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Why The 2024 Honda Gold Wing Offers The Ultimate Luxurious Touring Experience

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Summary

  • The Honda Gold Wing has developed from its “old man’s bike” fame, providing unmatched consolation and expertise for all riders.
  • With a robust 1,833cc engine and modern options like Cruise Control and DCT transmission, the Gold Wing stands out within the touring market.
  • Despite its hefty weight, the Gold Wing excels in reliability, luxurious, and efficiency, making it a best choice for these in search of a premium touring expertise.

The consensus is that the Honda Gold Wing is an outdated man’s bike. But that’s fallacious on so many ranges. That might have been the case in its early years, but it surely has come a good distance since Honda’s 1974 GL1000. Not many bike firms can boast of a mannequin that has been in manufacturing for 50 years, though the mannequin was discontinued in Japan in 2023.

In 2024, the Wing continues to remain on sale in North America, signaling a continuation of its legendary legacy. Last yr, Honda did point out the Gold Wing could be obtainable in 5 trims and although the web site reveals solely two, it does will let you customise. Taking the Gold Wing Tour Airbag DCT mannequin under consideration, and additional demarcating the bottom mannequin and its choices, it makes 5 trims – the bottom Gold Wing in Manual or DCT, the Gold Wing Tour with six-speed or DCT, and the Gold Wing Tour Airbag DCT. Let’s try why it is an unmatched choice right this moment.

To provide the newest and correct info potential, the info used to compile this text was sourced from Honda.

BMW K1

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Mechanical Prowess

The Gold Wing’s horizontally opposed 1,833cc six-cylinder engine is well-known for its smoothness and energy. The design is over 13 kilos lighter than earlier generations and eight kilos much less in DCT trims. The high-strength aluminum cylinder sleeves assist scale back weight and improve cooling effectivity, whereas the 73 mm cylinder bore (in addition to the quick high-strength crankshaft) helps scale back the engine size, making it extra compact. The engine makes use of a four-valve, Unicam cylinder head design that improves efficiency and energy, and likewise contributes to the engine’s weight discount from its earlier era. This four-valve-per-cylinder design performs an enormous half within the Gold Wing’s superior gas effectivity, too.

Since the mill is mechanically unmatched within the trade, Honda’s left issues principally unchanged for 2024. This yr’s updates are restricted particularly to beauty enhancements, notably new shade choices. Its final substantial overhaul got here in 2018, when Honda threw upgrades to the engine, the addition of a double wishbone suspension, enhancements within the suspension, electronics, audio, rider conveniences, and weight discount measures, Since then, the Gold Wing has remained comparatively unchanged by way of mechanical modifications, however the revisions broadened the Gold Wing’s attraction considerably. Last yr additionally noticed a navigation replace obtainable for obtain.

Key Highlights

  • Latest era all-aluminum body is considerably lighter and extra compact than earlier editions
  • State-of-the-art die-casting permits Honda to fine-tune chassis rigidity, giving each a easy journey and exact dealing with.
  • The Gold Wing’s revolutionary 7-speed Automatic DCT shifts are sooner and smoother, and the overdrive seventh gear is ideal for freeway cruising.
  • You might imagine it is only for cosmetics, however the Gold Wing’s twin-wall exhaust design retains issues cooler as in comparison with a single-wall design.

Engine Specifications

Engine

Horizontally opposed, six-cylinder, four-stroke. Unicam® SOHC; 4 valves per cylinder

Displacement

1,833cc

Bore x Stroke

73.0mm x 73.0mm

Max Power

–

Max Torque

–

Compression Ratio

10.5:1

Cooling System

Liquid-cooled

Induction

Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI); 50mm throttle physique

Crazy Good Features

Honda’s top-of-the-line 2024 Gold Wing Tour Airbag DCT
Honda

On the gear entrance, the Gold Wing’s pace will be set through Cruise Control, because of the fly-by-wire-throttle that may be adjusted whereas on the transfer. Rider modes are straightforward to entry, permitting adjustments in engine traits, suspension, and rider aids. In full Tour DCT mode, it has seven semi-active gears, a reverse, and the 1.1 miles per hour “Walking mode” that may be accessed on the contact of a button. The low-speed reverse gear on the Tour DCT mannequin makes use of engine energy, whereas the Gold Wing Tour with guide transmission affords a novel electrical reverse. Both programs make it straightforward to maneuver the bike out of a parking house, particularly if it’s good to roll again up an incline.

Dual-Cutch Transmission (DCT)

Other than that, at greater speeds in Sports mode, the gears maintain out longer, whereas throughout speedy deceleration, the automatic transmission downshifts a couple of gears quickly and with out issues. Economy mode, although, is a special story, particularly when on the throttle aggressively, the transmission will short-shift all the best way to prime gear, refusing to down-shift gears when it must be doing so. That’s been executed to advertise gas effectivity, after all. Unfortunately, the cruise control is not adaptive on account of a scarcity of radar, which additionally means there’s no blind-spot detection. Although unquestionably dependable, a difficulty at slower speeds between first and second gears with DCT has been the dearth of management because of the non-existence of a clutch lever, and taking its payload under consideration, it may be unnerving.

