The French MotoGP race weekend at the iconic Le Mans circuit sees Alpinestars launch the ‘El Diablo 20’ Supertech R Race Replica boots in recognition of home hero Fabio Quartararo, the young Frenchman who exploded on the premier class racing scene last season and set the racing world on fire.
The French missile enjoyed an exhilarating debut in his inaugural MotoGP campaign, with the self-proclaimed ‘El Diablo’ securing four pole positions and finishing second four times on his way to the coveted ‘Rookie of the Year’ title. And he has continued that stunning performance this season, powering to his first premier class win at Jerez and adding further victories at the Grands Prix of Andalusia and Catalunya as he attempts to become the 2020 MotoGP champion.
The ‘El Diablo 20’ Limited Edition Supertech R is a fitting tribute to Fabio’s fast and smooth riding style. Featuring all the technical innovations of Alpinestars’ premium Supertech R boot, the striking flame design allows fans to enjoy one of the most iconic road racing boots worn by the fastest world champions past and present.
MotoGP and Superbike Technology for Alpinestars Customers
From its first launch, the Supertech boot immediately redefined the standards by which road racing footwear are measured – so revolutionary was its concept and construction. Today, the Supertech R represents the pinnacle of racing innovation for track and road use. Every component is meticulously engineered for high performance protection, precision and flexibility. The technology used by Alpinestars athletes in MotoGP and WSBK, MotoAmerica, BSB and all other championships where Alpinestars riders compete, derives from the company’s commitment to R&D and track testing activities with top athletes, allowing customers to enjoy the same boots for their everyday riding on the road and track.
For more information on Alpinestars products visit alpinestars.com/
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MPX230 for the Kawasaki EX400 Ninja and Z400 (18-) is a direct replacement filter designed to fit perfectly into the OEM airbox.
The air filter is one of the most important parts on your motorcycle to maintain peak performance. Manufactured in the heart of Northamptonshire, Pipercross motorcycle filters are hand-made using a two-layer multi density foam construction.
Pipercross filters provide increased airflow over a standard OEM filter which in turn offers an increase in performance while still, most importantly retaining a filtration efficiency rating of 98.9%. It is this efficiency rating of the Pipercross multi-layer foam that retains dirt particles within the filter, protecting your engine while still retaining maximum airflow.
The Pipercross multi-layer foam also offers a drastically improved dirt capacity when compared to other filter materials. As a serviceable item it also offers significant environmental benefits when compared to disposable OEM filters.
Pipercross filters are provided with a lifetime warranty for the original buyer.
MPX230 for the Suzuki GSXR1000 and GSXR1000R (2017-) is a direct replacement filter designed to fit perfectly into the OEM airbox.
The air filter is one of the most important parts on your motorcycle to maintain peak performance. Manufactured in the heart of Northamptonshire, Pipercross motorcycle filters are hand-made using a two-layer multi density foam construction.
Pipercross filters provide increased airflow over a standard OEM filter which in turn offers an increase in performance while still, most importantly retaining a filtration efficiency rating of 98.9%. It is this efficiency rating of the Pipercross multi-layer foam that retains dirt particles within the filter, protecting your engine while still retaining maximum airflow.
The Pipercross multi-layer foam also offers a drastically improved dirt capacity when compared to other filter materials. As a serviceable item it also offers significant environmental benefits when compared to disposable OEM filters.
Pipercross filters are provided with a lifetime warranty for the original buyer.
Speedo Angels, market leaders in motorcycle dashboard protection, are celebrating their fifth birthday. The company sell over 120 different styles of screen protectors, and stock standard screen protectors, as well as Nano Glass and Tempered Glass options, plus water-resistant and anti-fog wing mirror kits.
The concept of Speedo Angels was born in the summer of 2015 when Company Director Matt took delivery of a Ducati 1199 Panigale. He was soon disappointed that the TFT dashboard had several light scratches and marks. After searching online to find a screen protector to fit, Matt found that he couldn’t buy a screen protector for his bike, and after more research, discovered that there was an incredibly small range of screen protectors available for motorcycles in general. Matt quickly set about creating his own and five years on, the company fulfil around 4,000 orders a month, sending screen protectors to motorcycle owners and suppliers all over the world.
