Tag Archives: Yamaha News

GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK YZF-R1M machines unveiled at Misano

2024 GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team


The GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team have launched their latest Yamaha R1 machines ahead of the 2024 FIM Superbike World Championship campaign, alongside the grand opening of the new GRT GRT Pro Shop at the Misano World circuit.

2024 GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team unveiling
2024 GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team unveiling

Riders Remy Gardner and Dominique Aegerter enjoyed a positive WorldSBK debut in 2023, finishing the season on a high. Gardner progressed a lot throughout the 2023 season reaching also a remarkable first row in Most; in the season finale, and close to a career-first WorldSBK podium by crossing the line in fourth just a few tenths off the rostrum places.

2024 GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team
2024 GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team
Remy Gardner – GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK

“We had a positive debut season, we kept progressing each round and understanding each other. I am confident we could have a strong 2024 together, we also had some productive test sessions throughout the winter. The goal is to stay regularly in the front places and improving every round, with the target of enjoying my career-first WorldSBK podium.”

Remy Gardner - GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK
Remy Gardner – GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK

Aegerter clinched two podiums in the final round, adding three front row qualifying performances to his tally in the meantime, including a stunning qualifier in his first race in Phillip Island.

Dominique Aegerter – GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK

“I cannot wait to begin the 2024 season! Unfortunately I was not able to take part at the test we had in January as I’m still recovering from the viral infection, but I am keen to enjoy the first round in Phillip Island. Last year we finished the Championship on a high note, the target is to keep improving and fight consistently for the front positions. I would like to be on the podium once again during the season and try to win my first WorldSBK race.”

Dominique Aegerter - GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK
Dominique Aegerter – GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK

The GYTR GRT Yamaha duo is eager to pick up where they left off, with their target to keep improving at each round to allow them to fight at the front regularly during the season.

The team is delighted to welcome back several key partners, as well as introducing new ones for the 2024 campaign, who will be significant in the squad’s successes.

2024 GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team
2024 GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team
Filippo Conti – GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team Principal

“We are all excited for a thrilling 2024 WorldSBK Season. Having Dominique and Remy with us for another season means we can keep progressing and pick up where we left off last season. Both had a positive rookie season, finishing the season on a very high, which give us a lot of confidence for the upcoming Championship, where we would like to fight regularly for the front places. I want to thank Yamaha for the great support they give us every year. In the same way, I’m keen to thank all the partners who will support us once again, as well as I’m delighted to welcome the new ones who will be crucial to the team’s results.”

Remy Gardner - GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK
Remy Gardner – GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK

GYTR GRT Yamaha will join the rest of the WorldSBK competitors for one final pre-season test at the Phillip Island Circuit (19-20 February) before the season’s first races get underway at the picturesque venue between 23-25 February.

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

Source: MCNews.com.au

Yamaha officially launch 2024 MotoGP campaign

2024 Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP


Fabio Quartararo and Álex Rins spearhead the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team in 2024, and here we present you the 2024 YZR-M1, their riders and team members ahead of the Sepang Test getting underway in Malaysia later today.

2024 Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP
2024 Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP

The colour scheme of the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP YZR-M1, the pit box, the riders’ leathers, and the team clothing are largely unchanged for the new season. The most notable changes were the livery featuring some new sponsors and Yamaha’s updates on the personnel and organisational front.

Fabio Quartararo remains a fan favourite and is determined to come back fighting to make 2024 his year. This season he is joined by new team-mate Álex Rins, who brings a ton of fresh technical and riding expertise to the team.

Fabio Quartararo – Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Rider

“It’s the start of the new season – that’s always exciting! Everyone is starting from zero points again, and I know both the team and I are super motivated to get as much work done as possible during the Sepang Test. A good start to 2024 – even if it’s just preseason tests – can result in a big advantage later on. So, as always, we will put everything we have into every day, every session, every run, and every lap. I know Yamaha has been working hard behind the scenes, so I think that if we keep pushing ourselves to the limit in all aspects, we should be able to have a great year together. I want to fight at the front, and I want to greet my fans from the top step of the podium again!”

Fabio Quartararo - Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Rider
Fabio Quartararo – Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Rider
Álex Rins – Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Rider

“I already had my first taste of the M1 working with the Yamaha team at the Valencia Test and the Shakedown Test, but today’s 2024 MEYM Season Launch event makes me feel excited again as if it’s the first day. We had a good first run at the test in Valencia, so I was quite happy with that, and I can’t wait to continue the work here in Sepang tomorrow. I have many things to try, but I’m feeling confident. The bike seems easy to adapt to, so I think I will be able to make some further steps at the Sepang Test. I have been working a lot on my physical fitness to arrive here at the best possible level, and now all I want to do is start riding again!”

Álex Rins - Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Rider
Álex Rins – Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Rider

Besides Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP’s new rider line-up, the Yamaha management also underwent some changes for 2024. General Manager Motor Sports Development Division of Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. Takahiro Sumi will now be working closely with new Yamaha YZR-M1 Project Leader Kazuhiro Masuda and new Yamaha Factory Racing Technical Director Massimo Bartolini.

