Rookie Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) ensured all eyes were on him on Day 1 at the Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto as he put in a lap that almost put him on record pace. The 2023 WorldSSP Champion was more than a second clear of his nearest rivals after utilising the SCQ tyre to full advantage although Bulega was quick to point out that he was aiming for improvements on the second day of testing for the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship field.
STARTING 2024 IN THE RIGHT WAY: “we are starting to understand each other in a good way”
Bulega recorded a lap time of 1’39.193s to initially go fastest around three hours into the day, before improving on that by almost a second during the final hour. On both occasions, he used the SCQ tyre, with the best time, a 1’38.292s, just half-a-tenth away from the all-time lap record set in 2019. His nearest rival was Alex Lowes (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) who was 1.182s back on the #11, while teammate Alvaro Bautista finished in tenth place and 1.555s down on Bulega. However, the Italian did have a small technical issue towards the end of the day which he explained when his running concluded.
Explaining that problem and reflecting on a superb day for himself, Bulega said: “Not too many problems, we just had to put some more fuel in. I had a good feeling, almost like I wanted so this was important. I had fun with my bike and my team. We are starting to understand each other in a good direction. I think we are working in a good way, and I just need more laps on the bike. We were working on my position on the bike because this is completely different and bigger, so I need to adapt my body to the bike. We tried something different with the handlebar. Not incredible things, just to have a good base.”
LOOKING TO MAKE A STEP: “I have to work with used tyres”
However, despite his incredible pace using the SCQ tyre, Bulega outlined where he hoped he could find some improvements on the second day of testing to ensure he can fight at the front throughout races and not just be quick over one lap. While his one-lap pace has been superb for everyone to see so far, the 24-year-old explained that he wanted to find some more speed on used tyres on Thursday while continuing the work he and the team put in on Wednesday.
Expanding on his plan for the rest of the test, Bulega added: “Tomorrow will be about continuing the work we did today and trying to improve a bit more. Maybe we can improve with used tyres. I am fast especially with new tyres, but I have to work with used tyres. If I can be fast with used tyres, like I am with new, I can be competitive.”
Follow the 2024 campaign including testing in style using the WorldSBK VideoPass!
As Day 1 at the Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto provided the first look of Toprak Razgatlioglu at the ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team alongside his rivals, all eyes were on the 2021 Champion to see how he would fare on the M 1000 RR. He was quick out of the blocks to post representative lap times in the 1’39s bracket to top the times during the early running, before ending the day in third place on what was a positive day for BMW in testing for the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship.
TWO BMWS IN THE TOP FOUR: a strong start for the factory BMW outfit as they ‘show potential’
Razgatlioglu and teammate van der Mark finished in P3 and P4 respectively at the end of the first day’s running, completing more than 70 laps each, with the #54 pipping van der Mark by just 0.010s. Razgatlioglu started his day with the SC0 tyre and was immediately in the 1’39s bracket, while a run on the SCQ tyre didn’t provide the expected benefits. Despite not improving by much on the Superpole tyre, the Turkish star was left feeling happy after a first test session in the dry after a disrupted programme in December last year.
Expanding on the opening day at Jerez, Razgatlioglu said: “I’m very happy to have good weather, finally! In my first tests, it was a little bit late, and we didn’t have a fully dry session. Now we have a fully dry track and, we showed our potential. This morning, in the first five laps, I did a 1’39.8s with the SC0 tyre. This is very good. I immediately saw 1’39s and thought it was good because people said BMW’s not ready to be a Championship bike, but if the bike didn’t have potential, we wouldn’t have done a 1’39s. It looks like the bike has potential. We need time and to improve the bike because I’m still learning it. I’m riding the bike for a full day; I’m learning a lot and so are the team. My style is probably a bit different, so my team are learning my style. In general, I’m happy. It’s been a positive test. Bulega did a good lap time with the SCQ tyre, but I don’t understand why the other riders didn’t do this. Maybe it’s the same problem with grip.”
TIME TO FIND: “I hope we improve the bike and try the SCQ again to make a good lap time…”
The one-time Champion spent four seasons with Yamaha before switching to BMW for the 2024 season and, with more kilometres on the M 1000 RR secured, explained how the bike differs from the YZF-R1 he raced from 2020 to 2023. He also expressed his hope to gain more time on the SCQ tyre in Thursday’s running after not being able to find a huge amount of time on Wednesday, while also explaining that there’s a lot of new parts for him to test on Day 2.
Razgatlioglu added: “After riding for a different brand, the bike feels completely different. The electronics are different. I’ve almost adapted; not 100% but almost. Today, we tried some new parts and tomorrow there are many new parts. I hope we improve the bike; this is all I’m focused on. On the last run, I tried the SCQ tyre just to understand it because I’ve not tried it with this bike. I need to understand the balance because, always when you put the Q tyre on, the bike is always changing. The bike completely changed today. I was just one tenth faster than with the race tyre. Tomorrow, we also have the SCQ tyre. I hope we improve the bike and try it again to make a good lap time.”
Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) might be a rookie but eyes will already be turning to him after yet another impressive testing performance in the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship. As the majority of the paddock headed to the south of Spain and the Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto, it was the reigning WorldSSP Champion who stole the headlines. He lapped more than a second clear and was close to the outright lap record after utilising the SCQ tyre to full effect in the final hour of the day, while teammate Alvaro Bautista was down in tenth.
MIXED FEELINGS: Bulega storms to top spot as Bautista scrapes into the top ten
Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) stormed to the top of the times on day one as he posted a 1’38.292s using Pirelli’s SCQ tyre, with his fastest time coming in the final hour of the day, shortly before he had a small technical issue. Bulega, who completed 71 laps, finished 1.5s clear of teammate Alvaro Bautista down in tenth, with the reigning Champion on track for the first time following the injuries he sustained in testing here in November. The #1 was also looking at how best to minimise the impact of the ballast he’ll need to use with the new weight rules that come into effect for 2024. In terms of Independent Ducatis, Andrea Iannone (Team GoEleven) was seventh with 67 laps to his name as he continued understanding the Panigale V4 R, while Danilo Petrucci (BARNI Spark Racing Team) was ninth with a 1’39.773s. The #9 was trying a lower seat to help improve the centre of gravity and find performance benefits from this with Petrucci completing 66 laps. The final Independent Ducati rider was Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) in 15th place as he continues his adjustment from Moto2™ to WorldSBK. His best was a 1’40.133s as he completed 82 laps.
ALEX LOWES LEADS KRT CHARGE: second despite only recording a handful of laps
Despite feeling unwell and only completing 31 laps, Alex Lowes (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) was able to take second place. His 1’39.474s was enough to finish as the lead Kawasaki rider as he tried new components, and will at Portimao next week, including front and rear suspension items, electronics, seat positions and fuel tank. Teammate Axel Bassani finished in 14th place after setting a 1’40.059s as he continued adjusting to the ZX-10RR and its inline-4 engine configuration, with the #47 completing 77 laps. The sole Independent Kawasaki rider, Tito Rabat (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) was three places and five tenths behind Bassani, with the Spaniard using a factory bike leased from KRT in the hope that more data will help take forward steps more quickly.
A STRONG DAY FOR BMW: Razgatlioglu and van der Mark both make the top four…
It was a busy but impressive day for BMW with 10 bikes and six riders to get data from, with the test team in attendance alongside the ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team and Bonovo Action BMW squad. Toprak Razgatlioglu claimed third with a 1’39.521s, lapping quicker today than he did in either Race 1 or Race 2 with Yamaha during the round here in October, as he went in search of a good setup on his M 1000 RR, while also looking for improvements with the electronic setup. Teammate Michael van der Mark was fourth, only 0.010s down on the #54. For the test team, Bradley Smith and Sylvain Guintoli rounded out the field but added a combined 111 laps to the German manufacturer’s total for the day. Both Razgatlioglu and van der Mark completed more than 70 laps as they finished in the top four.
Next door at the Bonovo Action BMW squad, Garrett Gerloff took eighth as he tested new parts while also hoping to look at Razgatlioglu’s strategy under braking and for the engine brake. The American completed 73 laps and posted a best time of 1’39.763s for P8, while teammate Scott Redding was in 13th. The Brit, who also had new parts, set a best time of 1’40.042s and completed 56 laps.
GARDNER ON TOP AT YAMAHA AGAIN: evenly matched with Rea on day one
Yamaha enjoyed a solid day on day one with two riders inside the top ten. Remy Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) was the lead Yamaha rider in fifth place after the Australian set a 1’39.679s and completed 83 laps, making him one of the busiest riders on track. He was just 0.003s clear of six-time Champion Jonathan Rea (Pata Yamaha Prometeon) in sixth, with the Northern Irishman completing 72 laps on his way to a best time of 1’39.682s. Rea’s teammate, Andrea Locatelli, narrowly missed out on a spot in the top ten as he worked with new crew chief Tom O’Kane for the first time, and adding 72 laps to Yamaha’s total as he set a 1’39.917s. Philipp Oettl (GMT94 Yamaha) was 12th on his first outing on the Yamaha YZF-R1 following his switch from Team GoEleven, just a tenth behind Locatelli. Elsewhere at Yamaha, GRT Yamaha’s Dominique Aegerter didn’t complete any laps on day one. A suspected viral infection ruled him out of action, and he will be re-assessed tomorrow.
LOTS TO BUILD ON: both Honda riders outside the top ten…
Honda featured just two riders at the test, with Team HRC’s Iker Lecuona and Xavi Vierge flying the flag for the Japanese manufacturer. Lecuona completed 52 laps on his way to 16th place as he set a 1’40.379s while Vierge was two places and almost four tenths back from his teammate. The pair were continuing to adjust to the new CBR1000RR-R machine as they look to refine it.
