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2024 KTM 300XC-W 2-STROKE

KTM has completed a top-to-bottom transformation of its XC-W off-road line, including the 2024 KTM 300XC-W. This bike has received a new motor, frame, and suspension. Unlike previous models, this is not just a repackaging of the same parts. The 300XC-W is a different bike built for a different purpose.

The 300XC-W is KTM’s trail-oriented off-road 300 two-stroke, not to be confused with the SX or XC, which are all-out race bikes. While the SX and XC share most major parts and were updated together, the W’s required a more challenging application of new technology. These bikes are built with power quality in mind and feature the PDS no-link rear suspension.

The frame of the 300XC-W was redesigned from scratch to accommodate the PDS suspension. It is not as simple as removing the linkage from last year’s SX suspension. The shock on the 300XC-W has a different body and internals compared to the SX. It now features a straight-rate spring and adjustable clickers for rebound.

The open-cartridge WP Xplor fork has been replaced with a coil-spring version of the Xact fork found on competition bikes. The fork legs are now symmetrical, with rebound damping on one side and compression on the other. The frame is new and more rigid laterally, isolating the rear suspension’s stress and flex from affecting the fork’s performance.

Furthermore, the motor has undergone significant changes. The transfer port injection (TPI) system has been replaced with throttle-body injection. While TPI was known for its smooth trail riding, the new throttle-body injection offers more peak horsepower. The 300XC-W also comes with an electronic power valve for improved tuning options.

Additional updates include new bodywork, an LED headlight, and pre-programmed maps in the ECU. The bike has a more race-oriented feel with a more rigid frame, stiffer suspension, and improved flex characteristics. The PDS rear end is stiffer and offers advantages in ground clearance and weight. The new fork provides better performance and stability, making it suitable for racing.

Overall, the 2024 KTM 300XC-W is a powerful bike with competitive capabilities. While it remains the bike of choice for trail riders, more racers are venturing into the trail-oriented XC-W models due to their power and suspension. Long-term evaluation of the bike will reveal more insights into its performance.

Cars

8 Engines That Revolutionized Aviation

When we think of Rolls-Royce, luxury cars usually come to mind. However, the company has also made significant contributions to the aviation industry with its aircraft engine manufacturing. One of their notable engines is the Rolls-Royce Dart turboprop engine, which was introduced in 1946. This engine combined the power of jet engines with the efficiency of propellers, making it a game-changer in the industry.

The Dart engine gets its name from the River Dart in the south of England, as Rolls-Royce traditionally names its products after British rivers. It played a key role in early commercial intercontinental travel and remained in production for an impressive 40 years. Initially used in the Vickers Viscount, it was later adopted by global manufacturers like Grumman, Fokker, Avro, and Breguet.

A turboprop engine is similar to a jet engine but features a conventional propeller at the front. The propeller draws air into the engine, which is then compressed and mixed with fuel in a combustion chamber. The resulting high-energy jet stream is expelled at the back of the engine. This design was particularly well-suited for medium-range aircraft like the Vickers Viscount. Notably, the Dart engine proved to be more fuel-efficient than regular jet engines, accumulating over 170 million hours of flight time during its long and successful tenure in commercial aviation.

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SHERCO ANNOUNCES 2024 LINE

Sherco has introduced its 2024 lineup of off-road bikes, featuring both two-stroke and four-stroke models. The four-stroke range includes the 500, 450, 300, and 250, while the two-stroke line consists of the 300, 250, and 125. The major highlight for 2024 is the improved performance of the 250 and 300 four-stroke models, which now have higher revs and increased power. Here are the specifications provided by Sherco:

450 – 500 SEF FACTORY

2024 Sherco 500SEF

SPECS

  • New 2024 graphics kit
  • New LED headlight
  • New front fender
  • New clutch cover
  • New swingarm
  • New Sherco Factory exhaust header pipe and Akrapovič silencer
  • New frame paint
  • New wheels
  • New rear sprocket
  • Blue Diamond SELLE DALLA VALLE seat
  • KYB front suspension with closed cartridges
  • KYB rear shock absorber
  • 6mm AXP skid plate
  • GALFER front brake disc
  • BREMBO brake system

