Honda Expands miniMOTO Family with Fun, Approachable, Affordable Navi
With automatic transmission, low seat height, model expands motorcycling to new riders
— TORRANCE, Calif.
American Honda confirmed today that the Navi miniMOTO will be offered in the U.S. market for the 2022 model year. Small, accessible, enjoyable and priced extremely competitively, the Navi appeals to a wide range of customers, especially those just learning to ride. The model has a fuel-efficient, user-friendly 110cc engine and an automatic transmission – so no shift lever or clutch lever. The look is sporty and fun, and the seat has a low, 30.1 inch height, so most riders can touch the ground with both feet. The combination is a bike that’s nimble for navigating city traffic, easy to carry on an RV bumper rack and lightweight to simplify maneuvering into tight parking spots. There’s even a storage bin for stowing a jacket, snack or textbooks. Already very popular in some markets, the Navi is now available in the United States.
“From the original Cub to the Grom, Honda has a proud legacy of producing miniMOTO models that open doors to new riders, and the Navi is set to extend that trend even further,” said Brandon Wilson, Sports & Experiential Manager at American Honda. “This miniMOTO checks all the boxes for new riders, like simple operation, a fun design, low operating costs and Honda reliability – all for well under $2,000. We’re pleased to make motorcycling possible for more riders by offering the Navi in the U.S.”
The Navi will be on display at this weekend’s IMS Outdoors motorcycle show in Costa Mesa, California, where it will also be among the models included in the Motorcycle Industry Council’s Ride With Us Moto Intro experience, giving new riders an opportunity to try motorcycling.
Honda also confirmed the return of five additional on-road models for the new model year: the Gold Wing tourer and NC750X adventure tourer, the Rebel 1100 and Fury cruisers, and the CBR600RR sport bike. Most of these models are available in multiple trim levels, and some are offered in new colors for 2022.
A 2022-model Honda Navi mini streetbike at rest. Photo courtesy American Honda.
NAVI
Somewhat of a mix between Honda’s Ruckus and Grom (each of which is popular enough to have developed its own subculture), the Navi has the styling of a motorcycle and some convenience features of a scooter, including Honda’s V-Matic automatic transmission – just twist the throttle to go! It’s all wrapped up in an appealing miniMOTO package that’s fun and easy to personalize, for example with Honda Accessory graphics produced in collaboration with Icon. The Navi also has an amazingly low MSRP and gas-sipping performance, putting it within reach of almost any customer. With Honda’s proven quality and reliability, it’s also a dependable way to get around town – far more convenient than public transportation or carpooling. There’s never been a better way for new riders to discover just how enjoyable, convenient and practical motorcycling can be.
MSRP: $1,807
Colors: Red; Grasshopper Green; Nut Brown; Ranger Green
Availability: January 2022 (February in California)
The iconic Honda Gold Wing has helped pave the way for the modern touring category through its smooth power, deluxe features and overall performance. There has always been a subset of motorcyclists who covet a machine that meets their desire for long-distance tours in luxury, and for decades, the Gold Wing has fulfilled that wish. That’s particularly true of the current platform, with large luggage capacity, rich audio equipment and a helpful navigation setup being just a few of the qualities that make it exceptional. Superior seat comfort (for both rider and passenger) and incomparable suspension performance facilitate multi-day journeys, but excellent handling means the Gold Wing also performs in more sporty situations.
MSRP
Gold Wing DCT: $25,300
Gold Wing Tour: $28,500
Gold Wing Tour DCT: $29,500
Gold Wing Tour Airbag DCT: $32,800
Colors
Gold Wing DCT: Nightshade Blue
Gold Wing Tour: Ultra Blue Metallic; Metallic Black
Gold Wing Tour DCT: Ultra Blue Metallic; Metallic Black
Recognized as both reliable and affordable, the Honda NC750X is practical and sleek. Powerful torque, quality suspension and excellent ride comfort make this adventure model ideal for riding backroads and getting off the beaten path, but it also has a well-earned reputation as a practical commuter king. The liquid-cooled, SOHC 8-valve parallel-twin-cylinder engine provides responsive performance in the low to midrange, and Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) is standard on both manual-transmission and automatic Dual Clutch Transmission models (DCT), providing more precise rear-wheel control. Find adventure, performance and utility, all in a single, versatile machine.
Developed according to a “Relax and Excite” design theme, the Rebel 1100 ABS meets the wide-ranging needs of almost any modern cruiser rider. A forward-looking midsize cruiser, this adaptable and modern machine is available with Honda’s advanced automatic Dual Clutch Transmission or a manual gearbox, and a long list of Honda Accessories are offered. Whether riders are “cruising” or out for an adrenaline-filled ride through thrilling curves, the high-performance, water-cooled parallel-twin engine and carefully developed geometry make for dynamic and comfortable handling. The Rebel 1100’s acceleration and cornering prowess are also impressive, as is its clean, no-nonsense styling.
MSRP
Rebel 1100 ABS: $9,399
Rebel 1100 ABS DCT: $9,999
Colors: Metallic Black; Bordeaux Red Metallic; Pearl Stallion Brown
With its extreme, chopper-style looks, clean design and long wheelbase, the Fury is a rolling work of art, but it also boasts the functionality and finish that one would expect from a Honda. The 1,312cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine puts out waves of torque and a throaty-but-appealing exhaust note, but its fuel-injection, twin counter-balancers and shaft drive keep things smooth and reliable. The hard-tail look and raked-out front end are matched with adjustable suspension front and rear, delivering stable but nimble handling.
Since its 2003 introduction, Honda’s CBR600RR has been a popular supersport machine, equally capable as a track-day weapon and for weekend outings on local twisty backroads. Backed by a racing heritage that includes eight World Supersport titles (nine if you count its CBR600F predecessor), the CBR600RR returns for the 2022 model year, its inline four achieving high-revving power and its Showa suspension and responsive chassis delivering a nimble, comfortable ride. Available with or without ABS.
Jack Miller Confirms That He Will Compete In The Australian Superbike Championship At The Bend Motorsport Park
Jack Miller will compete in the last round of the Australian Superbike Championship
The final round will be held at The Bend Motorsport Park in South Australia from the 3rd – 5th December
Jack Miller will compete on board the 2021 Ducati Paniagle V4 R
Jack Miller has confirmed that he will compete in the final round of the Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK).
Miller will return to Australia after the last round of the MotoGP Championship in Valencia and will travel to South Australia in order to compete at The Bend Motorsport Park on the 3rd – 5th December.
With two Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix cancelled over recent years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, racing fans will finally be able to see and cheer the Australian hero on home soil.
Competing on board the 2021 Ducati Panigale V4 R, Jack Miller will line up aside fellow Australian Ducati Riders Oli Bayliss, Mike Jones and Wayne Maxwell across the two races over the course of the event.
Jack confirmed his participation in a statement “I am really excited to be able to have this opportunity and race the final round of Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK). I would love to say a massive thank you to the guys at Ducati for allowing me this opportunity amidst our busy testing schedule.
“To go and race in front of the Australian fans is a massive privilege and honour. Thank you the team at ASBK and Motorcycling Australia for their support at such short notice. I am also thankful to Ben Henry from DesmoSport Ducati for his help in the organisation. As you can imagine it has not been easy to try and organise everything from the other side of the world at such short notice, having Ben and Matty Macalpine there to help me organise most things, has been very easy.
“I am very excited to be able to race in front of the Australian fans at least one time this year, it is going to be fantastic. I look forward to seeing everyone there!”
Motorcycling Australia CEO, Peter Doyle, said he was ecstatic to have Jack Miller joining the Grand Finale of the mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul.
“Having Australian MotoGP sensation Jack Miller compete in the ASBK is further testament to the tough and highly competitive nature of our ASBK Championship which is one of the best national superbike championships in the world,” Mr Doyle said.
“Australian race fans have been starved of on track MotoGP action here for two years due to COVID, but to now have their Aussie hero in Jack Miller come home and race ASBK, we are sure fans will flock to the ASBK Grand Finale at The Bend in South Australia.”
The final round will be open to spectators and with travel restrictions set to ease for South Australia over coming weeks, this event will be a must see for motorcycle racing fans.
Tickets for the Grand Finale are now on sale through Ticketek.
The ASBK Grand Finale will operate under a COVIDSafe Plan in accordance with SA Government regulations, and all interstate travelers, volunteers and race fans will be required to be double vaccinated for entry into South Australia.
For those fans who are unable to be trackside, you can catch all the fantastic action through our ASBK TV partners SBS, FOXSPORTS Australia, Sky Sport NZ and via ASBK TV Live Stream.
Keep up to date with the latest news on the mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul via www.asbk.com.au and following ASBK on Facebook and Instagram. You can also join our ASBK mailing list at www.asbk.com.au
Last month, MotoAmerica, following the lead of the FIM Supersport World Championship, announced proposed new technical rules for its 2022 Supersport Championship.
Under the new rules, the class, which has traditionally been contested by riders on 599cc and 636cc inline four-cylinder motorcycles, will now be open to the 955cc V-Twin Ducati Panigale V2, the 798cc inline three-cylinder MV Agusta F3, and the 765cc inline three-cylinder Triumph Street Triple 765 RS.
The new machines will be required to use control electronics packages and be subject to restrictions, including prescribed engine maps and rev limits, to limit their performance, while the 599cc and 636cc machines will be allowed to add aftermarket camshafts, aftermarket velocity stacks, and have some light cylinder head modifications to bring the level of their engine performance closer to that of the new machines.
According to MotoAmerica COO Chuck Aksland, MotoAmerica will constantly evaluate the performance of the different machines during the 2022 season and then make adjustments to the balancing parameters and rules governing the various machines after every third round or more often if it is deemed necessary.
We did a question and answer session about the changes to the Supersport class with Aksland and MotoAmerica Technical Director Tige Daane on October 11 HERE.
To get reaction to the new Supersport technical rules we reached out to riders and teams that participated in the 2021 MotoAmerica Supersport Championship. We spoke to Landers Racing Team Owner Stoney Landers and riders Nolan Lamkin and Benjamin Smith and published their reactions on this website on November 4 HERE.
We followed that up by getting more reaction from BARTCON Racing Team Owner Colin Barton, Supersport race winner Gabriel Da Silva, Westby Racing Team Manager Chuck Giacchetto, and Altus Motorsports Team Owner George Nassaney on November 8. Read their reactions HERE.
Now, here is the fifth part of our series on the new-for-2022 MotoAmerica Supersport rules and class structure and the third round of reactions from stakeholders in the MotoAmerica paddock.
Ducati North America CEO Jason Chinnock. Photo by David Swarts.
Jason Chinnock, CEO of Ducati North America said in a press release, “We support broadening motorcycle racing in North America and the partnership with the Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati New York team along with Josh Herrin will pilot our racing heritage into the new era of the [MotoAmerica] Supersport class. The expansion of our presence in the series is good for our customers, fans, and all involved as we work together to grow the sport of American road racing.”
Attack Performance owner Richard Stanboli (left) with rider Josh Herrin (right). Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
“I don’t know if staying status quo all the time is such a good thing, and turning the cart upside down isn’t always a good thing either,” said team owner Richard Stanboli, whose Attack Performance is the official U.S. distributor for Yamaha GYTR parts for the YZF-R6 and other Yamaha models. Stanboli has also fielded several riders and motorcycles in AMA Pro Supersport and Daytona SportBike as well as MotoAmerica Supersport classes over the years, in addition to his Fresh N’ Lean Attack Performance Yamaha Superbike team. “Sometimes we’ve had to take a few lumps before we go forward. If it means getting more involvement from other manufacturers I see the long-term benefit, because more manufacturer involvement forces other manufacturers to get involved.
“You’ve got to look at the long game, not always…’Man, this is going to screw me up for a few grand in camshafts this year!’ Camshafts last a couple of seasons easy. The long-term benefit of having more manufacturers involved is other manufacturers see it and feel like they need to get involved. The [manufacturers] who are going to be weak and shy away are going to be weak and shy away anyway. You’re not going to save those guys. That’s their five-year plan, to duck out. So, screw them! Move along. I think more involvement is better even if we have to take a few lumps.
“I don’t think that dumbing down to the current standard [MotoAmerica Supersport motorcycle performance] is possible for some of the stuff that they’re doing. I was talking to [one Supersport team owner] who said, ‘Why can’t we dumb it all down to the current [performance level].’ Here’s the main reason: MotoAmerica is not capable of dumbing it down. All that stuff is done at the FIM/Dorna/World Supersport level. They are the guys keeping the standard, and that standard gets adjusted based on what they see on the racetracks. [MotoAmerica] doesn’t have that capability. We [Attack Performance] do. If somebody paid us we could go through and map every single motorcycle and they would all be overlapping perfectly. I trust that the FIM is doing their homework and making those decisions.
“The Supersport rules they have in FIM right now is World Supersport. This is why we need to bring our level up to match what is currently being raced over there. Otherwise, there won’t be parity. They have a little more than we do [in World Supersport], but they didn’t want to give us everything that they have, [like] ported heads. So, they’re matching those big-bore [Next Generation] bikes to match what they’ve been running for a number of years. That’s their standard. So, if we leave our stuff to the lowest level, then you’re going to have to have Tige and those guys who are already short-handed and don’t have the experience or the knowledge to be able to do the pairing [balancing]. So, I don’t think it’s possible to go down to our level. I think we have to go up to the standard that’s worldwide.
“I’ve gone over this in my head quite a bit. What are the plusses and minuses? And is it good for the long term? I’d have to say it’s good for the long term IF they get other manufacturers involved, which it sounds like they are. Triumph has a package available. Ducati is more involved now. Without those rules you wouldn’t have Ducati involved in that class.”
N2 Racing Team Manager Shiloh Salopek seated next to Junior Cup rider Blake Davis. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Shiloh Salopek is the Team Manager of N2 Racing, which announced on October 14 that it was planning to field Kevin Olmedo on a Yamaha YZF-R6 in MotoAmerica Supersport, including the Daytona 200, in 2022. N2 Racing raced in the 2020 MotoAmerica Supersport Championship with Nate Minster and Xavier Zayat.
Asked if MotoAmerica shared its 2022 Supersport plans with her prior to the official announcement of the changes to the class and technical rules, Salopek said, “Not at all.”
As far as her feelings about the new changes to the 2022 technical rules, Salopek said, “I think the biggest thing is the cost. I know MotoAmerica talks about making racing affordable is their main focus, but because we are Yamaha-backed and -supported, to make the R6 competitive with the new models – and if you’re going to do it you want to be as competitive as possible – we’re going to have to spend almost $5,000 per engine. And you can’t just have one engine.
“We signed on with Kevin [Olmedo] and made a contract with him at a certain price point, but then we were blindsided with another price point. We’re going to make it work because we love the sport and we want to see it grow. We’re going to do the engines. We’re going to be competitive, but we were kind of blindsided. It kind of takes away from them saying they’re trying to make racing affordable, in my opinion.”
Because official Yamaha GYTR race kits parts must be pre-ordered by the few distributors far in advance, they are not easy to get quickly. “They’re [GYTR parts] impossible to get,” said Salopek. “We have two sets on order from Attack Performance, but they said [they won’t be available until] February. Tige and those guys have said they want to keep the money in the U.S. and support U.S. companies, but to be honest I had to go and get my kits from overseas because I need them. We need to test the engines and make sure they’re reliable.”