FOUR MANUFACTURERS IN THE TOP FOUR: nothing to keep the lead WorldSSP riders apart…
In WorldSSP, several riders were testing at Jerez alongside the WorldSBK stars. The World Supersport field was led by Marcel Schroetter (MV Agusta Reparto Corse) as the German posted a 1’42.015s to claim P1 ahead of Stefano Manzi (Ten Kate Racing Yamaha) with just a tenth separating the two. Can Oncu (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) was third as he took to the track on his ZX-6R featuring upgrades, while the Turk was also building up fitness following surgery on his arm over the winter. He was only 0.015s behind Manzi, while Adrian Huertas (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) completed the top four.
The top ten from day one:
1 Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’38.292s, 71 laps
2. Alex Lowes (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) 1’39.474s, 31 laps
3. Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) 1’39.521s, 74 laps
4. Michael van der Mark (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) 1’39.531s, 72 laps
2024 Harley-Davison CVO Road Glide ST in Golden White Pearl
Under the banner “Dawn of a New Era,” the Motor Company made a global announcement today about new models added to the 2024 Harley-Davidson lineup. This year marks the 25th anniversary of H-D’s Custom Vehicle Operations division, and in addition to the CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide announced last June, the Motor Company will offer a CVO Road Glide ST and a CVO Pan America adventure bike. Harley-Davidson’s popular Street Glide and Road Glide baggers have also been updated.
Street Glide and Road Glide | 2024 Harley-Davidson
2024 Harley-Davison Road Glide
Two of Harley-Davidson’s best-selling bagger models – the Street Glide and the Road Glide – now feature more streamlined bodywork first seen on their CVO counterparts. Both are powered by a Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-Twins with a revised cooling system, and new for 2024 are selectable ride modes: Road, Sport, Rain, and Custom.
2024 Harley-Davison Street Glide
Convenience and comfort have also been improved with an upgraded infotainment available through a new 12.3-inch TFT color display, additional rear suspension travel, and a revised seat.
2024 Harley-Davison Street Glide
2024 Harley-Davison Road Glide
CVO Road Glide ST | 2024 Harley-Davidson
Harley-Davidson says the new CVO Road Glide ST is the company’s “quickest, fastest, and most sophisticated performance bagger.” The West Coast-style bagger is powered by the Milwaukee-Eight 121 High Output V-Twin, an engine exclusive to this model that churns out 127 hp and 145 lb-ft of asphalt-buckling torque. Selectable ride modes include Road, Sport, Track, Track Plus, Rain, and multiple Custom modes.
2024 Harley-Davison CVO Road Glide ST in Raven Metallic
Lightweight materials, including mufflers with titanium shells, an oil pan made of composite, and forged carbon fiber used in the muffler end caps, front fender, seat cowl, and tank console, along with revised wheels and wave-style front brake rotors, help keep dry weight to 800 lb, 25 lb less than the CVO Road Glide.
The CVO Road Glide ST is equipped with fully adjustable Showa suspension, with an inverted 47mm 1×1 fork and dual rear shocks with remote reservoirs, and Brembo braking components.
A full suite of infotainment is powered by Skyline OS, and a large color touchscreen replaces all analog instrumentation and most switches. Premium audio includes a 500-watt amplifier and Rockford Fosgate Stage II 6.5-inch fairing speakers.
The CVO Road Glide ST will be available in two paint schemes: Golden White Pearl or Raven Metallic. In addition to CVO 25th Anniversary graphics, a Screamin’ Eagle graphic on the fairing sides and fuel tank is inspired by the Screamin’ Eagle Harley-Davidson Factory motorcycles raced in the MotoAmerica King Of The Baggers series.
CVO Pan America | 2024 Harley-Davidson
2024 Harley-Davison CVO Pan America
Harley-Davidson’s Pan America has been one of the best-selling adventure bikes in the U.S. since its debut in 2021. The new CVO Pan America retains all the features of the Pan America 1250 Special, including the Revolution Max 1250 engine with multiple ride modes, semi-active suspension, and more.
The CVO Pan America model is outfitted with adventure-ready accessories including Adaptive Ride Height suspension, aluminum top and side cases, a Screamin’ Eagle quickshifter, tubeless laced wheels, auxiliary LED forward lighting, and an aluminum skid plate. It also comes in a unique black, red, and white paint scheme with a Harley-Davidson “1” logo on the tank.
It was unveiled back at EICMA in 2023, and got track action not long after, and now the revised Fireblade is back on track at the Jerez test
One big story in the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship heading into 2024 was Honda bringing a heavily revised CBR1000RR-R for riders Iker Lecuona and Xavi Vierge. Both got their first taste of the new bike as the 2023 calendar year drew to a close and now the bike is back out on track at the Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto as the Japanese manufacturer looks to close the gap to the front. Check out stunning pictures of Honda’s new challenge in the gallery at the top of this article.