250 – 300 SE TWO-STROKES

2024 Sherco 250SE Factory

SPECS

  • New 2024 graphics kit
  • New LED headlight
  • New front fender
  • New clutch cover
  • New swingarm
  • New frame paint
  • New wheels
  • New rear sprocket
  • Blue Diamond SELLE DALLA VALLE seat
  • KYB front suspension with closed cartridges
  • KYB rear shock absorber
  • GALFER front brake disc
  • BREMBO brake system

250 – 300 SEF FACTORY

2024 Sherco 300SEF Factory

SPECS

  • New 2024 graphics kit
  • New LED headlight
  • New front fender
  • New engine
  • Akrapovič exhaust system with titanium header pipe
  • New clutch cover
  • New swingarm
  • New frame paint
  • New wheels
  • New rear sprocket
  • Blue Diamond SELLE DALLA VALLE seat
  • KYB front suspension with closed cartridges
  • KYB rear shock absorber
  • 6mm AXP skid plate
  • GALFER front brake disc
  • BREMBO brake system

125SE FACTORY

2024 Sherco 125SE

SPECS

  • New 2024 graphics kit
  • New LED headlight
  • New front fender
  • New clutch cover
  • New swingarm
  • New frame paint
  • New wheels
  • New rear sprocket
  • Blue Diamond SELLE DALLA VALLE seat
  • KYB front suspension with closed cartridges
  • KYB rear shock absorber
  • GALFER front brake disc
  • BREMBO brake system

SPECS

  • Engine: 2-stroke single cylinder with electronically controlled valve system
  • Displacement: 124.81cc
  • Bore & Stroke: 54 x 54.50mm
  • Fuel supply: Keihin PWK 36 carburetor
  • Battery: BS 12V 140A Lithium Battery
  • Lubrication: 2% mixture
  • Fuel: 95-E10 unleaded gasoline
  • Cooling: Liquid with forced circulation
  • Starting: Electric starter
  • Exhaust: Chromed steel exhaust header pipe, Aluminum silencer
  • Ignition system: DC – CDI ignition with digital advance
  • Transmission: 6 speed – 520 O-ring chain
  • Clutch: Brembo hydraulic control, multi-disc in oil bath
  • Ignition: 220 W alternator
  • Chassis: Semi-perimeter high-strength chrome-molybdenum steel
  • Fuel tank: 10.4 L capacity
  • Brakes: Hydraulic Brembo, 260 mm Ø (front) – 220 mm Ø 220 (rear)
  • Front suspension: KYB 48 mm Ø fork – 300 mm stroke – closed cartridge technology – hydraulic setting + specific spring rate
  • Rear suspension: KYB 50 Ø18 mm shock absorber – 330 mm rear wheel travel – hydraulic + specific spring rate.
  • Front wheel: Excel 1.60 x 21’’ black anodized rim and Michelin Enduro Medium tire
  • Rear wheel: Excel 2.15 x 18’’ black anodized rim and Michelin Enduro Medium tire
  • Wheelbase: 1465mm (57.68 inches)
  • Ground clearance: 355mm (14 inches)
  • Saddle height: 950 mm (37.4 inches)
Featured

Kia Seltos Facelift Reaches Dealerships Ahead Of Launch


The Kia Seltos facelift clicked at the dealership was the GT Line variant finished in the new ‘Pewter Olive’ paint option

Kia Seltos facelift

  • #1 – Bookings for the Seltos facelift will begin from July 14.
  • #2 – Kia will offer the SUV in three variant lines: Tech (HT) Line, GT Line, and X-Line.
  • #3 – The SUV pictured had LED lighting, 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, and ‘GT Line’ badge.
  • #4 – Its interior features include new integrated displays, dual-zone AC, and electronic parking brake.
  • #5 – Additional features on offer on the GTX+ variant include a panoramic sunroof and ADAS.
  • #6 – The new Seltos comes with three 1.5-liter engines, each with its own automatic transmission.
  • #7 – The launch is likely to happen soon, and prices could start from Rs 11 lakh (ex-showroom).

The Kia Seltos facelift was recently unveiled in India as the first significant update for the compact SUV in nearly four years. Kia will be offering it in three broad variant lines: Tech (HT) Line, GT Line, and X-Line. Bookings for the refreshed Seltos will open from July 14. Images of the facelifted Seltos arriving at dealerships are now available for customers to see before the official launch.

