Piaggio Group Opens New MotoPlex in Atlanta

November 2, 2022 mcnews Leave a comment

The Piaggio Group is expanding its footprint in the U.S. South with the opening a new MotoPlex in Atlanta. The retail outlet offers service for Aprilia, Moto Guzzi, Piaggio, and Vespa brands, as well as accessories, merchandising, and entertainment. The MotoPlex concept was launched worldwide in 2014 and hit the milestone of 500 outlets in 2019 with the opening of a MotoPlex in Istanbul, Turkey. For more information about MotoPlex Atlanta, read the press release below from Piaggio Group Americas.

The Piaggio MotoPlex retail environment continues to expand its flagship footprints across North America with the grand opening of MotoPlex Atlanta. The retail concept serves as a premium destination for two-wheeled enthusiasts with an all-Italian showcase of Piaggio Group brands: Aprilia, Moto Guzzi, Piaggio, and Vespa.

Related Story: 2023 Vespa GTS Scooters | First Look Review

Atlanta is a strategic hub for Piaggio Group’s latest addition, which is an expansion of Georgia’s footprint with the existing Piaggio dealer Southeast Motorcycle of Savannah, Georgia. Dealer Principal Adam Gati has been one of the best performing dealers in the U.S. After 15 years with Piaggio Group brands, Gati is expanding his business operations with MotoPlex Atlanta.

Marco d’Acunzo, president and CEO of Piaggio Group Americas, said in a press statement announcing the opening that Atlanta has been one of the fastest growing markets within North America for years, as well as a city that “thrives with a mix of new business and development.”

“With the addition of MotoPlex Atlanta we can offer this unique destination for two-wheeled enthusiasts in this important market,” d’Acunzo said, “while expanding our business relationship with one of our best dealership partners to their second location.”

Gati expressed excitement for the opportunity to better serve Georgia and the Atlanta market with the MotoPlex dealership.

“Our commitment to Piaggio Group goes back to 2007, and having an exclusive showroom like this within the metropolitan hub of Atlanta allows us to expand our business and further share our passion with the Aprilia, Moto Guzzi, Piaggio and Vespa brands.”

Together under one roof, the MotoPlex retail concept provides service, accessories, merchandising, and entertainment, to give customers a unique global vision of the two-wheeled world.

MotoPlex Atlanta is located at 6401 Spring St., in Douglasville, Georgia, and joins other select Piaggio Group franchises around the world, most recently in North America with Montreal, and alongside hundreds internationally in such markets as Shanghai, Milan, Mexico City, Berlin, Buenos Aires, Dubai, and others.

For more information about any of the brand websites of Aprilia, Moto Guzzi, Piaggio, or Vespa.

The post Piaggio Group Opens New MotoPlex in Atlanta first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

Motorcycle News, News

A Tale of Two Brothers and a Deal for a Harley-Davidson

November 1, 2022 mcnews Leave a comment

Exhaust note Harley-Davidson deal — The author and his brother (right) weren’t always this close. But time –and a Harley-Davidson –heals all wounds.

Thirty years after the fact, my older brother still likes to remind everyone that I managed to blow a full-ride scholarship my first semester at college even though I was supposedly “the brains of the family.” I think he enjoys telling the story because, at the time, he believed it was a flaw in my armor, a chip in the chrome plating. But even then, he must have thought I would do well for myself. Otherwise, he might not have made a deal that ultimately brought him to my doorstep with a Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail in the spring of 2018.

Along for the Ride, A Few Lengths Behind

In my office, I have a framed picture of my brother, age 5, and a chubby 2-year-old me. We’re wearing matching striped railroad overalls with thick leg cuffs, holding hands, and I have a big smile. I’ve always looked up to my brother. He was the epitome of cool – as soon as I knew what “cool” meant – even if he wanted nothing to do with his younger, dorky brother as we got older. If anything, that made him cooler.

Even in our teen years, when he was getting in trouble and I was getting straight A’s, I watched him admiringly from behind my textbooks, wishing I were as fearless and willing to take risks.

A few years later, I ended up following him to the local college. With my grades, I could’ve gone somewhere more prestigious, but in my senior year of high school I had started hanging out with my brother and his friends. I was welcomed into his fold. We were friends again, like we hadn’t been since childhood.

I followed him onto the ski slopes – down mogul hills and over cliffs I probably shouldn’t have. When he got into motorcycles, starting with a Yamaha V-Max, I followed him there too. My first bike was a Honda V65 Magna. It’s a miracle I didn’t kill myself, but maybe I just didn’t have it long enough. I only owned the bike a little over a year before I had to sell it.

Here’s where the details get fuzzy. But it was college after all.

In my recollection, around this time my brother offered me a deal: Whoever could get himself a Harley first would then get the other brother one when he could reasonably afford it. The benefit of this deal was each of us eventually having at least one bike, either bought ourselves or gifted to us. But if we were both successful, we would each ultimately have two bikes.

When he bought a Sportster 1200 – and started doing pretty well in the business world – I got excited, especially as I was still screwing around somewhat aimlessly (this was after blowing that scholarship). Certainly my bike wouldn’t be far off.

Then he got a Fat Boy, and I thought, “Wait a minute.”

Turns out, my brother remembered the deal differently.

Deal or No Deal

By his own admission (when I called to tell him about this article), my brother proceeded to customize probably five other Harleys.

Several years and motorcycles later, after a few beers, I asked him about it.

“That wasn’t the deal,” he said. “It was that we both get one for ourselves first and then one for the other brother.”

“What if one of the brothers never ended up being able to afford one for himself to begin with?” I said, still living paycheck to paycheck at the time.

We continued to debate the finer details of a deal made about 15 years earlier. At the end of the night, I didn’t think I convinced him I was right – that kind of victory over an older brother is rare. But in 2018, after selling his business in a lucrative deal, he called me and said, “So, do you want a Jeep or a Harley? But whatever you pick, I get to choose the style.”

Who was I to argue?

I chose the Harley, and a month later, he showed up towing a 2004 Heritage Softail Classic with just over 8,000 miles. Talk about feeling like a kid again. Or at least that carefree 20-something-year-old. It was a dream – and a deal – come true.

Sometimes I wonder if my brother made that original deal because he felt bad that I had to sell my motorcycle. He says he just thought I would hit it big before him and things would’ve gone the other way. Funny how life works.

Whatever his reasons, he came through. These days he doesn’t ride anymore. After selling his business, he moved to Hawaii and traded his jeans and riding jacket for a wetsuit and fins. But after all these years, he is still the epitome of cool.

This article first appeared as the Exhaust Note feature in the October 2022 issue of Rider.

The post A Tale of Two Brothers and a Deal for a Harley-Davidson first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

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Northeastern Backroads of New Jersey and Pennsylvania | Favorite Ride

November 1, 2022 mcnews Leave a comment

Northeastern backroads New Jersey Pennsylvania — The empty expanses of the rolling, twisty New Jersey County Route 650 beckons riders from the tri-state area and beyond. (Photos by the author)

Greenery, blue skies, and sunshine were bursting forth upon the land like an invitation from Mother Nature to fire up my machine and go forth on a ride on some of my favorite northeastern backroads. I accepted her call and began my cruise a few miles north of the New Jersey border in Pine Island, New York.

Scan QR code above or click here to view the route on REVER

Negative depictions of the state in film and television cause some people to think New Jersey is covered in urban sprawl, oil refineries, and clogged “highways jammed with broken heroes on a last chance power drive,” as Bruce Springsteen put it.

