Tag Archives: quick

Speed Reads: Ducati Motocross Team Will Take The Stage In January 2024

Need a fast hit of motorbike information, however do not have numerous time? Don’t fear, RideApart has acquired you. Welcome to Speed Reads, our new roundup of bite-sized tales we thought you may discover fascinating. We’ll skip the long-winded intro and get proper to the good things. 

Check Out These Mechanical Models From UGears

UGears

Are you a hands-on type of individual, or do you might have hands-on type of individuals in your life who nonetheless want a cool motorcycle-related reward? We cannot make any guarantees about availability or transport, but when you have not seen the stuff that UGears is making, you must most likely test it out. The Moto Compact (wink wink, nod nod) mannequin even folds up as soon as you’ve got assembled it, similar to the real-life machines that impressed it.

The elements are pre-cut, and do not require glue to assemble. If you might have a great interest store positioned close to you, it is attainable that you could find these there (or that they will organize them for you). Otherwise, you may as well order straight from UGears on-line.

The firm presents its fashions in a number of international locations all over the world, and helpfully publishes its directions in 11 totally different languages (English, German, French, Polish, Spanish, Ukrainian, Russian, Italian, Japanese, Chinese, and Korean) so many fans can be a part of within the enjoyable.

UGears additionally presents extra mechanical fashions for plenty of stuff apart from the motorbikes proven right here, as effectively. For the DIY-minded, you’d do effectively to take a look at the UGears catalog.

MAVTV broadcasts that it’s going to broadcast the 2024 Dakar Rally within the US

As a part of its effort to showcase extra motorsports and powersports occasions, the MAVTV channel within the US proudly broadcasts same-day protection of the 2024 Dakar Rally. Beginning on January 5, 2024, the station will present one-hour every day spotlight exhibits from all of the day’s Dakar motion. They will run from January 5 by means of 19, 2024, first at 12 p.m. ET/PT every day, after which adopted by an encore later that night at 7 p.m. ET/PT. 

What does the wind scent like? Perfumier Jean-Pierre Sand desires to point out you.

Jean Pierre Sand Colognes

Fragrance maker Jean-Pierre Sand focuses on two issues: Development of scents, and collectible bottles by which to bundle these scents. The two motorcycle-shaped bottles right here comprise both the Wind of Freedom duo, or the Chasing the Wind Silverstone duo.

Duo? Yes, there are two scents in every bike; one contained inside every wheel, the truth is. The Wind of Freedom is on the market in your alternative of silver or black, whereas the Chasing the Wind Silverstone solely is available in silver. In each instances, you may discover that one bottle comprises a “Day” perfume, whereas the opposite comprises a “Night” perfume.

There are descriptions of the parts that make up every scent, however after all the one option to know for certain how the entire composition smells is to scent it for your self. 

BMW Motorrad Japan broadcasts 2024 BMW Motorrad Days dates

If you are a BMW Motorrad fan and you will be in Japan on September 7 and eight, 2024, you must head to Hakuba 47 Mountain Sports Park in Nagano prefecture. That’s the place and when the 2024 BMW Motorrad Days Japan occasion is formally scheduled to happen. 

Full particulars have not been introduced simply but, however the hyperlink in our Sources goes to the BMW Motorrad Japan web site, the place these particulars will finally seem someday in 2024.

KTM broadcasts Academy of Speed program for 2024

KTM Academy Of Speed

Are you interested by enhancing your abilities on the race observe? If so, then you definitely’ll need to study KTM’s Academy of Speed initiative, which it is bringing to a few world-class tracks in 2024. Dates at Salzburgring, Austria, Red Bull Ring, Austria, and Slovakia Ring, Slovakia will welcome 72 members per day throughout Rookie, formidable Amateur, and Pro ranges. According to KTM, this is not only a observe day; it is instruction and refinement of your abilities, prepping you to go to the subsequent degree.

There will probably be 24 locations in every group, and anybody with a KTM bike is welcome to enroll. Rookies and Amateurs get a one-day program, whereas Pro members get a two-day program. We’ll embrace a hyperlink in our Sources to search out out extra data and to enroll should you’re .

Ducati to formally current its 2024 Italian Motocross Championship workforce on the Campioni in Pista occasion in January

 

Are you carrying headphones? If you are not, go get them now. Then again this video up and watch it with the sound turned up. On January 21 by means of 23, 2024, Ducati will host its Campioni in Pista occasion, celebrating all of Ducati’s victories in 2023. Beyond that, although, it’ll additionally formally welcome the brand new Ducati workforce that may take part in the 2024 Italian Motocross Championship. Mark your calendars now.

