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Marquez tops Miller on wet opening day at Valencia

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Difficult conditions greet riders as final round of MotoGP season commences.

Image: Supplied.

Repsol Honda Team’s Marc Marquez completed day one at the Gran Premio Motul de la Comunitat Valenciana as the fastest man in some tough and wet conditions, topping Australian Jack Miller (Alma Pramac Racing).

Thanks to his FP1 time of 1m39.767s, the Spaniard headed Alma Pramac Racing’s Jack Miller and Danilo Petrucci and the top three were split by just 0.140s on Friday.

Just like FP1, the FP2 session was red-flagged in the early stages due to unsafe track conditions. This came after debris was left on circuit after Johann Zarco (Monster Yamaha Tech 3) crashed at the tricky turn 12, but the Frenchman was okay and returned to the pits.

A short delay followed before the riders headed back out, but with the rain heavier than it was in FP1, none of the riders were able to improve on their morning times and the top 10 were decided for the day.

This left Marquez ending Friday as the quickest rider and Miller P2, despite finishing 13th in FP2. Petrucci topped FP2 by a significant margin as 0.407s was the gap back to the number 93, with Valentino Rossi (Movistar Yamaha MotoGP) the only other rider within a second of the Ducati rider in the second session.

It was 12th overall for ‘The Doctor’ however. Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati Team) sits fourth overall and the Italian was P12 in FP2, with Dani Pedrosa (Repsol Honda Team) completing the top five despite conditions that have often been more difficult for the newly-inducted Legend this season.

Andrea Iannone (Team Suzuki Ecstar) ends P6 on the combined times, with Maverick Vinales (Movistar Yamaha MotoGP) ending the day as the fastest Yamaha rider in seventh overall. Wildcard and Ducati Team test rider Michele Pirro sits P8 overall thanks to his FP1 time.

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Pol Espargaro grabs a provisional Q2 spot by ending Friday in ninth, along with teammate Bradley Smith’s eighth caps off a good day for the Austrian manufacturer in the wet conditions. Alex Rins (Team Ecstar Suzuki) rounded out the top 10.

In Moto2, Iker Lecuona (Swiss Innovative Investors) impressed in tough, wet conditions after his FP1 time saw him end day one at the summit of the Moto2 combined standings. Lecuona’s 1m46.705s in the morning was enough to see him better Alex Marquez (EG 0,0 Marc VDS) and Miguel Oliveira (Red Bull KTM Ajo). Remy Gardner (Tech3 Racing) was P24.

Rookie Alonso Lopez (Estrella Galicia 0,0) went fastest on his final flying lap in FP2 to end Friday on top in Moto3, his 1m51.873s enough to oust Marco Bezzecchi (Redox PruestelGP) and Fabio Di Giannantonio (Del Conca Gresini Moto3) took third.

Detailed results

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

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2018 Ducati Monster 797 Review

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Some things just make sense: tacos from Baja, coffee from Colombia, and motorcycles from Italy. Last year, Ducati released the friendly and approachable Monster 797 to offer somewhat of a stepping stone into its premier Monster lineup. The Monster was first introduced back in 1993 and at one point accounted for more than half of Ducati’s sales worldwide. The beast from Bologna has been mostly praised for its exceptional performance and power, which can be intimidating for some. However, being such an iconic bike desired by riders of all skill levels, Ducati decided to aim the newest addition to the Monster family toward a more casual enthusiast.

The Ducati Monster 797 comes packed with the same 803cc air-cooled Desmodue twin as the Ducati Scrambler which produces a maximum 73 hp at 8,250 rpm and 49 pound-feet of torque at 5,750 rpm. Matched with a six-speed gearbox transmission, 50mm throttle body, suspended on a 43mm Kayaba USD fork and a preload- and rebound-adjustable Sachs monoshock, all enclosed in a steel trellis frame.

