Ducati Adds To E-Bike Range With New Futa Road Bike

David Swarts

-

March 3, 2022

Ducati Adds To E-Bike Range With New Futa Road Bike

Ducati E-Bikes Range is Updated for 2022 and Will Extend into e-Road Segment With New Futa

The Ducati Futa is the first pedal-assisted road bike in the Ducati E-Bikes range: a high-performance e-road for those who want to train, have fun and pedal to their full potential

The All Mountain MIG-S takes an important evolutionary step in 2022 thanks to the more high-performance Shimano EP8 drive unit and updated components

The “Limited Edition” version of the e-enduro TK-01RR is presented with even more sophisticated components to express the full potential of the bike in downhill riding

Borgo Panigale, Bologna, March 3, 2022 – The eighth episode of the Ducati World Première 2022 web series was dedicated by the Bologna-based manufacturer to the presentation of the Ducati powered by Thok E-Bikes family (direct link to the video here).

For the 2022 season, the big news is the Futa: the first Ducati racing bicycle with pedal assistance. The Ducati E-Bikes range is also updated with an evolution of the MIG-S and the presentation of the TK-01RR Limited Edition.

Giorgio Favaretto, Head of Ducati E-Bikes business: “The Ducati E-Bikes project was born in 2019 and immediately set itself the goal of offering pedal-assisted bicycles with which to live unique and memorable experiences. The updates to existing models and the presentation of the new Ducati Futa give a further push in this direction, making up an even more complete and higher-performance range of E-Bikes for 2022. In particular, the inclusion of the Futa allows us to welcome new enthusiasts of this world into our family.”

In 2022 the range expands with the presentation of the new Ducati TK-01RR Limited Edition available now , an even more exclusive version of the Ducati e-enduro with which to tackle off-road challenges. This limited edition is a concentration of technology that confirms the key features of the TK-01RR version, but is enriched with more advanced components, with the aim of further improving performance, especially in difficult downhill sections.

A Ducati TK-01RR Limited Edition e-enduro electric mountain bike. Photo courtesy Ducati.

The Öhlins DH38 dual-plate motorcycle-style air fork (180 mm / 7 inch travel) and the Öhlins TTX spring shock absorber (170 mm / 6.7 inch travel) ensure incredible control of the vehicle downhill, while still maintaining great efficiency on uphill stretches. The 11-speed Shimano Di2 XT rear electronic shifter always provides fast and precise shifting, while the Magura MT7 brakes with 220 mm (8.7 inch) discs at the front and 203 mm (8 inch) at the rear are also of motorcycle derivation and are among the most powerful available on the market.

The differentiated format Crankbrothers Synthesis wheels (29″ front, 27.5″ rear) with variable thickness carbon rims help to further improve riding precision, guaranteeing an excellent weight / strength ratio. The set-up is completed by a Renthal carbon handlebar, a Fizik saddle with a special integrated tool holder, and finally a carbon battery cover and skid plate.

The Ducati MIG-S is an agile, high-performance and fun “All Mountain,” born to tackle any trail and ensure maximum fun in any condition. For 2022, the electric mountain bike is renewed in its aesthetics with a brand-new sporty livery which, as in all models in the range, was designed by Aldo Drudi in collaboration with the Centro Stile Ducati. The MIG-S also takes an important evolutionary step from a technical point of view by welcoming the more high-performance Shimano EP8 engine together with updated components.

A Ducati MIG-S electric mountain bike. Photo courtesy Ducati.

The new Shimano EP8 drive unit represents a benchmark for the category. It is an exceptionally light engine (2.6 kg / 5.7 lb in weight), capable of delivering up to 85 Nm of torque (62.7 lb-ft) with a maximum servo assistance ratio of 400%. In this engine the torque is always delivered with fluidity and naturalness to ensure excellent control of the bicycle. Thanks to the Shimano Etube Project App, it is also possible at any time to adapt the character of the motor to your needs via your smartphone wirelessly, by adjusting maximum torque and assistance timing.

The Ducati MIG-S can explore any path, ensuring excellent handling for the rider. The handling of this e-mtb is made possible by the high-level components it is equipped with.

The new suspensions (RockShox 35 RC fork and RockShox SuperDeluxe shock absorber) are adjustable and have a travel of 150 mm (5.9 inches) at the front and 140 mm (5.5 inches) at the rear, ideal for tackling any type of path in safety. The 12-speed SRAM transmission is even more precise and reliable, while the brakes are the powerful 4-piston SRAM Guide T with 203 mm (8-inch) discs. The 29″ front and 27.5″ THOK e-plus wheels are equipped with Pirelli Scorpion Enduro S tires at the front and Pirelli Scorpion EMTB-S at the rear to offer maximum grip and traction on the most demanding stretches and at higher speeds. The 630Wh Shimano battery is positioned externally, under the downtube, ensuring an extremely low center of gravity and maximizing stability.

The most important Ducati powered by Thok news for the 2022 E-Bikes range is called Ducati Futa. The name derives from the Futa Pass, the road that crosses the Apennines connecting Bologna to Florence, well-known and much-appreciated by many Ducatisti. The Ducati Futa is a performing e-road, for those who want to train, have fun and pedal to their maximum even over long distances and when covering the most demanding climbs. A light e-bike that embodies the Ducati spirit by focusing on design, innovation and fun in a perfect combination of comfort and performance.

A Ducati Futa electric road bike. Photo courtesy Ducati.

The UD carbon fiber monocoque frame features sport endurance geometry, but with technical choices oriented to aerodynamics and speed. The compact seatstays, with lowered liners, makes the E-Bike comfortable, while generating less aerodynamic drag. The rear frame is stiff laterally, precisely by virtue of the choice of liners positioning and favors a better transmission of power to the wheel, as well as increasing the responsiveness of the bike. Downtube, seat post and fork blades are expertly profiled, and their reliefs are highlighted by the play of colors of the livery, which sees grey and black as the main colors with accents in Ducati Red.