Follow live updates from Jerez HERE and keep an eye on the 2024 campaign in style using the WorldSBK VideoPass!
The MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship paddock, barring a few exceptions, has headed to the Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto for two days of crucial testing with the 2024 season getting underway in just under a month. Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) tests for the first time alongside his rivals, with Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) and Jonathan Rea (Pata Yamaha Prometeon) also on track. It’s a chance to see how the #54 fares against rivals, while it’s also a chance to see how the rest of the grid stacks up before the Australian Round. For a full preview of the test, click HERE and you can follow it on live timing here.
10:36 – Razgatlioglu’s left the box on the M 1000 RR, as has teammate van der Mark. A lot of eyes will be on the factory BMW garage…
10:30 – WorldSBK riders join the action, with Philipp Oettl the first on track as he tests the Yamaha R1 with GMT94 Yamaha for the first time
10:25 – while the WorldSBK field joins the test at 10:30am Local Time (GMT+1), a few WorldSSP riders have hit the track with Federico Caricasulo – riding an MV Agusta in 2024 – leading the early stages
Splits with ER Motorsport organisation after title-winning campaign.
Image: Foremost Media.
Honda has sensationally withdrawn from the Australian Superbike Championship after splitting with the ER Motorsport team that operated Penrite Honda, just months after clinching the 2023 crown with Troy Herfoss.
It was no secret at The Bend’s final round of last season that ER was yet to commit beyond that round following Herfoss’ decision to exit the team and Honda has now formally confirmed it’s quitting the series in terms of factory involvement.
“While the decision to step back from the Australian Superbike Championship in a factory capacity this year is a challenging one, it is essential for us to redirect our resources and energy towards initiatives that align more closely with the evolving needs of our customers,” explained Tony Hinton, general manager of powersports and products at Honda Australia.
“We are very grateful for the success we have shared with ER Motorsport over the last six years, they have represented the Honda brand with passion, seamlessly run the team with professionalism and have secured results we are very proud of. We couldn’t have asked for a better way to finish the partnership than as the reigning champions.”
The announcement went on to state that ‘importantly, Honda Australia wants to assure its fans and partners that this withdrawal does not signal a diminished commitment to motorsports. Honda will be actively supporting select privateer efforts during the 2024 ASBK season, affirming its dedication to nurturing talent and maintaining a positive presence in the racing community’.
Herfoss won two ASBK championships as part of the Penrite Honda team, firstly in 2018 upon debut with the team, before finally repeating again in 2023. He also won the title with Honda in 2016 when Paul Free managed the factory program.
It’s unclear if ER Motorsport – owned by former national level racer Deon Coote – will be involved in the sport next year, while the future of Herfoss also remains up in the air. He has constantly been linked to a deal in the US-based MotoAmerica series during recent weeks.
Clutch – STM dry multi-plate slipper clutch with hydraulic control
Front Brakes – Monobloc finned aluminium Brembo calipers entirely machined from solid, with a radial attachment of 4 pistons in titanium. Dual Brembo steel brake discs.
Rear Brakes – Brembo aluminium caliper with axial attachment of 2 pistons. Brembo steel brake disc
Front Tyre – Pirelli slick 125/70-R17
Rear Tyre – Pirelli slick 200/65-R17
Length – 2070mm
Wheelbase – 1450 mm
Width – 670mm
Fuel Capacity – 21 litres
Weight – 168 kg with water and oil*
*Max revs and minimum bike weight managed by FIM regulation
Stefano Cecconi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati Team Principal)
“The 2024 season will certainly be interesting. We will face important challenges due to the new regulations and the new scenario of our competitors, and this will be an additional stimulus for us. I have no doubt, though, that the team will keep working with the same determination to try and achieve great results again. We will rely on the best line-up a team can field: two reigning world champions. On the one hand, Alvaro, who certainly needs no introduction, and on the other Nicolò, who has repaid immediately the trust we gave him. We’ll also have the extraordinary support of Ducati on our side and that’s why we start this season with all the credentials to be protagonists again“.
Luigi Dall’Igna (General Manager Ducati Corse)
“Last year, we celebrated Alvaro Bautista and the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team, who successfully brought back the World Superbike Riders’ World Title to Borgo Panigale, completing an extraordinary Triple Crown by also securing the Manufacturers’ and Teams’ World Titles. It would have been difficult to imagine a better performance, but the 2023 WorldSBK season surpassed our expectations, writing a new chapter in Ducati’s history. Alvaro Bautista retained his Superbike World Champion title, and Nicolò Bulega, aboard the Panigale V2, became Supersport World Champion, marking a historic first Riders’ World Title for Ducati in this category. Adding to the significance of these victories are the Manufacturers’ Titles in both categories, accomplishments that fill us with pride. As we approach the new Superbike season, we do so with the best possible lineup, featuring two World Champions riding the Ducati Panigale V4 R machines. For sure, the 2024 season is full of challenges; the competition is increasingly fierce, and there are new hurdles to overcome. However, these challenges motivate and push us to do better. We are eager to see Alvaro and Nicolò hit the track in their new colours this year, starting with the upcoming tests at Jerez and Portimão in the next few days”.
