Arc Electric Motorcycles has received an investment from InMotion Ventures, Jaguar Land Rover’s venture capital fund.
Begin Press Release:
INMOTION VENTURES INVESTS IN ARC VECTOR – THE WORLD’S MOST ADVANCED ELECTRIC MOTORCYCLE
● Arc has pioneered Vector, the most efficient, safest and most fulfilling electric motorcycle experience yet
● Vector will be revealed in Milan on 6 November
● Vector comes with groundbreaking haptic ride-wear and connected HUD helmet
06 November 2018, London – InMotion Ventures, Jaguar Land Rover’s venture capital fund, today announces its investment in Arc, which today unveils ‘Vector’ – the world’s first fully-electric motorcycle with Human Machine Interface (HMI). Arc Vector is the most advanced electric motorcycle ever brought to market, using exotic materials, thoroughbred componentry and cutting-edge architecture, wrapped in a futuristic body.
The investment from InMotion Ventures, along with Mercia Fund Managers, the Proof of Concept & Early Stage Fund which is part of the Midlands Engine Investment Fund, and a number of industry specialist angels, will support Arc with its global ambition for Vector to be the cleanest, safest, and most fulfilling motorcycle on the road.
The brand new bike, will be revealed at the Milan Motorcycle Show today. The Arc show stand will showcase the brand, along with the bike itself and its groundbreaking intelligent haptic ride-wear and connected Heads-Up Display helmet. A virtual reality ride experience will also be available for attendees.
The Arc team consists of industry-leading professionals, coming together to develop and build an all-new experience on two wheels.
Mark Truman, Founder & CEO, Arc, said: “Our aim has always been to bring technology, performance and safety together to create an entirely new two-wheeled experience. Vector
isn’t just a motorbike; it’s the world’s first fully-electric café racer, it’s an innovative heads-up display helmet and it’s a sensory riding suit – all working in unison to create an experience package like no other. We’re delighted to get the support of InMotion for this exciting launch phase. The team shares our vision and we’re looking forward to working together and creating more ground breaking products.”
Sebastian Peck, Managing Director, InMotion Ventures, said: “Electric vehicles are pivotal for the future of urban mobility, helping people travel through cities quickly and cleanly as possible. We want to make sure that we’re not only changing the way people move but delivering unparalleled outdoor experiences while doing so. With Arc’s technology and vision, the Vector is an incredible development in the next generation of motorcycle travel.”
For 2019 Honda’s highly successful CBR500R gets a make-over with a fresh set of sleeker clothes along with some meaningful mechanical updates for the new model year.
2019 Honda CBR500R
The eight-valve parallel twin has altered cam timing and more lift on the valves which Honda claims translates to a 4 per cent boost in mid-range power and torque from 3000-7000 rpm.
2019 Honda CBR500R
Also new for 2019 is a slip-assist clutch which comes with the dual benefits of a lighter clutch pull combined with a slipper function on decelearation.
2019 Honda CBR500R
A repositioned battery has allowed for a straight intake tract for the PGM-FI fuel-injection system.
2019 Honda CBR500R
At the other end the exhaust system now features dual exits in the single high-rise muffler.
2019 will be the seventh year in production for the CBR500R and Honda has given the model a more lithe but at the same time more muscular look to the comfortable learner legal machine.
2019 Honda CBR500R
The clip-on bars now sit lower and the riding position is canted a little more forward, while the seat itself is a little slimmer than before but retains the low 785 mm seat height.
2019 Honda CBR500R
New LCD instrumentation adds an upshift indicator light along with a gear position indicator. The shift-light is factory set at 8,750 rpm but can be adjusted in 250 rpm increments for the boy/girl racers.
2019 Honda CBR500R
Indicators are now LED to match the rest of the lighting package.
2019 Honda CBR500R
A new single-tube rear shock with larger diameter piston promises improved damping control and is nine-stage preload adjustable. Forks are as before, 41mm, and offer 120mm of travel.
2019 Honda CBR500R
Honda claim a range of up to 480 km from the 17.1-litre fuel cell.
As for when it arrives, it seems sometime early in 2019 is about as close a date as we can predict for now.