The engine, located on the rear hub, is the FSA System HM 1.0 with 250W and 42Nm (31 lb-ft) of torque which boasts a fluid and natural delivery in all conditions and is among the lightest and most compact in its category (3.98 kg / 8.8 lb). This engine is equipped with 5 assistance levels that can be selected via the Garmin control on the handlebar, which allows you to manage the desired level of support. The FSA app, available for iOS and Android devices, allows the rider to view statistics, system status, remaining battery life and charge status quickly and intuitively. Through the app it is also possible to download any software updates and communicate with FSA service centres around the world.

Thanks to its low weight (12.4Kg / 27.3 lb in M size) and to an almost imperceptible engine resistance, exceeding 25Km/h*, the Ducati Futa is always responsive and fast on flat stretches. The standard FSA K-Force WE group set features an exceptionally smooth and fast 2×12-speed wireless electronic shifting, powerful 160 mm (6.3 inch) disc brakes with adjustable UD carbon interchangeable levers and crankset with pedal arms in carbon.

The Vision AGX30 wheels with carbon rims are fitted with 35 mm (1.4 inch) Pirelli Cinturato Velo TLR tires, which guarantee smoothness, comfort and grip, combined with considerable strength. The 250Wh FSA battery is integrated in the downtube and an optional 250Wh range extender is available to cover even longer distances.

The models that make up the new Ducati powered by Thok E-Bikes can be ordered from the Ducati dealer network and viewed online at https://www.ebike.ducati.com/en/dt-home. Pricing for the TK-01RR Limited Edition will begin at an MSRP of $10,995 for the United States and will be available starting in March of 2022. The Futa and MIG-S bikes are planned to be available in the United States starting in Q4 of 2022, with pricing to be announced.

*in the absence of assistance

#DucatiEBikes #ReframingSpeed

What’s Up At The Harley-Davidson Museum In March?

David Swarts

-

March 3, 2022

0

What’s Up At The Harley-Davidson Museum In March?

The Harley-Davidson Museum® campus roars all month long

Kickstart March with the official Mama Tried Pre-Party and keep the throttle open.

MILWAUKEE, USA (March 3, 2022) – It’s time again for Mama Tried, the indoor invitational motorcycle show that connects motorcycles and builders to fans and riders alike. And the Harley-Davidson Museum is doing its part to keep the fire stoked all winter long by hosting the Mama Tried Official Pre-Party, powered by Budweiser® & Bulleit® Bourbon, which will be taking over MOTOR® Bar and Restaurant on Thursday, March 3. The Boonie Bike World Series will light up the track and your favorite Flat Out Friday racers and Mama Tried Motorcycle Show builders will be a part of the fun. Plus, 88.9 Radio Milwaukee’s Marcus Doucette will be spinning the tunes that will have the crowd shaking their money makers.

And faith and begorra, the fun won’t stop when Mama Tried packs it up. Mark your calendars for Thursday, March 17 when the shenanigans reappear at MOTOR® Bar and Restaurant for the St. Patrick’s Day Indoor Bike Night. With live music from the Lil Rev & Will Branch duo, featuring some traditional Irish and Celtic music plus a mix of blues, bluegrass, roots and rock, everyone will be enjoying the luck of the Irish.

Finally, with Lent underway, MOTOR® Bar and Restaurant has you covered when it comes to your fish fry fix. The famous all-you-can-eat fish fry has a new friend on the menu. On Wednesdays and Fridays throughout Lent, the AYCE fry and the Atlantic cod sandwich – complete with Muenster cheese, jicama slaw, and pickles on a brioche bun with tartar sauce – will be off the hook.

MOTOR is also teaming up with Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin for the first ever Friday Fish Fry Challenge, taking place Friday, March 4. See below for more information on how to participate.

Please note the H-D Museum™ campus has resumed seven days a week operation.

PROGRAMMING / EVENTS

Mama Tried Motorcycle Show Official Pre-Party at MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant, March 3, 5 – 9 p.m.

The world’s only Harley-Davidson Museum kicks off the Midwest’s preeminent motorcycle show weekend with the Official Mama Tried Pre-Party, powered by Budweiser® & Bulleit® Bourbon.

The Flat Out Friday Boonie Bike World Series will light up the track outside on Motorcycle Plaza. Rub elbows with Flat Out Friday racers and Mama Tried Motorcycle Show builders inside and outside MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant. Top off the night with music by DJ Marcus Doucette from 88.9 Radio Milwaukee, raffles, outdoor fire pits, Busch Light Bike Night Koozie and Bulleit Cocktail specials all night long. Don’t miss it! Come early and visit the Harley-Davidson Museum from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. H.O.G.® members get in free to the H-D Museum every day. For more information or to purchase H-D Museum™ tickets in advance, visit H-DMuseum.com.

Free Shuttles to Mama Tried Motorcycle Show, March 5, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.

Two shuttles will loop continuously from the H-D Museum, stop at Fuel Café 5th St. and head to The Rave / Eagles Club on Saturday, March 5 from 10 a.m.–6 p.m.

St. Patrick’s Day Indoor Bike Night, March 17, 5–9 p.m.

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant where everyone’s Irish and an Indoor Bike Night fan powered by Budweiser® and Bulleit® Bourbon. Live music by LIL REV & WILL BRANCH duo featuring some traditional Irish music, Celtic music plus a mix of blues, bluegrass, roots and rock from two of the top musicians in the industry. Traditional raffles and festive food & drink specials including Busch Light Bike Night Koozie deal and Bulleit Cocktail specials all night long.

Annual Pass

Looking for interesting things to do and ways to fully enjoy our programs and exhibits? The Harley-Davidson Museum’s new Annual Pass offers individual, family and VIP levels to fit your lifestyle. Just some of the perks of the new Annual Pass include: virtual access to the H-D Museum with various Harley history topics covered in our Virtual Gallery Talk series, admission discounts, free admission for children under age 18, merchandise discounts at The Shop, dining discounts at MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant and more. Visit H-D Museum.com for details and other terms and conditions.

