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Motorcycle News, News

Aprilia 2019 USA Models Announced

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The new model season is like Christmas here at MO, and reading Aprilia’s release just gets us even more excited about the 2019 model year.

Begin Press Release:

APRILIA USA ANNOUNCES 2019 MODEL YEAR LINEUP

The model range receives numerous improvements, announcing pricing, colors, and availability

WHO: Aprilia USA
WHAT: Aprilia USA 2019 Model Range Announcement

WHERE: Aprilia Dealerships Throughout the USA

WHEN: 2019 Year Models

DETAILS:

RSV4 RANGE

The RSV4 project has always pursued a stated goal: to be the absolute best and fastest uncompromising superbike, the one that comes the closest to Aprilia racing bikes in terms of performance and effectiveness. A premium product at the top of its category dedicated to extremely demanding customers who want top shelf performance and refined technical equipment, provided thanks in part to the use of prestigious materials like aluminum, titanium and carbon.

Aprilia 2019

RSV4 1100 Factory

Aprilia RSV4 1100 Factory – the latest step in this evolutionary line – boasts exceptional performance combined with a racing frame and suspension and an electronic controls package, both evolved even further. New for 2019, the RSV4 1100 Factory is the lightest, most powerful, and fastest RSV4 ever created.

Availability: March

2019 Colors: Atomico 6

MSRP: $24,499

Aprilia 2019

RSV4 1000 RR

Aprilia RSV4 RR represents a top shelf technical platform, ready to provide the rider with a “race replica”performance and feeling. In order to support the most demanding riders, one of the available accessories Aprilia offers is the Track kit, a package of prestigious parts that work together to improve many aspects of the RSV4 RR such as its weight, handling, aerodynamics and, last but not least, its appearance. The MY19 version of RSV4 RR has not undergone any technical changes with respect to the previous version.

Availability: March 2019
Colors: Grigio Rivazza, Nero Arrabbiata

MSRP: $17,499

TUONO V4 1100 RANGE

Simply unrivalled. The Aprilia naked range, heir to a family of motorbikes which has been voted over time as one of the most adrenaline pumping and efficient bikes ever, achieves absolute performance levels and sophistication, thanks to Aprilia’s know-how acquired over years of winning premier level competitions and the experience of the Tuono history, which is thus confirmed as being unbeatable on the track and endless fun on the road.

TUONO FACTORY

The new Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 Factory comes standard with the most advanced and efficient electronic suspension system currently available, the latest technological frontier offered by manufacturer Öhlins, developed in close contact with Aprilia engineers. With the upgraded electronic suspension, adjustable to suit any rider need, and along with the inherited RSV4-style tail section, the Tuono Factory is the model of choice for the performance-demanding rider that will not settle for less.

Availability: March 2019

Colors: Superpole

MSRP: $18,999

Aprilia 2019

TUONO RR

Tuono V4 1100 RR represents an exceptional thrill machine, the heir to a dynasty of naked sport bikes acclaimed by critics as the most effective and fastest bike in its segment. Fit with conventions Sachs suspension components; forks, shock and damper, the Tuono RR comes equipped with a dedicated passenger saddle making it the a more street-biased option among the two models.

Availability: March 2019
Colors: Rosso Sachsenring, Grigio Magny-Cours

MSRP: $15,499

900 RANGE

The most recent evolution of the 90-degree V-Twin from Noale is powered by a refined 900cc engine that guarantees torque values at the top of the category. Performance combined with an absolutely top shelf frame for rideability that raises the bar to new heights in the bike segment. Intuitive, powerful, and easy to handle, also now even more technological thanks to the new integrated navigation system in the instrument cluster.

Aprilia 2019

SHIVER 900

Aprilia Shiver 900 represents the most recent evolution of the original project of a motorcycle that, from its first appearance on the scene in 2007, marked a turning point as the first factory bike fitted with Ride-by- wire technology to manage engine throttle valve electronics. From city riding to more flowing routes, from mountain passes to touring itineraries, even long range, Shiver 900 invites you to fasten your helmet and set off in search of the best sensations on two wheels.