Ohlins Front Forks

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Integrated Starter Generator

Honda has gone the space by establishing an built-in starter generator. While most bikes have the components individually situated, Honda has mixed the starter motor and generator into one compact part that immediately results in the Wing’s general weight-savings – 5.3 kilos to be actual. The generator turns into the starter motor when the polarity is reversed. In addition to this, helical gears with tooth set at a particular angle to the gear axis are used within the {hardware} for lowered mechanical noise and vibration. Another handy function of the Gold Wing is the engine shutting off robotically after three seconds when in visitors. With the mixed assist of throttle-by-wire management and DCT, restarting is initiated easily and instantaneously when the rider turns the throttle.

Honda Pro Arm Swingarm

On the suspension entrance, Honda makes use of their proprietary single-sided aluminum Pro Arm swingarm design that homes the Gold Wing’s shaft drive. The swingarm hyperlinks to the body utilizing a patented pivot construction that will increase stiffness and reduces weight, resulting in responsive dealing with and a easy journey. The Wing Tour takes it to another level altogether, that includes suspension that may be electrically managed through 4 adjustable modes for various masses. Riders can choose from Rider, Rider with loaded baggage, Rider and Passenger, and Rider and Passenger with loaded baggage whereas the suspension robotically adjusts on the fly as you journey.

Reliability and Quality

2021 Honda Gold Wing Suspension
Honda

The Wing is extraordinarily comfy, and it’s akin to proudly owning a small automobile. It can eat up something that’s thrown at it, munching up potholes and bumps, and also you gained’t really feel a factor, because of its double wishbone suspension and ridiculous payload. Its modern design adjustments the trail the wheel travels by way of the suspension stroke and that lets each the engine and the rider and passenger transfer nearer to the entrance wheel. The brakes are stated to supply wonderful stopping energy each time, because of Honda’s ABS-linked braking system that includes twin three-piston calipers on the entrance and a single three-piston caliper on the rear. They’re mated to full-floating 296 mm and 316 mm rotors respectively.

The Gold Wing is well-engineered, however for many who are new to it, it’s tough to start with. It might have lost quite a bit of weight from the earlier era, but it surely’s nonetheless heavy. Its 802 / 804-pound weight (relying on which trim you’re taking a look at) is clear when taking it off the stand, and can take a while to get used to. We don’t advocate attempting to lean the bike over side-to-side after you have your leg over the seat – it’s a leviathan of a motorbike and never a 300-pound entry-level providing.

Touring Luxury Reinvented

A View Of A 2024 Honda Gold Wing's Cockpit
Honda

Despite its static mechanical configuration, the 2024 Gold Wing continues to supply an intensive array of touring-friendly options. Covering lengthy distances is simpler when the onboard leisure system offers many choices and Honda even upgraded the onboard audio system to 45 watts a few years in the past. Across all trims (excluding guide), riders get a 7-inch TFT display, navigation, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration, an adjustable electrical windscreen, Smart Key operation, 4 using modes, traction control, and Hill Start help.

The 7-inch show display is probably not as much as the requirements of a Ducati, Kawasaki, or BMW, but it surely will get the job executed. It is flanked by an analog speedometer and tachometer, which is beneficial and appears good, however why Honda hasn’t gone utterly digital is anybody’s guess. The DwellingLink Wireless Control System is non-compulsory, in the meantime.

2021 Honda Gold Wing Headlight
Honda

Protecting the rider from the weather is Honda’s display. Electrically managed, it strikes each up and down over a distance of 4.9 inches, adjustments angle as it’s raised and lowered, and likewise remembers the final setting it was set to. It affords wonderful wind safety because the rider is now nearer to the entrance wheel and subsequently sits nearer to the windscreen, which is narrower, decrease, and has a extra sporty profile than earlier generations.

The Gold Wing would not be full with out its storage amenities. For 2024, it options built-in saddlebags that may be opened electronically with the push of a button and be locked and unlocked remotely with the sensible key. They’re additionally hydraulically damped for easy operation. In the Tour model, the Wing will get the 61-liter prime field with an built-in passenger backrest.

Gray 2021 Honda Gold Wing DCT cruising on the road

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Strong Price Compared To American Options

A 2024 Honda Gold Wing Snaking Through The Road
Honda

Today, the Gold Wing Tour Airbag DCT instructions an MSRP of $33,000, a modest $100 improve from the earlier yr. Meanwhile, the Gold Wing Tour and Tour DCT are priced at $28,700 and $29,700 respectively. As for the bottom mannequin, it’s obtainable in a six-speed guide transmission or DCT at $24,700 and $25,700 respectively. At this worth, the bike is less expensive than the likes of the Harley-Davidson CVO Road Glide or Indian Challenger Elite.

AIRBAG: The Gold Wing pioneered the idea of a motorbike airbag, and the 2024 Gold Wing Tour continues to cleared the path.

All in all, the Honda Gold Wing has remained mechanically unchanged since 2018, however you continue to get a bucket load of tech and an unmatched mixture of consolation, expertise, and refinement. Its 1,833cc flat-six engine is as easy as butter as ever and guarantees riders an unforgettable expertise. So for those who’re available in the market for the last word touring bike that additionally affords sports activities capabilities, that is it!