Asked if she was concerned about the inclusion of the new, big-bore Twins and Triples into the Supersport class, Salopek said, “I was frustrated with the additional models, at first, but as long as they do what they say and limit them correctly and quickly I’m not concerned. I’m confident in my team, our motorcycles, our chassis, and the abilities of our crew. I’m not concerned that we won’t be competitive as long as they do what they say and it’s done fast and correctly.”
Chris Ulrich (right) with 2021 MotoAmerica Supersport Champion Sean Dylan Kelly. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Chris Ulrich is Vice President of Racing Operations for Team Hammer, which raced as M4 ECSTAR Suzuki in 2021, the team’s 41st consecutive year of competing as a professional racing team.
“There’s some fear of the unknown about how well the balancing will work,” Ulrich said. “And the bike specs are going to increase costs. On the other hand, it could be good because maybe additional manufacturers will bring more money into the class.
“But we’re all in. Our family business is motorcycle racing, and we’ve had a lot of success in what is now called the Supersport class. We can’t control what happens with the rules, but we’re going to race and try to do our best no matter what the rules are.
“We’re already building racebikes to suit the new rules. We will continue racing in the class and we’re going to continue providing technical support to other teams and riders. We’ll have bikes and riders racing in the Daytona 200 and in MotoAmerica Supersport, as well as in MotoAmerica Superbike, Superbike Cup, and Stock 1000. Racing is what we do, and we’ll see everybody at the races!”
The MT-10 is already the undisputed King of Yamaha’s Hyper Naked range.
Since it arrived on the scene this blockbuster of a motorcycle has gained the
utmost respect from everyone who has ridden it – as well as anyone who has
seen it in action.
It’s R1-derived high-torque CP4 engine is the most remarkable powerplant that Yamaha has ever fitted to a naked bike. Ultra-aggressive naked styling gives the MT-10 the most distinctive and intimidating looks.
And the lightweight aluminium chassis delivers class-leading levels of agility and stability that make this one of the most exciting and rewarding motorcycles ever built. Now the next evolution of the MT-10 is about to arrive.
With more power, more control and more adrenaline, it’s been built to take the Hyper Naked experience to the next level, and reinforce the MT-10’s reputation as the definitive Master of Torque.
The MT story
When Yamaha launched the MT-01 in 2007 no one could have predicted how this unique machine was about to change the face of the motorcycle market in Europe. With its naked body, high-torque engine and distinctive look, it stood out from the crowd. It was the beginning of a new era in the motorcycle world that really took off with the launch of the phenomenally successful MT-09 in 2013.
European riders loved what they saw – a naked sport motorcycle with a very special character that gave them the torque, agility and feel that they were looking for.
With the crossplane concept engine technology, an aggressive stance and
stripped down bodywork, the MT Hyper Naked range grew to become Yamaha’s most successful range of motorcycles.
With over 290,000 sold in Europe, the MT line up has brought a new excitement to the street, and the smaller capacity models have been successful in attracting a whole new generation of people into the world of two wheels.
From the new MT-10 through to the MT-125, Yamaha’s Hyper Naked range is designed to give every rider the opportunity to be a part of the most exciting and accessible movement in European motorcycling.
Yamaha has increased power output and decreased emissions output of the MT-10’s CP4 engine. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor Europe.
New MT-10: More power. More control. More adrenaline
Updated EU5 998cc CP4 engine
The next evolution of the MT-10 is equipped with a refined version of the legendary liquid-cooled CP4 crossplane engine that is closely related to the legendary R1. Developing increased power and producing a stronger feeling of torque, this is the most powerful and most technologically advanced engine ever seen on a Yamaha Hyper Naked motorcycle.
The updated 2022 design benefits from lightweight aluminium forged pistons, offset con rods and direct-plated cylinders in order to ensure maximum efficiency, and has a number of new model-specific features that are designed to enhance the feeling of torque.
To boost the road-focused midrange, steel conrods are used rather than the titanium components used on the R1, and the moment of inertia at the crankshaft is increased.
Fuel injection settings have been changed for an even higher level of linear torque between 4,000 and 8,000 rpm – and the design of the intake and exhaust systems is also modified to give the MT-10 a more thrilling and unique 360° Torque Emotion character.
Fuel economy is improved, CO2 levels reduced, and this more powerful engine meets EU5 regulations.
New air intakes on each side of the MT-10 contribute to the increase in power and a new intake sound. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor Europe.
Tuned intake sound
The sound made by any motorcycle – whether intake or exhaust – is one of its most defining characteristics, and Yamaha’s engineers have focused on creating a unique soundtrack for the MT-10 by designing an all-new intake system.
With an uneven firing interval of 270°-180°-90°-180° the MT-10’s CP4 crossplane technology engine emits a distinctive intake and exhaust noise characterized by a rumbling growl at low rpm and a high pitched roar at high rpm.
Yamaha’s development team has custom-made a new tuned intake sound for the 2022 model by the use of an all-new air cleaner box that is equipped with three intake ducts with different lengths and cross sections.
Each duct produces a different intake sound, and they are designed to resonate harmoniously at varying engine speeds to create a unique intake roar that enhances the overall riding experience.
In particular, the tuned intake is specifically designed to produce a sensual roar between 4,000 rpm and 8,000 rpm that reinforces the MT-10’s enormous torque feeling when accelerating hard or powering out of a turn.
The big-torque experience is heightened by the new Acoustic Amplifier Grilles that are positioned on the front left and front right of the 17-litre fuel tank. These amplifiers transmit the tuned induction sound directly to the rider, and the vibration of the grilles themselves also contributes to the thrill and excitement experienced when the rider opens the throttle.
The 2022 Yamaha MT-10 comes with a new titanium exhaust system. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor Europe.
Titanium exhaust
A new titanium exhaust is used on the MT-10, and this lightweight system features a newly designed titanium downpipes and muffler. Like the new tuned intake, the exhaust has been designed to emit a deep and distinctive sound that emphasizes the bike’s uneven firing sequence.
At lower engine speeds the exhaust sound is dominant, while the tuned intake roar takes over from mid to high revs to create a wall of sound that stimulates the senses and heightens the thrilling acceleration and torque rich performance of the more powerful 2022 engine.
Compact and minimalist new exterior styling
Right from the launch of the very first MT-10, this flagship Hyper Naked has maintained its distinctive individuality and established a reputation for being one of the most aggressively styled bikes in the category.
The next evolution of the MT-10 continues this theme of individuality with a powerful and dignified new look that underlines the bike’s intense character and intimidating presence.
This has been achieved by removing any unnecessary bodywork elements and refocusing attention on this charismatic bike’s mechanical beauty.
The ‘face’ of every motorcycle is one of the most significant design elements, shaping the way that it is perceived and also influencing the pride of ownership and levels of riding enjoyment.
The new MT-10 has a completely new look with a more integrated feel that gives a more minimalist and imposing appearance.
Compact new twin-eye mono-focus LED headlights with separate high and low beam units provide excellent illumination and project a powerful and even beam with softer light at the edges.
LED position lights are situated above the headlights, and the new nose assembly transforms the looks of this flagship model and gives it an even more refined yet dominant look.
Mounted on both sides of the fuel tank cover, the enlarged ducts increase intake efficiency and contribute significantly towards the increased power output of the 2022 engine. As well as their mechanical functionality in delivering cool air to the fuel injection system, these intakes also visually highlight the outstanding power of the 998cc engine, and form an integral part of the bike’s new look.
Together with the Acoustic Amplifier Grilles located in the front of the fuel tank cover, the dual ducts emit the thrilling intake sound of the high-torque CP4 engine for the riders enjoyment.
With minimal overhang at the front end and a more compact LED taillight – combined with the compact new nose and new larger air intakes – the MT-10’s mass centralized design is taken to the extreme, giving a brutal and condensed side profile that leaves no doubt that this is the King of the MT line.
Improved ergonomics
The MT-10’s legendary versatility in almost any riding situation from urban streets through to twisty backroads and long haul trips – and even the occasional track day – has made it one of the most competent and desirable Hyper Naked bikes. For improved comfort together with greater freedom in adopting different riding styles, the 2022 model’s ‘rider triangle’ – the bar/footrest/seat relationship – has been improved.
The fuel tank cover is now smoother, giving a better feel when the rider grips the tank with their knees when braking or accelerating – and also allows greater mobility when shifting weight for corners. In addition the seat’s firmness has been modified for greater comfort, and the seat design has been modified.
The new MT-10 now comes with a Brembo radial front brake master cylinder. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor Europe.
Brembo radial master cylinder
The MT-10’s outstanding front braking system, features dual floating 320mm discs with 4 piston radial-mounted calipers – the same system as used on the R1. For 2022 a new Brembo radial brake master cylinder is featured, giving improved braking feel at the lever for increased controllability.
Yamaha Variable Speed Limiter
A key feature on the new MT-10 is the Yamaha Variable Speed Limiter (YVSL) that gives the rider the ability to set a top speed limit to suit various situations. As well as ensuring that public road speed limits are not accidentally exceeded, the system can also be useful when riding though unfamiliar areas or in adverse conditions.
A quickshifter is now standard on the 2022 Yamaha MT-10. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor Europe.
Quick Shift System
Previously available as an optional extra, the Quick Shift System (QSS) is now fitted as original equipment on the 2022 MT-10. By enabling smooth, clutchless shifting, this system makes full-on acceleration even more exciting – downshifting is also smoother and faster.
The 2022-model Yamaha MT-10 comes with a full-color dashboard and a conveniently located power outlet. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor Europe.
New 4.2” full-colour TFT display
The next evolution of the MT-10 comes fully equipped with an R1 derived 4.2” full-colour TFT display that features a clear and easy to read screen with all of the key information on view.
A menu switch on the right handlebar enables the rider to select which information is displayed, while the ‘Mode/Select’ switch on the left side of the handlebar can be used to change the intervention levels of the electronic rider aids, or where applicable, to turn them on or off.
APSG ride-by-wire throttle with four power delivery modes (PWR)
A new Accelerator Position Sensor Grip (APSG) ride by wire twistgrip unit works with the Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T) to give the MT-10 rider increased controllability when accelerating. This advanced system provides the optimum intake air volume to the combustion chamber, ensuring that the rider experiences smooth torque characteristics over the MT-10’s wide rpm range.
The rider can also adjust the throttle response characteristics using the PWR (Power delivery mode) switch.
PWR-1 is suited to aggressive trackday riding; PWR-2 and PWR-3 deliver a
smoother throttle response that enable the rider to experience the bike’s
linear torque, and PWR-4 is a softer response that is best used when surface
conditions are wet or slippery.
6-axis IMU with rider aids
The new MT-10 is now equipped with a state of the art 6-axis IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) that was originally developed for the R1, and has now evolved into a smaller and lighter unit.
The IMU features two sensors that measure 3-axis angular velocity: pitch, roll and yaw – and three-axis acceleration: forward/backward, up/down and left/right. This data is transmitted to the ECU which activates the bike’s electronic rider aids which give unprecedented levels of machine controllability by intervening to prevent wheel lock ups, loss of traction or wheelies.
Lean sensitive Traction Control System
The MT-10 benefits from one of the most advanced traction control systems to be featured on a Hyper Naked.
Sensors detect the relative speeds of the front and rear wheels, and when rear wheel traction loss is detected the ECU momentarily cuts drive to maintain traction and stability.
Using data from the 6-axis IMU, this new lean sensitive traction control system is able to adjust the degree of intervention to correspond with the bike’s lean angle, with intervention increasing as lean angle increases.
A total of five intervention levels are available.
Slide Control system (SCS)
For increased cornering controllability and confidence the MT-10 is equipped with the latest Slide Control System (SCS). When the sensors predict that the rear wheel is about to slide sideways, the ECU intervenes and reduces drive to the rear wheel until the chassis is stable. The system uses pre-set intervention levels, but the rider can adjust the levels or turn the system off.
LIFT control system (LIF)
When sensor data tells the IMU that front wheel lift is imminent the ECU cuts power to the rear wheel until the machine is stable again. As with some of the other rider aids, the intervention levels are pre-set, but the rider can adjust them or turn them off.
Engine Brake Management (EBM)
EBM controls the degree of engine braking force when decelerating, and gives the rider a choice of two levels. Level 1 gives a high level of engine braking, while Level 2 gives minimal engine braking, enabling the rider to choose the most suitable level for the prevailing riding conditions. Modes are pre-set, but can be adjusted by the rider or turned off.
Brake Control (BC)
Brake Control (BC) is designed to give increased controllability during mid corner riding, and independently modulates and controls the pressure being applied to the front brake and rear brake.
The rider can select one of two modes: BC1 mode is a standard ABS-active mode, while BC2 is designed to operate in mid corner emergency braking situations.
Yamaha Ride Control (YRC)
While all of the electronic rider aids can be adjusted independently, Yamaha Ride Control (YRC) gives the MT-10 owner the ability to create an all-inclusive system which can switch the settings for the traction control, SCS, QSS, LIF, EBM and BC systems all at once.
YRC is available in four different modes that are designed to suit a variety of riding conditions.
Mode A is for sporty riding; Mode B is for a wide range of conditions; Mode C is tailored for urban usage; Mode D is for rainy or adverse conditions.
The YRC’s four modes have pre-set values, but the MT-10 rider can choose to reset the various different mode settings to match their own preferences.
Lightweight Deltabox chassis
Derived from the class-leading R1, the aluminium Deltabox chassis is one of the lightest, strongest and sharpest handling designs in any category. Developed to handle 200 HP this high-tech frame uses the CP4 engine as a fully stressed member to keep weight to an absolute minimum.
Equipped with a long aluminium swingarm but with a compact wheelbase of 1405mm, the Deltabox chassis delivers stable, light and agile handling in a wide variety of low and high speed conditions.
Optimized front and rear suspension
The MT-10’s advanced suspension system uses optimized model-specific settings that are designed to provide precise handling and confident roadholding, whether in busy urban streets or powering hard through a set of bends in the mountains.
The 43mm fully adjustable KYB front forks offer 120mm travel and can be set up to match personal riding preferences.
These high specification forks are complemented by a fully adjustable KYB rear shock that can be easily adjusted to handle varying loads and riding styles.
The MT-10 comes fitted with Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22 tires. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor Europe.
Bridgestone Battlax S22 tyres
The MT-10’s lightweight 5-spoke aluminium 17-inch wheels are fitted with the latest Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22 tyres.
A 120/70-ZR17 front tyre and a 190/55-ZR17 rear tyre provide outstanding levels of traction, and together with the sophisticated electronic rider aids, this package offers outstanding handling together with a remarkable degree of controllability in many different types of riding conditions.