Details Of The Model Pictured

In the images, the SUV is seen finished in the new ‘Pewter Olive’ paint option. It is the higher-spec GTX+ variant indicated by the ‘GT Line’ badge on the tailgate. The SUV features LED fog lamps, grille with honeycomb pattern, LED headlights with DRLs, dynamic turn indicators, 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, and connected LED taillights.

The Interior Bits

Kia Seltos facelift cabin

The interior of the GTX+ variant includes two 10.25-inch displays (one for instrumentation and the other for infotainment), dual-zone climate control, ventilated front seats, and an electronic parking brake with auto-hold function. Additional features on the GTX+ variant include a panoramic sunroof, wireless phone charging, an 8-way powered driver seat, rain-sensing wipers, and an 8-speaker Bose sound system.

Related: Kia Seltos Facelift’s Variant-wise Features Revealed

More Safety Tech On Offer

The facelifted Seltos comes with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, high-beam assist, and driver attentiveness alert. It also retains safety features like six airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), ISOFIX child seat anchorages, 360-degree camera, and front and rear parking sensors.

Choice Of Petrol And Diesel Engines

Kia Seltos facelift ADAS radar

The 2023 Seltos offers both petrol and diesel powertrains. It remains one of the few compact SUVs, along with the Hyundai Creta, to offer the option of a diesel engine. The engine-gearbox combinations are as follows:

Specification

1.5-litre Petrol

1.5-litre Turbo-petrol

1.5-litre Diesel

Power

115PS

160PS

116PS

Torque

144Nm

253Nm

250Nm

Transmission

6-speed MT, CVT

6-speed iMT, 7-speed DCT

6-speed iMT, 6-speed AT

Also See: Take A Closer Look At The Facelifted Kia Seltos In These 15 Images

Launch Update And Competition

Kia Seltos facelift rear

Kia is expected to launch the facelifted Seltos soon, with prices starting from around Rs 11 lakh (ex-showroom). In addition to the Hyundai Creta, the refreshed SUV will compete with the Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Maruti Grand Vitara, MG Astor, Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun, and the upcoming Citroen C3 Aircross and Honda Elevate.

Read More on : Kia Seltos diesel

Motorsport

New Pininfarina-Designed Helmets Cost Up To $1,990 With Roux Collab

Pininfarina and Roux Helmets have teamed up to create a new line of racing helmets that are now available. These helmets have been carefully designed for open-cockpit and GT (closed-cockpit) racing, incorporating some impressive technologies. They are suitable for racing in various categories, from Formula 4 to Formula 1, and have met the FIA 8859/Snell SA2020 safety ratings.

One notable feature of these helmets is Roux’s Cool-X integrated water cooling system, along with a built-in air port. This Cool-X technology allows for the circulation of cold water, set at a temperature of 52 degrees Fahrenheit, from a CoolShirt cooler. This helps drivers manage heat stress while they’re behind the wheel.


Motorsport

Watch Loaded Semi Trucks Twist with Torque in Uphill Drag Racing Competition

Drag racing is all about crossing the finish line first. While we enjoy seeing high-performance supercars and hypercars achieve impressive quarter-mile times, speed isn’t everything. Big rig drag racing serves as a reminder that powerful engines don’t always translate into high speeds.

In Ohio, Kuhnle Motorsports Park recently hosted the inaugural Unc’s Semi Stampede, featuring big-rig competitors from various classes in a Quebec-style uphill drag race. While these racers may not be known for their speed, a new video captures the thrilling on-track action as dozens of semi trucks with loaded trailers race to reach the finish line first.

These trucks generate massive horsepower, but it’s the torque that steals the show in these races. Not to mention, the dramatic effect of copious amounts of black smoke. The A-Class trucks, equipped with 19-liter V8 diesel engines, produce enough torque to lift one of the front tires when they unleash their full power.

The weight of the trailers, which exceeds 100,000 pounds, combined with the high-powered engines, subjects the trucks to tremendous stress, resulting in visible twisting action. The slight incline of the track adds to the challenge, although the trucks do not have to cover as much distance as traditional supercars, as they compete on 700-foot tracks.

Big rig uphill drag racing is not a new phenomenon, but its popularity is growing in the US. For instance, Quebec, Canada, has been hosting an event called the Rodeo du Camion (Truck Rodeo) since 1981. This event, which celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2022, attracts thousands of spectators annually and raises funds for the community. According to a 2019 report by TruckNews.com, the organization has collected $5.6 million between 1986 and 2019.

