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WorldSBK: Gardner On Top As Testing Concludes At Jerez

David Swarts
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WorldSBK: Gardner On Top As Testing Concludes At Jerez

Day 2 at Jerez test: Gardner dominates, Yamaha’s strong showing, and impressive rides by Bulega & Iannone

On the second day of testing at Jerez, the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship riders faced challenging conditions in the morning but took full advantage of a drier track by midday, allowing for around six hours of crucial testing at the Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto.

Remy Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) continued to dominate the field, setting an impressive lap time of 1’38.448s, leading the pack by 0.278s. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) was second with a remarkable 1’38.726s lap time, coming within two tenths of the all-time lap record, while teammate Alvaro Bautista was in seventh place with a best time of 1’39.962s.

Jonathan Rea (Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK) adapted well to his new Yamaha R1, finishing third. Alex Lowes (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) secured a fourth-place finish, clocking a 1’39.211s lap time while teammate Axel Bassani adapted to his new bike, completing over 120 laps during the test. Meanwhile, Andrea Iannone (Team GoEleven) surprised with fifth place and a lap time of 1’39.335s after completing 70 laps.

 

Scott Redding. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Scott Redding. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

Scott Redding (Bonovo Action BMW) emerged as the fastest BMW rider, taking tenth place, ahead of his teammate Garrett Gerloff. Tarran Mackenzie (PETRONAS MIE Racing Honda Team), Honda’s sole representative at Jerez, completed 39 laps as he continued to adapt to the CBR1000RR-R machine after racing in WorldSSP throughout 2023.

Remy Gardner | GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team

“It’s been a positive test. The pace has been really good over the two days, with the race tyre and obviously today, at the end, we put in two SCQs and did a really great lap time. There was a little bit more I could’ve done. I made a few mistakes on that lap but quite happy with the two days went. It wasn’t a perfect lap, but it wasn’t bad. More than the lap, I’m happy with the improvements we’ve made over the two days with what Yamaha have brought.

“Jonny surprised me with how fast he got on with the bike. That shows the experience he has. I’m really excited to see what Jonny can bring to the table and help develop the bike, and also for me to learn off Jonny. With so much experience, you can always learn something. Really great to have Jonny with Yamaha.”

 

Nicolo Bulega (11). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Nicolo Bulega (11). Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

Nicolo Bulega left a strong impression by claiming the second position with an impressive lap time of 1’38.726s.

 

Alvaro Bautista. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Alvaro Bautista. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

Despite focusing on the 2024 ruleset, Alvaro Bautista managed seventh place with a best time of 1’39.962s.

Alvaro Bautista | Aruba.it Racing – Ducati

“Today, we were focused on the 2024 regulations especially with the weight. We tried many solutions with the weight. Putting some weight on some areas of the bike, also trying inside the engine, and did many tests to understand how the bike’s working. It’s not easy because when the bike’s working well, if you add 7kg, the bike feels different especially in the fast corners. We made some distribution to have more data and we got that data for this winter to try to work and try to see what could be the base for starting 2024.”

 

Jonathan Rea (65). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Jonathan Rea (65). Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

Jonathan Rea continued his adaptation to Yamaha, finishing third with a lap time of 1’39.179s.

 

Alex Lowes. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Alex Lowes. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

Alex Lowes wrapped up the day in fourth place, focusing on a range of adjustments in anticipation of the 2024 season.

 

Andrea Iannone (29). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Andrea Iannone (29). Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

Andrea Iannone delivered a strong fifth place, posting a lap time of 1’39.335s.

 

Tarran Mackenzie. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Tarran Mackenzie. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

Tarran Mackenzie continued his adaptation to the Honda CBR1000RR-R, completing 39 laps and taking the 13th position.

The order from day two at Jerez:
 

1. Remy Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) 1’38.448, 61 laps

2. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team) 1’38.726s, 52 laps

3. Jonathan Rea (Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK) 1’39.179s, 68 laps

4. Alex Lowes (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) 1’39.211s, 68 laps

5. Andrea Iannone (Team GoEleven) 1’39.335s, 69 laps

6. Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Motocorsa Racing) 1’39.807s, 69 laps

7. Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’39.962s, 58 laps

8. Brad Ray (GMT94 Yamaha) 1’40.007s, 59 laps

9. Dominique Aegerter (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) 1’40.103s, 67 laps

10. Scott Redding (Bonovo Action BMW) 1’40.291s, 47 laps

11. Garrett Gerloff (Bonovo Action BMW) 1’40.334s, 66 laps

12. Axel Bassani (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) 1’41.346s, 54 laps

13. Tarran Mackenzie (PETRONAS MIE Racing Honda Team) 1’42.110s, 38 laps

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Aruba.it Racing Ducati:

Convincing test for Bulega who finishes second at Jerez. Bautista (P9) works exclusively on the new 2024 set-up. Intense first days of work for Huertas on the Panigale V2

Two days of private testing at the “Circuito Jerez de la Frontera Angel Nieto” concluded today, bringing a definitive close to the memorable 2023 WorldSBK season for the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team.

The weather was not particularly favorable, allowing Alvaro Bautista and Nicolò Bulega only a few laps on Day 1, moreover on a track in less than optimal conditions due to some very wet patches. The same scenario unfolded on Day-2, during which the two reigning World Champions of WorldSBK and WorldSSP, entered the track only at the beginning of the afternoon session.

It was, however, a very intense four hours of testing. Nicolò Bulega got familiar with the Panigale V4R that he will use in the 2024 season, even setting the second fastest time of the day (1.38.726).

Alvaro Bautista, on the other hand, started work on the set-up he will have to adopt in the 2024 season after the introduction of the new weight balance regulation. The Spanish rider finished with a time of 1’39.962, without attempting the time attack.

His season, however, does not end here. Bautista, in fact, will be flying to Malaysia next week, for the MotoGP Wild Card aboard the Ducati Desmosedici GP of the Aruba.it Racing team.

Nicolò Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #11)

“I’m happy even though we weren’t able to complete not so many because of the track conditions. Even today we only did half a day but I still managed to be fast despite it was the first real test with my new team. There is still a lot of work to do but the fact that we are fast even though we are not yet at 100% of our potential gives me a lot of confidence”.

Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #1)

“We have done a lot of work on the new weight balance and it is clear that there is a lot of work to do in the future before the start of next season. The positive thing is that we gathered a lot of data this afternoon so we can find effective solutions this winter. Now we go to Malaysia for the MotoGP Wild Card with the aim of having as much fun as we have had this season in WorldSBK.”

WorldSSP

For Andrian Huertas it was the absolute debut on the Ducati Panigale V2 of the Aruba.it Racing WSSP. For the Spanish rider 77 laps completed today with the best time of 1’42.470.

Adrian Huertas (Aruba.it Racing WSSP #99)

“I am very happy with these two days. The team’s welcome was fantastic. I felt immediately at ease like in a big family. And of course, I am very satisfied with the feeling with the Panigale V2. Unfortunately, I wasn’t 100% today because of a slight flu but that didn’t stop me from completing a lot of laps and gaining confidence ahead of the next tests. Once again I would like to thank the team for these first few days of work, which have been really positive”.

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Kawasaki:

First New Look KRT Winter Test Complete

The first winter test in preparation for the 2024 WorldSBK Championship took place between 31 October to 1 November, at the Circuito de Jerez in Spain, with the refreshed KRT line-up of Alex Lowes and Axel Bassani taking to the track for the first time together.

The test provided some changeable track conditions but the riders made the best of the better weather to get used to the their latest spec Ninja ZX-10RR machines, at the circuit that very recently hosted the final races of the 2023 season.

Due to the track conditions changing over the two day test, which was also attended by many of KRT’s rivals in 2024, the most useable track time was weighted towards the final afternoon, on Wednesday 1 November.

Lowes would go on to set a best laptime of 1’39.211, while new signing for 2024, Axel Bassani eased himself into his new role with a 1’41. 346 as he started to learn the finer points of his new machine.

Alex rode despite suffering a crash in the Superpole Race at the Jerez round a few days ago. He had to have stitches on his face at that time and was still feeling the affects of the abrasions and cuts from a rival’s rear tyre that ripped his helmet visor off as he fell.

Bassani’s first experience of the Ninja ZX-10RR was very positive, even if it is a very different configuration of machine compared to what he has been used to riding for his past few years in WorldSBK. Axel set 54 laps on the final day of this test.

This was also the first on-track opportunity for KRT to unveil its striking and distinctive winter test livery, a tradition which stretches back many seasons.

The next chance for the team to get on track will be between 12-13 November, at Motorland Aragon.

Alex Lowes, stated: “I was really happy to get the 70 laps that we put in today. It seems like we had to wait ages for the track to dry but we had some important things to try on the bike in order to to get our first feelings about 2024. With Axel just joining the team the only person who can compare the new items to the previous ones at this test is me. I didn’t feel in my best shape after the race weekend, because of my face and my eyes, but on the bike I enjoyed riding. I also enjoyed the new environment working with Pere as my crew chief. We have a really good idea of what to improve, both from me and the bike. This was a very positive first proper day together.”

Axel Bassani, stated: “The bike is completely different so we have to learn everything. Lap-by-lap I started to feel good with the bike and these are only the first two days. It is like one day because on the first day we didn’t run in the afternoon, and also this morning. But, step-by-step, we are trying to learn and to be even better. The bike is completely different and when something is new you have to take time to understand and when you are ready you can push. The only answer to what I need is time. There are a lot of people with a lot of experience in this team so it is nice to be part of it. It’s a special team for me.”

Pere Riba, Crew Chief for Alex Lowes, stated: “We finished the test with Alex and some new crew members. It has been quite smooth and positive. It is the first time I have worked with Alex in the pit box, and there is a lot to learn, but it has been very positive. Alex has a very, very good attitude and already we have been testing something for Showa and some things for the future, with a good result. Alex had very good speed during the race weekend he has shown good speed here. He was in good shape even after his big crash. For the first day, the experience together was positive. All the crew worked together very well. I am happy to leave from Jerez with a good feeling and Alex seems to have a nice smile on his face, and this is the most important thing.”

Marcel Duinker, Crew Chief for Axel Bassani, stated: “Over these two days we made around 60 flying laps in all. Axel has done a very good job and it is very pleasant to work with him. I am sure with his previous experience of WorldSBK he can help us to make a step forward. How he was riding the bike and how he explained the sensations from the bike – and the way he is putting his finger on the areas where we need to improve was impressive. Many people used soft compound tyres, but we did not. We were focusing on improving our base set-up with a harder race tyre. That is why many people made big jumps in their lap times today but that was not our target. Our target was to let Axel understand the bike. I am very optimistic and he is a really, really nice guy to work with. It was a very good start and everybody enjoyed it. ”

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Yamaha:

Jonathan Rea Enjoys First R1 Test with Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK

The “JR” #65 Yamaha R1 WorldSBK made its debut at the hands of six-time FIM Superbike World Champion Jonathan Rea for Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK yesterday morning, beginning a two-day test and a new chapter for both team and rider at Circuito de Jerez – Ángel Nieto.

While inclement weather on Tuesday meant just seven full timed laps were completed (12 in total), today was a chance for the Northern Irishman to really engage with his new R1 and the team as early winter Spanish sunshine allowed more track time.

Completing 68 laps after an early lunch, Rea took the third-fastest spot on his final lap just before the end of the test – with fellow Yamaha rider Remy Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha) making the fastest lap with a 1:38.448, which would have seen him take pole position last weekend.

The next chance to get further acquainted with his new R1 WorldSBK for Rea will be on 20-21 November back here at Jerez, alongside teammate Andrea Locatelli – with a key focus on 2024 development with Yamaha’s engineers.

 

Jonathan Rea – 1:39.179

“My first feelings with this team have been fantastic, ever since I agreed to make the move. Both the team and Yamaha have been really welcoming and making everything easy. The first test was just about getting familiar with the bike – it was a bit of a shock, I had a lot of different sensations than I am used to – but in a positive way! The R1 is very user-friendly – not necessarily easy to go to the absolute limit just yet, but easy to ride. It generates a lot of traction which encourages you to go fast and inspires confidence. You can get into the throttle and use the power of the machine – it feels good and now I can see how Toprak was riding the way he was, also Loka being so competitive this year. It’s all good! Just a nice first contact with the set-up and the team, so I expect next time we can get more deeply into it. Step-by-step today we have tried some different things, fork spec, different tyre combinations so that I can understand how the Yamaha uses different compounds – I could see from the past that Yamaha have been able to maximise the SCX tyre. I requested some different electronics set-up – but not really too much. I have been using the current “base setting” let’s say of the R1 and in the next test we will start to work on development parts. A really positive experience on both days and the R1 is feeling more like my bike, particularly as we have been lucky with the weather this afternoon and got through more than we expected. I’m sure I could wake up tomorrow and even more performance would come but now I have to wait a couple of weeks…! Thanks to everybody – I really enjoyed myself!”

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Team Go Eleven:

EIGHT TENTHS FROM THE TOP, ASTONISHING PERFORMANCE AT THE END OF DAY-2!
 

No one questioned that Andrea was a talent; but it was almost impossible to expect that, after 4 years without riding a racing bike, five years after his last race in Jerez de la Frontera, he finished the first pre-season tests around eight tenths from the first of the day.

Today, finally a complete day of test, thanks to the warm sun of Southern Spain, The Maniac was able to start working on the bike, testing all types of tyres, both in hot asphalt conditions and with the fresh wind towards the evening. The work on fine-tuning the electronics and the comparison with the other riders was also important, a fact which allowed the number 29 to lower the references session after session, improving mainly in the second part of the track. He did the low 40 pace several times, then in the last hour he opted to use the SCQ. Usually, it is not easy to exploit this particular tyre with extra-grip at the first attempt, 1.39.335, almost eight tenths improved, ending in fifth place.

Despite the tiredness and arm pumps, due to little training on this type of very physical motorbike, the laptime obtained surprised most of the paddock staff, almost exceeding all expectations. There is still a lot of work to do, especially on the race pace, but the smile that Andrea showed at the end of the day fills the hearts of the whole team. He has his head down and a lot of work, with the aim of further sewing the bike together in view of the next tests, at the end of January!