MT-10 Key Features
More powerful EU5 998cc engine
Tuned intake sound
Titanium exhaust
Compact and functional new exterior styling
Improved ergonomics
Brembo radial master cylinder
Yamaha Variable Speed Limiter (YVSL)
Quick Shift System (QSS)
A&S clutch
New 4.2” full-colour TFT display
APSG ride-by-wire throttle with four power delivery modes (PWR)
6-axis IMU
Lean sensitive Traction Control System
Slide Control system (SCS)
Lift control system (LIF)
Engine Brake Management (EBM)
Brake Control (BC)
Yamaha Ride Control (YRC)
R1-derived aluminium Deltabox chassis
Long aluminium swingarm
Compact 1,405mm wheelbase
43mm fully adjustable KYB front forks
Fully adjustable KYB rear shock
Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22 tyres
MT-10 colours, availability and price
Yamaha will offer the new MT-10 in three colour options. Cyan Storm evolves the DSOJ story in an exciting new direction offering a fresh take on the technical and trend focused colour way. Icon Blue is a dynamic new colour inspired by the factory’s race bikes, and features blue body panels and blue wheel rims. Tech Black projects an understated and moody look, and features an all-black body with black wheel rims.
Deliveries to European Yamaha dealers will commence from the February 2022. Prices vary per region, so please contact the national Yamaha distributor for full information.
Yamaha Genuine Accessories and Hyper Naked Apparel
Yamaha has developed a range of kits and individual Genuine Accessories that enable MT owners to easily personalize their motorcycle with high quality parts that have been developed to give an excellent fit and a premium finish.
Customers can order the kits and accessories before collecting their new motorcycle, and have them fitted by their Yamaha dealer. All of the items in the kits can also be purchased individually, and in addition to the kit items, the Genuine Accessory list includes everything from Akrapovic Exhaust Systems and levers through to grip heaters and billet handlebar ends.
Yamaha’s extensive MT clothing line includes male and female jackets and pants, as well as a selection of hoodies, T-shirts, gloves and a range of CE-approved riding gear. The MT collection is constantly evolving, and new products are added throughout the year.
MyGarage app
Yamaha’s MyGarage app is the quick and easy way for customers to build a virtual version of any MT model with a range of Genuine Accessories while sitting at home with their smart phone or laptop. The free App allows users to add and remove accessories to create their ideal MT, and the finished result can be viewed in 3D from every angle.
MyGarage takes the guesswork out of choosing which accessories to fit, and to make things even easier the customer’s final selection can be emailed to their chosen Yamaha dealer who will fit the selected Genuine Accessories to their new MT.
For full information on Yamaha Genuine Accessories and Apparel or MyGarage please visit www.yamaha-motor.eu
MyRide
Yamaha’s free MyRide app gives all MT riders the chance to get more enjoyment and information out of every ride. Available for iOS and Android devices, it tracks and stores every route covered, and enables users to create their own story and add pictures which can be shared on social media.
The #WorldSBKFinale: Indonesia hosts fierce 2021 title race at all-new Mandalika
One of the greatest seasons in memory is coming to a close, but does one more twist lie ahead in an unforgettable 2021 WorldSBK Championship battle?
35 races, 12 circuits, five different winners but only one thing to left to decide: who will take the 2021 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship? The final round of a sensational season is on the horizon, with all the twists and turns up to this point making for a grand finale. Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK) leads the way into the Pirelli Indonesian Round, held at the all-new Pertamina Mandalika International Street Circuit on the picturesque Lombok Island. Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) is second, 30 points adrift but has three races to keep his crown for a seventh straight season in what would be one of the greatest sporting comebacks ever seen. In a rivalry that has raged all season, this is the final hurdle: Razgatlioglu vs Rea and the showdown that’s been on everyone’s lips.
THE HEAVYWEIGHTS: it all comes down to this
It’s been a phenomenal season of racing, but Toprak Razgatlioglu has raised the bar; despite not winning until the ninth race of 2021, he’s has racked up 13 wins and an astounding 28 podiums. He’s cemented himself as the rider to beat but the results are just the fruit of his hard work, as well as his never-give-in attitude. Never knowing when he’s beaten and fighting with resilient spirit, the 25-year-old Turk is on the verge of becoming World Champion, the first for Yamaha since Ben Spies in 2009. Will Toprak and indeed Turkey hold on for a first WorldSBK crown? His teammate, Andrea Locatelli – already rookie of the year – hopes to get fourth overall in the standings, being just eight points behind Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati), whilst also aiming to help Toprak to the title and Yamaha to the Manufacturers’ Championship, as they lead Ducati by 16 points.
At Kawasaki, there’s still a chance of retaining the crown. Jonathan Rea’s season started strongly with a 100th win in WorldSBK at Aragon and he, like Toprak, has demonstrated great consistency and has won 11 races and also taken 28 podiums. However, costly errors at Donington Park, Most and notably Portimao, have put Rea on the backfoot. Despite this, Rea remains in touch and is in a position to pounce if Razgatlioglu can’t capitalise. Rea’s never been in this position before and the 34-year-old Ulsterman will do everything in his power to keep the crown. Teammate Alex Lowes will be wingman, as he hopes to back-up Rea as both aim to give Kawasaki an opportunity of retaining their Manufacturers’ title. Lowes himself has a chance of sixth overall, 23 points behind Michael van der Mark (BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team).
THE SPOILERS: fighting for their own cause
With the Riders’ Championship not featuring a Ducati rider, Scott Redding (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) may well be the one who can ride at ease the most. He’s currently third in the standings, something that at the bare minimum he will hold on to, but he’s also not too far away from Rea to take second. 36 is the gap between Rea and Redding, meaning Rea has to score two more points than Redding in Race 1 to lock the Englishman out. Redding and teammate Michael Ruben Rinaldi have the job of keep Yamaha honest in the Manufacturers’ Championship too and may be the spoilers at the front and amidst the title battle. Redding hopes to leave Ducati on a high and win races, whilst Rinaldi looks to secure fourth overall, a respectable result after his first year in the factory team.
Whilst the battle for fourth is mainly a two-horse race, Michael van der Mark has a mathematical chance of snatching it, something that really would be sensational in his first year aboard the all-new BMW M 1000 RR. 42 points back, van der Mark can’t achieve that fourth place without podiums but with a threat of rain looming large, the 29-year-old Dutchman is a contender. Coming back for what could be his final round in WorldSBK, with no clear future on the horizon, Tom Sykes (BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) aims to sign off his three years at BMW well and take advantage of a neutral track, something which could see both BMWs fighting for good positions. BMW have one hand on fourth overall in the Manufacturers’ standings, something they aim to consolidate in Race 1.
Team HRC head to Indonesia after announcing their 2022 line-up of Iker Lecuona and Xavi Vierge. Current riders Alvaro Bautista (Team HRC) and teammate Leon Haslam hope to end their season on a high; Bautista comes into the round after a tricky San Juan, but the bike has had podiums in 2021. The Spaniard’s final weekend with Team HRC will see him hope that a good showing proves that two years of development paid off. Bautista can snatch ninth place from Axel Bassani (Motocorsa Racing) in the title and has a mathematical chance of seventh overall, making Mandalika vital. Teammate Haslam hasn’t got anything signed for 2022, so like Sykes, this weekend has the potential to be his last one. Regardless, the ‘Pocket Rocket’ aims to build on four top ten results in the last six races to fend off Chaz Davies (Team GoEleven) who is just three points behind.
THE BATTLE OF THE INDEPENDENTS: Gerloff and Bassani set for their own showdown
As well as all the excitement in the factory teams, the battle for the Best Independent rider is still on and is tightening; Garrett Gerloff (GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) leads the way by 14 points from Axel Bassani, but the rookie Italian is snapping at the American’s heals. Bassani was in the podium battle in San Juan and will hope to capitalise at the new Mandalika venue. Bassani is also in contention for a top seven overall, with Gerloff tied on points with Alex Lowes. Behind Bassani is Chaz Davies in 13th overall, having missed two rounds through injury. This will be Davies’ last weekend in WorldSBK, with the British rider hoping to end a career that’s seen him win 32 races and finish runner-up three times in WorldSBK in style. Kohta Nozane (GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) is 14th overall as he faces the final round of his rookie season, four points ahead of Tito Rabat (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing).
THE REST: racing for a strong end to 2021
Lucas Mahias (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) isn’t present, and neither is Eugene Laverty, who has been a substitute for Tom Sykes in recent rounds, meaning there’s chances for Isaac Viñales (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) and Christophe Ponsson (Gil Motor Sport – Yamaha) to improve their positions overall in the Championship standings, with Viñales growing in confidence as the year has gone on. Leandro ‘Tati’ Mercado (MIE Racing Honda Team) is 21st in the standings and will aim to finish his season strongly, whilst Samuele Cavalieri (Barni Racing Team) will likewise have the same objectives. Finally, Loris Cresson (OUTDO TPR Team Pedercini Racing) is out of action after being declared unfit, with new rider Oliver Konig graduating from WorldSSP300, where he was a podium finisher earlier in the year at Most, to lead the team.
Join the conversation on social media with the #WorldSBKFinale hashtag, and watch the climax to this staggering season in style with the WorldSBK VideoPass!
An extra special awards ceremony brings the curtain down on another spectacular season, including one final surprise…
Monday, 15 November 2021
Already a legend, Valentino Rossi (Petronas Yamaha SRT) has been inducted into the MotoGP™ Hall of Fame and is now an official MotoGP™ Legend! The nine-time World Champion was surprised with the honour at the FIM MotoGP™ Awards Ceremony, adding to a roll call of celebrations throughout the day as he hangs up his racing leathers.
The emotional lap of honour after the race and hero’s welcome were only the start on Sunday, and those came after a weekend already painted yellow in the number 46’s honour. Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta presented Rossi with the MotoGP™ Legend trophy on the stage, celebrating 26 seasons of history made and hearts captured around the world. Nine World Championships, 115 wins and 235 podiums across all classes are incredible numbers, but the legend is even more than those.
The Italian joins a long list of greats that have been made MotoGP™ Legends that includes Giacomo Agostini, Mick Doohan, Geoff Duke, Wayne Gardner, Mike Hailwood, Daijiro Kato, Eddie Lawson, Anton Mang, Angel Nieto, Wayne Rainey, Phil Read, Jim Redman, Kenny Roberts, Jarno Saarinen, Kevin Schwantz, Barry Sheene, Marco Simoncelli, Freddie Spencer, Casey Stoner, John Surtees, Carlo Ubbiali, Alex Crivillé, Franco Uncini, Marco Lucchinelli, Randy Mamola, Kork Ballington, Dani Pedrosa, Stefan Dörflinger, Jorge ‘Aspar’ Martinez and the late, great Nicky Hayden.
#GrazieVale!
Valentino Rossi, MotoGP™ Legend: “I always think of this day like a nightmare, because it’s the end of the a long career and I think it would be in Valencia but in the end I enjoyed it a lot so I have to thank everyone, everyone who has worked with me, the whole paddock, the other riders… it was an unforgettable day and I enjoyed it. It was a long career, and always a pleasure.”
Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna Sports: “The only thing I can say to Vale is thank you very much. It’s been amazing since 1997 in Malaysia, we saw a guy doing fantastic races but also very special for so many reasons. We started to talk with him and since that time, everything we’ve done together, with everyone who works in MotoGP it’s been amazing.
“First of all Valentino has been an incredible rider, even yesterday, at 42, he was within tenths of Fabio. But also his personality, the situation he’s helped us to create, the Safety Commission, it’s something very special. These are all the words I can say. Grazie, Valentino!”
FIM MotoGP™ Awards Ceremony brings 2021 to a close
Sunday at the Gran Premio Motul de la Comunitat Valenciana is a day that will go down in history for a few reasons and the FIM MotoGP™ Awards ceremony brought the curtain down on the season. It also hosted the induction of a new MotoGP™ Legend as nine-time World Champion Valentino Rossi (Petronas Yamaha SRT) was inducted into the Hall of Fame as a surprise, the Italian going from legend to Legend.
The Champions and winners in 2021 also took centre stage, including – of course – newly-crowned MotoGP™ World Champion Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP), Remy Gardner (Red Bull KTM Ajo) fresh from Moto2™ glory and the Moto3™ history maker himself, rookie World Champion Pedro Acosta.
Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta (left) and FIM President Jorge Viegas (center) present Fabio Quartararo (right) with the MotoGP World Championship trophy. Photo courtesy Dorna.
The 2021 Awards were hosted by Gavin Emmett and Andrea Schlager, with FIM President Jorge Viegas and Dorna Sports CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta in attendance to present the range of awards throughout the evening to all the winners this season.
Quartararo was the MotoGP™ main event as he received his trophy after making history as the first French premier class World Champion, and he picked up the BMW M Award for best qualifier in the MotoGP™ class once again. Francesco Bagnaia (Ducat Lenovo Team) was on stage as runner up, and 2020 Champion Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar) was once again in the top three.
The Tissot Pole of Poles winners this season were Bagnaia, Raul Fernandez and Romano Fenati (Sterilgarda Max Racing Team) in MotoGP™, Moto2™ and Moto3™ respectively, and they picked up their prizes.
The top three in the FIM Enel MotoE™ World Cup were also honoured: Cup winner Jordi Torres (Pons Racing 40), runner up Dominique Aegerter (Dynavolt IntactGP) and third overall Matteo Ferrari (Indonesian E-Racing Gresini MotoE), with Aegerter receiving his award remotely.
The top Independent Team rider title went to Johann Zarco (Pramac Racing) after another season of consistent speed and excellence from the Frenchman, and this year’s MotoGP™ Rookie of the Year award was presented to his teammate Jorge Martin after a stunning debut for the Spaniard – including a first premier class win, a host of poles and another podium to round out the year too.
In Moto2™, Red Bull KTM Ajo’s Raul Fernandez, after breaking some of Marc Marquez’ records in the class, was crowned Rookie of the Year. In Moto3™, by definition it was also a clear winner as a rookie stormed the Championship: Pedro Acosta.
Ducati swept the Team and Constructor titles in the premier class, with the Bologna factory taking their highest number of podiums ever – and earlier in the day having taken their first ever 1-2-3. Ducati Lenovo Team were the Team Champions too. Kalex came out on top in Moto2™, and KTM in Moto3™.
The Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup winner David Alonso and FIM MiniGP World Series Champion Izan Rodriguez were also applauded for their seasons.
And so the curtain falls, and we bid farewell to a rider who sparked the soul of the sport. Ciao Vale, grazie – and let’s celebrate an incredible career before the lights go out in 2022 for more incredible racing!
End of an era for Rossi and PETRONAS Yamaha SRT in Valencia
Valentino Rossi tenth and Andrea Dovizioso 12th in PETRONAS Yamaha SRT’s final MotoGP race
It was the end of an era today at the Gran Premio de la Comunitat Valenciana, with Valentino Rossi ending the final MotoGP race of his career tenth. Team-mate Andrea Dovizioso made it a double points finish for PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team in their final race, crossing the finish line 12th.
Rossi had a good start to his final MotoGP race, claiming two places in the opening corner to go eighth. Dropping back to tenth on lap 4, the Italian demonstrated good speed and pace throughout the season finale. Although he wasn’t able to close the gap to those in front, ‘Vale’ successfully defended his position and crossed the finish line for the final time tenth – bringing his amazing 26 years of Grand Prix racing to its conclusion.
Team-mate Dovizioso, who started 13th, also gained two places in the opening corners. The Italian had some early on-track battles, which pushed him down to 14th on the fifth lap. Mounting a recovery, he made it through to 12th before the midpoint of the race. With a gap to the riders ahead, ‘Dovi’ worked hard to reduce the deficit but ultimately wasn’t quite able to close up to those in front and crossed the line 12th.