Additional Specifications

Gold Wing

Gold Wing Automatic DCT

Transmission

Six-speed guide transmission

Seven-speed automated DCT plus reverse and strolling mode

Final Drive

Shaft

Shaft

Front Suspension / Wheel Travel

Double wishbone; 4.3 inch-travel

Double wishbone; 4.3 inch-travel

Rear Suspension / Wheel Travel

Pro Arm® single-sided swingarm with Pro-Link® single shock; 4.1 inch-travel

Pro Arm® single-sided swingarm with Pro-Link® single shock; 4.1 inch-travel

Rake / Trail

30.5° / 4.3 inches

30.5° / 4.3 inches

Front Tire

130/70-18

130/70-18

Rear Tire

200/55-16

200/55-16

Wheelbase

66.9 inches

66.9 inches

Seat Height

29.3 inches

29.3 inches

Curb Weight

802 kilos (consists of all normal gear, required fluids, and a full tank of gas)

804 kilos (consists of all normal gear, required fluids, and a full tank of gas)

Fuel Tank Capacity

5.5 US gallons

5.5 US gallons
BMW

Victory and podiums for the BMW M 1000 RR in WorldSBK and FIM EWC: Successful Super Weekend for BMW Motorrad Motorsport at Assen and Le Mans.

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Assen / Le Mans. Two World Championship occasions with the BMW M 1000 RR in a single weekend – and far celebration at BMW Motorrad Motorsport on a very ‘Super Weekend’. At the third spherical of the 2024 FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK) at Assen (NED), Toprak Razgatlioglu (TUR) and the ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team celebrated a sensational victory within the second primary race on Sunday after ending second on Saturday. In the FIM Endurance World Championship, the BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team began the 2024 season with a second-place end on the Le Mans (FRA) 24 Heures Motos.

 

WorldSBK at Assen.

At the WorldSBK occasion at Assen, Razgatlioglu was heading in the right direction for victory within the first primary race on Saturday. In extraordinarily changeable circumstances, ranging from third place, he was on his solution to taking the lead when the race was red-flagged, thus ending second on the rostrum. A difficult Superpole race on Sunday morning didn’t deter him. Razgatlioglu completed ninth and needed to begin the second race within the afternoon from that place. However, ‘El Turco’ charged by way of the sector and took the lead for the primary time on the eighth lap. In the ultimate levels, he secured the highest spot definitively, thus incomes Razgatlioglu his third victory with the BMW M 1000 RR following the successes at Barcelona (ESP). After Assen, he’s in second place within the championship standings.

Razgatlioglu’s teammate Michael van der Mark (NED) additionally fought for podium positions at his Assen dwelling race. Starting from thirteenth place, he completed seventh within the shortened first race. In the Superpole race, he was the most effective BMW rider, ending eighth. In the second primary race, van der Mark was among the many contenders within the main group earlier than ending sixth. Due to a penalty, he was categorised as ninth. In the Bonovo motion BMW Racing Team, Scott Redding (GBR) secured two top-ten finishes, eighth in race one and tenth within the Superpole race. The finest consequence for his teammate Garrett Gerloff (USA) was eleventh place within the Superpole race, adopted by twelfth place in race two.

FIM EWC at Le Mans.

The well-known 24 Heures Motos at Le Mans marked the opening spherical of the 2024 FIM EWC. The BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team, led by Team Manager Werner Daemen (BEL), made a powerful begin to the brand new season with the #37 BMW M 1000 RR. The three common riders, Markus Reiterberger (GER), Ilya Mikhalchik (UKR), and Sylvain Guintoli (FRA), secured second place on the rostrum. The trio began the twice-around-the-clock marathon from fifth place. With flawless performances from the riders and the crew’s glorious work within the pit, the #37 shortly climbed into the rostrum positions and was already in second place on Saturday after just a few hours of racing. The crew maintained this place till the end on Sunday afternoon.

In the FIM EWC Superstock class, the Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team fought for its second Le Mans victory with the #9 BMW M 1000 RR. Starting from second place in school, Kenny Foray (FRA), Jan Bühn (GER), Loïc Arbel (FRA), and Hannes Soomer (EST) had been briefly within the lead. After a crash in the course of the evening, they labored their manner again as much as fourth place in school, nevertheless attributable to a technical subject, the #9 bike retired prematurely.

Reactions after the race weekend.

 

Marc Bongers, BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director: “I’m extraordinarily glad – it has been an excellent weekend. Of course, I may solely partly observe Le Mans from Assen, however I watched it till 1 a.m. on Saturday evening and from 6 a.m. on Sunday morning. It’s nice that the BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team secured P2 there. We had been additionally a bit fortunate with points at different groups, however that’s additionally a part of a 24-hour race. After ending third final 12 months and second this 12 months, you possibly can think about what the purpose is for subsequent 12 months. It has been a fantastic begin to the FIM EWC 2024.

Here at Assen, it was my dwelling race and a mega occasion for me personally. The many followers, together with the numerous Turkish followers, created a improbable environment. On Saturday, we had been disillusioned to not have a win within the first primary race as a result of we had been very shut nevertheless it confirmed that now we have the tempo to make it. The Superpole Race was barely disappointing; all 4 BMWs had tyre points, leading to positions eight to eleven, however we made up for it within the second primary race. It was a fantastic battle on the entrance with seven or eight bikes inside a second, and Toprak and Mickey proper in the course of it. In the tip, we celebrated one other victory with Toprak and at the moment are additionally within the prime group of the championship. Mickey’s sixth place was sturdy too, although he was sadly moved again. We noticed that the bike has the efficiency, not solely with Toprak, although he squeezes out that further bit. We take these constructive boosts with us.”