In the Unc’s Semi Stampede competition, A-Class trucks are required to be equipped with a 19-liter V8 diesel engine. They can have a maximum of two turbochargers, one injector per cylinder, and a fire extinguisher. The event also includes B and C Class competitors, each with their own set of rules. Notably, automatic transmissions were prohibited in the A and B classes.

Motorsport

Watch And Listen As A 33-Year Old Audi 200 I5 Turbo Dominates the Autobahn

In 1990, Audi was facing declining sales and an outdated product line. An unfounded sudden acceleration scandal had damaged the brand’s reputation, resulting in a 50% drop in US sales since 1985. Audi was on the verge of withdrawing from the North American market, similar to Alfa Romeo and Peugeot. However, they decided to focus on their strengths.

Unlike Alfa Romeo and Peugeot, Audi had two advantages: its turbocharged inline-five-cylinder engine and Quattro all-wheel drive system. These technologies were introduced in the 1980s with the original Ur Quattro and the Sport Quattro S1, a powerful rally car. By incorporating the turbo five-cylinder and Quattro AWD into the mild-mannered 200 model, Audi began to regain its prominence.

In its stock form, the 1990 Audi 200 Quattro produced 217 horsepower and 228 pound-feet of torque from its turbocharged inline-five engine. However, the owner of the metallic brown sedan featured in this video claims that it has been modified to produce 480 horsepower. They describe the car as a “grandpa on steroids” as it takes to the autobahn for a top-speed run.

The distinct growl of the five-cylinder engine fills the air as it idles. Unlike the smoothness of an inline-six engine, the five-cylinder emits a rougher, bear-like sound, conveying both anger and eagerness to accelerate. The car wastes no time in reaching high speeds on the autobahn.

At 5,000 rpm and 180 kph (approximately 112 mph), the Audi 200 maintains a steady course in the left lane. The resonance of the inline-five is reminiscent of Lamborghini Huracan and Audi R8, both equipped with V10 engines that share the uneven pulses of the five-cylinder. As the turbo boost kicks in, the car gains momentum and races towards its 7,000 rpm redline, leaving caution behind.

During the video, the Audi 200 reaches a top speed of 240 kph (approximately 150 mph) before the driver encounters traffic and exercises self-preservation. For comparison, a new Audi S6, considered the modern equivalent of the 200, has a claimed top speed of 155 mph. However, while the Audi S6 may offer a safer and more comfortable driving experience, it lacks the raw excitement provided by the modified Audi 200 as it conquers the autobahn.

News

Ford Fiesta production comes to an end after 47 years

The production of the Ford Fiesta, one of the most popular supermini cars, is coming to an end today, Friday 7th July. This decision was made by Ford late last year and marks the conclusion of 47 years and eight generations of the Fiesta.

Two final Fiestas will be kept by Ford. One will be added to the company’s international heritage fleet located in Cologne, Germany, where the model was manufactured. The other will join the UK heritage fleet.

The reason for axing the Fiesta is to create space in the factory for the production of the upcoming Ford Explorer electric SUV. Martin Sander, the general manager of Ford Model E Europe, stated in December 2022 that the brand needed the space for construction as the Cologne plant is being transformed into a fully battery-electric facility.

Ford Fiesta axed to make space for new electric cars in Cologne

“We decided to build our first high-volume electric vehicle here in Cologne,” said Sander. “There comes the point where we need the space for construction, because we are turning the Fiesta plant into a fully battery-electric plant. This is why we had to make a decision that we have to stop Fiesta production.”

The Cologne EV centre, which is Ford’s first carbon-neutral factory, officially opened on 12th June.

The Ford Fiesta has consistently been one of the top 10 best-selling cars in the UK since its launch in 1976. It even held the top spot from 2009 to 2020, making it the car with the longest consecutive years on top. However, in 2021, the Fiesta dropped out of the top 10 due to disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. The shortage of semiconductors resulted in a six-month backlog for the supermini, leading Ford to pause Fiesta orders in June 2022.

News

Confirmed: Ford Fiesta production to end next week

The production of the Ford Fiesta will officially come to a close on July 7th, marking the end of a 47-year-long journey that spanned eight generations of the popular supermini, according to Autocar.