Speedo Angels have built a reputation for selling a quality product at an excellent price, with free worldwide shipping.
To celebrate their fifth birthday with a bang, Speedo Angels have teamed up with R&G to offer one lucky winner £50 worth of R&G’s new Gleam Clean products, plus one product of their choice from the Speedo Angels range. To enter, simply visit @speedoangels on Instagram and follow the instructions there.
“Dark Suit”: the perfect entry into the Ducati Scrambler 1100 PRO family with the new Dark version.
Ducati presents the new Ducati Scrambler 1100 Dark PRO, the entry model to the 1100 range of the “Land of Joy”. Made with the aim of fully transmitting some typical elements of the Ducati Scrambler brand, such as purity, essentiality and a sense of freedom, the 1100 Dark PRO model is available in Dark Stealth colour and constitutes a perfect starting point for a customization that indulges the creativity and personal taste of its owner.
The Ducati Scrambler 1100 range represents the ideal choice for those who love to travel not only in the city, but also outside urban centres, perhaps in the company of a passenger, thanks to the 1,079 cc engine characterized by a generous torque available from low revs and the 15-litre tank that allows you to tackle even the longest journeys with comfort.
The Ducati Scrambler 1100 Dark PRO has the same iconic and original design as the other two models in the range, the Ducati Scrambler 1100 PRO and Sport PRO, and stands out from its “big brothers” for its matt black colour with natural anodized aluminium parts, as well as its customization with classic style rear view mirrors.
In terms of electronics, the new entry of the “Land of Joy” is equipped – just like the other models of the 1100 PRO family – with Ducati Traction Control (DTC), specially calibrated for this model, and ABS Cornering, which guarantees maximum safety and agility in all types of turns. In addition, the three standard Riding Modes (Active, Journey and City) also help less experienced motorcyclists to find the right balance in the use of electronic components, choosing their own riding style.
The new Ducati Scrambler 1100 Dark PRO is available in all Ducati dealerships and Scrambler Camps starting from October 2020 in Europe. For more information visit the dedicated section of the Scrambler Ducati website.
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The UK’s Top Motocross riders testing the K-tech Suspension prepared KTM 125 & Husqvarna FC450.
K-tech Suspension took two motocross bikes, the KTM 125 2 Stroke and the Husqvarna FC450 4 stroke, replaced the air forks with a coil spring conversion and new damper unit…
Upgraded the WP rear shock with a bladder conversion and new damping system…throw in a K-Tech progressive linkage on the Husky…
Get the UK’s Top Motocross riders to test them at Fat Cats and see the results… easier to maintain, more adjustment and a lot more plush….fancy it?
Yamaha Niken GT – Are 3 wheels better than 2? Review by Laramoto.
The Yamaha Niken is a radically new way to travel. This review covers how that front end really feels, how easy the GT is to manoeuvre, whether the engine has enough grunt at GT weight and some pretty shots of the beach 😉
Birkenhead, UK – April 6, 2019: A lone motorcyclist passes unrepaired pothole surface damage to tarmac on a rural road
Poor or defective road surfaces, one of the major causes of motorcycle accidents, were a contributory factor in more than 500 reported road accidents. That’s according to analysis by TrackDays.co.uk, a leading track day provider, of the latest figures from the Department for Transport (DfT).
Just as alarmingly, recent research by the Asphalt Industry Alliance found that the average local authority highway maintenance funding is now 20 per cent less in real terms than in 2010, with one in five local roads now classed as structurally poor.
Dan Jones, operations manager at TrackDays.co.uk, said: “These are worrying findings for all motorists and motorcyclists in particular. Poor road surfaces, such as potholes, can present a real danger.
“While there has been a slight drop in recent years in these types of accidents, it is still not enough, especially when you consider that other independent research shows that the number of potholes being repaired in England and Wales has fallen.”
Meanwhile, further data analysed by TrackDays.co.uk from the DfT’s Reported Road Casualties Great Britain Annual Report 2019, discovered some of the other most common causes of accidents where the road environment was a factor to blame.