Toprak Razgatlioglu, ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team (SP: 3 / R01: 2 / SP Race: 9 / R02: 1): “I am very happy. We did a very good job this weekend, especially in race two. It was not easy to take the win but in every lap I pushed hard. Everyone was working so hard this weekend and we finally won in race two. It was my first victory at Assen in the Superbike class, and also the first win here for BMW so I am very happy. It was not really important that I started from P9 because if you are really fast this is not a problem. The only problem was that after the first corner, Alex Lowes almost crashed and I closed the gas. After that, I tried to pass all the riders step by step. I felt confident and especially after ten laps I had very good pace. When the rain came, I just closed the gas because I did not want to take a risk. I just followed Alvaro Bautista who is more experienced than me. Then I started to push again. I wanted to win this weekend and I did.”

Michael van der Mark, ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team (SP: 13 / R01: 7 / SP Race: 8 / R02: 9): “I think we should be quite happy with the results this weekend. This morning in the Superpole race, the goal was to be in the top nine and we managed to do it so we had a better start position for race two. I then had a good start and gained some places straight away. I had good pace and the top group was just in front of me. At some point it started raining again in the middle sector. We had some really nice battles and it was great to fight with the guys in front. I struggled a bit at the end of the race with the riding style and fell back a bit into my old habit. I tried to push too hard to follow the guys. Then at the end I got a time penalty. It was a shame to lose P6 but it is what it is. If you look back on the weekend we showed that we are strong. It was also fantastic to see Toprak taking another win today so I am pretty sure that soon we will have two BMWs on the podium.”

Scott Redding, Bonovo motion BMW Racing Team (SP: 15 / R01: 8 / SP Race: 10 / R02: DNF): “The warm up was very cold, but the Superpole Race was pretty good. I managed to find a better feeling again from yesterday which was the goal. It was a lot to play for with the tyres. Everyone went more or less with the same tyre, but it was dropping a lot. We could see that with the lap times and the performance of everyone but I actually felt quite good. The changes we made from yesterday to today were positive so going into race two I had a bit more confidence. I felt ready for the race. My start was ok, but I was stuck a little bit with two guys, struggling to pass them but then while braking into the last corner I lost the front, which I was a bit upset about because I felt I had good pace today for another top-ten or maybe even more. I’m just upset with that. I want to apologize to the team, they’ve been great. We’ll come back for Misano and try again.”

Garrett Gerloff, Bonovo motion BMW Racing Team (SP: 17 / R01: 16 / SP Race: 11 / R02: 12): “Today was better than yesterday. It was nice to just be higher up the order but I’m still so far back it’s getting frustrating. I’m trying different solutions to the things we’re struggling with, but it hasn’t been very clear. I’m pushing but it’s not coming yet. We just have to keep working and see if we can make some improvements for the next race.”

Werner Daemen, Team Manager BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team: “I am very proud that we finished in second place. All three riders made a tremendous job. Nobody crashed, we had some difficulties in the night when it was very cold but all three riders coped with the conditions and I am very proud of them. They went for it over the entire week, worked together well and we had a very good atmosphere in the team. We showed that we are a strong team and I think that the second place is just the start of a fantastic season. I am hundred percent sure that we can fight for the victory in Spa, Suzuka and Le Castellet.”

Sylvain Guintoli, BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team (2nd place 24 Heures Motos): “It was a good weekend. In the end we finished second and we have to be happy with that. We’ve learned a lot and it has been my first experience with the BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team with Markus and Ilya. It has been a good experience. It’s a bit of a shame that we didn’t win because we wanted to bring it home but I’m sure that all the experience gained during this weekend and this race, which was pretty tough, will help us to get better in the future. It’s a good base to build on for the rest of the season.”

Markus Reiterberger, BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team (2nd place 24 Heures Motos): “We are very satisfied with the second place. Of course, we would have liked to win, but in such a tough, long race, with so much happening, so many crashes and mistakes, we did quite well. We had good pace, and especially at night, we were very fast when it was really cold. It was a real challenge due to the cold and tricky conditions. Thanks to the team and my teammates who gave it their all. I believe we have shown that we can be contenders in the World Championship. We also know where we need to make adjustments to get even better. Overall, it was a successful weekend with the second place at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.”

Ilya Mikhalchik, BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team (2nd place Heures Motos): “I am really happy about the result. It has been a very difficult race, especially in the night stints when it was almost zero degrees outside. It was a bit cold to ride the bike and the conditions were tricky but even then our bike performances really well, the tyres were working well and everything was okay. We were fighting for the podium places and in the end we got P2 so for sure we are happy. Thanks to the entire crew who worked through all the night and especially thanks to my team-mates who were really fast and did their best in all the stints, no matter what the conditions were.”

BMW

24 Heures Motos: BMW Motorrad Motorsport kicks off its title chase within the FIM Endurance World Championship at Le Mans.