2019 Honda CBR500R
Image Gallery
Honda CBRR Studio
Honda CBRR Studio
Honda CBRR Studio
Honda CBRR Studio
Honda CBRR Action
Honda CBRR
Honda CBRR
Honda CBRR
Honda CBRR
Honda CBRR
Honda CBRR
Honda CBRR
Honda CBRR
ENGINE
Type
Liquid cooled, parallel twin
Displacement
471 cc
No of Valves per Cylinder
4
Bore & Stroke
67 mm x 66.8 mm
Compression Ratio
10.7:1
Max. Power Output
35kW (47 hp) @ 8600 rpm
Max. Torque
43Nm @ 6500 rpm
Oil Capacity
3.2 L
FUEL SYSTEM
Carburation
PGM FI
Fuel Tank Capacity
17.1 litres
Fuel Consumption (WMTC)
29.4 km/litre
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Battery Capacity
12V 7.4AH
ACG Output
25A/2000rpm
DRIVETRAIN
Clutch Type
Wet multi-plate
Transmission Type
6 speed
Final Drive
Chain
FRAME
Type
Steel diamond
CHASSIS
Dimensions (L ́W ́H)
2080 mm x 755 mm x 1145 mm
Wheelbase
1410 mm
Caster Angle
25.5 degrees
Trail
102 mm
Seat Height
785 mm
Ground Clearance
130 mm
Kerb Weight
192 kg
SUSPENSION
Type Front
Conventional telescopic front forks, 41mm, preload adjustable
Type Rear
Prolink mono with 5-stage preload adjuster, steel square pipe swingarm
WHEELS
Type Front
Multi-spoke cast aluminium
Type Rear
Multi-spoke cast aluminium
Rim Size Front
17 x MT3.5
Rim Size Rear
17 x MT4.5
Tyres Front
120/70ZR – 17M/C
Tyres Rear
160/60ZR – 17M/C
BRAKES
ABS System Type
2 channel
Type Front
Single wavy disk, 320 mm, 2 piston caliper
Type Rear
Single wavy disk, 240 mm, 1 piston caliper
INSTRUMENTS & ELECTRICS
Instruments
Digital speedometer, digital bar graph tachometer, dual trip meters, digital fuel level gauge & fuel consumption gauge, digital clock, gear position indicator
Motorcycle racing could return to Wanneroo Raceway in 2019
Following the return of recreational motorcycle activities to Barbagallo Raceway in September 2018, WA Sporting Car Club (WASCC) and Motorcycling Western Australia (MWA) entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in order to address works required to the circuit so that motorcycle racing can re-commence.
Wayne Maxwell, Mike Jones, Glenn Allerton – Wanneroo 2016 – Image Keith Muir
The MOU, jointly signed by WASCC President Russell Sewell and MWA President Tracy Simpson, pledged WASCC and MWA to cooperate in a spirit of mutual understanding and to develop a closer relationship of goodwill. Within a matter of weeks of the MOU being suggested, the commitment to work together resulted in a solution for the return of motorcycle racing at Barbagallo Raceway.
Ben Henry leads Ryan Hampton and Mike Jones – Wanneroo 2015 – Image Andrew Gosling
Subsequent to the presentation of a concept design by MWA, WASCC consultant engineer, Steve Brake of Calibre Consultants, prepared technical and works drawings in accordance with the requirements of Motorcycle Australia’s Track Guidelines – 2018 as well as the run-off calculations as indicated in Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries’ Hall Report.
MWA forwarded these drawings to Motorcycling Australia (MA) who have provided written confirmation that, pending successful completion of the works and a subsequent inspection, MA would issue Barbagallo Raceway an appropriate license.
Kings of Wanneroo 2014 – Image Steve Thibou
WASCC is currently reviewing the scope of works and obtaining costings with a view to dove-tailing the works into its programmed major works schedule in January 2019, concurrent with a planned re-surface of the raceway.
Motorcycle Racing Club WA and WASCC have agreed dates for the MCRCWA racing and other activities calendar for 2019 (pending issue of the MA track license). Members of MCRCWA were briefed by its Executive at a Town Hall meeting held on Wednesday, 7th November.