Álex Rins' R1M - Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Rider
Álex Rins’ R1M – Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Rider
Takahiro Sumi – Yamaha Motor Sports Development GM

“As many will know, YMC’s Motor Sports Development Division’s work towards renewed success in 2024 started already before the 2023 season ended. Yamaha’s main goal is and will always be to bring Kando to its customers and fans. It therefore goes without saying that the company is fully dedicated to the cause of bringing the MotoGP trophy back to Yamaha with our new global team power. Based on the riders’ feedback, we have been working tirelessly to find new ways to improve our bike, and we know that Fabio and Álex as well as test rider Cal are keen to put the new 2024-spec bike to the test. It will be a long season again, but we are ready to put in the work and to compete head-on.”

Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team Principal & Yamaha Motor Racing Managing Director Lin Jarvis and Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team Director Massimo Meregalli remain at the helm of the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP equipe. The Yamaha Factory Racing MotoGP Test Team and its rider Cal Crutchlow will be led by Kazutoshi Seki in 2024.

Fabio Quartararo's R1M - Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Rider
Fabio Quartararo’s R1M – Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Rider
Lin Jarvis – Yamaha Motor Racing MD

“Last year was a tough season, but we have regrouped, restructured our organisation, and now we are ready to make a comeback. Having made significant changes to our MotoGP project team and with a new rider line-up, the team feel refreshed and ready to tackle the 2024 season. The Yamaha engineers have been working around the clock during the ‘winter break’ and kept developing the bike. So, though the livery remains the same for this season, there is much more to the 2024-spec M1 than is apparent at first glance. Another constant, which we are really grateful for, is the strong relationship with our official sponsors and partners. We are entering our twelfth year with Monster Energy Company as our sponsor and the sixth season with them as title sponsor. We are thankful to them and to our other official team sponsors, partners, and suppliers, with many of whom we have had long-term partnerships, for showing their full support to our project and our mission to excel in the super innovative, technically and physically challenging sport of MotoGP racing. At the start of the 2024 championship, we face 3 preseason tests followed by a 21-event calendar with 42 individual races, including the Sprints and main Races. In addition to that we have numerous IRTA tests throughout the season as well as many private tests where we can now use our GP riders due to the application of the new Concession rules for 2024. So, it will be a long and intense season, where both performance and endurance will count to achieve championship success. Having already started with the ‘Shakedown Test’, we will now begin the real season with the Official Sepang IRTA Test, which is where we can evaluate our performance versus our competitors. I believe this year will be one of the most exciting MotoGP seasons in recent times, and I hope the fans all around the world will enjoy the battles over the next 10 months. Let’s get started!”

2024 Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Gallery

Source: MCNews.com.au

Yamaha experimenting with much more advanced rider safety aids

Advanced Motorcycle Stabilisation Assist System Last year, Yamaha Motor announced its Jin-Ki Kanno x Jin-Ki Anzen Safety Vision, which aims to create a world free of accidents together with their customers. Yamaha’s research suggests that accidents involving motorcycles have been attributed primarily to recognition errors (10%), decision errors (17%), and operation errors (5%) on the […]

The post Yamaha experimenting with much more advanced rider safety aids appeared first on MCNews.

Source: MCNews.com.au

Quartararo and Morbidelli eager to get on track in Sepang

Sepang Test 2023

Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP‘s Fabio Quartararo and Franco Morbidelli only have one sleep to go before they get back aboard their YZR-M1s for the first official IRTA MotoGP testing day of 2023.

They plan to work tirelessly during the Official MotoGP Sepang Test, held from 10-12 February.

Massimo Meregalli – Team Director

It’s been a longer winter break than usual. I think I can speak for everyone when I say we’re very happy to be back at the track. We have a good atmosphere in the garage after the Shakedown Test. It was a shame that rain cost us some time, so we hope for fully dry days during the upcoming test to get through all the testing items, even though the weather forecasts for this weekend are not great.

Test rider Cal Crutchlow put in plenty of laps during the shakedown test earlier this week

“I’m impressed with the proactive work done by the Yamaha engineers over the winter: we have many things to evaluate here. The number of items they prepared for this test is really huge! We have an updated chassis, aerodynamics, rear arm, and engine.

“I expect Friday morning to be used for the riders to get back up to speed after three months of no riding. After that, they have an intense working plan. It will be difficult to finish it all, considering the amount of time and tyres available to us as well as the weather conditions playing a key part. But we will try to get as much done as possible to start 2023 off in the right way.”

Quartararo hasn‘t been idling about during the off season. Before travelling to the Sepang International Circuit he has been keeping busy with promotional activities as well as around-the-clock training sessions. The Frenchman is feeling top fit and is determined to make 2023 his year. The positive Sepang Shakedown Test results and the feedback from Cal Crutchlow, the Yamaha Factory Racing MotoGP Test Team rider, have put El Diablo in a competitive mindset straight away.

Fabio Quartararo

The wait is over! This winter break was very long, but in a way that was good for me because it gave me time to train and prepare for the upcoming season. It will be a long one – we know this. We need to put in good work during this test to make sure we are ready for it. I‘m excited to try the 2023 spec and to see what progress we made. I arrived in Sepang a bit earlier and spent some time at the track during the Shakedown Test. I heard and saw positive things, so I can‘t wait to try it for myself.”