Although true for some parts of New Jersey close to the metropolises of New York City and Philadelphia, it’s called the Garden State for a reason. Northwestern New Jersey and northeastern Pennsylvania are blessed with farmland, forests, lakes, rivers, state parks, small towns, country churches, and most importantly, great roads to ride. Those blessings make this loop route a memorable favorite ride.

Check out more of Rider‘s Favorite Rides

With the sun warming my face and the sweet fragrance of greenery filling my lungs, I rumbled south on my Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic LT. I had sold my heavy Vulcan 1700 Voyager, and although I missed all its bells and whistles, I enjoyed the backroad nimbleness of the much lighter 900.

On Glenwood Road (County Road 26) just north of the New Jersey border, the Blue Arrow Farm has an impressive replica of a western Plains Indian village. In New Jersey, Glenwood Road splits, and I turned west onto the rolling, serpentine County Road 565 and stopped at the unique Farm at Glenwood Mountain. Encompassing 170 acres, it sells grass-fed, free-range beef from Scottish Highland cattle, free-range chicken, eggs, turkey, and pork, as well as local honey and organic fruits and vegetables. They also host private farm-to-table dinners and weddings.

Rolling southwest toward Sussex takes you along the border of Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge, which runs 9 miles along the Wallkill River (one of the few rivers in the U.S. that flows north) and protects 5,100 acres of land. Wildlife abounds in this area, including waterfowl, raptors, coyotes, deer, and bears. Throughout my years cruising through rural New Jersey, I have been lucky enough to spot several bears, as well as red foxes, a coyote, and numerous great blue herons.

After crossing over State Route 23, I passed The Village Smith and Cycle Works, a motorcycle repair and blacksmith shop where you can get new tires for your motorcycle and new shoes for your horse. Naturalist writer and gadfly Henry David Thoreau said to “simplify, simplify” your life. In rural New Jersey, we say “diversify, diversify” your life to succeed.

Continuing on 565 to rustic Plains Road, I connected with U.S. Route 206. Cruising north toward Kittatinny Mountain, I saw some interestingly named eateries, such as Jumboland Diner and Firehouse Bagels, which has a real firetruck as part of its decor.

Passing through part of Stokes State Forest, which encompasses more than 16,000 acres, I turned onto County Route 560, sailing toward the Dingmans Ferry Bridge, one of the few remaining privately owned bridges in the United States.

Opened in 1900, the bridge is 530 feet long and crosses the Delaware River into Pennsylvania. Riding high above the river on a motorcycle over its wooden planks is quite the experience. This rustic bridge lies within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, which spans 70,000 acres in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. A boat-launching area next to the crossing has views of the bridge.

Two impressive waterfall areas are nearby: Dingmans Falls and Childs Park. Both are worth a stop. Dingmans Falls is reached by a short, flat stroll on a boardwalk through the forest and alongside the stream. Childs Park is more challenging, with stairs going both up and down and a rugged walkway.

After a brief respite by the river, I fired up my machine and took State Route 739 to Silver Lake Road – a winding, rolling traverse through state forest land, lakes, and hidden gated communities. With areas of huge trees and forests lining the road, you get the feeling of motorcycling through primeval times. Route 402 north is much the same but is a faster-paced ride.

Blooming Grove Road (County Road 4004) and Well Road (CR 434), meander past country stores, rural homes, and forests. I felt like I was riding through a simpler era in America. At U.S. Route 6, a scenic byway that traverses the northern part of Pennsylvania, I roared toward Milford, a touristy town with several good restaurants.

After a late lunch at the Apple Valley Restaurant, I cruised across the modern Milford-Montague Toll Bridge with great views of the river back to Jersey. County Route 650 serpentines back through Stokes State Forest, which is a favorite of riders who love to challenge its rolling curves or just cruise along serenely. Traveling Routes 519 and 23 to Sussex, I headed northeast on State Route 284 to Bassetts Bridge Road, Lake Wallkill Road, and Glenwood Mountain Road.

As my Vulcan weaved through the countryside to Routes 565/517 and back to Pine Island, I reflected on what an enjoyable ride it had been. It was one I was destined to repeat.

The post Northeastern Backroads of New Jersey and Pennsylvania | Favorite Ride first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

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2023 Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Pro | Road Test Review

November 1, 2022 mcnews Leave a comment

The 2023 Triumph Tiger 1200 lineup, which includes five variants – three aimed at street riders and two at those who like to get dirty – represents the high-water mark of Triumph’s 30 years of experience building adventure bikes. When John Bloor, the deep-pocketed real estate developer who bought Triumph after it went bankrupt in 1983, resurrected the iconic British brand, he wanted to compete on the world stage. That meant a broad range of contemporary models, not just rehashed Bonnevilles.

Back to the Future

In the early ’90s, modern-era Triumphs that rolled out of the new factory in Hinckley, England, included Trophy sport-tourers, Daytona sportbikes, Trident roadsters, and Adventurer cruisers powered by inline three- and four-cylinder engines rather than the parallel-Twins Triumph had been known for. In 1993, Triumph introduced the Tiger 900, an adventure bike powered by an 84-hp 885cc inline-Triple designed to compete with the BMW R 100 GS, Honda Africa Twin, and Yamaha Super Ténéré.

The “Tiger” name first showed up on Triumphs in 1936 when company director and chief engineer Edward Turner renamed the 250cc, 350cc, and 500cc OHV Singles the Tiger 70, Tiger 80, and Tiger 90, respectively. Three years later, the Tiger T100 was introduced as a high-performance version of the 5T Speed Twin 500.

Other roadgoing Tigers came and went over the years, but it wasn’t until the early ’80s that the name was used on dual-sport models like the TR65T Tiger Trail and TR7T Tiger Trail.

By the turn of the millennium, the adventure segment had grown in popularity. Manufacturers were broadening their lineups of big “dualies” to make them even better at long-distance touring. In 2001, Triumph introduced the Tiger 955i, which had a 955cc Triple boasting 104 hp, a small fairing with a windscreen, a 6.25-gallon tank, and hardshell saddlebags.

Other models followed, including the Tiger 1050 sport-tourer in 2007, the middleweight Tiger 800 and Tiger 800XC in 2011 (co-winners of Rider’s Motorcycle of the Year), and the big daddy: the 571-lb 1,215cc Tiger Explorer in 2012.

Over the past decade, Triumph’s Tiger lineup has evolved and expanded, and the company now offers 11 different models: the Tiger Sport 660, the Tiger Sport 850, the Tiger 900 range (GT, GT Pro, Rally, and Rally Pro), and the Tiger 1200 range (GT, GT Pro, GT Explorer, Rally Pro, and Rally Explorer).

See all of Rider‘s Triumph coverage here.

Triumph Tiger 1200 2.0

Triumph gave its range-topping Tiger a major reboot for the 2023 model year, starting with the engine. Replacing the 1,215cc Triple on the previous-gen Tiger Explorer is the 1,160cc Triple from the 2022 Speed Triple 1200 RS. Despite losing 55cc of displacement, the Tiger gained grunt. On Jett Tuning’s dyno, the 2023 Tiger 1200 GT Pro sent 130.2 hp at 9,100 rpm and 81.8 lb-ft of torque at 7,000 rpm to the rear wheel through its shaft final drive – an increase of 12.4 hp and 7.4 lb-ft over the last Tiger Explorer we dyno’d in 2016.