Alvaro Bautista
Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #1)
“It is a big satisfaction to be back in a beautiful place like Madonna di Campiglio to present the bikes with which we will face a 2024 championship that will be extremely challenging, with so many changes both in terms of technical regulations and in terms of competitors. We will immediately have to work hard to adapt to the new rules, but I believe that in any case, it will be a very enjoyable season. The goal is to reach our maximum potential as soon as possible so that we can then have fun in every round. There will also be changes in the garage with a new team-mate: Nicolò is young, strong, and has already proven to be fast. I would also like to welcome the new sponsors who will accompany me aboard a really beautiful bike. The hope is that we can all do a great job together and for that, I want to wish the guys in my team the best of luck”.
Nicolò Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #11)
“I am very happy to have had the privilege of taking part in this ceremony. I remember very well when as a child I used to follow the Ducati team presentation in Madonna di Campiglio: being now among the protagonists of this event fills me with pride. I thank the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team for believing in me and giving me the chance to ride this Panigale V4R that I find beautiful. Let me make a joke: usually, when a bike is beautiful it must also go fast. That’s why we have high expectations for this season. I’m sure we can do well. The package we have is excellent, I’m very excited and I’ll try to give my best right from the start”.
Nicolo Bulega and Alvaro Bautista
2024 Aruba.it Racing – Ducati Team
Stefano Cecconi – Team Principal
Daniele Casolari – Team Owner
Serafino Foti – Team Manager
Marco Zambenedetti – Technical Coordinator Ducati Corse
The 2024 WorldSBK season itself will get underway with official tests for all on the 19th and 20th of February at the first venue of the year, Phillip Island. Before then, many teams will have two more European test sessions in January, at Jerez and Portimao, to make their final preparations before the bikes and equipment are flown out to Australia.
The Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit will raise the curtain once again for the new WorldSBK and WorldSSP season with the Australian Round on the weekend of February 25.
Tickets for the 2024 season opener are on sale now, check out your options at www.worldsbk.com.au
2024 WorldSBK Dates
Date
Circuit
WSBK
WSSP600
WSP300
WWSBK
23-25 Feb
Phillip Island
X
X
22-24 Mar
Catalunya
X
X
X
19-21 Apr
Assen
X
X
X
14-16 Jun
Misano
X
X
X
X
12-14 Jul
Donington
X
X
X
19-21 Jul
Most
X
X
X
9-11 Aug
Algarve
X
X
X
X
23-25 Aug
Balaton Park
X
X
X
6-8 Sep
Magny-Cours
X
X
X
20-22 Sep
Cremona
X
X
X
27-29 Sep
Aragón
X
X
X
18-20 Oct
Jerez
X
X
X
X
Ducati World SBK Statistics (1988 – 2023)
Wins 420
Pole Position 189
Fastest laps 425
Titles (manufacturers) 19
Titles (riders) 16
Riders on podium 725
No. of podiums 1067
Ducati WorldSBK Race Winners
Alvaro Bautista 59
Carl Fogarty 55
Troy Bayliss 52
Chaz Davies 26
Doug Polen 26
Raymond Roche 23
Carlos Checa 22
Troy Corser 16
Noriyuki Haga 16
Neil Hodgson 16
Pierfrancesco Chili 13
Giancarlo Falappa 13
Scott Redding 12
Rubén Xaus 11
Régis Laconi 10
Ben Bostrom 7
John Kocinski 5
James Toseland 5
Michael Ruben Rinaldi 5
Michel Fabrizio 4
Sylvain Guintoli 3
Lorenzo Lanzi 3
Marco Melandri 3
2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500 KRT Edition in Lime Green / Ebony
Kawasaki updates its 2024 lineup with a new Ninja 500 sportbike and Z500 naked bike using the 451cc parallel-Twin found in the sport-cruiser Kawasaki Eliminator. It has also updated the Kawasaki KLX230 S dual-sport and KLX230SM supermoto.
2024 Kawasaki Z500 ABS in Candy Lime Green / Metallic Flat Spark Black / Metallic Graphite Gray
Kawasaki adds to its Ninja family of motorcycles with the 2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500 and the Z500 naked version. These two new motorcycles come in standard as well as SE versions with special features, and they both include a 451cc parallel-Twin, new styling, a new LCD instrument panel, and a new seat shape.
