Pedrosa Ready For Second GP Win In America

The Repsol Honda team rolls through the gates of the world-famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway this week ready to contest round 12 of the Motorcycle World Championship at the spectacular venue. It will be MotoGP's second visit to North America this season and the factory Honda squad will be looking to repeat its victory at the US Grand Prix at Laguna Seca in July. On that occasion Dani Pedrosa led from start to finish on board his RC212V to record Repsol Honda's maiden win of the 2009 season.

After his second place at the last round in Brno in the Czech Republic, Pedrosa is ready for a return to the top step of the podium this weekend. The Spaniard has proved that when everything slots into place he's capable of taking the fight to his championship rivals and he'll be looking to show that his previous victory on American soil was no fluke. And if Pedrosa finishes on the podium in Indianapolis he will overtake the absent Casey Stoner for third place in the championship standings.

Dovizioso is also confident of putting on a strong display this weekend at a circuit he enjoys. The Italian led the first two laps of last year's weather-affected race at Indianapolis while riding for the satellite Scot Honda team, before finishing fifth as the conditions deteriorated rapidly. After a win and a fourth place in the two races running up to Indy, a strong result for Dovizioso this weekend would give him a good chance of moving ahead of Colin Edwards and into fifth place in the world championship points standings. The Texan lies just five points in front of Dovizioso after 11 rounds of the season completed.

This will be MotoGP's second visit to the famous banking of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and the entire paddock will be hoping for better weather this time after last year's race was cut short by hurricane Ike, which lashed the circuit with torrential rain and high winds. Weather permitting, the first practice session for the Grand Prix of Indianapolis takes place on Friday at 13.55 local time (GMT - 4 hours).


DANI PEDROSA - World championship position: 4th, 135 points

"I'm really looking forward to riding in America again because the last time we were in the States - at Laguna Seca in July - we won the race. A result like that would be great for me and the team and that's what we'll be aiming for, though we know we'll have to work hard for it because our rivals have proved they are very strong in the last few races. I don't think the gap they had at the last race in Brno was a true reflection of our pace compared to theirs though, so I expect we're going to be closer to them at Indy. The circuit itself is largely made up of second and third gear corners so it's not one of my favourites to ride, but the venue itself it very impressive. I really hope the weather is going to be better than last year because the conditions in the race were pretty terrible and the organizers were forced to stop it early because it was so dangerous. The team is motivated for Indy - we made some progress in the test after Brno, so we're looking for another strong weekend."

ANDREA DOVIZIOSO - World championship position: 6th, 107 points

"This is the second time that we race at Indianapolis and I have to say that last year I immediately found a good feeling with this new track. It's a typical American venue with great facilities and huge grandstands so the experience of riding there is special. I like this racetrack and it will be important for me and the team to have a good result here. I was fourth in the last race at Brno but that was actually a little disappointing because I was so close to the podium again, so I'm look forward to getting back on track and putting that right. It won't be easy, especially during the first practice session because it's a different type of circuit and it's not so easy to dial into the layout at the beginning. However, I expect us to be closer to the front at this race because the track is quite slow and I think that we will have fewer problems than in Brno where the track amplified our issues. So I'm really looking forward to a good result at Indy."

Super sport

Super sport bikes (also known as middleweight sport bikes) are designed for optimal performance on a race track. They are generally built around a high revving, small displacement powerplant that is usually sized around 600 cc (36.6 cu in) to 800 cc (48.8 cu in). Most super sport bikes will carry a wet weight between 375 lb (170 kg) to 450 lb (204 kg) and produce around 110 bhp (82 kW). Because of how strongly focused super sport bikes are on race track performance, riders below 5 ft 3 in (1.6 m) in height will generally not be able to flatfoot (the placement of both feet completely flat on the ground while sitting on a motorcycle) these types of sport bikes. Taller and heavier riders may find the rider ergonomics in the default position to be cramped and uncomfortable.

Examples include the Honda CBR600RR, Suzuki GSX-R600 and Triumph Daytona 675.

2007 Ducati 1098S Superbike

The new 1098 S has achieved the status of the highest performance Ducati street bike ever by reducing weight to the max and adding world-class components to an already record-breaking design. If owning the ultimate Superbike is your dream, the ‘S’ is ready to deliver.

Suspension is of the very highest performance standard. The fully adjustable 43mm Öhlins FG511 forks, which sport low friction Titanium Nitride fork sliders, respond effortlessly to every imperfection in the tarmac. Beyond their advanced engineering solutions, one of the most important characteristics of Öhlins forks is their ability to communicate the condition and quality of the tyre-to-road contact patch, a feature that puts every rider in superior control. The suspension system is completed and perfectly balanced by using a fully adjustable Öhlins 46PRC rear shock with a ride enhancing top-out spring, controlling the single-sided swingarm for outstanding drive, traction and steering precision. The Öhlins package is completed with a control-enhancing adjustable steering damper.

The ‘S’ also sets a new standard for lightweight performance. On any sport or race bike, the most effective area to reduce weight is its “unsprung weight”. These are components like tyres, brakes and wheels. Lighter wheels have a lower ‘moment of inertia’ that is beneficial with every direction change and application of the brakes. The 1098 addresses this important area by mounting Marchesini forged and machined wheels, reducing weight by 1.9Kg (4lbs). Both front and rear are super lightweight and their benefit is immediately apparent. The weight saving is further enhanced with the application of a carbon fibre front fender.