Engineering Merit Badge (Saturdays at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.)

All scouts are welcome to come earn their Engineering Merit Badge at the Harley-Davidson Museum! This experience will be partially facilitated as scouts explore the history of Harley-Davidson as well as the engineering of motorcycles as they complete the nine merit badge requirements. Advance registration is required. Program registration closes one week prior to the scheduled program date. Ticket includes: downloadable activity booklet used for the program, partially facilitated program, blue card signed by the facilitator (one blue card per scout registration) and an exclusive H-D Museum™ patch.

Scout Virtual Engineering Merit Badge (Saturdays at 8:30 a.m. and Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m.)

This new 90-minute online program is open to scouts from all over the country. Our program facilitator will guide the troops and explore the role an engineer plays while creating a Harley-Davidson® Motorcycle. Nine requirements for the Engineering Merit Badge will be discussed during this virtual, interactive program. Advance registration is required. Program Fee: $20 per Scout, which includes an activity booklet used during the program and a special H-D® patch upon completion of the program.

MUST-SEE EXHIBITS AND INSTALLATIONS

Keith Brammer (Die Kreuzen) leather jacket (on display now)

Perhaps no other genre of music is so closely associated with the classic black leather jacket than punk rock. Keith Brammer, of Milwaukee’s hardcore punk band Die Kreuzen, has graciously lent his well-worn leather to the H-D Museum. The jacket was purchased in New York City in the 1980s and was a constant companion for Brammer throughout his touring days. Check out the Custom Culture gallery to view this piece of Milwaukee music history.

Inspiration and Recovery: Wounded Veteran Climbs the Seven Summits (on display now)

In September 2009, Specialist Benjamin Breckheimer, a Cavalry Scout with the U.S. Army 2nd Stryker Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, was severely wounded during a tour in Afghanistan. His rehabilitation was difficult as he endured numerous surgeries. During this same time, the Harley-Davidson Museum regularly sent care packages – including H-D Museum™ flags dotted with well wishes – to active-duty military personnel. Breckheimer took to mountaineering during his recovery and over the summer carried the H-D Museum™ flag to the summit of Denali, the highest point in North America. With that peak reached, Breckheimer became the first and only Purple Heart recipient to reach all the Seven Summits, the highest peaks on each of the seven continents. He continues to climb, and he shares his inspiring story to encourage resiliency and support the mental health of veterans and current service members.

Revolution® Max Engine (on display now)

The brand-new Revolution® Max 1250cc engine powers a new generation of Harley-Davidson® motorcycles. See the liquid-cooled, 60-degree V-Twin that delivers for the Pan America™ adventure touring model and the performance cruiser Sportster® S motorcycle. On view in the Museum lobby.

Clubs & Competition (on display now)

In the early part of the 20th century, motorcycle culture was a homegrown phenomenon. It grew out of the passion of riders for their evolving sport. The camaraderie that developed around riding and attending competitive events led to the formation of motorcycle clubs that hosted destination rides, family picnics with motorcycle games and other riding competitions.

The newly reinstalled display case in the Clubs & Competition gallery highlights clothing from club members from primarily the 1930s and 1940s. The clothing selections on view include full dress uniforms, shirts, sweaters, jackets and caps, customized by the owners with their club’s name and logo, and pins or patches indicating membership in the American Motorcyclist Association. The H-D Archives collection includes Motorclothes® apparel sold in H-D® product catalogs but also non-H-D produced clothing items that have been proudly customized by riders.

Harley Fox (on display now)

Gail Anderson’s 1986 Softail® Custom motorcycle, “Harley Fox,” built by her partner Bob Burrows, took top prize at the first Ladies of Harley® (LOH) ride-in show during Daytona Beach Bike Week in 1987. With her custom bike and themed riding gear, Anderson presented a striking image that fit the growing visibility and exciting new options for women riders in the 1980s.

Alfonso Sotomayor’s 1957 Model FL (on display now)

The Harley-Davidson Museum is proud to announce its collection has recently grown with the addition of a 1957 Model FL that was ridden by famed Mexican stunt rider and racer Alfonso Sotomayor Canales.

Harley-Davidson’s history in Mexico dates back to at least 1913. In the 1920s, the brand was more frequently spotted throughout Mexico City as the motorcycles proved popular with the local traffic police who would also perform stunts with their Harley-Davidson® bikes. After racing from the 1930s into the 1960s, Sotomayor launched his own stunt riding career by performing the famed “Salto de la Muerte” or Jump of Death. Learn more about Sotomayor’s feats of derring-do and Harley-Davidson’s early entry into Mexico with this new display located in the Custom Culture area.

“Off-Road Harley-Davidson” (on display now)

In the decades before America paved its highways, early riders had to be prepared for all sorts of terrain: sand, clay or dirt – and wandering those makeshift byways were Harley-Davidson® motorcycles. Today, it’s called off-road or adventure touring; back then it was just called riding. Since 1903, Harley-Davidson motorcycles proved their toughness by riding over wooded hills, through stone-choked creek beds and up mountain sides. “Off-Road Harley-Davidson” tells the history of motorcycles designed for rough roads, the people who rode them and the adventures they shared.

“Building a Milwaukee Icon: Harley-Davidson’s Juneau Avenue Factory” (on display now)

A recently recovered cache of architectural drawings includes plans for the original Juneau Avenue facility. The pencil drawings, along with archival photographs, demonstrate the whirlwind pace of the company’s early growth. While building an international business—going from producing just over 1,000 motorcycles in 1909 to manufacturing 27,000 motorcycles in 1920—the company’s Milwaukee factory experienced near-constant expansion. Construction through this relatively brief period created the buildings that today, a century later, are still the proud home of Harley-Davidson.

“Building a Milwaukee Icon” provides a snapshot of Harley-Davidson’s formative years and illustrates a chapter of Milwaukee history when the city was known as the “Machine Shop to the World.”