These included a deposit on a road, such as oil, mud or chippings, which was a contributory factor in 842 reported accidents in 2019, while inadequate or masked signs or road markings were a contributory factor in 351 reported accidents in Great Britain.
However, as autumn and winter arrives, traditionally the wettest months of the year, by far the biggest cause of accidents was slippery roads due to inclement weather, which was a contributory factor in more than 5,500 reported accidents.
Dan added: “Slippery roads cause on average more than 15 accidents a day, so we would urge all car drivers and motorcyclists to take extra care as we enter autumn and winter, normally the wettest months of the year.”
For more information about TrackDays.co.uk, whether it’s for an own vehicle track day on a motorbike or in a car, or for a driving experience in a supplied car, visit www.trackdays.co.uk.
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KTM is pleased to announce that the KTM 390 ADVENTURE, KTM 890 DUKE R and KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R join lots of other members of the KTM Street family in belonging to the current KTM Finance campaign.
Offering customers a flexible and affordable way to finance the KTM of their dreams, the offer is currently available on bikes from the learner and commuter friendly KTM 125 DUKE all the way through to the mighty KTM 1290 SUPER ADVENTURE S – machines that also have KTM POWERDEALS savings on them. With 2.9 per cent Conditional Sale deals and 4.9 per cent PCP offers, KTM Dealers have been busy getting riders on to their new 70-plate machines.
The KTM 390 ADVENTURE is for those whose restless spirit demands that they fit more adventure into their lives. With the below KTM Finance PCP example at £79.00 a month, it’s a great time to explore every road around you.
Model
390 Adventure 2020
Term
36
Monthly Payment
£79.00
Cash Price
£5,499.00
Customer Deposit
£1,186.50
Amount of Credit
£4,312.50
Interest Charges
£462.50
Optional Final Payment (GFV)
£1,933.75
Total Amount Payable
£5,964.25
Annual Mileage
5,000
Excess Mileage Charge (per mile)
14.9p
Fixed Rate of Interest
2.52% p.a
Duration of Agreement
37 months
Representative APR
4.9% APR
MCN’s Naked Bike of the Year revels in this status with KTM Finance examples offering the Super Scalpel at £119.00 per month. For this you get the ultimate mid-weight naked, a bike that turns it up to 11 in every respect – apart from the price.
Model
890 Duke R 2020
Term
36
Monthly Payment
£119.00
Cash Price
£10,399.00
Customer Deposit
£2,565.50
Amount of Credit
£7,833.50
Interest Charges
£913.00
Optional Final Payment (GFV)
£4,462.50
Total Amount Payable
£11,312.00
Annual Mileage
5,000
Excess Mileage Charge (per mile)
14.9p
Fixed Rate of Interest
2.52% p.a
Duration of Agreement
37 months
Representative APR
4.9% APR
And THE BEAST 3.0 gets in on the act – how could it not. Leaner and meaner than ever before, the KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R shows a generous spirit when it comes to joining the KTM Finance deal with examples from £179.00 per month.
Model
1290 Super Duke R 2020
Term
36
Monthly Payment
£179.00
Cash Price
£15,699.00
Customer Deposit
£3,817.50
Amount of Credit
£11,881.50
Interest Charges
£1,389.06
Optional Final Payment (GFV)
£6,826.50
Total Amount Payable
£17,088.06
Annual Mileage
5,000
Excess Mileage Charge (per mile)
14.9p
Fixed Rate of Interest
2.52% p.a
Duration of Agreement
37 months
Representative APR
4.9% APR
Customers can head to www.ktm.com to build a KTM Finance package to suit you. PCP or Condition Sale, you can alter term length, mileage and deposit figures to get a deal that’s right for you. Demo rides are available – these can be booked from testride.ktm.com. Or pop into an Authorised KTM Dealer to discuss any bike in the range, KTM Finance options and PowerParts and PowerWear to accompany your new machine.
Finance subject to status. Deposit shown may be higher than the minimum; a lower deposit will result in increased monthly payments. Terms and conditions apply. At the end of the agreement there are three options: (i) Renew: Part exchange the vehicle (ii) Retain: Pay the Optional Final payment to own the vehicle; or (iii) Return the vehicle. Further charges may be made subject to the condition or mileage of the vehicle, if the vehicle is returned at the end of the finance agreement. Applicants must be 18 or over. Guarantees/Indemnities may be required. KTM Finance RH1 1SR.