Engine | 2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500 and Z500
2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500 SE ABS in Passion Red / Metallic Flat Spark Black / Metallic Matte Dark Gray
The Ninja 500 and Z500 are powered by the liquid-cooled 451cc parallel-Twin found in the Kawasaki Eliminator sport-cruiser introduced last year. Adapted from the same engine found in the Ninja 400, this engine adds 52cc of displacement for better acceleration and performance at high rpm due to a lengthened stroke of 6.8mm. Also new to the 500s are a new crankshaft, connecting rods, and pistons suitable for the larger displacement. Additionally, the top ring land of the aluminum pistons now features a hard alumite treatment suitable for higher pressure.
The 451cc parallel-Twin powering the Ninja 500 and Z500 is adopted from the Kawasaki Eliminator sport-cruiser.
Chassis | 2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500 and Z500
The Ninja 500 and Z500 feature a trellis frame with the engine as a stressed member and with a supersport-style short-wheelbase/long-swingarm configuration. The wheelbase is 54.1 inches, and seat heigh is 30.9 inches. The Ninja 500 weighs 377 lb, while the Z500 with less bodywork comes in at 368 lb. Fuel capacity is 3.7 gallons.
2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500 in Metallic Spark Black / Metallic Flat Raw Graystone
Both bikes feature a nonadjustable 41mm telescopic front fork. In the rear is a bottom-link Uni-Trak suspension unit with five-step preload adjustability using an included tool kit. Braking power comes in the form of a single 310mm front disc gripped by a 2-piston caliper and a single 220mm rear disc with a 2-piston caliper. The star-pattern 5-spoke wheels help keep weight low.
2024 Kawasaki Z500 SE ABS in Candy Persimmon Red/Metallic Flat Spark Black / Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray
The Ninja 500 features an elevated position of its clip-on handlebars along with a slightly foot-forward footpeg placement for a relaxed rider triangle. The handlebar on the Z500 is taller and wider for a more upright riding position. Kawasaki claims the ergonomics on both bikes is intended to provide a balance between comfort and a sporty attitude to satisfy a wide range of rider needs.
Technology | 2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500 and Z500
Also new for the 500s is a high-contrast LCD instrument panel that displays odometer, gear position indicator, fuel gauge, dual trip meters, remaining range, current and average fuel consumption, coolant temperature, clock, connected device notification, service indicator, and the economical riding indicator. This last feature appears on the LCD screen to signal favorable fuel consumption conditions so that riders can optimize fuel efficiency.
Through Rideology the App, riders can access vehicle info, a riding log, smartphone notifications, a maintenance log, and the ability to share location and riding logs with other app users.
Styling | 2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500 and Z500
Styling is where the Ninja 500 and the Z500 diverge. The Ninja 500 features a redesigned front end and large-volume bodywork inherited from larger-displacement Ninjas, along with compact LED headlights, built-in front turnsignals, and an LED taillight with a new design.
2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500 SE 40th Anniversary Edition ABS in Lime Green / Pearl Crystal White / Blue
The Z500 features less bodywork, as well as a triple LED headlight configuration that acts as a styling focal point. The two upper headlights serve as low beams while the lower headlight acts as the high beam. The Z500 also features a new LED taillight.
The 2024 Kawasaki Z500 ABS features a triple LED headlight.
The SE versions of the Ninja 500 and Z500 add a variety of upgrades. The SE versions of both bikes feature a full color TFT display, a USB-C outlet, a radiator screen, frame sliders, a pillion seat cover, a tank pad, and knee-grip pads. Also included on the Ninja 500 SE is a large clear windscreen and Kawasaki’s Intelligent Proximity Activation Start System, which uses a key fob to allow riders to remotely release the bike’s steering lock and main switch. The Z500 SE comes with a smoke-colored meter cover.
Pricing | 2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500 and Z500
The 2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500 comes standard in Metallic Spark Black / Metallic Flat Raw Graystone for $5,299. The KRT Edition adds $200. The ABS version is available in Metallic Spark Black / Metallic Flat Raw Graystone, White Silver / Metallic Moondust Gray, or Passion Red / Metallic Flat Spark Black / Metallic Matte Dark Gray from $5,699-5,899. The SE ABS and KRT SE ABS versions come in Passion Red / Metallic Flat Spark Black / Metallic Matte Dark Gray for $6,399. The SE 40th Anniversary Edition ABS comes in Lime Green / Pearl Crystal White / Blue for $6,599.
2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500 ABS in White Silver / Metallic Moondust Gray
The 2024 Kawasaki Z500 ABS comes in Candy Lime Green / Metallic Flat Spark Black / Metallic Graphite Gray for $5,599, and the SE ABS version comes in Candy Persimmon Red / Metallic Flat Spark Black / Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray for $6,299.
All Kawasaki Ninja 500 and Z500 variations are available now. Visit the Kawasaki website for more information.
2024 Kawasaki KLX230 S and KLX230SM
2024 Kawasaki KLX230 S in Lime Green
The Kawasaki KLX230 S dual-sport and KLX230SM supermoto models, first introduced in 2020, also receive updates for 2024. The most notable updates for these two models are found in the chassis and the revised rear subframe, along with some other updates to the ABS system, styling, seat, and added smartphone connectivity.