The 1098 S is also supplied with the Ducati Data Analyzer system as standard equipment. The DDA package supplied with the ‘S’ version enables the retrieval of data and analysis of data collected from your previous track session or road trip. The DDA package includes software for your personal computer on CD, a data retrieval USB key and instructions.




Features and Benefits:

ENGINEERED BY THE STOPWATCH
The priority in every step of the 1098 development has been performance first. Every system, every detail and every component has been studied and pared down to its essence and performance increased to the maximum. If it didn’t make the 1098 lighter, faster or deliver quicker lap times, it wasn’t considered.

The result: the 1098 is the most powerful twin-cylinder motorcycle in the world with the highest torque-to-weight ratio of any sport bike. The 1098 is the lightest, fastest stopping, quickest lapping Ducati in history. For the first time Ducati MotoGP and World Superbike technology have been combined to create a premier street bike. The results are stunning.

DESIGNED BY THE RACETRACK
The look and stance of the 1098 were designed by the combination of race track technology, track-derived components and Ducati heritage. The 1098’s striking aerodynamic shape naturally embraces its riding position, configured by our racers and test riders for optimum speed and agility. The racing spirit takes form.

2007 RANGE MODELS
The Superbike is available in three versions: the awesome 1098; the 1098 S, for those who demand the ultimate in performance with the very best suspension, lightweight wheels and components; and the special 'Tricolore' in green white and red - the colours of the Italian national flag - with "Racing Gold" frame and wheels, plus Termignoni racing muffler kit with dedicated ECU.



1098 HIGHLIGHTS

THE NEW TESTASTRETTA EVOLUZIONE ENGINE


The Testastretta Evoluzione engine is the crowning glory of Ducati’s development and perfection of the L-Twin engine. World Superbike dominance for the last 15 years is the result of continual commitment to twin-cylinder technology and the 1098 Testastretta Evoluzione, the most powerful twin-cylinder production engine in history, is a fitting reward to our engineers’ continued ingenuity.

CHASSIS AND SUSPENSION


The 1098 chassis and suspension have received the same detailed study and performance first priority approach. The goal was to achieve considerable weight saving while building-in strength and rigidity to manage the new high-powered Testastretta Evoluzione engine. Each and every component not only contributes to achieving superior road holding and stability, but when assembled, become a system with value far greater than the sum of all its parts.


BRAKES WHEELS AND BODY

With a Superbike as capable as the 1098, superior stopping power is fundamental. The 1098 is the first production street bike to use Brembo’s Monobloc caliper racing technology. The M4-34 calipers are machined from a single piece of alloy, vs. the bolt-together construction of conventional calipers. The Monobloc design has much higher rigidity and resistance to distortion during extreme braking, and therefore gives a much more precise feel at the brake lever.

INSTRUMENTS, DATA AND LIGHTING

Desmosedici-style digital instrumentation is taken from Ducati’s MotoGP GP7 project. This pure racing, minimalist solution by Digitek has no switches or buttons to compromise its clean lines.

With the purchase of the Ducati Data Analyser (DDA), which includes PC software, a USB-ready data retrieval card and instructions, owners are ready to review and analyse the performance of the 1098 and its rider, and make comparisons between various channels of information.



Readers of “Motorrad” and “In Moto” vote their “Motorcycle of the year 2007”

This time it was the votes of readers of two top-flight international magazines - the German publication “Motorrad” and the Italian mag “IN MOTO” - that decreed which would be the best motorcycle of 2007. Once again Ducati played a leading role, stealing the scene and winning both consensus and awards – clear indicators of the continuing worldwide success enjoyed by the latest “made in Borgo Panigale” models.

This international award involves some of the most important magazines in the industry. In Italy votes were gathered by the monthly magazine IN MOTO: on Tuesday 13th March, after counting up the 24,853 ballot papers sent in to the editors, the “Motorcycles of the year 2007” were finally made known.


Ducati triumphed in a good three of the eight categories into which the motorcycles were divided, winning first place among the sports models (with the superbly stylish and high performance 1098 of course) with 29.9% of the vote. The runner-up was the MV Agusta F4 1000 R and in third place it was Ducati yet again with the Desmosedici RR, the esoteric and exclusive MotoGP road replica. The Multistrada 1100 - in the road bikes category– also came up trumps by coming first with 12% of the votes, ahead of the Yamaha FZ1 Fazer and the Moto Guzzi 1200 Sport. In the enduro/supermotard category it was a landslide victory for the all-new Hypermotard (to be launched on the market in May): sweeping aside the competition, it took a massive 33.5% of the votes, beating the BMW R 1200 GS and KTM 950 Supermoto hands down.

During the night of 15th March, the renowned German magazine MOTORRAD which, with a circulation of 200,000 copies, is Europe’s most-read bike mag, also elected the best motorcycles of 2007: readers sent in a whopping 36,672 ballot papers.
Once again, there were eight categories and, once again, Ducati cornered the votes.