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Le Mans. Go time for the endurance heroes. BMW Motorrad Motorsport kicks off the 2024 season within the FIM Endurance World Championship (FIM EWC) with the 24 Heures Motos at Le Mans (FRA) on twentieth/twenty first April. In the highest class, the Formula EWC, BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team returns to hunt for total victories and the world championship title with the #37 BMW M 1000 RR. This yr, the core trio consists of Markus Reiterberger (GER), Ilya Mikhalchik (UKR), and new addition Sylvain Guintoli (FRA). The fourth rider is Estonian Hannes Soomer. In the Superstock class, the Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team is the recent BMW contender. In its 2023 debut season, the French staff proved that it’s among the many greatest within the discipline.

 

For complete details about BMW Motorrad Motorsport’s involvement within the FIM EWC 2024, please go to on-line:

https://b.mw/BMW_FIM_EWC_EN

 

BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team.

The three common BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team riders for the 2024 season comprise continuity and a powerful addition. The two BMW Motorrad manufacturing facility riders Reiterberger and Mikhalchik have been integral elements of the staff led by Team Manager Werner Daemen (BEL) because the debut season 2019/20. Together, they instantly secured podium finishes with the #37 bike, adopted by their first victory in 2021. In the 2022 season, they celebrated triumph on the 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps (BEL) and completed as runner-ups on this planet championship. Last season, the Reiterberger/ Mikhalchik staff claimed podium finishes in all three 24-hour races, achieved sixth place as the most effective European staff in Suzuka (JPN), and completed third on this planet championship standings.

The outstanding new addition to the trio is Guintoli, who has already clinched the world championship title in each the FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK) and the FIM EWC. The Frenchman is likely one of the most skilled and revered riders in worldwide motorbike racing. As a BMW Motorrad manufacturing facility rider, he’s additionally a part of the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Test Team and intently concerned within the growth of the BMW M 1000 RR.

Another new member of the BMW household is Soomer. The 26-year-old Estonian will help each the BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team and the Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team because the fourth rider within the upcoming season.

Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team.

The Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team competed in its first full season within the Superstock class of the FIM EWC, the FIM Endurance World Cup, in 2023. The staff, led by Team Principal Arnaud Sassone (FRA), is a collaboration between the French Tecmas Racing Team, Werner Daemen’s firm Motorcycle Racing Parts, and BMW Motorrad Motorsport. The Tecmas Racing Team has lengthy been profitable within the French Superbike Championship (FBSK) and had beforehand competed in chosen FIM EWC races within the EWC class.

Last yr’s Superstock debut of the Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team couldn’t have gone higher. At the season opener, the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the staff celebrated its first victory within the Superstock class with riders Kenny Foray (FRA), Jan Bühn (GER), and Loïc Arbel (FRA). The staff continued to point out convincing performances with the #9 BMW M 1000 RR within the following races as effectively. However, technical induced DNFs prevented additional prime outcomes.

Foray, Bühn, and Arbel will proceed to compete for the Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team this season. The line-up can be supplemented by Soomer because the fourth rider.

24 Heures Motos.

Prior to the season opener, there can be a possibility to take part in non-public check classes on Tuesday, sixteenth April. The 24 Hours of Le Mans race weekend begins on Thursday, 18th April, with free follow, the primary qualifying classes, and evening follow. The remaining determination on the beginning positions can be made within the second qualifying session on Friday morning. The race itself, the forty seventh version of the 24 Heures Motos, will begin on Saturday at 15:00 CEST.

In addition to the BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team and the Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team, two different BMW groups will take part in Le Mans: Japanese Team Étoile and Team T2C Racing from France. Both will compete within the Superstock class.

Quotes earlier than the season opener at Le Mans.

Marc Bongers, BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director: “We are entering the FIM EWC 2024 well prepared and with great confidence. Over the winter, our engineers, together with our technical partners, have further optimised the #37 BMW M 1000 RR as a complete package in many areas, from the power unit to the chassis and electronics to the exhaust system, brakes, and tyres. On the rider side, we have one of the best trios in the field with Markus, Ilya, and Sylvain in the BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team. Together with the experienced team led by Werner Daemen, they form the perfect squad to achieve our goal, which is to fight for the world championship title. Everyone knows how strong the BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team is, and now we want to take the next step forward. In the Superstock class, the Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team has already shown in the past season that it belongs at the absolute top. Over the winter, we have intensively worked on the technical side to address the deficits identified in 2023. Now we are looking forward to Le Mans – we are ready! Of course, endurance racing has its own laws, and a lot can happen in 24 race hours. But we are confident.”

Werner Daemen, Teammanager BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team: “Our target for the season must be to fight for the world championship as we do every year. Of course, in endurance you also need some luck. Last year, we had a very good season, we were on the podium in all three 24-hour races and finished in a strong sixth place in Japan. I think, if we can do the same this year, and if we maybe can win one or two races and stand on the podium in the other ones, then we can fight for the title. That is the main goal. All looks good, we are well prepared and the feeling is very good.”

Sylvain Guintoli (#37 BMW M 1000 RR, BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team): “We go into the 24 Heures Moto at Le Mans with a very positive mindset because we’ve done some testing and it went better and better. The most successful test was the Pre-Test at Le Mans where we all had a good feeling with the bike and also a good race rhythm. We worked for the race in all conditions, we are ready, and for sure, the objective is to win the race. We are going into this with confidence and the bike is behaving really well. For me, it’s a new bike this year and I am very happy with it, everything is going well. So there are big hopes for this race in Le Mans and for the entire season, but we have to think from race by race and now focus 100 per cent on Le Mans. I can’t wait and am looking forward to it.”