The two managing directors Ernst Prost and Günter Hiermaier celebrate their company anniversary with the German oil and additive specialist
October 2020 – They made LIQUI MOLY what it is today. Thirty years ago, Ernst Prost and Günter Hiermaier joined the German oil and additive specialist and led the company to unprecedented heights. “30 years at the same company – now, that’s really something,” says Managing Director Ernst Prost (63). “There was always something going on in our shop. And that’s why time just flew by.” Managing Director Günter Hiermaier (56) adds: “I am looking forward to many more successful years in our group of companies.”
The two men already knew each other before their time at LIQUI MOLY. At that time, Hiermaier was an apprentice of Prost. In 1990, they joined LIQUI MOLY: Prost as Sales and Marketing Manager and Hiermaier as Retail Sales Manager Germany. At that time, the GDR was just experiencing the last hours of its existence before reunification. And LIQUI MOLY itself was a very small player in the industry.
Prost and Hiermaier rolled up their sleeves and tackled the job. And not only that: Step by step, Prost bought the company from its owners of the time. Since then, the world has changed, just like LIQUI MOLY. The small player has become a global brand and sales of EUR 55 million have grown to EUR 569 million. LIQUI MOLY is now active in more than 150 countries and has developed new business fields, such as motorcycles, boats and industry, in addition to its regular automotive business. Today, the former wallflower can be seen in the Formula 1 and MotoGP. LIQUI MOLY is considered the best oil brand of all among the readers of many car magazines.
In 2018, Prost sold LIQUI MOLY to the Würth Group in order to safeguard the future of the company even after his era, but remained on board as Managing Director. Hiermaier was also appointed Managing Director at the same time.
30 years with the company – Prost and Hiermaier were not the first to achieve this at LIQUI MOLY. As a company tradition, the staff turnover is very low. 20 years with the company is not uncommon and there have already been a few 25- and 30-year service anniversaries. The record is 49 years.
“It’s really amazing how quickly time passes when you can work with so many great colleagues every day and can build something together,” says Günter Hiermaier. Ernst Prost also shows no sign of boredom or routine: “It’s still great fun.”
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The blue elephant brand strengthens its commitment to Extreme Enduro competitions; it will be present at one of the most demanding international event of the discipline as a sponsor and with tyre service on location open to all participants, now able to pre-order tyres online.
METZELER announces a three-year agreement with the organizer of the RED BULL Romaniacs, considered by enthusiasts to be one of the most demanding extreme enduro race in the world, which sees the blue elephant brand to participate to the next three editions of the famous event as Official Sponsor and Tyre Supplier.
Jonny Walker in action at 2019 RED BULL Romaniacs
This sponsorship underlines the strong commitment and enthusiasm with which METZELER continues to invest in the world of extreme racing both as a showcase of international visibility for the brand and also as a development platform for its tyre portfolio. Through the agreement, the two-wheel specialist brand will be present on site during the five days of competition withproducts from the MCE 6 Days Extreme range and with tyre service available to all participants.
METZELER will also equip all the bikes ridden by the race marshals and RED BULL Romaniacs staff who need to move swiftly around the event in order to guarantee its success.
Now in its seventeenth edition, titled Vertical Madness, RED BULL Romaniacs takes place from 27th to 31st October in the town of Sibiu and its surroundings, in Romania, and represents one of the few extreme enduro events that will take place in this difficult 2020 season. Unquestionably the most challenging and difficult extreme enduro rally of all, the five days of off-road competition are in some of the most beautiful enduro trails in the world. A total of 600 kilometres of wild nature and insurmountable obstacles that will invite all participants to fight against themselves, against the fatigue and pain they will endure, in order to obtain the coveted victory.
Jonny Walker in action at 2019 RED BULL Romaniacs
In these extreme competitions, the rider therefore needs to rely blindly on the performance of his bike and its components, including tyres, which must perform in an excellent way and in any condition, even the most unexpected ones. METZELER technological leadership and superiority, combined with the experience gained in competitions such as the World Enduro Super Series and the International Six Days of Enduro, were the ideal background to give life to the MCE 6 Days Extreme, the most performing and versatile of the FIM enduro tyres. It has now become the preferred choice of champions, being a product capable of providing an ideal balance of fundamental performance in the enduro competitions.
