. After being represented by several different dealers over the early years it was re-established as Black Hills Harley-Davidson® in 1978 located in Rapid City, SD. Over the years we have grown with western SD to become one of the nation’s largest H-D dealers. BHHD is known nationwide for being a premier dealership with Certified Harley-Davidson® Technicians, friendly parts staff, helpful Motorclothes associates and a knowledgeable Motorcycle Sales Team. Each year in August, BHHD plays host to hundreds of thousands of guests as well as the motorcycle industry’s best brands and companies who showcase their products on our 40-acre layout during the world-famous Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Learn more at Blackhillshd.com.
About Rapid City Area Schools
The Rapid City Area Schools (RCAS) serves nearly 14,000 students and employs approximately 1,800 people. Nearly half of our RCAS teachers have advanced degrees and the average teacher in the RCAS has 14.2 years of experience. Our District is rich in diversity. Twenty-one percent of RCAS students are Native American.
The RCAS is the state’s second largest district and is home to 15 elementary schools, 5 middle schools, two comprehensive high schools and one alternative high school. The District owns nearly 700 acres of land in and around Rapid City and maintains 30 buildings with a collective two million square feet.
RCAS is committed to building tomorrow’s community through inspiration, innovation, and excellence! The District recently launched Strategic Plan 2022. The aggressive five-year plan focuses on five key areas: Reading proficiently by 3rd grade; 21st Century Learning; College, Career & Life Readiness; Teaching & Leading; and School & Community Partnerships.
About Strider Education Foundation
The Strider Education Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, was formed in 2017. The Strider Education Foundation believes that learning to ride can help everyone lead a happier and healthier life. Through the development of a proven Learn-To-Ride curriculum and donations of the world’s most advanced training bikes, the nonprofit organization makes riding available, safe, easy, and fun for everyone.
The Adventurists must be the first motorcycle touring company to offer tours on monkey bikes and now add tours of Romania riding one of the most famous roads in the world.
Two years ago they launched the Monkey Run in the Sahara, crossing the Atlas Mountains to the Moroccan coast on 50cc Monkey Bikes and followed up with the Monkey Run Peru.
Now they will tackle Romania’s famous Transfăgărășan Highway.
Top Gear host Jeremy Clarkson called it “the best road in the world”.
We don’t often agree with the bike-hating TV presenter, but we have to agree on his verdict of this challenging piece of heaven.
Cost and charity
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The Adventurists will operate two Romanian Monkey Runs in 2019 at the end of June and in mid-September, costing £1295 (about $A2320, $US1665).
As per all their adventures, The Adventurists ask participants to all raise £1000 in charity donations.
Half goes to their charity partner Cool Earth and the other half goes to which ever charity is chosen by the participant. Since they started, they have raised £7.5million for charity.
Secret location
Apart from riding monkey bikes, the tour will be unique because there is no defined route, says MD Daniel Reeds.
It starts in Sighetu Marmatiei, close to the border with Ukraine, before travelling a few hundred kilometres to a secret location.
The route in between is not set, but Daniel urges riders to include the paved Transfăgărășan Highway across the Carpathian Mountains. The road was built in the early 1970s as a strategic military route and goes into Transylvania were riders can visit Dracula’s Castle.
Transfăgărășan Highway
“Beyond that we encourage riders to look at their maps as little as possible,” Daniel says.
“The idea of the Monkey Runs is to give people a true adventure that allows them to get under the skin of the country they’re in in a way that a normal holiday wouldn’t.
“There’s no set route, no backup and no support. That’s the whole point. You could just rock up, enjoy the launch party, team up with another rider and ride in tandem the length of the country to the finish line and you’d have an amazing time.”
Monkey Bikes
This aim for adventure is why The Adventurists chose Honda Monkey Bikes, rather than more comfortable or powerful rides.
“Monkey Bikes are a whole lot of fun and it’s hard to take a serious fall,” Daniel says.
“Because they’re low to the ground they also feel much faster than they are, but in reality they’re slow enough for you to truly appreciate the landscape you’re travelling through.
“They’re perfect for this trip and they’re bound to break down at some point, which means you’ll be forced to engage with the locals and find out what the country and culture are all about.”
Following the unveiling of the recent BMW F 750 GS and F 850 GS, the new F 850 GS Adventure now expands the BMW Motorrad range in the adventure-touring segment.