Like your information in bite-size type? Be certain to examine again every weekday for extra. Happy studying and using! 

Speed Reads: KTM Parent Company To Move Production, Cut 300 Jobs In Austria

Need a fast hit of motorbike information, however do not have lots of time? Don’t fear, RideApart has acquired you. Welcome to Speed Reads, our new roundup of bite-sized tales we thought you would possibly discover fascinating. We’ll skip the long-winded intro and get proper to the great things. 

Red Bull KTM Factory Rider Matthias Walkner Will Not Race At Dakar 2024 Due To A Broken Leg In Training

Matthias Walkner - Red Bull KTM Factory Racing

Both Walkner and his teammate, reigning Dakar champion Kevin Benavides, suffered accidents sustained within the US whereas coaching for Dakar 2024. Thankfully for Benavides, his harm wasn’t critical sufficient to maintain him away from the Rally in January. While he did have to regulate his coaching schedule, that is higher than what occurred to Walkner.

“It’s been a really tough few days for the group right here within the United States. Training for the Dakar had been going extraordinarily properly, with all riders working very exhausting. Kevin broken his leg final Sunday, however fortunately, it wasn’t too unhealthy. We hope he will likely be again to close full health by Dakar,” Red Bull KTM Factory Rally Team Manager Andreas Hölzl started.

“On Monday, Matthias had a nasty crash while training, which ended up in him having several fractures. The surgery went really well, and they have attached a fixator to his left leg to help the recovery. But he will require more surgery, once the swelling starts to go down. Obviously, these two incidents have been a massive blow to the team, but we will continue to look ahead and do all we can to be as strong as possible for Dakar. The whole team wishes both Matthias and Kevin a quick and full recovery,” he concluded.

As it seems, Walkner broke his tibia, fibula, and in addition his ankle joint within the crash. Here’s hoping he heals as speedily and properly as potential.

Trackhouse And Aprilia Are Teaming Up On A Three-Year MotoGP Agreement

Aprilia Trackhouse MotoGP
Aprilia Trackhouse MotoGP 2

NASCAR followers possible already know the Trackhouse identify, however that is its first foray into the world of two-wheeled motorsport. Owned by former NASCAR and IMSA driver Justin Marks and his Grammy Award-winning enterprise companion Pitbull, the Trackhouse partnership with Aprilia will likely be a brand new independent team entry into the MotoGP field

“We are happy and proud to welcome Trackhouse into the Aprilia Racing family. What they have been able to build in a very short time in NASCAR is an extraordinary presentation card, which anticipates the potential of this partnership,” Aprilia Racing CEO Massimo Rivola stated in an announcement.

“This is thanks to Justin Marks and his team, whom I got to know through my long-time friend PJ Rashidi, and with whom we were immediately in sync both in terms of technical ambitions and marketing and communication developments in such an important market as the US. Our commitment will increase significantly, a responsibility we gladly take on because, I am sure, it will allow us to grow even more,” Rivola concluded.

KTM, Husqvarna, And GasGas Parent Company Pierer Mobility To Cut Up To 300 Jobs In Mattighofen, Among Other Changes

2024 KTM 790 Duke - Outside - Riding 6

In a discover to buyers dated December 5, 2023, Pierer Mobility outlined a couple of vital adjustments that it intends to make within the fast future. The discover bore the somewhat benign title of “Pierer Mobility: Strategy Sharpening and Guidance Adjustment,” however the contents appear extra consequential than the title would possibly lead an informal reader to anticipate.

The doc accommodates 4 key factors. The first one reads, “Focus on the core brands KTM, GasGas, Husqvarna, and MV Agusta.” Although MV Agusta will not be but absolutely managed by the Pierer Group in 2023, as you might recall, the company previously announced that plans are underway to gain a controlling interest sometime in 2026.

To facilitate the give attention to powered two-wheelers, Pierer is promoting off its two non-motorized bicycle manufacturers, R Raymon and Felt. According to PMG, the deal for R Raymon has already been signed and will likely be fully closed by the top of 2023. It will now grow to be an impartial model underneath new possession. Felt, in the meantime, is being offered to a consortium with a deal that can shut someday within the first half of 2024. 

PMG additionally mentions that it’ll revise its reporting construction into two segments: Motorcycles and E-Mobility. Importantly, electrical bikes will likely be reported within the E-Mobility class, together with electrical minibikes and stand-up scooters.