Availability: May 2019
Colors: Hi-Tech Silver, Innovation Dark MSRP: $9,399

DORSODURO 900

The supermotard from Aprilia evolves with the sole objective of providing maximum riding enjoyment, boosted by the updated powerful twin-cylinder engine. With 90NM of torque the Aprilia Dorsoduro is the fun bike par excellence. Born out of an ingenious intuition by Aprilia, it was built to exceed the benchmark from the Dorsoduro 750, providing the highest possibility of road riding fun, drawing from the best characteristics of sport bikes and supermotards. The result is a bike with advanced technical solutions, agile and with performance at the top of its category.

Availability: May 2019
Colors: Adrenalinic Silver, Exciting Black MSRP: $10,999

Aprilia 2019

SR 50 MT

Availability: In Dealerships Now Colors: Racing Black
MSRP: $2,199

Find out about other Aprilia events and current model offerings and special promotions at:Aprilia USA, and Aprilia Americas Facebook pages

The post Aprilia 2019 USA Models Announced appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

Competition, News

Maxwell shakes down Team Suzuki Ecstar GSX-R1000R at Phillip Island

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Former champion samples 2019 ASBK contender in Victoria.

Image: Russell Colvin.

Words: Russell Colvin

Two-time Australian Superbike champion Wayne Maxwell had his first taste of the Team Suzuki Ecstar Australia-prepared GSX-R1000R yesterday in a shakedown test at Victoria’s Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.

After not having ridden a Suzuki GSX-R1000 since 2013, which was the year when Maxwell stormed to his maiden ASBK crown, Maxwell admitted that yesterday’s outing felt foreign and different throughout the initial stages.

However, straight away the 36-year-old Victorian rider managed to get down to a lap-time that he anticipated, ultimately clocking an unofficial best 1ms33.8s around the 4.445km seaside circuit.

“It was a very positive day as the team and I worked through a range of particular things, including testing a new range of the 2019 Pirelli spec tyres,” Maxwell explained to CycleOnline.com.au. “I worked closely with Warren [Monson] and we managed to get the setting a lot better towards the end of the day. I believe now we have a direction where we want to go with the bike set-up.”

“I’m just really looking forward to getting back on the bike on the first weekend of February for the official ASBK test next year. I don’t believe we are quite there yet, but it’s realistically where we are at right now. At the end of the day, it’s a ride day. There is a fair bit of traffic on track, so to be able to get consistent laps becomes difficult.

“I need to improve and simply just build my confidence up. Along with that, I just have to familiarise myself with the team and they have to exactly work out what I want. It does make it difficult when we are testing stuff which they are unfamiliar with as well. I don’t have the best of feedbacks as I’m not familiar with the new Suzuki GSX-R1000R. In saying that, it’s only going to get stronger and stronger.”

When speaking of the GSX-R1000 he piloted to the 2013 championship, the only characteristic Maxwell was able to relate to the 2018 GSX-R1000R the fact that both Suzuki GSX-R1000’s had strong power.

“The Suzuki GSX-R1000 have always produced smooth power,” he added. “On top of that the bike does handle very well and holds its line and is extremely stable in the corner. Apart from that, the 2013 bike has obviously changed a lot to the current spec GSX-R1000R. The 2018 bike has all the latest and greatest electronics, traction control and other stuff.

“It’s a very different package to what I rode in 2013. In saying that, Phil [Tainton] and the team have done a great job in developing the bike since they’ve had it. I believe now with a bit of my input and what they already know, Josh [Waters] and I as team can move forward.”

Next time Maxwell and Waters will be out on track will be at the official ASBK test, which is scheduled for 2-3 February at the Island ahead of the curtain raiser, which takes place on the final weekend of February running alongside the opening round of the Motul FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK).

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

Competition, News

Laguna Seca included in updated 2019 WorldSBK calendar

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American stop scheduled in for the ninth round of the series.

Image: Supplied.

Laguna Seca in the United States has been included in an updated calendar for the 2019 Motul FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK), filling the void for round nine scheduled on 12-14 July.