Ilya Mikhalchik (#37 BMW M 1000 RR, BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team):  “I’m looking forward to the race week at Le Mans and am pretty confident. It also looks that the weather stays dry and quite good. This also adds to my positive feelings. During free practice we need to focus on finding the final settings before we head into the qualifications and the race. But overall, we already have a very good base and I we will start from this and work on improving the small things we need to. I think that we will have good days at Le Mans. Let’s enjoy our progress and riding the bike and have great moments there. We can’t wait to start the season!”

Markus Reiterberger (#37 BMW M 1000 RR, BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team): “After the positive Pre-Test at Le Mans, we have of course set high goals for ourselves. We aim to take the next step this year and get even closer to our ultimate goal, the world championship. After the previous years we are now aiming for the top position. We are well-prepared for Le Mans. There are a few minor things we still need to improve, but we have everything necessary on board and will give our best from both the team and rider side. During the free practice sessions we will try to fine-tune the bike a bit more to suit us as riders and continue to adapt to each other within the new line-up, so that we can attack properly in qualifying and have a good, stable, and fast bike for all three riders in the 24-hour race with the aim of hopefully standing at the top on Sunday. It will be a long and tough race, a long, tough season, but I believe we are all in good spirits and have realistic chances.”

Arnaud Sassone (Teamchef Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team): “We really are confident. We proved last season that we could go and obtain the title. The performance was there together with the strategy. We only missed the reliability in the races at Spa and at the Bol d’Or, after we had pole position and the fastest race lap on both occasions. BMW in Germany worked a lot on the reliability and this should pay off. On the riders’ side, we did changed nothing and that is an asset. We know that we have strong team, a strong bike and strong riders, and our goal is clearly to win the FIM Endurance World Cup.”

Technical information #37 BMW M 1000 RR.

 

Capacity / engine: 999 cc, four-cylinder four-stroke engine with 4 titanium valves per cylinder and variable consumption camshaft management BMW ShiftCam, liquid-cooled, titanium rods, 2-ring pistons

Gearbox: Constant mesh 6-speed gearbox with straight minimize gears

Output: > 215 hp at over 14,000 rpm

Bore x stroke: 80 x 49.7 mm

Fuel system: Electronic injection, variable consumption manifold size

Tank capability: 24 l

Lubrication: Wet sump

Dry weight: 168 kg with out tank

Wheelbase: 1,450 mm (variable)

Length: 2,080 mm

Width: 538 mm

Front wheel management: ZF Upside-down telescopic CFK fork with pressurised damping system

Rear wheel management: Underslung BMW swing arm, full-floater central spring ZF twin tube monoshock

Front brake: Twin-disc Motomaster 320 mm, Nissin radial 6-piston callipers

Rear brake: Single-disc Motomaster 220 mm, Nissin 2-piston callipers

Wheels: PVM forged aluminium wheels, entrance 17’’ x 3.5’’, rear 17’’ x 6.0’’

Tyres: Dunlop

 

 

FIM EWC 2024 calendar.

twentieth/twenty first April – 24 Heures Motos Le Mans – France

eighth June – 8 Hours of Spa Motos – Belgium

twenty first July – Suzuka 8 Hours – Japan

14th/fifteenth September – Bol d’Or Le Castellet – France

BMW

Final preparations for the 2024 FIM EWC: BMW Motorrad Motorsport on the Pre-Test for the 24 hours of Le Mans.

Le Mans. At BMW Motorrad Motorsport, the countdown to the beginning of the 2024 season within the FIM Endurance World Championship (FIM EWC) is underway. With the two-day Pre-Test at Le Mans (FRA) this week, the ultimate section of preparations for the season opener has begun. It will happen from 18th to twenty first April on the identical venue, that includes the racing traditional 24 Heures Motos. The BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team, which is able to compete in 2024 with Markus Reiterberger (GER), Ilya Mikhalchik (UKR) and new addition Sylvain Guintoli (FRA), labored on fine-tuning the #37 BMW M 1000 RR for the 2024 season throughout the take a look at.

While the BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team with Reiterberger, Mikhalchik and Guintoli competes within the highest class, Formula EWC, for total victories and the title, the Tecmas-MRP-BMW Racing Team enters its second full season within the FIM EWC’s Superstock class. Like final 12 months, Kenny Foray (FRA), Jan Bühn (GER), and Loïc Arbel (FRA) will alternate on the #9 BMW M 1000 RR. Also current on the take a look at at Le Mans was BMW’s new addition Hannes Soomer. The 26-year-old Estonian will help each groups because the fourth rider within the upcoming season.

Additionally, two extra BMW groups from the Superstock class ready for the season opener on the take a look at. The Japanese Team Etoile is utilizing the #25 BMW M 1000 RR and Team T2C Racing from France is competing with the beginning quantity 2.

Reactions to the Pre-Test at Le Mans.

Werner Daemen, Team Manager BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team: “In the end, I think we can be very happy with the test. We know what to do for race week. For sure, not everything was perfect but it looks like we have found a good way. All three riders did a very good job so I think we are well prepared for the race in two weeks’ time and I have a good feeling.”