Fabio Quartararo was an interested observer at Sepang for the Shakedown earlier this week

Morbidelli arrives in Malaysia happy to be reunited with his crew and his bike. He kept busy training during the winter break, both on and off track, to make sure he would be able to hit the ground running in the first test of 2023. Fully aware of the importance of the upcoming three track days and the high quantity of testing items on his list, Franco is keen to get to work. Besides working on his feeling with the new YZR-M1 bike, he will be putting in a high number of laps to collect as much data as possible for the Yamaha engineers.

Franco Morbidelli

We are finally back together as a crew. This test is a fresh start, and you can feel the excitement. The Shakedown Test went well, so there is a positive atmosphere in our team. During the upcoming test I aim to show a good performance level. We improved towards the end of 2022, and now it‘s time to build onto that and make further steps. We have a lot of things to test in the next three days. We will work hard, as always, to make a good start to the 2023 pre-season.

Source: MCNews.com.au

Yamaha producing a hydrogen fuelled 450 hp V8 for Toyota

Hydrogen to power a Yamaha tuned V8 symphony

Yamaha have a long history of lending their engine building know-how to car makers going back more than four decades with the release of the Toyota 2000GT in 1967.  That partnership continued with Yamaha supplying engines for various Lexus and Toyota models right up to the present day. Yamaha have also supplied engines to Ford and Volvo and in the 90s also provided Formula One engines to the likes of Brabham, Tyrrell, Jordan and Arrows.

Now Yamaha has been commissioned by Toyota to develop a 5.0-litre V8 fuelled entirely by hydrogen. In Japan, Toyota and other automotive-related companies are about to begin a collaborative effort to expand the range of fuel options for internal combustion engines.

Kawasaki Heavy Industries and Yamaha Motor have also started considerations toward the joint development of a hydrogen engine for possible use in two-wheeled vehicles. Going forward, they are planned to be joined by Honda Motor Co., Ltd. and Suzuki Motor Corporation, and the four companies intend to jointly explore the possibility of achieving carbon neutrality through the use of internal combustion engines in two-wheeled vehicles. To maintain a distinct line between cooperation and competition, they intend to proceed after establishing a framework that will clearly define areas of cooperation and collaborative research.

Toyota is now collaborating with Fukuoka City, which is to supply Toyota hydrogen derived from sewage biogas. Since 2015 and as a world first, Fukuoka City has been taking on the challenge of producing and commercialising hydrogen from domestic wastewater sewage. The city is producing non-CO2-increasing green hydrogen from biogas generated during sewage treatment at the Fukuoka City Chubu Water Treatment Center and has a daily hydrogen production capacity of 3,300 Nm3 (which is roughly equivalent to the daily amount of hydrogen used by 60 units of the Toyota Mirai hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle, based on a per-unit daily hydrogen requirement of 55 Nm3). The city is also conducting verification tests with corporate partners, such as supplying green hydrogen to fuel cell-powered trucks, motorcycles, and power supply vehicles.

Yamaha began developing a hydrogen engine for automobiles about five years ago. Takeshi Yamada from the Technical Research & Development Center’s Automotive Development Section is a member of the hydrogen engine development team and he began to sense the depth of potential in the powerplant as the project progressed.

I started to see that engines using only hydrogen for fuel actually had very fun, easy-to-use performance characteristics,” Yamada explains. “Hydrogen engines have an innately friendly feel that makes them easy to use even without resorting to electronic driving aids. Everyone who came to test-drive the prototype car would start off somewhat skeptical, but emerged from the car with a big smile on their face at the end. As I watched this, I started to believe that there is actually enormous potential in the characteristics unique to hydrogen engines instead of simply treating it as a substitute for gasoline.”

In November last year, the five companies of Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Subaru Corporation, Toyota Motor Corporation, Mazda Motor Corporation, and Yamaha Motor jointly announced they would begin discussions for conducting collaborative research into possible avenues for expanding the range of fuel options for internal combustion engines in the quest for carbon neutrality.

And at the announcement venue, the V8 hydrogen engine shown above, which was developed by Yamaha for Toyota, was unveiled to the public. The unit is based on the 5.0-litre engine in the Lexus RC F luxury sport coupe, with modifications made to the injectors, cylinder heads, intake manifold, and more, and delivers up to 450 hp at 6,800 rpm and a maximum 540 Nm of torque of at 3,600 rpm.

Yamaha Motor President Yoshihiro Hidaka

We are working toward achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, at the same time, ‘Motor’ is in our company name and we accordingly have a strong passion for and level of commitment to the internal combustion engine.  Hydrogen engines house the potential to be carbon-neutral while keeping our passion for the internal combustion engine alive at the same time. Teaming up with companies with different corporate cultures and areas of expertise as well as growing the number of partners we have is how we want to lead the way into the future.”

Another thing that Yamada and the team value in the development process is Kanno Seino, meaning sensual or exhilarating performance. One example is the harmonic high-frequency exhaust note produced by the engine’s 8-into-1 exhaust manifold. “This is a challenge we can sink our teeth into as engineers and I personally want to pursue not just performance but also a new allure for the internal combustion engine that the world has yet to see,” declares Yamada.

