Motorcycle News, News

New Gear: Highway 21 Winslo Sunglasses

Leave a comment
Highway 21 Winslo Sunglasses

Take in the views and vistas of your ride without having to squint in the sunlight with the Highway 21 Winslo Sunglasses. Crafted specifically for motorcycle riders, the Winslo sunglasses feature rugged polycarbonate lenses to deflect road hazards, as well as oleophobic, hydrophobic, and flash mirror coatings to keep the lenses clear.

See all of Rider’s apparel reviews here.

With a clean and simple design, Winslo sunglasses combine safety and style so riders can see clearer while looking cooler.

Select models feature polarized lenses for an added level of eye protection. The Highway 21 Winslo Sunglasses are available in Black for $59.95.

SHOP FOR HIGHWAY 21 WINSLO SUNGLASSES

The post New Gear: Highway 21 Winslo Sunglasses first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

Facebook, News, WSBK

Got to ride my 2023 bike today. Even the track wasn’t perfect we have been able start working for next season. Thanks to all my …

Leave a comment

Got to ride my 2023 bike today. Even the track wasn’t perfect we have been able start working for next season. Thanks to all my team for the big effort. Now some holidays for me!
.
📸 @geebeeimages 
.
@krt_worldsbk @alpinestars @araieu @monsterenergy @medallia_inc  @showaperformance @vitusbikes @oakleymotorsports @insidebikes #team65


Source: Jonathan Rea On Facebook

Motorcycle News, News

Sir Alan Cathcart’s New Ducati Book Is Out!

Leave a comment

The world’s most prolific motojournalist and MO contributor, Alan Cathcart’s latest book is out, and just in time for the holidays! Entitled Ducati Superbike 1988-2001, as the name suggests, this one covers the history of the Ducati factory’s Superbike racers during the desmoquattro era, when the new generation testastretta engine was introduced – from a hands-on perspective:

I was fortunate to be the only journalist in the world to have track tested all but two of the factory Ducati desmo V-twin Superbikes, writes Sir Al, which participated in the Superbike World Championship down the years from its foundation in 1988 up to 2015. This book is a compendium of such tests covering the years in the title.

My assessments of each bike frequently include the crucial insight of the men who raced them for the Italian factory, including Carl Fogarty, Troy Corser, Doug Polen, Giancarlo Falappa and Troy Bayliss. And not to be overlooked are the book’s exclusive photos, which show these historic Ducati factory racers both with and without bodywork, allowing Superbike race fans to admire the invariably previously hidden secrets of these wonderful bikes.

Ducati Superbike 1988-2001 is available in a limited edition of 996 copies (of course!) as a large-format 11.8 x 9 inches (30 x 23 cm) hardcover volume printed on quality paper, with 160 pages and 91 full page photos. It costs €35.00 (US$36.73 today) plus shipping, anywhere in the world. The book is only available via mail order to be sent duty-free anywhere in the world; books are generally not subject to import tax in any country.

The book has been published in two languages, English and Italian, by Cathcart’s colleagues at FBA Moto Italiane in Firenze, Italy, and full details and sample pages are available at their website here.

Become a Motorcycle.com insider. Get the latest motorcycle news first by subscribing to our newsletter here.

The post Sir Alan Cathcart’s New Ducati Book Is Out! appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

Motorcycle News, News

TransAmerica Trail Part 3 | Ep. 50 Rider Magazine Insider Podcast

Leave a comment
Ep50 Rider Magazine Insider Podcast Dave Scott Part 3

Our guest on Episode 50 of the Rider Magazine Insider Podcast is Dave Scott, who completed a solo journey on the TransAmerica Trail. This is Part 3 of a three-part interview. We spoke to Scott in Episodes 46 and 48, where he told us about the challenges of riding the TAT during the Covid-19 pandemic, dealing with hurricanes and Mississippi mud, and then crashing on Imogene Pass in Colorado, where he broke his leg. Scott spent the winter and spring healing up, and in the summer of 2021, he returned to the TransAmerica Trail. After conquering Imogene Pass, he rode through Utah, Wyoming, Idaho, and Oregon, where he finally made it to the end of the trail and dipped his tires in the Pacific Ocean. This is another unfiltered, uncensored conversation about the trials and tribulations of riding solo across America on a dirtbike. Look for Part 1 of Scott’s story in the adventure-themed November 2022 issue of Rider and on our website here, with Part 2 coming soon in 2023.