To face the challenges of the RED BULL Romaniacs, participants can count on site on the performance of METZELER MCE 6 Days Extreme. For the front, it is available in the sizes 90/90-21 54M and 90/100-21 57M, while for the rear riders can choose between the soft version, ideal for its durability and versatility on different types of terrain, and the super soft version, that ensures maximum grip even in the most technical passages, in the size 140/80-18 70M.
Designed to bring Maxxis’ highest quality tyres together for the same, reliably affordable price, the SuperMaxx range offers impressive performance for a comfortable price.
The SuperMaxx range is comprised of four tyres, each designed for a specific type of motorcyclist.
SuperMaxx ST
This tyre features a medium compound to offer the perfect combination of sport riding and long-distance, comfortable touring rides. Perfect for riders who enjoy getting their knee to the ground, this tyre can hold its own down a twisty back lane whilst remaining comfortable and reliable on calmer journeys and in the wet.
SuperMaxx Diamond
This is a hard compound, high mileage tyre which offers outstanding cornering performance in the wet and the dry. The intricate shoulder pattern combats the typical issues of a hard compound tyre by generating heat under lean, providing sporty, instantaneous grip to almost any apex.
SuperMaxx Touring
A medium-hard compound, comfortable tyre designed for long-distance or commuters, this tyre offers longevity, comfort and value. Offering reliable grip in the wet or dry, this tyre is prepared for most journeys in the UK and Europe.
Maxxis are currently running a prize draw to give away a free pair of SuperMaxx tyres to one lucky winner. Enter by the end of October 2020 for your chance to win at maxxis.co.uk/supermaxx-win.
September heralds the start of Autumn, but registrations of new Powered Two Wheelers (PTWs) still have a distinctly summery feel!
Overall PTW registrations climbed by11.8% over last September to 14,513units, with motorcycles up by 8.6% to 10,897 units, while 3,616 new scooters left showrooms, up23.0% on last year.
Despite the Spring lockdown, which saw very few PTWs registered during the start of traditional peak sales period, the year to date market is now just 8.3% behind the first nine months of 2019, as the gap continues to narrow.
Being inexpensive, efficient and easy to ride and park, it’s no surprise that small, commuter motorcycles and scooters lead the way, with this category 20.9%up on September last year and 6.7%ahead of the first nine months of last year.
Similarly, registrations of electrically-powered PTWs are booming, up90.3% on the month and 46.8% against the year to date 2019. Most electric PTWs benefit from the ability to be charged from a conventional three-pin plug and many feature removable batteries, meaning the vehicle doesn’t have to be near the charger and expensive charging infrastructure is not required.
Part of the appeal of small PTWs with motors of up to 11Kw or 125cc, is that they can be ridden after completing a straightforward Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) course, with no test required, making the transition to powered two wheels an exceptionally accessible option.
If the idea of the many benefits of riding a PTW appeals to you, please visit www.unlockyourfreedom.co.uk, to find out more about getting onto powered two wheels.
#unlockyourfreedom
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Two stunning new KTM ADVENTURE machines are here to let riders #AdventureHarder and faster than ever before thanks to a series of upgrades and race-inspired specs. The exclusive 2021 KTM 890 ADVENTURE R RALLY and the updated KTM 890 ADVENTURE R capitalize on KTM’s achievements in the racing environment to embolden the brand’s prestige in the Travel sector.
Two years ago, KTM funneled track experience, premium technology and race-inspired design into some of the most versatile and exciting Adventure motorcycles to roll off the brand’s production lines. As a result, the KTM 790 ADVENTURE line-up quickened the pulse in the midweight segment. For 2021 and beyond, KTM is raising heart rates further with the launch of the KTM 890 ADVENTURE R RALLY and KTM 890 ADVENTURE R machines; a pair of new bikes based on new engine platforms with more power and torque, which are ready for extreme escapes off the beaten track.