WASCC President Russell Sewell
“This is an exciting development for the sport of motorcycle racing in Western Australia following the unfortunate, extended absence from Barbagallo raceway. The new spirit of cooperation between the two main bodies representing tarmac based motorsports in Western Australia has been fruitful at both the Executive and management levels.”
2016 ASBK at Wanneroo – Image Trevor Hedge
MWA President Tracy Simpson welcomed the new agreement between the two bodies and noted that it was an important step towards getting motorcycle racing back at Barbagallo raceway. Tracy said that it has been a focus for MWA and new CEO Joe McCarthy to work with all parties to enable racing to resume at Barbagallo and is thrilled that a detailed plan has been provisionally approved for 2019.
MV Agusta Dragster RR ‘America’ pays homage to iconic S America 750
The ‘America’ name holds a special place in MV Agusta’s history, as far back as the 1975 S America 750 which boasted a 75hp in-line air-cooled DOHC four-cylinder and would later make a reappearance in 2012 as the Brutale America in red, white and blue thanks to Massimo Tamburini.
Arriving in 2019 is the Dragster 800 RR ‘America’ a limited edition model of which only 200 will be produced
The first three-cylinder Brutale America was introduced last year, and thanks to its success the CRC workshop have created the Dragster 800 RR version. This new “America” carries the iconic colour scheme on a mica blue base with horizontal graphic cuts that enhance the styling of the Dragster 800 RR.
While early America editions were four-cylinders, more recent versions have used the modern MV triple
The upper part of the fuel tank on the new Dragster 800 RR America is adorned with stars, just like on the 750 S from forty-five years ago. The saddle boasts stitching with gold highlights and different materials for the areas dedicated to the rider and the passenger. The wheels pay homage to the colours of the American flag, incorporating the colours into the hub, spokes and rim.
Styling cues pay their due to the original S 750 America, on a much more modern platform
The glossy black finish of specific components also stands out, such as the front mudguard with the MV Agusta logo and the radiator cover. An “America Special Edition” decal is found on the instrument cluster cover along with the production number.
The limited nature of the machine is shown by the numbered plaque above the adjustable CRC damper
The MV Agusta Dragster 800 RR America will be made in a limited edition of just 200 units, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity.
Dragster 800 RR platform
The Dragster 800 RR underwent a complete re-design with the 2018 model year, with the addition of a LED rear light cluster, Daylight Running Lights, and the evolution of the Euro4 Brutale 800 RR derived three-cylinder engine.
The Dragster 800 RR saw a host of updated in 2018, carried onto the America in 2019
Developments in recent years have further optimised combustion, electronic throttle management and performance while decreasing mechanical noise and vibrations. A revised gearbox engages the gears more quickly and it is more precise and reliable. The EAS 2.0 “Up and Down” electronically assisted shifting is also featured as part of the electronics package that includes adjustable traction control and customisable engine maps.
Powered by the four-stroke three-cylinder DOHC engine, the MV Agusta Dragster 800 RR America has a capacity of 798cc, bore and stroke of 79 x 54.3mm and compression ratio of 13.3:1.
The heart of the Dragster RR America is the DOHC 798cc triple-cylinder
Power output is 140hp at 12,300rpm, with peak torque of 87Nm at 10,100rpm. The America features the latest MVICS 2.0 control system, with six injectors, two per cylinder, and an Eldor EM2.0 ECU. Throttle is full ride-by-wire by Mikuni, with four torque control maps and eight-level traction control.
The MV EAS 2.0 quickshifter joins a hydraulically actuated wet clutch, with back torque limited device, while the gearbox is a cassete style six-speed.
The eye catching steel trellis frame in red stands out
The ALS steel tubular trellis frame is mated to an aluminium alloy swingarm, with pivot plates of the same material, while standard suspension is 43mm Marzocchi USD forks with DLC treatment, and rebound-compression and preload adjustability. The rear shock is a progressive Sachs unit and is fully adjustable. A standard steering damper is also fitted with eight levels of adjustment.