The 2019 championship is set to see the introduction of a three-race format, where race one will remain on the Saturday of each round, while races two and three will be hosted on Sunday, boasting a sprint-length outing on Sunday morning before a traditional-length encounter in the afternoon.

The opening round of WorldSBK will take place at Phillip Island on 22-24 February, before heading to Thailand for round two on 15-17 March. First of the European rounds is Aragon in Spain on 5-7 April, followed by Assen in The Netherlands on 12-14 April and Imola in Italy on 10-12 May.

Spain’s Jerez will host round six on 7-9 June before the series heads to Misano, Italy, on 21-23 June. Round eight is scheduled for 5-7 July Donington Park in the UK, while round nine is set to be hosted at Laguna Seca.

Following the European summer break, racing resumes on 6-8 September in Portugal ahead of round 11 at Magny Cours in France, set for 27-29 September. Argentina will host the penultimate round on 11-13 October, with series wrapping up in Qatar on 24-26 October.

2019 WorldSBK calendar:
Rd1- 22-24 February – Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, Australia
Rd2 – 15-17 March – Chang International Circuit, Thailand
Rd3 – 5-7 April – MotorLand Aragon, Spain
Rd4 – 12-14 April – TT Circuit Assen, The Netherlands
Rd5 – 10-12 May – Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari di Imola, Italy
Rd6 – 7-9 June – Circuito de Jerez, Spain
Rd7 – 21-23 June – Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, Italy
Rd8 – 5-7 July – Donington Park, UK
Rd9 – 12-14 July – Laguna Seca, USA
Rd10 – 6-8 September – Autodromo Internacional do Algarve, Portugal
Rd11 – 27-29 September – Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours, France
Rd12 – 11-13 October – Circuito San Juan Villicum, Argentina
Rd13 – 24-26 October – Losail International Circuit, Qatar

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

Competition, News

2-Stroke Amateur Nationals set for 2019 introduction

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Three-round junior and senior two-stroke series a boost for Australian motocross.

Image: Foremost Media.

Williams Event Management, promoter of the Pirelli MX Nationals, is set to introduce a three-round series dubbed the Yamaha bLU cRU 2-Stroke Amateur Nationals in 2019.

The series, backed by Yamaha Motor Australia and endorsed by Motorcycling Australia (MA), will be open to both junior and senior competitors, and is designed with the intention of grooming youthful talents for international events, particularly the FIM Junior Motocross World Championship.

“I was fortunate enough to spend a week at Horsham for the Junior Motocross World Championship,” said WEM director Kevin Williams. “During that week I had the opportunity to speak with the people from the FIM and majority of the international riders and their teams about two-stroke racing.”

“I was managing the mechanics area therefore I had the opportunity to gain some valuable knowledge during these conversations and it became very obvious that Australia are behind the rest of the MX world in helping to prepare our junior riders for international events, so I met with MA and we put a program together that would help in this area.”

MA CEO Peter Doyle added: “MA has had a long relationship with WEM, and we are pleased to be able to work alongside them with creating a series that will aid in the development of the junior riders in preparation for international competition. We will be looking at the results of the competitors in this series, along with other event results, during the selection process for the Australian junior world team.”

“The senior two-stroke classes are a great opportunity for the dads and other amateur level riders to put some fun back into their racing as well as encouraging some legends of the sport to pull their boots back on for some healthy competition against prior rivals and team mates. Therefore, as the new two-stroke series unfolds, it will bring out a great camaraderie amongst everyone and help create a family-friendly environment within the sport.”

Round one will take place at Traralgon in Victoria on 10 February, followed by Coolum, Queensland, on 3 March, and Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, on 27 April. Junior classes include 65cc (9-U12 years), 85cc and 125cc, while senior categories will boast two-stroke all powers and retro two-stroke (plus 20 years age of bike frame and engine) divisions.


Source: MotoOnline.com.au

Motorcycle News, News

Honda Releases Pricing And Availability for 2019 CRF110F, CRF125F, CRF125F Big Wheel

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A few staples in Honda’s dirt collection to get the youngsters into the sport are coming back for 2019. Below you’ll find pricing, availability, and more information on the 2019 CRF110F, CRF125F, and CRF125F Big Wheel.