In the sports motorcycles category awards were won by two Ducatis; in first place came the 1098, with 12.1% of the vote, followed by the Desmosedici RR (11.2%). Like in Italy, it was a surprise victory for Ducati in the enduro/supermotard category where, with a percentage of 18.3%, the Hypermotard beat – playing away! – the German BMW GS 1200 (16.8 %).
Acknowledged by 29% of readers as the best sports motorcycle brand, Ducati trounced the opposition in this segment, too, winning over 29 % of the readers of this authoritative German publication, who preferred the “Reds of Borgo Panigale” to Suzuki (12.2%) and Yamaha (10.1%).

Click to enlarge

2008 Ducati 1098 *CLEARANCE PRICED* Call us for the best prices of the year!

YEAR: 2008

TYPE: Motorcycle

MAKE: Ducati

STOCK NUMBER: 010711

MODEL: 1098

PRIMARY COLOR: Red

SUB-CATEGORY: Sport

MILEAGE: 1

PRICE: $*CLERANCED PRICED* Call us for the best prices of the year!

*We can help you with financing to come up with low monthly payments*

Don't let distance get in the way of buying a bike. We ship bikes to all four corners of the country. Delivery of this motorcycle is available via secure, enclosed trailer at the rate of $1.50/mile or less. Please call for more details and other shipping options.

we have other great motorcycles on our website! Check us out http://azsbk.com/

Call at 480-898-0559

or... come by and see the bike at Arizona Superbike 3245 N. Arizona Ave. Suite E-8 (Arizona Ave and Elliot) Chandler Arizona 85225

*Price, if shown, may not include government fees, taxes, dealer vehicle freight/preparation or dealer document charges or finance charges (if applicable).

superbike

New Superbike Structure In 2009
by staff
Wednesday, March 21, 2007

Well, it looks like they decided to fix some old problems first.

This just in from the AMA:

AMA TO ROLL OUT NEW SUPERBIKE CLASS STRUCTURE IN 2009

PICKERINGTON, Ohio (March 21, 2007) - AMA Racing announced today that it will implement a new class structure for the AMA Superbike Championship beginning with the 2009 season. The new class structure will feature three championship classes with accommodations in place to run developmental/support classes as part of the overall series. The new championship classes are as follows:


AMA Superbike
AMA Supersport
AMA Formula Xtreme


AMA Superbike will remain the series' leading class and continue to be based primarily on 1000cc equipment. In its new iteration, AMA Superbike pulls from existing Superbike and Superstock rules resulting in an all-new premier class. Supersport and Formula Xtreme will remain similar to their existing structure but will also be refined.


In making the announcement AMA President, Rob Dingman, acknowledged the dynamic nature of motorcycle development as well as the motorcycle marketplace. "We're seeing unprecedented gains in the levels of performance by modern motorcycles," said Dingman. "Also, as motorcycle sales have remained robust, the manufacturers have sought to accelerate their competitive advantages, not to mention market share, by improving key products even more."


Dingman added that AMA Racing's objective is to recognize and respond to these changes while considering such factors as rider safety, quality of competition, cost, and the overall health and growth of motorcycle road racing, among other criteria.


In developing its new class structure, AMA Racing officials looked outward. "We considered the class structure and rules packages of other leading sanctioning bodies worldwide as part of this process," said Dingman. "Ultimately, we need to do what is in the best interest of the riders, teams, manufacturers and sponsors competing in the United States but, at the same time, this cannot be done in a vacuum."


Dingman said World Superbike as well as leading national series like British Superbike, German Superbike and Australian Superbike were examined.


In 2006 AMA Racing adopted new procedures for rules development. In addition to a Racing Committee whose role is to determine and set strategic direction for all AMA Racing properties, separate rules committees were developed for each racing discipline. The new Superbike class structure was presented to the Road Race Rules Committee on March 21 at a meeting at AMA offices in California. Feedback provided by the committee will be used in determining final class structure details.


Specific equipment standards and technical rules remain under development and will be finalized in the near future. Additionally, AMA Racing is evaluating several options for developmental/support classes. A main objective for these classes is to create an improved process for the growth of younger riders and their ability to compete at the national level. As always, AMA Racing will continually monitor its class structure and rules packages and modify as necessary.


Dingman stated that strengthening the AMA Superbike Championship overall is at the core of these changes. "We see great opportunity for AMA Superbike to continue to expand," said Dingman. "Throughout 2006 and early 2007 we have made a number of changes to our organization and staff all in the name of improvement. We see this new class structure as part of that evolution. 2007 will be an important year as we prepare for our future."

ENDS

Akrapovič Exhaust Systems Technology is a manufacturer of top-quality exhaust systems for motorcycles, sports cars and carbon parts.

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Only the best is good enough for us. But the best is not just the exclusive privilege of the factory teams. Now it is available to everyone!

BMW's 2010 S1000RR superbike - full details released

BMW's S1000RR 1000cc superbike might not be making big waves in World Superbike competition just yet, but today's release of photos, specifications and a hugely detailed press pack leaves us in no doubt that the new Beemer flagship will be an absolute monster on the road. A massive 193 horsepower is just the beginning - the S1000RR packs a combined ABS that's lighter and smarter than Honda's, variable intake tracts and exhaust butterflies that outdo the Yamaha and MV Agusta systems, a 4-mode variable engine mapping system that seems a lot better thought-out than Suzuki's, and a very clever traction control system that's integrated into the mind-boggling fly-by-wire engine management system in a way that seems much more logical than Ducati's. Brand new in every way, this purpose-built German superbike is set to hit showroom floors well before the end of the year.