2019 MV Agusta Dragster RR America
Brakes are dual 320mm steel discs on the front, with Brembo radial four-piston calipers with 32mm pistons, while a single 220mm rear steel disc and Brembo two-piston caliper is also fited. ABS is provided by a Bosch 9+ unit with RLM.
Wheels are aluminium alloy spoked items, with a 3.50 x 17in front and 6.00 x 17in rear, taking 120/70 – 17 and 200/50 – 17 tyres.
Full Brembo brakes join 43mm Marzocchi forks on the front end
2019 MV Agusta Dragster 800 RR America Specifications2019 MV Agusta Dragster RR America
Bosch shows the team at Arch Motorcycles the benefits of ABS.
Begin Press Release:
Ride Fully Alive
ABS technology: Making riding safer and better
Go inside as ARCH Motorcycle and Bosch bring ABS to the KRGT-1 motorcycle
The Backstory
Arch Motorcycle creates custom production motorcycles with a unique blend of performance and customization tailored to each individual owner. Bosch has a clear vision: no more fatalities for motorcyclists in road traffic. When the two companies met at a trade show, they saw an opportunity to introduce Bosch’s safety features to ARCH riders, focusing first on integrating two-wheel ABS (anti-lock braking system) into Arch’s high-performance model, the KRGT-1. The technology supports the rider while braking, even in case of hard braking or on slippery roads. It prevents wheel lockup, ensures vehicle stability and optimal deceleration while braking. Motorcycle ABS, therefore, contributes to reducing the risk of falling and to shorten the stopping distance.
ARCH Motorcycles
ARCH Motorcycle creates custom production motorcycles with a unique blend of performance, customization and attention to detail. Ergonomic and aesthetic preferences are curated and tailored to create a one-of-a-kind motorcycle directly reflective of its owner. Over 200 proprietary parts are manufactured at their California facility using state-of-the-art CNC and water-jet machinery. Impeccable billet aluminum bodywork is blended with carbon fiber details and custom finishes to produce each unique motorcycle. At right: ARCH Motorcycle co-founders Gard Hollinger and Keanu Reeves, R&D/production manager Ryan Boyd.
Bosch
Bosch is the market leader for two-wheeler safety systems. These systems reduce the risk of accidents, especially in hazardous riding conditions, by intervening in critical situations without compromising on riding dynamics. The motorcycle ABS system was developed specifically for two-wheelers, and offers the right safety system for every segment of the two-wheeler market. The Two-Wheeler & Powersports business unit at Bosch sits within the Bosch Mobility Solutions business sector. The global team features many motorcycle riders and its goal is to make motorcycles safer and more efficient.
We have often seen manufacturers trot out ‘concept models at shows such as this week’s EICMA, it is also pretty easy to deduce which ones are pretty much already green-lighted for production. I am fairly sure that this Aprilia RS 660 Concept is a firm pointer towards a new 660cc parallel-twin platfrom that is imminent from the Noale based manufacturer.
Aprilia RS 660 Concept
Aprilia RS 660 Concept
In Aprilia’s words
With the Concept RS 660, Aprilia researches a new concept of sportiness, defined by the ratio between exuberant but easy-to-manage engine performance, a frame and suspension par excellence and the light weight of the vehicle.
The Concept RS 660 is a possible response to the demand of new generations for fun bikes that are capable of thrilling on the road as well as on the occasional track day.
Aprilia RS 660 Concept
The Concept RS 660 interprets the concept of sportiness in accordance with extremely modern canons, the consequence of in depth technological research and the extremes of aerodynamic solutions that are unrestricted by any regulations.
The result is a product that is unique in its kind: a medium engine capacity twin-cylinder, attractive and accessible, that provides extremely high technological content, even higher than bikes in superior categories.
Therefore, RS 660 is a possible option for young riders coming up from smaller engine sizes, looking for a high level sport bike that can provide thrills and fun on a day to day basis on the road and ready to support the rider on the track too.
Aprilia RS 660 Concept
The design: cutting-edge aerodynamics
Aprilia Concept RS 660 stands out above all for its style, innovative and sophisticated, that stems from a series of aerodynamic studies. With a tendency born in the highest levels of racing, aerodynamics is currently under intense development in the motorcycle sector, so the Concept RS 660 is able to explore concepts such as aerodynamic load control.