Engine character is also decidedly different thanks to the Triple’s “T-Plane” crankshaft with a 1-3-2 firing order. After cylinder 1 fires, the crank turns 180 degrees, and cylinder 3 fires. It turns another 270 degrees, and cylinder 2 fires. It turns another 270 degrees, cylinder 1 fires again, and so on. The irregular firing sequence gives the engine the feel and tractable response of a Twin down low and the sporty character of a Triple from the midrange to redline.

Not only is the Tiger 1200 more powerful than its predecessor, it’s also significantly lighter. Its tubular steel main frame with forged aluminum lower sections saves 12 lb, and it’s connected to a lightweight bolt-on aluminum subframe with removeable passenger peg brackets. A new “Tri-Link” cast aluminum conventional swingarm saves another 3.3 lb over the previous single-sided unit. Overall, at 540 lb ready to ride, the Tiger 1200 is 55 lb lighter than the previous model.

Triumph hosted a global launch for the 2023 Tiger 1200 in Portugal earlier this year, and our First Ride review includes details about the five variants. Like other road-oriented GT models, the Pro model tested here has a 5.3-gallon tank, cast aluminum wheels in 19-/18-inch sizes with Metzeler Tourance tires, and 7.9 inches of suspension travel front and rear. It also has an adjustable rider’s seat (33.5/34.3 inches), handguards, a small skid plate, LED auxiliary lights, a centerstand, heated grips, a 12-volt socket in the cockpit, a USB charger under the seat, and keyless ignition, steering lock, and fuel filler lock.

As expected for a top-of-the-line adventure-touring machine, the GT Pro is equipped with throttle-by-wire, an IMU, and a full menu of electronic rider aids. It has five ride modes (Sport, Road, Rain, Off-Road, and a customizable Rider mode) that adjust throttle response, cornering ABS, cornering traction control, and suspension damping. The Showa semi-active suspension system has On-Road and Off-Road damping modes, with nine settings ranging from Sport to Comfort within each mode, as well as automatic rear preload adjustment. The GT Pro also has cornering lights, a quickshifter, cruise control, hill-hold brake control, and a 7-inch color TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity that includes multimedia, navigation, and GoPro control.

A Tiger – in Africa?

No, no, we didn’t test the Tiger 1200 GT Pro in Africa. We wish. That’s just one of my favorite lines from Monty Python’s Meaning of Life, a British comedy from 1983, which happens to be the same year the old “Meridien” Triumph went belly up. But I digress. Let’s start again…

A Tiger in California

There’s something about testing a motorcycle on familiar soil, on roads we’ve ridden so many times that we know exactly where a particularly nasty pavement crack is around a blind corner or where to expect rockfall from dynamited road cuts towering above the pavement. It’s not quite the same as turning dozens of laps on a track, but you know where you can get on the gas, where to proceed with caution, and where certain bikes seem to unlock a hidden “hero” mode.

One of those roads is East Camino Cielo (“Road of the Sky” in Spanish), which follows a high ridgeline in the Santa Ynez Mountains above Santa Barbara, California. Running roughly parallel to the Pacific Coast, on a clear day it provides incomparable views of the ocean and the Channel Islands on one side and the Santa Ynez Valley and San Rafael Mountains on the other. After climbing the steep, twisting grade of Gibraltar Road, East Camino Cielo unfurls an obstacle course of undulating gradients, convoluted corners, and pavement of varying quality with plenty of dirt and debris to keep riders on their toes. In other words, an ideal road for an adventure bike.

Having tested several variations of the Tiger Explorer in the past, some of which weighed more than 600 lb, the Tiger 1200’s newfound lightness is immediately apparent. It looks svelte when perched on its centerstand, and it feels slender between the knees, especially when standing up on the footpegs. The Tiger 1200 employs a new twin-radiator design that allows the engine to be mounted farther forward for better weight distribution while also reducing the amount of engine heat felt by the rider. Just ahead of the rider’s knees are vents with plastic shrouds that pull heat out and away from the cockpit.

The Tiger’s seat is narrow in front to make it easier to get feet on the ground and wide at the back to provide a broad base of support. Except for full-dress touring bikes, the Tiger’s seat is one of the most comfortable stock seats we’ve tested in a long time. Being long of arm and leg, the seating position is nearly ideal for me – not too much bend in my achy knees and a just-right reach to the wide handlebar that allows me to sit up straight.

Like most adventure bikes, wind protection is sufficient but leaves the rider’s lower legs and upper body partially exposed. Handguards keep wind off the mitts, and the adjustable windscreen does a decent job of deflecting wind blast around the rider. For maximum visibility and airflow into the cockpit, I preferred the lowest position and wasn’t bothered by buffeting, even with an ADV helmet with a peak visor. A light pull on the bar above the TFT display ratchets the windscreen up in small increments over a 2.4-inch range.

The Tiger 1200 exhibited poise and balance on East Camino Cielo, responding quickly to steering inputs and maintaining confident contact with the road. The Skyhook algorithm for the semi-active suspension minimizes unwanted chassis pitch under hard braking or acceleration, and the various damping modes delivered a softer or firmer ride as desired. When taking sharp corners at speed, however, the pegs dragged earlier than expected, especially for such a tall bike. Rear preload is adjusted automatically based on the weight of the rider and, if applicable, that of a passenger and luggage. I would have liked to crank up the rear preload a bit to increase cornering clearance, but there is no provision for doing so.

Attacking technical backroads and rowing through the gearbox is made easier with Triumph’s Shift Assist up/down quickshifter. And scrubbing off speed is handled by strong and precise brakes that are top of the line – a pair of Brembo Stylema monoblock radial front calipers pinching 320mm discs, a Magura HC-1 radial front master cylinder (a second one is used on the hydraulic slip/assist clutch), a Brembo rear caliper, and cornering ABS.

Equally impressive is the rumbling character and right-now response from the T-Plane Triple. As the dyno chart on the previous page shows, power builds linearly with no dips or hiccups, and more than 60 lb-ft of torque is available from 2,600 rpm to redline. The tuned exhaust emits a delightful growl, but as we noted in our First Ride review, engine vibration creeps in above 6,000 rpm and can be felt through the pegs and grips. At 70 mph in 6th gear, the engine spins smoothly at 4,000 rpm, which makes for relaxed highway riding. The only glitch is some driveline lash in the lower gears that makes it difficult to smoothly transition on and off the throttle.

The Tiger’s 7-inch TFT display has bright, vivid graphics. The mode button and small joystick on the left switchgear, along with the home button on the right switchgear, make it easy – with a little practice – to navigate modes, menus, and settings. There are a few idiosyncrasies, however. When the tripmeter is displayed, it is shown in a large, easy-to-read font, but it also shows average speed and trip duration – two pieces of info that I don’t find important.

And in the tripmeter mode, the digital tach/speedo is cocked to the side, which irks my desire for symmetry. The joystick must be toggled and pushed three times to bring up the fuel status display, and in that mode, the tach/speedo is displayed normally. Where’s the odometer? It’s buried in the service menu. While I certainly appreciate the desire to create a clean, uncluttered display, offering some customization options would satisfy riders with different preferences.

GEAR UP:

Modern Times

Years ago, the sportbike segment was the competitive equivalent of Fight Club. Model updates rolled out every two to three years, and because they duked it out on racetracks, differences in power, weight, and handling were parsed to the most minute degree. Nowadays, the adventure bike segment is the main event. The market is crowded, and bikes are specialized to fill specific niches. The Tiger 1200 alone is available in five different configurations to meet different price points and needs. But the sophistication of today’s open-class adventure bikes means that even the base GT model rings in at $19,100.