The 2024 Kawasaki KLX230 S and KLX230SM are powered by an air-cooled 232cc Single.
Powering the KLX230 S and KLX230SM is an air-cooled 233cc Single with a bore and stroke of 67.0mm x 66.0mm. The long stroke offers good low-to-mid-range torque. The intake port is 4mm narrower for 2024 (now measuring 33mm) to help contribute to low-to-mid-range performance. These bikes use a 6-speed transmission with a 45/14 final gear ratio selected for a balance of road and trail riding.
Chassis | 2024 Kawasaki KLX230 S and KLX230SM
Both models ride on a high-tensile steel perimeter frame, and for 2024, the rear subframe has been redesigned to trace a lower line on the machine, allowing for longer wheel travel while maintaining good ground reach. Both bikes have a 53.7-inch wheelbase. Ground clearance on the KLX230 S is 9.5 inches, while on the KLX230SM it’s 8.7 inches.
2024 Kawasaki KLX230SM in Battle Gray
On the KLX230 S, a 37mm telescopic fork provides 7.9 inches of travel. A new Uni-Trak rear linkage shock allows 8.9 inches of travel and is preload adjustable. Additionally, a new aluminum swingarm is 2.6 lb lighter than the previous swingarm. The new chassis design has allowed for a lower seat height of 33.3 inches, and the sidestand has also been shortened to match the lower seat height.
2024 Kawasaki KLX230 S in Battle Gray
The KLX230 SM, designed more for on-road use than its KLX230 S brethren, uses a 37mm inverted fork up front with 7.4 inches of front wheel travel. Like the KLX230 S, the SM adds the Uni-Trak rear linkage shock with preload adjustability. For 2024, suspension settings were revised to create a more forward-leaning posture and increase rear wheel travel to 8.8 inches. To accommodate on-road riding, the SM comes with stiffer spring settings, and the off-road footpegs from the 230S are replaced with standard footpegs with rubber pads on the SM. The SM’s seat height is 33.1 inches.
The 2024 Kawasaki KLX230SM and KLX230 S feature a new compact LED headlight.
The 2024 Kawaski KLX230 S rides on aluminum wheels, measuring 21 inches in the front and 18 inches in the rear compared to the Kawasaki KLX230SM’s 17-inch front and rear wheels that are wider than the KLX230 S wheels. The dual-sport KLX230 S comes with a 240mm front petal disc gripped by a 2-piston caliper, while the supermoto KLX230SM uses a 300mm front petal disc and 2-piston caliper. Both bikes feature the same 220mm rear disc with single-piston caliper.
Technology | 2024 Kawasaki KLX230 S and KLX230SM
The KLX230 S dual-sport comes standard without ABS, and an ABS version is available, while the KLX230SM supermoto comes standard with ABS. The ABS unit has been updated for 2024 with a switch on the left side of the handlebar that can be used to disable both front and rear ABS. When the bike is turned off and back on, ABS returns to default.
Both bikes feature a new compact LED headlight and a redesigned two-toned seat with a flatter silhouette that allows more freedom of movement. Additionally, the bodywork has been smoothed over to eliminate some protruding parts. The 2-gallon fuel tank has also been redesigned.
The LCD display offers additional functionality through Rideology the App.
Also new for 2024 is smartphone connectivity through Rideology the App. The app gives riders access to vehicle information, a GPS-informed riding log, smartphone notifications on the LCD display screen, a maintenance log, and communication sharing with other app users.
Pricing | 2024 Kawasaki KLX230 S and KLX230SM
2024 Kawasaki KLX230 S in Lime Green
The 2024 Kawasaki KLX230 S comes in Lime Green / Battle Gray for $4,999 without ABS or $5,299 with ABS. The 2024 Kawasaki KLX230SM supermoto variant comes in Battle Gray for $5,599. Both bikes are available now.
No one can stop the wheel of time from turning, and that wheel is turning away from internal combustion engines (ICE) and toward alternative power sources. As the world investigates cleaner fuel options, motorcycle brands are following suit. Kawasaki released the Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 fully electric bikes last year, and adding to the range of power options are the new Kawasaki Ninja 7 Hybrid ABS and Z7 Hybrid ABS models, both of which employ an ICE and an electric motor to produce power.
Kawasaki says these bikes as the first “strong” hybrid motorcycles, meaning they can run on ICE power, electric power, or both depending on the ride mode selected. Being able to select which power source is used at any given time allows riders to choose if they want a full-power experience or a fuel-efficient and zero-emission ride. Providing both in one motorcycle takes some ingenuity, and while the styling of these bikes will remind one of recognizable Ninja and Z-series motorcycles, the inner workings are different than what you’re used to.