Like the renowned boxer-engined BMW GS Adventure models, the new F 850 GS Adventures offers a dedicated travel enduro, for offroad oriented touring riders and globetrotters.
2019 BMW F 850 GS Adventure
A new refined two-cylinder in-line engine with 90-degree crankpin offset and 270/450 degree ignition spacing incudes counterbalance shafts to reduce vibration. A slip-assist clutch provides a discernible reduction in lever effort.
The power transmission to the rear wheel comes from the six-speed gearbox with secondary drive that is now positioned on the left-hand side.
The new F 850 GS Adventure offers “Rain” and “Road” riding modes as standard, while the combination of BMW Motorrad ABS and the ASC automatic stability control ensure a high level of safety.
2019 BMW F 850 GS Adventure
The F 850 GS Adventure can be fitted ex works with optional equipment, such as Pro Riding Modes and in turn the additional Dynamic, Enduro and Enduro Pro riding modes as well as the DTC dynamic traction control and lean-angle responsive ABS Pro.
The bridge frame of the new F 850 GS Adventure integrates the two-cylinder in-line engine as a supporting element of the backbone while the 23-litre fuel tank has been placed in the classic position between the seat and the steering head for an improved centre of gravity. BMW claim a touring range of 550 kilometres.
New, bodywork emphasises the F 850 GS Adventure’s more modern looks, with a larger adjustable windshield and hand-guards.
Wide enduro footrests, adjustable shift and foot brake levers as well as engine protection bars and a stainless steel luggage rack round off the F 850 GS Adventure’s standard equipment.
2019 BMW F 850 GS Adventure
In addition to the basic version, the new F 850 GS Adventure is available in Exclusive and Rallye style variations.
2019 BMW F 850 GS Adventure highlights
Powerful 2-cylinder in-line engine with a displacement of 853cc
70kW(95hp) at 8250rpm and 92Nm at 6250rpm
Crankshaft with 90-degree crankpin offset and 270/450-degree ignition spacing
New steel bridge frame
New upside-down telescopic fork
Aluminium two-sided swinging arm with central spring strut
ABS, ASC and the riding modes “Rain” and “Road” as standard
New onboard electrical system with more powerful alternator and starter
Improved wind and weather protection – Adjustable screen
23 litre fuel tank for ranges up to 550 kilometres
Enhanced GS Adventure profile
New colour along with the two style variants Rallye and Exclusive
Wide range of optional equipment and accessories
In-line, two-cylinder engine
The F 850 GS Adventure’s two-cylinder in-line engine has been completely re-engineered, with an aim to increase in power and torque compared to the previous models, as well as optimising combustion so as to reduce fuel consumption.
2019 BMW F 850 GS Adventure
The engine displacement is now 853 cc (compared with 798 cc), resulting from a bore of 84 mm and stroke of 77 mm. The new F 850 GS Adventure generates 70 kW (95 hp) at 8250 rpm and develops a maximum torque of 92 Nm at 6250rpm. In particular, the increased torque results in improved pulling power, with a claimed top speed of 197 km/h.
The two-cylinder in-line engine is installed transverse to the direction of travel and liquid-cooled. In contrast to the engines of the previous model, however, its crankshaft has a 90-degree journal offset and a 270/450 degree ignition spacing (previous model had a 0 degree crankshaft journal offset and a 360 degree ignition spacing).
2019 BMW F 850 GS Adventure
Two opposed counterbalance shafts help keep things smooth. These two opposed counterbalance shafts are arranged in front of or behind the crankshaft, a little below its axis, and are driven from the left of the crankshaft by the spur gears.
The engine of the new F 850 GS Adventure has dry-sump lubrication, which does not require a separate tank for engine oil. Any oil escaping from the main bearings is collected in a drain that is sealed off from the oil sump.
The bike’s off-road character is further reflected in the F 850 GS Adventure’s underside protection, which protects the oil sump from any damage.
The cylinder head of the new F 850 GS Adventure contains two rotating overhead camshafts driven by a toothed belt, which operates four valves per cylinder by means of light fixed-speed rocker arms. The timing chain drive is on the right-hand side of the engine.