Andrea Iannone (Rider): “Today was certainly a positive day because we managed to lap much more than yesterday, this allowed us to better understand the bike and the tyres which performed very well. The approach on the Panigale was a shock for me lightning fast. It’s a bike that has very high power, and today my arms suffered a little from this. I thank Ducati and the Go Eleven team for all the effort they put into this test. It has been crucial our positive mood to face this tests.”
 

Denis Sacchetti (Team Manager): “Today Andrea sent a strong message, the desire to come back racing is very high and has left everyone, including ourselves, speechless! I am happy not for the laptime, but for the approach he had, his working method and the smile he showed today when he got off the bike. That smile counts more than all the data a monitor can show us!”

More On Suzuki’s Hayabusa Homecoming On November 11

David Swarts
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More On Suzuki’s Hayabusa Homecoming On November 11

Suzuki Motor USA invites Suzuki owners to join the Hayabusa Homecoming, a commemoration of the 25th Anniversary of the legendary Suzuki Hayabusa during the In-N-Out Burger Finals at the NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series. Happening November 11th at one of the birthplaces of professional drag racing; In-N-Out Burger Dragstrip, Pomona, CA. Free entry for the first 200 registered Suzuki owners, plus many planned events.

For more information and to register for the event, click here: https://suzukicycles.com/racing/hayabusa-homecoming

#Suzuki #SuzukiCycles #Hayabusa

Video: New Jersey Motorsports Park Repaving Project Is Progressing

David Swarts
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Video: New Jersey Motorsports Park Repaving Project Is Progressing

Happening Now at New Jersey Motorsports Park

Phase 1 of the Thunderbolt Raceway Track Repave Project

Repaving Project Underway at the Classic Road-Racing Circuit

Check Out The Latest Updates!

Phase 1 of the two-phase multi-year project continues at the construction team finishes the base paving. As the base cures, the contractor will continue to verify grades, conduct smoothness riding tests and proof rolling. The goal is to assure perfection in the base layer.

Next, they will begin clearing the trees behind Turn 1 and work on expanding the gravel pit beginning at Turn 1.

Still to come is the laying of the track surface and chicanes over the base surface and 2” on pit lane. This is the critical step! After curing, there will be another round and smoothness and density testing.

Portions of the curbing will be removed and renovated. The profile of Turn 1 will be altered slightly with the apex curbing placed further inside, taking advantage of the unused space and pavement at that point of the turn.

The asphalt and concrete work will be completed by Thanksgiving. The new track base and surface will be allowed to cure from December through February.

The final touches and line painting will be done late in February, and Thunderbolt will reopen for normal business operations in early March, 2024.

Phase 2 – the addition of two new alternative course configurations inside the classic Thunderbolt circuit – has been rescheduled for after the 2024 season.

 

Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course Has Been Repaved

David Swarts
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Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course Has Been Repaved

Full repave of racing surface completed at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course

Planning for comprehensive project began in 2022

LEXINGTON, Ohio – A full repave project of the entire racing surface at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course was completed last week, officials from Green Savoree Racing Promotions, which owns and operates the track, announced [October 31]. Ohio-based Kokosing Construction Company, Inc. began initial repair work the week of October 16th, followed by milling the existing track surface on Monday, October 23 and completing the paving of the final asphalt surface layer on Friday, October 27. 

The project was a collaborative effort using the expert services of Kokosing Construction Company, Inc., Kokosing Materials, Inc. and Advanced Materials Services, LLC. Planning and thorough research for the repaving began in 2022 with a test layer placed in Turn 1 for performance evaluation of a racetrack-specific asphalt mixture during the 2023 racing season. The Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course racing surface was last repaved starting fall 2005 and completed in spring 2006.

“We were blessed with outstanding weather last week for the crews to complete this major project in a relatively short amount of time,” said Kevin Savoree, co-owner, president and chief operating officer of Green Savoree Racing Promotions. “It was a tremendous accomplishment and collaboration between Kokosing Construction, Kokosing Materials, Advanced Materials Services and our own track operations team to make it happen. We look forward to getting race cars on it for the first time next spring!”

Last week’s work utilized approximately 100 people, 5,000 manpower hours, 15 trucks to remove approximately 6,000 tons (300 truckloads) of old track material and 30 trucks to haul in 6,000 tons of the new asphalt mixture onto the property. The project encompassed 11,550 feet of surface paving, 3,500 feet of various turn reinforcement, 500 feet of full depth repair in the Keyhole and Turn 12 areas and 300 feet of transverse joint repair.

After milling the racing surface, the second step of the process for Kokosing featured asphalt repairs and reinforcement of high stress areas which required additional milling depth. For the final stage, two pavers placed the asphalt surface layer at 40-foot width around the entire circuit, working in echelon (side-by-side pattern) to avoid a centerline joint throughout the track’s 2.258-mile, 13-turn or 2.4-mile, 15-turn layout. The old, milled track material is being recycled and regraded to create additional paddock and parking surface areas on the Mid-Ohio property. 

“Plans for the 2023 project started in 2022, immediately after completing the resurfacing of Turn 1,” said Bart Moody, vice president of asphalt estimating and engineering at Kokosing Construction Company, Inc. “Logistical challenges had to be overcome to produce the mix and perform the work with limited time and access. A full-time truck coordinator was in constant communication with material trucks to ensure they entered and exited the track at the correct locations as work progressed. Crews worked extended hours in order to maintain the schedule that made use of unseasonably warm weather for October in Ohio.”

Aggregates were sourced locally in Ohio from Olen Corporation’s Upper Sandusky and Fredericktown plants. Durable aggregates were selected to withstand the loading applied to the track, and a highly polymerized asphalt binder was produced by Kokosing Materials, Inc. to withstand the high temperatures and stresses. The asphalt mixture used was tested at the Kokosing Materials Asphalt Plant and at the track for a variety of properties such as asphalt content, gradation and density. 

“The stresses on a racetrack, especially road courses with tight turns, are much higher than those typically seen on conventional asphalt pavements,” said Graham Hurley, project engineer at Advanced Materials Services, LLC. “The much stiffer PG 88-22 asphalt binder used counteracts the shear stresses imparted on the track surface by race cars, which prevents any ravelling that may occur. Additionally, the specifications used for this project were much tighter than a traditional highway specification. The target minimum softening temperature for asphalt binder and the target in-place density values were both set higher than conventional specifications for vehicular traffic. Kokosing successfully met these higher conditions with ease.”

The new track surface will be allowed to cure for over five months in advance of the 2024 season. The road course annually hosts a variety of locally, regionally and nationally sanctioned race events as well the driving and riding courses provided by The Mid-Ohio School. 

The full schedule and ticket information for the 2024 major spectator events featuring IMSA, SVRA’s SpeedTour, NTT INDYCAR SERIES, American Motorcyclist Association and MotoAmerica will be announced at a later date. Children 12 and under receive free general admission when accompanied by a ticketed adult at all Mid-Ohio events. Visit midohio.com for more information, and follow its Facebook page @MidOhioSportsCarCourse, Twitter at @Mid_Ohio or Instagram at @officialmidohio for the latest news. 

About Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course:

A comprehensive motorsports facility in Lexington, Ohio, Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course sits on 380 acres and features a permanent road-racing circuit with two primary race track configurations: 2.4-mile, 15-turn or 2.258-mile, 13-turn layout. Located 60 miles north of Columbus and 75 miles south of Cleveland near Mansfield, the natural terrain road course is commonly referred to as the “Most Competitive in the U.S.” and annually hosts a diversity of locally, regionally and nationally-sanctioned race events for amateur, club and professional drivers and riders. It is also home to The Mid-Ohio School, featuring over 20 driving and riding courses, for teenagers to professional racers using Honda vehicles. Opened in 1962, Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course has been owned and operated by Green Savoree Mid-Ohio, LLC since 2011, just the raceway’s third private ownership group in its history.

For more information, visit midohio.com, ‘like’ its Facebook page @MidOhioSportsCarCourse or follow updates on Twitter @Mid_Ohio and Instagram @officialmidohio.

About Kokosing:

Kokosing is one of the largest family-owned construction companies in the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic. Known for unwavering integrity and exceptional safety and quality, Kokosing companies provide extensive resources for their customers. Kokosing’s primary business lines include industrial, transportation, pipelines, water and wastewater, marine and renewable energy. Additionally, aggregates and asphalt material suppliers are part of the Kokosing family of companies.

About Advanced Materials Services LLC:

Founded in 2007 and located in Auburn, Alabama, Advanced Materials Services, LLC provides pavement engineering, testing, and consulting services. AMS supports all aspects of flexible pavement design, testing, and construction inspection, particularly for specialty pavements, such as airfields, automotive proving grounds, intermodal facilities, and racetracks. AMS staff have over 60 years of cumulative experience in the development of asphalt specifications, asphalt mixture design, quality assurance support, materials research, and geotechnical engineering. To date, AMS has provided support to over 35 racetracks across the country.
 

WorldSBK: Gardner Quickest On Day One Of Post-Season Testing At Jerez

David Swarts
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WorldSBK: Gardner Quickest On Day One Of Post-Season Testing At Jerez

Jerez hosts first WorldSBK off-season test, Gardner fastest on Day 1

On a day marked by challenging weather conditions at Jerez, the first off-season test saw a mix of achievements and setbacks among top riders. Remy Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) emerged as the standout performer, setting the pace with an impressive 1’39.837s, despite limited track time due to rain. Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Motocorsa Racing) secured the second spot with a lap time of 1’40.034s.

Meanwhile, Jonathan Rea (Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK) made his debut with Yamaha, securing the fourth position. Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) faced a more challenging day, experiencing a crash at Turn 13, but he managed to set a lap time of 1’40.564s, placing him in fifth. His new teammate, 2023 WorldSSP Champion Nicolo Bulega, finished eighth, focusing on adapting his riding style and bike setup.

Andrea Iannone (Team GoEleven) marked his return to racing bikes with 26 laps and a lap time of 1’41.922s, while Axel Bassani (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) made his first appearance with the KRT team, finishing ninth with a lap time of 1’41.333s. Garrett Gerloff (Bonovo Action BMW) was the lead rider for BMW, posting a lap time of 1’41.193s, while Scott Redding made his debut with the Independent BMW outfit.

 

Jonathan Rea (65). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Jonathan Rea (65). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Jonathan Rea marked his first appearance with the Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK team, achieving a fourth-place finish.

Jonathan Rea | Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK

“It was fantastic to get the first laps on the R1 because you always have anticipation and maybe a preconception of how the bike’s going to be. I’ve been super excited until this morning, and then I got really nervous all of a sudden. I was thinking ‘can I be fast with the bike?’ or ‘what’s it going to feel like sitting on the bike during the bike fit?’. I got comfortable but the position felt strange, and I couldn’t imagine riding the bike. As soon as I exited pitlane, there were a lot of positives straight away I could take. We did three outings. The weather has been far from perfect. Even this morning, at a lot of corners, it was full of wet patches. Just before lunch, we got a lot of drizzle and then the track got soaked. We considered keeping the bike nice and dry for tomorrow and keeping with the test plan. Hopefully the track can dry out tonight, maybe it’ll be a late start tomorrow, but it’s also important to ride in the wet.”

 

Michael Rinaldi (21). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Michael Rinaldi (21). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Michael Ruben Rinaldi secured the second spot with a lap time of 1’40.034s on his Motocorsa Racing debut.

 

Alvaro Bautista (1). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Alvaro Bautista (1). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Despite a crash at Turn 13, Alvaro Bautista managed to secure fifth place in the timesheets.

 

Nicolo Bulega. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Nicolo Bulega. Photo courtesy Dorna.

Nicolo Bulega finished in eighth position, lapping around seven tenths slower than his experienced new teammate Bautista.

 

Andrea Iannone (29). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Andrea Iannone (29). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Andrea Iannone completed 26 laps and set a lap time of 1’41.922s, as he focused on rediscovering the feeling with the bike.

 

Axel Bassani (left) with his Crew Chief Marcel Duinker (right). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Axel Bassani (left) with his Crew Chief Marcel Duinker (right). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Axel Bassani made his first appearance with the Kawasaki Racing Team, securing a tenth place finish.

California Superbike School Releases Its 2024 Schedule

David Swarts
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California Superbike School Releases Its 2024 Schedule

Our 2024 schedule is live!

We are also getting a new fleet of 2024 BMW S1000RR’s.

A few comments about the tracks:

-Thunderbolt in New Jersey is getting repaved right now.

-Sonoma Raceway also reported they are repaving in January.

-PittRace is on almost everyone’s short list of favorite tracks.

-Barber filled quickly last year so if you’re interested, don’t wait too long.

-The Ridge in Washington State has us there 6 days straight in July.

-Vegas is a great cold season track to visit; the weather is typically mild the dates we attend.

-Willow Springs after its repave still charms with its smooth flowing layout.

Call the office at 800-530-3350 or go online to lock in your spots for the 2024 season.

We will see you at the track!

See our Schedule

Click here to sign up for a class

Call us toll-free (800) 530-3350 to check availability

Intro: 2024 Kawasaki ZX-6R Makes Cleaner Old-School Power

Trudy Ulrich
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Intro: 2024 Kawasaki ZX-6R Makes Cleaner Old-School Power

Featured In the October 2023 issue of Roadracing World:

        Big changes can occur so slowly that it is tough to look backwards and find the inflection point. There was a blessed time when sportbikes ruled the streets. The ethos of ‘win on Sunday, sell on Monday’ fueled rapid technological progress and, more importantly, contingency money to help fuel road racing. 

        Every Japanese factory had, at least, a 600cc and an open-class bike. A few had 400cc 4-cylinder bikes and, perhaps the most perfect sporting displacement, the 750cc. Eventually the trends of demographics, economics, regulations (government and racing), and tastes began to evaporate this sea of choices. 

        A decade ago no one had a Tarot card that said the European brands were going to dominate Moto GP and that there wouldn’t be a 600cc racing class in the U.S. national series—but here we are…

            “Intro: 2024 Kawasaki ZX-6R: Cleaner Old-School Power,” by Sam Fleming

 

            While some other factories seem to have thrown in the towel on street-legal, fast middleweights, Kawasaki shaved a hair off the cams, moved power a little lower in the rpm range, and slid the ZX-6R through Euro5 emissions to be one of the last, street-legal middleweight four-cylinder sportbikes. Read Sam Fleming’s impressions in the latest issue of Roadracing World!