What he and his fellow engineers believe in is the potential of a fully hydrogen-powered engine. Working together with his gradually expanding network of partners, Yamada undoubtedly feels they have one hand on the door to unlocking that potential.

Source: MCNews.com.au

New up-spec Yamaha Ténéré 700 World Raid in production – Farkled from factory!

Yamaha Ténéré 700 World Raid

This third member of the Ténéré 700 family is euipped to go further than any previous Ténéré, and featuring up-spec’ longer travel suspension, improved ergonomics, rally-inspired styling and multi-mode instruments with incoming call and text message notifications, the Ténéré 700 World Raid will no doubt be a huge hit with Aussie adventurers.  Aussie enthusiasts will have to wait until the first quarter of 2023 to get out and about adventuring on one.

Yamaha Ténéré 700 World Raid is farkled from the factory!

Ténéré 700 World Raid Key Features

  • 23 litre capacity dual side-mounted fuel tanks
  • Flat Rally inspired two-piece seat
  • 5” colour TFT meter with mobile notification connectivity
  • USB type A3-mode switchable ABS
  • High specification 43 mm KYB front forks, 230 mm travel
  • Öhlins adjustable steering damper
  • Aluminium piggyback rear shock, 220 mm wheel travel
  • High windscreen, easy to remove side deflectors and LED flashers
  • Fully new cockpit area and new front cowling
  • New larger rider footrests with easy-to-remove rubber inserts
  • 3-piece aluminium engine guard
  • New aluminium die-cast engine support
  • New radiator grille
Yamaha Ténéré 700 World Raid

Ténéré 700 World Raid / Ténéré 700 / Ténéré Rally Edition Shared Features

  • Quad LED headlights, LED taillight
  • Position adjustable (5 mm) front mudguard
  • 282 mm dual wave front discs, Brembo calipers, ABS
  • 245 mm rear wave disc, Brembo caliper, ABS
  • High tensile steel tubular backbone/double cradle frame
  • Gravity cast aluminium swingarm
  • 36-spoke lightweight aluminium wheels
  • Tapered aluminium handlebars
  • Pirelli Scorpion Rally tyres, 90/90-21 front, 150/70-18 rear
  • High-torque EU5 CP2 engine
  • Air cleaner box with forward facing intake duct

Yamaha Ténéré 700 World Raid

New 23-litre dual side-mounted fuel tanks are designed to bring peace of mind on the longest trip and eliminate the range anxiety that every rider has experienced when the reserve light starts to flash. In typical usage conditions these new tanks are estimated to be able to give a range of up to 500 km, giving a higher level of autonomy.

Yamaha Ténéré 700 World Raid

The unique twin side-mounted design offers a number of significant advantages compared to simply making the tank higher and wider in order to increase its capacity. By having two separate tanks that are positioned lower,and locating the fuel pump in a lower position in one of the tanks, the bike’s centre of gravity can be kept almost the same as with the existing Ténéré 700 that has a 16-litre tank – helping to maintain agile handling despite the increased weight of a larger fuel load. The vehicle mass is further centralised, with an ideal weight distribution between front and rear.

Yamaha Ténéré 700 World Raid

An important feature of this new layout is that the highest point on the new twin side-mounted tanks is lower than the top of the tank on the Ténéré 700, reducing the height difference between the tank and seat to give a much flatter profile for increased rider mobility and easier front/rear weight shifting when riding off road.

Flatter pew

Another benefit of this dual tank design is that the movement of the fuel is limited, compared to a one big tank layout and this gives benefit especially while cornering. And finally, the Ténéré 700 World Raid’s dual side-mounted fuel tanks are not only a reminder of the bike’s desert rally heritage, but are also clear evidence of the DNA this new adventure model shares with some of Yamaha’s most successful factory race bikes.

New seat

As well as the reduced height of the new dual tank design, the Ténéré 700 World Raid also benefits from a new 890 mm high seat that gives a much flatter profile for a smoother transition between the seat and tank. This design enables the rider to move backwards and forwards with minimal effort when shifting their body weight to maintain control on rough terrain, and the new ergonomics are suited to both sit down and stand up riding positions.

The seat’s two-piece design allows for the easy removal of the rear section to enable the fitment of accessories such as a rack or luggage. The seat is made from two different kinds of leather, with a high grip zone in the centre and a smoother zone that enables freedom of movement while riding.

Yamaha Ténéré 700 World Raid

The new 5” colour TFT meter is linked with the bike’s Communication Control unit (CCU) which talks to the MyRide app, giving connectivity in the form of text message and incoming call notifications that are displayed on the instrument panel – and mobile battery status is displayed as soon as a connection is established.

Yamaha Ténéré 700 World Raid

This connectivity and the ability to identify any technical issues that need rectifying provide added peace of mind and reassurance to adventure riders, especially when they are taking part in long distance trips in unfamiliar territory.

Access to the relevant information is crucial on every long distance expedition, and Ténéré 700 World Raid riders can choose from three different themes on the new 5” colour TFT meter. The ‘Explorer’ screen layout features a modern digital design that provides all of the machine’s key running data in a contemporary and easy to read style. The ‘Street’ screen features a tachometer with a circular dial and needle that give a more conventional look from the analogue era, and the ‘Raid’ screen is inspired by a typical rally racing roadbook and features two independent countdown tripmeters that enable the rider to see the distance to the next waypoint. Located to the right of the dashboard area there is a USB type A socket that can power navigation systems or charge mobile devices.