LINKS: TransAmTrail.com

You can listen to Episode 50 on iTunes, Spotify, and SoundCloud, or via the Rider Magazine Insider Podcast webpage. Please subscribe, leave us a 5-star rating, and tell your friends! Scroll down for a list of previous episodes.

Visit the Rider Magazine Insider Podcast webpage to check out previous episodes:

 

The post TransAmerica Trail Part 3 | Ep. 50 Rider Magazine Insider Podcast first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

Motorcycle News, News

Motorcycle Tips: Back Brake Benefits

Leave a comment
Motorcycle Tips Back Brake Benefits
Motor officer Quinn Redeker is a master of rear brake control. Photo by Greg Drevenstedt.

Rear brakes aren’t a hot topic in today’s motoverse, nor are they necessarily among the most sought-after motorcycle tips. In fact, they’re kind of boring when the front binders on modern bikes provide so much stopping power, often with a single finger on the lever, but they’re still important. 

According to the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, front brakes provide approximately 70% of a motorcycle’s maximal stopping power, leaving around 30% to the single rear brake. But many factors affect this ratio, such as speed, tire grip, road surface, road gradient, and type of motorcycle. Cruisers and touring bikes with long wheelbases benefit from rear braking to a greater degree than short-wheelbase motorcycles like sportbikes. 

Hard braking at the front can lighten the rear end so much that it can be hard to take advantage of whatever percentage of braking is available back there. That’s a lesson I hadn’t learned yet when my ’83 Suzuki GS750ES, which had some serious stoppers, was new.

When used correctly, the rear brake improves control and stopping distance and also helps negotiate U-turns quickly and safely.

See all of Rider’s Motorcycle Tips & Tricks here.

Settling Down

My enlightenment came later with my ’87 Kawasaki KLR650, a venerable dual-sport notable for its large gas tank and weak single-disc stoppers at both ends. Having to use both binders to effect a short stop was a (not quite) crash course in rear brake use. Only then did I realize that doing so also attenuated dive and recoil from the KLR’s long-travel front suspension, keeping the bike closer to level throughout the stop.

This “Aha!” moment was a breakthrough in both stopping and overall control. Riding my Honda VFR750F at CLASS, Reg Pridmore’s track-based safety course, only reinforced that lesson. I wasn’t the fastest or the smoothest student rider, but when it came to the braking exercise – which required using both brakes – 19 years aboard KLRs had me stopping like a pro.

Motorcycle Tips Back Brake Benefits
Skills expert (and regular Rider contributor) Eric Trow competing in a police-style precision riding competition. Precise rear braking technique is essen-tial for maintaining control and balance. Photo courtesy Harley-Davidson.

To prove the value of the rear brake to yourself, practice emergency stops (full braking power but without locking either wheel or engaging the ABS) with only the front brake, and then with both. When both brakes are applied, the bike should squat, pitching less at the front. The longer your front suspension travel, the bigger difference it makes. (On Telelever-equipped BMWs and other motorcycles with suspension systems that minimize front-end dive, the change in chassis pitch will be less noticeable.) The same technique but with a lighter touch on both brakes will give you more secure stops on loose or slippery surfaces. 

Turn It Around

We’ve all missed a turnoff, forcing us to make a U-turn to get back on course. Performing one without putting a foot down – or worse, having to stop, back up, and take another stab at it – is a skill we should all master. I learned better technique doing test bike photoshoots for Rider, which require numerous U-turns, often on narrow roads, to get the right shot.

Motorcycle Tips Back Brake Benefits
For U-turns, use light pressure on the rear brake, keep the clutch in the friction zone, and look where you want to go. Photo by Pete Tamblyn.

The key is to apply light pressure to the rear brake through the turn. The benefits are two-fold: shortening your bike’s turning radius and damping any unintended throttle inputs. 

Practice in a parking lot, gradually reducing the number of parking spaces it takes to turn around. Just remember that it’s a light touch on the rear stopper; too much and you risk a fall. Keep your eyes up and look where you want to go, and keep the clutch in the friction zone for delicate power control. Also, keeping your feet on the pegs and weighting the outside peg yields the best results.