Next up the ladder at $21,400, the GT Pro we tested has most of the features that road-biased adventure riders want. For those who want to go all-in, the GT Explorer ($23,100) adds blind-spot radar, tire-pressure monitoring, engine-protection bars, and heated rider and passenger seats. Triumph also makes more than 50 dedicated accessories for the Tiger 1200 range, including luggage, lower seats, and much more.

The lighter, more powerful, and more advanced 2023 Tiger 1200 lineup shows how committed Triumph is to refining its motorcycles and making them as exciting, capable, and well-appointed as they can be.

2023 Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Pro Specs

Base Price: $21,400 (Snowdonia White)
Price as Tested: $21,600 (Lucerne Blue)
Warranty: 3 yrs., unltd. miles
Website: TriumphMotorcycles.com

ENGINE

Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, transverse inline-Triple, DOHC w/ 4 valves per cyl.
Displacement: 1,160cc
Bore x Stroke: 90.0 x 60.8mm
Compression Ratio: 13.2:1
Valve Insp. Interval: 20,000 miles
Fuel Delivery: Multipoint sequential EFI w/ throttle-by-wire
Lubrication System: Wet sump, 3.5 qt. cap.
Transmission: 6-speed, hydraulically actuated slip/assist wet clutch w/ quickshifter
Final Drive: Shaft

CHASSIS

Frame: Tubular steel mainframe w/ forged aluminum lower sections, bolt-on cast aluminum subframe, & Tri-Link cast aluminum swingarm
Wheelbase: 61.4 in.
Rake/Trail: 24.1 degrees/4.7 in.
Seat Height: 33.5/34.3 in.
Suspension, Front: 49mm inverted fork, electronic adj. w/ 7.9 in. travel
Rear: Single shock, electronic adj. w/ automatic preload adj. & 7.9 in. travel
Brakes, Front: Dual 320mm floating discs w/ 4-piston monoblock radial calipers & ABS
Rear: Single 282mm disc w/ 1-piston caliper & ABS
Wheels, Front: Cast aluminum, 3.00 x 19 in.
Rear: Cast aluminum, 4.25 x 18 in.
Tires, Front: Tubeless, 120/70-R19
Rear: Tubeless, 150/70-R18
Wet Weight: 540 lb
Load Capacity: 489 lb
GVWR: 1,029 lb

PERFORMANCE

Horsepower: 130.2 @ 9,100 rpm (rear-wheel dyno)
Torque: 81.8 lb-ft @ 7,000 rpm (rear-wheel dyno)
Fuel Capacity: 5.3 gals.
Fuel Consumption: 38 mpg
Estimated Range: 203 miles

For more information, visit the Triumph Motorcycles website.

The post 2023 Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Pro | Road Test Review first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

News

Mind the Velvet Rope, the KTM RC 8C Is Back

November 1, 2022 mcnews Leave a comment

One of the better scalpels for cutting lap times: all aboard the KTM RC 8C.

One of the better scalpels for cutting lap times: all aboard the KTM RC 8C. (KTM/)

There’s a race strategy at work with KTM’s newest trackbike weapon, the RC 8C. But it may take a few years before KTM reveals the rest of its cards. It’s similar to a Moto2-spec sportbike, yet not meant to homologate a World SBK contender. With a small production run and a frame made by Krämer, it’s purely meant for trackdays. But it’s worth idle speculation as to what further development (and developments) might bring in the future as far as race plans.

Until then, 200 lucky people now own (safe to assume it’s sold out at press times) one of the more impressive track motorcycles around. It’s little changed from the 2022 RC 8C, save for color, engine tinkering, and the fact that 200 were made, up from 100 in 2022. Power to the people, right?

Internal changes are the headline here. The familiar parallel-twin LC8c motor now puts out 135 hp, up from 128 hp. Larger 48mm throttle bodies complement an increased compression ratio (now 14.0:1) and modified combustion chambers. New titanium intake and exhaust valve feed a new two-ring piston design, which rides on new titanium con-rods. More bang is preserved by removing the cylinder head top balancer and adjusting the crankcase balancer shaft. A new Pankl oil cooler helps keep things cool and lubricated.

The WP Apex Pro fork and shock have been softened, to maintain healthy contact patches and for rider comfort. In that spirit, the RC 8C follows the KTM tradition of near-infinite amounts of adjustment, from the adjustable steering head to the offset of the CNC-machined triple clamps to the bars and footpegs.

Electronics do their part with the AiM MXS 1.2 Race dash giving access to data from throttle response, traction control, mapping and engine-braking. Shifting follows the reverse GP-shifting pattern, via quickshifter. Brembo Stylema calipers and RCS19 Corsa Corta master cylinders keep things stopped or slowed, as needed.

A brand-new titanium Akrapovič exhaust helps keep weight down to 313 pounds dry, which lies at the heart of the RC 8C’s appeal. Figures of 200-plus ponies grab headlines, but anyone who’s thrown a bike around a track knows that power-to-weight ratios are a better metric of thrill and/or danger.

The first 30 customers get to take delivery of their machine at Circuito Ricardo Tormo in Valencia, Spain, on April 26, 2023. Former Grand Prix riders and a full KTM and WP Suspension technical crew will be on hand to help new RC 8C owners break in their new bikes. MSRP is $39,599, if you can still find one.

In essence, this is a fantastic motorcycle you’ll never experience. KTM naming conventions mean the RC 8C (note the space between “RC” and “8″) has little to do with the legendary V-twin 1190 KTM RC8 from 2008–15. But the original RC8 cleaned up in AMA Superbike, and arguably led to the genesis of KTM’s Moto3 and MotoGP contenders. So it begs the question: What’s the RC 8C leading up to?

Stay tuned. It’s really all the rest of us can do.

Just 313 pounds of winged trackday fun: the 2023 KTM RC 8C.

Just 313 pounds of winged trackday fun: the 2023 KTM RC 8C. (KTM/)

Blacked-out livery belies the extra 7 hp that comes with the 2023 KTM RC 8C.

Blacked-out livery belies the extra 7 hp that comes with the 2023 KTM RC 8C. (KTM/)

Head on: what wind sees as the KTM RC 8C approaches.

Head on: what wind sees as the KTM RC 8C approaches. (KTM/)

Your left hand will tell you how you did: TFT AiM MXS 1.2 Race dash breaks down your trackday stats.

Your left hand will tell you how you did: TFT AiM MXS 1.2 Race dash breaks down your trackday stats. (KTM/)

This could be you, assuming you plunked down $39,599 about a week ago.

This could be you, assuming you plunked down $39,599 about a week ago. (KTM/)

Note to aspiring racers: Wheelies actually waste precious seconds of lap time.

Note to aspiring racers: Wheelies actually waste precious seconds of lap time. (KTM/)

New Akrapovič exhaust helps keep the KTM RC 8C light, so you can get lower.

New Akrapovič exhaust helps keep the KTM RC 8C light, so you can get lower. (KTM/)

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

MotoGP, Motorcycle News, News

WATCH the FIM MiniGP World Final LIVE from Valencia!

November 1, 2022 mcnews Leave a comment

The 2022 FIM MiniGP World Final is about to get underway in Valencia, with the top two riders from each Series set to compete for overall glory over two days of track action. 2021 Champion Izan Rodriguez also returns this season to enter the World Final, making an Entry List of 33 riders representing the following Series: Alpe Adria, Australia, Austria, France, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Netherlands, North America, Portugal, Qatar, Spain and the UK.