In the KTM 890 ADVENTURE R RALLY, KTM is crafting one of the most desirable Adventure offerings in any catalog thanks to a series of components and settings derived from the efforts of the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Rally team. The data recorded across landscapes around the world has been analyzed and applied directly to the form of the KTM 890 ADVENTURE R RALLY.
Top of the range WP Pro Components ensure all-action, fully adjustable suspension while the power output of the new 4-stroke, twin, DOHC, Euro5-ready engine is boosted by an ultra-light Akrapovic silencer. The KTM 890 ADVENTURE R RALLY is a top of the range, specialized motorcycle for the hardcore Adventurer with a raft of niche details like specific chassis race settings, rally footpegs (wider, lighter and mud-free), straight seat, clear screen and winglets, racing graphics along with Quickshifter+ and RALLY ride mode as standard.
KTM 890 ADVENTURE R RALLY – MODEL HIGHLIGHTS
// Limited edition, 700 units [500 INT & 200 US]
// Updated engine & electronics
// WP XPLOR Pro Components Suspension
// Akrapovic exhaust (35% lighter than standard)
// Straight racing seat (with 910 mm height)
// RALLY mode and Quickshifter+ included
// Narrow anodized wheel rims with tubes
// Clear screen winglets and racing graphics and colors
// Carbon fiber tank protectors and Rally footrests
The KTM 890 ADVENTURE R improves and accelerates the riding sensation that many came to love with the KTM 790 ADVENTURE model family. The new engine generates 105 hp and 100 Nm of torque, that is 10 hp and 12 Nm more than the bike’s smaller brother. The crankshaft features 20% more rotating mass and the overall effect of the engineering around the powerplant means a more stable and consistent output, noticeable with low RPM torque. The added mass also means added cornering stability for long distance riding on the throttle. Fully adjustable WP XPLOR suspension, overhauled ABS software and new traction control algorithms are just three aspects that mold the KTM 890 ADVENTURE R as the company’s refined definition of an exhilarating ‘allrounder’.
KTM 890 ADVENTURE R – MODEL HIGHLIGHTS
// New 889cc engine with an added 90cc of displacement
// Engine featuring 20% more rotating masses (Euro5)
// More power with 105 hp @ 8,000rpm
// Added torque with 100 Nm @ 6,500 rpm
// Reinforced clutch
// Improved ABS and Traction Control
// Reworked shifting for faster gear changes
// Updated Quickshifter+ (optional)
// New handlebar switch for Cruise Control function
// Chassis upgrades with aluminum steering head tube & lighter subframe
// Reworked front & rear brakes
// New suspension settings
Joachim Sauer, KTM Product Manager Travel:“We are lucky in at least two ways with the unveiling of our new KTM 890 ADVENTURE R RALLY and R models. Firstly, to be able to count on the high standards and excellent collaboration with our multi-title winner Rally team. It’s very cool to be able to use their work and their components and plug it straight into our production bikes. Secondly, we’re excited by the fact we’re providing a new riding experience. The increased performance in addition to the extra rotating mass are really transforming the feeling in low rpm, with the new bikes being even more stable and efficient for the long travels. I’m pretty sure KTM ADVENTURE riders will feel the difference as soon as they get on their saddles for any kind of riding adventure.”
The exclusive KTM 890 ADVENTURE R RALLY is available in limited quantities and can be pre-ordered on ktm.com.
The KTM 890 ADVENTURE R will be arriving at KTM authorized dealers from November 2020 onwards. For more info visit www.ktm.com.
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Ducati announces the entry into production of the world’s first motorcycle equipped with front and rear radar technology: the new Multistrada V4.
Production of the Multistrada V4 has begun at the Ducati factory in Borgo Panigale: the first motorcycle to use front and rear radar technology. The Multistrada V4 marks an epochal turning point for the Bologna-based motorcycle manufacturer and will be officially presented on 4 November.
For the fourth generation of the Multistrada, Ducati has developed a new, light and compact V4 engine, designed to meet the needs required for “adventouring” use without neglecting emotion and sportiness. The complete redesign made it possible to reach record-breaking maintenance intervals for the world of two wheels. All the details of this new engine will be revealed on 15 October.