With practice, using the rear brake at slow speeds makes your U-turns steadier, faster, and safer.

Driveway Moments

You’re pulling out of a driveway, front wheel cocked, when a car appears from behind parked vehicles. While still on the driveway apron, you tap the front brake, which immediately pitches the bike in the direction of the turn. Quick thinking and a strong leg may keep it upright.

Motorcycle Tips Back Brake Benefits
Using the rear brake when stopping before a turn keeps the bike from leaning unexpectedly on uneven surfaces. Photo by James Norris.

Next time, try using the rear brake as you reach the driveway apron. If you have to stop, use only the rear brake, which won’t make the bike pitch sideways since the rear wheel doesn’t affect steering or balance. The safest way to prove this to yourself is on a bicycle, where mistakes have milder consequences. Move up to a motorcycle when you’re confident with the technique.

By using these tips, the back brake may become your new best friend.

The post Motorcycle Tips: Back Brake Benefits first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

News

2022 CFMOTO Papio

Leave a comment

The CFMOTO Papio goes head to head against Honda’s Grom and Kawasaki’s Z125 Pro in the mini streetbike category.

The CFMOTO Papio goes head to head against Honda’s Grom and Kawasaki’s Z125 Pro in the mini streetbike category. (CFMOTO/)

Ups

  • 6-speed transmission
  • Low maintenance
  • 5-click preload-adjustable rear suspension

Downs

  • Fewer aftermarket options compared to Grom and Z125 Pro

Verdict

CFMOTO’s Papio is a well-sorted entry into the mini-moto class. Features like a six-speed transmission and low sticker price help the bike stand out in a category that rewards a strong balance between style, performance, entertainment value, and price.

Important things to consider when looking at the Papio are the price advantage over bikes like the Honda Grom and Kawasaki Z125 Pro, but also the fewer aftermarket options available for this model. Customization is key in the mini-moto space, and there will be more aftermarket parts available for the Honda and Kawasaki.

The Papio’s sport-inspired bodywork is available in two colors: yellow and Grey/Red Dragon. MSRP is $2,999, compared to $3,499 for the Honda Grom and $3,399 for the Kawasaki Z125 Pro.

The Papio’s sport-inspired bodywork is available in two colors: yellow and Grey/Red Dragon. MSRP is $2,999, compared to $3,499 for the Honda Grom and $3,399 for the Kawasaki Z125 Pro. (CFMOTO/)

Overview

If you’ve been even remotely active in the moto community over the last decade, you’ve likely noticed a peculiar emergence of small-displacement, inexpensive mini streetbikes from notable Japanese companies like Honda and Kawasaki. Well, Hangzhou, China-based CFMOTO noticed this as well, introducing to its 2022 seven-moto lineup its own 126cc mini streetbike: the Papio.

CFMOTO clearly studied the competition, as the Papio has a similar look and feel to Honda’s Grom and Kawasaki’s Z125 Pro. Behind the bold colors and traditional mini-moto styling, there’s a rather impressive list of features, including a six-speed transmission, full LED lighting, a digital display, and five-click adjustable rear suspension.

By not venturing too far from the prerequisites of style, fun, and affordable performance, CFMOTO has built a worthwhile contender for new riders, as well as experienced motorcyclists looking for affordable and fun around-town transportation.

There’s no doubt CFMOTO studied the competition before building the Papio. Styling isn’t far from the Grom or Z125 Pro, and specs mostly align with those two models. The benefit for consumers is a bike that has a slight cost advantage over the competition, but similar looks and feel.

There’s no doubt CFMOTO studied the competition before building the Papio. Styling isn’t far from the Grom or Z125 Pro, and specs mostly align with those two models. The benefit for consumers is a bike that has a slight cost advantage over the competition, but similar looks and feel. (CFMOTO/)

Updates for 2022

There are no updates for the 2022 CFMOTO Papio as this is the bike’s first year in the CFMOTO lineup.

Pricing and Variants

The Papio comes in at a modest $2,999, less than its Japanese competitors. Variations are limited to colors, with the 2022 Papio available in either yellow or Grey/Red Dragon.