What is probably PMG’s largest announcement on this investor discover is that, in an effort to tighten its belt amid “unfavorable economic conditions in Europe,” the corporate plans to “relocate elements of manufacturing for particular person mid-range fashions and sure R&D actions to strategic companion Bajaj Auto, India and CFMoto, China. 

Along with this shift, PMG says it could minimize as many as 300 staff at its Austrian places someday in 2024. 

Watch Daniel Arsham Walk You Through His MV Agusta x Daniel Arsham Superveloce Design

 

The MV Agusta x Daniel Arsham popup at Perrotin Art Basel Miami will solely be open to go to by means of December 10, 2023. Since it is now December 8, 2023, you’d higher transfer quick if you wish to see it in particular person.

Whether you may make it in time or not, Arsham popped up on MV Agusta’s Instagram to supply some perception into how the bike was made. Although it ups the artwork quotient significantly, it is nonetheless a practical bike, simply with many customized touches. 

Did you’ve got the prospect to see it in particular person? Do you intend to see it earlier than it leaves? Let us know within the feedback.

Like your information in bite-size kind? Be certain to examine again every weekday for extra. Happy studying and using! 

Speed Reads: Check Out The MV Agusta x Daniel Arsham Superveloce

Need a fast hit of bike information, however haven’t got plenty of time? Don’t fear, RideApart has received you. Welcome to Speed Reads, our new roundup of bite-sized tales we thought you would possibly discover attention-grabbing. We’ll skip the long-winded intro and get proper to the great things. 

You Can Check Out The MV Agusta Motor x Daniel Arsham Superveloce For A Limited Time In Miami

Daniel Arsham x MV Agusta

If you are anyplace within the neighborhood of Miami, Florida (otherwise you’re planning to be) between December 3 and 10, 2023, it’s best to take a look at the Daniel Arsham x MV Agusta Perrotin Pop-Up on the M Building, situated at 194 NW thirtieth Street. It’s open from 10 a.m. to six p.m., so you may see Arsham’s transformation of a purposeful Superveloce into a completely new piece of bike artwork. 

Those acquainted with the Arsham Auto Motive exhibit on the Petersen Automotive Museum might even see an identical lens at work on this piece, solely on two wheels as a substitute of 4.

Motorcycle Sales In Spain Continued Positive Growth In November 2023

Motorcycle Sales Spain - November 2023

The numbers are in, and Spain’s Asociación Nacional de Empresas del Sector de Dos Ruedas (ANESDOR) reported modest progress within the motorbike and light-weight car sector for November 2023. A complete of 17,608 new motorbikes and light-weight autos had been registered final month, representing progress of 4.5 p.c year-on-year.

For the year-to-date, Spain’s motorbike and light-weight car gross sales now whole 211,494, which represents a 12.2 p.c improve over the identical interval in 2022. For reference, Spain teams bikes, scooters, mopeds, tricycles, and each heavy and light-weight quadricycles into this tally for statistical functions. 

Diving deeper into the numbers, gross sales of latest bikes rose 6.6 p.c, with a complete of 15,662 bikes registered in November 2023. Scooter gross sales rose 12.1 p.c, with 8,452 offered. 

The Harley-Davidson Museum Has A Slate Of Activities Lined Up For The Holidays

Harley-Davidson Museum

Looking for a bit vacation enjoyable with the youngsters (and the bikes)? The Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin is internet hosting two Breakfast with Santa occasions in December 2023. On December 10 and 17, guests to the MOTOR Bar and Restaurant will have the ability to take images with Santa on a Harley (in fact). Reservations are required, so be sure you verify the Harley Museum hyperlink in our Sources if you wish to be taught extra or make your reservation.

On December 12, 2023, Harley-Davidson Museum might be teaming up with Versiti for a vacation blood drive, with some candy Harley-related incentives for donors (and tried donors). The record features a ticket totally free admission to the Museum, a ten p.c coupon for the Harley-Davidson store, a free ice cream sundae on the MOTOR Bar and Restaurant, and a Versiti calendar.

If you are seeking to ring within the New Year with the MoCo and also you’re a neighborhood, all Milwaukee County residents can obtain completely free admission to the Museum on December 31, 2023. You’ll want to offer legitimate ID and proof of Milwaukee County residence. Also, purchases over $25 within the Harley store that day will obtain a free hat. (That’s fortunate for you, as a result of in Milwaukee on NYE, you will most likely want it.)