 

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine is available in print and digital formats.

PREVIEW  October 2023 Issue of Roadracing World

Click to SUBSCRIBE NOW ! Or call (909) 654-4779, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday.

—Read the October 2023 issue of Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology with your online subscription. Log in HERE

 

Available at Cycle Gear and other motorcycle retailers.

Visit www.roadracingworld.com daily for breaking news and events.

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Click here for Roadracing World sample issue (One sample issue per household, U.S. address only.)

Yamaha Adds Technology Features To Restyled 2024 MT-09

David Swarts
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Yamaha Adds Technology Features To Restyled 2024 MT-09

Yamaha Unleashes Next Generation MT-09

Sharper, Purer, More Refined
 

MARIETTA, Ga. – October 31, 2023 – Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA is excited to announce the evolution of its class leading Hyper Naked middleweight, the all-new 2024 Yamaha MT-09. With its bold styling update, more engaged riding position, and enhanced technological and convenience features, its clearly aimed at raising the bar for Hyper Naked performance once again.

2024 Yamaha MT-09

Originally deemed the FZ-09 in the United States, the first MT-09 broke cover in 2013, just one year after the now legendary triple-cylinder CP3 engine was first displayed as a prototype, suspended in an intricate wire frame at the Cologne Motorcycle Show. Over the years, the MT-09 has evolved into one of the most significant and successful models in the Yamaha range, earning its iconic status in Yamaha’s history. As the original Hyper Naked born out of the Dark Side of Japan design concept, the MT-09 has always been the purest of all MT models, with its dark and mysterious aesthetic and raw, thrilling performance leaving a lasting impression on motorcycle enthusiasts around the globe.

A Decade of the Dark Side of Japan

The introduction of the MT-09 marked a step away from conventional Japanese motorcycle design and introduced a bold, abstract new direction for Yamaha inspired by the unique urban motorcycle sub-culture found on the streets of Japan’s largest cities. Signifying an exciting new era, the MT-09 featured aggressive styling, a chassis designed for light, agile handling and a torque-laden CP3 engine to stimulate the senses. Stripped of unnecessary bodywork, packed neatly into a compact aluminum frame and equipped with Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T), the MT was the perfect blend of high performance, cutting-edge technology and purposeful functionality. The Dark Side of Japan was unleashed upon the world.

The new 2024 MT-09 retains the previous model’s winning formula—mating Yamaha’s world-renowned 890cc DOHC inline Triple engine with a lightweight controlled fill die-cast aluminum frame, well-sorted KYB suspension and class-leading standard electronics package—and adds a long list of new features to further enhance the unique and thrilling MT experience.

A Slimmer, Sharper New Look

The MT-09 marks its 10th anniversary with a comprehensive new design intended to amplify the sense of raw power and stripped-back agility. The styling concept behind the MT-09 has always been that of ‘functional beauty’, eliminating unnecessary features and embodying a ‘less is more’ approach. Every detail has been re-considered to reinforce the MT-09’s aggressive look and offer an even more engaging riding experience.

A new LED headlight, shrouded in a redesigned cover, creates a more unified relationship between the front end, updated fuel tank design and tail section. The bi-functional LED projector now features a compact diameter lens module that is both smaller and thinner than the previous model, but still provides a broad, powerful beam. Transparent twin LED position lights complete the MT-09’s more compact, sharp and aggressive face. This theme is continued at the rear with a newly designed LED taillight with a slimmer look and new color layout, along with LED turn signals.

A new fuel tank design is shaped to promote more freedom of movement. Produced using a press molding manufacturing method, the new steel tank has sharper, more defined lines while still maintaining the distinctively modern street aesthetic that has become synonymous with the MT name. The new tank also sits 30mm lower for a more forward-leaning stance.

More Engaged Ergonomics

Already renowned for its engaging riding experience, ergonomics on the new 2024 MT-09 are further enhanced allowing the rider to feel more at one with the machine. In order to achieve this, handlebar position is now lower and features two customizable settings. Newly designed footrests sit slightly more rearward and are also adjustable. Combined with the lower fuel tank design, riding position is more dedicated and handlebar steering angle is four degrees greater on each side for a tighter turning radius and excellent low-speed maneuverability. Additionally, the new two-part seat design is slimmer for increased freedom of movement and an easier reach to the ground.

Larger Five-Inch TFT Display & Updated Switchgear

The new five-inch TFT display is larger than the previous model and provides the rider with a rich, full-color experience along with the option of four different themes to suit specific riding situations or individual preference. The screen is navigated through all-new integrated handlebar switches. Button shape and feel have been extensively refined to provide intuitive operation in a compact, easy-to-use solution.

Smartphone Connectivity & Navigation

Connectivity now comes standard on the MT-09 via a built-in Communication Control Unit (CCU), meaning riders can stay connected while riding by linking their smartphone to the motorcycle using Yamaha’s free Y-Connect app. As well as receiving call and message notifications on the TFT display, a new dimension is added to the ride with the option of taking calls or listening to music through use of an aftermarket Bluetooth headset (not provided). Additionally, full turn-by-turn navigation is available through the Garmin® StreetCross app to make each journey easier. Finally, riders can opt to personalize the TFT display by sending images from their smartphone via the Y-Connect app.

New Customizable YRC Ride Modes

New for 2024, MT-09 riders can further customize their riding experience via Yamaha Ride Control (YRC) settings which allow the selection of engine power characteristics and electronic intervention levels to suit conditions or rider preference. For quick, easy selections, three integrated riding modes are programmed with factory settings to suit different situations: SPORT, STREET and RAIN.  Additionally, riders can create two custom programs with tailored settings to suit exact preferences. YRC settings can be customized either directly within the TFT display menu or on a smartphone via the Y-Connect app.
New Back Slip Regulator

Adding to the MT-09’s advanced electronics suite, capability is further enhanced for 2024 with the addition of a new Back Slip Regulator (BSR), which uses engine RPM and wheel speed data to reduce rear wheel lock up under engine braking by controlling the level of torque produced. This is especially useful in low-grip situations when it is difficult to activate the slipper clutch. The system can also be turned on or off in the YRC settings menu. With its best-in-class electronic control technology, the MT-09 gives you the ultimate control in varying weather and surface conditions.

Acoustic Amplifier Grilles

The distinctive wail of the MT-09’s crossplane Triple powerplant is one of its most defining characteristics. The 2024 MT-09 features a new two-duct intake design with acoustic amplifier grilles located on top of the fuel tank to accentuate high frequency induction sounds, delivering the CP3’s thrilling induction roar directly to the rider for an enhanced sensation of torque and acceleration.

New Brembo Radial Master Cylinder  

Stopping power is enhanced by a new Brembo radial master cylinder where the piston moves in a direction parallel to brake lever travel. This sends hydraulic pressure in a linear manner when the rider pulls the lever, delivering excellent controllability. Paired with large 298mm dual front discs, the MT-09 offers outstanding braking performance with finger-tip control. In addition, a new clutch lever provides multiple adjustments to accommodate different preferences and hand sizes.

Third-Generation Quickshifter

The 2024 MT-09 is equipped with Yamaha’s new third-generation Quick Shift System (QSS), now enabling quick, clutchless upshifts and downshifts under both acceleration and deceleration. QSS has two settings. Setting 1 enables shifting up while accelerating and shifting down when decelerating. Setting 2 expands functionality across a wider range of situations by permitting downshifts while accelerating and upshifts when decelerating. This advanced system makes full-on acceleration more exciting and downshifting faster and smoother with less chassis disruption when changing gears.

Revised Suspension & Latest Generation Tires

Fully adjustable 41mm KYB inverted front forks run with optimized settings to match increased load on front wheel for a more controlled ride. The adjustable KYB rear shock features revised linkage settings for feeling of traction at the rear. New for 2024, higher spring rates and updated damping characteristics are tuned to accommodate a wider range of speeds and to match new standard fitment Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S23 tires.
New Cruise Control & Turn Signal Functions

The new cruise control system can be set when riding approximately 25 mph or more in third gear or higher. After speed is set, it can be increased or decreased in increments of 1 mph with a button push, and can be disengaged by using the cruise cancel button, the cruise off button, brake, clutch, shifting gears or moving the throttle past the fully closed position. Intuitive new turn signal functions further enhance the riding experience. A soft click of the indicator switch will flash the turn signals three times, while a full click will flash continuously. Turn signals will also self-cancel after 15 seconds and once the bike has travelled for more than 500 feet.

Technical Highlights

Sharper, more compact looks including re-designed bi-functional LED headlight, fuel tank and tail section

More engaged ergonomics including separated seat unit and two-position adjustable handlebar and footpegs

Larger five-inch full color TFT display with smartphone connectivity and navigation

Customizable riding experience via Yamaha Ride Control (YRC) settings

Redesigned intake with Acoustic Amplifier Grilles

Latest 890cc, three-cylinder, four-valve DOHC liquid-cooled, CP3 engine

Six-axis IMU with full suite of lean sensitive rider aids

New Back Slip Regulator

High-performance adjustable KYB suspension

Lightweight controlled fill aluminum die-cast frame

Lightweight SpinForged wheels

New third-generation quickshifter

New Brembo radial master cylinder

New cruise control

New self-canceling turn signals

Adjustable brake and clutch levers

New under-seat USB Type C socket

New Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S23 tires

 

Colors, Availability & Price

The new 2024 Yamaha MT-09 will be available in either Team Yamaha Blue, Midnight Cyan or Matte Raven Black, arriving to dealers in March 2024 for $10,599 MSRP.

Learn more about Yamaha’s complete Hyper Naked lineup, as well as other Yamaha products at: www.yamahamotorsports.com.

Find a range of Genuine Yamaha Accessories, apparel and more at: www.yamaha-motor.com/shop.

For more information related to all Yamaha products, visit: www.yamahamotorsports.com.

Follow Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, through your favorite social media site:

#Yamaha #YamahaMotor #YamahaMotorUSA

www.facebook.com/yamahamotorusa

www.instagram.com/yamahamotorusa

www.twitter.com/yamahamotorusa

 

About Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA

Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, (YMUS), is a recognized leader in the outdoor recreation industry. The company’s ever-expanding product offerings include Motorcycles and Scooters, ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles, Snowmobiles, WaveRunner Personal Watercraft, Boats, Outboard Motors, Outdoor Power Equipment, Power Assist Bicycles, Golf Cars, Power Assist Wheelchair Systems, Surface Mount Technology (SMT) and Robotic Machines, Unmanned Helicopters, Accessories, Apparel, Yamalube products, and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of distributors and dealers in the United States.

YMUS has a corporate office in California, two corporate offices in Georgia, facilities in Wisconsin and Alabama, and factory operations in Tennessee and Georgia. Additional U.S.-based subsidiaries include Yamaha Marine Systems Company (YMSC) with divisions Bennett Marine (Florida), Kracor Systems (Wisconsin) and Siren Marine, Inc. (Rhode Island), Skeeter Boats (Texas), with division G3 Boats (Missouri), and Yamaha Precision Propeller (Indiana).

Racer Profile: Torin Collins, From Moto3 To MotoAmerica Supersport, In Texas

Trudy Ulrich
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Racer Profile: Torin Collins, From Moto3 To MotoAmerica Supersport, In Texas

Featured In the October 2023 issue of Roadracing World:

        Four years of racing and training halfway around the globe can take its toll on a racer, especially when the results aren’t coming together. Putting it on the box can change everything. 

        Canadian Torin Collins was racing with some of the best up-and-coming racers in the world in the British Talent Cup, the European Talent Cup, and the FIM JuniorGP World Championship, but fighting to break into the top 15 wasn’t what he wanted from his career…

            “Racer Profile – From Moto3 To MotoAmerica: Torin Collins,” by Michael Gougis

 

            Looking for a new challenge, Torin Collins showed up at the MotoAmerica round at Circuit of The Americas on a Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-R750. In his first race on a Supersport bike, he finished fourth in Race One, less than five seconds off the podium. The next day, he went one better, beating veteran David Anthony and AMA Pro Racing all-time race-win-record holder Josh Hayes to finish third. Read about Collins’ remarkable resurgence—in the latest issue of Roadracing World!

 

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine is available in print and digital formats.

PREVIEW  October 2023 Issue of Roadracing World

Click to SUBSCRIBE NOW ! Or call (909) 654-4779, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday.

—Read the October 2023 issue of Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology with your online subscription. Log in HERE

 

Available at Cycle Gear and other motorcycle retailers.

Visit www.roadracingworld.com daily for breaking news and events.

Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/roadracingworld

Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com @roadracingworld

Follow us on Instagram https://instagram.com @roadracing_world

Click here for Roadracing World sample issue (One sample issue per household, U.S. address only.)

 

Triumph Updates Tiger 900 Line With More Power, Capability, Comfort

David Swarts
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0
Triumph Updates Tiger 900 Line With More Power, Capability, Comfort

TRIUMPH RAISES THE BAR

NEW TIGER 900 RANGE FOR 2024

  • New Tiger 900 range delivers more performance, more capability, more all-day comfort, and more attitude
  • Significant engine upgrade delivering 13% more power, higher peak torque of 66.38 LB-FT and 9% better fuel economy
  • All-new active safety features and new 7” TFT instruments providing more capability
  • New rider seat and damped handlebar mounting system to provide more long-distance comfort

Delivering more power, torque, capability, and comfort, the new Tiger 900 range from Triumph Motorcycles is raising the bar for middleweight adventure bikes in 2024. The new line-up includes the Tiger 900 GT, GT Pro, and Rally Pro, each providing a significant step-up in performance and specification.

The trademark three-cylinder engine of the Tiger 900 has received a major update, including revised engine components, which provide 13% more power than the previous generation, giving 106.5HP of peak power and a higher peak torque of 66.38 LB-FT. The new engine also offers greater tractability lower in the rev range. With its T-plane crank and offset firing intervals, the Tiger 900 maintains its characterful and distinctive performance and sound, as well as achieving enhanced performance throughout the whole rev range and up to 9% better fuel economy.

All-new active safety features provide more capability across the range, including enhanced braking for better control and reduced stopping distances, and a new emergency deceleration warning system, which activates the hazard lights when braking rapidly and automatically deactivates when you pull away.

New marker lights provide a prominent silhouette especially at night and in poor visibility. The new range also features new 7” TFT instruments, with new graphics and menu system and a new USB-C cockpit charger, as well as My Triumph Bluetooth connectivity as standard on all models.