Begin press release:

Honda has released pricing and availability for the 2019 CRF110F and CRF125F / CRF125F Big Wheel, which were revealed in November alongside the all-new CRF250F.

CRF110F

The heart of a racer beats in every youngster who watches Team Honda HRC factory riders Ken Roczen and Cole Seely on television or from a stadium seat. That CRF Performance Line technology and style have now reached the motorcycle for younger riders, with the all-new fuel-injected CRF110F. For 2019, this model features a Keihin electronic fuel-injection system that’s tuned for linear power delivery and precise throttle response, and is 50-state off-road legal. The easier-to-use power is matched to an all-new steel twin-spar frame that’s engineered with CRF Performance Line DNA but extensively tested and developed for the right balance of precision and comfort for recreational riders. The smooth power delivery and nimble chassis function together to offer a secure ride. The new CRF110F carries over its four-speed, clutch-less transmission for takeoffs and shifting that quickly become comfortable for every rider. An additional 12mm of rear-suspension travel and a 5mm increase in seat-foam thickness (without increasing overall seat height) mean improved comfort whether sitting or standing. And of course the CRF110F delivers Honda’s legendary build quality and reliability, so the bike dependably fires up every time the starter button is pressed and doesn’t stop until the tank runs dry—and when that moment is looming, the FI system provides a low-fuel warning light. A big benefit for the young rider’s “factory mechanic” is that the fuel-injection system eliminates the possibility of carburetor jets clogging with fuel residue if the motorcycle sits for an extended period—and reduced maintenance means more family time on the trail or track. The CRF110F boasts top-level performance in a small package—just like its rider.

2019 Updates

  • Follows technology developments of CRF Performance Line with Keihin electronically controlled fuel-injection system that delivers linear and hesitation-free power, minimizing intimidation for new riders and providing a friendly power delivery for all levels. Fuel-injection system delivers smooth power at all rpm and all throttle openings.
  • Twin-spar steel frame, inspired by the CRF Performance Line frame architecture, provides the right balance of rigidity and comfort.
  • New frame and 12mm increase in rear-suspension travel let this small bike handle the bigger bumps with better control and reduced bottoming.
  • New seat foam is 5mm thicker, yet bike maintains same overall seat height of previous model due to seat placement in the new frame.
  • New 1 gallon steel fuel tank with integrated fuel pump incorporates built-in fuel filter and low-fuel indicator on handlebar (lights up at .2 gallons remaining). New frame design shields tank in the event of a fall.
  • All-new bodywork with CRF Performance Line styling and graphics.
  • New handlebar-mounted multiple-function handlebar switch incorporates starter button, ignition “key on” indicator, fuel-injection system status, and “low fuel” indicator light (replaces reserve setting on petcock).
  • New ratchet-style fuel-tank cap reduces possibility of loosening during ride.
  • Half-waffle grips have a smaller circumference for an improved fit with smaller hands.

Engine / Drivetrain

  • Air-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke 109cc engine tuned for new riders.
  • Four-speed gearbox with automatic clutch.
  • Adjustable throttle-limiter screw to match rider abilities.
  • Convenient electric starter with kick-start backup.

Chassis / Suspension

  • Low seat height of only 26.3 inches.
  • Handlebar pad.
  • Meets current EPA and CARB off-road emissions standards.
  • Price: $2,399
  • Availability: March

CRF125F / CRF125F Big Wheel

CRF Performance Line technology such as fuel injection and twin-spar frame design is now bestowed on the CRF Trail Line, advancing the 2019 CRF125F and CRF125F Big Wheel into modern off-road motorcycles that maximize fun and ride enjoyment. The electronically controlled Keihin fuel-injection system delivers smooth, seamless, linear power at any rpm and throttle setting—ideal for new motorcyclists and equally advantageous for advanced riders on technical trails or when going through big elevation changes—and the model is 50-state off-road legal. The all-new twin-spar frame is made of steel and extensively tested and developed for a confidence-inspiring chassis wrapped in new body panels and graphics that match those of the model’s race-oriented CRF siblings. Both CRF125F models retain the proven 124.9cc SOHC engine and four-speed gearbox for strong power and intuitive shifting feel. In terms of hardware, the two versions differ only in wheel size, swingarm length and final-drive gearing, resulting in a difference in seat height of 1.8 inches. Instructors or parents will appreciate the peace of mind that comes with putting a rider on a secure and nimble machine, and maintenance is simplified with fuel injection—no jets to change or to clog with fuel residue if the bike sits for an extended period. Electric start, low-fuel indicator light, ignition “key on” indicator, and Honda’s earned reputation for making the best-built and most dependable motorcycles on the trail mean pride of ownership all week and fun and thrills every weekend.