Source: MotoGP.com – Read Full Article Here

MotoGP, Motorcycle News, News

MotoGP™’s best title-winning final races of the season

November 1, 2022 mcnews Leave a comment

Ahead of #TheDecider, we’ve remembered four Valencia GPs that decided the MotoGP™ World Championship

To get warmed up for this weekend’s decisive Gran Premio Motul de la Comunitat Valenciana, we thought it would be a good idea to have a look back at some MotoGP™ races at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo that decided which hands the MotoGP™ title ended up in.

Nicky Hayden vs Valentino Rossi – 2006

A simply unforgettable climax to a sensational season. After being wiped out by teammate Dani Pedrosa at the Portuguese GP, Nicky Hayden trailed Valentino Rossi by eight points heading into the 2006 finale. However, a Turn 2 crash saw Rossi score just three points, meaning Hayden’s P3 was enough for the late, great American to win the title by five points.

Marc Marquez vs Jorge Lorenzo – 2013

Despite being black-flagged in the Australian GP and getting beat by Jorge Lorenzo in Japan, rookie Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) held a 13-point advantage over his compatriot in Valencia. That meant after finishing P3 behind teammate Dani Pedrosa, even with Lorenzo winning a third race in a row, the number 93 was crowned MotoGP™ King for the first time.

Jorge Lorenzo vs Valentino Rossi – 2015

A title race for the ages. Yamaha teammates Lorenzo and Rossi arrived in Valencia seven points apart, with the advantage in Rossi’s favour. However, after the drama that unfolded in Sepang, Rossi had a back of the grid penalty. The pace of Lorenzo, Pedrosa and Marquez proved too strong for anyone outside the top three to catch them in the race, meaning a win for Lorenzo would see him clinch his third premier class title – and that’s exactly what happened, despite Rossi’s sublime comeback ride to P4.

Marc Marquez vs Andrea Dovizioso – 2017

The last time we saw a MotoGP™ title race go to the final weekend of the season was in 2017, when Marquez and Andrea Dovizioso brought their fascinating duel to a close. Marquez led Dovizioso by 21 points, so Dovizioso – like Quartararo – had to win no matter what. Mapping 8, a miraculous Marquez save and a Dovizioso crash was all part of the unpredictable script that day, as Marquez emerged as MotoGP™ World Champion once more.

Fingers crossed we get a spell-binding end to the 2022 MotoGP™ season in Valencia.

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Source: MotoGP.com – Read Full Article Here

Motorcycle News, News

2023 Ducati Diavel V4 | First Look Review

October 31, 2022 mcnews Leave a comment

The Ducati Diavel has seen some dramatic evolutions since the power cruiser was introduced in 2011. The Diavel originally featured a 1198cc Testastretta L-twin that made a claimed 162 hp. In 2016, Ducati introduced the XDiavel, with more conventional cruiser styling and ergonomics and a new 1,262cc Testastretta L-twin offering more low-end torque, and in 2019, Ducati released the best-of-both-worlds Diavel 1260.

This year, Ducati is changing the Diavel game again with the introduction of the 2023 Ducati Diavel V4, featuring the 1,158cc V4 Granturismo engine making a claimed 168 hp and 93 lb-ft of torque.

Ducati says the V4 Granturismo is “the ideal engine for a muscle cruiser, capable of combining linear power at lower revs with vigorous torque throughout the rev range,” adding that the Diavel V4 should appear to a wide variety of riders, “from the sports enthusiast looking for a more comfortable and stylish bike to those looking to ride in an urban and relaxed setting to the lover of performance and drag racing iconography.”

From a visual standpoint, the Diavel V4 continues to offer the mix of conventional yet still muscular styling characteristic of the 2011 bike. Ducati says the bike was inspired by the look of muscle cars and superhero aesthetics and results in a style reminiscent of “an athlete ready to sprint off the starting blocks, with all the masses concentrated on the front and an agile, streamlined tail.”

2023 Ducati Diavel V4 Engine

The V4 Granturismo engine is a central element of the Diavel V4’s design. Ducati says this technical choice simultaneously improves performance, dynamics, and riding pleasure as a result of a counter-rotating crankshaft, which reduces the gyroscopic effect while increasing the bike’s agility. The light and compact V4 Granturismo derives from the Desmosedici Stradale of Panigale and Streetfighter V4.

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The V4 Granturismo is also characterized by low operating costs, with major maintenance at 37,000-mile intervals, and is efficient in fuel consumption and emissions due to the extended cylinder deactivation system. This feature allows the engine to operate as either a two-cylinder or four-cylinder by shutting off the rear bank not only when the vehicle is stationary but also while riding at low engine speeds under reduced engine load.

2023 Ducati Diavel V4 Chassis and Ergonomics

Compared with the Diavel 1260 S, the 2023 Diavel V4 has shaved 28.6 lb off the curb weight for a total dry weight of 491.6 lb.

The Diavel V4 has an inverted 50mm fork and a cantilever-pattern shock absorber, both fully adjustable. Travel has been increased by 0.6 inch over the outgoing model. The supersport-like braking system features 330mm discs and Brembo Stylema calipers.

The bike has a wide and low seat (31.1 inch), central footpegs, and a high handlebar set 0.78 inch closer than on the Diavel 1260, and passengers ride on a spacious seat, footrests that retract under the tail, and a telescoping rear grab bar. With the retractable aspects of footrests and the grab bar, the easily installed standard passenger seat allows the Diavel V4 to be transformed from a two-seater to a single-seater with minimal effort.

2023 Ducati Diavel V4 Electronics

The Diavel V4 comes with three power modes and four ride modes: Sport, Touring, Urban, and the new Wet mode, designed for low-traction surfaces. Riding aid systems include a 6-axis IMU, Ducati Traction Control in Cornering version, ABS Cornering, and Ducati Wheelie Control, as well as Cruise Control, Launch Control, and Ducati Quick Shift.

All the electronic systems are managed through backlit controls on the handlebar and the new 5-inch color TFT display, which also offers Bluetooth connectivity to pair your smartphone for calling, text messaging, and music. An optional turn-by-turn navigation system is also available.

Other options include semi-rigid cases with 48 liters of capacity, a passenger backrest, and a touring windscreen. Billet parts, carbon parts, dry clutch (for racing use only), forged wheels, and red or black brake calipers further expand the possibility of customizing the new Diavel V4. The 2023 Diavel V4 will be offered in classic Ducati Red or Thrilling Black and will be available in U.S. and Canadian dealerships beginning in Spring 2023.

Pricing will begin at an MSRP of $26,695 in Ducati Red color or $26,995 for Thrilling Black.

More information available at the Ducati website.

The post 2023 Ducati Diavel V4 | First Look Review first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

Motorcycle News, News

2022 Sonora Rally: Special Stage 5

October 31, 2022 mcnews Leave a comment

Enjoy coverage from the 2022 Sonora Rally from our friends at WestX1000.

Begin Press Release:

Riding the Wave

Racers Find their Rhythm on the Final Sonora Rally Stage

The wind was on today, skimming across the Altar’s sand sheets with unadulterated freedom, not an object in sight large enough to obstruct its path and slow it down. Khaki-colored granules pelted the skin like a thousand needles pricking in unison. But it kept the heat down, and so a gale was welcomed by everyone. Out of five strenuous days of competition, the final day is supposed to be the easiest (they say). But with a wide-ranging pool of talent, the Special ended with mixed reviews. If the dunes are a familiar place, the course felt comfortable, dare we say, enjoyable. But any anxiety someone could experience in the waves, humps or faces can exponentially grow into a taxing escapade if those emotions are put in check. Even so, if a pilot doesn’t know how to read the terrain properly, they would be ill-fated to an exhausting slog through the Sonoran desert.