The ValenciaGP signals the end of PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team’s three years in the MotoGP championship, where they achieved 12 pole positions, 16 podium finishes and 6 wins. The Malaysian squad were also Independent Team Champions in 2019 and 2020.
Razlan Razali
Team Principal
Today was an emotional day for the team, especially as it was Rossi’s last dance after a glorious 26 years. We are truly honoured that he has ended his career with us and it will go down in the history books that the last team he rode for was PETRONAS Yamaha SRT. At the same time it is the team’s final race as well and it was good that Andrea could finish inside the points in 12th as well. It has been a great three years, with great highs and lows. We have made tremendous achievements in that time though.
In Moto2 it was a great result for Xavi and Jake finished just outside of the points. Although we would have liked both riders to have been fighting towards the front, we are still happy overall. We wish them both the best of luck with their new ventures.
Unfortunately in Moto3 John wasn’t able to break into the top-ten today, but he did well to make his way from 15th to 11th. It was a shame that Darryn was not able to finish the race today and it’s not the way that he or the team wanted to finish this year. Again, we wish them both the best of luck for the future.
Johan Stigefelt
Team Director
We end these three years in MotoGP today and it has been a very interesting journey, from starting the team to achieving what we did. We’ve been second in the World Championship and had many race wins, podiums and pole positions. It has been a privilege to work with Valentino and Andrea this year and we have to be very proud of what we have done. We were able to build up a structure this big and this professional, with the support of PETRONAS and the other partners that believed in this project from the beginning.
I want to thank everybody who was involved in this project from the bottom of my heart, from the crew to sponsors and partners – just everybody. I’m sad that it’s finishing, but I only have good things to say about these years. This is how it is sometimes, so just thank you again.
Valentino Rossi (46) in action at Valencia. Photo courtesy PETRONAS Yamaha SRT.
Valentino Rossi
10th (+13.468)
I didn’t expect that it could be a weekend like this. I was very worried for this weekend because I didn’t know how I felt and there was a lot of pressure with many things to do. It was fantastic, I received a lot of positive energy from all the people in the paddock and I had a lot of great surprises: from seeing all my bikes on Thursday, to all the VR46 Academy riders with my helmets today. I’m also happy because I was able to be strong in both Qualifying yesterday and in the race today, finishing in the top-ten. I enjoyed it a lot and it was the best way to finish. I am in the top ten best riders in the world and it means everything, because this result will never change. I also enjoyed the celebrations after the race. It was a long career and I want to say thanks to everybody.
Andrea Dovizioso (04) in action at Valencia. Photo courtesy PETRONAS Yamaha SRT.
Andrea Dovizioso
12th (+16.534)
We were much closer than we have been in other races today, so I’m happy to finish the season with that speed. We also worked well to improve the bike under braking, which meant I could take different lines. It was good for me that I could follow ‘Vale’ [Rossi] and Franco [Morbidelli] to learn how they ride the Yamaha, as they are very experienced with it. I’m very happy with today and it was a good way to finish the season.
To be a team-mate of Rossi was strange, as I have always been in different teams to him, but it has been enjoyable. I tried to beat him but he was very strong and he always has something more to give in a race. It has been really nice to share the box with him at his final round and I feel lucky to have been part of it.
Honda Racing Corporation would like to extend their sincerest thanks to Valentino Rossi and wish him all the best for the next stage of his life as an illustrious 26-year Grand Prix career comes to a close.
Together with Honda HRC, Valentino Rossi took three straight premier class World Championships from 2001 to 2003, winning 31 of the 48 races in this period and establishing himself as a force in MotoGP.
After a strong premier class debut in 2000 aboard the Honda NSR500 where he finished second, Valentino Rossi went on to take the final premier class two-stroke title aboard the iconic Honda machine. A dominating season saw the Italian rider finish more than 100 points ahead of his nearest rival. During this 2001 season Rossi achieved a milestone for Honda as he took Honda’s 500th Grand Prix win with a thrilling ride at Suzuka. This title would see out the 500cc class and take the last of the NSR500’s ten World Championship titles and 132 wins.
For 2002, a new era began in the premier class as four-stroke 1000cc machines were introduced and Honda debuted the RC211V with Valentino Rossi inside the Repsol Honda Team. Missing the top two just once that season, Rossi again went on to take the title and cementing the combination of the #46 and the RC211V as a force in the premier class. In its debut season the new RC211V, with its dominating V5 engine layout, won 14 of the 16 races and was on the podium at each event.
2003 followed a similar pattern as Rossi finished on the podium in all sixteen Grands Prix that season and claimed a third straight title with Honda. One of the standout moments of the 2003 season was at the Australian Grand Prix, Rossi pushing the RC211V to overcome a ten second penalty. Eventually finishing 15 seconds ahead of second place, Rossi won the race despite the penalty. The season, and his time with Honda, ended in style with a special one-off livery at the final race of the year in Valencia. Often referred to as the ‘Austin Powers bike’, this final Rossi era RC211V remains one of the most memorable liveries of his career. 2003 would also be Valentino Rossi’s most dominant season in the premier class as he averaged 22.3 points per race.
The RC211V would take a total of 48 wins, 33 of them belonging to Rossi, before the RC212V was introduced in 2007. Alongside the Italian, Nicky Hayden also claimed a World Championship aboard the machine during the thrilling 2006 season.
Since leaving Honda, Rossi has continued to be a fierce competitor and rival on the track. His level of competition has continued to help push Honda HRC and its riders to achieve their best on track. Now his Grand Prix racing career comes to an end, but ‘The Doctor’ leaves behind an incredible history and a defining chapter in motorcycle racing.
Honda Racing Corporation would like to thank Valentino Rossi for his collaboration, cooperation and competition over the years and wish him all the best as he begins a new stage of his life away from the circuit.
Bagnaia victorious in Valencia, Rossi bids farewell in 10th
A first ever Ducati 1-2-3 and an emotional goodbye for the ‘Doctor’ round out 2021 with a bang
Francesco Bagnaia (63) leads Jorge Martin (89) and Jack Miller (43) at Valencia. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Sunday, 14 November 2021
Che spettacolo! For the fourth time in 2021, Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) took victory as the Italian led home a historic Ducati 1-2-3 at the Gran Premio Motul de la Comunitat Valenciana, Pecco once again perfectly-poised as this time he saw the flag just ahead of Jorge Martin (Pramac Racing) and Jack Miller (Ducati Lenovo Team) for a Bologna lockout. The race will forever be remembered as Valentino Rossi’s (Petronas Yamaha SRT) last dance too, and The Doctor delivered a P10 in his farewell MotoGP™ appearance in front of a packed Circuit Ricardo Tormo crowd. Pecco also dedicated the win to his mentor.
Danilo Petrucci (Tech3 KTM Factory Racing) saw the chequered flag in P17 as the Italian premier class race winner also says goodbye to Grand Prix racing in an emotional Sunday in Valencia, and teammate Iker Lecuona heads for WorldSBK after scoring a final point of the year.
Rewinding to lights out and polesitter Martin grabbed the holeshot into Turn 1 as fourth place Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar) got a great start to get the better of Bagnaia, with Miller slotting into second. Rossi made a good start and was up a place into P9, whereas World Champion Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) was P6. Up ahead, Miller then dived up the inside of Martin at Turn 1 on Lap 2 to take the lead, but it was short-lived. Martin and Mir cut through on Lap 2, and Miller down to third, then it was fourth, then fifth – the Australian was going backwards after briefly leading.
The Suzukis were charging though – hard. Mir was harassing Martin, before Pecco then used the GP21’s superior grunt to take P2 off the 2020 Champion. Alex Rins (Team Suzuki Ecstar) then snuck past Mir at Turn 6 on Lap 3, as the top four – Martin, Bagnaia, Rins and Mir – started to create a gap to now fifth-placed Quartararo. Miller was down to P6, seemingly struggling in the early stages.
The race then settled as the front runners held station, but Martin, Bagnaia and Rins were now 0.7s ahead of Mir. After a few laps of following the World Champion, Miller was back through on Quartararo and up to P5, as Rins set the fastest lap of the race. However, at Turn 6 on Lap 11 of 27, Rins then went down. The Spaniard tucked the front of his GSX-RR, handing teammate Mir third.
Rossi, meanwhile, was now 10th, 0.6s down on Enea Bastianini (Avintia Esponsorama) who, as things stood, was losing out on the Rookie of the Year crown with Martin leading…
Bagnaia was swarming all over the back of the race-leading rookie though and with 12 laps to go, at Turn 14, Pecco pounced. Now, with some clear air, what could the Italian do? The fastest lap, a 1:31.042, came next and the hammer was well and truly down. His mentor Rossi was still 10th with 11 laps to go, but VR46 Academy’s first World Champion and fellow Yamaha star Franco Morbidelli (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) was right behind him…
Up front though, Martin was not letting Pecco pull clear. On two consecutive laps, the rookie was quicker than Bagnaia, and a second or so behind, Miller grabbed P3 off Mir at Turn 2. It was a Ducati 1-2-3 with eight laps to go, and history was on the cards for the Bologna factory. Miller wasn’t done yet either, the Australian 1.3s back when he passed Mir, but by five laps to go, he was just 0.7s off Martin.
With two laps of the season to go, Pecco was 0.8s clear of Martin and it seemed the battle would be for second. Miller was closer than ever to Martin, but the rookie was holding firm. Unable to make a move, Miller couldn’t quite make it a factory Ducati 1-2 as Bagnaia crossed the line to win for a fourth time in 2021, although Martin clinched the Rookie of the Year crown with a P2 – his fourth podium of the season. Miller, in third, helps Ducati make history with their first 1-2-3 in MotoGP™ with his fifth rostrum. In addition, Bagnaia’s P1 and Miller’s P3 helps Ducati take the Teams’ Championship, adding to their Constructors’ crown.
Mir held onto P4 by just 0.2s in the end as Quartararo homed in, but El Diablo takes P5 to cap off a title-winning season. Johann Zarco (Pramac Racing) was P6, Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) was P7, with Bastianini’s P8 was not quite good enough for the Rookie of the Year title – nine points split the Italian and Martin in the end. Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing Team Gresini) struggled in the latter stages and slipped to P9, finishing one place ahead of The Doctor.
Valentino Rossi took P10, where he started, to bow out in style. There aren’t enough superlatives to describe the Italian’s glistening Grand Prix career, as one of the world’s biggest sporting icons bids a fond farewell to the sport he loves – and the sport that loves him. Grazie Vale, from millions of fans around the globe!
Morbidelli crossed the line less than a second away from Rossi as the Italian now aims to get fully fit for 2022, Andrea Dovizioso (Petronas Yamaha SRT) had a good final weekend of the season to finish in P12, and Alex Marquez (LCR Honda Castrol), Miguel Oliveira (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) and WorldSBK-bound Lecuona take home the final points of 2021.
Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu) joined Rins in suffering a DNF in Valencia, the Japanese rider was perfectly ok after his Turn 6 crash.
And that, as they say, is a wrap. The curtain comes down on 2021, as we say ciao to the icon that is Valentino Rossi. The number 46 will be missed immensely on and off track in 2022 and beyond, but MotoGP™ couldn’t be in a better place. The next generation is here, Rossi’s legacy will live on with his VR46 Academy and new MotoGP™ team, and Yamaha and Quartararo will be aiming to defend their title against a whole host of unbelievable bikes and riders. What a year! And #GrazieVale!
A 2022-model Honda Navi mini streetbike at speed. Photo courtesy American Honda.
Honda Expands miniMOTO Family with Fun, Approachable, Affordable Navi
With automatic transmission, low seat height, model expands motorcycling to new riders
— TORRANCE, Calif.
American Honda confirmed today that the Navi miniMOTO will be offered in the U.S. market for the 2022 model year. Small, accessible, enjoyable and priced extremely competitively, the Navi appeals to a wide range of customers, especially those just learning to ride. The model has a fuel-efficient, user-friendly 110cc engine and an automatic transmission – so no shift lever or clutch lever. The look is sporty and fun, and the seat has a low, 30.1 inch height, so most riders can touch the ground with both feet. The combination is a bike that’s nimble for navigating city traffic, easy to carry on an RV bumper rack and lightweight to simplify maneuvering into tight parking spots. There’s even a storage bin for stowing a jacket, snack or textbooks. Already very popular in some markets, the Navi is now available in the United States.
“From the original Cub to the Grom, Honda has a proud legacy of producing miniMOTO models that open doors to new riders, and the Navi is set to extend that trend even further,” said Brandon Wilson, Sports & Experiential Manager at American Honda. “This miniMOTO checks all the boxes for new riders, like simple operation, a fun design, low operating costs and Honda reliability – all for well under $2,000. We’re pleased to make motorcycling possible for more riders by offering the Navi in the U.S.”
The Navi will be on display at this weekend’s IMS Outdoors motorcycle show in Costa Mesa, California, where it will also be among the models included in the Motorcycle Industry Council’s Ride With Us Moto Intro experience, giving new riders an opportunity to try motorcycling.
Honda also confirmed the return of five additional on-road models for the new model year: the Gold Wing tourer and NC750X adventure tourer, the Rebel 1100 and Fury cruisers, and the CBR600RR sport bike. Most of these models are available in multiple trim levels, and some are offered in new colors for 2022.
A 2022-model Honda Navi mini streetbike at rest. Photo courtesy American Honda.
NAVI
Somewhat of a mix between Honda’s Ruckus and Grom (each of which is popular enough to have developed its own subculture), the Navi has the styling of a motorcycle and some convenience features of a scooter, including Honda’s V-Matic automatic transmission – just twist the throttle to go! It’s all wrapped up in an appealing miniMOTO package that’s fun and easy to personalize, for example with Honda Accessory graphics produced in collaboration with Icon. The Navi also has an amazingly low MSRP and gas-sipping performance, putting it within reach of almost any customer. With Honda’s proven quality and reliability, it’s also a dependable way to get around town – far more convenient than public transportation or carpooling. There’s never been a better way for new riders to discover just how enjoyable, convenient and practical motorcycling can be.
MSRP: $1,807
Colors: Red; Grasshopper Green; Nut Brown; Ranger Green
Availability: January 2022 (February in California)
The iconic Honda Gold Wing has helped pave the way for the modern touring category through its smooth power, deluxe features and overall performance. There has always been a subset of motorcyclists who covet a machine that meets their desire for long-distance tours in luxury, and for decades, the Gold Wing has fulfilled that wish. That’s particularly true of the current platform, with large luggage capacity, rich audio equipment and a helpful navigation setup being just a few of the qualities that make it exceptional. Superior seat comfort (for both rider and passenger) and incomparable suspension performance facilitate multi-day journeys, but excellent handling means the Gold Wing also performs in more sporty situations.