Sylvain Guintoli: “It was a positive test. We got a lot of work done and had all the conditions that we could get. We had rain and then dry and then rain again, so we did a lot of testing in the wet as well which was good. The pace was good in wet and dry for everybody so it’s looking good and we managed to find some interesting solutions for the setup which was the idea of these two days. We’re happy with the progress and now I’m very much looking forward to the race in two weeks’ time. Hopefully we can fight for the win; that’s the objective.”

Ilya Mikhalchik: “The test was quite tricky with the weather conditions but in the wet, we did not have a bad feeling and then in the end we had a few hours in dry conditions. That also went pretty well but we still have some work to do for the race weekend to further improve the bike. That will be our focus in the next two weeks. We are ready to fight again and will try to bring our bike to the top.”

Markus Reiterberger: “We finished the test in third place, and all three of us were within four-tenths of a second. Unfortunately, I encountered some traffic on my fast lap and couldn’t quite show my best but we are quite satisfied. We sorted out a lot and tried things during this test which is important for the race. It was also positive that we made good progress in the rain. All three of us were at or near the front in all conditions. Of course, we all need to keep working hard to achieve our goals because there’s always room for improvement. We have now identified everything, understood the new package for 2024, and the new team composition, and know which direction we need to work in to be at the front in two weeks. Many thanks to the team, and now we keep pushing!”

Motorsport

I Want This Aston Martin DBR9 More Than I Want My Next Breath

The early to mid 2000s was an exquisite time for sports-car racing, particularly for those who like GT automobiles. At Le Mans and past, followers had been fortunate to see among the coolest production-based automobiles duke it out. Corvettes, Ferrari 550s and 430s, plus oddballs just like the Saleen S7R amongst them. I do not wish to say that the Aston Martin DBR9 is the good of this bunch, nevertheless it actually is likely one of the coolest automobiles on sale at the moment.

For sale at Girardo and Co. in the UK, this is only one of 10 Aston Martin works automobiles, inbuilt 2006 and campaigned by the BMS Scuderia Italia Team in 2006 and 2007. Chassis quantity 9, this DBR9 nabbed 4 FIA GT podium finishes in its racing profession, and positioned sixth and eleventh in school at Le Mans in 2006 and 2007, respectively. Since 2018, it is loved a second life as a historic racer, and it was just lately refinished in its 2007 Le Mans livery, which celebrated Pirelli’s a centesimal anniversary. Hence the quantity.


Motorsport

The Rock Crawling Porsche 911’s Suspension Was Originally Developed For the 919 Le Mans Car

In December, Le Mans legend Romain Dumas was on the wheel of the extremely modified Porsche 911 Carrera 4S that broke the altitude record for wheeled automobiles. But Dumas isn’t the one connection this record-setting 911 has to the legendary 24-hour enduro. Its trick suspension was initially meant for Le Mans.

While a lot of this Carrera’s drivetrain is unmodified, its suspension has been completely redone, geared up with a system Porsche calls the Warp Connector. Originally created for the Le Mans-winning 919 Hybrid, it was shelved early on in that automobile’s growth and unused till this venture.

It’s not like the suspension system in some other Porsche.

How It Works

Instead of letting every nook function independently, the Warp Connector suspension goes in the wrong way, interconnecting all 4 corners for optimum traction. The entrance axle and rear axle are every related transversely to their very own centrally mounted springs and dampers. For the entrance axle, that spring and damper setup is positioned beneath the hood, simply in entrance of the windshield cowl. For the rear axle, the spring and damper might be discovered on the rear of the cabin, the place you’d usually discover the parcel shelf. 

Porsche 911 Rock Crawler Warp Connector Suspension Diagram

Above, a 3D diagram of the Warp Connector suspension supplied by Porsche.

The “connector” within the Warp Connector is the ultimate piece of the puzzle. It’s a stable bar that connects every axle longitudinally by way of a sequence of pivot factors. The bar creates a form of twist rigidity between the entrance and rear, so if one axle articulates a sure manner, the bar enacts a power onto the opposite axle, coaxing it to articulate in the wrong way. 

This means any upward power going right into a wheel — say, one tire driving over a giant rock — is translated into downwards power to the opposite three wheels. The reverse wheel receives its downward power by way of the centralized spring and damper, whereas the alternative axle receives its downward forces by way of the Warp Connector bar. The system’s interconnected nature means all 4 corners are performing on one another always, pushing one another to remain related to the floor under. The result’s a 911 that may preserve its stability over massive rocks, dips, and undulations. Here’s an indication of the system in motion:

Engineers have been hesitant to assemble a full-size prototype with such a drastically completely different suspension setup. So they constructed a scale mannequin first. 

“[The suspension’s] inventor came with the idea to build an RC model car with exactly the same system,” says Sven Schaarschmidt, chassis engineer for the record-setting automobile. “It looked a bit different than in the real car, but the working principle was exactly the same thing. We were able to play with the car on a desk, moving the wheels and looking at all the connections. It gave us an idea if it could really work in a big car.”

One query stays: If the Warp Connector works so nicely on this 911, why was it dropped from the 919 venture? 

“The problem was that [the 919 engineers] had a number of other issues to solve with the car,” Schaarschmidt informed Motor1. “To make it easier to analyze all the issues, They wanted to simplify the car and remove the system. Then the car was working so well that they saw no reason to bring it back.”