We spent a day putting the Monster 797 to work ripping through canyons and slaying freeway miles to get an overall opinion of the bike in a variety of road conditions. At first glance, the Ducati Monster 797 looks like a bike packed with performance for tight corners, fast speed, and big wheelies, however, looks can be deceiving. My initial impression when throwing a leg over the 797 is the bike offers a neutral, upright seating position that creates a comfy ride. However, this sporty-looking machine became a little disappointing from the initial turn of the key due to an extremely generic display, reading nothing more than mph, trip 1, trip 2, the time, and, well, that’s it. With a very limited electronics package offering only non-switchable ABS, I immediately felt as if I was on a dated motorcycle.

Once I was on my way, bobbing from one side of the tire to the other as I carved through the twisty roads of Julian, California, I found myself gaining confidence in the bike for its rugged chassis and stiff suspension that allows the rider to feel extremely stable and planted throughout the corner. However, the 803cc air-cooled Desmodue twin left me wanting more for its lack of character throughout the revs. Although this bike gets up to speed quickly it just doesn’t seem to do it in an exciting, perilous way that leaves the rider in an emotional spectrum between excitement and terror as they try to put power to the ground and keep the front wheel down. After gaining all that speed it’s time to slow down, and this is where the Monster 797 fell short for me with is twitchy, divvy front end feel when grabbing a handful of front brake.

Although the Ducati Monster 797 doesn’t offer the same raging performance as some of its competitors, the more time I spent in the saddle the more I appreciated Ducati’s vision for a simple middleweight naked bike. This particular Monster creates a traditional experience for the rider transforming them to a time where bikes were more raw and mechanical, and less computerized. This is where the bike excelled for me. It’s not the latest and greatest thing on the road, but for making some pleasant-sounding noise on the open road, this Ducati fits the bill.

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

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Pedrosa named MotoGP Legend as retirement looms this weekend

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Spanish ace inducted into the Hall of Fame at Valencia.

Image: Supplied.

Three-time world champion Dani Pedrosa has been named a MotoGP Legend ahead of hanging up his leathers at the end of 2018, with the Spaniard inducted into the MotoGP Legends Hall of Fame at the season finale at Valencia.

Pedrosa won the 125 championship in 2003 and the 250 title in 2004 and 2005, and is one of the most successful riders of all time in the premier category.

After taking the third most podiums of all time behind only Valentino Rossi (Movistar Yamaha) and Giacomo Agostini, Pedrosa retires at the end of 2018 with 54 premier MotoGP class victories to his credit.

“First of all thank you to Carmelo and thank you for the nice words,” said Pedrosa.” Obviously it’s a very emotional moment you never expect it to arrive when you’re a kid, and now to be here is a bit strange but I’ happy because I felt a lot of support from all the fans, a lot from all the paddock.

“I’m really, really happy about this moment to see my rivals of a lifetime here. I feel that MotoGP gave me a lot of things in my life because basically I’ve always been here and I learned a lot in life thanks to MotoGP. In the same way I’m very happy that I could give something else to the sport like Carmelo was explaining.

“When I started it was a new generation winning races and championships, not only me but everyone here on the front row. This is good for me because it’s a nice feeling that we opened a door for a new generation. Luckily I don’t know all my numbers which is a good thing!”

Asked about a standout moment, the Spaniard added: “Obviously the moment that stands out for me is the first championship because you achieve something you dreamed of. You know you can get a podium or win a race but to get a championship it’s something that, as a kid, you see these guys going so fast and you don’t believe it.

“So when you achieve it all the emotions come out, and not only that year but for life because you’re been dreaming of it since you were born – watching races on TV and wanting to be that guy. So that day is unique and that’s what makes you, it’s the drive that makes you want more and want to keep going and get through the tough times – and the reaction from the people and the love you get is something I could never imagine so for me that’s the most beautiful.”

Pedrosa joins a long list of greats that have been made MotoGP Legends that includes Giacomo Agostini, Mick Doohan, Geoff Duke, Wayne Gardner, Mike Hailwood, Daijiro Kato, Eddie Lawson, Anton Mang, Angel Nieto, Wayne Rainey, Phil Read, Jim Redman, Kenny Roberts, Jarno Saarinen, Kevin Schwantz, Barry Sheene, Marco Simoncelli, Freddie Spencer, Casey Stoner, John Surtees, Carlo Ubbiali, Alex Crivillé, Franco Uncini, Marco Lucchinelli, Randy Mamola, Kork Ballington and the late Nicky Hayden.