Sharp ridges are drawn into “S” shapes against the horizon slithered away as racers cut blazing trails across their paths, disturbing the tranquil environment. This was no truer for anyone more than Skyler Howes #1. He flew over these massive ripples in the earth like the all-star he is, proving his worth to the Husqvarna Factory Racing team. A Waypoint waiting at the end of a CAP heading, Howes charged through the HP sections without notes, tracks or even a road to direct his trajectory. Just full speed over peaks and valleys, like the wind, unobstructed and free. He won this day without contest, fulfilling his personal goals of finishing First in every stage and securing the overall victory – fresh on the heels of his Triumph at the Rallye du Maroc.

“Obviously, Sonora [Rally] holds a special place [in my heart]. This was my first rally, kind of my start into the sport and why I was able to go to the Dakar for the first time. Now, we’re here as a factory racer, and I’m happy to have chalked up another win. This is my second win at Sonora, so I’m super happy for this, and I’m glad the team allowed me to be here and race this because it was incredibly good training. And just super fun to be here. I had a great time. I’m happy for my team and for my crew who came down to help out. This was really fun, not easy. It was obviously a tough five days, but we made it through clean so I’m super happy.” – Skyler Howes #1, Husqvarna Factory Racing

While he seemed invincible all week at the 2022 Sonora Rally, presented by Method Race Wheels, Howes wasn’t the only unstoppable athlete in the field from the front of the pack to the back. Success isn’t always determined by the accolades at the end but instead by the gravity of those burdens carried to the finish line on the shoulders of each racer. David Black #31 left the couch and began riding off-road just over a year ago. Inspired by his lifelong love of the Dakar Rally, he chose to turn his sedentary life around and pursue a (seemingly) impossible dream. The first day in the dunes, he dropped his bike “at least 25 times.” At the end of the stage, three blocks from the bivouac, he ran out of gas and had to push his motorbike to Timing & Scoring. And the final special was not any easier. Perhaps his off-bike moments may have reduced, but the obstacles were no less daunting, no less tiring. But if a man’s value should be measured by his heart, over ephemeral accomplishments, then Black left Sonora a champion.

The Rookies took the brunt of it, but they weren’t the only battle-worn soldiers in the field. Veteran to rally raid, passionate enthusiast and former volunteer of this event, Willem Avenant #25 had recovered from a broken leg earlier this year and was eager to jump back in the saddle. Already competing in two other races prior to his arrival in Hermosillo, under the Freedom Rally Racing umbrella. All things were going as planned for the South African (who had invited his friend and countryman Yugandhar Prasad Jasti #26 to join in the fun) this week, when at SS4, he endured some mechanical issues relating to his clutch. With the FRR coming through and managing to bring him to the Starting line for the finale, Avenant was hopeful for a clean break, and unfortunately, that’s exactly what he received. Suffering a crash which ultimately broke his collarbone. An abrupt end to an amazing run, it was a bittersweet goodbye to beloved friends, course and competition. But there wasn’t a grumble or a word of complaint from him at the ceremony. Instead, he was enjoying the little time he had left with a community he cared for and set his focus on the future.

Two days of true Dakar-style dunes in a row, with two fairly different scenes at Timing & Scoring. Back in El Golfo, people staggered and limped through the bivouac – bruised and beaten but content. However, in the closed street just outside of the Araiza Hotel in San Luis Rio Colorado, vehicles pulled into the avenue and settled under the Polaris arch to shake Race Director Darren Skilton’s hand, receive a Finisher medal and sip a specially brewed Sonora Rally cerveza. And while bruises were still present among the group, they were eclipsed by huge bright smiles. Organizers credit their ability to satisfy all the participants’ needs and wants to the many partners involved, like Method Race Wheels, Polaris, Yokohama, Motul and Aventura Travel. But they point to the grassroots racers and resident pros who’ve inadvertently built this competition from the ground up as the key to their recent venture into the World Rally Raid Championship (W2RC) – an FIA/FIM sanctioned series kicking off with the Dakar. At Awards, Skilton was adamant to assure his guests that they are the core of the event. That he had no intention of squeezing them out in favor of the inevitable elite crowd attending this new round in the W2RC on April 22^nd – 28^th, 2023. And that the Sonora Rally would continue to incubate the budding rally raid community in North America to the best of their ability. And it was those individuals who stood atop each podium Saturday afternoon.

Jordan Huibregtse #18 traveled all the way from Indiana to Sonora for another time hoping only to finish the competition. And what he takes away from his second navigation race (ever) with a First Place Trophy in the Malle Moto class. An undertaking already challenging under normal circumstances. But to win a race in the most difficult class that exists in the roadbook world was an exceptional end to his journey. With limited supplies available to him, no mechanics at his aid, no team to cheer him on, Huibregtse was charged with conquering a Goliath and came out a hero. Positions Two and Three received $500 and $750, but Malle Moto sponsor Motul gifted Jordan with $1,000, further incentive to continue his path to greatness.

“I raced last year, and unfortunately, I blew my engine up on the last day. I was 50km from the end of the last stage, and the engine just locked up, dropping a valve. So, I was determined to come back and get a finish, get a good clean run in. I can’t be happier. This is as much as I could have hoped for. I was in a good spot to conserve my bike, conserve my body, today. Rode a safe race and brought it home, so really, really happy with the results. Something I’ll remember most are the dunes and just pushing through it. I struggle in the dunes, so to me, the beautiful scenery combined with how much suffering that scenery can put you through. But digging deep within yourself, and really finding that strength you need to keep going, keep pushing.” – Jordan Huibregtse #18, Privateer in Motos

Another well-deserved award was given to American Rally Original rider, David Pearson #3, whose free entry to Dakar will likely be a bit of financial relief to the team as a whole. And it was just in time, as the five men – Pearson, Kyle McCoy #8, Mo Hart #9 and two who weren’t present, Jim Pearson and Paul Neff – prepare to leave for Saudi Arabia at the end of December. Their effort isn’t for themselves alone. It’s to represent the US as they attempt to break startling records taking every bike across the last finish in January among the Originals by Motul (Malle Moto) category. A feat not yet achieved by even one American, let alone a band of them. As the last opportunity to train before packing up and shipping off to the Middle East, the guys put their all into the Sonora Rally, and it seems to have paid off.

“Darren does a phenomenal job at these races. He really puts a good organization together and it was awesome this year. We did two big dune days in Stage Four and Five. It was demanding. I’ve been pushing hard all year to get onto the Dakar ticket, and if all goes well, I won the Road to Dakar today. So that’s coming off 16 days of racing between the Qatar** Rally, the Baja Rally and Sonora, so I’m very appreciative. We have a hell of a team, the American Rally Originals; We’re all going to the Dakar. We’re going to break a record being some of the first Americans to ever finish in the Originals by Motul (Malle moto) class in the Dakar in its 45-year run. Let’s go ARO. A huge thanks to KLIM for all my gear, and Giant Loop and Seat Concepts; everybody just put all the and support in so we’re just super excited. My wife has been awesome. ” – David Pearson #3, American Rally Originals

Hard work is a necessary component of a roadbook rally, yes. But to finish strong, especially at your first event, takes talent. Did we mention that Kevin DeJongh #21 rode in on a borrowed 16-year-old Honda CRF450X at the behest of his buddy Skyler? Because this is crucial information considering he nabbed Second Seed behind his “Husky” friend. Comrade of the pair, Brendan Crow #35 also displayed his skills on-track rounding out the podium in Motos. They shared a common goal: to finish. And when it was all said and done, the duo also shared a similar outcome. One which they are interested in repeating in the Spring, no doubt.