The new rider seat is flatter and roomier, with heated seats on both Pro models, designed specifically to provide more long-distance comfort. There is .78” (20mm) adjustability on the seat height for all models and an accessory heated low rider seat available which reduces the seat height by a further .78” (20mm). This offers GT models with a potential seat height as low as 31.4 (800mm), which combined with the narrow stand over width, improves accessibility.

 

The 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 GT is nearly identical to the 900 GT Pro, but the GT Pro comes with a center stand, electronically adjustable suspension, and more features. Photo courtesy Triumph.
The 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 GT (pictured) is nearly identical to the 900 GT Pro, but the GT Pro comes with a center stand, electronically adjustable suspension, and more features. Photo courtesy Triumph.

 

A new damped handlebar mounting system creates a more comfortable ride, plus the enhanced handlebar position on the Rally Pro, with the bars .59” (15mm) closer, facilitates a more agile ride while sitting or standing.

Bringing even more Tiger attitude, the 2024 range has new bodywork across the beak, cockpit, and side panels in an integrated design that gives each motorcycle an aggressive, adventure focused stance. New contemporary and dynamic paint schemes and graphics complete the look.

A new Akrapovič silencer heads up the comprehensive list of more than 50 accessories, plus customers can choose from four tailored accessory packs, the Performance, Protection, Trekker, and Expedition kits.

 

A 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 GT Pro. Photo courtesy Triumph.
A 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 GT Pro. Photo courtesy Triumph.

 

The new range retains all the Tiger 900’s class-leading specification:

  • Optimized cornering ABS and traction control with IMU
  • Up to six riding modes including Road, Rain, Sport, and Off-Road, plus Rider Configurable for the GT Pro and Rally Pro, and Off-Road Pro for the Rally Pro only
  • Triumph Shift Assist (GT Pro & Rally Pro)
  • Heated grips and seats (GT Pro & Rally Pro)
  • Illuminated switches
  • Tire pressure monitoring system (GT Pro & Rally Pro)
  • Brembo Stylema® Monobloc brakes
  • Model-specific premium specification suspension tuned for maximum road & off-road capability
    • The GT features Marzocchi 1.77” (45mm) USD fully adjustable cartridge forks, rear suspension unit with manually adjustable preload and rebound damping and 7.08” (180mm) fork travel & 6.7” (170mm) rear wheel travel
    • The GT Pro features Marzocchi 1.77” (45mm) USD fully adjustable cartridge forks, rear suspension unit with electronically adjustable preload and rebound damping and 7.08” (180mm) fork travel & 6.7” (170mm) rear wheel travel
    • The Rally Pro benefits from Showa 1.77” (45mm) USD fully adjustable cartridge forks with manual preload, rebound and compression damping and a rear suspension unit with fully adjustable manual preload and rebound damping, 9.45” (240mm) fork travel & 9.05” (230mm) rear wheel travel
  • Lightweight modular frame
  • Adjustable screen & .79” (20mm) adjustable seat height
  • 5.28-gal (20 liter) fuel tank

MORE PERFORMANCE

Unique to Triumph, the T-plane crank engine with its 1,3,2 firing order and distinctive, raspy triple exhaust bark, has been further developed for the new Tiger 900 range.

Engine revisions have resulted in a power increase of 13% taking the Tiger 900 from 93.7HP to an impressive 106.5HP. This has been achieved while gaining more torque and tractability at low RPM. The increased power can be felt throughout the rev-range, with a more muscular mid-range and improved acceleration.

On the road the new Tiger 900 is agile and easy to ride at low speeds, but with plenty of performance for rapid bursts of acceleration and effortless high-speed touring. In more technical off-road situations, the fine throttle control is intuitive and confidence-inspiring.

Each model benefits from a specific suspension set-up, designed to meet the needs of the rider for each model.

The GT is fitted with high-quality Marzocchi™ suspension with adjustable compression and rebound damping. With 7.08” (180mm) of fork travel and 6.7” (170mm) of rear wheel travel, the set-up has been tuned specifically for the GT to deliver excellent road handling and long-ride comfort with the capability to tackle off-road terrain.

The GT Pro also uses Marzocchi™ suspension. Fully adjustable forks are matched to an electronically adjustable rear suspension unit. This allows for easy and convenient preload adjustments at the touch of a button to suit riders travelling solo, with a pillion or fully loaded.

 

A 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro. Photo courtesy Triumph.
A 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro. Photo courtesy Triumph.

 

The Rally Pro uses Showa™ suspension, offering riders full adjustability and a generous 9.45” (240mm) front and 9.05” (230mm) rear wheel travel. This high-quality progressive suspension set-up provides capability and versatility on all roads.

Complementing this specific suspension, the road-focused GT and GT Pro have lightweight cast alloy wheels, 19” at the front and 17” at the rear, for the perfect balance between road handling and off-road capability. The Rally Pro uses tubeless spoked wheels with a 21” front for pure off-road performance and features a broad tire choice.

Best in class Brembo Stylema™ brake calipers are fitted to all three new Tiger 900 models, ensuring effective stopping power and a sensitive lever feel that helps to keep braking powerful, smooth, and controlled.

MORE CAPABILITY

The new Tiger 900 for 2024 features new active safety features to improve visibility on the road, including a new emergency deceleration warning system, which activates the hazard lights when braking rapidly and automatically deactivates when you pull away. In addition, new marker lights provide a prominent silhouette especially at night and in poor visibility.

Optimized cornering ABS and Traction Control comes as standard across all three Tiger 900 models. Together with the ride-by-wire throttle, the level of assistance can be altered with four different standard riding modes — Road, Rain, Sport, and Off-Road.

The GT Pro has five modes with the additional Rider Programable mode allowing fine tuning to suit the rider’s preferences and riding style. The Rally Pro has six modes with the extra Off-Road Pro mode disabling ABS and traction control completely to allow the Tiger 900 Rally Pro’s capability to be fully utilized off road.

The new enhanced braking system automatically balances front and rear braking effort, working in harmony with the optimized cornering ABS system, to improve stability under hard braking while significantly reducing stopping distances.

Triumph’s Slip and Assist clutch system is fitted to all three Tiger 900 models, giving light clutch lever action to reduce rider fatigue, especially for congested urban riding conditions and for technical off-road riding. This system also improves rear wheel control under rapid deceleration, assisting with smooth and assured corner entry on a range of surfaces.

The Pro models are also equipped with the Triumph Shift Assist system. This allows clutch-less gear changes both up and down the gearbox for seamless acceleration and super-smooth deceleration.

The My Triumph Connectivity System is now standard on all Tiger 900 models. Music, phone and turn by turn navigation can all be accessed via the new intuitive and easy-to-read 7” TFT display which is bonded to the glass for a crisp, non-reflective image. Heated grips and seats plus a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) are also standard on both Pro models.

MORE ALL-DAY COMFORT

The seat has been redesigned for enhanced long-distance comfort while retaining the ease of movement for the rider to find their perfect ergonomic position. All models feature .78” (20mm) of adjustability, as well as heated seats for both Pro models, for optimum comfort in all weather.

A new damped handlebar mounting system creates a more comfortable ride, while the handlebar position on the Rally Pro has been moved back by .6” (15mm). This slight reduction in reach improves seated comfort while also improving rider control and bike agility in the standing position when riding off-road.

Even the shape of the 5.28-gal (20-liter) fuel tank has been carefully considered to provide the perfect seated riding position without compromising control when standing. An adjustable screen with five settings spanning 1.96” (50mm), ensures all riders can enjoy excellent high-speed wind protection.

MORE ATTITUDE

The aggressive Tiger styling and distinctive adventure-focused stance has been revised and sharpened. The new bodywork now has a cleaner, more integrated design that flows beautifully from the beak, through the cockpit and into the side panels.

Three striking new paint schemes and graphics are available for each model. The GT and GT Pro are available in Snowdonia White as standard, with two premium paint options, Graphite and Sapphire Black, and Carnival Red and Sapphire Black. The Rally Pro is available in Carbon Black and Sapphire Black, with the option to upgrade to the striking Ash Grey and Intense Orange or Matte Khaki Green and Matte Phantom Black.

ACCESSORIES

Over 50 accessories and four accessory kits are available for the new Tiger 900 range.  The fully loaded Performance accessory pack includes a brand new Akrapovič silencer, the first of several new exhaust systems developed in partnership. With a lightweight titanium design with carbon end caps, the new silencer delivers a 2.2 lb (1kg) weight saving and an even better sound. The pack also includes front and rear scrolling indicators with new marker light feature and billet machined adventure foot pegs.  

The Protection Pack showcases key practical accessories, lower and upper engine bar kits, tank pad, sump guard, fork protectors, radiator guard and for off-road, a headlight guard kit. The Trekker and Expedition packs provide two distinct, tailored luggage options for extended touring or off-road adventures.

ON THE ROAD

Triumph’s Chief Product Officer Steve Sargent said: “The Tiger 900 already has an excellent reputation as an award-winner and rally competitor, enjoying success against production motorcycles as well as purpose-built off-road machines. In fact, the Tiger 900 Rally Pro was used by World Enduro Champion Iván Cervantes, securing champion titles at the Baja Aragón Rally, 1000 Dunas Raid and Bassela Enduro in 2022.

 With such an impressive pedigree, we needed to set ourselves a high target to improve the new Tiger 900. We were focused on raising the game in the middleweight category all over again. As a result, we’ve delivered a significant step-up, with more performance, more capability, more all-day comfort, and an aggressive style and poise.”

USA Pricing:

Tiger 900 GT from $14,995 USD

Tiger 900 GT Pro from $16,895 USD

Tiger 900 Rally Pro from $17,395 USD

 

Canadian Pricing:

Tiger 900 GT from $16,995 CAD

Tiger 900 GT Pro from $19,295 CAD

Tiger 900 Rally Pro from $20,195 CAD

Orders can be placed now at Triumph dealers, with bikes available from early 2024.

 

SPECIFICATIONS

ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION

  Tiger 900 GT Tiger 900 GT Pro  Tiger 900 Rally Pro
Type Liquid Cooled, 12 valve, DOHC, inline 3-cylinder
Capacity 888 cc
Bore 3.07” (78.0 mm)
Stroke 2.43” (61.9 mm)
Compression 13.0:1
Maximum power 106.5 HP (108 PS)
(79.5 kW) @ 9,500 rpm
Maximum torque 66.38 Lb-Ft (90 Nm) @ 6,850 rpm
Fuel system Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection with electronic throttle control
Exhaust Stainless steel 3 into 1 header system, side mounted stainless steel silencer
Final drive O-ring Chain
Clutch Wet, multi-plate, slip and assist
Gearbox 6 speed

 

CHASSIS

  Tiger 900 GT Tiger 900 GT Pro  Tiger 900 Rally Pro
Frame Tubular steel trellis main frame. Fabricated, bolt-on aluminum rear subframe
Swingarm Twin sided cast aluminum swingarm
Front wheel Cast aluminum, 19 x 2.5 in Spoked tubeless, 21 x 2.15 in
Rear wheel Cast aluminum, 17 x 4.25 in Spoked tubeless, 17 x 4.25 in
Front tire Metzeler TouranceTM Next, 100/90-19 Bridgestone Battlax Adventure 90/90-21
Rear tire Metzeler TouranceTM Next, 150/70R17 Bridgestone Battlax Adventure 150/70-R17
Front suspension Marzocchi 1.77” (45mm) upside down forks, manual rebound and compression damping adjustment, 7.08” (180mm travel) Showa 1.77” (45mm) USD forks, manual preload, rebound and compression damping adjustment, 9.45” (240mm) travel
Rear suspension Marzocchi rear suspension unit, manual preload and rebound damping adjustment

6.7” (170mm) wheel travel

 Marzocchi rear suspension unit, electronically adjustable preload and rebound damping

6.7” (170mm) wheel travel

 Showa rear suspension unit, manually adjustable preload and rebound damping

9.05” (230mm) wheel travel
Front brakes Twin 320mm floating discs, Brembo Stylema 4 piston Monobloc calipers. Radial front master cylinder, Optimized Cornering ABS
Rear brakes Single 10.03” (255mm) disc. Single piston sliding caliper. Optimized cornering ABS
Instruments Full-color 7” TFT instrument pack with My Triumph Connectivity System
         

 

DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHTS

  Tiger 900 GT Tiger 900 GT Pro  Tiger 900 Rally Pro
Length 90.74” (2305 mm) 90.74” (2317 mm)
Width (handlebars) 36.61” (930 mm) 36.81” (935 mm)
Height without mirrors Adjustable 55.51” (1410 mm) – 57.48” (1460 mm) Adjustable

57.16” (1452 mm) – 59.13” (1502 mm)
Seat height Adjustable 32.28” (820 mm) – 33.07” (840 mm) Adjustable 33.85” (860 mm) – 34.64 (880 mm)
Wheelbase 61.25 (1556 mm) 61.06 (1551 mm)
Rake 24.6° 24.4°
Trail TBC TBC
Wet weight 482.81 lbs (219 kg)  489.42 lbs (222 kg) 502.65 lbs (228 kg)
Fuel tank capacity 5.28 gal (20 litres)
         

 

FUEL CONSUMPTION AND EMISSIONS

  Tiger 900 GT Tiger 900 GT Pro  Tiger 900 Rally Pro
Fuel Consumption 60.4 mpg (4.7 litres / 100 km)
CO2 Figures 108 g/km
Standard EURO 5+

CO2 emissions and fuel consumption data are measured according to regulation 168/2013/EC. Figures for fuel consumption are derived from specific test conditions and are for comparative purposes only. They may not reflect real driving results.

 

SERVICE

  Tiger 900 GT Tiger 900 GT Pro  Tiger 900 Rally Pro
Service interval 6,000 miles (10,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first

 

WorldSBK: Gardner On Top As Testing Concludes At Jerez

Remy Gardner (87). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Remy Gardner (87). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Day 2 at Jerez test: Gardner dominates, Yamaha’s strong showing, and impressive rides by Bulega & Iannone

On the second day of testing at Jerez, the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship riders faced challenging conditions in the morning but took full advantage of a drier track by midday, allowing for around six hours of crucial testing at the Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto.