Porsche 911 Altitude Edith record off roader 56105
Porsche 911 Altitude Edith record off roader 56108

Porsche received’t say whether or not it plans to do extra with the Warp Connector idea, although contemplating simply how a lot area it takes up within the record-setting 911, viable manufacturing functions are seemingly few and much between. Still, it’s a formidable little bit of engineering that’s value highlighting. It helped obtain a world document, in spite of everything.

If we needed to guess, the Warp Connector’s reappearance would seemingly are available a motorsport software, seeing as that’s the place it originated, anyway. Race automobiles don’t want to fret about occupying a bit of further cabin or cupboard space, making it an interesting selection for competitors use. But that’s simply hypothesis on our finish.

News

The greatest pictures from Autocar in 2023

A second entry right here for the Nascar Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, this time at Le Mans. Max says: “There was so much hype around this entry, it would have been mad not to have taken the opportunity to get a big image of the standout team, car and garage.” 

Kia Picanto driving through Irish countryside – front

Jack was notably proud of the Kia Picanto snaps, having not shot many street journeys earlier than: “The tiny Picanto was dwarfed by Ireland’s incredible landscape. Shame the car wasn’t a brighter colour…”

Jeep Avenger driving through tunnel in Austria – rear quarter

There’s at all times a narrative behind every shot, as Max explains: “The stress of getting the Jeep Avenger up a mountain to an electric charger with 0% range left was an interesting experience. Once we were sorted and onto the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, the fog had set in, and driving through the mountain tunnel in dead silence was a moment to savour.”

NewsNew

2024 KAWASAKI KX250: FULL TEST

The 2024 Kawasaki KX250 is at a crossroads. While the KX450 has undergone significant changes, the KX250 has remained unchanged. This leaves 250 class enthusiasts with a challenging choice to make. Do they stick with the tried-and-true option, or do they take a chance and wait for potential updates?

SURE BET

In 2024, the Kawasaki KX250 offers a compelling argument for playing it safe. With the best motor in the 250 class and a history of ongoing improvements, it’s likely to maintain its position as the power king. The series of upgrades, including a new valve configuration, electric start, hydraulic clutch, and chassis enhancements, have made it a formidable contender. The additional features, such as the secondary injector and hydraulic clutch, set it apart from its Japanese counterparts. However, the absence of the Yamaha-like phone app for tuning and the high cost of the Kawasaki’s FI calibration tool are noteworthy limitations.

GREEN STREAK

To unleash the full potential of the KX250, an aggressive riding style is essential. With its unique character and aggressive performance, the Kawasaki demands an equally assertive approach from the rider. The rebellious nature of the bike, reflected in its distinctive sound and power delivery, requires a proactive and bold riding technique. Despite its bold personality, the 250cc four-stroke engine ensures that it remains manageable and not overly demanding on the rider.

While the couplers and launch control offer additional customization and performance features, the Kawasaki’s weight, handling characteristics, and suspension setup pose some challenges for riders, particularly those in the smaller size range.

The 2024 Kawasaki KX250F is priced at $8,799.

BIG BROTHER’S DUDS

The 2022 frame update, borrowed from the 450, doesn’t translate to similar handling characteristics between the two KX models. The KX250 has a more reactive and nimble feel due to its potent power delivery, weight distribution, and narrow profile. However, despite its lively nature, it is surprisingly one of the heaviest in its class. The suspension, which differs from that of the KX450, requires adjustments and fine-tuning to cater to smaller riders or different track conditions.

KAWASAKI CAMP

The KX250 stands out in the 250 motocross segment due to its potent motor, high-quality components, and rider-friendly features. Its distinctive attributes, such as the coned disc clutch, responsive brakes, and customizable rider layout, make it a compelling option. However, in comparison to its peers, there are opportunities for improvement, such as modernizing the engine tuning methods and refining certain components like the grips and chain to enhance the overall riding experience.

Ultimately, the decision to opt for the KX250 in 2024 hinges on the rider’s preference for a proven performer or the allure of potential enhancements in competing models. Despite its standout features and improvements, it’s important to consider the evolving landscape of the 250 class and the introduction of new contenders like the Yamaha YZ250F.

Source: Dirt Bike Magazine

Motorsport

The 499P Modifcata: Turning Ferrari’s Le Mans Winner Into an 858-HP Track Day Hero

The Ferrari 499P made history by winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2023, a feat not achieved by the brand since 1965. Now, the new 499P Modificata offers a chance for a select group of customers to experience a modified version of this race-bred machine on the track.

The 499P Modificata is not intended for competition, allowing Ferrari to make adjustments that would be prohibited under Le Mans rules. For instance, the electric motor on the front axle can now operate at lower speeds, giving drivers more opportunities to utilize the all-wheel-drive system, instead of only being active above 118 mph (190 km/h) as mandated by the FIA regulations.


Motorsport

Why the Second-Gen Ford GT was Created Instead of the Mustang for Le Mans

The existence of the latest Ford GT was not a guarantee. Originally, Ford had planned to return to the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2016 with a Mustang.

Ford’s decision to re-enter this iconic race came after the launch of the sixth-generation Mustang in 2015. This Mustang was designed to be a global vehicle, available in both left- and right-hand drive configurations. As a result, Ford began considering the possibility of using the Mustang to compete and win at Le Mans in 2016, as revealed by Ford CEO Jim Farley in a recent interview with Top Gear magazine during the debut of the Mustang GTD.