Tag Archives: problem

Motorsport

Hear Chevy Corvette ZR1 Engine Idle In Spy Video At Gas Station

Many people hesitate to buy performance cars because there always seems to be a new version just around the corner. However, that hasn’t stopped enthusiasts from getting their hands on the latest models. Chevrolet is now gearing up to launch another variant of its mid-engined Corvette supercar, possibly the ZR1, following the release of the Z06 and E-Ray. A recent spy video shows a camouflaged prototype, captured at a gas station in Colorado.

The vertically-shot walkaround video provides a glimpse of the test vehicle, which remains heavily disguised. The engine’s soundtrack suggests that it features the same 5.5-liter flat-plane crank V8 engine found in the Z06. To recap, the regular Stingray and the electrified E-Ray both come equipped with a pushrod 6.2-liter V8 engine positioned behind the seats.


Electric Vehicles

Why Electric Car Batteries Are Expensive to Build and Replace

One of the main obstacles with electric vehicle (EV) batteries is the gradual loss of capacity that occurs with each charge and discharge cycle. This is especially true for lithium-ion batteries, which can suffer damage due to the heat generated during rapid charging or experience a reduction in capacity when drained too low.

To extend the lifespan of your EV battery, it is advisable to charge them slowly and maintain a charge level between 20% and 80% whenever possible. By keeping your EV battery in this optimal range, you can prevent overheating and ultimately preserve its ability to hold a charge over time. This can help avoid the costly replacement of battery packs.

The high cost of replacing EV batteries, which can reach $20,000 or more, often makes it financially unfeasible for many owners. However, there are ongoing efforts by EV and battery manufacturers like Tesla and BYD to address this issue. These companies are working on innovations aimed at minimizing wasted space within EV batteries and integrating fuel cells into the vehicle structure itself. This approach seeks to reduce heat generation and slow down battery degradation over time.

Motorsport

BMW Considers Simulated Gearbox, Vibration Feedback For Future M EVs

Automakers are facing a challenge when it comes to electric vehicles (EVs). How can a car convey its actions to the driver without the sound and sensation of a traditional gasoline engine and gearbox? This problem becomes even more prominent for high-performance EVs that are meant for the race track. BMW M, as it develops its first electric model, is well aware of this issue and is exploring software-based solutions to address it.

Boss of BMW, Frank van Meel, recently mentioned to WhichCar.com that they are considering simulated gears, acoustic cues, and vibration feedback as methods for the M’s EV to communicate with the driver. Van Meel explains that drivers don’t have the luxury of looking at the speedometer when they are on the track. In a gasoline-powered car, the engine’s sound and sensation, the position of the gear shifter, and the rev indicator provide valuable information to the driver about the car’s behavior at its limits without the need to divert attention to the instrument cluster.


NewsNew

RIDING THE NEW BETA XTRAINER: THE WRAP

# RIDING THE NEW BETA XTRAINER: THE WRAP

The Beta Xtrainer is a unique and popular bike that stands out from the rest. It’s so beloved that Beta should consider selling it in pairs, so riders always have someone to accompany them. This bike is a 300 two-stroke designed with a specific price range in mind, retailing for $8299. To put it in perspective, the new KTM 300XCW sells for $11,449 and even the Beta 300RR is priced at $10,099.

![The Beta Xrainer sells for $8299.](https://dirtbikemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/XtrainerLFLOWRES.jpg)

The Xtrainer is presumed to use some less expensive components, such as suspension parts from a company called Olle, a non-brand name handlebar, and Shinko tires. However, it also incorporates premium parts like the Brembo hydraulic clutch and Nissin brakes. The Xtrainer is specifically designed for a different type of rider and riding experience. Its frame is slightly smaller than the standard Beta RR, with shorter suspension travel and a thinner seat. Additionally, the motor is tuned differently, resulting in a low-rpm, trials-like power delivery. This makes the bike ideal for extremely tight trails and technical riding, allowing riders to navigate small canyons and conquer rock formations from various angles.