Ducati brings radars on production bikes, confirming what was anticipated in 2018 ( link to the press release of April 2018 here). The adoption of these systems promises to be a true revolution for the world of two wheels, marking a new level of excellence in terms of comfort and riding assistance, especially on long motorway journeys.
Radars are advanced aid systems capable of supporting and making riding more comfortable thanks to the ability to reconstruct the reality surrounding the motorcycle. Ducati’s interest in this type of systems dates back to 2016, when the Company worked in collaboration with the Department of Electronics, Information and Bioengineering of the Politecnico di Milano to experiment with this type of systems. This first experience has confirmed the applicability of this kind of technology to vehicles on two wheels, and has pushed Ducati to the creation of a complete package of riding assistance using two radars that, within four years, has been developed and produced in close cooperation with Bosch, a top-level technology partner, and sees its first application on the new Multistrada V4.
Each radar has compact dimensions (70 x 60 x 28 mm, similar to a modern action camera) and integrates perfectly into the bike, weighing only 190 grams.
The radar positioned in the front of the vehicle controls the operation of the ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control), which by means of controlled braking and acceleration automatically adjusts the distance (selectable on four levels) from other vehicles when riding at a speed between 30 and 160 km/h. This car-derived system has been evolved and developed according to the dynamics and ergonomics of a two-wheeled vehicle. In particular, the authority of the system in terms of deceleration and acceleration has been limited in order to ensure the rider can maintain constant control of the vehicle in any situation. The system allows for more comfortable riding, especially on long motorway journeys.
Rear radar
The rear radar, on the other hand, is able to detect and report vehicles positioned in the so-called blind spot, i.e. the area not visible either directly by the rider or through the rear-view mirror. The BSD (Blind Spot Detection) system also signals the approaching from behind of vehicles at high speed.
To underline the technical-scientific value of the research project, carried out jointly by Ducati engineers and researchers and undergraduates from the Politecnico di Milano, a patent application relating to the control algorithms of this system was filed in May 2017. In June 2017, a scientific publication was presented at the IEEE – Intelligent Vehicles Symposium (IV) in Redondo Beach, California.
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Never shutting off the throttle, KTM proudly invites you to witness the next chapter in its epic ADVENTURE story. With orange bleeders across the globe always looking to ride harder than the rest, this unique attitude matched with the READY TO RACE approach means that Adventure motorcycling must have no boundaries for KTM.
On October 6th and featuring Red Bull KTM Factory Racing stars Toby Price and Sam Sunderland together with Adventure guru Chris Birch the digital premiere will let you dive into the heart and soul of the new #ADVENTUREHARDER era.
WHEN: Tuesday, October 6th, 2020 at 19:30 CEST WHERE: ktm.com
Kawasaki Motors UK has announced its wide range of autumn finance packages for the remainder of 2020. The promotions include very attractive APRs on a wide range of 2020 machines, including the Z900RS Café, W800, Ninja ZX-10R alongside the learner-legal Z125 and Ninja 125. Kawasaki is also offering complimentary panniers and interior bags on all new Versys 1000 and Ninja H2 SX machines purchased.
As the autumn months begin to take hold, Kawasaki is enticing new and existing riders alike to unlock their freedom and get on the latest machinery with a host of attractive finance packages. Available until November 30th, these packages include:
Either K.Options 0% APR HP finance over three years or 3.9% APR PCP finance agreement over three years on the Kawasaki Z900RS Café or W800.
£750 PCP deposit contribution on the Ninja ZX-10R, ZX-10R SE and ZX-10RR when purchased on a K.Options 6.3% APR Representative PCP finance agreement
Three years 0% APR HP on the 2020 Kawasaki Versys 650, Ninja 650, Z650, Vulcan S, Ninja 400, Z400, J300 and J125 models.
0% APR HP over three years on the 2019 Z125 and Ninja 125.
In addition to the finance packages, Kawasaki is also ensuring riders are able to leave nothing behind by providing complimentary panniers and interior bags on all new 2020 Versys 1000, Versys 1000 SE, Ninja H2 SX, H2 SX SE and H2 SX SE+ purchases before November 30th.