Mini motos like the Papio are great for running neighborhood errands, transportation at the RV park, and even getting up to speed as a new rider.

Mini motos like the Papio are great for running neighborhood errands, transportation at the RV park, and even getting up to speed as a new rider. (CFMOTO/)

Competition

Multiple manufacturers have followed Honda into the mini-moto category, creating an interesting list of options for those looking for small-displacement fun. The Honda Grom ($3,499) and Kawasaki Z125 Pro ($3,399) are the biggest hitters in the space, but there are more options, including the CSC City Slicker ($2,795), Benelli TNT135 ($3,199), Kymco K-Pipe 125 ($2,249), and the SSR Razkull 125 ($1,199).

Honda’s lineup also includes the Navi ($1,807), Super Cub C125 ($3,849), Trail 125 ($3,999), and Monkey ($4,249).

Unlike much of its ICE competitors, the Papio is equipped with a six-speed transmission.

The Papio uses a 126cc air-cooled four-stroke engine with electronic fuel injection. The engine is claimed to produce 9 hp and 6.1 lb.-ft. of torque.

The Papio uses a 126cc air-cooled four-stroke engine with electronic fuel injection. The engine is claimed to produce 9 hp and 6.1 lb.-ft. of torque. (CFMOTO/)

Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Plopped into the chassis of the Papio is CFMOTO’s air-cooled 126cc single-cylinder four-stroke engine. While not fast by any stretch of the imagination, the engine puts out a claimed 9 hp and has plenty of get-up-and-go for around-town riding. A light clutch pull and smooth power delivery helps new riders feel comfortable in their first outings.

Power is routed through a six-speed transmission—the only one in its class—giving the Papio a significant edge over its competition. The big goal for CFMOTO is easy cruising at higher speeds.

Overall riding characteristics are light and zippy. If you can keep yourself from trying to do wheelies and stoppies every 30 seconds, all 9 hp and 6.1 lb.-ft. of torque can eventually get you moving to a top speed of 64 mph.

Chassis/Handling

With mini motos, manufacturers are tasked with balancing production costs with solid components and CFMOTO manages that task seemingly well, outfitting the Papio with a backbone frame that uses specifically engineered rigidity and keeps durability in mind.

Rear swingarm suspension and an IFP (Internal Floating Piston) monoshock with five-click preload adjustability provide good performance out back, while lightweight, 12-inch alloy wheels keep the Papio in line with its main competition. These wheel sizes promote quick, nimble handling around town.

Thanks to the short 48-inch wheelbase, low 251-pound curb weight, and adjustable suspension, the Papio performs relatively well for its class.

The Papio is close in spec to the Honda Grom and Kawasaki Z125 Pro. For example, the front brake disc is 210mm. That’s 10mm smaller than the Honda’s brake disc, but 10mm larger than the Kawaski’s.

The Papio is close in spec to the Honda Grom and Kawasaki Z125 Pro. For example, the front brake disc is 210mm. That’s 10mm smaller than the Honda’s brake disc, but 10mm larger than the Kawaski’s. (CFMOTO/)

Brakes

The Papio sports a solid brake setup for its size, with a J.Juan 210mm disc and two-piston caliper up front and a 190mm disc and single-piston caliper out back. That front brake disc is smaller than the Grom (220mm), but larger than the Z125 Pro (200mm).

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

There is currently no fuel economy data for the CFMOTO Papio.

Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility

The Papio’s low, 30.5-inch seat height and standard handlebars make for a comfortable, upright seating position. Fuel capacity is up just slightly over the Grom (1.9 gallons versus 1.6 gallons), but slightly less than the Z125 Pro, which has a 2-gallon tank.

The Papio has a very traditional look and feel from the cockpit. Lighting is all LED, and the LCD screen has a gear indicator. The fuel tank is 1.9 gallons.

The Papio has a very traditional look and feel from the cockpit. Lighting is all LED, and the LCD screen has a gear indicator. The fuel tank is 1.9 gallons. (CFMOTO/)

Electronics

No cost cutting here. The Papio has a full LED light setup and a bright LCD display for gauge readouts and indicator lights.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

The Papio receives CFMOTO’s shortest warranty in its new seven-bike lineup, one year.