As Troy Corser and Ruben Xaus quietly go about the long and arduous task of developing the S1000RR into a World Superbike title contender, BMW are getting set to release the brand new superbike to showrooms worldwide.

The bike is packed with some of the most sophisticated and complex technology ever seen in the motorcycle world, all tightly integrated and kept out of the rider's way in the name of huge, controllable power, the cutting edge in safety and sweet handling on wet or dry roads.

To say that the S1000RR features traction control, fly-by-wire throttle management, variable engine mapping or linked ABS braking seems woefully inadequate - BMW have integrated all these systems in a clever and rider-focused way. "Rain" mode, for example, still gives the rider access to a 150 horsepower, but puts traction control and ABS on a hair-trigger.

At the other end of the scale, "slick" mode delivers the full complement of horsepower, with the most direct and aggressive throttle response, while tuning the traction control to allow controlled sliding and power wheelies for up to 5 seconds on a lean under 20 degrees before the computer starts retarding the spark and altering the fuelling to get things under control. Grabbing the front brake in "slick" mode sends a proportion of braking force to the rear wheel as well to maximise braking stability - but then, if the rider applies the rear brake lever, the rear wheel ABS circuit is switched off so an experienced rider can lock up the back wheel and back the bike in to a corner on the racetrack.

Both the Dynamic Traction Control and ABS systems can be switched on and off at will - so presumably you'll be able to do burnouts on the S1000RR - an activity which has caused much mirth and many burned-out clutches when attempted on a linked-brake Honda.

The new BMW's amazing electronics are just one part of an overall package that seems set to deliver big-time on rideability, power, safety and giggle factor when it hits the showrooms before the end of 2009. For a more thorough review of the available information, plus lots more full-resolution photos and the full (and incredibly detailed) BMW press release, pop over to TheBikerGene.

Crescent Worx Suzuki's French superbike ace fit and ready to ride again

Following a track test late this afternoon, the Worx Crescent Suzuki team have confirmed that Sylvain Guintoli will be returning to race at the next round of the British Superbikes championship at Cadwell Park on August 29-31.

Guintoli, who suffered a broken tibia and fibula in an incident at round three of the BSB championship at Donington Park, today put in 45 laps of testing at the Lincolnshire track. After three months of recuperation and rehabilitation Guintoli expressed his delight in being back in the saddle, and his relief in being able to demonstrate his leg is now back to strength.

Sylvain Guintoli: "It's great to be back, I've missed this a lot. I've been a long time not on a bike and while I could deal with it at the start, to be honest, it got worse as the time dragged by.

"I did a brief ride last week on a superstock bike at a Mallory Park track day just to see if I could physically ride. That went okay so we came here today with the BSB bike and went for the full test. This really is some track and so I gave my leg a full workout what with the Mountain and all, and it feels alright. Mentally, too, I found I had no hang ups.

"Now I'm looking forward to the racing in two week's time. And I'm not coming back for fifth place or anything like that – I'm not making up the numbers – I'll be as I always am, 100% into it."

Jack Valentine, team manager: "Sylvain's passed today's test with flying colours. We set the bike up just as he last had it and he got on and rode it like he's never been away. He did 45 laps and at the end he wasn't even sweating.

"His lap times were excellent as well. He's been away for three months, the track looked decidedly green and he's only been here once before for a few laps on a road bike, so his pace today was impressive, not exactly lap record, but fast enough to say this is the Sylvain we know and love. We're really looking forward to the Cadwell races now!"

Proton has expanded its GEN-2 range with the addition of two dual fuel models, 'ecoLogic' is able to run on either LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) or petrol, offering customers significant savings on their fuel costs as a result.

• LPG at no additional cost
• Cheaper fuel
• Lower emissions
• Lotus-engineered for exceptional handling
• Practical, comfortable family car

• ABS, EBD and twin airbags
• Full range of safety and security features
• 1.6 litre 16V CamPro engine
• 15" alloy wheels
• Blaupunkt radio/CD player with steering wheel controls

• "The GEN-2 makes a lot of sense for motorists wanting an affordable car." The Sun
• "If you want to clean up your act in the New Year, the Proton GEN-2 is worth considering."

  Evening Standard

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2009 BMW S 1000 RR Superbike – Official Pics

The Intermot saloon in Cologne, Germany was THE event for BMW to unveil the S 1000 RR model on which pilots Ruben Xaus and Troy Corser will compete in the World Superbike Championship.

The Bavarian house doesn’t give much information about the racing model apart from the fact that the engine will deliver 180 horses which will be harnessed by ABS and traction control, but the way it looks says all for the moment.

Compact Spaniard Alvaro Bautista looks set to replace Chris Vermuelen at the Suzuki MotoGP team for 2010 ... Scroll down for the full story

Alvaro Bautista, the talented 24 year old Spanish 250 rider, currently plying his trade in the Aspar Martinez Mapfre Aprilia 250GP team, has apparently knocked back a chance to stick with the team in 2010 to take the Suzuki yen offered to him by Paul Denning. Or so we hear.