THE SHOP

The Shop at the Harley-Davidson Museum is the place to find exclusive apparel, collectibles and accessories inspired by the H-D Archives. Check out new spring items that are arriving daily!

MOTOR® BAR & RESTAURANT

In addition to the Mama Tried Pre Party and the St. Patrick’s Day Indoor Bike Night revelry, MOTOR’s March specials are cooking all month long. Whether it’s the Peppercorn Burger (8 oz. hand-packed, ground chuck patty studded with a crushed peppercorn medley, topped with sautéed onions, Swiss cheese, and a whiskey peppercorn sauce and served with fries and pickle spear for $15.95), the Bangers & Mashed (locally sourced sausages, buttery mashed potatoes with onion gravy and sweet peas for $ 15.95) or the Old Fashion Bread Pudding (brioche baked in an orange and vanilla custard with dried cherries served with brandy caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream for $8.95), MOTOR® Bar and Restaurant serves up the ideal pairings of food and fun.

MOTOR is also teaming up with Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin for the first ever Friday Fish Fry Challenge, taking place Friday, March 4. Vote for your favorite fish fry by making a donation in the name of your favorite restaurant (obviously, it’s MOTOR). One donation = One vote. The team with the most votes wins the challenge and gets named the 2022 winner on Friday Fish Fry Day’s website! To avoid dipping into the staffs’ tips, the fundraiser will take place online only. Fans can vote at http://www.FeedingAmericaWI.org/fishfry or donate to the restaurant’s specific text keyword (text FISHFRY3 to 71777 to cast a vote for MOTOR).

1903 EVENTS

Did you see the news? The H-D Museum announced plans to reshape its campus. And that includes our special-events spaces. The all-new Garage will be open later this spring, and the team at 1903 Events would love to make your event one for the ages. Contact them now to book for this year (and beyond).

SAVE THE DATES

Milwaukee Day, April 14

Inaugural Bike Night, May 5

About the Harley-Davidson Museum

Discover culture and history through stories and interactive exhibits that celebrate expression, camaraderie, and love for the sport at the Harley-Davidson Museum. A visit to the H-D Museum is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. With an unrivaled collection of Harley-Davidson® motorcycles and memorabilia, a 20-acre, park-like campus, and a calendar full of activities, the H-D Museum is one of Milwaukee’s top tourist destinations for visitors from around the globe. Make your plans to visit the Harley-Davidson Museum at H-DMuseum.com.

Suzuki Announces More 2022 Models

David Swarts

-

March 2, 2022

0

Suzuki Launches Additional 2022 Models

Suzuki Adventure Touring, Off-Road, Cruiser and Street Models Round Out 2022 Models

Brea, CA (March 2, 2022) – Extending the momentum gained from exciting models like the all-new 2022 Hayabusa and GSX-S1000GT+, Suzuki Motor USA, LLC launches another wave of dynamic motorcycles to the lineup. This additional group of motorcycles brings together a collection of proven Suzuki products including highly capable adventure and off-road machines; wind in your face Boulevard cruisers and an exciting street bike that punches above its weight all while delivering great value.

Adventure Models:

Renowned for their reliability and value, Suzuki’s V-STROM models have attracted many riders who use their motorcycles for touring, commuting, and exploring new trails and roads with spirited performance. These are touchstone motorcycles balanced with a natural riding position, comfortable ergonomics, and a flexible engine character that produce riding excitement during daily commutes, cross-country trips, or a high-mile adventure.

V-STROM 1050XT and V-STROM 1050XT Adventure – The 2022 V-STROM 1050XT and the V-STROM 1050XT Adventure models return with the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.). These V-STROMs lead the Adventure category in technology as this advanced suite of features is interconnected to an ECM via a Controller Area Network (CAN) wire harness that quickly transmits information from a six-direction, three-axis inertial measurement unit (IMU). This IMU measures six directions of movement along three axes (as compared to the five directions measured on the previous generation). The IMU detects pitch, roll, and yaw movement based on the motorcycle’s position, movement, and acceleration. Other key technologies include:

Traction Control* with four sensitivity modes, Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (S-DMS), and Cruise Control that effectively maintains road speed through the Ride-by-Wire electronic throttle bodies.

Adjustable Motion Track Antilock** & Combined Brake System includes a Hill Hold Control system to aid the rider when stopped on an incline.

Slope Dependent Control System helps manage braking force to avoid rear wheel lift when riding downhill.

Load Dependent Control System monitors and retains braking force information to optimize braking force when riding with a passenger or heavy cargo.

Each element of S.I.R.S. helps provide V-STROM 1050XT riders with stress-free use and convenience during long-distance adventures, commuting, or pleasure riding.

The V-STROM 1050XT and V-STROM 1050XT Adventure’s S.I.R.S. electronic suite with key features that makes Adventure touring enjoyable, such as:

The Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (S-DMS) is a three-mode system that lets the rider select the engine’s power delivery characteristic to match riding ability and conditions. Working in concert with the Traction Control System*, S-DMS permits peak power in each mode while changing the nature of the power delivery.

A Mode – provides sharp throttle response.

B Mode – provides a moderate throttle response.

C Mode – provides the softest throttle response of the three modes.

The Cruise Control System maintains the selected road speed without the rider having to hold the throttle open. A button on the right handlebar control can be pressed to put cruise control into standby, and a rocker-style selector switch on the left handlebar control lets the rider adjust the speed up or down. Cruise control function icons and indicators are located on the instrument panel.

A 2022-model Suzuki V-STROM 1050XT. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.

2022 V-STROM 1050XT

MSRP $14,849

Click Here for More Details

The V-STROM 1050XT comes with an adjustable, wind-tunnel developed windscreen, handguards, a two-piece seat with height adjustability for the rider’s section, plus a rugged accessory bar and center-stand, and much more. The 1050XT has an exciting color scheme, Metallic Oort Gray with a sophisticated Glass Sparkle Black.