2024 Kawasaki Ninja 7 Hybrid ABS
This First Look Review covers both the Ninja 7 and the Z7 Hybrid bikes, as these two motorcycles are essentially the same with some cosmetic differences. Like other Kawasaki models in the Ninja and Z-series families, the Ninja variant has full bodywork while the Z7 has less. One other difference is that the Z7 has a higher handlebar for a more upright riding position, although the handlebar on the Ninja 7 Hybrid is also raised higher than on other Ninjas. The rest of the details below will be the same for both hybrid motorcycles.
2024 Kawasaki Z7 Hybrid ABS
Engine & Motor | Kawasaki Ninja 7 Hybrid ABS and Z7 Hybrid ABS
The ICE unit in these bikes is the liquid-cooled 451cc parallel-Twin taken from the Kawasaki Eliminator. The engine prioritizes high-rpm performance, and the Integrated Starter Generator is a first for Kawasaki and combines starter and generator functions. The electric power source is a liquid-cooled traction motor paired with a 48V lithium-ion battery pack and rated at 7.0 kW (9.0 kW max). Unlike fully electric vehicles, the battery on these bikes charges while riding, so there’s no need to plug in to a power source before your ride.
The battery pack is located beneath the seat. The Integrated Starter Generator is on the left side of the ICE, and the ECU is in the tail section. All of this is placed within a lightweight trellis frame.
Suspension on both bikes is provided by a nonadjustable 41mm telescopic fork and a new Uni-Trak suspension with linkage positioned below the swingarm in the rear. The rear suspension also offers adjustable ride height (seat height is 31.3 inches). Both bikes use dual 300mm front disc brakes with 2-piston calipers and a single 220mm rear disc with a 1-piston caliper, and both come with ABS. Kawasaki claims that the ergonomics of these bikes optimize low- and medium-speed maneuvers. The fuel tank holds 3.7 gallons of fuel, and curb weight for the Ninja 7 is claimed at 502.7 lb (weight for the Z7 is not available).
The versatility of these two hybrid bikes is accessed through the three ride modes: Sport-Hybrid, Eco-Hybrid, and EV modes. As the name suggests, Sport-Hybrid mode is designed for sporty riding, and gives the rider access to the bike’s full power potential. In Eco-Hybrid mode, the electric motor kicks in during startup and transitions from electric to hybrid power once the engine gets up to around 2,000 rpm, optimizing fuel efficiency. For all-electric power, EV mode is designed for low-speed and short-distance rides and can only be engaged when the bike is in 4th gear or lower and with a speed of less than 15 mph.
Both hybrid models come with a windshield.
Unlike most ICE-powered motorcycles, the Ninja 7 Hybrid and Z7 Hybrid feature an electronically controlled 6-speed transmission – no clutch lever or left-foot shift lever is included. In Sport-Hybrid and Eco-Hybrid ride modes, riders have the option to operate the transmission manually with shift buttons on the left switchgear. The hydraulic clutch is controlled by the ECU to operate automatically.
Ride mode selection, manual/automatic selection, and shift buttons are located on the left switchgear.
The e-boost functionality is activated with a button on the right switchgear.
Rider Aids and Other Technologies | Kawasaki Ninja 7 Hybrid ABS and Z7 Hybrid ABS
Since the ride modes put power to the ground in different ways, they each have distinct functions and rider aids available that contribute to the riding experience. In Sport-Hybrid mode, the e-boost function elevates the overall output for a brief 5-second period, providing a burst of power that Kawasaki claims matches that of a 650cc-class motorcycle. This function can be activated while riding or when stopped for a more thrilling acceleration off a standing start.
These two bikes are also equipped with an Automatic Launch Position Finder. This feature automatically drops the transmission down to 1st gear when the bike comes to a stop, and the system can be deactivated for riders who prefer more manual control.
Adding to this growing list of technologies is Walk Mode with a reverse function. This mode allows for easy maneuvering in a parking lot or garage and propels the bike at a speed of 2 mph. Closing the throttle beyond the “zero” position kicks the bike into reverse, again no faster than 2 mph.
The Kawasaki Ninja 7 Hybrid and Z7 Hybrid come with a 4.3-inch TFT full-color display with Bluetooth connectivity to a smartphone via Rideology the App. The screen’s background transitions from white to black depending on ambient lighting, or it can be set to white or black for personal preference. The brightness also adjusts automatically.
Through smartphone connectivity, riders can access a list of data and options through Kawasaki’s app, including vehicle information, a GPS-informed riding log, call or mail notifications on the display, a maintenance log, and the ability to share riding logs and location with other Rideology the App users.
Styling and Pricing | Kawasaki Ninja 7 Hybrid ABS and Z7 Hybrid ABS
The styling of these bikes merges recognizable Ninja and Z-series styling with a futuristic hybrid aesthetic. They both come equipped with a windshield to help deflect wind from the rider and passenger. All lighting is LED.
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