Yamaha Ténéré 700 World Raid

For optimal controllability in varying riding conditions the new Ténéré 700 World Raid is equipped with three-mode ABS that can be selected when the bike is stationary, via a specific menu available in the meter, operated by the right handle switch. Mode 1 is fully on, with both wheels benefitting from ABS as required legally while riding on public roads. Mode 2 and 3 have been introduced for non-public roads riding. In detail, Mode 2 (new function developed for Ténéré 700 World Raid) is front wheel on, rear wheel off, and this is the recommended mode for terrain such as gravel tracks, where low levels of grip are likely to be experienced. Mode 3 is fully off, suitable for experienced riders who want to enjoy pure off road riding. The instrument panel shows when Mode 2 and Mode 3 are active, and the rider can return immediately to Mode 1 at any time when moving or standing still by pressing a button on the left side of the instrument panel.

Yamaha Ténéré 700 World Raid

For refined off road handling performance the suspension system on the Ténéré 700 World Raid features a number of significant upgrades. Newly designed 43 mm KYB front forks give 230 mm of wheel travel – 20 mm more than the Ténéré 700 – offering increased shock absorption potential on rough terrain. The new forks are equipped with a spring preload adjuster, in addition to the rebound and compression damping adjusters and air bleeding screw already featured on the Ténéré 700, enabling the rider to set the suspension to suit different terrain and loads.

Yamaha Ténéré 700 World Raid

For increased durability with reduced internal friction, the longer travel 43 mm front forks feature a resilient Kashima coating applied on outer tube, with a distinctive dark bronze colour, while lightweight fork internal components are used in order to minimise weight, despite the longer stroke.

Yamaha Ténéré 700 World Raid

For better controllability – particularly in off road riding situations – an Öhlins steering damper is fitted as standard equipment. Mounting position is close to the top triple clamp, allowing the rider to quickly adjust the unit to his preferred levels of feel and feedback on a variety of terrain, thanks to 18 different damping settings.

Yamaha Ténéré 700 World Raid

The rear suspension has also been upgraded to match the new front forks, and features a revised linkage design with a piggyback type shock absorber with longer stroke. The rear suspension’s damping characteristics, spring rate and linkage ratios have all been optimised in order to give a comfortable ride on the road together with the ability to take some hard hits during off road exploration.

Yamaha Ténéré 700 World Raid

For consistent damping performance the new shock features an aluminium body for good heat dissipation, while the separate piggyback type oil reservoir prevents cavitation – and like the forks, the new shock gives 20 mm more wheel travel, and is fully adjustable for spring preload, as well as compression and rebound damping. A new rubber bumper has been introduced as well to increase performance on energy absorption in case of bottoming.

Yamaha Ténéré 700 World Raid

Yamaha’s iconic 689 cc liquid-cooled in-line two-cylinder engine is the driving force behind the new Ténéré 700 World Raid. Featuring a 270° crankshaft that gives it a characteristic uneven firing sequence, this ‘crossplane concept’ CP2 engine is renowned for its strong linear torque output as well as its ultra-responsive and easily-controllable performance that makes it so enjoyable and rewarding to ride at all speeds.

Yamaha Ténéré 700 World Raid

Compact dimensions and low weight make the CP2 unit ideal for the demands and requirements of adventure riding – and with a linear torque delivery providing plenty of low to mid-range pulling power, this rugged, reliable and economical engine is particularly suited to the varied on and off road terrain typically encountered by adventure riders. Already proven with the best-selling Ténéré 700, this engine is one of Yamaha’s most legendary powerplants, with more than 221,000 CP2-engined units sold since introduction.

Yamaha Ténéré 700 World Raid

The Ténéré 700 family has a new air cleaner box, specifically designed to handle the extreme off road terrain that this long distance adventure bike is built for. The Ténéré airbox has been equipped with a forward-facing intake duct that is designed to prevent ingress of dust and debris thrown up by the rear wheel.

Yamaha Ténéré 700 World Raid

For additional wind protection on long distance adventures the bike is fitted with a 15 mm taller screen with easy-to-remove side deflectors, and LED flashers are original equipment. The front panels surrounding the radiator and the interior panel around cockpit area are manufactured from tough fibre glass composite material. These are designed to be able to handle rugged off road riding.

Yamaha Ténéré 700 World Raid

The larger foot-rest area gives greater grip for the rider’s boots, and also reduces pressure on the soles when riding on extreme terrain. A larger surface area also prevents mud and sand build up, and the removable rubber inserts improve the boot/peg stability in wet conditions. The rubber inserts can be removed when things get muddy.

Yamaha Ténéré 700 World Raid

For increased protection when riding off road, the bike is fitted with a new three-piece aluminium engine guard that helps to prevent accidental damage caused by rocks, stones and any other debris. Thanks to the new suspension with longer stroke, ground clearance is 250 mm.