Following the discontinuation of the Fiesta, Ford will keep the final two models. One will join the company’s international heritage fleet, housed at the Cologne plant in Germany where the model was manufactured, while the other will be part of the UK heritage fleet.

The decision to axe the Fiesta was made to free up space in the factory for the production of the upcoming Ford Explorer electric SUV, as Martin Sander, general manager of Ford Model E Europe, explained to Autocar back in December 2022.

Sander stated, “We decided to build our first high-volume electric vehicle here in Cologne. There comes the point where we need the space for construction because we are turning the Fiesta plant into a fully battery-electric plant. This is why we had to make the decision to stop Fiesta production.”

On June 12th, Ford officially opened its Cologne EV Centre, which is the brand’s first carbon-neutral factory.

The Ford Fiesta has been a consistent presence on the UK’s list of top 10 best-selling cars since its launch in 1976. It held the top spot from 2009 to 2020, the longest consecutive run in history. However, the Fiesta dropped out of the top 10 in 2021 due to supply chain disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. This forced many manufacturers, including Ford, to prioritize parts for more profitable crossovers and SUVs. Ford paused Fiesta orders in June 2022 due to semiconductor shortages, resulting in a six-month backlog for the supermini.

NewsNew

2024 BETA XTRAINER ANNOUNCED

Beta has revealed some details about its 2024 model line, and one of the highlights is the 2024 Xtrainer. This off-road motorcycle is equipped with a 300cc two-stroke engine and comes at an attractive price. Last year, the Xtrainer underwent a complete redesign, and for the 2024 model, Beta has made further improvements in terms of form and function. The aim is to make the Xtrainer even more versatile and usable in various off-road riding conditions.

The Xtrainer stands out with its unique package of technical specifications, equipment, performance, ergonomics, and design. It now features a security/safety system, along with new graphics, for the 2024 model year. The engine’s power delivery is one of the standout features of the Xtrainer, as it is designed to meet the needs of riders who want a motorcycle that is easy to handle and practical in different situations. Inspired by trials riding, the Xtrainer offers adaptability and ease of use, making it suitable for beginners, seasoned enduro riders, and even experts who want an extreme enduro companion. With the Xtrainer, riders can focus on enjoying the off-road experience without any hassle.

Some notable features of the 2024 Xtrainer include:

  • Limited weight, tipping the scales at only 218 lbs.
  • A unique frame design that is approximately 15% smaller than the standard RR models, providing a smaller and more nimble feel.
  • A reduced seat height by 20mm compared to the RR model range, making it easier for riders to touch the ground in tricky conditions.
  • Nissin hydraulic disc brakes measuring 260mm at the front and 240mm at the rear.
  • A lightweight and high-performance lithium battery.
  • Single-track-inspired R16V suspension with 43mm forks at the front and a rear shock with linkage. The suspension offers adjustable spring preload and rebound damping.
  • An electric start for quick and convenient starting. There is also an option for a backup kick starter.
  • The Beta progressive exhaust valve that can be adjusted externally to optimize the engine’s performance based on riding conditions.
  • A two-position MAP switch that works independently from the power valve adjuster, allowing riders to have more control over engine tuning.
  • A transparent fuel tank with a capacity of 2.3 gallons.
  • An oil injection system that eliminates the need for premixing. The oil tank is located below the seat, and the seat can be easily removed for maintenance.
  • Off-road-friendly soft tires that enhance the Xtrainer’s handling and provide more grip over rocks and roots.
  • A cooling fan that is standard on all Xtrainers, automatically maintaining the engine at the perfect temperature.
  • A 300 cc engine derived from the RR models but tuned differently for the Xtrainer. The engine delivers softer overall power, and combined with the torquey exhaust pipe, offers a power delivery that feels almost electric. The special diaphragm clutch has three positions of adjustment to suit the rider’s preferences.
  • An electronic key/safety system that provides a secure lock-out key exclusively for the motorcycle. The system also includes a steering lock and a wristband tether that, when disconnected, will kill the engine for added safety.

As for pricing, the 2024 Xtrainer will be available at a price of $8,399.00, plus a $489.00 destination fee. Keep in mind that professional dealer setup, taxes, license, and other required fees are not included in the price.

The Xtrainer is expected to be available in September 2024.