Remy Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) continued to dominate the field, setting an impressive lap time of 1’38.448s, leading the pack by 0.278s. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) was second with a remarkable 1’38.726s lap time, coming within two tenths of the all-time lap record, while teammate Alvaro Bautista was in seventh place with a best time of 1’39.962s.

Jonathan Rea (Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK) adapted well to his new Yamaha R1, finishing third. Alex Lowes (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) secured a fourth-place finish, clocking a 1’39.211s lap time while teammate Axel Bassani adapted to his new bike, completing over 120 laps during the test. Meanwhile, Andrea Iannone (Team GoEleven) surprised with fifth place and a lap time of 1’39.335s after completing 70 laps.

 

Scott Redding. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Scott Redding. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

Scott Redding (Bonovo Action BMW) emerged as the fastest BMW rider, taking tenth place, ahead of his teammate Garrett Gerloff. Tarran Mackenzie (PETRONAS MIE Racing Honda Team), Honda’s sole representative at Jerez, completed 39 laps as he continued to adapt to the CBR1000RR-R machine after racing in WorldSSP throughout 2023.

Remy Gardner | GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team

“It’s been a positive test. The pace has been really good over the two days, with the race tyre and obviously today, at the end, we put in two SCQs and did a really great lap time. There was a little bit more I could’ve done. I made a few mistakes on that lap but quite happy with the two days went. It wasn’t a perfect lap, but it wasn’t bad. More than the lap, I’m happy with the improvements we’ve made over the two days with what Yamaha have brought.

“Jonny surprised me with how fast he got on with the bike. That shows the experience he has. I’m really excited to see what Jonny can bring to the table and help develop the bike, and also for me to learn off Jonny. With so much experience, you can always learn something. Really great to have Jonny with Yamaha.”

 

Nicolo Bulega (11). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Nicolo Bulega (11). Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

Nicolo Bulega left a strong impression by claiming the second position with an impressive lap time of 1’38.726s.

 

Alvaro Bautista. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Alvaro Bautista. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

Despite focusing on the 2024 ruleset, Alvaro Bautista managed seventh place with a best time of 1’39.962s.

Alvaro Bautista | Aruba.it Racing – Ducati

“Today, we were focused on the 2024 regulations especially with the weight. We tried many solutions with the weight. Putting some weight on some areas of the bike, also trying inside the engine, and did many tests to understand how the bike’s working. It’s not easy because when the bike’s working well, if you add 7kg, the bike feels different especially in the fast corners. We made some distribution to have more data and we got that data for this winter to try to work and try to see what could be the base for starting 2024.”

 

Jonathan Rea (65). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Jonathan Rea (65). Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

Jonathan Rea continued his adaptation to Yamaha, finishing third with a lap time of 1’39.179s.

 

Alex Lowes. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Alex Lowes. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

Alex Lowes wrapped up the day in fourth place, focusing on a range of adjustments in anticipation of the 2024 season.

 

Andrea Iannone (29). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Andrea Iannone (29). Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

Andrea Iannone delivered a strong fifth place, posting a lap time of 1’39.335s.

 

Tarran Mackenzie. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Tarran Mackenzie. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

Tarran Mackenzie continued his adaptation to the Honda CBR1000RR-R, completing 39 laps and taking the 13th position.

The order from day two at Jerez:
 

1. Remy Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) 1’38.448, 61 laps

2. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team) 1’38.726s, 52 laps

3. Jonathan Rea (Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK) 1’39.179s, 68 laps

4. Alex Lowes (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) 1’39.211s, 68 laps

5. Andrea Iannone (Team GoEleven) 1’39.335s, 69 laps

6. Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Motocorsa Racing) 1’39.807s, 69 laps

7. Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’39.962s, 58 laps

8. Brad Ray (GMT94 Yamaha) 1’40.007s, 59 laps

9. Dominique Aegerter (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) 1’40.103s, 67 laps

10. Scott Redding (Bonovo Action BMW) 1’40.291s, 47 laps

11. Garrett Gerloff (Bonovo Action BMW) 1’40.334s, 66 laps

12. Axel Bassani (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) 1’41.346s, 54 laps

13. Tarran Mackenzie (PETRONAS MIE Racing Honda Team) 1’42.110s, 38 laps

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Aruba.it Racing Ducati:

Convincing test for Bulega who finishes second at Jerez. Bautista (P9) works exclusively on the new 2024 set-up. Intense first days of work for Huertas on the Panigale V2

Two days of private testing at the “Circuito Jerez de la Frontera Angel Nieto” concluded today, bringing a definitive close to the memorable 2023 WorldSBK season for the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team.

The weather was not particularly favorable, allowing Alvaro Bautista and Nicolò Bulega only a few laps on Day 1, moreover on a track in less than optimal conditions due to some very wet patches. The same scenario unfolded on Day-2, during which the two reigning World Champions of WorldSBK and WorldSSP, entered the track only at the beginning of the afternoon session.

It was, however, a very intense four hours of testing. Nicolò Bulega got familiar with the Panigale V4R that he will use in the 2024 season, even setting the second fastest time of the day (1.38.726).

Alvaro Bautista, on the other hand, started work on the set-up he will have to adopt in the 2024 season after the introduction of the new weight balance regulation. The Spanish rider finished with a time of 1’39.962, without attempting the time attack.

His season, however, does not end here. Bautista, in fact, will be flying to Malaysia next week, for the MotoGP Wild Card aboard the Ducati Desmosedici GP of the Aruba.it Racing team.

Nicolò Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #11)

“I’m happy even though we weren’t able to complete not so many because of the track conditions. Even today we only did half a day but I still managed to be fast despite it was the first real test with my new team. There is still a lot of work to do but the fact that we are fast even though we are not yet at 100% of our potential gives me a lot of confidence”.

Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #1)

“We have done a lot of work on the new weight balance and it is clear that there is a lot of work to do in the future before the start of next season. The positive thing is that we gathered a lot of data this afternoon so we can find effective solutions this winter. Now we go to Malaysia for the MotoGP Wild Card with the aim of having as much fun as we have had this season in WorldSBK.”

WorldSSP

For Andrian Huertas it was the absolute debut on the Ducati Panigale V2 of the Aruba.it Racing WSSP. For the Spanish rider 77 laps completed today with the best time of 1’42.470.

Adrian Huertas (Aruba.it Racing WSSP #99)

“I am very happy with these two days. The team’s welcome was fantastic. I felt immediately at ease like in a big family. And of course, I am very satisfied with the feeling with the Panigale V2. Unfortunately, I wasn’t 100% today because of a slight flu but that didn’t stop me from completing a lot of laps and gaining confidence ahead of the next tests. Once again I would like to thank the team for these first few days of work, which have been really positive”.

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Kawasaki:

First New Look KRT Winter Test Complete

The first winter test in preparation for the 2024 WorldSBK Championship took place between 31 October to 1 November, at the Circuito de Jerez in Spain, with the refreshed KRT line-up of Alex Lowes and Axel Bassani taking to the track for the first time together.

The test provided some changeable track conditions but the riders made the best of the better weather to get used to the their latest spec Ninja ZX-10RR machines, at the circuit that very recently hosted the final races of the 2023 season.

Due to the track conditions changing over the two day test, which was also attended by many of KRT’s rivals in 2024, the most useable track time was weighted towards the final afternoon, on Wednesday 1 November.

Lowes would go on to set a best laptime of 1’39.211, while new signing for 2024, Axel Bassani eased himself into his new role with a 1’41. 346 as he started to learn the finer points of his new machine.

Alex rode despite suffering a crash in the Superpole Race at the Jerez round a few days ago. He had to have stitches on his face at that time and was still feeling the affects of the abrasions and cuts from a rival’s rear tyre that ripped his helmet visor off as he fell.

Bassani’s first experience of the Ninja ZX-10RR was very positive, even if it is a very different configuration of machine compared to what he has been used to riding for his past few years in WorldSBK. Axel set 54 laps on the final day of this test.

This was also the first on-track opportunity for KRT to unveil its striking and distinctive winter test livery, a tradition which stretches back many seasons.

The next chance for the team to get on track will be between 12-13 November, at Motorland Aragon.

Alex Lowes, stated: “I was really happy to get the 70 laps that we put in today. It seems like we had to wait ages for the track to dry but we had some important things to try on the bike in order to to get our first feelings about 2024. With Axel just joining the team the only person who can compare the new items to the previous ones at this test is me. I didn’t feel in my best shape after the race weekend, because of my face and my eyes, but on the bike I enjoyed riding. I also enjoyed the new environment working with Pere as my crew chief. We have a really good idea of what to improve, both from me and the bike. This was a very positive first proper day together.”

Axel Bassani, stated: “The bike is completely different so we have to learn everything. Lap-by-lap I started to feel good with the bike and these are only the first two days. It is like one day because on the first day we didn’t run in the afternoon, and also this morning. But, step-by-step, we are trying to learn and to be even better. The bike is completely different and when something is new you have to take time to understand and when you are ready you can push. The only answer to what I need is time. There are a lot of people with a lot of experience in this team so it is nice to be part of it. It’s a special team for me.”

Pere Riba, Crew Chief for Alex Lowes, stated: “We finished the test with Alex and some new crew members. It has been quite smooth and positive. It is the first time I have worked with Alex in the pit box, and there is a lot to learn, but it has been very positive. Alex has a very, very good attitude and already we have been testing something for Showa and some things for the future, with a good result. Alex had very good speed during the race weekend he has shown good speed here. He was in good shape even after his big crash. For the first day, the experience together was positive. All the crew worked together very well. I am happy to leave from Jerez with a good feeling and Alex seems to have a nice smile on his face, and this is the most important thing.”

Marcel Duinker, Crew Chief for Axel Bassani, stated: “Over these two days we made around 60 flying laps in all. Axel has done a very good job and it is very pleasant to work with him. I am sure with his previous experience of WorldSBK he can help us to make a step forward. How he was riding the bike and how he explained the sensations from the bike – and the way he is putting his finger on the areas where we need to improve was impressive. Many people used soft compound tyres, but we did not. We were focusing on improving our base set-up with a harder race tyre. That is why many people made big jumps in their lap times today but that was not our target. Our target was to let Axel understand the bike. I am very optimistic and he is a really, really nice guy to work with. It was a very good start and everybody enjoyed it. ”

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Yamaha:

Jonathan Rea Enjoys First R1 Test with Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK

The “JR” #65 Yamaha R1 WorldSBK made its debut at the hands of six-time FIM Superbike World Champion Jonathan Rea for Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK yesterday morning, beginning a two-day test and a new chapter for both team and rider at Circuito de Jerez – Ángel Nieto.

While inclement weather on Tuesday meant just seven full timed laps were completed (12 in total), today was a chance for the Northern Irishman to really engage with his new R1 and the team as early winter Spanish sunshine allowed more track time.

Completing 68 laps after an early lunch, Rea took the third-fastest spot on his final lap just before the end of the test – with fellow Yamaha rider Remy Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha) making the fastest lap with a 1:38.448, which would have seen him take pole position last weekend.

The next chance to get further acquainted with his new R1 WorldSBK for Rea will be on 20-21 November back here at Jerez, alongside teammate Andrea Locatelli – with a key focus on 2024 development with Yamaha’s engineers.

 

Jonathan Rea – 1:39.179

“My first feelings with this team have been fantastic, ever since I agreed to make the move. Both the team and Yamaha have been really welcoming and making everything easy. The first test was just about getting familiar with the bike – it was a bit of a shock, I had a lot of different sensations than I am used to – but in a positive way! The R1 is very user-friendly – not necessarily easy to go to the absolute limit just yet, but easy to ride. It generates a lot of traction which encourages you to go fast and inspires confidence. You can get into the throttle and use the power of the machine – it feels good and now I can see how Toprak was riding the way he was, also Loka being so competitive this year. It’s all good! Just a nice first contact with the set-up and the team, so I expect next time we can get more deeply into it. Step-by-step today we have tried some different things, fork spec, different tyre combinations so that I can understand how the Yamaha uses different compounds – I could see from the past that Yamaha have been able to maximise the SCX tyre. I requested some different electronics set-up – but not really too much. I have been using the current “base setting” let’s say of the R1 and in the next test we will start to work on development parts. A really positive experience on both days and the R1 is feeling more like my bike, particularly as we have been lucky with the weather this afternoon and got through more than we expected. I’m sure I could wake up tomorrow and even more performance would come but now I have to wait a couple of weeks…! Thanks to everybody – I really enjoyed myself!”

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Team Go Eleven:

EIGHT TENTHS FROM THE TOP, ASTONISHING PERFORMANCE AT THE END OF DAY-2!
 

No one questioned that Andrea was a talent; but it was almost impossible to expect that, after 4 years without riding a racing bike, five years after his last race in Jerez de la Frontera, he finished the first pre-season tests around eight tenths from the first of the day.

Today, finally a complete day of test, thanks to the warm sun of Southern Spain, The Maniac was able to start working on the bike, testing all types of tyres, both in hot asphalt conditions and with the fresh wind towards the evening. The work on fine-tuning the electronics and the comparison with the other riders was also important, a fact which allowed the number 29 to lower the references session after session, improving mainly in the second part of the track. He did the low 40 pace several times, then in the last hour he opted to use the SCQ. Usually, it is not easy to exploit this particular tyre with extra-grip at the first attempt, 1.39.335, almost eight tenths improved, ending in fifth place.

Despite the tiredness and arm pumps, due to little training on this type of very physical motorbike, the laptime obtained surprised most of the paddock staff, almost exceeding all expectations. There is still a lot of work to do, especially on the race pace, but the smile that Andrea showed at the end of the day fills the hearts of the whole team. He has his head down and a lot of work, with the aim of further sewing the bike together in view of the next tests, at the end of January!

Andrea Iannone (Rider): “Today was certainly a positive day because we managed to lap much more than yesterday, this allowed us to better understand the bike and the tyres which performed very well. The approach on the Panigale was a shock for me lightning fast. It’s a bike that has very high power, and today my arms suffered a little from this. I thank Ducati and the Go Eleven team for all the effort they put into this test. It has been crucial our positive mood to face this tests.”
 

Denis Sacchetti (Team Manager): “Today Andrea sent a strong message, the desire to come back racing is very high and has left everyone, including ourselves, speechless! I am happy not for the laptime, but for the approach he had, his working method and the smile he showed today when he got off the bike. That smile counts more than all the data a monitor can show us!”