Out of the work done in the wind tunnel and from the resulting solutions, the shape of a bike was born where the lines are an absolute and direct consequence of the functions. The variable front section, the air flow direction and the variable downforce values transformed into opportunities for the Style Centre which created ultra modern dynamic shapes.
Aprilia RS 660 Concept
The concept offers a comfortable riding position, thanks to the large saddle located on the sleek tail fairing, footpegs that are not too high and a pair of semi-handlebars mounted on top of the upper steering yoke. The result is a saddle-handlebar-footpeg triangulation that is sporty yet comfortable, to the advantage of riding pleasure and comfort.
Aprilia chassis architecture, quality bar-setter
Aprilia’s know-how in packaging super fine chassis architectures is recognised the world over. In observance of this tradition, the Concept RS 660 Concept provides a magnificent structure made up of an aluminium frame and swingarm.
Aprilia RS 660 Concept
In the concept, the frame exploits the engine as a stressed element, contributing to form a compact and stiff structure. The right arm of the swingarm has a curved shape in order to all the exhaust terminal to pass. The particular mounting of the shock absorber allows outstanding progression to be obtained without using linkage, thereby cutting down on weight and making it a cleaner package overall.
The new parallel twin-cylinder for a new generation of bikes
Aprilia RS 660 Concept
RS 660 was born around the concept of a new engine that Aprilia engineers are already working on, a 660 cc parallel twin-cylinder, a very compact new generation unit derived from the 1100 cc V4 that powers the Tuono V4 and RSV4 1100 Factory.
This configuration was chosen for its compact nature and efficiency, the extremely low level of heat transmitted to the rider and for the freedom that it leaves the designers to create a sleek and lightweight frame and suspension.
The RS 660 project is the development base for a wider range that intends to make Aprilia a key player in an extremely strategic market segment in Europe, but also in Asia and the American market.
Suzuki Motorcycles Australia has announced an on-line only purchasing method for its new Suzuki Katana.
Suzuki Katana will come in black or grey
With high demand and limited supply, Suzuki will take orders exclusively online, offering customers a premium buying experience along the way in the lead up to arrival in the third quarter of 2019.
Suzuki Katana will come in black or grey
As an added bonus and gesture of Suzuki’s appreciation for customer commitment and patience, the first 50 Katana pre-ordered online will also receive a bonus exclusive Katana themed Arai QV-Pro helmet, valued at $995 with their bike delivery.
Suzuki Katana
As for price, Suzuki have not let that completely out of the bag as yet but tell us that they are hoping to keep the final price under 20k ride away. For now a $1000 deposit is required to secure your new Katana.
Suzuki Katana
Lewis Croft, Suzuki Australia
“This is an exciting initiative that ensures a unique and premium experience for new Katana customers.
Suzuki Katana
“The Katana is a very special model for Suzuki, it’s not just another model in an already crowded market. Availability will be limited, therefore we will be taking orders on behalf of our dealer network to ensure we can supply genuine customer orders.
Suzuki Katana
“Our online approach allows customers to secure their Katana whilst also nominating their preferred authorised Suzuki motorcycle dealer for delivery, they also have the ability to arrange finance and insurance quotes and also trade-in valuations if required, prior to arrival.
Suzuki Katana (with accessories)
“Customers wanting a printed brochure can still access them from their Suzuki dealership. Any customers unable to complete the online order themselves can simply visit a dealership, who will be able to guide them through the online ordering process onsite at the dealership” concluded Croft.
The new Suzuki Katana pays homage to the iconic 1981 GSX1100S Katana, the new Katana is destined to create a new legend.
Suzuki Katana
At the heart of the Katana’s powerful performance is a long-stroke 999cm3 inline-four cylinder engine producing 110kW (148 hp) power at 10,000rpm with 108 Nm of torque at 9,500rpm. Both the induction roar and exhaust note are tuned to heighten the visceral senses.
Suzuki Katana
Power is transferred to the tarmac through a back-torque-limiting clutch, Suzuki’s three-mode traction control system and new Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 tyres featuring a carcass designed exclusively for the new Katana.