Bautista, a race winner in 125 and 250 GPs, was offered a ride in MotoGP on the customer Ducatis that Aspar is set to run in 2010. But the canny young Spaniard has given the career-stalling (or ending) Ducati GP9 a body swerve to learn the MotoGP ropes alongside Loris Capirossi at the perennially underperforming Suzuki team. Well, if you were Bautista, what would you do if you couldn't get a Yamaha to ride in MotoGP? Exactly, you'd learn the ropes in a team nobody expected you to do well in on a bike that nobody has won on in the dry anyway. The 'trabajo e un sueño' as they say in Talavera de la Reina, assuming 'the job's a dream' is a commonly used phrase in the middle of Spain.

All of which means Vermeulen is on his way. Where? Oh, let's say...a Yamaha team.

Superbikes

Superbikes are the pinnacle of high-performance sportbike motorcycles. Superbikes are often referred to as literbikes, or liter-class sportbikes, referring to their large-displacement 1000cc and higher engines. The apogee of production roadracing, most manufacturers deliver full-factory support of their flagship superbikes in the world’s roadracing series – the most notable being the Superbike World Championship (SBK) and various national level series like American Superbike and British Superbike.

The Big Four Japanese OEMs have long dominated the Superbike class, with Inline-Fours like the Honda CBR1000RR, Kawasaki ZX-10R, Suzuki GSX-R1000 and Yamaha R1. Ducati superbikes, like the 999, 1098 and current 1198, hold their own with the Big Four thanks to the torquey Twin powerplant and its current 200cc handicap. Past Japanese models have also embraced the Twin, most notable modern superbike being the Honda RC-51.

Other European superbike models include European Twins like the Aprilia RSV1000RR and KTM’s first production superbike – the KTM RC8. Aprilia also produces a four-cylinder superbike with its V-Four-powered RSV4. Another European four-cylinder is the BMW S1000RR, and Inline-Four and the first true superbike racer produced by the Bavarian marque. The American-made Buell 1125R is the first liquid-cooled Buell and features a Rotax Twin powerplant.

Defined by racing success, the win on Sunday sell on Monday philosophy is at definitely at work in the superbike class. As such, superbikes are often a showcase for developing motorcycle technology and racers often drive off-track marketing and brand ID. Just look at Mat Mladin's decade-long domination of AMA Superbike aboard the Suzuki GSX-R1000, Troy Bayliss's three titles with Ducati Superbikes, or the incomparable Valentino Rossi, whose MotoGP star power is used to hawk the Yamaha R1.

Motorcycle USA gathers the superbike class together annually to test on street and track. The result is our most popular test of the year, the Superbike Smackdown. Stay tuned for Smackdown VI, as the best keep getting better in the high-performance superbike class.

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Aprilia Tuono V4 & RSV4 R spy shots reveal important details

The friends at MCN got their hands on the spy shots of the new Aprilia Tuono V4 and RSV4 R models and it looks like the bikes are very close to being launched. Both have been spotted during tests undergone on the Mugello track in Italy.

Although none of the two bikes is revolutionary, both being based on the Aprilia RSV 4 Factory, these photos reveal a few essential details.

The RSV 4 R model will follow his RSV 1000 R sibling, meaning that it will have cheaper parts than on the Factory. Affordability was a priority and, given the fact that the RSV 4 Factory now costs around $18,000, we can expect the R model to compete with the 2010 BMW S1000RR.

In order to reduce costs, Aprilia goes for Showa suspension instead of Ohlins, less exotic rims and gives up to different carbon fiber bits and pieces, but do manage to retain the Brembo monoblock calipers.

The Aprilia Tuono V4 carries on the tradition of the naked models built at the Noale factory, meaning that it features stripped bodywork, straight handlebar and a strange looking headlight.

Given the fact that this year’s Paris Moto Show was canceled and the next Intermot edition in Germany is scheduled to take place in 2010, the Italians are left with an only option to launch the new models: EICMA 200

2010 Suzuki GSX-R1000RR by Yoshimura

Yoshimura uses the experience gained in AMA Superbike racing to create a limited edition Suzuki GSX-R1000. Features such as the high-lift cams, a quick shifter, numerous suspension upgrades and a full titanium-carbon exhaust are surely enough to help make an impression on the bike that comes as a clearly superior alternative to the recently unveiled Buell 1125RR racing motorcycle, which will compete in the AMA Superbike series.

The fact that the Buell motorcycle is not for sale to the general public determined Mat Mladin, former AMA Superbike Champion, to contest the AMA’s decision to let Buell’s turnkey racer compete in the series. As a contradiction to this fact, the Suzuki GSX-R1000RR is street-legal and also available to the public, which shows how racing experience always stands out when it all reduces to the facts/benefits.

Price and availability are yet to be announced, but those who miss their exemplar can very well built their own by simply buying the Yoshimura aftermarket parts and having them mounted on a standard Suzuki GSX-R1000.