Yamaha Ténéré 700 World Raid

To ensure that the radiator maintains its high levels of cooling efficiency during off road riding, a new radiator grille is fitted. Featuring vertical louvres like Yamaha’s off road competition models, this new grille is designed to protect the radiator from debris thrown up by the front wheel.

Australian stocks of the new fully-featured Tenere World Raid are not expected until the first quarter of 2023 and the pricing is yet to be announced.

Source: MCNews.com.au

2022 South Australian Tenere Rallye set for June 4-5

2022 South Australian Tenere Rallye


The South Australian Tenere Rally is set for June 4 and 5, exploring the Murray and Mallee regions with an overnight stop in a Berri vineyard.

2022 South Australian Tenere Rallye dates set
2022 South Australian Tenere Rallye dates set for June 4-5

Yamaha Tenere riders can register their interest now, with the event starting and finishing in Mount Pleasant, South Australia, and covering 85% dirt roads, 10% bitumen and 5% sand, with an intermediate/advanced skill level.

Riders will cover a total of 575 km over the two days, with a 185 km range between fuel stops required.

South Australian Tenere Rallye
South Australian Tenere Rallye

South Australia Outback Motorcycle Adventures host the event, and will guide riders fully supported on mainly unsealed dirt roads. No navigation equipment or maps are required and the group is limited to 30 riders, so act now to receive a booking form to confirm your spot!

The two-day package includes Saturday night motel accommodation, with an individual room per rider with en suite. Also included are the cooked evening meal and cooked breakfast.

South Australian Tenere Rallye
South Australian Tenere Rallye

Full support with first aiders, lead and sweep rider plus 4WD and trailer, luggage and tools transport are all included making for a stress free experience where you just focus on the ride.

The cost of the 2022 South Australian Tenere Rallye event is $450 per rider, with a $100 deposit securing your spot, keeping in mind there’s only 30 spots available!

South Australian Tenere Rallye
South Australian Tenere Rallye

Email Steve at [email protected] for your booking form or call Steve on 0418 836091. You can also check out the South Australia Outback Motorcycle Adventures website at: www.saoutbackmca.com.au

Source: MCNews.com.au

YRT test on Pirelli and evaluating MoTeC for 2022

YRT commence testing for ASBK 2022

It is fair to say it has been difficult going for the Yamaha Racing Team this season in the Australian Superbike Championship.

Cru Halliday finished second in the 2020 ASBK Championship on Pirelli rubber, but it is fair to say it was a struggle for him to secure third place in 2021.

Cru Halliday and YRT tested on Pirelli rubber at The Bend on Monday

The 33-year old Yamaha stalwart managed two podium finishes during season 2022 and that third place in the championship was a somewhat surprising result considering their general lack of speed in 2021.

Cru Halliday and YRT tested on Pirelli rubber at The Bend on Monday

Cru stayed on the bike in every single race to bag points and raced to a position generally higher than he had manage to qualify.

Some have put their performance deficit down to their Dunlop rubber in 2021, others cite deficiencies with their electronics package in comparison to the latest Ducati and Honda kit, or a comparative lack of power compared to the competition. YRT are still entirely positive towards Dunlop as a brand, and mentiond to MCNews.com.au that as the season progressed they certainly got on their game and took all feedback on board, but the decision has been made to run Pirelli in 2022.

Jamie Stauffer
Jamie Stauffer – Australian Superbike Champion – 2006 & 2007

Whatever the reason, it is now almost 15 years since Yamaha last won a #1 plate in Australian Superbike. Jamie Stauffer did the double across both the Superbike and Supersport categories in 2006, and then won the Superbike Championship again in 2007, but since then it has been relatively lean period for Yamaha in the Superbike category.

ASBK Winton Jamie Stauffer Dan
Jamie Stauffer leading brother Dan at Winton in 2007 – Both were present at The Bend on the weekend, Jamie with son Max racing Supersport 300, while Dan Stauffer was swinging a few spanners for DesmoSport Ducati

There is no doubt that the Ducati Panigale V4 R has dramatically moved the performance goal-posts, as has the latest SP Fireblade and ZX-10RR to some extent, however Yamaha has dominated elsehwere across the globe with the YZF-R1. The World Superbike, British Superbike and MotoAmerica Championships this year were all won by Yamaha riders.

In Australian Superbike our motorcycles are effectively more standard than most Superstock series around the world and it is fair to say that in standard trim the YZF-R1, while as evocative as ever, and despite some recent improvements, has not moved forward at the pace of the competition. The R1 has been nipped, tucked and tweaked, but essentially it is still a six-year-old platform.

Australian Superbike rules do open up to allow a MoTeC ECU in 2022, with some functionality restricted via a controlled firmware.

After Ducati runners have recently spent 25k per bike to kit each of their machines with the WorldSBK spec’ Marelli systems, and Penrite Honda also spent significant coin in obtaining the factory level electronics, it seems unlikely that either of them will switch to the MoTeC system in 2022, as they will be allowed to continue using their current package.

Likewise the BMW teams will most likely stick with their comparatively quite affordable factory electronics kit, as the MoTeC system does not have enough inputs to cater for the shift-cam system on the M 1000 RR.