Suzuki Katana
The compact, lightweight twin-spar aluminium chassis is engineered to provide agility, ease of control and a fun-to-ride character riders will enjoy. It is also aimed to perform best in real world riding conditions on public roads, in city traffic, on the highway, or on rural and twisty roads.
Suzuki Katana
43mm KYB inverted front forks give a ride that is sporty yet plush. They feature fully adjustable damping, rebound, compression and spring preload. A single KYB rear shock features adjustable rebound damping and spring pre-load.
Suzuki Katana
310mm Fujico disc brakes are paired with Brembo radial mount Monobloc front brake calipers featuring four opposing 32 mm pistons to provide powerful braking performance. The Bosch Antilock Brake System (ABS) control unit is extremely compact and light weighing only 640g.
Suzuki Katana
Distinctive styling points abound. The LED headlight and LED front position lights accent the sharp lines of the cowling that covers the custom-designed instrument panel.
Suzuki Katana
A black and grey two-tone seat features a stepped design that maintains the sleek profile of the Katana while ensuring a comfortable riding position and positive footing for the rider.
Suzuki Katana
The Katana introduces a small rear fender supported by the swingarm that hugs the rear tyre. Moving it, along with the rear LED indicators and license plate holder, to this position eliminates parts extending from under the seat to give the tail section cleaner lines and a tougher, lighter new look.
Harley-Davidson has been working on electric motorcycles for a long time now, and MCNews.com.au had a brief ride on a LiveWire prototype in Malaysia almost four years ago. The machine had plenty of get up and go, and due to straight cut gears in the transmission system it even sounded pretty good.
Harley-Davidson LiveWire
Since then Harley have not only continued electric motorcycle development by themselves, but have also partnered with other companies. The most promising partnership came about early this year with Harley making an investment in cutting-edge San Francisco based electric motorcycle maker Alta. Alas, that partnership must have ended in tears as Harley exited the agreement six months later.
Harley-Davidson LiveWire
A now seemingly production ready Harley-Davidson LiveWire made its European debut at a press conference held at the EICMA show in Milan this week with confirmation that the LiveWire will go on sale next year in many markets. Australia and New Zealand are currently slated for a 2020 release.
Harley-Davidson LiveWire
Propelled by the immediate torque of an all-electric motor, Harley claim;
‘LiveWire motorcycle is capable of astounding acceleration with just a twist of the throttle – no clutching or gear shifting required.’
‘A low centre of gravity, rigid aluminum frame and premium adjustable suspension components give the LiveWire dynamic handling.’
‘Performance and range are optimised for the urban street-rider.’
That last sentence suggests that it will be primarily designed as a short range commuter machine, as one would expect as we all wait for battery technology to become compact enough for a touring machine.
Harley-Davidson LiveWire
Harley-Davidson LiveWire
The LiveWire motorcycle is powered by a permanent magnet electric motor that produces instant torque the moment that throttle is twisted resulting in incredible acceleration performance for a thrilling ride.
Harley-Davidson LiveWire
The motor is located low in the motorcycle to lower the center of gravity and help the motorcycle handle well at all speeds as well as making it easy to control when stationary.
Harley-Davidson LiveWire
The LiveWire model is designed to produce a tone that increases in pitch and volume with speed – a new sound that represents the smooth, electric power of the LiveWire motorcycle.
Harley-Davidson LiveWire
Powertrain performance is maximised by a chassis designed to deliver nimble, agile handling for confident control on urban streets and a thrilling ride on curving backroads. Combining the powertrain as a stressed member within the aluminium frame to increase rigidity, the LiveWire features high-performance fully adjustable Showa suspension.
Harley-Davidson LiveWire
The Showa BFRC-lite (Balanced Free Rear Cushion-lite) mono-shock rear suspension is complimented by Showa SFF-BP (Separate Function Fork-Big Piston) up front, balanced to match the performance and adjustability of the rear shock and deliver exceptional low-speed damping control – ideal for composed control in typical urban riding conditions.
Harley-Davidson LiveWire
To improve the control and performance of the motorcycle further, LiveWire is fitted with Brembo Monoblock front brake calipers gripping dual 300 mm-diameter discs to deliver outstanding power with a crisp feel for confident braking performance.