KTM RC8 R McWilliams Limited Edition

KTM RC8 R McWilliams Limited Edition

Posted on 08.7.2009 12:00 by Maxx Biker
Filed under: KTM | superbike | Racing | limited edition | KTM RC8

This attracting sight represents KTM’s RC8 R McWilliams replica, a machine produced in a limited number (100 units) both to honor Jeremy McWilliams, KTM’s racer in the IDM German Superbike Championship, and to offer club racers the possibility to get their hands on a machine that looks like nothing ordinary (not that the stock RC8 does, but this is yet another step forward).

Apart from the cool new livery, the KTM Club Racer kit includes an Akrapovic EVO4 full system, hi-lift cams and datalogging. The total number of break horsepower reaches 180, which is 10 bhp more than on the standard model.

Street legality is always the sacrifice in the quest for more power and that is why the KTM RC8 R McWilliams addresses to club racers. Sure, you can always convert it to road spec, but what’s the point in buying it if that’s the plan?

The Ducati 1098 has a beautiful aerodynamic shape that will catch attentions on the streets. (James Chow/The Epoch Times)

KUALA LUMPUR—Good news for superbikes lovers as Ducati's 1098 was officially launched by Next Bike Sdn Bhd of Naza Group, the franchise holder of the Ducati superbikes in Malaysia.

Appeared in striking red with aerodynamic shape, the show bike definitely caught the attentions of participants at the launch event on Sunday at the Loft, Kuala Lumpur.

It is no wonder the Ducati 1098 Superbike, which was launched to the world at the EICMA motorcycle show in Milan in November 2006, won the "Most Beautiful Motorcycle in Show" award.

The bike was also voted "Motorcycle of the year 2007" by readers of German publication Motorrad and the Italian magazine In Moto.

Not only in beauty does the Ducati stand out from the rest; the 1098 is claimed to be the most powerful twin-cylinder motorcycle in the world, with the highest torque-to-weight ratio of any sport bike, producing 160 hp and 12.5kgm of torque!

The 1098 is the lightest, fastest stopping, quickest lapping Ducati in history. For the first time, Ducati MotoGP and World Superbike technology have been combined to create a premier street bike.

The 1098 sports a monoshock rear suspension. (James Chow/The Epoch Times)

"Ducati Bikes are designed, engineered and built in Italy, have always represented the pinnacle of Ducati motorcycle technology and racing success. The new 1098 and 1098S superbikes crystallize the essence of Ducati. They are in form and function the crowning achievement of a company dedicated to performance," said Dato' HJ SM Zulkifli SM Amin, Executive Vice-President-Operations of the Naza Group of Companies at the launch ceremony.

The look and stance of the 1098 were designed based on the combination of racetrack technology, track-derived components and Ducati heritage. The 1098's striking aerodynamic shape naturally embraces its riding position, configured according to recommendations by Ducati's racers and test riders for optimum speed and agility.

A close-up look at the controls of the Ducati 1098. (James Chow/The Epoch Times)

When it comes to engine technology, the 1098 has completely new compact cylinders and cylinder heads. Other 1098 innovations and revisions are less obvious as they reside inside the Evoluzione's engine cases, but whether external or internal, every new development was conceived to create a lighter, more efficient and powerful ultra-compact engine for the new generation of Ducati superbikes.

The Superbike is available in three versions: the standard 1098; the 1098 S for those who demand better performance with the perfect suspension, lightweight wheels and components; and the special 'Tricolore' in green, white and red – the colours of the Italian national flag—with "Racing Gold" frame and wheels, plus Termignoni racing muffler kit with dedicated ECU.

Giant Bembro cross-drilled discs provide the front-end stopping power. (James Chow/The Epoch Times)

So how much is the new Ducati 1098? Next Bike Sdn Bhd has priced the Ducati range from RM125,000 to RM168,000 (approximately from US$ 35,000 to US$ 47,000.) With the price range equivalent with decent imported 2.0/2.4 sedan cars, the Ducati 1098 is likely targeted for the higher-income group with enthusiastic hobby in superbikes in Malaysia. Only limited units are available, said Next Bike Sdn Bhd.

The 1098 features beautifully-sculpted twin exhausts. (James Chow/The Epoch Times)

Desmosedici RR

1100|1100 S

1100|1100 S|696

1100 S

GT 1000|GT 1000 Touring|Sport 1000 biposto|Sport 1000 S

Streetfighter|Streetfighter S

2010 DUCATI 848 NICKY HAYDEN EDITION Ducati North America is proud to announce the 848 Nicky Hayden Edition. This striking livery places a distinctly American stamp on the market's best middleweight sport bike. The 848 Nicky Hayden was publically unveiled at the 2009 Red Bull United States Grand Prix at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, where Nicky’s MotoGP race bike was presented in a matching scheme. There could be no better time or place to celebrate the American World Champion than at his home race on the 4th of July. This US-exclusive model features an American inspired paint scheme, aptly fit for its introduction on the 4th of July, personally autographed gas tank, and model updates for the 2010 year. Check out the video of the Nicky's photo shoot with the bike below! The new Ducati 848 Nicky Hayden Edition enjoys all the performance advancements of the entire Superbike family, while adding its own innovations to redefine the middleweight sport bike class. The words 'agile' and 'refined' aptly describe the 848. At 168kg (369lbs), the 848 is an amazing 20kg (44lbs) lighter than its predecessor.