MSRP
Gold Wing DCT: $25,300
Gold Wing Tour: $28,500
Gold Wing Tour DCT: $29,500
Gold Wing Tour Airbag DCT: $32,800
Colors
Gold Wing DCT: Nightshade Blue
Gold Wing Tour: Ultra Blue Metallic; Metallic Black
Gold Wing Tour DCT: Ultra Blue Metallic; Metallic Black
Recognized as both reliable and affordable, the Honda NC750X is practical and sleek. Powerful torque, quality suspension and excellent ride comfort make this adventure model ideal for riding backroads and getting off the beaten path, but it also has a well-earned reputation as a practical commuter king. The liquid-cooled, SOHC 8-valve parallel-twin-cylinder engine provides responsive performance in the low to midrange, and Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) is standard on both manual-transmission and automatic Dual Clutch Transmission models (DCT), providing more precise rear-wheel control. Find adventure, performance and utility, all in a single, versatile machine.
Developed according to a “Relax and Excite” design theme, the Rebel 1100 ABS meets the wide-ranging needs of almost any modern cruiser rider. A forward-looking midsize cruiser, this adaptable and modern machine is available with Honda’s advanced automatic Dual Clutch Transmission or a manual gearbox, and a long list of Honda Accessories are offered. Whether riders are “cruising” or out for an adrenaline-filled ride through thrilling curves, the high-performance, water-cooled parallel-twin engine and carefully developed geometry make for dynamic and comfortable handling. The Rebel 1100’s acceleration and cornering prowess are also impressive, as is its clean, no-nonsense styling.
MSRP
Rebel 1100 ABS: $9,399
Rebel 1100 ABS DCT: $9,999
Colors: Metallic Black; Bordeaux Red Metallic; Pearl Stallion Brown
With its extreme, chopper-style looks, clean design and long wheelbase, the Fury is a rolling work of art, but it also boasts the functionality and finish that one would expect from a Honda. The 1,312cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine puts out waves of torque and a throaty-but-appealing exhaust note, but its fuel-injection, twin counter-balancers and shaft drive keep things smooth and reliable. The hard-tail look and raked-out front end are matched with adjustable suspension front and rear, delivering stable but nimble handling.
Since its 2003 introduction, Honda’s CBR600RR has been a popular supersport machine, equally capable as a track-day weapon and for weekend outings on local twisty backroads. Backed by a racing heritage that includes eight World Supersport titles (nine if you count its CBR600F predecessor), the CBR600RR returns for the 2022 model year, its inline four achieving high-revving power and its Showa suspension and responsive chassis delivering a nimble, comfortable ride. Available with or without ABS.
Jack Miller riding a Ducati Panigale V4 R at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Jack Miller Confirms That He Will Compete In The Australian Superbike Championship At The Bend Motorsport Park
Jack Miller will compete in the last round of the Australian Superbike Championship
The final round will be held at The Bend Motorsport Park in South Australia from the 3rd – 5th December
Jack Miller will compete on board the 2021 Ducati Paniagle V4 R
Jack Miller has confirmed that he will compete in the final round of the Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK).
Miller will return to Australia after the last round of the MotoGP Championship in Valencia and will travel to South Australia in order to compete at The Bend Motorsport Park on the 3rd – 5th December.
With two Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix cancelled over recent years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, racing fans will finally be able to see and cheer the Australian hero on home soil.
Competing on board the 2021 Ducati Panigale V4 R, Jack Miller will line up aside fellow Australian Ducati Riders Oli Bayliss, Mike Jones and Wayne Maxwell across the two races over the course of the event.
Jack confirmed his participation in a statement “I am really excited to be able to have this opportunity and race the final round of Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK). I would love to say a massive thank you to the guys at Ducati for allowing me this opportunity amidst our busy testing schedule.
“To go and race in front of the Australian fans is a massive privilege and honour. Thank you the team at ASBK and Motorcycling Australia for their support at such short notice. I am also thankful to Ben Henry from DesmoSport Ducati for his help in the organisation. As you can imagine it has not been easy to try and organise everything from the other side of the world at such short notice, having Ben and Matty Macalpine there to help me organise most things, has been very easy.
“I am very excited to be able to race in front of the Australian fans at least one time this year, it is going to be fantastic. I look forward to seeing everyone there!”
Motorcycling Australia CEO, Peter Doyle, said he was ecstatic to have Jack Miller joining the Grand Finale of the mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul.
“Having Australian MotoGP sensation Jack Miller compete in the ASBK is further testament to the tough and highly competitive nature of our ASBK Championship which is one of the best national superbike championships in the world,” Mr Doyle said.
“Australian race fans have been starved of on track MotoGP action here for two years due to COVID, but to now have their Aussie hero in Jack Miller come home and race ASBK, we are sure fans will flock to the ASBK Grand Finale at The Bend in South Australia.”
The final round will be open to spectators and with travel restrictions set to ease for South Australia over coming weeks, this event will be a must see for motorcycle racing fans.
Tickets for the Grand Finale are now on sale through Ticketek.
The ASBK Grand Finale will operate under a COVIDSafe Plan in accordance with SA Government regulations, and all interstate travelers, volunteers and race fans will be required to be double vaccinated for entry into South Australia.
For those fans who are unable to be trackside, you can catch all the fantastic action through our ASBK TV partners SBS, FOXSPORTS Australia, Sky Sport NZ and via ASBK TV Live Stream.
Keep up to date with the latest news on the mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul via www.asbk.com.au and following ASBK on Facebook and Instagram. You can also join our ASBK mailing list at www.asbk.com.au
The MotoAmerica Supersport class has featured very close racing, as seen here at Road America in 2021 when Sean Dylan Kelly (40), Richie Escalante (1), Stefano Mesa (37), and Benjamin Smith (88) contested the lead. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Copyright 2021, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.
By David Swarts
Last month, MotoAmerica, following the lead of the FIM Supersport World Championship, announced proposed new technical rules for its 2022 Supersport Championship.
Under the new rules, the class, which has traditionally been contested by riders on 599cc and 636cc inline four-cylinder motorcycles, will now be open to the 955cc V-Twin Ducati Panigale V2, the 798cc inline three-cylinder MV Agusta F3, and the 765cc inline three-cylinder Triumph Street Triple 765 RS.
The new machines will be required to use control electronics packages and be subject to restrictions, including prescribed engine maps and rev limits, to limit their performance, while the 599cc and 636cc machines will be allowed to add aftermarket camshafts, aftermarket velocity stacks, and have some light cylinder head modifications to bring the level of their engine performance closer to that of the new machines.
According to MotoAmerica COO Chuck Aksland, MotoAmerica will constantly evaluate the performance of the different machines during the 2022 season and then make adjustments to the balancing parameters and rules governing the various machines after every third round or more often if it is deemed necessary.
We did a question and answer session about the changes to the Supersport class with Aksland and MotoAmerica Technical Director Tige Daane on October 11 HERE.
To get reaction to the new Supersport technical rules we reached out to riders and teams that participated in the 2021 MotoAmerica Supersport Championship. We spoke to Landers Racing Team Owner Stoney Landers and riders Nolan Lamkin and Benjamin Smith and published their reactions on this website on November 4 HERE.
We followed that up by getting more reaction from BARTCON Racing Team Owner Colin Barton, Supersport race winner Gabriel Da Silva, Westby Racing Team Manager Chuck Giacchetto, and Altus Motorsports Team Owner George Nassaney on November 8. Read their reactions HERE.
Now, here is the fifth part of our series on the new-for-2022 MotoAmerica Supersport rules and class structure and the third round of reactions from stakeholders in the MotoAmerica paddock.
Ducati North America CEO Jason Chinnock. Photo by David Swarts.
Jason Chinnock, CEO of Ducati North America said in a press release, “We support broadening motorcycle racing in North America and the partnership with the Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati New York team along with Josh Herrin will pilot our racing heritage into the new era of the [MotoAmerica] Supersport class. The expansion of our presence in the series is good for our customers, fans, and all involved as we work together to grow the sport of American road racing.”
Attack Performance owner Richard Stanboli (left) with rider Josh Herrin (right). Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
“I don’t know if staying status quo all the time is such a good thing, and turning the cart upside down isn’t always a good thing either,” said team owner Richard Stanboli, whose Attack Performance is the official U.S. distributor for Yamaha GYTR parts for the YZF-R6 and other Yamaha models. Stanboli has also fielded several riders and motorcycles in AMA Pro Supersport and Daytona SportBike as well as MotoAmerica Supersport classes over the years, in addition to his Fresh N’ Lean Attack Performance Yamaha Superbike team. “Sometimes we’ve had to take a few lumps before we go forward. If it means getting more involvement from other manufacturers I see the long-term benefit, because more manufacturer involvement forces other manufacturers to get involved.
“You’ve got to look at the long game, not always…’Man, this is going to screw me up for a few grand in camshafts this year!’ Camshafts last a couple of seasons easy. The long-term benefit of having more manufacturers involved is other manufacturers see it and feel like they need to get involved. The [manufacturers] who are going to be weak and shy away are going to be weak and shy away anyway. You’re not going to save those guys. That’s their five-year plan, to duck out. So, screw them! Move along. I think more involvement is better even if we have to take a few lumps.
“I don’t think that dumbing down to the current standard [MotoAmerica Supersport motorcycle performance] is possible for some of the stuff that they’re doing. I was talking to [one Supersport team owner] who said, ‘Why can’t we dumb it all down to the current [performance level].’ Here’s the main reason: MotoAmerica is not capable of dumbing it down. All that stuff is done at the FIM/Dorna/World Supersport level. They are the guys keeping the standard, and that standard gets adjusted based on what they see on the racetracks. [MotoAmerica] doesn’t have that capability. We [Attack Performance] do. If somebody paid us we could go through and map every single motorcycle and they would all be overlapping perfectly. I trust that the FIM is doing their homework and making those decisions.
“The Supersport rules they have in FIM right now is World Supersport. This is why we need to bring our level up to match what is currently being raced over there. Otherwise, there won’t be parity. They have a little more than we do [in World Supersport], but they didn’t want to give us everything that they have, [like] ported heads. So, they’re matching those big-bore [Next Generation] bikes to match what they’ve been running for a number of years. That’s their standard. So, if we leave our stuff to the lowest level, then you’re going to have to have Tige and those guys who are already short-handed and don’t have the experience or the knowledge to be able to do the pairing [balancing]. So, I don’t think it’s possible to go down to our level. I think we have to go up to the standard that’s worldwide.
“I’ve gone over this in my head quite a bit. What are the plusses and minuses? And is it good for the long term? I’d have to say it’s good for the long term IF they get other manufacturers involved, which it sounds like they are. Triumph has a package available. Ducati is more involved now. Without those rules you wouldn’t have Ducati involved in that class.”
N2 Racing Team Manager Shiloh Salopek seated next to Junior Cup rider Blake Davis. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Shiloh Salopek is the Team Manager of N2 Racing, which announced on October 14 that it was planning to field Kevin Olmedo on a Yamaha YZF-R6 in MotoAmerica Supersport, including the Daytona 200, in 2022. N2 Racing raced in the 2020 MotoAmerica Supersport Championship with Nate Minster and Xavier Zayat.
Asked if MotoAmerica shared its 2022 Supersport plans with her prior to the official announcement of the changes to the class and technical rules, Salopek said, “Not at all.”
As far as her feelings about the new changes to the 2022 technical rules, Salopek said, “I think the biggest thing is the cost. I know MotoAmerica talks about making racing affordable is their main focus, but because we are Yamaha-backed and -supported, to make the R6 competitive with the new models – and if you’re going to do it you want to be as competitive as possible – we’re going to have to spend almost $5,000 per engine. And you can’t just have one engine.
“We signed on with Kevin [Olmedo] and made a contract with him at a certain price point, but then we were blindsided with another price point. We’re going to make it work because we love the sport and we want to see it grow. We’re going to do the engines. We’re going to be competitive, but we were kind of blindsided. It kind of takes away from them saying they’re trying to make racing affordable, in my opinion.”
Because official Yamaha GYTR race kits parts must be pre-ordered by the few distributors far in advance, they are not easy to get quickly. “They’re [GYTR parts] impossible to get,” said Salopek. “We have two sets on order from Attack Performance, but they said [they won’t be available until] February. Tige and those guys have said they want to keep the money in the U.S. and support U.S. companies, but to be honest I had to go and get my kits from overseas because I need them. We need to test the engines and make sure they’re reliable.”
Asked if she was concerned about the inclusion of the new, big-bore Twins and Triples into the Supersport class, Salopek said, “I was frustrated with the additional models, at first, but as long as they do what they say and limit them correctly and quickly I’m not concerned. I’m confident in my team, our motorcycles, our chassis, and the abilities of our crew. I’m not concerned that we won’t be competitive as long as they do what they say and it’s done fast and correctly.”
Chris Ulrich (right) with 2021 MotoAmerica Supersport Champion Sean Dylan Kelly. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Chris Ulrich is Vice President of Racing Operations for Team Hammer, which raced as M4 ECSTAR Suzuki in 2021, the team’s 41st consecutive year of competing as a professional racing team.
“There’s some fear of the unknown about how well the balancing will work,” Ulrich said. “And the bike specs are going to increase costs. On the other hand, it could be good because maybe additional manufacturers will bring more money into the class.
“But we’re all in. Our family business is motorcycle racing, and we’ve had a lot of success in what is now called the Supersport class. We can’t control what happens with the rules, but we’re going to race and try to do our best no matter what the rules are.
“We’re already building racebikes to suit the new rules. We will continue racing in the class and we’re going to continue providing technical support to other teams and riders. We’ll have bikes and riders racing in the Daytona 200 and in MotoAmerica Supersport, as well as in MotoAmerica Superbike, Superbike Cup, and Stock 1000. Racing is what we do, and we’ll see everybody at the races!”
A 2022-model Yamaha MT-10. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor Europe.
Yamaha launch the next evolution of the MT-10
The definitive Master of Torque
The MT-10 is already the undisputed King of Yamaha’s Hyper Naked range.
Since it arrived on the scene this blockbuster of a motorcycle has gained the
utmost respect from everyone who has ridden it – as well as anyone who has
seen it in action.
It’s R1-derived high-torque CP4 engine is the most remarkable powerplant that Yamaha has ever fitted to a naked bike. Ultra-aggressive naked styling gives the MT-10 the most distinctive and intimidating looks.
And the lightweight aluminium chassis delivers class-leading levels of agility and stability that make this one of the most exciting and rewarding motorcycles ever built. Now the next evolution of the MT-10 is about to arrive.
With more power, more control and more adrenaline, it’s been built to take the Hyper Naked experience to the next level, and reinforce the MT-10’s reputation as the definitive Master of Torque.
The MT story
When Yamaha launched the MT-01 in 2007 no one could have predicted how this unique machine was about to change the face of the motorcycle market in Europe. With its naked body, high-torque engine and distinctive look, it stood out from the crowd. It was the beginning of a new era in the motorcycle world that really took off with the launch of the phenomenally successful MT-09 in 2013.
European riders loved what they saw – a naked sport motorcycle with a very special character that gave them the torque, agility and feel that they were looking for.
With the crossplane concept engine technology, an aggressive stance and
stripped down bodywork, the MT Hyper Naked range grew to become Yamaha’s most successful range of motorcycles.
With over 290,000 sold in Europe, the MT line up has brought a new excitement to the street, and the smaller capacity models have been successful in attracting a whole new generation of people into the world of two wheels.
From the new MT-10 through to the MT-125, Yamaha’s Hyper Naked range is designed to give every rider the opportunity to be a part of the most exciting and accessible movement in European motorcycling.