2019 BMW F 850 GS Adventure – Luggaged up
The valve angles are 11.2 degrees on the intake side and 13.3 degrees on the exhaust. The valves have a plate diameter of 33.5 mm (intake) and 27.2 mm (outlet). The compression ratio is 12.7:1.
Carburation is by means of intake pipe injection with next-generation BMS engine control. The rider’s control signals passed directly by a sensor on the throttle grip via an e-gas system to the motor controller, which regulates the angle of opening of the throttle valves.
The power transmission of the new F 850 GS Adventure has also been subjected to complete re-engineering. The primary drive arrangement on the right-hand side of the engine is responsible for transmitting the torque from the crankshaft to the clutch by means of spur gears. This is now designed as a slip-assist wet clutch.
2019 BMW F 850 GS Adventure
The newly engineered six-speed gearbox now transfers the torque with an optimised transmission ratio spread to the secondary drive on the left (formerly right), in the form of an X-ring chain. For fast up and down gear shifting without using the clutch, BMW Motorrad now offers the Shift Assistant Pro, available as optional equipment ex works.
Positioning the secondary drive on the left-hand side of the motorcycle, has made it possible to move the stainless steel exhaust system of the new F 850 GS Adventure to the right. This has advantages when the rider manoeuvres the motorcycle by hand, which is usually done from the left-hand side. The F 850 GS Adventure can also be fitted with an HP muffler with a sporty design, as optional equipment ex works.
The F 850 GS Adventure comes with the two riding modes “Rain” and Road” and ASC automatic stability control, to ensure a high degree of rider safety.
2019 BMW F 850 GS Adventure – Standard dash
In “Rain” mode, the throttle response is configured to be soft, while the control characteristics of the ASC or DTC and ABS or ABS Pro are based on wet and slippery road surfaces. In “Road” mode, the engine permits optimum throttle response, while the ABS and ASC control systems are configured for ideal performance on all roads.
The F 850 GS Adventure can also be equipped with the “Pro riding modes” option as optional equipment ex works. It features the riding modes “Dynamic” and “Enduro” as well as the DTC dynamic traction control and the curve-optimised ABS Pro with dynamic brake light.
Ambitious enduro riders can tap into the full off-road performance in “Enduro Pro” mode. This riding mode is configured for the use of lugged tyres and is activated by a specially coded plug. With “Enduro Pro” the rider can individually configure and combine characteristics such as throttle response, DTC and ABS Pro. Here too Dynamic ESA is modified for offroad use and is set to the Enduro value.
2019 BMW F 850 GS Adventure
Updated chassis for road and dirt
The bridge frame developed for the new F 850 GS Adventure integrates the two-cylinder in-line engine as a self-supporting element and is made of deep-drawn sheet metal parts that are welded together. The new frame in monocoque design has greater torsional stiffness than the predecessor model with tubular steel space frame.
The new frame concept also involved a repositioning of the fuel tank and the 23-litre tank in the new F 850 GS Adventure is now located in the classic position between the seat and steering head, for optimising wheel load fluctuations and overall centre of gravity.
2019 BMW F 850 GS Adventure – 23L tank
The avoidance of aluminium as a material was due to the tough conditions in which an enduro vehicle often finds itself. Significant benefits are offered by steel and the design of the new main frame.
The new F 850 GS Adventure has also undergone optimisation in terms of suspension geometry, with a flatter steering head in comparison to the previous model, as well as greater castor at the wheels.
2019 BMW F 850 GS Adventure
F 850 GS riders will also benefit from new wheel guides and spring shock absorber elements. Front wheel guidance is in the form of a new upside-down fork with 43mm slide tube diameter and 230 mm of spring travel (210 mm when lowered). The slider tubes are protected from stone impacts by plastic guards that are integrated in the front wheel cover.
Rear wheel control takes the form of a double-sided aluminium swinging arm and directly linked central spring strut with travel-dependent damping, which also has an adjustable spring base and rebound stage damping that can be adjusted to suit personal requirements. Spring travel distance is 215 mm (195 mm when lowered).
The BMW Motorrad dynamic ESA electronic suspension is available as optional equipment, offering a dynamic riding experience, where rider comfort and touring suitability of the new F 850 GS Adventure can be increased even further.