A 2022-model Suzuki V-STROM 1050XT Adventure. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.

2022 V-STROM 1050XT Adventure

MSRP $17,049

Click Here for More Details

The 2022 V-STROM 1050XT Adventure arrives with a recognizable Suzuki color scheme of Champion Yellow and Glass Sparkle Black with silver and blue accents plus gold-anodized rims on the spoke-style, tubeless wheels. Added to the 1050XT’s impressive standard equipment list is a set of Suzuki’s quick release 37L aluminum panniers, LED fog lights, and heated hand grips.

Off-Road Models:

If family fun is what you’re looking for, Suzuki off-road motorcycles offer riders young and old alike proven engineering, rugged styling, and great value. Suzuki off-road machines provide young and smaller stature riders with a great blend of durable off-road performance, premium features, and championship-winning RM-Z styling.

A 2022-model Suzuki DR-Z125L. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.

2022 DR-Z125L

MSRP $3,399

Click Here for More Details

DR-Z125L – The DR-Z125L is the perfect platform on which to build essential riding skills, as this capable small-bore off-roader has a manual clutch and a five-speed transmission so riders may develop their skills as they advance within the sport of motorcycling. Styled to mirror Suzuki’s legendary RM-Z motocrossers, this DR-Z arrives with a race-oriented look, while the sharp handling and strong low-end and mid-range power provide the get-up-and-go that defines off-road bikes. The bike’s race-ready looks prove you can’t judge a book by its cover, because the DR-Z125L is a fun yet easy to ride package packed with loads of fun. The DR-Z125L excites the senses with Suzuki’s iconic Champion Yellow bodywork for 2022.

Cruiser Models:

Suzuki’s 2022 Suzuki Boulevard cruisers are equally at home on city streets or out on the interstate. This collection of fuel-injected, V-twin engines deliver abundant torque, and were engineered for comfort, street-style, and reliability.

A 2022-model Suzuki Boulevard C50T. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.

2022 Boulevard C50T

MSRP $10,059

Click Here for More Details

Boulevard C50T – Ready for a highway tour? With the Suzuki 2022 Boulevard C50T, you’ll find yourself equally at home cruising downtown or touring out on the turnpike. Its fuel-injected, 50 cubic inch, V-twin engine delivers loads of torque and a road-commanding personality. Its bold, classic stance stands out in a crowd, while a long list of features makes it ideal for comfortable long-distance cruising. Tour-ready features include a spacious riding position, aerodynamic windshield, and custom studded saddlebags that match the studded dual seats that deliver all-day rider and passenger comfort. Beautiful Pearl Brilliant White paint with subtle blue graphics set off the C50T’s classic styling. Whitewall tires finish off the distinctive, old-school look.

A 2022-model Suzuki Boulevard C50. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.

2022 Boulevard C50

MSRP $8,609

Click Here for More Details

Boulevard C50 – Be ready to be the center of attention as the 2022 Suzuki Boulevard C50 turns heads wherever you cruise. The Boulevard C50 stamps an indelible impression on traditional cruiser styling that includes a kicked-out fork, valance-style fenders, and a staggered, chromed, dual exhaust system. Back for ’22, the C50 delivers a Candy Daring Red color or a Solid Iron Gray paint scheme with graphics that give the Boulevard C50 a classic look.

A 2022-model Suzuki GSX250R ABS. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.

2022 GSX250R ABS

MSRP $4,999

Click Here for More Details

GSX250R ABS – This confidence-inspiring sportbike features a proven, twin-cylinder, fuel-injected engine wrapped in stylish full-fairing bodywork. With responsive yet easy-to-control performance, the GSX250R ABS rewards the rider with great fuel efficiency, nimble handling, and a comfortable riding position. The 2022 GSX250R ABS features an eye-catching Metallic Crystal Blue with Pearl Nebular Black paint scheme that delivers big bike excitement to the 250 class and is perfect for new riders looking for Suzuki’s legendary sportbike vibe.

*The Traction Control System is not a substitute for the rider’s throttle control. It cannot prevent loss of traction due to excessive speed when the rider enters a turn and/or applies the brakes. Neither can it prevent the front wheel from losing grip.

**Depending on road surface conditions, such as wet, loose, or uneven roads, braking distance for an ABS-equipped vehicle may be longer than for a vehicle not equipped with ABS. ABS cannot prevent wheel skidding caused by braking while cornering. Please ride carefully and do not overly rely on ABS.

MV Agusta CEO Sardarov Denounces Russian Invasion

David Swarts

-

March 2, 2022

0

MV Agusta CEO Sardarov Denounces Russian Invasion

Early Tuesday morning MV Agusta CEO, Timur Sardarov, sent out an internal letter to all colleagues expressing his feelings and stance on the current situation.

He has expressed that this letter may be shared with anyone.

The letter reads as follows:

“Dear colleagues,

I would like to address you in these difficult times as I’m sure you are aware that there is a war inflaming between Russia and Ukraine. For me as a Russian it is the biggest tragedy of my 40 years of existence. I have never thought that I would feel so betrayed by the action of my own country.

I have a lot of friends in Ukraine and a lot of friends and family in Russia. During my upbringing and the upbringing of my parents we always considered each other as closest brother nations.

We had free movement between our cities, we never considered each other different. We supported each other, we fell in love with each other – before these horrific atrocities were conducted by the Russian regime.

All my family is shocked, all the people that I know are shocked, angry, and feel betrayed.

The repercussions for Europe and the whole world are very unpredictable.

The rhetoric that is coming out from the Russian and Western media are so polarised that it is making me sick. I believe that most of Russians also feel the same. Russians are a very proud nation and in our history no one has ever betrayed us more than this regime.

My thoughts and prayers are going to all the Ukrainian people and the poor Russian soldiers, young boys that have been thrown into this brother-killing conflict.

Sorry for emotions, but I don’t have many people to express them to and I consider all of you my family.