2019 Updates

  • All-new electronically controlled Keihin fuel-injection system replaces carburetor. FI delivers linear and hesitation-free power for easier-to-control delivery at all points in the powerband.
  • Twin-spar steel frame, with heavy-duty design inspired by the frame architecture of the CRF Performance Line, provides the right balance of rigidity and suppleness for trail-bike comfort.
  • Suspension travel increased (by 10mm increase in front, 12mm rear) for improved plushness and better bottoming resistance.
  • New 1 gallon steel fuel tank with integrated fuel pump and fuel filter. Low-fuel indicator on handlebar illuminates when .2 gallons remain. New frame design shields tank in the event of a fall.
  • All-new bodywork and graphics match styling of CRF Performance Line.
  • New handlebar-mounted, multiple-function switch incorporates starter button, ignition “key on” indicator, fuel-injection system status, and low-fuel indicator light. (Replaces reserve setting on petcock.)
  • New ratchet-style fuel tank cap reduces possibility of loosening during ride.
  • Half-waffle grips have a smaller circumference for a better fit with smaller hands.
  • New seat foam is 5mm taller, yet seat height on the standard version is only 2mm higher, due to seat placement in the new frame. (Seat height on Big Wheel version isn’t increased from 2018.)

Engine/Drivetrain

  • The 124.9cc SOHC engine returns with smoother, more linear power delivery.
  • Four-speed gearbox is well matched to the broad power spread.
  • Electric starter makes getting going a breeze, with kick-start backup included.

Chassis/Suspension

  • CRF125F and CRF125F Big Wheel have seat heights of 29.1 inches and 30.9 inches, respectively.
  • CRF125F has wheel sizes of 17 and 14 inches front and rear, respectively. CRF125F Big Wheel has 19- and 16-inch wheels.
  • The 31mm fork provides plush front-suspension action.
  • Pro-Link® rear-suspension design with sophisticated single shock for consistent action.
  • Smooth stopping power provided by hydraulic front brake with 220mm rotor and 95mm rear drum brake.
  • Front brake lever is adjustable to work with varying hand sizes.
  • Styling follows that of the race-winning CRF Performance Line.
  • Meets CARB and EPA off-road emissions standards.
  •  Price
    • CRF125F: $3,099
    • CRF125F Big Wheel: $3,499
  • Availability: March























The post Honda Releases Pricing And Availability for 2019 CRF110F, CRF125F, CRF125F Big Wheel appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

Motorcycle News, News

Yoshimura Introduces 2019 Kawasaki ZX-6R 3/4 System and FE Kit

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Ditching the stock Kawasaki ZX-6R exhaust for the Yoshimura system tosses nearly 11 pounds while gaining nearly 5% more power. Not to mention it also sounds great.

Begin press release:

Without a doubt the Kawasaki ZX-6R is one of the hottest middle weight sport bikes on the market. 2019 brings a refresher to the 636cc green machine, so Yoshimura went to work and refined our offering for this revised legend.

The heritage of the ZX-6R demanded our Alpha T 3/4 system which removes the stock muffler and muffler box to enable us to get even more performance then just developing a typical slip-on system. Did we mention there is almost an 11 pound weight loss?

The results were amazing! More throttle response and torque made the ZX-6R come alive with peak torque gains at 4.7% and max HP at 2.2% the green machine is ready to rise to the top of the podium. Oh yeah, and that distinctive Yoshimura Alpha T exhaust note and that exclusive Works Finish will have your heart revving for more!