The number 26 is set to take on a development role with Red Bull KTM Factory Racing next year, while his position at Repsol Honda will be fulfilled by multi-time world champion Jorge Lorenzo.

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

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Lorenzo plans Ducati outgoing at Valencia grand prix

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Spaniard prepared for Repsol Honda debut at post-season test.

Image: Supplied.

After missing the last four races due to injury, Jorge Lorenzo will return to action this weekend at Valencia’s MotoGP World Championship finale, marking his last outing in Ducati Team colours.

Repsol Honda bound Lorenzo believes his wrist injury has improved drastically in the last two weeks since attempting to ride at Sepang, and is hopeful of putting in one final strong performance for the Italian squad prior to his departure.

“I will be riding on Sunday,” Lorenzo declared. “I think I’m quite well to be able to ride, in Sepang I wasn’t or I wasn’t able to fight for anything important. “But the injury has improved a lot in the last 10 days so now I feel good enough to try and achieve the best result possible for the team.

“It will be an emotional race because it will close an important chapter in my career. Maybe the rain will help me a bit to not stress the injury too much in the recovery too. I’m looking forward to getting on the bike. The first person I had to demonstrate something to was myself, but not even that because I always believed I can go fast on any bike it’s just a question of time.

“We’ve seen changing bikes in MotoGP is very difficult, the level is so high and every small bit of time is so important. In tenths you go from winning to losing ten positions. It was just a matter of time and with that time I showed I was competitive enough to win races. Not fighting for the target I wanted to achieve at Ducati, but here the good moments were very good and I want to give them the last present of a good race on Sunday.”

The multi-time world champion will experience his first taste of the Honda RC213V on Tuesday at the post-season Valencia test.

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

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Kawasaki Racing newcomer Haslam completes initial WorldSBK test

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British champion acquaints himself with WorldSBK-spec Ninja ZX-10RR.

Image: Supplied,

Kawasaki Racing Team’s newly-signed athlete Leon Haslam has completed his first test aboard the 2019 Ninja ZX-10RR at Aragon, joining teammate and four-time world champion Jonathan Rea.

The British Superbike champion worked between two base settings on his WorldSBK-spec machines, making one clear choice of direction before losing some track time due to a minor technical issue just after lunch.

Setting a best-time of 1m51.479s, Haslam was almost two seconds adrift of Rea’s best-time in his first outing, with the test ultimately being cut short ahead of day two commencing with wet weather preventing any further riding.

“The test was positive and I am getting to know all the guys in the team,” said Haslam. “We missed some track time on the opening day, but even then it could have not gone any better. We got quicker each time we went out and the pace was quite competitive, considering we were not looking for that.

“We were just evaluating and understanding things. We are taking it step-by-step and we have another two days at Jerez to test again before the winter break. So far, so good.”

Haslam’s crew chief Marcel Duinker commented: “I was very happy and confident from the very beginning of the tests. We have a BSB champion in our house with a lot of experience on different bikes, different championships and different tyres. Day one went very well. We had two different bike set-ups to put us in the correct direction for chassis development.

“He clearly chose one of them and with some minor changes towards the end of day one, Leon was in the ballpark with our closest competition, who had won several races in the past few years. So from this point of view I am very happy, but unfortunately day two was wet. After this single day on track and with the positive results, we are confident we will continue doing well in Jerez.”

The Kawasaki Racing Team will continue testing next weekend at Jerez in Spain for the final outing of the year.

Source: CycleOnline.com.au

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Australia leads ISDE as Milner and Sanders top individual standings

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Jones leads Women’s class as Australia strengthens team advantage.

Image: Supplied.

Day four of Chile’ FIM International Six Days Enduro (ISDE) has concluded with no changes at the top of the World Trophy leaderboard, as Team Australia continues to control proceedings with a six-minute advantage.

Once again setting the benchmark, Australia secured yet another comfortable day win. Fastest from the outset, they continued to confidently build their lead over Team USA and Italy.

Team Italy is becoming the clear favourite in the Junior World Trophy claiming their fourth day win, while the USA sits second overall ahead of Chile. Australia is currently ranked fifth.