Sincerely,

Timur Sardarov”

CVMA: Gilbert And Lewin Win Big At Chuckwalla

David Swarts

-

March 2, 2022

0

CVMA: Gilbert And Lewin Win Big At Chuckwalla

CVMA Racing Round 5 2021/2022 Winter Series

Riders from all over the country converged in the California Desert for another round of super-competitive racing at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway this past weekend [February 26-27]. With the start of the racing season for the rest of the country approaching quickly, many top riders were in attendance to get a head start on their preparations. Many of the riders used the CVMA race weekend to prepare their SuperSport machines for the upcoming Daytona 200.

The club continues to expand with 11 New Racer School graduates on Friday. CVMA is proud to help grow the sport and help riders from Southern California, Arizona, Nevada, the Pacific Northwest, and all over the U.S. get their start in racing.

“CVMA would like to thank all our racers for their patience and input as we transition to a new motorsports management platform. The replacement of our registration/event management and timing/scoring systems is a big undertaking, but will offer our racers lots of new features and benefits. Huge thanks to Alex Mock (drtracinginc.com), Jonathan Wilson, and our entire staff for their herculean efforts implementing this new system,” said Micky Grana.

Saturday morning saw the riders qualifying for grids positions as always. Michael Gilbert was fastest on an Open Class bike turning a 1:45.474 lap time. Chad Lewin continued his dominance as the fastest rider on a Middleweight bike turning a 1:46.430 lap time. Justin Bordonaro was fastest on a Lightweight bike and Kayla Yaakov was fastest on an Ultra-Lightweight machine.

Some issues with gridding the races on our new timing system forced the club run a reduced nine-race schedule on Saturday. Winners on Saturday included Gilbert winning Formula Open, Lewin winning Formula Middleweight, and Yaakov winning the 500 Supersport race.

After resolving the issues experienced on Saturday, the club ran the full schedule of 17 races on Sunday.

In the premier race, The Open Shootout, Gilbert got the holeshot and led start to finish with David Anthony and Brandon Paasch rounding out the podium and collecting the big checks. At the start of the race, Gilbert was able to lead into Turn One with Aussie Dave, Jack Bakken, Paasch and Adolfo Delgato close behind. On the first lap, Paasch was able to pass Bakken to take over third position and the finishing order was set.

In the Supersport Shootout, Lewin continued his winning streak. At the start, Lewin led into Turn One with Sam Lochoff, Alejandro Thermiotis and Rocco Landers following. Landers was able to pass Thermiotis to take over third and that is how they finished: Lewin for the win, Lochoff second, and Landers third.

Owen Williams and Yaakov had a back-and-forth battle in the Ultra-Lightweight Shootout with Williams taking the win, Yaakov second, and young gun Jayden Fernandez rounding out the podium in third.

CVMA offers two full days of racing every race weekend and also includes Saturday qualifying for grid position in all classes, amateur and expert, as well as a wide variety of classes to choose from. Come on out to our next event on 3/26-3/27 and join us for the some of the most competitive racing in a super friendly paddock anywhere!

Additionally, CVMA offers free reciprocity as a means of encouraging racers from other clubs to come out and compete. Log on to www.cvmaracing.com for more information.

CVMA. It’s club racing done right.

Full race results for the event can be found at: https://speedhive.mylaps.com/Events/1953127

MotoGP: Quartararo, Bagnaia, Mir Kick Off Qatar GP In Style

David Swarts

-

March 2, 2022

0

MotoGP: Quartararo, Bagnaia, Mir Kick Off Qatar GP In Style

Lusail Iconic Stadium, set to host the final of the 2022 World Cup, welcomes MotoGP™ onto the turf ahead of the season opener

Wednesday, 02 March 2022

The 2022 Qatar GP began with a bang on Wednesday as 2021 MotoGP™ Champion Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™), runner up Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) and 2020 Champion Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar) headed to Lusail Iconic Stadium with a very special guest: Cafu.

The four saddled up at Lusail International Circuit and then rode on street bikes – with each rider representing for their factory and Cafu on a BMW M 1000 RR – to the stadium in a unique parade, riding right to the edge of the turf that will host the final of the 2022 World Cup. After a quick photo opportunity there, it was time to hit the changing room and get ready to head out onto the pitch.

Cafu, riding a BMW M1000RR, leads Fabio Quartararo (20), Francesco Bagnaia (63), and Joan Mir (36) on a ride to Lusail Iconic Stadium. Photo courtesy Dorna.

The three riders had a personalised national kit waiting for them, with Quartararo representing France, Bagnaia Italy and Mir Spain. Once suited and booted, they headed back onto the pitch with ambassadors of the Super Committee of Qatar: Cafu, Mubarak Mustafa and Khalid Salman, making them the first players to step on the grass ahead of its official inauguration later in March.

Now it’s back to familiar turf and the paddock, with the pre-event Press Conference on Thursday prefacing the first track action of the year on Friday morning. Lights out for MotoGP™ on Sunday is 18:00 (GMT +3) – so make sure to tune in!

QUOTES

Cafu: “It’s incredible to be in this stadium that will host the World Cup final. Being here with the guys from MotoGP has really been a fantastic experience. Seeing them on the track and what they do, being here with them playing football today has been a day to remember!

“On the football pitch, maybe I have some more experience! But they did really well, and it was a lot of fun, and we enjoyed it.”

Fabio Quartararo: “This is the first time I’ve played at a professional stadium, it’s really nice and we had fun with Pecco and Joan, it’s a good way to start the GP.

“I’m feeling strong, I feel I’m in good shape to fight for really good results, but we’ll see with our bike, we didn’t make a big step but I feel like in riding I’m really strong. To be honest we lost a bit on one-lap pace, I lost it a bit in pre-season, but on race pace I’ve been incredible. We can always improve but I felt super strong so let’s hope to have the same pace in this GP.”

Francesco Bagnaia (63) wheelied his Ducati Panigale V4 streetbike for the camera. Photo courtesy Dorna.