Harley-Davidson LiveWire
Confidence when riding is enhanced with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Traction Control System (TCS) – both of which are standard features on the LiveWire model – and co-branded H-D/Michelin Scorcher tyres (180mm rear/120mm front).
Harley-Davidson LiveWire
The rider can also tailor the performance of LiveWire with seven selectable riding modes – four of which are set as standard from the factory and a further three modes that can be defined by the user.
Harley-Davidson LiveWire
A colour touch screen TFT display (thin-film-transistor, a type of liquid-crystal display noted for high image quality and contrast) located above the handlebar offers the rider a wide range of information on a screen that’s bright and easy to read. The display unit is tilt-adjustable to afford most riders a perfect viewing angle. The TFT screen also allows the rider to access the interface for Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, music and more.
Harley-Davidson LiveWire
The LiveWire motorcycle features a RESS (Rechargeable Energy Storage System, or the main battery) composed of lithium-ion cells surrounded by a finned, cast-aluminum housing. The LiveWire motorcycle is also equipped with a small 12-volt lithium-ion battery that powers the lights, controls, horn and instrument display. Charging can be completed using an on-board Level 1 charger that plugs into a standard household outlet with a power cord that stores below the motorcycle seat.
Harley-Davidson LiveWire
LiveWire can also be charged with a Level 2 and Level 3, or DC Fast Charge (DCFC), through a SAE J1772 connector, (USA), or CCS2 – IEC type 2 charging connector in international markets. All Harley-Davidson dealers who sell the LiveWire motorcycle will offer a public charging station.
Harley-Davidson LiveWire
The LiveWire’s style is just as stunning as the performance and follows a key Harley-Davidson styling dictum: the focus is on the motor. Just as the V-Twin engine is the most eye-catching element – the crown jewel – of every previous Harley-Davidson motorcycle, the electric motor is the first-look focus of the LiveWire motorcycle. Its bright case and mechanical, muscular shape is meant to convey the power it contains.
Harley-Davidson LiveWire
In addition, the cast-aluminum case for the RESS has been styled with functional cooling fins the bodywork, finished utilizing advanced paint technology to give the look of anodized metal, flows from a battery cover through to a high, wasp-like contoured tail section, with a rear fender that hugs the wheel so tightly that is almost disappears from sight.
Harley-Davidson LiveWire
The all-new Harley-Davidson LiveWire will be on sale in select markets next year. For Australia and New Zealand Livewire will be released in late 2020.
Cardo Systems and Ducati have partnered to produce branded PackTalk communicators for Ducati dealerships. Guess what color they are.
Begin Press Release:
CARDO PARTNERS TO PRODUCE DEDICATED PACKTALK UNITS FOR DUCATI
Partnership Builds On Cardo’s Commitment to Integrate Motorcycles and Communicators
Milan, Italy (Nov. 6, 2018) –Cardo Systems, Ltd. the global market leader in wireless communication systems for motorcyclists, and Ducati Motor Holdings S.p.A. manufacturer of the world’s most attractive motorcycles, have partnered to produce dedicated PACKTALK units, designed in the classic Ducati red for the 2019 riding season. The collaboration represents the next evolution of Cardo’s commitment to integrate motorcycles and communicators.
“Ducati’s motorcycles are among the world’s most coveted bikes and the company is second to none in terms of innovative design, advanced engineering and overall technical excellence. These are also qualities we admire and remain committed to implementing them in every product we design and produce,” said Dr. Abraham Glezerman, Cardo’s founder and CEO.“Ducati is a world-class brand, and an ideal partner to help further our commitment to integrate industry leading communication systems with motorcycles.”
PACKTALK products are powered by Cardo’s proprietary and pioneering mesh technology (“DMC”) and give riders the ability to enjoy the company of their riding companions like never before by remaining seamlessly connected with up to 15 riders. Riders can also enjoy a safe riding experience utilizing Cardo’s unique natural voice-command by simply saying, “Hey Cardo” with the desired action to the always-on system and it reacts instantaneously. No other product in the market offers such seamless voice command technology, in 8 different langugaes. Users will have instant access to their mobile device, GPS and music. Plus, riders will enjoy world-class sound for the best riding experience possible thanks to Sound by JBL.