Suitable helmet for Ride

1. Shark
has earned a decent reputation as a top-notch helmet firm, and this RSF3 is a good example of its work.

The shell uses the firm's light-yet-tough composite fibre construction, the inner liner has multi-density shock absorbing elements, and the visor is an extra-tough 2.2mm item, secured by a super-easy pushbutton change system.

There's ample venting to prevent misting and overheating while a washable liner and quick-release strap fastening make life easier. Plus, we just love the cool, Paul Smith-esque paint job on this Colors design.


2. KBC helmet
It may not be the best-known brand in the UK, but KBC has been making inroads here and its popularity around the world, especially in the US, is not in doubt. And, to emphasise its confidence in its designs and South Korean manufacturing quality control, KBC has introduced a a new five-year warranty on all its helmets. Here's the (edited) press release....

KBC Helmets, one of the fastest growing helmet manufacturers in the world and a world leader in the private label (OEM) business, has now introduced a five-year warranty on all of its helmets.

Priding itself on its research and development programme, Californian-based KBC now joins a very select few of other top helmet manufacturers offering such a stunning warranty.

The five-year warranty runs from date of purchase (or six years from date of manufacture) and covers defects in materials or workmanship. If a claim is made, KBC will, at its option, replace or repair the product with the same or similar helmet.

Loz Broers, Product and Brand Manager for KBC Europe said: “We go to extreme lengths and through rigorous quality controls and safety checks to ensure a high quality product, so offering a five-year warranty just goes to prove the understandable confidence we have in KBC helmets.”

You may also be interested to learn that KBC Helmets is not only one of the fastest growing helmet manufacturers in the world and a world leader in the private label (OEM) business, KBC also manufactures 75% of the world's leading motocross name brands.

The pic is of the ACU gold-badge approved KBC VR 2R Spark full-face helmet which retails for £199.99.



3.Shoei
Top Japanese helmet brand Shoei has unveiled an updated top of the range X Spirit lid for 2010. The X-Spirit, first introduced back in 2004, has proved popular for fans of lightweight, sporty lids. Shoei's phenomenally popular XR-1000 (also just updated) mimicked the same sleek shell shape as the X Spirit, albeit with a rear spoiler attached rather than integrated into the shell. Anyway, say hello to the X-Spirit 2.

In any case, there was nothing wrong with the X Spirit, a helmet I've been wearing for years without complaint or cause for concern over the build quality. My blue Noricke Abe and red Ryuichi Kiyonari rep paint schemes remained unchipped, the cheek and forehead padding is still pretty firm and the straps are unfrayed, while the visor mechanisms in both are still snug. The race-recommended breath guard worked faultlessly in racing in the rain and obviously on the road too. So I have no complaints.

We only have one pic, but we reckon that there's a new shell shape, the same lightweight AIM shell material, a sleeker, more aerodynamic rear and...that's all the info we've got from our source. Any more info and we'll update the story. Keep 'em peeled.

Ducati 999 R Superbike 2006

Ducati's profilation of this bike

Every year, Ducati satisfies the most demanding enthusiasts by producing a limited number of its most advanced, pure performance super-sports bike for the road: the 999R.

General information
Model:	Ducati 999 R Superbike
Year:	2006
Category:	Sport
Rating:	72.1 out of 100. Show full rating and compare with other bikes
Safety:	See our safety campaign with the high safety rated bikes in this category.
Engine and transmission
Displacement:	999.00 ccm (60.96 cubic inches)
Engine type:	V2
Stroke:	4
Power:	147.51 HP (107.7 kW)) @ 9750 RPM
Torque:	11.90 Nm (1.2 kgf-m or 8.8 ft.lbs) @ 8000 RPM
Compression:	12.5:1
Bore x stroke:	104.0 x 58.8 mm (4.1 x 2.3 inches)
Fuel system:	Injection. Marelli electronic fuel injection, 54 mm throttle body
Valves per cylinder:	4
Fuel control:	Desmodromic valve control
Starter:	Electric
Cooling system:	Liquid
Gearbox:	6-speed
Transmission type final drive:	Chain
Clutch:	Dry multiplate with hydraulic control
Physical measures
Wheelbase:	1,420 mm (55.9 inches)
Chassis and dimensions
Frame type:	Tubular steel trellis
Front suspension:	hlins 43 mm upside-down fully adjustable fork with TiN surface treatment, for radial calipers
Front suspension travel:	120 mm (4.7 inches)
Rear suspension:	Progressive linkage with fully adjustable hlins monoshock
Rear suspension travel:	128 mm (5.0 inches)
Front tyre dimensions:	120/70-ZR17
Rear tyre dimensions:	190/50-ZR17
Front brakes:	Double disc
Front brakes diameter:	320 mm (12.6 inches)
Rear brakes:	Single disc
Rear brakes diameter:	240 mm (9.4 inches)
Exhaust system:	Single steel muffler with catalytic converter
Speed and acceleration
Other specifications
Fuel capacity:	15.50 litres (4.10 gallons)
Color options:	Red-red-black
Further information
Parts and accessories	Check out parts and accessories from our partners.
Ask questions	Join the 06 Ducati 999 R Superbike discussion group, the new Ducati forum at Bikez.name or the new Sport forum at Bikez.name.
Insurance, loans, tests	Check out insurance here. Search the web for dealers, loan costs, tests, customizing, etc.
Related bikes	List related bikes for comparison of specs

The joy of riding without a helmet

I know I'm going to get lambasted but I don't care. I wear a helmet much of the time when I ride my motorcycle but sometimes I do not. I make no apologies.