Francesco Bagnaia: “I enjoyed today, maybe it would be nice to always have pre-events like this! I’d like to see Italy in the final in this stadium, it would be great.

“I feel ready for the season, more than last year, for sure the last part of last season was very good and we start from there. The feeing with the bike is good, the feeling with the team is great and I think we have the potential to do a really good job. It looks like it will be a really nice Championship for the fans, because a lot of riders are fast and competitive with the bikes so I think it’ll be good.

“For sure the level is higher than last year, but we’re prepared for that. I think we can fight for the win.”

Joan Mir (36) did a rolling burnout on his Suzuki GSX-R1000R on the way to the stadium. Photo courtesy Dorna.

Joan Mir: “I enjoyed this a lot, today we got a masterclass and enjoyed it a lot. This place is amazing, before the World Cup it’s something special. Football is something I like to practice, although I don’t practice a lot, I enjoy it. So thanks for the opportunity! I enjoyed it and I hope to be back when the World Cup’s here.

“I think missing the last day in Mandalika isn’t something we’ll pay for. We’ve been testing well, maybe we are missing some time attacks to understand the limit of the bike, but I feel great. I think we can make a good start and be prepared. it’s always nice to start the season here in Qatar, it’s a track I always enjoy and FP1 is always dirty but it’s really nice.

“Every year I make a step in physical condition and experience, this is really important. I’m young and every year I have margin to improve, and physically I always have more. I trained a lot and I’m ready. Who knows what will happen, but let’s enjoy it.”

MotoAmerica Daytona 200 TV Broadcast & Live Streaming

David Swarts

-

March 2, 2022

0

MotoAmerica Daytona 200 TV Broadcast & Live Streaming

Daytona 200 To Air Live On MotoAmerica Live+

The Daytona 200, Live From Daytona International Speedway, On March 12

IRVINE, CA (March 2, 2022) – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is pleased to announce the television and MotoAmerica Live+ streaming options for watching the Daytona 200 at Daytona International Speedway, March 10-12.

All times listed are Eastern Standard Time
Thursday, March 10

Live Coverage

11:20 a.m. MotoAmerica Live+ coverage begins
Friday, March 11

Live Coverage

10:10 a.m. MotoAmerica Live+ coverage begins

4:45 p.m. MotoAmerica Facebook and YouTube live coverage of the Inaugural Pit Lane Challenge
Saturday, March 12

Live Coverage

8:50 a.m. MotoAmerica Live+ coverage begins

1 p.m. Daytona 200 race start on MotoAmerica Live+ and ESPN Latin America Star+
Same-Day Delayed Broadcast

8 p.m. MAVTV

8 p.m. MotoAmerica.TV (www.motoamerica.tv)

8 p.m. MotoAmerica Facebook

8 p.m. MotoAmerica YouTube
Sunday, March 13

4 p.m. MTRSPT1

About MotoAmerica

MotoAmerica is the North American road racing series created in 2014 that is home to the AMA Superbike Championship. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership that includes three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey, ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland, motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges, and businessman Richard Varner. For more information on MotoAmerica, visit www.MotoAmerica.com. Also make sure to follow MotoAmerica on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

MotoAmerica: Cash Purse Available In Pit Lane Challenge At Daytona

David Swarts

-

March 2, 2022

0

MotoAmerica: Cash Purse Available In Pit Lane Challenge At Daytona

MotoAmerica Will Host The Inaugural Pit Lane Challenge Prior To The Daytona 200

Which Team Is The Fastest On Pit Lane? It’s Time To Find Out

IRVINE, CA (March 2, 2022) – From the perfect pit stop to a slight misstep to a big blunder, what happens on Pit Lane at Daytona International Speedway usually plays a role as to who ultimately wears the biggest smile in Victory Lane at the conclusion of the Daytona 200.

We will all find out who was the fastest for the longest when the Daytona 200 concludes on Saturday afternoon, March 12, but a day earlier we will find out who is the fastest of the fast when it comes to pit stops as MotoAmerica will host the “Pit Lane Challenge,” a contest between the teams of the top-three qualifiers and two MotoAmerica-chosen wild cards in a battle for the lion’s share of the $16,000 purse.

At 4:45 p.m. on Friday, March 11, the top teams from qualifying will strut their stuff in the Pit Lane Challenge to see who can change both wheels, simulate filling the motorcycle with gas and push it across the timing strip the fastest. And if anyone forgets to tighten an axle nut… well, disqualification awaits them.

It all takes place at Victory Lane and will give spectators an up-close look at what goes into a winning pit stop in the Daytona 200. It will also give the winning team a year of bragging rights over their rivals.

“I think the Pit Lane Challenge will be a lot of fun to watch,” said MotoAmerica COO Chuck Aksland. “Pit stops in the Daytona 200 are an integral part of the race and can certainly determine the outcome. It’s definitely a pressure situation at the highest level. The Pit Stop Challenge adds another element to the weekend. We appreciate the support from the companies that are providing the purse for this event, and we look forward to finding out who claims the honor of Pit Stop Challenge Champion for 2022.”

The winning team from the Pit Lane Challenge will take home $7500 plus another $1000 worth of VP Fuel. The second-place squad will earn $5000; while the team who finishes third will get a payout of $3500.

MotoAmerica would like to thank the following sponsors for their support of the inaugural Pit Lane Challenge: Dunlop, Pirelli, Bridgestone, San Jose BMW, Millennium Technologies, Yoshimura, Parts Unlimited, VP Racing, Mission Foods, and COATZYMOTO/LATIN WE.

About MotoAmerica

MotoAmerica is the North American road racing series created in 2014 that is home to the AMA Superbike Championship. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership that includes three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey, ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland, motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges, and businessman Richard Varner. For more information on MotoAmerica, visit www.MotoAmerica.com. Also make sure to follow MotoAmerica on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

March 2022

Magazine Issue

Trudy Ulrich

-

March 1, 2022

0

On the Front Cover: When Hogs Fly: Racing Editor Chris Ulrich rides Kyle Wyman’s MotoAmerica King of the Baggers title-winning Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special 131R at Inde Motorsports Ranch. Photo courtesy Harley-Davidson.