Yamaha has increased power output and decreased emissions output of the MT-10’s CP4 engine. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor Europe.
New MT-10: More power. More control. More adrenaline
Updated EU5 998cc CP4 engine
The next evolution of the MT-10 is equipped with a refined version of the legendary liquid-cooled CP4 crossplane engine that is closely related to the legendary R1. Developing increased power and producing a stronger feeling of torque, this is the most powerful and most technologically advanced engine ever seen on a Yamaha Hyper Naked motorcycle.
The updated 2022 design benefits from lightweight aluminium forged pistons, offset con rods and direct-plated cylinders in order to ensure maximum efficiency, and has a number of new model-specific features that are designed to enhance the feeling of torque.
To boost the road-focused midrange, steel conrods are used rather than the titanium components used on the R1, and the moment of inertia at the crankshaft is increased.
Fuel injection settings have been changed for an even higher level of linear torque between 4,000 and 8,000 rpm – and the design of the intake and exhaust systems is also modified to give the MT-10 a more thrilling and unique 360° Torque Emotion character.
Fuel economy is improved, CO2 levels reduced, and this more powerful engine meets EU5 regulations.
New air intakes on each side of the MT-10 contribute to the increase in power and a new intake sound. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor Europe.
Tuned intake sound
The sound made by any motorcycle – whether intake or exhaust – is one of its most defining characteristics, and Yamaha’s engineers have focused on creating a unique soundtrack for the MT-10 by designing an all-new intake system.
With an uneven firing interval of 270°-180°-90°-180° the MT-10’s CP4 crossplane technology engine emits a distinctive intake and exhaust noise characterized by a rumbling growl at low rpm and a high pitched roar at high rpm.
Yamaha’s development team has custom-made a new tuned intake sound for the 2022 model by the use of an all-new air cleaner box that is equipped with three intake ducts with different lengths and cross sections.
Each duct produces a different intake sound, and they are designed to resonate harmoniously at varying engine speeds to create a unique intake roar that enhances the overall riding experience.
In particular, the tuned intake is specifically designed to produce a sensual roar between 4,000 rpm and 8,000 rpm that reinforces the MT-10’s enormous torque feeling when accelerating hard or powering out of a turn.
The big-torque experience is heightened by the new Acoustic Amplifier Grilles that are positioned on the front left and front right of the 17-litre fuel tank. These amplifiers transmit the tuned induction sound directly to the rider, and the vibration of the grilles themselves also contributes to the thrill and excitement experienced when the rider opens the throttle.
The 2022 Yamaha MT-10 comes with a new titanium exhaust system. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor Europe.
Titanium exhaust
A new titanium exhaust is used on the MT-10, and this lightweight system features a newly designed titanium downpipes and muffler. Like the new tuned intake, the exhaust has been designed to emit a deep and distinctive sound that emphasizes the bike’s uneven firing sequence.
At lower engine speeds the exhaust sound is dominant, while the tuned intake roar takes over from mid to high revs to create a wall of sound that stimulates the senses and heightens the thrilling acceleration and torque rich performance of the more powerful 2022 engine.
Compact and minimalist new exterior styling
Right from the launch of the very first MT-10, this flagship Hyper Naked has maintained its distinctive individuality and established a reputation for being one of the most aggressively styled bikes in the category.
The next evolution of the MT-10 continues this theme of individuality with a powerful and dignified new look that underlines the bike’s intense character and intimidating presence.
This has been achieved by removing any unnecessary bodywork elements and refocusing attention on this charismatic bike’s mechanical beauty.
The ‘face’ of every motorcycle is one of the most significant design elements, shaping the way that it is perceived and also influencing the pride of ownership and levels of riding enjoyment.
The new MT-10 has a completely new look with a more integrated feel that gives a more minimalist and imposing appearance.
Compact new twin-eye mono-focus LED headlights with separate high and low beam units provide excellent illumination and project a powerful and even beam with softer light at the edges.
LED position lights are situated above the headlights, and the new nose assembly transforms the looks of this flagship model and gives it an even more refined yet dominant look.
Mounted on both sides of the fuel tank cover, the enlarged ducts increase intake efficiency and contribute significantly towards the increased power output of the 2022 engine. As well as their mechanical functionality in delivering cool air to the fuel injection system, these intakes also visually highlight the outstanding power of the 998cc engine, and form an integral part of the bike’s new look.
Together with the Acoustic Amplifier Grilles located in the front of the fuel tank cover, the dual ducts emit the thrilling intake sound of the high-torque CP4 engine for the riders enjoyment.
With minimal overhang at the front end and a more compact LED taillight – combined with the compact new nose and new larger air intakes – the MT-10’s mass centralized design is taken to the extreme, giving a brutal and condensed side profile that leaves no doubt that this is the King of the MT line.
Improved ergonomics
The MT-10’s legendary versatility in almost any riding situation from urban streets through to twisty backroads and long haul trips – and even the occasional track day – has made it one of the most competent and desirable Hyper Naked bikes. For improved comfort together with greater freedom in adopting different riding styles, the 2022 model’s ‘rider triangle’ – the bar/footrest/seat relationship – has been improved.
The fuel tank cover is now smoother, giving a better feel when the rider grips the tank with their knees when braking or accelerating – and also allows greater mobility when shifting weight for corners. In addition the seat’s firmness has been modified for greater comfort, and the seat design has been modified.
The new MT-10 now comes with a Brembo radial front brake master cylinder. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor Europe.
Brembo radial master cylinder
The MT-10’s outstanding front braking system, features dual floating 320mm discs with 4 piston radial-mounted calipers – the same system as used on the R1. For 2022 a new Brembo radial brake master cylinder is featured, giving improved braking feel at the lever for increased controllability.
Yamaha Variable Speed Limiter
A key feature on the new MT-10 is the Yamaha Variable Speed Limiter (YVSL) that gives the rider the ability to set a top speed limit to suit various situations. As well as ensuring that public road speed limits are not accidentally exceeded, the system can also be useful when riding though unfamiliar areas or in adverse conditions.
A quickshifter is now standard on the 2022 Yamaha MT-10. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor Europe.
Quick Shift System
Previously available as an optional extra, the Quick Shift System (QSS) is now fitted as original equipment on the 2022 MT-10. By enabling smooth, clutchless shifting, this system makes full-on acceleration even more exciting – downshifting is also smoother and faster.
The 2022-model Yamaha MT-10 comes with a full-color dashboard and a conveniently located power outlet. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor Europe.
New 4.2” full-colour TFT display
The next evolution of the MT-10 comes fully equipped with an R1 derived 4.2” full-colour TFT display that features a clear and easy to read screen with all of the key information on view.
A menu switch on the right handlebar enables the rider to select which information is displayed, while the ‘Mode/Select’ switch on the left side of the handlebar can be used to change the intervention levels of the electronic rider aids, or where applicable, to turn them on or off.
APSG ride-by-wire throttle with four power delivery modes (PWR)
A new Accelerator Position Sensor Grip (APSG) ride by wire twistgrip unit works with the Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T) to give the MT-10 rider increased controllability when accelerating. This advanced system provides the optimum intake air volume to the combustion chamber, ensuring that the rider experiences smooth torque characteristics over the MT-10’s wide rpm range.
The rider can also adjust the throttle response characteristics using the PWR (Power delivery mode) switch.
PWR-1 is suited to aggressive trackday riding; PWR-2 and PWR-3 deliver a
smoother throttle response that enable the rider to experience the bike’s
linear torque, and PWR-4 is a softer response that is best used when surface
conditions are wet or slippery.
6-axis IMU with rider aids
The new MT-10 is now equipped with a state of the art 6-axis IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) that was originally developed for the R1, and has now evolved into a smaller and lighter unit.
The IMU features two sensors that measure 3-axis angular velocity: pitch, roll and yaw – and three-axis acceleration: forward/backward, up/down and left/right. This data is transmitted to the ECU which activates the bike’s electronic rider aids which give unprecedented levels of machine controllability by intervening to prevent wheel lock ups, loss of traction or wheelies.
Lean sensitive Traction Control System
The MT-10 benefits from one of the most advanced traction control systems to be featured on a Hyper Naked.
Sensors detect the relative speeds of the front and rear wheels, and when rear wheel traction loss is detected the ECU momentarily cuts drive to maintain traction and stability.
Using data from the 6-axis IMU, this new lean sensitive traction control system is able to adjust the degree of intervention to correspond with the bike’s lean angle, with intervention increasing as lean angle increases.
A total of five intervention levels are available.
Slide Control system (SCS)
For increased cornering controllability and confidence the MT-10 is equipped with the latest Slide Control System (SCS). When the sensors predict that the rear wheel is about to slide sideways, the ECU intervenes and reduces drive to the rear wheel until the chassis is stable. The system uses pre-set intervention levels, but the rider can adjust the levels or turn the system off.
LIFT control system (LIF)
When sensor data tells the IMU that front wheel lift is imminent the ECU cuts power to the rear wheel until the machine is stable again. As with some of the other rider aids, the intervention levels are pre-set, but the rider can adjust them or turn them off.
Engine Brake Management (EBM)
EBM controls the degree of engine braking force when decelerating, and gives the rider a choice of two levels. Level 1 gives a high level of engine braking, while Level 2 gives minimal engine braking, enabling the rider to choose the most suitable level for the prevailing riding conditions. Modes are pre-set, but can be adjusted by the rider or turned off.
Brake Control (BC)
Brake Control (BC) is designed to give increased controllability during mid corner riding, and independently modulates and controls the pressure being applied to the front brake and rear brake.
The rider can select one of two modes: BC1 mode is a standard ABS-active mode, while BC2 is designed to operate in mid corner emergency braking situations.
Yamaha Ride Control (YRC)
While all of the electronic rider aids can be adjusted independently, Yamaha Ride Control (YRC) gives the MT-10 owner the ability to create an all-inclusive system which can switch the settings for the traction control, SCS, QSS, LIF, EBM and BC systems all at once.
YRC is available in four different modes that are designed to suit a variety of riding conditions.
Mode A is for sporty riding; Mode B is for a wide range of conditions; Mode C is tailored for urban usage; Mode D is for rainy or adverse conditions.
The YRC’s four modes have pre-set values, but the MT-10 rider can choose to reset the various different mode settings to match their own preferences.
Lightweight Deltabox chassis
Derived from the class-leading R1, the aluminium Deltabox chassis is one of the lightest, strongest and sharpest handling designs in any category. Developed to handle 200 HP this high-tech frame uses the CP4 engine as a fully stressed member to keep weight to an absolute minimum.
Equipped with a long aluminium swingarm but with a compact wheelbase of 1405mm, the Deltabox chassis delivers stable, light and agile handling in a wide variety of low and high speed conditions.
Optimized front and rear suspension
The MT-10’s advanced suspension system uses optimized model-specific settings that are designed to provide precise handling and confident roadholding, whether in busy urban streets or powering hard through a set of bends in the mountains.
The 43mm fully adjustable KYB front forks offer 120mm travel and can be set up to match personal riding preferences.
These high specification forks are complemented by a fully adjustable KYB rear shock that can be easily adjusted to handle varying loads and riding styles.
The MT-10 comes fitted with Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22 tires. Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor Europe.
Bridgestone Battlax S22 tyres
The MT-10’s lightweight 5-spoke aluminium 17-inch wheels are fitted with the latest Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22 tyres.
A 120/70-ZR17 front tyre and a 190/55-ZR17 rear tyre provide outstanding levels of traction, and together with the sophisticated electronic rider aids, this package offers outstanding handling together with a remarkable degree of controllability in many different types of riding conditions.
MT-10 Key Features
More powerful EU5 998cc engine
Tuned intake sound
Titanium exhaust
Compact and functional new exterior styling
Improved ergonomics
Brembo radial master cylinder
Yamaha Variable Speed Limiter (YVSL)
Quick Shift System (QSS)
A&S clutch
New 4.2” full-colour TFT display
APSG ride-by-wire throttle with four power delivery modes (PWR)
6-axis IMU
Lean sensitive Traction Control System
Slide Control system (SCS)
Lift control system (LIF)
Engine Brake Management (EBM)
Brake Control (BC)
Yamaha Ride Control (YRC)
R1-derived aluminium Deltabox chassis
Long aluminium swingarm
Compact 1,405mm wheelbase
43mm fully adjustable KYB front forks
Fully adjustable KYB rear shock
Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22 tyres
MT-10 colours, availability and price
Yamaha will offer the new MT-10 in three colour options. Cyan Storm evolves the DSOJ story in an exciting new direction offering a fresh take on the technical and trend focused colour way. Icon Blue is a dynamic new colour inspired by the factory’s race bikes, and features blue body panels and blue wheel rims. Tech Black projects an understated and moody look, and features an all-black body with black wheel rims.
Deliveries to European Yamaha dealers will commence from the February 2022. Prices vary per region, so please contact the national Yamaha distributor for full information.
Yamaha Genuine Accessories and Hyper Naked Apparel
Yamaha has developed a range of kits and individual Genuine Accessories that enable MT owners to easily personalize their motorcycle with high quality parts that have been developed to give an excellent fit and a premium finish.
Customers can order the kits and accessories before collecting their new motorcycle, and have them fitted by their Yamaha dealer. All of the items in the kits can also be purchased individually, and in addition to the kit items, the Genuine Accessory list includes everything from Akrapovic Exhaust Systems and levers through to grip heaters and billet handlebar ends.
Yamaha’s extensive MT clothing line includes male and female jackets and pants, as well as a selection of hoodies, T-shirts, gloves and a range of CE-approved riding gear. The MT collection is constantly evolving, and new products are added throughout the year.
MyGarage app
Yamaha’s MyGarage app is the quick and easy way for customers to build a virtual version of any MT model with a range of Genuine Accessories while sitting at home with their smart phone or laptop. The free App allows users to add and remove accessories to create their ideal MT, and the finished result can be viewed in 3D from every angle.
MyGarage takes the guesswork out of choosing which accessories to fit, and to make things even easier the customer’s final selection can be emailed to their chosen Yamaha dealer who will fit the selected Genuine Accessories to their new MT.
For full information on Yamaha Genuine Accessories and Apparel or MyGarage please visit www.yamaha-motor.eu
MyRide
Yamaha’s free MyRide app gives all MT riders the chance to get more enjoyment and information out of every ride. Available for iOS and Android devices, it tracks and stores every route covered, and enables users to create their own story and add pictures which can be shared on social media.
The all-new Pertamina Mandalika International Street Circuit in Indonesia hosts the 2021 FIM Superbike World Championship finale this coming weekend. Photo courtesy Dorna.
The #WorldSBKFinale: Indonesia hosts fierce 2021 title race at all-new Mandalika
One of the greatest seasons in memory is coming to a close, but does one more twist lie ahead in an unforgettable 2021 WorldSBK Championship battle?
35 races, 12 circuits, five different winners but only one thing to left to decide: who will take the 2021 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship? The final round of a sensational season is on the horizon, with all the twists and turns up to this point making for a grand finale. Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK) leads the way into the Pirelli Indonesian Round, held at the all-new Pertamina Mandalika International Street Circuit on the picturesque Lombok Island. Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) is second, 30 points adrift but has three races to keep his crown for a seventh straight season in what would be one of the greatest sporting comebacks ever seen. In a rivalry that has raged all season, this is the final hurdle: Razgatlioglu vs Rea and the showdown that’s been on everyone’s lips.