Dynamic ESA does not function as a standalone system but communicates with the other control systems, such as ABS / ABS Pro and ASC or DTC. The Dynamic ESA is also linked with the riding modes “Rain”, “Road”, “Dynamic”, “Enduro”, and “Enduro Pro”.
2019 BMW F 850 GS Adventure – Optional Connectivity accessory with 6.5in TFT
The F 850 GS Adventure is fitted with cross-spoke wheels with aluminium rims sized 2.15 x 21 at the front and 4.25 x 17 at the rear. The 21-inch front wheel favoured for sports-oriented offroad use as this grants high riding stability thanks to the larger gyroscopic forces, offering distinct advantages on loose ground.
The F 850 GS Adventure is also equipped with enduro street tyres as standard. It has tubeless tyres sized 90/90-21 at the front and 150/70-17 at the rear. More aggressive off-road specific tyres can be ordered as free optional equipment ex works.
Dual 305 mm discs are clamped by two-piston floating calipers. A single disc brake with a diameter of 265mm is fitted to the rear wheel with a single-piston floating caliper. The bike is fitted as standard with BMW Motorrad ABS, which the rider can also deactivate.
Further safety enhancing features for motorcycles are available in the form of the Pro riding modes optional equipment, ABS Pro functions, and a dynamic brake light – currently still limited to the EU and ECE region.
ABS Pro goes one step further than the BMW Motorrad ABS by offering increased safety when braking on bends in that ABS-supported braking is permitted in banking position. In the riding modes “Rain” and “Road”, ABS Pro is dimensioned for road use and moderate to low frictional values, plus optimum braking stability.
2019 BMW F 850 GS Adventure
BMW Motorrad electronics
An LED headlamp is now offered as a standard feature on the new F 850 GS Adventure, and in addition to this, aLED daytime riding light is available as an optional equipment item.
The new LED headlamp lights up the road with a beam that is bright and offers strong clarity, also ensuring better visibility in traffic. The F 850 GS Adventure is also equipped with a completely new instrument cluster design, consisting of an analogue tachometer and a multifunctional display, alongside a number of control lamps.
New optional equipment known as Connectivity, includes a 6.5 inch full-colour TFT display. In conjunction with integrated operation via the BMW Motorrad multi-controller, it gives the rider quick access to vehicle and connectivity functions.
As is already the case with other BMW Motorrad models, the Keyless Ride system is available as optional equipment ex works and replaces the conventional ignition/steering lock in the new F 850 GS Adventure. The steering lock, ignition, fuel filler flap and anti-theft device are all activated by the transponder integrated in the vehicle key, which transmits a wireless signal with a frequency specific to the vehicle.
Design and Ergos
A high-positioned air intake, ample spring travel and ground clearance, functionally designed surfaces and a precise panel alignment underline the robust offroad attributes of the new middle class GS Adventure.
Like the big GS boxer Adventure it’s appearance is authentic, with iconic design features such as the asymmetric headlamp and the GS typical flyline clearly identify it as a member of the BMW Motorrad GS family. Starting from the front “beak” of the GS, the flyline extends over the fuel tank and seat to the rear, which is considerably more narrow in design that the predecessor model.
2019 BMW F 850 GS Adventure
The new F 850 GS Adventure’s offroad suitability is also increased thanks to the new design of the fuel tank/seat area without any edges or corners. This is advantageous above all when riding offroad in a standing position. Conified 15mm higher handlebars, also ensure an even more comfortable seated position, while adjustable hand levers for the clutch and front brake enable the rider to choose his own setup.
Wider off road-optimised enduro footrests improve the bike’s off-road riding capabilities, with an adjustable foot brake lever insert for riding offroad in a standing position. An adjustable shift lever rounds off the ergonomic adjustment package.
An optimised inner leg curve length, numerous available seat heights, and a refined ergonomic triangle around the handlebars, seat bench and footrests also ensure a ride suitable for a broad range of riders. Compared to the predecessor model the standard seat height has been reduced by 15mm to 875mm. The minimum seat height of 815mm can be reached by lowering the suspension and installing a lower seat bench (optional equipment ex works).
2019 BMW F 850 GS Adventure
In addition wind and weather protection was optimised to make long-distance riding even more comfortable, with a height-adjustable touring windshield as well as two side wind deflectors as standard. The touring windshield of the F 850 GS Adventure can be adjusted in two positions improving wind and weather protection significantly. This is also optionally available for the F 850 GS.