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology is THE definitive source for motorcycle racing, riding, and tech information.

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine is available in print and digital formats. SUBSCRIBE NOW. Or call (909) 654-4779 to subscribe, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday.

Log in HERE to read the March 2022 issue of Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology with your online subscription.

In This Issue:

FEATURES

Inside Info: 2022 Harley-Davidson Road Glide ST & Street Glide ST; Honda CBR500R, CB500F, & CB500X; Indian Scout Rogue; KTM 890 Duke R, and more…

Historic Racebike Illustrations: 1992 ROC Yamaha 500cc Grand Prix V-4 Two Stroke

Racebike Test: Kyle Wyman’s MotoAmerica Championship-Winning Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special 131R Bagger

MotoGP Analysis: How Kalex Took Over The Moto2 World Championship

MotoGP Analysis: Remy Gardner, Second-Generation World Champion

Editor’s Scrapbook: RSD’s Roland Sands

Collections: The Karl Lehmann Foundation & Schoenewald Collection

RACING

World Superbike: Garrett Gerloff’s Big Adventure

Army of Darkness Endurance 2021 Part Two: Confirmation Bias In Racing

COLUMNS

Letters To The Editor: Visiting the ER; Racing At Vacaville; Remembering a Friend

10 Years Ago, March 2012: Riding the Attack Performance Kawasaki ZX-10R AMA Superbike; Kawasaki Ninja 650 and Triumph Speed Triple tested; Mat Oxley interviews 15-Time World Champion Giacomo Agostini

Numbers & Trivia: Garrett Gerloff’s Racing Career

The Kids’ Page: Carter Dreher

The Crash Page: Losing The Front At Barber

New Products: Electric Bikes, Helmet Spoiler; Engine Oil

Racing, School, & Track Day Calendar: Where & When To Ride

ASRA/CCS Newsletter

High-Performance Parts & Services

Chris Ulrich: Adventures Of An Ex-Racer: 2022 Brings New Sponsors, New Riders For MotoAmerica Season

Daytona 200: Eslick, Gagne, May, Paasch, Petersen Racing On Pirellis

David Swarts

-

March 1, 2022

0

Daytona 200: Eslick, Gagne, May, Paasch, Petersen Racing On Pirellis

Pirelli to Compete in First-Ever MotoAmerica Event and Returns as Multi-Time Daytona 200 Defending Champions

Impressive Team and Rider Lineup will Rely on the Performance of Pirelli’s DIABLO™ Superbike Range

ROME, Ga. (March 1, 2022) – Pirelli Tire North America is set to compete in its first-ever MotoAmerica event as racers prepare for the 2022 Daytona 200 at Daytona International Speedway in Florida. Pirelli returns to the 80th running of America’s most historic motorcycle race as two-time defending champions, and for 2022, MotoAmerica who is home of the AMA Superbike Championship has partnered with Daytona to host the iconic race. Pirelli will once again bring its complete DIABLO™ Superbike range to the grid as the brand looks to make it a three-peat.

“The Daytona 200 is an iconic event where Pirelli has experienced great success and it’s one that our brand looks forward to each year,” said Oscar Solis, senior racing manager, Pirelli. “Having won the Daytona 200 in both 2019 and 2021, the goal is to keep the momentum rolling and try to put a Pirelli rider on each step of the podium. We’re excited to have Brandon Paasch back to defend his title as well as bring in some new faces such as the current AMA Superbike Champion Jake Gagne who is able to choose the tire of his choice thanks to the open-spec rule.”

Pirelli’s long history of success in Daytona includes winning the 2019 Daytona 200 with Kyle Wyman (no race held in 2020) and the 2021 Daytona 200 with Brandon Paasch. Leading Pirelli’s stacked lineup of riders and teams will be the defending champion Paasch competing for TOBC Racing and joined by teammate Danny Eslick. MotoAmerica’s defending AMA Superbike Champion Jake Gagne will also be competing with DIABLO Superbike slicks aboard his Attack Performance Yamaha and joined by South African newcomer Cameron Peterson.

“I’m super excited to return to Daytona as the defending champion,” said Paasch. “I have a great opportunity in front of me and I am looking forward to another great result. I can’t thank Pirelli enough for the support and keeping me on-board for another year, which is really going to benefit my riding after spending so much time on the DIABLO Superbike slicks all last season in the British Championship. I look forward to seeing everyone soon at the speedway!”

Additional riders and teams include Vision Wheel M4 Ecstar Suzuki’s Geoff May, Syntainics/Penz13’s Sheridan Morais, TSE with British Superbike Championship brothers Matt Truelove and Harry Truelove, and several additional racers.

Despite winning the 2019 and 2021 Daytona 200, Pirelli continues to research and develop tires designed to tackle the one-of-a-kind racetrack. In 2021, Paasch’s Yamaha YZF-R6 relied on Pirelli’s DIABLO Superbike SC1 front in a 120/70R17 and DIABLO Superbike Daytona rear in 190/60R17 to handle the challenges of the high-banked 3.51-mile course. Pirelli racers will once again use a standard 120/70R17 DIABLO Superbike front and 190/60R17 Daytona-specific compound rear as a starting point.

Pirelli’s local trackside racing vendor, Mark Tenn Motorsports, will once again be offering a first-place contingency prize to any rider who wins on Pirelli tires. For complete details and eligibility, contact Mark Tenn Motorsports.

Click Here to learn more about the 2022 Daytona 200.

For more information about the complete line of Pirelli motorcycle tires, please visit Pirelli.com

Ducati Adds To E-Bike Range With New Futa Road Bike

March 3, 2022

A new Ducati Futa Limited Edition electric road bike. Photo courtesy Ducati.