THE HEAVYWEIGHTS: it all comes down to this
It’s been a phenomenal season of racing, but Toprak Razgatlioglu has raised the bar; despite not winning until the ninth race of 2021, he’s has racked up 13 wins and an astounding 28 podiums. He’s cemented himself as the rider to beat but the results are just the fruit of his hard work, as well as his never-give-in attitude. Never knowing when he’s beaten and fighting with resilient spirit, the 25-year-old Turk is on the verge of becoming World Champion, the first for Yamaha since Ben Spies in 2009. Will Toprak and indeed Turkey hold on for a first WorldSBK crown? His teammate, Andrea Locatelli – already rookie of the year – hopes to get fourth overall in the standings, being just eight points behind Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati), whilst also aiming to help Toprak to the title and Yamaha to the Manufacturers’ Championship, as they lead Ducati by 16 points.
At Kawasaki, there’s still a chance of retaining the crown. Jonathan Rea’s season started strongly with a 100th win in WorldSBK at Aragon and he, like Toprak, has demonstrated great consistency and has won 11 races and also taken 28 podiums. However, costly errors at Donington Park, Most and notably Portimao, have put Rea on the backfoot. Despite this, Rea remains in touch and is in a position to pounce if Razgatlioglu can’t capitalise. Rea’s never been in this position before and the 34-year-old Ulsterman will do everything in his power to keep the crown. Teammate Alex Lowes will be wingman, as he hopes to back-up Rea as both aim to give Kawasaki an opportunity of retaining their Manufacturers’ title. Lowes himself has a chance of sixth overall, 23 points behind Michael van der Mark (BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team).
THE SPOILERS: fighting for their own cause
With the Riders’ Championship not featuring a Ducati rider, Scott Redding (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) may well be the one who can ride at ease the most. He’s currently third in the standings, something that at the bare minimum he will hold on to, but he’s also not too far away from Rea to take second. 36 is the gap between Rea and Redding, meaning Rea has to score two more points than Redding in Race 1 to lock the Englishman out. Redding and teammate Michael Ruben Rinaldi have the job of keep Yamaha honest in the Manufacturers’ Championship too and may be the spoilers at the front and amidst the title battle. Redding hopes to leave Ducati on a high and win races, whilst Rinaldi looks to secure fourth overall, a respectable result after his first year in the factory team.
Whilst the battle for fourth is mainly a two-horse race, Michael van der Mark has a mathematical chance of snatching it, something that really would be sensational in his first year aboard the all-new BMW M 1000 RR. 42 points back, van der Mark can’t achieve that fourth place without podiums but with a threat of rain looming large, the 29-year-old Dutchman is a contender. Coming back for what could be his final round in WorldSBK, with no clear future on the horizon, Tom Sykes (BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) aims to sign off his three years at BMW well and take advantage of a neutral track, something which could see both BMWs fighting for good positions. BMW have one hand on fourth overall in the Manufacturers’ standings, something they aim to consolidate in Race 1.
Team HRC head to Indonesia after announcing their 2022 line-up of Iker Lecuona and Xavi Vierge. Current riders Alvaro Bautista (Team HRC) and teammate Leon Haslam hope to end their season on a high; Bautista comes into the round after a tricky San Juan, but the bike has had podiums in 2021. The Spaniard’s final weekend with Team HRC will see him hope that a good showing proves that two years of development paid off. Bautista can snatch ninth place from Axel Bassani (Motocorsa Racing) in the title and has a mathematical chance of seventh overall, making Mandalika vital. Teammate Haslam hasn’t got anything signed for 2022, so like Sykes, this weekend has the potential to be his last one. Regardless, the ‘Pocket Rocket’ aims to build on four top ten results in the last six races to fend off Chaz Davies (Team GoEleven) who is just three points behind.
THE BATTLE OF THE INDEPENDENTS: Gerloff and Bassani set for their own showdown
As well as all the excitement in the factory teams, the battle for the Best Independent rider is still on and is tightening; Garrett Gerloff (GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) leads the way by 14 points from Axel Bassani, but the rookie Italian is snapping at the American’s heals. Bassani was in the podium battle in San Juan and will hope to capitalise at the new Mandalika venue. Bassani is also in contention for a top seven overall, with Gerloff tied on points with Alex Lowes. Behind Bassani is Chaz Davies in 13th overall, having missed two rounds through injury. This will be Davies’ last weekend in WorldSBK, with the British rider hoping to end a career that’s seen him win 32 races and finish runner-up three times in WorldSBK in style. Kohta Nozane (GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) is 14th overall as he faces the final round of his rookie season, four points ahead of Tito Rabat (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing).
THE REST: racing for a strong end to 2021
Lucas Mahias (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) isn’t present, and neither is Eugene Laverty, who has been a substitute for Tom Sykes in recent rounds, meaning there’s chances for Isaac Viñales (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) and Christophe Ponsson (Gil Motor Sport – Yamaha) to improve their positions overall in the Championship standings, with Viñales growing in confidence as the year has gone on. Leandro ‘Tati’ Mercado (MIE Racing Honda Team) is 21st in the standings and will aim to finish his season strongly, whilst Samuele Cavalieri (Barni Racing Team) will likewise have the same objectives. Finally, Loris Cresson (OUTDO TPR Team Pedercini Racing) is out of action after being declared unfit, with new rider Oliver Konig graduating from WorldSSP300, where he was a podium finisher earlier in the year at Most, to lead the team.
Join the conversation on social media with the #WorldSBKFinale hashtag, and watch the climax to this staggering season in style with the WorldSBK VideoPass!
Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta (left) presents Valentino Rossi (right) with his MotoGP Legends medal. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Rossi named MotoGP™ Legend
An extra special awards ceremony brings the curtain down on another spectacular season, including one final surprise…
Monday, 15 November 2021
Already a legend, Valentino Rossi (Petronas Yamaha SRT) has been inducted into the MotoGP™ Hall of Fame and is now an official MotoGP™ Legend! The nine-time World Champion was surprised with the honour at the FIM MotoGP™ Awards Ceremony, adding to a roll call of celebrations throughout the day as he hangs up his racing leathers.
The emotional lap of honour after the race and hero’s welcome were only the start on Sunday, and those came after a weekend already painted yellow in the number 46’s honour. Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta presented Rossi with the MotoGP™ Legend trophy on the stage, celebrating 26 seasons of history made and hearts captured around the world. Nine World Championships, 115 wins and 235 podiums across all classes are incredible numbers, but the legend is even more than those.
The Italian joins a long list of greats that have been made MotoGP™ Legends that includes Giacomo Agostini, Mick Doohan, Geoff Duke, Wayne Gardner, Mike Hailwood, Daijiro Kato, Eddie Lawson, Anton Mang, Angel Nieto, Wayne Rainey, Phil Read, Jim Redman, Kenny Roberts, Jarno Saarinen, Kevin Schwantz, Barry Sheene, Marco Simoncelli, Freddie Spencer, Casey Stoner, John Surtees, Carlo Ubbiali, Alex Crivillé, Franco Uncini, Marco Lucchinelli, Randy Mamola, Kork Ballington, Dani Pedrosa, Stefan Dörflinger, Jorge ‘Aspar’ Martinez and the late, great Nicky Hayden.
#GrazieVale!
Valentino Rossi, MotoGP™ Legend: “I always think of this day like a nightmare, because it’s the end of the a long career and I think it would be in Valencia but in the end I enjoyed it a lot so I have to thank everyone, everyone who has worked with me, the whole paddock, the other riders… it was an unforgettable day and I enjoyed it. It was a long career, and always a pleasure.”
Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna Sports: “The only thing I can say to Vale is thank you very much. It’s been amazing since 1997 in Malaysia, we saw a guy doing fantastic races but also very special for so many reasons. We started to talk with him and since that time, everything we’ve done together, with everyone who works in MotoGP it’s been amazing.
“First of all Valentino has been an incredible rider, even yesterday, at 42, he was within tenths of Fabio. But also his personality, the situation he’s helped us to create, the Safety Commission, it’s something very special. These are all the words I can say. Grazie, Valentino!”
FIM MotoGP™ Awards Ceremony brings 2021 to a close
Sunday at the Gran Premio Motul de la Comunitat Valenciana is a day that will go down in history for a few reasons and the FIM MotoGP™ Awards ceremony brought the curtain down on the season. It also hosted the induction of a new MotoGP™ Legend as nine-time World Champion Valentino Rossi (Petronas Yamaha SRT) was inducted into the Hall of Fame as a surprise, the Italian going from legend to Legend.
The Champions and winners in 2021 also took centre stage, including – of course – newly-crowned MotoGP™ World Champion Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP), Remy Gardner (Red Bull KTM Ajo) fresh from Moto2™ glory and the Moto3™ history maker himself, rookie World Champion Pedro Acosta.
Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta (left) and FIM President Jorge Viegas (center) present Fabio Quartararo (right) with the MotoGP World Championship trophy. Photo courtesy Dorna.
The 2021 Awards were hosted by Gavin Emmett and Andrea Schlager, with FIM President Jorge Viegas and Dorna Sports CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta in attendance to present the range of awards throughout the evening to all the winners this season.
Quartararo was the MotoGP™ main event as he received his trophy after making history as the first French premier class World Champion, and he picked up the BMW M Award for best qualifier in the MotoGP™ class once again. Francesco Bagnaia (Ducat Lenovo Team) was on stage as runner up, and 2020 Champion Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar) was once again in the top three.
The Tissot Pole of Poles winners this season were Bagnaia, Raul Fernandez and Romano Fenati (Sterilgarda Max Racing Team) in MotoGP™, Moto2™ and Moto3™ respectively, and they picked up their prizes.
The top three in the FIM Enel MotoE™ World Cup were also honoured: Cup winner Jordi Torres (Pons Racing 40), runner up Dominique Aegerter (Dynavolt IntactGP) and third overall Matteo Ferrari (Indonesian E-Racing Gresini MotoE), with Aegerter receiving his award remotely.
The top Independent Team rider title went to Johann Zarco (Pramac Racing) after another season of consistent speed and excellence from the Frenchman, and this year’s MotoGP™ Rookie of the Year award was presented to his teammate Jorge Martin after a stunning debut for the Spaniard – including a first premier class win, a host of poles and another podium to round out the year too.
In Moto2™, Red Bull KTM Ajo’s Raul Fernandez, after breaking some of Marc Marquez’ records in the class, was crowned Rookie of the Year. In Moto3™, by definition it was also a clear winner as a rookie stormed the Championship: Pedro Acosta.
Ducati swept the Team and Constructor titles in the premier class, with the Bologna factory taking their highest number of podiums ever – and earlier in the day having taken their first ever 1-2-3. Ducati Lenovo Team were the Team Champions too. Kalex came out on top in Moto2™, and KTM in Moto3™.
The Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup winner David Alonso and FIM MiniGP World Series Champion Izan Rodriguez were also applauded for their seasons.
And so the curtain falls, and we bid farewell to a rider who sparked the soul of the sport. Ciao Vale, grazie – and let’s celebrate an incredible career before the lights go out in 2022 for more incredible racing!
Valentino Rossi says goodbye to his fans at Valencia at the end of the 2021 season. Photo courtesy PETRONAS Yamaha SRT.
End of an era for Rossi and PETRONAS Yamaha SRT in Valencia
Valentino Rossi tenth and Andrea Dovizioso 12th in PETRONAS Yamaha SRT’s final MotoGP race
It was the end of an era today at the Gran Premio de la Comunitat Valenciana, with Valentino Rossi ending the final MotoGP race of his career tenth. Team-mate Andrea Dovizioso made it a double points finish for PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team in their final race, crossing the finish line 12th.
Rossi had a good start to his final MotoGP race, claiming two places in the opening corner to go eighth. Dropping back to tenth on lap 4, the Italian demonstrated good speed and pace throughout the season finale. Although he wasn’t able to close the gap to those in front, ‘Vale’ successfully defended his position and crossed the finish line for the final time tenth – bringing his amazing 26 years of Grand Prix racing to its conclusion.
Team-mate Dovizioso, who started 13th, also gained two places in the opening corners. The Italian had some early on-track battles, which pushed him down to 14th on the fifth lap. Mounting a recovery, he made it through to 12th before the midpoint of the race. With a gap to the riders ahead, ‘Dovi’ worked hard to reduce the deficit but ultimately wasn’t quite able to close up to those in front and crossed the line 12th.
The ValenciaGP signals the end of PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team’s three years in the MotoGP championship, where they achieved 12 pole positions, 16 podium finishes and 6 wins. The Malaysian squad were also Independent Team Champions in 2019 and 2020.
Razlan Razali
Team Principal
Today was an emotional day for the team, especially as it was Rossi’s last dance after a glorious 26 years. We are truly honoured that he has ended his career with us and it will go down in the history books that the last team he rode for was PETRONAS Yamaha SRT. At the same time it is the team’s final race as well and it was good that Andrea could finish inside the points in 12th as well. It has been a great three years, with great highs and lows. We have made tremendous achievements in that time though.
In Moto2 it was a great result for Xavi and Jake finished just outside of the points. Although we would have liked both riders to have been fighting towards the front, we are still happy overall. We wish them both the best of luck with their new ventures.
Unfortunately in Moto3 John wasn’t able to break into the top-ten today, but he did well to make his way from 15th to 11th. It was a shame that Darryn was not able to finish the race today and it’s not the way that he or the team wanted to finish this year. Again, we wish them both the best of luck for the future.
Johan Stigefelt
Team Director
We end these three years in MotoGP today and it has been a very interesting journey, from starting the team to achieving what we did. We’ve been second in the World Championship and had many race wins, podiums and pole positions. It has been a privilege to work with Valentino and Andrea this year and we have to be very proud of what we have done. We were able to build up a structure this big and this professional, with the support of PETRONAS and the other partners that believed in this project from the beginning.
I want to thank everybody who was involved in this project from the bottom of my heart, from the crew to sponsors and partners – just everybody. I’m sad that it’s finishing, but I only have good things to say about these years. This is how it is sometimes, so just thank you again.
Valentino Rossi (46) in action at Valencia. Photo courtesy PETRONAS Yamaha SRT.
Valentino Rossi
10th (+13.468)
I didn’t expect that it could be a weekend like this. I was very worried for this weekend because I didn’t know how I felt and there was a lot of pressure with many things to do. It was fantastic, I received a lot of positive energy from all the people in the paddock and I had a lot of great surprises: from seeing all my bikes on Thursday, to all the VR46 Academy riders with my helmets today. I’m also happy because I was able to be strong in both Qualifying yesterday and in the race today, finishing in the top-ten. I enjoyed it a lot and it was the best way to finish. I am in the top ten best riders in the world and it means everything, because this result will never change. I also enjoyed the celebrations after the race. It was a long career and I want to say thanks to everybody.
Andrea Dovizioso (04) in action at Valencia. Photo courtesy PETRONAS Yamaha SRT.