This annual trip we're now on is one place you can bet I'll be riding lidless at times. If you never have done so you just don't comprehend how freeing, how gloriously wonderful it is to ride without that bucket on your head. I'm not proselytizing, I'm not trying to convince anyone else to ride without a helmet, I'm just saying that at times I do and when I do I love it. It's heaven.

Take our ride over Wolf Creek Pass in Utah the other day. Between the intermittent showers we encountered, it was an "Oh my god" sort of incredibly beautiful day. You've been outside on days like that, walking in the park, sitting in your backyard, whatever. Now imagine how it would have been had you been wearing a helmet. It would have put a bit of a damper on the glorious day, wouldn't it? Don't think for an instant that doesn't happen on the bike. Riding without the helmet is a different world.

Of course people remark about catching the occasional bugs or bits of grit in your face, and no, that's not pleasant. But it's really not that unpleasant. In fact, while I usually duck down behind my fairing when it starts to sprinkle, the other day I decided to just sit upright and take the stinging needles full on my face, just to see how bad it really was. You know what? Compared to a lot of other unpleasant things I've experienced this really was no big deal. And for me, the pain is worth the pleasure. I know it is for a lot of other people, too.

For some of us, safety and comfort are just not the end-all and be-all in the world. You don't take stupid risks, and you don't set out to kill or maim yourself, but you're willing to take some risk because if you didn't take any risk you might as well be a vegetable growing in a well-tended garden. And well-tended vegetables still end up getting eaten.

What's more, I've been riding motorcycles for more than 40 years, and a good part of that, especially in the early years, was without a helmet. In that time I've gone down once and was not wearing a helmet that time, but I did not suffer a head injury. Think of all the joy I would have missed out on in all that time. No, I make no apologies.

"AGTATT doesn't mean much if you get run over by 60,000 pounds of truck and cargo."

Make no mistake, I wear my helmet a lot. But sometimes I choose not to. I'll take my risks and make my choices. It's called freedom.

Kawasaki ER-6n Review

The ER-6n may have an odd name and a weird schnoz, but it’s one of the best bangs for the buck in the 2009 model year. It’s a zippy commuter rig, an agile backroad scratcher and a reasonable light-duty sport-tourer – it’s a modern interpretation of a do-it-all roadster, all for a palatable $6,399 entry fee.

The ER-6n can be best described as a naked version of the revised-for’09 Ninja 650R, and they share a new steel-trellis frame. Kawi engineers used computer modeling to come up with a revised rigidity balance, allowing a measure of tuned flex for improved handling. The frame itself is said to be nearly as light as a comparable aluminum-alloy unit, and it boasts an upgraded finish over previous 650Rs. Both chassis also share an offset lay-down rear shock and a relatively long tubular-steel swingarm that offers extra rigidity to balance the frame’s extra flex.

You’ll also find commonality in the engine room, as both the Ninja and the ER use the compact 649cc parallel-Twin with 4 valves per cylinder actuated by double overhead cams. Both also share electronic fuel-injection systems with 38mm throttle bodies; sub-throttle valves mimic the smooth response of constant-velocity carburetors. Changes to this engine from the previous 650R consist only of a larger airbox and revised ECU mapping.

Although the ER is sure to find friends among pragmatic experienced riders, the bike has also been developed to please beginners. As such, it has such rider-friendly aids as an automatic fast-idle program to make simple cold-starts, adjustable clutch and brake levers to accommodate a variety of hand sizes, and a non-stressful upright riding position. The new frame is narrower at its midsection, allowing a slimmer seat for a shorter reach to the ground from the relatively low seat height of 30.9 inches. The ER’s transmission is also equipped with Kawi’s neutral-finder design that eases access to neutral when stopped.

Punch the starter button and the 649cc Twin blats out a tune familiar to anyone who’s heard a Ninja 650, as it has the same under-engine muffler and bullet-shaped exhaust tip. A light clutch pull eases commuter duties, and a responsive pull from the torquey engine keep you one step ahead of cage traffic. ZX-style mirrors are stalk-mounted on the handlebar to offer a clear view of the vehicles you just left behind.

Kawi’s Vibe-Away Program

While a 90-degree V-Twin like a Suzuki SV650 or Gladius has perfect primary balance that inhibits vibration, a parallel-Twin like the ER’s transmits some primary and secondary forces that make their way to a rider. Kawi’s Vibe Police stepped in this year with several updates to quell any bothersome trembling from its inline-Twin.

A balance shaft returns to duty in the ER/Ninja, and this year it’s augmented by the upper-rear engine mount being damped by rubber bushings. In addition, the tubular steel handlebar is rubber-mounted to inhibit vibration, and the bike’s footpegs are rubber covered. Even the bike’s handy grab rails are mounted in soothing rubber. Vibration from the previous Ninja 650R wasn’t excessive, but it’s now been reduced to inconsequential levels.