Quality

Overall quality of the Papio is as impressive as CFMOTO’s other products, continuing to break down the negative stereotypes of Chinese motorcycles. The Papio features an excellent fit and finish, quality components, and rideability on par with any competitor in the mini streetbike class.

Styling is similar to the competition. Sharp lines are paired to bold colors.

Styling is similar to the competition. Sharp lines are paired to bold colors. (CFMOTO/)

2022 CFMOTO Papio Claimed Specs

MSRP: $2,999
Engine: 126cc, air-cooled single
Bore x Stroke: 57.0 x 49.4mm
Transmission/Final Drive: 6-speed/chain
Fuel System: EFI
Clutch: Wet
Frame: Tubular steel w/ aluminum alloy swingarm
Front Suspension: Telescopic; 4.3 in. travel
Rear Suspension: Monoshock, 5-click preload adjustability
Front Brake: 2-piston caliper, J.Juan 210mm disc
Rear Brake: 1-piston floating caliper, 190mm disc
Wheels, Front/Rear: Alloy; 12 x 2.75 in. / 12 x 3.5 in.
Tires, Front/Rear: 120/70-12 / 130/70-12
Rake/Trail: 28.0°/3.3 in.
Wheelbase: 48.0 in.
Ground Clearance: N/A
Seat Height: 30.5 in.
Fuel Capacity: 1.9 gal.
Claimed Wet Weight: 251 lb.
Contact: cfmotousa.com

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

News

2023 Honda CB300R ABS First Look Preview

Leave a comment

2023 Honda CB300R in Pearl Dusk Yellow.

2023 Honda CB300R in Pearl Dusk Yellow. (Honda/)

The Honda CB300R returns to the new motorcycle fray in 2023 with two colorways, Pearl Dusk Yellow and Matte Black Metallic. The bike will start at $5,049 and will be available in dealers starting this December. There are no major changes to the model for the coming year.

This entry-level machine replaced the CB300F in 2019 and since it’s come to market we’ve been impressed with the CB300R for a number of reasons. It’s a feather-light machine that handles easily, is supremely comfortable, and comes with eye-catching good looks. Although the 286cc single isn’t an exciting engine by any means, in the lightweight bike it actually stood out against competitors in the class. In fact, against the Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 and KTM 390 Duke, the Honda CB300R held its own in terms of pricing, looks, performance, and comfort.

Of course there is room to improve, and Honda has addressed at least one of the gripes we noted back when the model first arrived. We’d still like to see some improvements in braking feel and even a revamp of the engine. That would be notable news since it would mark a step forward not only for the CB300R, but also the CBR300R and the Rebel 300, since they all share the same engine.

As it stands, the CB300R remains a great option for fuel-conscious riders, new riders, and commuters. Its straightforward design is an asset in this type of market, allowing it to remain a price competitor and one of the lightest 300-level machines on the market.

2023 Honda CB300R in Matte Black Metallic.

2023 Honda CB300R in Matte Black Metallic. (Honda/)

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

MotoGP, Motorcycle News, News

Watch the FIM Awards Ceremony LIVE and FREE on Saturday!

Leave a comment

On the evening of Saturday 3rd December, the newly elected FIM President will join hundreds of guests from all corners of the motorcycle community to recognise and applaud the recently crowned FIM World Champions’ achievements – in many cases as individuals, but also as part of their national or sporting team in other cases too. Whatever their discipline, their incredible skill and bravery will be fully appreciated by all present as they take to the stage to collect their gold medals.

Source: MotoGP.com – Read Full Article Here

MotoGP, Motorcycle News, News

MotoGP™ recap: The Americas – dreaming big

Leave a comment

For Miller, his troubles weren’t over yet, with Alex Rins (Team Suzuki Ecstar) pipping him on the last lap to P2 and sealing consecutive podium finishes for the Suzuki rider. The Spaniard’s podium also marked a 500th top three result for the Hamamatsu factory in all classes during an event that also celebrated the 500th GP from the Racing Together era, when Dorna Sports, IRTA, MSMA and FIM first collaborated.

Source: MotoGP.com – Read Full Article Here

Bringing you the Best Motorcycle News from Around the Web!