Three dynamic colour and three style variations give the new F 850 GS Adventure its individual and characteristic features. The painted parts of both models have been deliberately kept to a minimum. They are located in the upper area of the motorcycle, where they form the interface between the rider and the motorcycle. The lower area of the motorcycle and the GS “beak’, on the other hand, are in black, to underline its offroad character.
2019 BMW F 850 GS Adventure variants & colours
BMW F 850 GS Adventure Rallye – Lupinblau metallic
BMW F 850 GS Adventure Exclusive – Granitgrau metallic
BMW F 850 GS Adventure – Icegrey uni
2019 BMW F 850 GS Adventure
2019 BMW F 850 GS Adventure
Engine
Capacity cc
853
Bore/stroke mm
84 x 77
Output kW/hp
70/95
At engine speed rpm
8,250
Torque Nm
92
At engine speed rpm
6,250
Type
Water-cooled 2-cylinder 4-stroke engine with four rocker arm operated valves per cylinder, two overhead camshafts and dry sump lubrication
Compression
12.7/1
Fuel
Premium unleaded 95 RON (option: 91 (RON)
Valve Control
DOHC (double overhead camshaft), rocker arms
Valves per cylinder
4
Throttle valves mm Ø
48
intake/outlet mm Ø
33.5/27.2
Engine control
BMS-O
Emission control
Closed-loop three-way catalytic converter, exhaust standard EU-4
Electrical system
Altinator W
416
Battery V/Ah
12/10
Headlamp
HalogenHigh beam/low beam: 12 V/55 W Halogen
Rear light
LED brake light/rear light
Starter K/W
0.9
Power transmission
Clutch
Wet clutch with anti-hopping function, hydraulically activated
Transmission
Constant mesh 6-speed gearbox
Primary ratio
1.821
I
2.833
II
2.067
III.
1.600
IV.
1.308
V
1.103
VI
0.968
Secondary drive
Chain
Secondary ratio
2.588
Suspension
Frame construction type
Steel bridge frame in monocoque design, load-bearing engine
Josh Hook to ride MotoE with Pramac and defend World Endurance Title with F.C.C. TSR Honda
Josh Hook
“I’m thrilled to be with Alma Pramac Racing on this new MotoE adventure. The 2019 season will be the first of many years for this new category and represents a great opportunity for me. I am very grateful to the team for believing in my ability and I am sure that we can get great satisfaction. MotoE is something new for everyone, so it will be great to work on the development of the bike and I’m sure we can have some great races. We have a few days of testing next week in Jerez and I am looking forward to working with the team on this new project so that we can have a real understanding of the bike. I would like to thank the Alma Pramac Racing team once again for making this possible”.
Josh Hook (centre) and F.C.C. TSR Honda after winning the 2018 8H of Oschersleben
After the MotoGP official test in Valencia next week, the team will fly to Jerez de la Frontera where the MotoE test will take place on the weekend of 23-25 November.
There is great expectation in seeing on track the 18 prototypes of Energica that will give life to the 2019 FIM Enel MotoE World Cup, with five European Grand Prix (Jerez, Le Mans, Sachsenring, Spielberg and Misano).
Alma Pramac Racing will be on the starting grids of this fascinating adventure with former MotoGP rider Alex De Angelis, and 25-year-old 2018 FIM Endurance World Champion Josh Hook.
Alex De Angelis
“It’s going to be “electrifying”. It may sound like a pun, but it’s not. I’m excited to be part of this project and I’m very pleased to be back on this team with which I’ve already had a very happy experience in Laguna Seca in 2013. It’s a very professional team and I’m sure they can give me that extra help to do well. I’ve been off the track for a year now and that’s why I’m so keen to get back on track at Jerez: it’s going to be a good break-in for me and for the new bike. I would like to thank Paolo Campinoti and Francesco Guidotti for giving me this opportunity. I know the team’s deep competition spirit and I will do my best to achieve great results”.