Also available is our Fender Eliminator Kit specifically designed for the 2019 ZX-6R.

2019 Kawasaki ZX-6R Alpha T 3/4 System and FE Kit pricing and info

2019 Kawasaki ZX-6R Street Alpha T 3/4 SS/SS/CF WF 

Part # 14642CP520
MSRP: $649.00
QUALIFIED MANUFACTURER DECLARED “REPLACEMENT PART”

2019 Kawasaki ZX-6R Fender Eliminator kit 
Part # 070BG146420
MSRP: $149.00

The post Yoshimura Introduces 2019 Kawasaki ZX-6R 3/4 System and FE Kit appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

Motorcycle News, News

The 2019 Metzeler Calendar Is Now Available

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Alongside the Metzeler Classic Calendar, now in its 25th Edition and celebrating with black and white shots of two wheel competition between the 60’s and 70’s, there is the thematic one titled “Ways of Cruising.”

Begin press release: 

The METZELER brand is pleased to present the 2019 METZELER CALENDAR that, as per tradition, presents two versions. The Classic one, now in its 25th year, is celebrating two-wheeled competition between the 60’s and 70’s with black and white shots. The thematic one is entitled “WAYS OF CRUISING” and is dedicated to the custom cruiser world;a world which the German tire brand has always had a strong presence. 2019 will also see the debut of the new CRUISETEC™, a Custom Touring tire that optimizes the performance of V-Twins.

When it comes to tires, cruiser owners are historically very demanding and, although with different riding styles, these riders travel great distances enjoying the road. Their expectation for their tires is clear: they must offer reliability and confidence, regardless of road conditions, usage and weather.

The METZELER brand, known for being at the forefront of technology, offers the right choice for every rider with its custom tire range. Whether you ride the latest generation powerful cruiser and you want to perfect the performance of your machine, or you’re looking for a mileage-orientated tire with a wide variety of fitments, the new 2019 METZELER custom tire range delivers a product to meet every rider’s needs.

Whichever style a rider chooses, it’s important to enjoy the ride and the evocative imagery on the pages of “WAYS OF CRUISING”, which showcases innovative approaches and new styles within this segment alongside elements of classic cruising. The search for performance builds the bridge to the timeless charm of the CLASSIC calendar that brings to life the heroes of the past. From Barry Sheene, Angel Nieto and Börje Jansson (January-February) to Phil Read and Jarno Saarinen (May-June) and Giacomo Agostini (November-December), to name just a few, the calendar portrays them as they fight for those decisive fractions of seconds with bold decisions and tight curved lines to achieve victory.

METZELER is a brand of German origins producing motorcycle tires focused on quality and performance. Established in Munich more than 100 years ago, METZELER has always had the goal to continuously develop products on the cutting edge of technology to meet the needs and expectations of motorcyclists’ needs.The history of METZELER goes hand in hand with the history of the motorcycle. From the use of new materials and the development of innovative tread designs, to the introduction of advanced rubber compounds, the German brand is always at the forefront of technical development.

Created in 1994 as a special edition of the cult calendar Classic Moments, the METZELER Calendar quickly became popular, winning over a faithful following of enthusiasts thanks to its precious snapshots from the street and off road two-wheel world, in which METZELER has raced and been successful throughout the years.

The 2019 edition of the METZELER CALENDAR, realized in Italy on a creative project by HH Global of Bergamo, features 14 subjects, in the case of the Classic also accompanied by descriptions in English and German. The photos of the thematic calendar are by Ben Ott, Goetz Goeppert, Volker Rost and Tom O’Connor while those of the Classic version are part of the photo archive of Text & Technik Verlag in Weissach, Germany. The calendar has been printed front and rear in a limited edition of 6000 copies by Grafiche Antiga SpA on high quality paper and both covers are printed on glossy paper.



The post The 2019 Metzeler Calendar Is Now Available appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

News

Are advertising standards killing motorcycles?

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Remember advertising with motorcycles doing wheelies and burnouts and bikes draped in near-naked women?