“This was my first navigation rally. It was fun; it was long. I’m pretty tired. Just learned that I have a bit of motion sickness in the dunes, which was not ideal the last two days. But other than that, it was a lot of fun – something new and cool to do, and I hope I can do more in the future.” – Kevin DeJongh #21, Privateer in Motos

This win was more of an underdog story. A privateer native to Sonora who is up against a woman at the top of her game – and her sport. Daniel Gonzalez #55 is a figurehead at the Sonora Rally, volunteering and aiding the event since its inception several years ago. He’s always been involved and donated his time generously to help the organizers succeed to the best of their ability. And October 17^th – 22^nd, he stood up to the plate to bat for an outfield hit and landed a home run. With his partner Jorge Hernandez, the Polaris Mexico crew colored the course red, green and white after a grueling fight for disqualified entrant, Polaris Factory RZR’s Sara Price #51, and a more steadfast one for side-by-side #55. They don’t just bring this win home, they keep the trophy on Sonoran soil.

“We had made our plan just the night before Special Stage Four to run at a medium pace, drive safe and go Waypoint to Waypoint without losing time and ended up winning. So, at the hotel, we scanned our Polaris Turbo R from A to Z to make sure no harm was done and have it ready for Stage Five. After doing a full Inspection the RZR, everything was still in excellent shape, and the only change we did was put the larger tires back on, air them down – even using the same Gates G-Force Redline belt – then wished for a clean day. We did not know if it would be two or three UTVs in the field that next day. If something were to go wrong, we could still easily lose the rally. We decided to make a solid plan to not risk more than needed knowing more dunes were on the way to the finish line. The plan was to take our time, keep a safe pace and keep our eyes open because, this race being in the backyard of my hometown, I’ve seen it all when it comes to Dune Riding. In a blink of an eye, accidents happen. All we had to do was complete the Stage. We arrived at the start line and noticed only two of the three UTVs ready to go. Ours and our great new friends from Pennsylvania, Brock Harper and Steve Geist #52, Sarah Price was not able to get her car running again after the incident the day before.

Jorge, my Navigator said: ‘Daniel, this stage is like the Sunday drives you take all the time. We’ve got this. Then, he started singing “We Are the Champions” by Queen, followed by some rousing Banda music. It was such an amazing experience for both, but in my case, winning this event in my country, my state and, most importantly, my hometown of San Luis Rio Colorado left me speechless. We had so much support, including my good friend Poncho with whom I had started the Geek Racing Team. And a very special guest, my son Dany. He has learned so much about these machines from watching and helping me work on the machines at GR UTV Powersports, plus he has a talent all his own, which makes me proud to watch. Huge thanks to Darren and the team for creating this event. And to Polaris Mexico for giving us this opportunity in the first place!” – Daniel Gonzalez #55, Polaris Mexico

What can you say about an event that’s provided adventure, sport and access to the world of rally to North American communities in a way no one else ever has? For just shy of a decade, the Sonora Rally has served up a platter of killer routes, rally towers, and a gateway to the Dakar, among many (many) other things. As a race approaching the event horizon, it’s important for the event to maintain its soul. To give back what it gets and remember where it started. That is what Darren’s has set his sights on. Much like the racers who attend this intimate, he’s steely-eyed and focused on a very specific outcome. One which honors its past but welcomes a different sort of future. Possibly more refined. Definitely with more international recognition and respect. Soon to have a larger presence of the global circuit in Mexico, with rally aristocracy shoulder-to-shoulder with the locals.

“We appreciate all of the volunteers, the racers and all of our sponsors who have brought us to this point, through a long tiring week. I’m just excited for the future of North American rally raid and just looking forward to having new competitors and an international field come and share the joy that is Sonora to do something unique and special. So, I just wanted to thank everybody, really and just enjoy that this year the rally was great. It was well organized, everything was done on time, the roadbooks were good, and I think the competitors really enjoyed it. We’re getting started on the next one already.” – Darren Skilton, Sonora Rally Race Director

Thank you to everyone who has supported this event by participating, volunteering or even just watching as the Sonora Rally traversed the Mexican state just south of Arizona. It couldn’t be possible without people’s continual friendship. To learn more, visit: https://sonorarally.com/ Or, follow the fun on Instagram @sonorarally & @aventura.eventos.

KEY NOTES

Ø El Golfo to San Luis Rio Colorado; Liaison > 25 km & Special > 123 km

Ø San Luis Rio Colorado is a border town adjacent to San Luis, Arizona and Baja California to the west. It’s the fourth largest community in the state, despite being quite young (awarded city status in 1958) in comparison to other Sonoran cities all with roots dating back to the 17^th and 18^th centuries. The city is one of the gateways to the impressive Gran Desierto de Altar. It was also once an important inland port for steamers traveling the Colorado from the Gulf of California. But since the early 1900s, the Colorado has been completely or nearly completely drained for irrigation. The once-formidable Colorado is usually dry or a small stream.

Ø In the morning the Altar dunes were a bit moist and cold, giving riders (and drivers) a solid surface to circumnavigate for a while. This helped the group shorten the gap between them on-course. While Skyler Howes #1 maintained a solid distance away from the other strongest riders, they managed to stay on his tail – relatively – throughout the day. While the motos all made a great show of the final roadbook route, Howes still managed to put almost two hours behind himself and friend Kevin DeJongh #21 who nabbed a remarkable Second Overall placement in his very first rally raid.

Ø This iteration of the Sonora Rally hosted teams from all over North America and the world. Dedicated racers and enthusiasts willing to travel hundreds to thousands of miles just to reach the starting line in Hermosillo. UTV #52, Brock Harper and Steve Geist, brought their team all the way from Pennsylvania, and they weren’t the only representation from the eastern side of the United States. John Henson #11 ventured from Georgia with a friend he convinced to fall in love with rally. Jordan Huibregtse #18 made a trip to his second year at the rally from Indiana. And much of the Freedom Rally Racing team home bases out of Kansas. But the borders are broader than that.

Of course, the Canadians made a big showing – as they usually did before the pandemic – this year: Matthew Glade #13, Jordan Reed #14, Grant Cousar #16, Rick Hatswell #23, Etienne Gelinas #29, David Beggs, #32 and Anthony Bonello #36. But it goes a bit further. Friends from all over the world have a presence at the competition. Olof Sundstrom #22 jumped the pond from Sweden. Plenty of Mexican locals like Patrick Reyes Morrison #7, Daniel Gonzalez and Jorge Hernandez #55 made their presence known. And to round it out, the furthest traveled racers came all the way from South Africa: Willem Avenant #25 and Yugandhar Prasad Jasti #26. If nothing else, this displays the sincere international recognition which Sonora Rally is given, and graciously accepts.

Ø The big announcement this week has marked a milestone for Sonora Rally and the North American off-road racing community as a whole. But many in the US and Canada, and even Mexico, don’t quite understand the significance of this achievement. The World Rally-Raid Championship (officially abbreviated as W2RC) was created by the Amaury Sport Organization (ASO) and co-sanctioned by the FIA (Federation Internationale de L’Autombile) and FIM (Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme) to offer a global rally raid series culminating in international titles for the four-wheeled and two-wheeled categories. As of 2022, this series replaced both the FIA World Cup for Cross-Country Rallies and FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship as the top echelon of the sport of rally raid. The ASO will serve as series promoter for a period of five years, and they recently (as we all know) inducted two new events to their calendar: the Andalucía Rally in Spain and, of course, the Sonora Rally in Mexico.