The BCperformance Kawasaki squad had a nightmare trying to get their electronics package to offer any sort of consistency this season, and there is little doubt their poor showing off the back of those problems was a factor in Kawasaki withdrawing their support.

Cru Halliday getting a feel for the latest Pirelli rubber at The Bend on Monday – Image RbMotoLens

YRT have had nothing like that level of electronic problems, their bikes have been reliable, Halliday did finish every race after all, however it does seem as though their package is essentially outdated in comparison to what both the Ducati and Honda teams are currently running. Thus they are not only evaluating the switch from Dunlop back to Pirelli here at The Bend, but in the new year are also expected to test more with a MoTeC ECU, which they had already began doing some evaluation work with this season behind the scenes. When Superbike rules were more open in a previous era, the team did run MoTeC, so there is some knowledge about the system already within the team.

YRT boss John Redding told MCNews.com.au that they would continue to ride and develop motorcycles back to back between the current system and the MoTeC ECU, and that they would race which ever proved faster. He also remarked that whatever it took to give their riders the best equipment possible, it would be done.

Arthur Sissis was in fantastic form on his Unitech Racing YZF-R1 at The Bend – Image RbMotoLens

While local privateers Arthur Sissis and Daniel Falzon were almost 10 km/h down on top speed when not in the slipstream, compared to most of the field, they did show stunning qualifying pace on the weekend at The Bend and looked on course for potential podium results if not for both suffering misfortunes on Sunday. Both were on Pirelli rubber and both are expected to be on the grid in 2022. Although, Daniel did some significant injuries in a crash on the weekend that will likely put their preparations on hold for the foreseeable future.

Daniel Falzon (right) qualified on the front row at The Bend – Image RbMotoLens

Thus obviously the R1 can still be competitive, but it does seem as though there is just a little bit missing in order to complete the package and challenge for the Superbike title.

Cru Halliday getting a feel for the latest Pirelli rubber at The Bend on Monday – Image RbMotoLens

That said, Halliday did finish second in 2020 on Pirelli, and third in 2021 on Dunlop, so they can’t be that far off. However, I think Halliday has perhaps not received as much credit as he is due for those results.

Cru Halliday on the podium at Winton early this year – Image RbMotoLens

There will also be more Yamaha Superbikes on the grid next year. The Queensland based team Jed Metcher rode for this year is going next level in 2022. The team will be rebranded under a new 727 Moto banner and expand to two riders, as 2021 Australian Supersport Champion Broc Pearson makes the step up to Superbike with the team.

Broc Pearson was testing on Pirelli rubber at The Bend on Monday – Image RbMotoLens

The new 727 Moto Team have also recruited some top flight technical staff to the team for 2022 as Paul Free, Stewart Winton and Brent Stephens will all be working hard behind the scenes to try and ensure that both Jed and Broc have the most competitive mounts possible. Jed is a proven hard charger and will step his preparations up with the team in the new year. It is going to be a big budget effort the likes of which we probably haven’t seen from a privateer squad since the Trinder brothers shook things up with their Bio-Magnetic Therapy Team almost 20 years ago.

Supersport Champ Broc Pearson moves up to Superbike in 2022 and was testing a YZF-R1 with his new team on Monday at The Bend

Young Max Stauffer will also be on a YZF-R1 in 2022. After finishing third in the Australian Supersport Championship this season, Max will step up to Superbike in 2022 on a YZF-R1 prepared by his dad Jamie with the aid of Heath Griffin and Damian Cudlin.

Veteran Anthony West may also go around again on a better prepared YZF-R1 than he had this year and youngster Luke Jhonston will hopefully also continue to make progress.

And then of course we get to the question of who will be the second rider in the official Yamaha Racing Team alongside Cru Halliday in 2022?

Mike Jones was widely tipped to take that seat at YRT after the departure of Aiden Wagner, but Mike’s choice not to receive the COVID-19 vaccination saw him not able to compete at the Bend on the weekend with DesmoSport Ducati, and thus the two-time champ was also unable to test this week alongside Cru at The Bend.

Scuttlebutt in the pits across the weekend suggested that Mike has now perhaps reconsidered that decision in the light that it would essentially make him unemployable as a racer in 2022. At the moment it seems to be a case of ‘watch this space’, but Mike is expected to test with YRT at Morgan Park this weekend and at this stage is expected to join Cru Halliday at YRT for season 2022.

Source: MCNews.com.au

Toprak Razgatlioglu Yamaha R1 WorldSBK Championship Replica

Toprak Razgatlioglu Yamaha YZF-R1 World Championship Replica


Crescent Yamaha – home of the Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK team – along with Yamaha Motor Europe have revealed a very special Limited Edition Toprak Razgatlıoğlu Yamaha R1 World Championship Replica, to celebrate his 2021 WSBK title, with only 21 to be available globally.

Toprak Razgatlioglu Yamaha YZF-R1 World Championship Replica

This YZF-R1 will be a celebration of the Turkish rider’s first World Title, along with Yamaha’s first WorldSBK Manufacturers’ Championship since 2009 and Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK’s Championship Teams’ victory, culminating in the ‘Triple Crown’.