Alex De Angelis seen here after winning the Moto2 race at Phillilp Island in 2011
With the defection of MotoAmerica 600 Supersport Champion JD Beach to AFT for 2019, has flat track racing become America’s premier two-wheeled racing series? Actually Beach isn’t defecting at all, but he’s planning to race the AFT series full-time in addition to road racing with MotoAmerica. On the three weekends when those two series overlap in 2019, JD says he’ll cross that bridge when he comes to it. MotoAmerica’s got Yamaha and Yoshimura Suzuki fielding factory teams. AFT’s got Indian, Harley-Davidson, and now a three-man Yamaha MT-07-based team that could make things even more interesting for flat track’s growing fan base.
AFT Press Release:
Sent on behalf of Estenson Racing
PHOENIX (November 12, 2018) – Estenson Racing is happy to announce that multi-time road race champion JD Beach will be joining the team’s core members – two-time Grand National Champion Jake Johnson and 2017 AFT Singles Champion Kolby Carlile – to provide a three-pronged threat in the AFT Twins class in 2019. This expansion will see Estenson Racing more than doubling its race effort in American Flat Track in just its third full season in the series.
Beach: The Experienced New Teammate
In addition to his two MotoAmerica Supersport titles, JD Beach has banked more wins in the series’ class than any other rider. Beach has additional road race accolades on his resume, both in the U.S. and internationally. In 2008, Beach was the first American to win the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup and in 2010, he won an AMA Pro Supersport title, which was considered the premier U.S. championship for up-and-coming road racers.
Although 2019 marks the first time Beach will be racing full-time for American Flat Track, he has strong dirt track roots and has shown that even though his focus has been on road racing in his professional career, it has not dulled his flat track skills. In his first AFT Twins race since 2013, he scored a podium finish at the 2017 season finale at the Perris Half-Mile and then he backed it up with a second-place finish at the 2018 season opener DAYTONA TT.
Beach looks forward to joining the team in 2019 and riding the Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 for an entire season.
“I’m really excited,” Beach said. “This is going to be the first time that I’ve ever done a full season in dirt track, so to compete at every AFT round will be great, and to have a chance to ride for a team like Estenson Racing is great. It’s been a team that has grown a lot, and they have won races and a championship already, so it’s awesome to be a part of it.
“Racing the new Yamaha Twin in dirt track is going to be fun, but it’ll be a challenge, too. There are a lot of Indians out there now, and with (Bryan) Smith going back to Kawasaki for next year is going to make it interesting but fun, too. I think we’re going to have a really good bike. This will the first time that I’ll actually get to test the bike and stuff and get some time on it before I go racing, which will be nice. I think we’re going to be ready when the season starts, and it will be fun to see how I do when I can stay on the same bike throughout the year.”
In addition to a full season of flat track, Beach will still continue road racing, an announcement to come out at a later date.
Johnson: The Seasoned Veteran
Returning for his second season with the team, Jake Johnson brings a wealth of experience to the table. In addition to his two Grand National Championships, Johnson is part of the sport’s elite group to complete a dirt track Grand Slam, and he sits 16th on the all-time win list with 21 wins. Last season, the veteran scored win number 21 at the Buffalo Chip TT, not only marking his first win since 2016, but also the team’s first AFT Twins win. Johnson hopes to build on the late-season momentum he had this year and looks forward to another year with the team in 2019, as well as campaigning an Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 for the entire season.
“I’m excited to be back with Estenson Racing for 2019!” Johnson said. “We had our ups and downs last season, but we gained a lot of valuable information and started to build some momentum in the second half of the season. I’m grateful to be able to stay with Estenson Racing for another year and continue to progress. I’m also excited to be competing on Yamahas for the entire season. I jumped around between three brands of motorcycles last season, and I look forward to having 100% focus on the MT-07. It’s going to be a challenge, but I believe the bikes have great potential. I really look forward to off-season testing and heading into next season ready to fight.”
Carlile: The Talented Rookie
Joining the two veterans on the AFT Twins team is Estenson Racing’s youngest rider and its longest standing member Kolby Carlile. The “Flying Tomato” joined the team mid-season in 2017 and brought home the AFT Singles title in the team’s first season. In addition to his title, Carlile scored three wins on the Miles. Now, the former champ looks ahead to the next step in his career – campaigning a Twin in American Flat Track for a full season. The rookie is eager to make that next step with a team who’s support has already brought him a lot of success early on and get acquainted with the MT-07
“I’m beyond excited to step up to the (AFT) Twins class in 2019,” Carlile said. “There is no higher step you can take as far as a career in dirt track goes, so it will be good to see the top of the mountain and watch my progress over the next few years.