Customers can also customise their own finance packages using the Kawasaki Kalculator tool, which lets them tailor and adjust their options to find the deal that is right for them.
Credit is subject to status and is only available to UK residents aged 18 and over. These finance offers are only available through Kawasaki Finance, a trading style of Black Horse Ltd, St William House, Tresillian Terrace, Cardiff, CF10 5BH. Offer valid through participating Kawasaki dealers. Offers available for models purchased between 01/10/2020 and 30/11/2020.
Following the announcement of new season colours for the popular Vulcan S, the remaining three models in the 2021 twin-cylinder 650cc range have been unveiled.
Each a standout bike in its class, Kawasaki’s venerable water-cooled, cassette gearbox equipped 650 twin engine once again powers new iterations of the Ninja 650, Versys 650 and Z650 for the coming season.
That means for riders who prefer mid-weight ‘All Roads, One Bike’ style machines, the Versys will now be available in Candy Lime Green / Metallic Spark Black, Pearl Blizzard White / Metallic Spark Black or Metallic Moondust Gray / Metallic Spark Black.
Equipped with distinctive long travel suspension, the Versys is ready to tackle the city, its suburbs and any distance demanded thanks to a confidence inspiring upright riding position and the ability to add clean mount 56l accessory panniers that utilise a single key operating the ignition, fuel cap and seat lock too.
Kawasaki Ninja 650
Comfortable attacking not simply corners but carving a niche for itself in the hearts of many sporting riders, the Ninja 650 will arrive on showroom floors with an equipment package that includes LED headlamps, a colour TFT meter and an assist and slipper clutch.
The machine’s narrow, lithe profile is an ideal confidence boost for newer riders while the angular Ninja cowling is great to tuck behind for more experienced riders enjoying the full sporting potential of this mid-capacity Ninja. For 2021 the colour options are Metallic Spark Black, Lime Green / Ebony / Pearl Blizzard White or Metallic Spark Black / Pearl Blizzard White.
The Sugomi presence of the hard edged yet supremely rider friendly Z650 will be accentuated in 2021 with machines offered in Metallic Spark Black / Metallic Flat Spark Black, Pearl Blizzard White / Metallic Spark Black or Metallic Spark Black; this underpinned with dual throttle valves, LED lighting and a trellis type tubular chassis echoing that of the mighty Z H2.
Offering outstanding performance in terms of newbie-friendly power delivery and responsive chassis compliance, each of the “trio of twins” can also offer a lusty mid-range and accomplished top end rush ready to satisfy even the most time-served rider.
Add the narrow profile and sleek outward appearance of the twin cylinder engine and the only decision to make is the family; Ninja, All Roads, One Bike or Z Naked – whatever the choice these three Euro5 compliant mid-weights approach 2021 ready, willing and able.
Why bother buying a dedicated sat nav like the TomTom Rider 550 when your smart phone will do? It’s exactly the question I asked myself before my 10 day tour around the Pyrenees. When we got stuck in the mountains and my mates smartphone had failed to find signal and cooked itself, I knew I’d made the right choice.
You’ll want the Rider 550 because its the latest dedicated motorcycle sat nav that TomTom has to offer and it includes worldwide mapping and pre-loaded motorcycle Points of Interests (POIs). Like any sat nav, you’ll need to consider how to mount it on your bike – look no further than the premium pack. It will remain on and charged and docks/undocks with a single click. You can fit the anti-theft system but I find it easier to take with me. The unit is totally weatherproof and has sufficient touch sensitivity, even through gloves.
The best bit about the TomTom 550 is the ‘Plan A Thrill’ feature. Select a destination and then adjust how wiggly or how hilly the route should be. The Rider 550 gets creative and takes you down anything but a motorway or dull A roads. I have found superb routes across the country that only a local would know exist, just add some common sense when you’re about to go green laning on your S1000RR.
It has regular speed camera updates and you can get your phone to talk to it through a dedicated TomTom app called MyDrive, but only via WIFI. The Rider550 syncs with a bluetooth headset too, but this is sometimes hampered by bluetooth connection issues. In summary – hassle free navigation wherever you are in the world. Reliable, weatherproof and with succinct instruction, you’ll find superb biking roads when you fit a TomTom 550.