More On Suzuki’s Hayabusa Homecoming On November 11

A 2023-model Suzuki Hayabusa. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
A 2024 25th Anniversary Suzuki Hayabusa. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.

Suzuki Motor USA invites Suzuki owners to join the Hayabusa Homecoming, a commemoration of the 25th Anniversary of the legendary Suzuki Hayabusa during the In-N-Out Burger Finals at the NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series. Happening November 11th at one of the birthplaces of professional drag racing; In-N-Out Burger Dragstrip, Pomona, CA. Free entry for the first 200 registered Suzuki owners, plus many planned events.

For more information and to register for the event, click here: https://suzukicycles.com/racing/hayabusa-homecoming

#Suzuki #SuzukiCycles #Hayabusa

Video: New Jersey Motorsports Park Repaving Project Is Progressing

The repaving of New Jersey Motorsports Park's Thunderbolt Raceway is continuing. Photo courtesy NJMP.
The repaving of New Jersey Motorsports Park's Thunderbolt Raceway is continuing. Photo courtesy NJMP.

Happening Now at New Jersey Motorsports Park

Phase 1 of the Thunderbolt Raceway Track Repave Project

Repaving Project Underway at the Classic Road-Racing Circuit

Check Out The Latest Updates!

Phase 1 of the two-phase multi-year project continues at the construction team finishes the base paving. As the base cures, the contractor will continue to verify grades, conduct smoothness riding tests and proof rolling. The goal is to assure perfection in the base layer.

Next, they will begin clearing the trees behind Turn 1 and work on expanding the gravel pit beginning at Turn 1.

Still to come is the laying of the track surface and chicanes over the base surface and 2” on pit lane. This is the critical step! After curing, there will be another round and smoothness and density testing.

Portions of the curbing will be removed and renovated. The profile of Turn 1 will be altered slightly with the apex curbing placed further inside, taking advantage of the unused space and pavement at that point of the turn.

The asphalt and concrete work will be completed by Thanksgiving. The new track base and surface will be allowed to cure from December through February.

The final touches and line painting will be done late in February, and Thunderbolt will reopen for normal business operations in early March, 2024.

Phase 2 – the addition of two new alternative course configurations inside the classic Thunderbolt circuit – has been rescheduled for after the 2024 season.

 

Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course Has Been Repaved

Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course was repaved by Kokosing Construction Company in October. Photo courtesy Kokosing/Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course.
Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course was repaved by Kokosing Construction Company in October. Photo courtesy Kokosing/Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course.

Full repave of racing surface completed at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course

Planning for comprehensive project began in 2022

LEXINGTON, Ohio – A full repave project of the entire racing surface at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course was completed last week, officials from Green Savoree Racing Promotions, which owns and operates the track, announced [October 31]. Ohio-based Kokosing Construction Company, Inc. began initial repair work the week of October 16th, followed by milling the existing track surface on Monday, October 23 and completing the paving of the final asphalt surface layer on Friday, October 27. 

The project was a collaborative effort using the expert services of Kokosing Construction Company, Inc., Kokosing Materials, Inc. and Advanced Materials Services, LLC. Planning and thorough research for the repaving began in 2022 with a test layer placed in Turn 1 for performance evaluation of a racetrack-specific asphalt mixture during the 2023 racing season. The Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course racing surface was last repaved starting fall 2005 and completed in spring 2006.

“We were blessed with outstanding weather last week for the crews to complete this major project in a relatively short amount of time,” said Kevin Savoree, co-owner, president and chief operating officer of Green Savoree Racing Promotions. “It was a tremendous accomplishment and collaboration between Kokosing Construction, Kokosing Materials, Advanced Materials Services and our own track operations team to make it happen. We look forward to getting race cars on it for the first time next spring!”

Last week’s work utilized approximately 100 people, 5,000 manpower hours, 15 trucks to remove approximately 6,000 tons (300 truckloads) of old track material and 30 trucks to haul in 6,000 tons of the new asphalt mixture onto the property. The project encompassed 11,550 feet of surface paving, 3,500 feet of various turn reinforcement, 500 feet of full depth repair in the Keyhole and Turn 12 areas and 300 feet of transverse joint repair.

After milling the racing surface, the second step of the process for Kokosing featured asphalt repairs and reinforcement of high stress areas which required additional milling depth. For the final stage, two pavers placed the asphalt surface layer at 40-foot width around the entire circuit, working in echelon (side-by-side pattern) to avoid a centerline joint throughout the track’s 2.258-mile, 13-turn or 2.4-mile, 15-turn layout. The old, milled track material is being recycled and regraded to create additional paddock and parking surface areas on the Mid-Ohio property. 

“Plans for the 2023 project started in 2022, immediately after completing the resurfacing of Turn 1,” said Bart Moody, vice president of asphalt estimating and engineering at Kokosing Construction Company, Inc. “Logistical challenges had to be overcome to produce the mix and perform the work with limited time and access. A full-time truck coordinator was in constant communication with material trucks to ensure they entered and exited the track at the correct locations as work progressed. Crews worked extended hours in order to maintain the schedule that made use of unseasonably warm weather for October in Ohio.”

Aggregates were sourced locally in Ohio from Olen Corporation’s Upper Sandusky and Fredericktown plants. Durable aggregates were selected to withstand the loading applied to the track, and a highly polymerized asphalt binder was produced by Kokosing Materials, Inc. to withstand the high temperatures and stresses. The asphalt mixture used was tested at the Kokosing Materials Asphalt Plant and at the track for a variety of properties such as asphalt content, gradation and density. 

“The stresses on a racetrack, especially road courses with tight turns, are much higher than those typically seen on conventional asphalt pavements,” said Graham Hurley, project engineer at Advanced Materials Services, LLC. “The much stiffer PG 88-22 asphalt binder used counteracts the shear stresses imparted on the track surface by race cars, which prevents any ravelling that may occur. Additionally, the specifications used for this project were much tighter than a traditional highway specification. The target minimum softening temperature for asphalt binder and the target in-place density values were both set higher than conventional specifications for vehicular traffic. Kokosing successfully met these higher conditions with ease.”

The new track surface will be allowed to cure for over five months in advance of the 2024 season. The road course annually hosts a variety of locally, regionally and nationally sanctioned race events as well the driving and riding courses provided by The Mid-Ohio School. 

The full schedule and ticket information for the 2024 major spectator events featuring IMSA, SVRA’s SpeedTour, NTT INDYCAR SERIES, American Motorcyclist Association and MotoAmerica will be announced at a later date. Children 12 and under receive free general admission when accompanied by a ticketed adult at all Mid-Ohio events. Visit midohio.com for more information, and follow its Facebook page @MidOhioSportsCarCourse, Twitter at @Mid_Ohio or Instagram at @officialmidohio for the latest news. 

About Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course:

A comprehensive motorsports facility in Lexington, Ohio, Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course sits on 380 acres and features a permanent road-racing circuit with two primary race track configurations: 2.4-mile, 15-turn or 2.258-mile, 13-turn layout. Located 60 miles north of Columbus and 75 miles south of Cleveland near Mansfield, the natural terrain road course is commonly referred to as the “Most Competitive in the U.S.” and annually hosts a diversity of locally, regionally and nationally-sanctioned race events for amateur, club and professional drivers and riders. It is also home to The Mid-Ohio School, featuring over 20 driving and riding courses, for teenagers to professional racers using Honda vehicles. Opened in 1962, Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course has been owned and operated by Green Savoree Mid-Ohio, LLC since 2011, just the raceway’s third private ownership group in its history.

For more information, visit midohio.com, ‘like’ its Facebook page @MidOhioSportsCarCourse or follow updates on Twitter @Mid_Ohio and Instagram @officialmidohio.

About Kokosing:

Kokosing is one of the largest family-owned construction companies in the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic. Known for unwavering integrity and exceptional safety and quality, Kokosing companies provide extensive resources for their customers. Kokosing’s primary business lines include industrial, transportation, pipelines, water and wastewater, marine and renewable energy. Additionally, aggregates and asphalt material suppliers are part of the Kokosing family of companies.

About Advanced Materials Services LLC:

Founded in 2007 and located in Auburn, Alabama, Advanced Materials Services, LLC provides pavement engineering, testing, and consulting services. AMS supports all aspects of flexible pavement design, testing, and construction inspection, particularly for specialty pavements, such as airfields, automotive proving grounds, intermodal facilities, and racetracks. AMS staff have over 60 years of cumulative experience in the development of asphalt specifications, asphalt mixture design, quality assurance support, materials research, and geotechnical engineering. To date, AMS has provided support to over 35 racetracks across the country.
 

WorldSBK: Gardner Quickest On Day One Of Post-Season Testing At Jerez

Remy Gardner (87). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Remy Gardner (87). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Jerez hosts first WorldSBK off-season test, Gardner fastest on Day 1

On a day marked by challenging weather conditions at Jerez, the first off-season test saw a mix of achievements and setbacks among top riders. Remy Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) emerged as the standout performer, setting the pace with an impressive 1’39.837s, despite limited track time due to rain. Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Motocorsa Racing) secured the second spot with a lap time of 1’40.034s.

Meanwhile, Jonathan Rea (Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK) made his debut with Yamaha, securing the fourth position. Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) faced a more challenging day, experiencing a crash at Turn 13, but he managed to set a lap time of 1’40.564s, placing him in fifth. His new teammate, 2023 WorldSSP Champion Nicolo Bulega, finished eighth, focusing on adapting his riding style and bike setup.

Andrea Iannone (Team GoEleven) marked his return to racing bikes with 26 laps and a lap time of 1’41.922s, while Axel Bassani (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) made his first appearance with the KRT team, finishing ninth with a lap time of 1’41.333s. Garrett Gerloff (Bonovo Action BMW) was the lead rider for BMW, posting a lap time of 1’41.193s, while Scott Redding made his debut with the Independent BMW outfit.

 

Jonathan Rea (65). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Jonathan Rea (65). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Jonathan Rea marked his first appearance with the Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK team, achieving a fourth-place finish.

Jonathan Rea | Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK

“It was fantastic to get the first laps on the R1 because you always have anticipation and maybe a preconception of how the bike’s going to be. I’ve been super excited until this morning, and then I got really nervous all of a sudden. I was thinking ‘can I be fast with the bike?’ or ‘what’s it going to feel like sitting on the bike during the bike fit?’. I got comfortable but the position felt strange, and I couldn’t imagine riding the bike. As soon as I exited pitlane, there were a lot of positives straight away I could take. We did three outings. The weather has been far from perfect. Even this morning, at a lot of corners, it was full of wet patches. Just before lunch, we got a lot of drizzle and then the track got soaked. We considered keeping the bike nice and dry for tomorrow and keeping with the test plan. Hopefully the track can dry out tonight, maybe it’ll be a late start tomorrow, but it’s also important to ride in the wet.”

 

Michael Rinaldi (21). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Michael Rinaldi (21). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Michael Ruben Rinaldi secured the second spot with a lap time of 1’40.034s on his Motocorsa Racing debut.

 

Alvaro Bautista (1). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Alvaro Bautista (1). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Despite a crash at Turn 13, Alvaro Bautista managed to secure fifth place in the timesheets.

 

Nicolo Bulega. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Nicolo Bulega. Photo courtesy Dorna.

Nicolo Bulega finished in eighth position, lapping around seven tenths slower than his experienced new teammate Bautista.

 

Andrea Iannone (29). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Andrea Iannone (29). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Andrea Iannone completed 26 laps and set a lap time of 1’41.922s, as he focused on rediscovering the feeling with the bike.

 

Axel Bassani (left) with his Crew Chief Marcel Duinker (right). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Axel Bassani (left) with his Crew Chief Marcel Duinker (right). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Axel Bassani made his first appearance with the Kawasaki Racing Team, securing a tenth place finish.

California Superbike School Releases Its 2024 Schedule

A California Superbike School instructor (9) leading a student (10) on track. Photo courtesy California Superbike School.
A California Superbike School instructor (9) leading a student (10) on track. Photo courtesy California Superbike School.

Our 2024 schedule is live!

We are also getting a new fleet of 2024 BMW S1000RR’s.

A few comments about the tracks:

-Thunderbolt in New Jersey is getting repaved right now.

-Sonoma Raceway also reported they are repaving in January.

-PittRace is on almost everyone’s short list of favorite tracks.

-Barber filled quickly last year so if you’re interested, don’t wait too long.

-The Ridge in Washington State has us there 6 days straight in July.

-Vegas is a great cold season track to visit; the weather is typically mild the dates we attend.

-Willow Springs after its repave still charms with its smooth flowing layout.

Call the office at 800-530-3350 or go online to lock in your spots for the 2024 season.

We will see you at the track!

See our Schedule

Click here to sign up for a class

Call us toll-free (800) 530-3350 to check availability

Intro: 2024 Kawasaki ZX-6R Makes Cleaner Old-School Power

This is Sam Fleming’s fourth ZX-6R launch spread across 20 years. It is the first one he’s done where you can see the headlights reflecting off the darkening track.
This is Sam Fleming’s fourth ZX-6R launch spread across 20 years. It is the first one he’s done where you can see the headlights reflecting off the darkening track.

Featured In the October 2023 issue of Roadracing World:

        Big changes can occur so slowly that it is tough to look backwards and find the inflection point. There was a blessed time when sportbikes ruled the streets. The ethos of ‘win on Sunday, sell on Monday’ fueled rapid technological progress and, more importantly, contingency money to help fuel road racing. 

        Every Japanese factory had, at least, a 600cc and an open-class bike. A few had 400cc 4-cylinder bikes and, perhaps the most perfect sporting displacement, the 750cc. Eventually the trends of demographics, economics, regulations (government and racing), and tastes began to evaporate this sea of choices. 

        A decade ago no one had a Tarot card that said the European brands were going to dominate Moto GP and that there wouldn’t be a 600cc racing class in the U.S. national series—but here we are…

            “Intro: 2024 Kawasaki ZX-6R: Cleaner Old-School Power,” by Sam Fleming

 

            While some other factories seem to have thrown in the towel on street-legal, fast middleweights, Kawasaki shaved a hair off the cams, moved power a little lower in the rpm range, and slid the ZX-6R through Euro5 emissions to be one of the last, street-legal middleweight four-cylinder sportbikes. Read Sam Fleming’s impressions in the latest issue of Roadracing World!