“I will be racing the Yamaha MT-07 full time starting now so I can feel at one with it when Daytona comes around. It will be great for me to be able to be on the same bike day in, and day out so that Brandan Bergen (his mechanic) and I can get it built exactly how I want it.
“I wanted to wait until I felt I was ready for this jump. Estenson Racing believes in my ability and is helping me to do what I need to be a competitive racer in the AFT Twins class. I have been able to accomplish more goals in racing than I would have ever imagined when I started racing 10 years ago. I have quite a few goals left, and they are on a Twin.”
Team Owner Tim Estenson couldn’t be happier with his 2019 AFT Twins lineup. The long-time flat track racing/motorcycle enthusiast feels he has the perfect mix between youth and experience, as well as a team with the cohesive, family environment he was looking for.
“I’m really happy to have what I see as an all-star lineup in the AFT Twins class, with a great blend of youth and experience,” Estenson said. “I’m also super-excited to have JD on board. Although flat track has been a part-time gig for his professional career, he’s shown that he is one of the top riders in the sport; and obviously, in road racing as well, as his many championships there have shown. I think his experience will also be a big help in the development of the Yamaha MT-07 and complement the other riders in our program that have been around longer.
“I’m also happy to welcome Jake back for another year. I felt that last season wasn’t the program I had hoped for him. He brings a lot of experience to the team and has had a lot of time on different machines, so I think a solid year on the Yamaha and more testing will pay dividends.
“I saw a lot of promise in Kolby straight away and was happy to commit to giving him the time and tools needed to advance to the premier class. He brought us home a championship in our first season, and I look forward to helping provide him with the right platform for more success in the future.”
NBCSN and FansChoice.tv are the official homes for coverage of American Flat Track. For the 2018 season, NBCSN’s coverage of AFT moves to highly-coveted, weekend afternoon programming slots within two weeks of each event. The complete schedule for AFT on NBCSN can be viewed at http://www.americanflattrack.com/events-nbcsn/. FansChoice.tv remains a cornerstone of AFT’s digital strategy, providing live streaming coverage of every event on AFT’s live page while previous events and exclusive features are available on AFT’s VOD page.
Casey Stoner and Ducati conclude their collaboration
Ducati and Casey Stoner will not continue the collaboration agreement that has seen them work together since 2016.
Casey Stoner
“I want to thank Ducati for the great memories and especially the support and enthusiasm of the Ducati fans for our shared passion for racing and motorcycling, I’ll always remember this. Over the past three years I have really enjoyed doing my job with the test team, the engineers and technicians, as we worked towards improving the Desmosedici GP package and I sincerely want to wish the team all the very best for their future endeavours.”
Casey Stoner – Sepang Test 2017 – Image: Andrew Northcott
The accord had been stipulated on a three-year basis (2016-2018) and in these three years, thanks also to Casey’s important contribution, Ducati has constantly improved the performance of the Desmosedici GP, which is now considered to be one of the most competitive bikes in the MotoGP World Championship.
Casey Stoner at Phillip Island 2007 – Image by AJRN
The collaboration between Ducati and Stoner also contributed to the final development of the Panigale V4, as well as offering important suggestions for the development of other bikes currently in the Ducati range. In his role as Ducati ‘brand ambassador’, Casey was one of the undisputed stars of the last two editions of WDW (World Ducati Week) in 2016 and 2018, in which the Australian champion actively took part, and where he was greeted with incredible signs of affection by Ducatisti from all over the world.
Casey Stoner – Phillip Island 2010 – Image by AJRN
Claudio Domenicali, CEO of Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A.
“Casey is and will always remain in the hearts of Ducatisti and it is also on their behalf that we wish to thank him for the important collaboration he has offered us over the last three years. His technical indications and suggestions, together with the work and the feedback of the factory riders and Michele Pirro, have helped to make the Desmosedici GP one of the most competitive bikes on the grid, and his advice for the development of our production bikes has been just as precious and useful. Ducati and its many fans wish to offer their sincere thanks and their best wishes to Casey and his family for a serene and happy future.”