In the Women’s World Trophy division, defending champions Australia stretched their lead to eight minutes over the USA, withg Spain continuing to hold onto third.

In the individual category, Australia’s Daniel Milner (KTM Enduro Racing Team) was once again impressively fast in the dusty and rocky conditions, securing a comfortable 40s victory over teammate Daniel Sanders (Husqvarna Enduro Racing Team), the duo being ranked first and second in the E3 standings.

Fellow Aussie Andrew Wilksch (Sherco) is currently 14th in E3, as Thomas Mason (KTM) shifted to 16th. Compatriot Josh Strang (Husqvarna) has moved to fifth in the overall E2 standings, as Fraser Higlett (Husqvarna Enduro Racing Team) holds onto seventh in E1. Lyndon Snodgrass (KTM Enduro Racing Team) was ruled out of the competition on day two.

Tayla Jones (Husqvarna) maintains her lead in the individual Women’s class, followed by Jessica Gardiner (Yamaha) and Mackenzie Tricker (KTM) in fourth and eighth respectively.

Detailed results


Source: MotoOnline.com.au

Motorcycle News, News

Indian on Warpath vis-a-vis AFT Rule Change

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Indian is down with two of the rules put in place by American Flat Track in an effort to even up the playing field for the 2019 season, but it’s not happy at all with the third one, which will allow production engines to go from 38mm throttle bodies to 40mm ones. Indian’s FTR750, you’ll recall, is the only bike running the series that’s not based on a production motorcycle. It says those 2mm make a big difference, especially at the predominant Miles. Details below.

———————————————————————————————————–

Indian Motorcycle Racing Statement Regarding American Flat Track:

Rule Changes for 2019 Season

 MINNEAPOLIS, Nov. 15, 2018 – American Flat Track recently communicated a series of rule changes for 2019, designed to increase the competitive balance in the sport.  Two of the three rule changes single out Indian Motorcycle and the FTR750, and one of the three unfairly handicaps Indian Motorcycle’s ability to compete.


Indian Motorcycle developed a superior purpose-built race bike that conforms to AFT’s rules and regulations.  While our efforts over the past two years produced unparalleled success on the track, the result has also been a competitive imbalance that ultimately does not benefit the sport. For this reason, we are fully supportive of efforts by AFT to restore competitive balance. However, we believe the changes for 2019 do not create the competitive balance we all desire and instead put Indian Motorcycle Racing at a competitive disadvantage.

First is the change from Sunoco Supreme fuel to Sunoco GTX-260 fuel, a lower octane, lead-free fuel that will force reductions in compression ratios and, ultimately, reduced power output. This is something that affects all teams equally, and Indian Motorcycle is aligned with this change.

Second is the allowance of street-legal production engines up to 900cc.  The change to allow smaller displacement engines to increase bore and stroke past 750cc to 900cc will produce broader torque curves and higher peak power where desired, which is a significant advantage. “Production” engines are also allowed to change out all internal components including crankshafts, cams, pistons, connecting rods, and valves. Although this change puts Indian Motorcycle at a disadvantage, we support this as part of AFT’s effort to create competitive balance.

We take serious issue with the third rule change – allowing production engines to increase from 38mm throttle bodies to 40mm. This rule excludes Indian Motorcycle Racing, because the Scout FTR750 is not a street legal production motorcycle. Not only does the rule singularly handicap Indian Motorcycle, it represents a significant impairment of our ability to compete on an equal level with every other team in the paddock, specifically on mile tracks.

We have done extensive testing in this area, and our results have shown that 40mm throttle bodies produce 20% to 22% more air flow than the 38mm throttle body. In previous years, larger throttle bodies have been allowed, but limited specifically to larger production motors. This will be the first time that smaller, lighter production motors, similar in dimension and weight to the FTR750, will be able to increase throttle body sizes, creating a significant advantage over larger, heavier motors, let alone over the FTR750, for which this allowance does not apply.  This is extremely significant on mile tracks where the increased air intake is maximized over the longer straights. Considering that the mile tracks are the predominant racing format in the series, this puts us at a drastic disadvantage and is detrimental to our ability to fairly compete at mile tracks.