Changing attitudes and the Advertising Standards Bureau (ASB) have virtually wiped out this sort of advertising.

Has this taken some of the thrill and sex out of motorbikes? Could this be contributing to the downturn in sales, particularly among younger people?

The motorcycle industry doesn’t seem to advocate a return to sexist and irresponsible advertising.

In fact, the industry is now so socially responsible about advertising motorcycles there were only two complaints to the ASB this year and both were dismissed.

Advertising complaints

One was for a motorcycle industry ad and the other was for an insurance company.

The IAG Insurance ad depicted a man riding a motorcycle to shops repeating “milk and toilet paper” over and over. He then stops to urinate on a tree before continuing to ride to shops.

It’s actually a scenario many male riders could associate with having been caught short while out on a ride.

The complainant said: “Public urination is illegal, offensive and unhygienic.”

In its reply, the advertiser said the “tone of the spot was light hearted and humorous in nature”.

The ABS panel considered whether the advertisement was in breach of Section 2.6 of the Advertiser Code of Ethics (AANA) concerning Health and Safety Unsafe behaviour.

It states: “Advertising or Marketing Communications shall not depict material contrary to Prevailing Community Standards on health and safety.”

The panel dismissed the complaint saying there was no nudity, the audio was discrete and “the inference of a man urinating in a deserted Australian bush area when appropriate facilities are not available would not be considered by most members of the community to be against Prevailing Community Standard”.

Good to know!

Another dismissed complaint this year concerned a Geelong Motorcycle Service Centre ad on the back of a bus featuring a motorcycle doing an “irresponsible” wheelie or mono while wearing jeans.

Peeves wheelie advertising
You mean like this?

The company said the ad was artwork that depicted a rider with appropriate protective riding gear including protective motorcycle jeans.

ABS found that the ad did not breach the code concerning Health and Safety Unsafe behaviour.

They considered that “a still image of a motorcycle stunt being performed in a fantasy situation is not a depiction in this instance which most members of the community would consider to be unsafe or against prevailing community standards”.

This compares with the judgement to uphold two complaints in 2017 for print ads for Volley sand shoes that showed a couple siting on a motorcycle and not wearing helmets.

advertising standards killing motorcycles
Volley ad

Other products promoting motorcycling is good for our industry as it promotes motorcycling as an adventure.

However, the complainant lodged their concern “on the grounds that it is misleading with regards to safety and irresponsible given the efforts by government and other groups to encourage motorcyclists to wear adequately protective clothing”.

“Indeed, in relation to helmet it could be seen as encouraging people to disregard the laws.”

The ABS found that the ad did breach the code.

Some of the other complaints in the past few years have consisted of sexism, unsafe riding, not wearing helmets, and even a Transport Accident Commission motorcycle safety ad that was “too graphic”.

Motorcycling is sexy and thrilling which is easy to advertise, if the bureaucrats will let you.

It also has a lot of practical virtues, but they don’t make good ads.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Competition, News

Van Eerde lands CEV Moto3 Junior World Championship deal for 2019

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Australian signs with Junior Talent Team in competitive category.

Image: Supplied.

Reigning Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup champion Billy van Eerde has landed a deal in FIM CEV Repsol Moto3 Junior World Championship with the Junior Talent Team (JTT) for 2019.

Van Eerde makes the step to the series as the first Australian Asia Talent Cup race winner and champion, where he’ll be racing alongside the rider he narrowly beat to the crown – Haruki Noguchi from Japan. The two join Yuki Kunii, the veteran of the squad and now a Moto3 Junior World Championship race winner aiming even higher in 2019, in Asia Talent Team colours.

The remainder of the team is made up of Max Cook and Mario Aji, who’ll sport British Talent Team and Astra Honda Racing Team colours respectively.

Promoting and running talents from different paths on the Road to MotoGP, the JTT unifies three team names under the same umbrella and unites the efforts of Dorna talent promotion programs, including the sponsors and partners who provide important backing to young riders and teams.

The Australian will take part in a team winter bootcamp before racing starts on the 7 April at the Circuito do Estoril for the FIM CEV Repsol season-opener.

Source: CycleOnline.com.au