 

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine is available in print and digital formats.

PREVIEW  October 2023 Issue of Roadracing World

Click to SUBSCRIBE NOW ! Or call (909) 654-4779, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday.

—Read the October 2023 issue of Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology with your online subscription. Log in HERE

 

Available at Cycle Gear and other motorcycle retailers.

Visit www.roadracingworld.com daily for breaking news and events.

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Click here for Roadracing World sample issue (One sample issue per household, U.S. address only.)

Yamaha Adds Technology Features To Restyled 2024 MT-09

A 2024 Yamaha MT-09. Photo courtesy Yamaha.
A 2024 Yamaha MT-09. Photo courtesy Yamaha.

Yamaha Unleashes Next Generation MT-09

Sharper, Purer, More Refined
 

MARIETTA, Ga. – October 31, 2023 – Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA is excited to announce the evolution of its class leading Hyper Naked middleweight, the all-new 2024 Yamaha MT-09. With its bold styling update, more engaged riding position, and enhanced technological and convenience features, its clearly aimed at raising the bar for Hyper Naked performance once again.

2024 Yamaha MT-09

Originally deemed the FZ-09 in the United States, the first MT-09 broke cover in 2013, just one year after the now legendary triple-cylinder CP3 engine was first displayed as a prototype, suspended in an intricate wire frame at the Cologne Motorcycle Show. Over the years, the MT-09 has evolved into one of the most significant and successful models in the Yamaha range, earning its iconic status in Yamaha’s history. As the original Hyper Naked born out of the Dark Side of Japan design concept, the MT-09 has always been the purest of all MT models, with its dark and mysterious aesthetic and raw, thrilling performance leaving a lasting impression on motorcycle enthusiasts around the globe.

A Decade of the Dark Side of Japan

The introduction of the MT-09 marked a step away from conventional Japanese motorcycle design and introduced a bold, abstract new direction for Yamaha inspired by the unique urban motorcycle sub-culture found on the streets of Japan’s largest cities. Signifying an exciting new era, the MT-09 featured aggressive styling, a chassis designed for light, agile handling and a torque-laden CP3 engine to stimulate the senses. Stripped of unnecessary bodywork, packed neatly into a compact aluminum frame and equipped with Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T), the MT was the perfect blend of high performance, cutting-edge technology and purposeful functionality. The Dark Side of Japan was unleashed upon the world.

The new 2024 MT-09 retains the previous model’s winning formula—mating Yamaha’s world-renowned 890cc DOHC inline Triple engine with a lightweight controlled fill die-cast aluminum frame, well-sorted KYB suspension and class-leading standard electronics package—and adds a long list of new features to further enhance the unique and thrilling MT experience.

A Slimmer, Sharper New Look

The MT-09 marks its 10th anniversary with a comprehensive new design intended to amplify the sense of raw power and stripped-back agility. The styling concept behind the MT-09 has always been that of ‘functional beauty’, eliminating unnecessary features and embodying a ‘less is more’ approach. Every detail has been re-considered to reinforce the MT-09’s aggressive look and offer an even more engaging riding experience.

A new LED headlight, shrouded in a redesigned cover, creates a more unified relationship between the front end, updated fuel tank design and tail section. The bi-functional LED projector now features a compact diameter lens module that is both smaller and thinner than the previous model, but still provides a broad, powerful beam. Transparent twin LED position lights complete the MT-09’s more compact, sharp and aggressive face. This theme is continued at the rear with a newly designed LED taillight with a slimmer look and new color layout, along with LED turn signals.

A new fuel tank design is shaped to promote more freedom of movement. Produced using a press molding manufacturing method, the new steel tank has sharper, more defined lines while still maintaining the distinctively modern street aesthetic that has become synonymous with the MT name. The new tank also sits 30mm lower for a more forward-leaning stance.

More Engaged Ergonomics

Already renowned for its engaging riding experience, ergonomics on the new 2024 MT-09 are further enhanced allowing the rider to feel more at one with the machine. In order to achieve this, handlebar position is now lower and features two customizable settings. Newly designed footrests sit slightly more rearward and are also adjustable. Combined with the lower fuel tank design, riding position is more dedicated and handlebar steering angle is four degrees greater on each side for a tighter turning radius and excellent low-speed maneuverability. Additionally, the new two-part seat design is slimmer for increased freedom of movement and an easier reach to the ground.

Larger Five-Inch TFT Display & Updated Switchgear

The new five-inch TFT display is larger than the previous model and provides the rider with a rich, full-color experience along with the option of four different themes to suit specific riding situations or individual preference. The screen is navigated through all-new integrated handlebar switches. Button shape and feel have been extensively refined to provide intuitive operation in a compact, easy-to-use solution.

Smartphone Connectivity & Navigation

Connectivity now comes standard on the MT-09 via a built-in Communication Control Unit (CCU), meaning riders can stay connected while riding by linking their smartphone to the motorcycle using Yamaha’s free Y-Connect app. As well as receiving call and message notifications on the TFT display, a new dimension is added to the ride with the option of taking calls or listening to music through use of an aftermarket Bluetooth headset (not provided). Additionally, full turn-by-turn navigation is available through the Garmin® StreetCross app to make each journey easier. Finally, riders can opt to personalize the TFT display by sending images from their smartphone via the Y-Connect app.

New Customizable YRC Ride Modes

New for 2024, MT-09 riders can further customize their riding experience via Yamaha Ride Control (YRC) settings which allow the selection of engine power characteristics and electronic intervention levels to suit conditions or rider preference. For quick, easy selections, three integrated riding modes are programmed with factory settings to suit different situations: SPORT, STREET and RAIN.  Additionally, riders can create two custom programs with tailored settings to suit exact preferences. YRC settings can be customized either directly within the TFT display menu or on a smartphone via the Y-Connect app.
New Back Slip Regulator

Adding to the MT-09’s advanced electronics suite, capability is further enhanced for 2024 with the addition of a new Back Slip Regulator (BSR), which uses engine RPM and wheel speed data to reduce rear wheel lock up under engine braking by controlling the level of torque produced. This is especially useful in low-grip situations when it is difficult to activate the slipper clutch. The system can also be turned on or off in the YRC settings menu. With its best-in-class electronic control technology, the MT-09 gives you the ultimate control in varying weather and surface conditions.

Acoustic Amplifier Grilles

The distinctive wail of the MT-09’s crossplane Triple powerplant is one of its most defining characteristics. The 2024 MT-09 features a new two-duct intake design with acoustic amplifier grilles located on top of the fuel tank to accentuate high frequency induction sounds, delivering the CP3’s thrilling induction roar directly to the rider for an enhanced sensation of torque and acceleration.

New Brembo Radial Master Cylinder  

Stopping power is enhanced by a new Brembo radial master cylinder where the piston moves in a direction parallel to brake lever travel. This sends hydraulic pressure in a linear manner when the rider pulls the lever, delivering excellent controllability. Paired with large 298mm dual front discs, the MT-09 offers outstanding braking performance with finger-tip control. In addition, a new clutch lever provides multiple adjustments to accommodate different preferences and hand sizes.

Third-Generation Quickshifter

The 2024 MT-09 is equipped with Yamaha’s new third-generation Quick Shift System (QSS), now enabling quick, clutchless upshifts and downshifts under both acceleration and deceleration. QSS has two settings. Setting 1 enables shifting up while accelerating and shifting down when decelerating. Setting 2 expands functionality across a wider range of situations by permitting downshifts while accelerating and upshifts when decelerating. This advanced system makes full-on acceleration more exciting and downshifting faster and smoother with less chassis disruption when changing gears.

Revised Suspension & Latest Generation Tires

Fully adjustable 41mm KYB inverted front forks run with optimized settings to match increased load on front wheel for a more controlled ride. The adjustable KYB rear shock features revised linkage settings for feeling of traction at the rear. New for 2024, higher spring rates and updated damping characteristics are tuned to accommodate a wider range of speeds and to match new standard fitment Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S23 tires.
New Cruise Control & Turn Signal Functions

The new cruise control system can be set when riding approximately 25 mph or more in third gear or higher. After speed is set, it can be increased or decreased in increments of 1 mph with a button push, and can be disengaged by using the cruise cancel button, the cruise off button, brake, clutch, shifting gears or moving the throttle past the fully closed position. Intuitive new turn signal functions further enhance the riding experience. A soft click of the indicator switch will flash the turn signals three times, while a full click will flash continuously. Turn signals will also self-cancel after 15 seconds and once the bike has travelled for more than 500 feet.

Technical Highlights

Sharper, more compact looks including re-designed bi-functional LED headlight, fuel tank and tail section

More engaged ergonomics including separated seat unit and two-position adjustable handlebar and footpegs

Larger five-inch full color TFT display with smartphone connectivity and navigation

Customizable riding experience via Yamaha Ride Control (YRC) settings

Redesigned intake with Acoustic Amplifier Grilles

Latest 890cc, three-cylinder, four-valve DOHC liquid-cooled, CP3 engine

Six-axis IMU with full suite of lean sensitive rider aids

New Back Slip Regulator

High-performance adjustable KYB suspension

Lightweight controlled fill aluminum die-cast frame

Lightweight SpinForged wheels

New third-generation quickshifter

New Brembo radial master cylinder

New cruise control

New self-canceling turn signals

Adjustable brake and clutch levers

New under-seat USB Type C socket

New Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S23 tires

 

Colors, Availability & Price

The new 2024 Yamaha MT-09 will be available in either Team Yamaha Blue, Midnight Cyan or Matte Raven Black, arriving to dealers in March 2024 for $10,599 MSRP.

Learn more about Yamaha’s complete Hyper Naked lineup, as well as other Yamaha products at: www.yamahamotorsports.com.

Find a range of Genuine Yamaha Accessories, apparel and more at: www.yamaha-motor.com/shop.

For more information related to all Yamaha products, visit: www.yamahamotorsports.com.

Follow Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, through your favorite social media site:

#Yamaha #YamahaMotor #YamahaMotorUSA

www.facebook.com/yamahamotorusa

www.instagram.com/yamahamotorusa

www.twitter.com/yamahamotorusa

 

About Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA

Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, (YMUS), is a recognized leader in the outdoor recreation industry. The company’s ever-expanding product offerings include Motorcycles and Scooters, ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles, Snowmobiles, WaveRunner Personal Watercraft, Boats, Outboard Motors, Outdoor Power Equipment, Power Assist Bicycles, Golf Cars, Power Assist Wheelchair Systems, Surface Mount Technology (SMT) and Robotic Machines, Unmanned Helicopters, Accessories, Apparel, Yamalube products, and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of distributors and dealers in the United States.

YMUS has a corporate office in California, two corporate offices in Georgia, facilities in Wisconsin and Alabama, and factory operations in Tennessee and Georgia. Additional U.S.-based subsidiaries include Yamaha Marine Systems Company (YMSC) with divisions Bennett Marine (Florida), Kracor Systems (Wisconsin) and Siren Marine, Inc. (Rhode Island), Skeeter Boats (Texas), with division G3 Boats (Missouri), and Yamaha Precision Propeller (Indiana).

Racer Profile: Torin Collins, From Moto3 To MotoAmerica Supersport, In Texas

Torin Collins (14) dives past 4-Time AMA Superbike Champion (and race-wins record holder) Josh Hayes (4) on his way to a podium finish in Race Two. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Torin Collins (14) dives past 4-Time AMA Superbike Champion (and race-wins record holder) Josh Hayes (4) on his way to a podium finish in Race Two. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

Featured In the October 2023 issue of Roadracing World:

        Four years of racing and training halfway around the globe can take its toll on a racer, especially when the results aren’t coming together. Putting it on the box can change everything. 

        Canadian Torin Collins was racing with some of the best up-and-coming racers in the world in the British Talent Cup, the European Talent Cup, and the FIM JuniorGP World Championship, but fighting to break into the top 15 wasn’t what he wanted from his career…

            “Racer Profile – From Moto3 To MotoAmerica: Torin Collins,” by Michael Gougis

 

            Looking for a new challenge, Torin Collins showed up at the MotoAmerica round at Circuit of The Americas on a Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-R750. In his first race on a Supersport bike, he finished fourth in Race One, less than five seconds off the podium. The next day, he went one better, beating veteran David Anthony and AMA Pro Racing all-time race-win-record holder Josh Hayes to finish third. Read about Collins’ remarkable resurgence—in the latest issue of Roadracing World!

 

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine is available in print and digital formats.

PREVIEW  October 2023 Issue of Roadracing World

Click to SUBSCRIBE NOW ! Or call (909) 654-4779, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday.

—Read the October 2023 issue of Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology with your online subscription. Log in HERE

 

Available at Cycle Gear and other motorcycle retailers.

Visit www.roadracingworld.com daily for breaking news and events.

Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/roadracingworld

Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com @roadracingworld

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Click here for Roadracing World sample issue (One sample issue per household, U.S. address only.)

 

Triumph Updates Tiger 900 Line With More Power, Capability, Comfort

A 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 GT Pro (left) and Tiger 900 Rally Pro (right). Photo courtesy Triumph.
A 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 GT Pro (left) and Tiger 900 Rally Pro (right). Photo courtesy Triumph.

TRIUMPH RAISES THE BAR

NEW TIGER 900 RANGE FOR 2024

  • New Tiger 900 range delivers more performance, more capability, more all-day comfort, and more attitude
  • Significant engine upgrade delivering 13% more power, higher peak torque of 66.38 LB-FT and 9% better fuel economy
  • All-new active safety features and new 7” TFT instruments providing more capability
  • New rider seat and damped handlebar mounting system to provide more long-distance comfort

Delivering more power, torque, capability, and comfort, the new Tiger 900 range from Triumph Motorcycles is raising the bar for middleweight adventure bikes in 2024. The new line-up includes the Tiger 900 GT, GT Pro, and Rally Pro, each providing a significant step-up in performance and specification.

The trademark three-cylinder engine of the Tiger 900 has received a major update, including revised engine components, which provide 13% more power than the previous generation, giving 106.5HP of peak power and a higher peak torque of 66.38 LB-FT. The new engine also offers greater tractability lower in the rev range. With its T-plane crank and offset firing intervals, the Tiger 900 maintains its characterful and distinctive performance and sound, as well as achieving enhanced performance throughout the whole rev range and up to 9% better fuel economy.