It is critical to us that American Flat Track fans understand how these changes exclusively impair Indian Motorcycle Racing.  Despite these changes, we will attack 2019 with the same competitive focus and determination that resulted in back-to-back championships over the past two years.

The post Indian on Warpath vis-a-vis AFT Rule Change appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

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Öhlins Sold to Tenneco

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Suspension manufacturer Öhlins Racing AB has been sold to American Fortune 500 company Tenneco. Öhlins founder Kenth Öhlin (pictured left below with Tenneco co-CEO Brian Kesseler) agreed to sell Tenneco a majority share in the Swedish company, hereby making it a subsidiary of the Illinois-based automotive component manufacturer.

Öhlin, who founded Öhlins in 1976, will continue to hold a minority interest in the company. According to Tenneco, the deal is valued at $160 million and will close in the first quarter of 2019 (pending regulatory approval and closing conditions). Continue reading below for the official statements from both companies.

Öhlins Press Release:

Kenth Öhlins Sells Öhlins Racing

Kenth Öhlin today announced an agreement to sell a majority share in Öhlins Racing AB to Tenneco Inc. Öhlins will become a subsidiary of Tenneco, joining one of the largest global multi-line, multi-brand OEM and aftermarket companies in the world.

Öhlins Racing has been an integral part of the motorsport, motorcycle and automotive industry since 1976, when Kenth Öhlin founded the company and created his first legendary motocross shock. Since then, Öhlins have been setting global industry standards by offering state-of-the-art suspension technology to racing teams, OEM partners and aftermarket. With distribution in 50 countries and manufacturing facilities in Europe and Asia, Öhlins has managed to combine global reach with world class industry knowledge.

With the acquisition of Öhlins, Tenneco will enhance their position as leading global designers, manufacturers and distributors of ride performance products and technologies. Öhlins will be a subsidiary of Tenneco and keep both its strong brand and team. Kenth Öhlin will continue to be part of Öhlins and provide continuity in strategic and technological development. He will retain a minority interest in the company and serve on the board of Öhlins.

Kenth Öhlin comments “Together, Öhlins and Tenneco will be a very strong constellation. After considering the strengths of both companies, I made the hardest decision of my life — to sell my life’s work. I am absolutely convinced that we are going to develop very positively in the future, and that Öhlins will benefit from the opportunities that will now arise due to Tenneco’s entrance.”

Öhlins’ strong position as a technology company with high-end suspension for motorcycle, automotive and mountain bike will complement and further strengthen Tenneco’s advanced ride performance portfolio.

Brian Kesseler, co-CEO of Tenneco, comments “Öhlins’ technology team will allow us to rapidly grow our premium product offerings for current and future customers, as well as help us win a larger share of business in developing mobility markets.”

Henrik Johansson, CEO of Öhlins, comments “Tenneco will help grow our business on a global scale. Tenneco and Öhlins have been working together for 20 years, delivering outstanding products for the intelligent suspension market. This is the beginning of something even bigger.”

The acquisition is expected to close in early 2019, subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions.

Tenneco Press release

TENNECO SIGNS DEFINITIVE AGREEMENT TO ACQUIRE ÖHLINS RACING A.B

Addition of technology company enables Tenneco to further capitalize on secular trends in intelligent suspension, autonomous driving and mobility

Lake Forest, Illinois, November 15, 2018 – Tenneco Inc. (NYSE: TEN) announced today that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Öhlins Racing A.B. (“Öhlins”), a Swedish technology company that develops premium suspension systems and components for the automotive and motorsport industries.

“Tenneco’s 20 year relationship with Öhlins has delivered world class products in the intelligent suspension market and provides a strategic entry into advanced performance communities with premium branded products and proprietary Continuously Controlled Electronic Suspension Valve (CES) technology.” said Brian Kesseler, co-CEO, Tenneco. “Öhlins’ technology team will allow us to rapidly grow our product offerings for current and future customers, as well as help us win a larger share of business in developing mobility markets. I am delighted to welcome the Öhlins team as an important part of our new Aftermarket and Ride Performance company.”