Bangkok Harley-Davidson claims 2018 Battle of the Kings title
Thailand dealership Bangkok Harley-Davidson have become Grand Champions of the 2018 Battle of the Kings international custom bike build-off competition, with the title announce at this year’s EICMA, in Milan.
Bangkok Harley-Davidson’s ‘The Prince’ Custom Street Bob won BotK 2018
Bangkok Harley-Davidson’s ‘The Prince’ is a simple and contemporary interpretation of the classic chopper, based on a 2018 Harley-Davidson Street Bob. This was the first year that Thailand had been included in the competition which makes the Bangkok Harley-Davidson team’s achievement even more impressive.
Battle of the Kings is a custom build-off competition held throughout the Harley-Davidson dealership network. For the 2018 competition over 300 dealers from more than 30 countries entered, aiming to take out the grand title.
Adelaide Harley-Davidson’s Roadster-based “Back to the Track”
The three grand finalists selected to be displayed on the Harley-Davidson stand at EICMA included Adelaide Harley-Davidson, with their Roadster-based “Back to the Track”, Bologna Harley-Davidson’s “Farm Machine” and this year’s Thailand winner, Bangkok Harley-Davidson’s “The Prince”.
The task of selecting the winner fell to a seven-strong team from the Harley-Davidson Styling and Design division, led by Vice President of Styling and Design Brad Richards.
Brad Richards – HD Vice President of Styling and Design
“It was so close, deciding the winner. In the end the clean lines and beautiful engineering of ‘The Prince’ took it – but it was only by one single vote. This really demonstrates what is possible – and what are dealerships are capable of delivering. A huge congratulations to the team at Bangkok Harley-Davidson, particularly as this is their first time in the competition.”
Bologna Harley-Davidson’s “Farm Machine”
Announcing the winner at EICMA and presenting representatives from the winning dealership with the 2018 Battle of the Kings trophy was Director of International Marketing, Steve Lambert
Steve Lambert – HD Director of International Marketing
“Battle of the Kings is a phenomenal display of the custom expertise available in Harley-Davidson dealerships around the world, and with over 300 entries from 30 countries this year’s competition has been the most amazing yet. We had three fantastic finalists, each very different, all built to the same basic competition rules. When you look at the diversity of entries from around the world it’s an incredible modern-day example of our custom heritage. Huge congratulations to all of the finalists, and especially to the team at Bangkok Harley-Davidson. What a fantastic achievement!”
Bangkok Harley-Davidson’s ‘The Prince’ Custom Street Bob
The Prince – Custom Street Bob
The team at Bangkok Harley-Davidson chose the Street Bob to reflect a nostalgic image while benefiting from modern day technology. The back-to-the-70s Chopper look was achieved by chopping off the front and rear fenders and incorporating parts from other motorcycles within the Harley-Davidson range such as the fuel tank from the 48 and handlebar from the Roadster.
Bangkok Harley-Davidson’s ‘The Prince’ Custom Street Bob
The 21-inch front and 16-inch rear custom-made five-spoke wheels enhance the sloping profile of the bike while rerouting the brake line, fuel line and wiring loom tidied up the look. The Gold on Black theme was used to reflect a black leather jacket and chopper theme, with golden crown fuel cap and tyre valve caps playing to the nickname of the bike, “the Prince”.
Bangkok Harley-Davidson’s ‘The Prince’ Custom Street Bob
Up close, the engine is highlighted by gold powder coating the pushrod tubes, rocker box inserts and air cleaner mesh. These parts are chrome-plated prior to powder coating to achieve the shining effect. The seat is reshaped and re-skinned in natural hide with yellow-thread-stitching for that golden effect.
Bangkok Harley-Davidson’s ‘The Prince’ Custom Street Bob
Brass Collection derby cover and timing cover were used to de-chrome the bike, while floating-disc brakes and black levers, anodized foot pegs and handgrip create modern and powerful look. The end result? A stunning, one-off Street Bob fit for the crown.
Bangkok Harley-Davidson’s ‘The Prince’ Custom Street Bob
Battle of the Kings 2019 kicks off – USA included
As one Custom King is crowned it is time for next year’s competition to formally kick-off. For 2019 Battle of the Kings will be bigger than ever, as for the first time the USA enters the running to compete for the crown.
Bangkok Harley-Davidson’s ‘The Prince’ Custom Street Bob
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