Toprak Razgatlioglu Yamaha YZF-R1 World Championship Replica

Each of these exclusive Yamaha R1 machines will be built in the Crescent Racing PRO SHOP, using the experience and skills amassed during the last six years running the Official Yamaha WorldSBK project.

Toprak Razgatlioglu Yamaha YZF-R1 World Championship Replica

This makes for the ultimate “track-ready” WorldSBK replica R1, producing 205 bhp at the rear wheel (an increase of 20 bhp over the standard R1) with linear torque delivery via the WorldSBK-spec Akrapovic exhaust and latest GYTR race ECU, weighing under 175kg (with all fluids – a huge 26kg reduction from the standard bike).

Toprak Razgatlioglu Yamaha YZF-R1 World Championship Replica

The R1’s class-leading handling is taken to another level via this significant weight reduction and addition of the legendary Ohlins suspension components, factory-spec upper fork clamp and forged Marchesini wheels.

Toprak Razgatlioglu Yamaha YZF-R1 World Championship Replica

And while nobody can out-brake Razgatlıoğlu, the Brembo Racing system on this exclusive R1 guarantees full power, fade-free retardation at any circuit.

Toprak Razgatlioglu Yamaha YZF-R1 World Championship Replica

To fight for the WorldSBK Championship, it’s the details that matter – and the Toprak WorldSBK replica shines bright with the deepest quality paintwork, highest quality components throughout, titanium fasteners, and an attention to detail in the track-ready build which leaves no doubt that this R1 has be developed and delivered directly from the Crescent Yamaha squad.

Toprak Razgatlioglu Yamaha YZF-R1 World Championship Replica

 To order your own Toprak Razgatlıoğlu Yamaha R1 World Championship Replica you’ll need to put down a deposit quick at the following reservation form (link).

Toprak Razgatlioglu Yamaha YZF-R1 World Championship Replica

All Toprak Replica Limited Edition R1s will also include the following significant assets:

  • Unique limited edition badging and technician-signed build identification
  • Framed limited edition certificate, signed personally by Razgatlıoğlu and Team Principal Paul Denning, certifying the edition number alongside VIN number and the purchaser’s details
  • VIP hospitality passes for two people to a 2022 WorldSBK event of choice as a VIP guest of the team, with pit-box visit and the opportunity to spend time with Razgatlıoğlu
  • Personalised machine set up and one-on-one rider coaching day with Crescent Yamaha’s James Hillier OR Niall Mackenzie (UK circuit only; overseas set up and training by arrangement)
  • A personal signed piece of riding equipment, genuinely used by Razgatlıoğlu during the 2021 WorldSBK Championship campaign

Toprak Razgatlioglu Yamaha YZF-R1 World Championship Replica Gallery

Source: MCNews.com.au

Fifth annual WR250R Rally conquers a wet Cessnock

2021 Yamaha WR250R Rally


Despite an ominous weather forecast, 46 intrepid WR250R owners fronted up at Chris Watson’s Motorcycles in Cessnock for the fifth annual WR250R Rally on Friday 19 November.

The 2022 RideADV WR250R Rally was another success despite the weather

Rain was a certainty with Saturday looking bleak but Sunday even wetter – and that’s exactly how it panned out. So the aim was to pack all the fun in on day one by exploring over 360 kms of backroads between Cessnock and Nundle.

2022 RideADV WR250R Rally

The annual bLU cRU WR250R Rally organised by RideADV attracts a wide range of riders with an even wider range of setups – but all on the cult classic WR250R tuned for adventure. Oversize fuel tanks, screens, Barkbusters, big footpegs and aftermarket bars featured heavily – along with a GPS to navigate the route.

That’s not a WR!

As usual breakfast was provided by the Rally’s number one supporter and Yamaha dealer Chris Watson, which set up both riders and crew for a memorable ride up through Crawney Pass and on to Nundle’s Peel Inn where the heavens opened as soon as the sweep riders rolled in.

2022 RideADV WR250R Rally

The rain was torrential all night and heavy through Sunday which swelled the creeks and forced the Rally onto the tarmac for the return ride to Cessnock. Tackling the elements is part of the adventure and once again all the bikes and riders completed the round trip with no dramas.

2022 RideADV WR250R Rally

62-year-old Robin Bradfield from Sydney via South Africa was rewarded with a prize pack for attending all five Rallies and spoke about his passion for the event and Yamaha’s bulletproof single.

2022 RideADV WR250R Rally

He owns two WR250Rs – one of which has been inherited by his son – and the rarer WR250X motard that is used for cutting around town.“It’s such an incredible bike in so many ways,” says Robin, who was so impressed by the performance and reliability of the 250cc bikes that he purchased a Ténéré 700. “And I’m loving that too,” he adds.

2022 RideADV WR250R Rally

The next WR250R Rally is scheduled for March 2022 and is based on loop rides out of Wauchope, NSW. Once again the Rally will be organised by RideADV with support/luggage vehicle and the best sweeps in the business.

2022 RideADV WR250R Rally

Look out for a movie of the fifth annual bLU cRU WR250R Rally – coming soon!

2022 RideADV WR250R Rally
2022 RideADV WR250R Rally
2022 RideADV WR250R Rally
2022 RideADV WR250R Rally
2022 RideADV WR250R Rally

Source: MCNews.com.au