The addition of Öhlins will accelerate the development of advanced original equipment (OE) intelligent suspension solutions, while also fast-tracking time to market. It will also enhance Tenneco’s portfolio in broader mobility markets with the addition of Öhlins’ range of premium OE and aftermarket automotive and motorsports performance products.

Founder Kenth Öhlin will retain a minority interest in Öhlins and partner with Tenneco to provide continuity in his strategic and technological vision. He stated: “I am proud of the Öhlins team and all we have accomplished over the last 43 years. We are excited to continue to deliver innovative technologies that can accelerate growth with the full strength and resources of Tenneco behind us.”

The acquisition is expected to close in the first quarter of 2019, subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. Total consideration for this acquisition is approximately $160 million, which was contemplated in the leverage targets provided in April 2018 as part of the Federal-Mogul acquisition announcement.

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2020 Suzuki Katana Makes Its North American Debut at Long Beach IMS

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Peep the 2020 Suzuki Katana in all its glory at the Long Beach International Motorcycle Show. 

Begin Press Release: 

Suzuki to Kick-Off IMS Tour with North American Debut of the KATANA

The Icon Returns at Long Beach along with Suzuki’s Full 2019 Model Lineup

Brea, CA (November 15, 2018) – As one of the original exhibiting partners of the Progressive International Motorcycle Shows (IMS), Suzuki Motor of America (SMAI) is excited to return for all seven stops of the show’s 30th consecutive year, beginning with an exciting North American debut of its stunning KATANA in Long Beach this weekend. Reflecting its ongoing commitment to fine craftsmanship and performance, the icon will return embracing its strong company heritage and rich Japanese culture. Join the eruption with Suzuki at the Long Beach Convention Center on Friday, November 16th at 5:30 p.m., and experience the KATANA legacy, unfold.

Consumers and industry enthusiasts will have the first opportunity to get a close look at the 2020 KATANA and the rest of the Suzuki’s 2019 lineup of Motorcycles, ATVs, and Scooters every day during the Long Beach show and the entire IMS tour. Other display standouts include MotoGP racer Alex Rins’ Team Suzuki ECSTAR GSX-RR and its street-going cousins, the GSX-R1000R and GSX-R1000X. Learn how the “King of Sportbikes” continues to own the racetrack and the street by taking a technical look at the detailed GSX-R1000 engine cutout.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in a quick survey at the booth regarding market consideration for the GSX-R150, which will be on display along with a race-kitted version. The GSX-R150 is the smallest displacement version of the legendary line of GSX-R sport bikes. As a reward, survey participants will receive a $250 discount coupon to use when purchasing any 2015–2018 200cc+ Suzuki motorcycle or ATV.

Suzuki will also have the new café’ racer SV650X, the adventure and tour-ready V-Strom’s, the new kid-friendly DR-Z50, and many other models on display for the entire Long Beach show and through the rest of the IMS show tour. Use promo code “SUZ19” to get $3 off 1-day tickets purchased online.

Consumers can learn more about Suzuki’s full 2019 Motorcycle, ATV, and Scooter lineup by visiting Suzuki’s Full Line website. The Press can learn more about Suzuki products and media support by contacting a Suzuki PR representative.

The post 2020 Suzuki Katana Makes Its North American Debut at Long Beach IMS appeared first on Motorcycle.com News.

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2019 BMW F750GS First Ride Review

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There’s more to adventure-touring than just manhandling a 700-pound juggernaut down Jeep trails and rocky roads. There are lots of paved highways in between the dirt, and that’s exactly where the new 2019 BMW F750GS is designed to do its best work. The counterpart F850GS is aimed at the off-road market and we will have a review on that bike next.

Even though the F750GS is an ADV bike at heart, the cast aluminum wheels, shiny bodywork, lower seat height, and street-biased tires mean it leans toward the street. In fact, the 750 is designed for new ADV riders who plan to ride mostly on the street and work their way into the dirt…maybe. It has lower suspension, a detuned 77-hp engine, and lower bars compared to the 850, making it better for riders who intend to do most of their riding on paved roads. This motorcycle is just as much of a stepping stone for new motorcycle buyers looking to tiptoe into the ADV scene as it is an entry-level streetbike for folks who are looking to ease into the BMW experience.