In October, Cardo Systems and Bosch SoftTech announced the integration of the Cardo ConnectiOS and Android smartphone application into Bosch SoftTech mySPIN for two-wheelers. The award-winning technology enables convenient use of Cardo Connect on motorcycles and other two-wheelers for a whole new connected riding experience without compromising safety.
Cardo Systems PACKTALK units will be available exclusively through Ducati official networkworldwide in spring of 2019.
After seeing first hand the lengths that KTM have gone to in order to make the dimensions of their new 75-degree offset crank-pin 790 cc parallel twin as minimalist as possible, and then sampling how strong and linear the performance of the 435-degree firing interval engine is myself over many kilometres of fanging the 790 Duke, I am dying to see just how well this engine will translate in to the 790 Adventure, but unfortunately we are going to have to wait until its June 2019 arrival to sample it!
KTM 799cc Parallel Twin – LC8c
KTM quote 95 horsepower at 8000 rpm and 88 Nm at 6600 rpm for both 790 Adventure models. This is 10 hp down on the 790 Duke, but the claimed 88 Nm torque is marginally higher while at 6600 rpm, that peak twist arrives 1400 rpm earlier than the 790 Duke.
LC8c cylinder head
The incredibly small engine packaging (only fractionally larger externally than the 375cc single in the 390 Duke), gives KTM the room to fit a long swingarm and more space for the fuel cell.
Fuel tank extends down the sides of the KTM 790 Adventure
The small engine dimensions also allow for plenty of ground clearance while maintaining a reasonable seat height.
KTM 790 Adventure
Clearance on the 790 Adventure is 233 mm while the 790 Adventure R has 263 mm of clearance.
KTM 790 Adventure R
Seat height on the Adventure is adjustable between 830 and 850 mm while the saddle on the 790 Adventure R is a taller 880 mm.
KTM 790 Adventure R
Both are also claimed to tip the scales at 189kg without their 20-litre fuel cells being topped up.
KTM 790 Adventure Fuel cell
Thus we can extrapolate that the 790 Adventure weighs in at 204kg fully fuelled and ready to ride.
KTM 790 Adventure R
Again those slim and compact engine dimensions have played their part in keeping the fuel low with the tank extending down alongside the engine, similar to what we once saw in the 990 Adventure models some years ago.
KTM 790 Adventure R
KTM claim a fuel range as high as 450 km from the new bikes and while this might be possible when being nursed, realistically a rider will more likely able to count on a 350+ km range in most touring duties.
KTM 790 Adventure
Predictably, KTM owned WP provides the suspension for both bikes.
KTM 790 Adventure WP Shock
Inverted 43 mm forks on the Adventure grow to more premium 48 mm XLPOR forks in the R.
KTM 790 Adventure and Adventure R forks (Right)
Suspension travel at both ends is 200 mm for the Adventure and 240 mm on the R.
KTM 790 Adventure
Both bikes roll on an 18-21 inch spoked rim combination.
KTM 790 Adventure R
Easily adjusted from the left bar-mounted menu switch, the KTM 790 Adventure has different ride modes to enable riders to explore the full potential of the bike.
KTM 790 Adventure
Street, Offroad and Rain riding modes, along with the optional Rally mode (standard on the R), alter the behaviour and feeling of the engine.
KTM 790 Adventure and Adventure R feature radial mount four-piston calipers and 320 mm discs up front and 260 mm rear
Changing a ride mode changes the throttle response, the traction control level and, depending on the mode, the peak power.
KTM 790 Adventure
The KTM 790 Adventure is also equipped with the state-of-the-art TFT display. Easily readable in all conditions, the full color, 5″ screen’s configuration is variable and automatically adapts to changes in environmental light.
KTM 790 Adventure
The main information is arranged in a position where the rider can immediately see it, while additional displayed information can be chosen by the rider with the integrated KTM MY RIDE system is integrated. This allows pairing with a smartphone for receiving (or rejecting) phone calls, listening to music and, using the optional app, navigating with on screen turn-by-turn directions along with audio prompts.
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