Andrea Dovizioso
12th (+16.534)
We were much closer than we have been in other races today, so I’m happy to finish the season with that speed. We also worked well to improve the bike under braking, which meant I could take different lines. It was good for me that I could follow ‘Vale’ [Rossi] and Franco [Morbidelli] to learn how they ride the Yamaha, as they are very experienced with it. I’m very happy with today and it was a good way to finish the season.
To be a team-mate of Rossi was strange, as I have always been in different teams to him, but it has been enjoyable. I tried to beat him but he was very strong and he always has something more to give in a race. It has been really nice to share the box with him at his final round and I feel lucky to have been part of it.
Honda Racing Corporation would like to extend their sincerest thanks to Valentino Rossi and wish him all the best for the next stage of his life as an illustrious 26-year Grand Prix career comes to a close.
Together with Honda HRC, Valentino Rossi took three straight premier class World Championships from 2001 to 2003, winning 31 of the 48 races in this period and establishing himself as a force in MotoGP.
After a strong premier class debut in 2000 aboard the Honda NSR500 where he finished second, Valentino Rossi went on to take the final premier class two-stroke title aboard the iconic Honda machine. A dominating season saw the Italian rider finish more than 100 points ahead of his nearest rival. During this 2001 season Rossi achieved a milestone for Honda as he took Honda’s 500th Grand Prix win with a thrilling ride at Suzuka. This title would see out the 500cc class and take the last of the NSR500’s ten World Championship titles and 132 wins.
For 2002, a new era began in the premier class as four-stroke 1000cc machines were introduced and Honda debuted the RC211V with Valentino Rossi inside the Repsol Honda Team. Missing the top two just once that season, Rossi again went on to take the title and cementing the combination of the #46 and the RC211V as a force in the premier class. In its debut season the new RC211V, with its dominating V5 engine layout, won 14 of the 16 races and was on the podium at each event.
2003 followed a similar pattern as Rossi finished on the podium in all sixteen Grands Prix that season and claimed a third straight title with Honda. One of the standout moments of the 2003 season was at the Australian Grand Prix, Rossi pushing the RC211V to overcome a ten second penalty. Eventually finishing 15 seconds ahead of second place, Rossi won the race despite the penalty. The season, and his time with Honda, ended in style with a special one-off livery at the final race of the year in Valencia. Often referred to as the ‘Austin Powers bike’, this final Rossi era RC211V remains one of the most memorable liveries of his career. 2003 would also be Valentino Rossi’s most dominant season in the premier class as he averaged 22.3 points per race.
The RC211V would take a total of 48 wins, 33 of them belonging to Rossi, before the RC212V was introduced in 2007. Alongside the Italian, Nicky Hayden also claimed a World Championship aboard the machine during the thrilling 2006 season.
Since leaving Honda, Rossi has continued to be a fierce competitor and rival on the track. His level of competition has continued to help push Honda HRC and its riders to achieve their best on track. Now his Grand Prix racing career comes to an end, but ‘The Doctor’ leaves behind an incredible history and a defining chapter in motorcycle racing.
Honda Racing Corporation would like to thank Valentino Rossi for his collaboration, cooperation and competition over the years and wish him all the best as he begins a new stage of his life away from the circuit.
Bagnaia victorious in Valencia, Rossi bids farewell in 10th
A first ever Ducati 1-2-3 and an emotional goodbye for the ‘Doctor’ round out 2021 with a bang
Francesco Bagnaia (63) leads Jorge Martin (89) and Jack Miller (43) at Valencia. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Sunday, 14 November 2021
Che spettacolo! For the fourth time in 2021, Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) took victory as the Italian led home a historic Ducati 1-2-3 at the Gran Premio Motul de la Comunitat Valenciana, Pecco once again perfectly-poised as this time he saw the flag just ahead of Jorge Martin (Pramac Racing) and Jack Miller (Ducati Lenovo Team) for a Bologna lockout. The race will forever be remembered as Valentino Rossi’s (Petronas Yamaha SRT) last dance too, and The Doctor delivered a P10 in his farewell MotoGP™ appearance in front of a packed Circuit Ricardo Tormo crowd. Pecco also dedicated the win to his mentor.
Danilo Petrucci (Tech3 KTM Factory Racing) saw the chequered flag in P17 as the Italian premier class race winner also says goodbye to Grand Prix racing in an emotional Sunday in Valencia, and teammate Iker Lecuona heads for WorldSBK after scoring a final point of the year.
Rewinding to lights out and polesitter Martin grabbed the holeshot into Turn 1 as fourth place Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar) got a great start to get the better of Bagnaia, with Miller slotting into second. Rossi made a good start and was up a place into P9, whereas World Champion Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) was P6. Up ahead, Miller then dived up the inside of Martin at Turn 1 on Lap 2 to take the lead, but it was short-lived. Martin and Mir cut through on Lap 2, and Miller down to third, then it was fourth, then fifth – the Australian was going backwards after briefly leading.
The Suzukis were charging though – hard. Mir was harassing Martin, before Pecco then used the GP21’s superior grunt to take P2 off the 2020 Champion. Alex Rins (Team Suzuki Ecstar) then snuck past Mir at Turn 6 on Lap 3, as the top four – Martin, Bagnaia, Rins and Mir – started to create a gap to now fifth-placed Quartararo. Miller was down to P6, seemingly struggling in the early stages.
The race then settled as the front runners held station, but Martin, Bagnaia and Rins were now 0.7s ahead of Mir. After a few laps of following the World Champion, Miller was back through on Quartararo and up to P5, as Rins set the fastest lap of the race. However, at Turn 6 on Lap 11 of 27, Rins then went down. The Spaniard tucked the front of his GSX-RR, handing teammate Mir third.
Rossi, meanwhile, was now 10th, 0.6s down on Enea Bastianini (Avintia Esponsorama) who, as things stood, was losing out on the Rookie of the Year crown with Martin leading…
Bagnaia was swarming all over the back of the race-leading rookie though and with 12 laps to go, at Turn 14, Pecco pounced. Now, with some clear air, what could the Italian do? The fastest lap, a 1:31.042, came next and the hammer was well and truly down. His mentor Rossi was still 10th with 11 laps to go, but VR46 Academy’s first World Champion and fellow Yamaha star Franco Morbidelli (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) was right behind him…
Up front though, Martin was not letting Pecco pull clear. On two consecutive laps, the rookie was quicker than Bagnaia, and a second or so behind, Miller grabbed P3 off Mir at Turn 2. It was a Ducati 1-2-3 with eight laps to go, and history was on the cards for the Bologna factory. Miller wasn’t done yet either, the Australian 1.3s back when he passed Mir, but by five laps to go, he was just 0.7s off Martin.
With two laps of the season to go, Pecco was 0.8s clear of Martin and it seemed the battle would be for second. Miller was closer than ever to Martin, but the rookie was holding firm. Unable to make a move, Miller couldn’t quite make it a factory Ducati 1-2 as Bagnaia crossed the line to win for a fourth time in 2021, although Martin clinched the Rookie of the Year crown with a P2 – his fourth podium of the season. Miller, in third, helps Ducati make history with their first 1-2-3 in MotoGP™ with his fifth rostrum. In addition, Bagnaia’s P1 and Miller’s P3 helps Ducati take the Teams’ Championship, adding to their Constructors’ crown.
Mir held onto P4 by just 0.2s in the end as Quartararo homed in, but El Diablo takes P5 to cap off a title-winning season. Johann Zarco (Pramac Racing) was P6, Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) was P7, with Bastianini’s P8 was not quite good enough for the Rookie of the Year title – nine points split the Italian and Martin in the end. Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing Team Gresini) struggled in the latter stages and slipped to P9, finishing one place ahead of The Doctor.
Valentino Rossi took P10, where he started, to bow out in style. There aren’t enough superlatives to describe the Italian’s glistening Grand Prix career, as one of the world’s biggest sporting icons bids a fond farewell to the sport he loves – and the sport that loves him. Grazie Vale, from millions of fans around the globe!
Morbidelli crossed the line less than a second away from Rossi as the Italian now aims to get fully fit for 2022, Andrea Dovizioso (Petronas Yamaha SRT) had a good final weekend of the season to finish in P12, and Alex Marquez (LCR Honda Castrol), Miguel Oliveira (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) and WorldSBK-bound Lecuona take home the final points of 2021.
Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu) joined Rins in suffering a DNF in Valencia, the Japanese rider was perfectly ok after his Turn 6 crash.
And that, as they say, is a wrap. The curtain comes down on 2021, as we say ciao to the icon that is Valentino Rossi. The number 46 will be missed immensely on and off track in 2022 and beyond, but MotoGP™ couldn’t be in a better place. The next generation is here, Rossi’s legacy will live on with his VR46 Academy and new MotoGP™ team, and Yamaha and Quartararo will be aiming to defend their title against a whole host of unbelievable bikes and riders. What a year! And #GrazieVale!
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Accessibility
Accessibility modes
Epilepsy Safe Mode
Dampens color and removes blinks
This mode enables people with epilepsy to use the website safely by eliminating the risk of seizures that result from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.
Visually Impaired Mode
Improves website's visuals
This mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
Cognitive Disability Mode
Helps to focus on specific content
This mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
ADHD Friendly Mode
Reduces distractions and improve focus
This mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
Blindness Mode
Allows using the site with your screen-reader
This mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
Online Dictionary
Readable Experience
Content Scaling
Default
Text Magnifier
Readable Font
Dyslexia Friendly
Highlight Titles
Highlight Links
Font Sizing
Default
Line Height
Default
Letter Spacing
Default
Left Aligned
Center Aligned
Right Aligned
Visually Pleasing Experience
Dark Contrast
Light Contrast
Monochrome
High Contrast
High Saturation
Low Saturation
Adjust Text Colors
Adjust Title Colors
Adjust Background Colors
Easy Orientation
Mute Sounds
Hide Images
Hide Emoji
Reading Guide
Stop Animations
Reading Mask
Highlight Hover
Highlight Focus
Big Dark Cursor
Big Light Cursor
Cognitive Reading
Virtual Keyboard
Navigation Keys
Voice Navigation
Accessibility Statement
www.roadracingworld.com
November 11, 2026
Compliance status
We firmly believe that the internet should be available and accessible to anyone, and are committed to providing a website that is accessible to the widest possible audience,
regardless of circumstance and ability.
To fulfill this, we aim to adhere as strictly as possible to the World Wide Web Consortium’s (W3C) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 (WCAG 2.1) at the AA level.
These guidelines explain how to make web content accessible to people with a wide array of disabilities. Complying with those guidelines helps us ensure that the website is accessible
to all people: blind people, people with motor impairments, visual impairment, cognitive disabilities, and more.
This website utilizes various technologies that are meant to make it as accessible as possible at all times. We utilize an accessibility interface that allows persons with specific
disabilities to adjust the website’s UI (user interface) and design it to their personal needs.
Additionally, the website utilizes an AI-based application that runs in the background and optimizes its accessibility level constantly. This application remediates the website’s HTML,
adapts Its functionality and behavior for screen-readers used by the blind users, and for keyboard functions used by individuals with motor impairments.
If you’ve found a malfunction or have ideas for improvement, we’ll be happy to hear from you. You can reach out to the website’s operators by using the following email
Screen-reader and keyboard navigation
Our website implements the ARIA attributes (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) technique, alongside various different behavioral changes, to ensure blind users visiting with
screen-readers are able to read, comprehend, and enjoy the website’s functions. As soon as a user with a screen-reader enters your site, they immediately receive
a prompt to enter the Screen-Reader Profile so they can browse and operate your site effectively. Here’s how our website covers some of the most important screen-reader requirements,
alongside console screenshots of code examples:
Screen-reader optimization: we run a background process that learns the website’s components from top to bottom, to ensure ongoing compliance even when updating the website.
In this process, we provide screen-readers with meaningful data using the ARIA set of attributes. For example, we provide accurate form labels;
descriptions for actionable icons (social media icons, search icons, cart icons, etc.); validation guidance for form inputs; element roles such as buttons, menus, modal dialogues (popups),
and others. Additionally, the background process scans all the website’s images and provides an accurate and meaningful image-object-recognition-based description as an ALT (alternate text) tag
for images that are not described. It will also extract texts that are embedded within the image, using an OCR (optical character recognition) technology.
To turn on screen-reader adjustments at any time, users need only to press the Alt+1 keyboard combination. Screen-reader users also get automatic announcements to turn the Screen-reader mode on
as soon as they enter the website.
These adjustments are compatible with all popular screen readers, including JAWS and NVDA.
Keyboard navigation optimization: The background process also adjusts the website’s HTML, and adds various behaviors using JavaScript code to make the website operable by the keyboard. This includes the ability to navigate the website using the Tab and Shift+Tab keys, operate dropdowns with the arrow keys, close them with Esc, trigger buttons and links using the Enter key, navigate between radio and checkbox elements using the arrow keys, and fill them in with the Spacebar or Enter key.Additionally, keyboard users will find quick-navigation and content-skip menus, available at any time by clicking Alt+1, or as the first elements of the site while navigating with the keyboard. The background process also handles triggered popups by moving the keyboard focus towards them as soon as they appear, and not allow the focus drift outside it.
Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.
Disability profiles supported in our website
Epilepsy Safe Mode: this profile enables people with epilepsy to use the website safely by eliminating the risk of seizures that result from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.
Visually Impaired Mode: this mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
Cognitive Disability Mode: this mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
ADHD Friendly Mode: this mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
Blindness Mode: this mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
Keyboard Navigation Profile (Motor-Impaired): this profile enables motor-impaired persons to operate the website using the keyboard Tab, Shift+Tab, and the Enter keys. Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.
Additional UI, design, and readability adjustments
Font adjustments – users, can increase and decrease its size, change its family (type), adjust the spacing, alignment, line height, and more.
Color adjustments – users can select various color contrast profiles such as light, dark, inverted, and monochrome. Additionally, users can swap color schemes of titles, texts, and backgrounds, with over seven different coloring options.
Animations – person with epilepsy can stop all running animations with the click of a button. Animations controlled by the interface include videos, GIFs, and CSS flashing transitions.
Content highlighting – users can choose to emphasize important elements such as links and titles. They can also choose to highlight focused or hovered elements only.
Audio muting – users with hearing devices may experience headaches or other issues due to automatic audio playing. This option lets users mute the entire website instantly.
Cognitive disorders – we utilize a search engine that is linked to Wikipedia and Wiktionary, allowing people with cognitive disorders to decipher meanings of phrases, initials, slang, and others.
Additional functions – we provide users the option to change cursor color and size, use a printing mode, enable a virtual keyboard, and many other functions.
Browser and assistive technology compatibility
We aim to support the widest array of browsers and assistive technologies as possible, so our users can choose the best fitting tools for them, with as few limitations as possible. Therefore, we have worked very hard to be able to support all major systems that comprise over 95% of the user market share including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Opera and Microsoft Edge, JAWS and NVDA (screen readers).
Notes, comments, and feedback
Despite our very best efforts to allow anybody to adjust the website to their needs. There may still be pages or sections that are not fully accessible, are in the process of becoming accessible, or are lacking an adequate technological solution to make them accessible. Still, we are continually improving our accessibility, adding, updating and improving its options and features, and developing and adopting new technologies. All this is meant to reach the optimal level of accessibility, following technological advancements. For any assistance, please reach out to