We had a chance to ride the middleweight GS through the gorgeous valleys of Gateway, Colorado, and discovered this Beemer can do just about anything you’d expect from an adventure bike.

As the group rolled out aboard the F750 in the brisk morning, there was a chill to the wind and a nip to the air. Our afternoon would consist of riding along curvy highways that snake through fields of flowing grass, dotted by gray rocks with groves of trees whose leaves were turning a golden yellow. We had quite a bit of dirt road to look forward to as well, so it was destined to be a great day riding among the ambiance of autumn.

As the miles piled up on the tripmeter on the new TFT dash, it became obvious the 750 is a capable motorcycle to go exploring on. The seat is soft and only 32.1 inches off the ground, the electronically adjustable suspension works well, and the riding position is comfortable. At 5-foot-8, I found it easy to touch the ground, and since the bike weighs just under 500 pounds, that’s a good thing.

Another good thing is there are plenty of options available to tailor the bike to meet your needs. Adjustable footpegs, different-height seat options, a suspension lowering kit, a number of luggage configurations, crash bars, hand guards, GPS, and the various performance packages all allow you to build the bike that suits you.

My test unit was equipped with the $3,000 Dynamic package that offers ESA, Bridgestone tires, TFT dash, TC, ABS, and hand guards. It has switchable Rain, Road, and Dynamic mode settings which bring an additional level of safety to rain riding, long-range comfort, or sporty fun. Without a wet surface to play on it was tough to feel anything but a reduction in power from Rain mode but you could tell the bike feels more peppy in Dynamic than Sport.

When we arrived at the dirt road portion of our ride I was pleased to find the route was a challenge. On hardpack the 750 is great. It offers predictable handling, and the large 19-inch front tire rolls over most of the obstacles without issue. The 17-inch rear wheel and Battlax Adventure tires provide decent traction, but the rear brake pedal is hard to find sometimes when you are zoning out on the scenery.

The bars of the 750 are low and swept back, which makes it necessary to crouch down a bit when standing up through bumpy rocks and therefore takes some getting used to. Yet when riding in the seated position it is quite comfortable. Make no mistake: This is a GS at its core, so it doesn’t shy away from the fact that it’s a multi-purpose motorcycle. So it handles well on dirt roads too. The 750 will take you anywhere you want to go and that was the plan from its inception.

The experience begins with the ultra-smooth 853cc parallel-twin engine that produces enough power to zip through traffic or canyons. It is no S1000RR, but it is quick. Power delivery is linear, so it won’t catch you out in tricky conditions. You’ll notice the displacement doesn’t jive with the nomenclature though… That’s because this engine has different cams and is an electronically detuned version that is otherwise identical to the F850GS; the 750 label is there just to remind you of its place in the pecking order.

Anyway, the F750GS is a nice-looking motorcycle. Its GS heritage shines through thanks to the pointed beak, angular lines of the bodywork, and relocated fuel tank. In an effort to increase range, the tank was relocated from beneath the seat (as it was on the previous-generation F800GS series) and is now a 4-gallon unit resting between your legs.

We saw an indicated 45 mpg during this spirited ride, which would equate to a roughly 180-mile range. When you do get to reserve, the TFT starts a miles-to-empty countdown that is real handy when you are a ways from the nearest gas station. BMW claims it can reach 57 mpg, which would mean an even better 228-mile range if you aren’t ham-fisted on the gas. Either way you look at it, a 200-mile stint in the saddle is right about the limit for most riders anyway.

Sure, this is a streetbike first and foremost, but the 2019 F750GS ($10,395) is a rather capable adventure bike. It is perfect for street duty off the showroom floor but our ride proved it is more limited by the tire selection than anything else when you go off road. If you are intrigued with the ADV life or if you’re looking for a new BMW motorcycle for your next purchase, then be advised that the 2019 F750GS is at home anywhere from short commutes to extended tours. Plus, it has off-road potential, and if you are lucky enough to swing a leg over one, expect to arrive at your destination in style with a smile on your face because this bike is fun to ride.

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com