All-new active safety features provide more capability across the range, including enhanced braking for better control and reduced stopping distances, and a new emergency deceleration warning system, which activates the hazard lights when braking rapidly and automatically deactivates when you pull away.

New marker lights provide a prominent silhouette especially at night and in poor visibility. The new range also features new 7” TFT instruments, with new graphics and menu system and a new USB-C cockpit charger, as well as My Triumph Bluetooth connectivity as standard on all models.

The new rider seat is flatter and roomier, with heated seats on both Pro models, designed specifically to provide more long-distance comfort. There is .78” (20mm) adjustability on the seat height for all models and an accessory heated low rider seat available which reduces the seat height by a further .78” (20mm). This offers GT models with a potential seat height as low as 31.4 (800mm), which combined with the narrow stand over width, improves accessibility.

 

The 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 GT is nearly identical to the 900 GT Pro, but the GT Pro comes with a center stand, electronically adjustable suspension, and more features. Photo courtesy Triumph.
The 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 GT (pictured) is nearly identical to the 900 GT Pro, but the GT Pro comes with a center stand, electronically adjustable suspension, and more features. Photo courtesy Triumph.

 

A new damped handlebar mounting system creates a more comfortable ride, plus the enhanced handlebar position on the Rally Pro, with the bars .59” (15mm) closer, facilitates a more agile ride while sitting or standing.

Bringing even more Tiger attitude, the 2024 range has new bodywork across the beak, cockpit, and side panels in an integrated design that gives each motorcycle an aggressive, adventure focused stance. New contemporary and dynamic paint schemes and graphics complete the look.

A new Akrapovič silencer heads up the comprehensive list of more than 50 accessories, plus customers can choose from four tailored accessory packs, the Performance, Protection, Trekker, and Expedition kits.

 

A 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 GT Pro. Photo courtesy Triumph.
A 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 GT Pro. Photo courtesy Triumph.

 

The new range retains all the Tiger 900’s class-leading specification:

  • Optimized cornering ABS and traction control with IMU
  • Up to six riding modes including Road, Rain, Sport, and Off-Road, plus Rider Configurable for the GT Pro and Rally Pro, and Off-Road Pro for the Rally Pro only
  • Triumph Shift Assist (GT Pro & Rally Pro)
  • Heated grips and seats (GT Pro & Rally Pro)
  • Illuminated switches
  • Tire pressure monitoring system (GT Pro & Rally Pro)
  • Brembo Stylema® Monobloc brakes
  • Model-specific premium specification suspension tuned for maximum road & off-road capability
    • The GT features Marzocchi 1.77” (45mm) USD fully adjustable cartridge forks, rear suspension unit with manually adjustable preload and rebound damping and 7.08” (180mm) fork travel & 6.7” (170mm) rear wheel travel
    • The GT Pro features Marzocchi 1.77” (45mm) USD fully adjustable cartridge forks, rear suspension unit with electronically adjustable preload and rebound damping and 7.08” (180mm) fork travel & 6.7” (170mm) rear wheel travel
    • The Rally Pro benefits from Showa 1.77” (45mm) USD fully adjustable cartridge forks with manual preload, rebound and compression damping and a rear suspension unit with fully adjustable manual preload and rebound damping, 9.45” (240mm) fork travel & 9.05” (230mm) rear wheel travel
  • Lightweight modular frame
  • Adjustable screen & .79” (20mm) adjustable seat height
  • 5.28-gal (20 liter) fuel tank

MORE PERFORMANCE

Unique to Triumph, the T-plane crank engine with its 1,3,2 firing order and distinctive, raspy triple exhaust bark, has been further developed for the new Tiger 900 range.

Engine revisions have resulted in a power increase of 13% taking the Tiger 900 from 93.7HP to an impressive 106.5HP. This has been achieved while gaining more torque and tractability at low RPM. The increased power can be felt throughout the rev-range, with a more muscular mid-range and improved acceleration.

On the road the new Tiger 900 is agile and easy to ride at low speeds, but with plenty of performance for rapid bursts of acceleration and effortless high-speed touring. In more technical off-road situations, the fine throttle control is intuitive and confidence-inspiring.

Each model benefits from a specific suspension set-up, designed to meet the needs of the rider for each model.

The GT is fitted with high-quality Marzocchi™ suspension with adjustable compression and rebound damping. With 7.08” (180mm) of fork travel and 6.7” (170mm) of rear wheel travel, the set-up has been tuned specifically for the GT to deliver excellent road handling and long-ride comfort with the capability to tackle off-road terrain.

The GT Pro also uses Marzocchi™ suspension. Fully adjustable forks are matched to an electronically adjustable rear suspension unit. This allows for easy and convenient preload adjustments at the touch of a button to suit riders travelling solo, with a pillion or fully loaded.

 

A 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro. Photo courtesy Triumph.
A 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro. Photo courtesy Triumph.

 

The Rally Pro uses Showa™ suspension, offering riders full adjustability and a generous 9.45” (240mm) front and 9.05” (230mm) rear wheel travel. This high-quality progressive suspension set-up provides capability and versatility on all roads.

Complementing this specific suspension, the road-focused GT and GT Pro have lightweight cast alloy wheels, 19” at the front and 17” at the rear, for the perfect balance between road handling and off-road capability. The Rally Pro uses tubeless spoked wheels with a 21” front for pure off-road performance and features a broad tire choice.

Best in class Brembo Stylema™ brake calipers are fitted to all three new Tiger 900 models, ensuring effective stopping power and a sensitive lever feel that helps to keep braking powerful, smooth, and controlled.

MORE CAPABILITY

The new Tiger 900 for 2024 features new active safety features to improve visibility on the road, including a new emergency deceleration warning system, which activates the hazard lights when braking rapidly and automatically deactivates when you pull away. In addition, new marker lights provide a prominent silhouette especially at night and in poor visibility.

Optimized cornering ABS and Traction Control comes as standard across all three Tiger 900 models. Together with the ride-by-wire throttle, the level of assistance can be altered with four different standard riding modes — Road, Rain, Sport, and Off-Road.

The GT Pro has five modes with the additional Rider Programable mode allowing fine tuning to suit the rider’s preferences and riding style. The Rally Pro has six modes with the extra Off-Road Pro mode disabling ABS and traction control completely to allow the Tiger 900 Rally Pro’s capability to be fully utilized off road.

The new enhanced braking system automatically balances front and rear braking effort, working in harmony with the optimized cornering ABS system, to improve stability under hard braking while significantly reducing stopping distances.

Triumph’s Slip and Assist clutch system is fitted to all three Tiger 900 models, giving light clutch lever action to reduce rider fatigue, especially for congested urban riding conditions and for technical off-road riding. This system also improves rear wheel control under rapid deceleration, assisting with smooth and assured corner entry on a range of surfaces.

The Pro models are also equipped with the Triumph Shift Assist system. This allows clutch-less gear changes both up and down the gearbox for seamless acceleration and super-smooth deceleration.

The My Triumph Connectivity System is now standard on all Tiger 900 models. Music, phone and turn by turn navigation can all be accessed via the new intuitive and easy-to-read 7” TFT display which is bonded to the glass for a crisp, non-reflective image. Heated grips and seats plus a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) are also standard on both Pro models.

MORE ALL-DAY COMFORT

The seat has been redesigned for enhanced long-distance comfort while retaining the ease of movement for the rider to find their perfect ergonomic position. All models feature .78” (20mm) of adjustability, as well as heated seats for both Pro models, for optimum comfort in all weather.

A new damped handlebar mounting system creates a more comfortable ride, while the handlebar position on the Rally Pro has been moved back by .6” (15mm). This slight reduction in reach improves seated comfort while also improving rider control and bike agility in the standing position when riding off-road.

Even the shape of the 5.28-gal (20-liter) fuel tank has been carefully considered to provide the perfect seated riding position without compromising control when standing. An adjustable screen with five settings spanning 1.96” (50mm), ensures all riders can enjoy excellent high-speed wind protection.

MORE ATTITUDE

The aggressive Tiger styling and distinctive adventure-focused stance has been revised and sharpened. The new bodywork now has a cleaner, more integrated design that flows beautifully from the beak, through the cockpit and into the side panels.

Three striking new paint schemes and graphics are available for each model. The GT and GT Pro are available in Snowdonia White as standard, with two premium paint options, Graphite and Sapphire Black, and Carnival Red and Sapphire Black. The Rally Pro is available in Carbon Black and Sapphire Black, with the option to upgrade to the striking Ash Grey and Intense Orange or Matte Khaki Green and Matte Phantom Black.

ACCESSORIES

Over 50 accessories and four accessory kits are available for the new Tiger 900 range.  The fully loaded Performance accessory pack includes a brand new Akrapovič silencer, the first of several new exhaust systems developed in partnership. With a lightweight titanium design with carbon end caps, the new silencer delivers a 2.2 lb (1kg) weight saving and an even better sound. The pack also includes front and rear scrolling indicators with new marker light feature and billet machined adventure foot pegs.  

The Protection Pack showcases key practical accessories, lower and upper engine bar kits, tank pad, sump guard, fork protectors, radiator guard and for off-road, a headlight guard kit. The Trekker and Expedition packs provide two distinct, tailored luggage options for extended touring or off-road adventures.

ON THE ROAD

Triumph’s Chief Product Officer Steve Sargent said: “The Tiger 900 already has an excellent reputation as an award-winner and rally competitor, enjoying success against production motorcycles as well as purpose-built off-road machines. In fact, the Tiger 900 Rally Pro was used by World Enduro Champion Iván Cervantes, securing champion titles at the Baja Aragón Rally, 1000 Dunas Raid and Bassela Enduro in 2022.

 With such an impressive pedigree, we needed to set ourselves a high target to improve the new Tiger 900. We were focused on raising the game in the middleweight category all over again. As a result, we’ve delivered a significant step-up, with more performance, more capability, more all-day comfort, and an aggressive style and poise.”

USA Pricing:

Tiger 900 GT from $14,995 USD

Tiger 900 GT Pro from $16,895 USD

Tiger 900 Rally Pro from $17,395 USD

 

Canadian Pricing:

Tiger 900 GT from $16,995 CAD

Tiger 900 GT Pro from $19,295 CAD

Tiger 900 Rally Pro from $20,195 CAD

Orders can be placed now at Triumph dealers, with bikes available from early 2024.

 

SPECIFICATIONS

ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION

  Tiger 900 GT Tiger 900 GT Pro  Tiger 900 Rally Pro
Type Liquid Cooled, 12 valve, DOHC, inline 3-cylinder
Capacity 888 cc
Bore 3.07” (78.0 mm)
Stroke 2.43” (61.9 mm)
Compression 13.0:1
Maximum power 106.5 HP (108 PS)
(79.5 kW) @ 9,500 rpm
Maximum torque 66.38 Lb-Ft (90 Nm) @ 6,850 rpm
Fuel system Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection with electronic throttle control
Exhaust Stainless steel 3 into 1 header system, side mounted stainless steel silencer
Final drive O-ring Chain
Clutch Wet, multi-plate, slip and assist
Gearbox 6 speed

 

CHASSIS

  Tiger 900 GT Tiger 900 GT Pro  Tiger 900 Rally Pro
Frame Tubular steel trellis main frame. Fabricated, bolt-on aluminum rear subframe
Swingarm Twin sided cast aluminum swingarm
Front wheel Cast aluminum, 19 x 2.5 in Spoked tubeless, 21 x 2.15 in
Rear wheel Cast aluminum, 17 x 4.25 in Spoked tubeless, 17 x 4.25 in
Front tire Metzeler TouranceTM Next, 100/90-19 Bridgestone Battlax Adventure 90/90-21
Rear tire Metzeler TouranceTM Next, 150/70R17 Bridgestone Battlax Adventure 150/70-R17
Front suspension Marzocchi 1.77” (45mm) upside down forks, manual rebound and compression damping adjustment, 7.08” (180mm travel) Showa 1.77” (45mm) USD forks, manual preload, rebound and compression damping adjustment, 9.45” (240mm) travel
Rear suspension Marzocchi rear suspension unit, manual preload and rebound damping adjustment

6.7” (170mm) wheel travel

 Marzocchi rear suspension unit, electronically adjustable preload and rebound damping

6.7” (170mm) wheel travel

 Showa rear suspension unit, manually adjustable preload and rebound damping

9.05” (230mm) wheel travel
Front brakes Twin 320mm floating discs, Brembo Stylema 4 piston Monobloc calipers. Radial front master cylinder, Optimized Cornering ABS
Rear brakes Single 10.03” (255mm) disc. Single piston sliding caliper. Optimized cornering ABS
Instruments Full-color 7” TFT instrument pack with My Triumph Connectivity System
         

 

DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHTS

  Tiger 900 GT Tiger 900 GT Pro  Tiger 900 Rally Pro
Length 90.74” (2305 mm) 90.74” (2317 mm)
Width (handlebars) 36.61” (930 mm) 36.81” (935 mm)
Height without mirrors Adjustable 55.51” (1410 mm) – 57.48” (1460 mm) Adjustable

57.16” (1452 mm) – 59.13” (1502 mm)
Seat height Adjustable 32.28” (820 mm) – 33.07” (840 mm) Adjustable 33.85” (860 mm) – 34.64 (880 mm)
Wheelbase 61.25 (1556 mm) 61.06 (1551 mm)
Rake 24.6° 24.4°
Trail TBC TBC
Wet weight 482.81 lbs (219 kg)  489.42 lbs (222 kg) 502.65 lbs (228 kg)
Fuel tank capacity 5.28 gal (20 litres)
         

 

FUEL CONSUMPTION AND EMISSIONS

  Tiger 900 GT Tiger 900 GT Pro  Tiger 900 Rally Pro
Fuel Consumption 60.4 mpg (4.7 litres / 100 km)
CO2 Figures 108 g/km
Standard EURO 5+

CO2 emissions and fuel consumption data are measured according to regulation 168/2013/EC. Figures for fuel consumption are derived from specific test conditions and are for comparative purposes only. They may not reflect real driving results.

 

SERVICE

  Tiger 900 GT Tiger 900 GT Pro  Tiger 900 Rally Pro
Service interval 6,000 miles (10,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first

 

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