QUOTES:

Anthony Bonello #36, REV’IT!: “Today was awesome. It felt longer than any other stage, even though I was still having tons of fun. But I kissed my roadbook here after the backside of a dune. Just a big camel grass hump and it was fresh sand just two feet left of the track…I wasn’t going fast, but I just got eaten and spat out. Thankfully, I was ok. Just a fat lip. A Little check-up – motivation to just finish. Don’t be silly. And so, we’re here! I realize now, finishing is not easy, so I’m just happy to be here. Amazing event with such good people from the top guys like Skyler who are super humble to the guys that are here just finishing, like Yuga and David Black, those guys, just so much determination and heart. Really, really cool. Very happy. I’m probably only going to have one chance to win anything in a rally, so I’ll take the Enduro class gladly before they (apparently) put me into the next category. If I make Top Ten with everybody, I’ll be really proud. [He took 9th.]”

Ace Nilson #5, Privateer in Motos: “Today was a good day. I tried to just be smooth, not make any navigation errors, try to avoid crashing, which I only did a couple times, so it was good. Overall, a great route. There were a few penalties which I wish I could reverse, but that’s okay. That’s what rally is all about. We overcame a lot of obstacles to get here and to finish and given the attrition rate this year, we’re really happy to be here at the finish. One step closer to Dakar 2023, which is our ultimate goal. So, we’ll keep training, continuing to get in better shape. We ship out in December, so there’s a little bit more fundraising to do between now and then to be ready to go. We have T-shirts available to help raise money, just hit me up on Instagram or Facebook, and I’d be happy to send you one.”

Brendan Crow, #55 Privateer in Motos: “I’m honestly surprised I made it here, and then to even finish Third is even better. I’m just happy with that. I really enjoyed it this week, it was a lot of fun. Honestly, I’m a little speechless. I’m just happy that I made it here all in one piece. Had a good ride today, pretty smooth, just tried to take it easy, not doing anything stupid and throw it away (or anything like that). I didn’t have any navigation issues – fell over once quickly but nothing major. After my crash on Thursday, I’ve been on a lot of Tylenol and Advil trying to make it through the day, and it worked out. Luckily, the dunes (as hard as they are) were relatively smooth, versus rough, so it was easy. I could sit down a lot. Take a lot of the stress off my arms, which was really helpful. I’d love to come race Sonora again and I’d love to do more rallies, but it’s not cheap, so if I can find some support, we’ll see what we can do! But I’d love to do more. Sonora is close to California, so I definitely think I’ll come back here.”

Patrick Reyes Morrison #7: We made it to the end, thanks to Sebastian [Olarte #28]. Unfortunately, he didn’t finish, but graciously lent me half of his bike…We put my front forks, navigation tower and made it to the end, so I’m very, very grateful. [Sebastian: And I’m grateful to [Patrick] because thanks to him, a little piece of me made it to the finish. So he made it for both of us.]

TOP FIVE STAGE RESULTS

MOTO PRO

#1 Skyler Howes (USA), Husqvarna Factory Racing – 1:47:30
#21 Kevin DeJongh (USA), Privateer – 2:05:41
#35 Brendan Crow (CAN), Privateer – 2:13:32
#14 Jordan Reed (USA), Privateer – 2:19:20
#6 Nathan Rafferty (USA), Freedom Rally Racing – 2:23:09

MALLE MOTO

#8 Kyle McCoy (AUS), American Rally Originals – 2:20:40
#18 Jordan Huibregtse (USA), Privateer – 2:21:14
#3 David Pearson (USA), American Rally Originals – 2:31:54
#34 Brett Fox (USA), REV’IT! – 3:25:17
#22 2 Olof Sundstrom (SWE), Privateer – 6:39:06

MOTO ENDURO

#36 Anthony Bonello (CAN), REV’IT! – 2:25:54
#5 Morrison Hart (USA), American Rally Originals – 2:52:00
#17 Clayton Zimmerman (USA), Freedom Rally Racing – 2:53:10
#27 Patrick De Chastonay (USA), Privateer – 2:55:50
#11 John Henson (USA), Privateer – 3:00:53

UTV MODIFIED

#55 Daniel Gonzalez (MEX) and Jorge Hernandez (MEX), Privateer – 3:16:21
#52 Brock Harper (USA) and Steve Geist (USA), Privateer – 5:16:39

TOP FIVE GENERAL STANDINGS

MOTORCYCLE

#1 Skyler Howes (USA), Husqvarna Factory Racing – 13:36:30
#21 Kevin DeJongh (USA), Privateer – 15:17:33
#35 Brendan Crow (USA), Privateer – 15:57:03
#18 Jordan Huibregtse (USA), Privateer – 16:10:37
#8 Kyle McCoy (USA), American Rally Originals – 16:47:15

MALLE MOTO

#18 Jordan Huibregtse (USA), Privateer – 16:10:37
#8 Kyle McCoy (USA), American Rally Originals – 16:47:15
#3 David Pearson (USA), American Rally Originals – 17:33:24
#34 Brett Fox (USA), REV’IT! – 23:46:51
#12 Matthew Glade (CAN), Privateer – 25:02:01

MOTO ENDURO

#36 Anthony Bonello (CAN), REV’IT! – 17:34:29
#27 Patrick De Chastonay (USA), Privateer – 18:16:48
#17 Clayton Zimmerman (USA), Freedom Rally Racing – 19:41:32
#5 Morrison Hart (USA), American Rally Originals – 19:51:15
#11 John Henson (USA), Privateer – 20:08:11

UTV

#55 Daniel Gonzalez (MEX) and Jorge Hernandez (MEX), Privateer – 19:05:46
#52 Brock Harper (USA) and Steve Geist (USA), Privateer – 29:37:18

ROAD TO DAKAR

#3 David Pearson (USA), American Rally Originals
#5 Ace Nilson (USA), Privateer
#9 Morrison Hart (USA), American Rally Originals
#11 John Henson (USA), Privateer
#23 Rick Hatswell (CAN), Privateer

DISQUALIFICATIONS

MOTORCYCLE

#37 David E. Bihn (USA), Privateer, SS2 DNS
#29 Etienne Gelinas (CAN), Privateer, SS3 DNS
#28 Sebastian Olarte (COL), Diespro, SS3 DNF
#26 Yugandhar Prasad Jasti (ZAF), Freedom Rally Racing, SS4 DNF
#25 Willem Avenant (ZAF), Freedom Rally Racing, SS5 DNF

UTV MODIFIED

#51 Sara Price (USA) and Sean Berriman (USA), Polaris Factory RZR, SS4 DNF

CARS NAT4

#53 Luis Perocarpi (USA) and Clayton Williams (USA), Privateer, SS2 DNS
#54 Larry Trim (USA) and John Koeth (USA),Privateer, SS4 DNF

The post 2022 Sonora Rally: Special Stage 5 appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

MotoGP, Motorcycle News, News

The Decider: It all comes down to this

October 31, 2022 mcnews Leave a comment

Some, like Zarco, have already said they’ve made sure to keep risk under control. Some, like Martin, have said it’s not much to do with him, for which read, most probably, “I’ll make up my own mind”. Miller has already been a team and constructor hero, as well as a teammate pep talker to get Bagnaia feeling confident in the wet. Bastianini, meanwhile, remains staring at the camera with the hint of a smile and an eyebrow raised, leaving many wondering how the Italian will take on the decider.

Source: MotoGP.com – Read Full Article Here

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