![On the other hand, the Xtrainer doesn’t perform well when mixed with other off-road bikes.](https://dirtbikemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/XtrainerWheelfixLOWRES.jpg)

However, the Xtrainer isn’t suitable for track riding or hill-climbing with other off-road bikes because its motor doesn’t rev high and lacks strong acceleration. It features a handlebar mounted map switch, but even the setting with the rain-cloud emoji reduces the bike’s performance even further. The suspension is also designed for slower speeds, which limits aggressive riding. Despite these limitations, the latest version of the Xtrainer is more powerful than the original model, thanks to motor and suspension updates.

![The Xtrainer is an entry-level bike but offers impressive capabilities.](https://dirtbikemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/XtrainberRFLOWRES.jpg)

While the Xtrainer can be regarded as an entry-level bike due to its low seat height, soft power delivery, and comfortable suspension, it offers more capabilities than expected. In Xtrainer country, which refers to super tight and technical terrains, the little Beta outperforms cross country bikes, even those with a 300 two-stroke engine. It doesn’t matter whether you’re an expert or a beginner, the Xtrainer will help you overcome obstacles with ease.

Here are a few additional points about the Beta Xtrainer:

– It weighs 226 pounds without fuel.
– It has oil injection and provides excellent mileage on a single tank of injector oil.
– Beta officials prefer to call it the “Crosstrainer,” although many people still use the name “Extrainer.”
– Some individuals mispronounce Beta as “Beeta,” which is forgivable for British riders.
– Many riders express a desire to own two Xtrainers.
– The full test of the Xtrainer will be featured in the October 2023 print edition of Dirt Bike magazine.

![The Xtrainer is great for uphill climbs and tight trails.](https://dirtbikemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/XtrainerUphillLOWRES.jpg)

# WHITE KNIGHT

![Mark Tilley pushes the White Knight to its limits.](https://dirtbikemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/WhiteKnightBermLOWRES.jpg)

We had the opportunity to experience the “White Knight” this week, and it exceeded expectations. This bike combines a 2023 GasGas chassis with an early 2000s 380cc KTM two-stroke engine. It follows the footsteps of the “Dark Knight” project featured a few years ago, which featured a KX500 engine in a newer KTM chassis. Both bikes were built by Jonny Weisman, the owner of The Ride Shop AZ. You can watch the White Knight video [here](https://dirtbikemagazine.com/white-knight-gas-gas-380-project-by-the-ride-shop-az-full-video/), and don’t forget to read the full feature in the October 2023 print edition of Dirt Bike magazine.

![The White Knight may look clean and peaceful, but it packs a punch.](https://dirtbikemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/WhiteLstaticrfLOWRES.jpg)

# SPRING CREEK

![Get ready for a thrilling race at Spring Creek.](https://dirtbikemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/spring-creek.jpg)

The upcoming race at Spring Creek is set to be an exciting event. It’s hard to imagine a race in Millville without a Martin competing, but the show must go on. Here are the details on how to watch the race:

– Saturday, July 15:
– Pro Motocross Championship: Race Day Live
– Peacock @ 8 a.m. PT / 11 a.m. ET
– Pro Motocross Championship: Spring Creek National [LIVE]
– Peacock @ 11 a.m. PT / 2 p.m. ET

– Sunday, July 16:
– Pro Motocross Championship: Spring Creek National Re-Air [Moto 2’s]
– USA Network, NBCSports.com, NBC Sports App
– 9 a.m. PT / 12 p.m. ET

– Monday, July 17:
– Pro Motocross Championship: Spring Creek National Replay
– CNBC, NBCSports.com, NBC Sports App
– 11 p.m. PT [Sunday] / 2 a.m. ET

Below is a list of past winners in the 450 class at Spring Creek, along with their respective moto finishes:

1983: Bob Hannah, Honda (1-2)
1984: Ron Lechien, Honda (1-1)
1985: Bob Hannah, Honda (1-2)
1994: John Dowd, Yamaha (2-1)
1995: Mike Kiedrowski, Kawasaki (2-3)
1996: Jeff Emig, Kawasaki (1-1)
1997: Jeff Emig, Kawasaki (1-1)
1998: Jeff Emig, Kawasaki (1-1)
1999: Greg Albertyn, Suzuki (1-2)
2000: Ricky Carmichael, Kawasaki (1-1)
2001: Ricky Carmichael, Kawasaki (1-1)
2002: Ricky Carmichael, Kawasaki (1-1)
2003: Ricky Carmichael, Honda (1-1)
2004: Ricky Carmichael, Honda (1-1)
2005: Ricky Carmichael, Suzuki (1-1)
2006: Ricky Carmichael, Suzuki (1-1)
2007: Ricky Carmichael, Suzuki (1-1)
2008: James Stewart, Kawasaki (1-1)
2009: Chad Reed, Suzuki (2-1)
2010: Ryan Dungey, Suzuki (1-1)
2011: Ryan Dungey, Suzuki (2-1)
2012: Ryan Dungey, KTM (1-1)
2013: James Stewart, Suzuki (1-3)
2014: Eli Tomac, Honda (1-1)
2015: Ryan Dungey, KTM (1-1)
2016: Ken Roczen, Suzuki (1-1)
2017: Marvin Musquin, KTM (1-1)
2018: Eli Tomac, Kawasaki (1-1)
2019: Cooper Webb, KTM (1-1)
2020: Adam Cianciarulo, Kawasaki (1-1)
2021: Justin Barcia, GASGAS (1-2)
2022: Eli Tomac, Yamaha (1-1)

# NEW GASGAS BALANCE BIKE

![GasGas introduces the MC-E 1.20 electric balance bike.](https://dirtbikemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/GASGAS-MC-E-1.20.jpg)

GasGas has just unveiled the MC-E 1.20, a new addition to their lineup of electric balance bikes. This model features 20-inch wheels, 80mm travel front suspension, hydraulic brakes, and an aluminum frame. Starting from August 2023, you can see it in person at your local GASGAS dealer.

# NEW SHERCOS

Sherco has revealed their latest models. The 250 and 300 four-strokes boast new engines and other updates, including:

– 2024 graphics kit
– LED Headlight
– Front fender
– Front brake hose guides
– Frame color paint
– Aluminum rear sprocket
– Clutch cover with a new design

We’re looking forward to riding these bikes at the Dealer Meeting in August.

See you next week!

![Ron Lawson dancing on a dirt bike.](https://dirtbikemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/RonDancing-smallest-1.gif)

Entertainment, Technology

Why Peacock Doesn’t Stream in 4K (And Which Plans Support 4K)

Streaming 4K content on Peacock can be a challenge because not all 4K-capable devices are supported. According to Peacock’s Help Center, only some compatible devices can play 4K Ultra HD (UHD) content at the moment. This means you have to check if your specific device is compatible by looking for a 4K or UHD logo on the media’s Peacock page.

However, even if your device is compatible, finding available 4K titles on Peacock can be difficult. Unlike other streaming services like Netflix or Disney+, Peacock offers a limited selection of 4K titles. While any 4K content will automatically play in 4K, Peacock does not specify which titles are available in UHD.

Third-party websites like HDReport have compiled lists of 4K titles available on Peacock. If your 4K-compatible device still can’t play these titles in 4K, it may not be compatible with Peacock’s 4K streaming. Some viewers have found a workaround by manually selecting 4K resolution in their device’s settings, but this is not an official solution for all users.

News, Technology

FTC Proposes Ban On Fake Online Reviews

Fake reviews have become a significant problem, and the new rules proposed by the FTC may not be sufficient to tackle this issue. While it has been against Amazon’s terms of service for years to post false reviews, the company’s efforts to combat this practice by removing sellers and closing accounts have not fully resolved the problem. In fact, Amazon has taken legal action against companies selling fake reviews in an attempt to address the issue.

However, the new rules may fall short due to several reasons. Many companies that engage in buying fake reviews are based abroad and easily evade capture by reappearing under different names. These fake review companies operate on platforms like Facebook and Twitter, providing limited information and being difficult to trace and prosecute.

Moreover, the wording used by these companies makes it challenging to prosecute them. They typically ask “reviewers” to legitimately purchase a product with a promise of full reimbursement and request “honest feedback.” If the feedback is positive, the “reviewers” are politely asked to post it on Amazon or similar websites.

However, while the regulations may have limitations, they represent a step in the right direction. Fake reviews undermine Amazon’s business model and can result in customers being deceived. Furthermore, they harm legitimate small businesses that adhere to the rules and offer quality products.