Jonathan Rea Gives A Behind The Scenes Look At WSBK Testing At Jerez

While Rea normally has a good friend known as Gaz who shoots and edits the movies he posts on his private YouTube channel, this day trip, he is doing it on his personal. If you are a fan of little BTS glimpses at what it is like throughout check days for a few of the top-level racers on the planet, then it’s best to take pleasure in this look into Rea’s third day testing with Yamaha

Race days would possibly make it look comparatively easy, however there’s plenty of work that goes into getting the setup good to take these lap occasions down and get faster as they go. We additionally get a small have a look at a Yamaha Booster e-bike that Rea makes use of to get across the observe. It’s a pleasant teal shade, similar to the teal used on a few of the MT bare bikes.

Honda Thanks Day 2023

As ever, we would like to embed that video for you, however Dorna would not enable embeds. So, if you wish to see Honda Racing Corporation luminaries from two- and four-wheeled disciplines in go-karts, in and on their race autos and placing on a present for the group at Motegi, you will must click on the hyperlink within the title of this part. It’s quick and candy, identical to this roundup.

Like your information in bite-size type? Be positive to verify again every weekday for extra. Happy studying and driving! 

Speed Reads: Honda Recalls H’Ness CB350s In India

Need a fast hit of motorbike information, however do not have numerous time? Don’t fear, RideApart has acquired you. Welcome to Speed Reads, our new roundup of bite-sized tales we thought you would possibly discover attention-grabbing. We’ll skip the long-winded intro and get proper to the great things. 

Royal Enfield Opens New ReOwn Certified Pre-Owned Motorcycle Platform in India

Royal Enfield ReOwn

If you are in India and also you’re searching for your subsequent new-to-you Royal Enfield motorbike, the corporate has a brand new platform out there for each consumers and sellers of every kind of licensed RE bikes.

Sellers can attain out to provoke the method, have their supposed bike evaluated by RE technicians, after which listed on the platform on the market. Buyers should purchase bikes by way of the platform, in addition to register for notifications when a motorcycle that meets their desired standards will get listed sooner or later. 

According to Enfield, every bike listed on the ReOwn platform is licensed, and undergoes a 200-point inspection course of earlier than it is given the go-ahead for itemizing. All funds and payouts are digital, and financing can also be out there. Check the hyperlink in our Sources if you wish to do some bike procuring, however remember that this service is just out there in India for the time being.

Former Moto2 and World Supersport Champ Randy Krummenacher Is Leaving MotoE To Do Endurance World Championship Racing In 2024

Randy Krummenacher MotoE

After only one yr within the FIM MotoE electrical motorbike racing collection, racer Randy Krummenacher has determined that it is time to transfer on. In his rookie yr (and presumably solely) yr within the collection, he got here in fifth within the championship. 

He’ll be transferring on to the Endurance World Championship collection as an alternative, doubtless racing on a Honda machine. However, in an interview with the German publication Speedweek, he famous that he could not say simply but which group it could be since issues aren’t completely closing.

Will he proceed so as to add to his multi-disciplinary wins tally? Only time will inform.

Honda India Issues Recall For All H’Ness CB350 And CB350RS Bikes Made From October 2020 Through January 2023

Honda H'Ness CB350 Right Quarter, Rear

Honda India issued a recall on all of its H’Ness CB350 and CB350RS fashions produced from the beginning of the mannequin’s introduction in October 2020, all the way in which up till January 2023. The concern pertains to rubber elements across the rear cease gentle change that would crack with use, which might in flip enable water to enter. Water getting in might trigger corrosion, which could then trigger the sunshine to not perform accurately.

Honda BigWing dealerships in India will carry out the recall service beginning throughout the second week of December 2023. Customers are urged to make appointments with their native dealerships prematurely, and may anticipate the service to take about an hour to finish. Check the hyperlink in our Sources for extra data.

Italy’s New Motorcycle And Scooter Sales Are Up By 18.23 Percent For The First 11 Months Of 2023

2020 Honda SH125i

From January to November 2022, the Italian bike market noticed a complete of 262,176 scooters and bikes offered. That’s not unhealthy, however from January by way of November 2023, a complete of 309,973 bikes and scooters have offered up to now. 

Sales of each bikes and scooters are up year-on-year, with scooter gross sales rising 21.22 p.c, going from 139,368 in 2022 to 168,942 in 2023. On the motorbike facet, gross sales rose 14.84 p.c, going from 122,808 in 2022 to 141,031 in 2023. With just one extra month to go in 2023, issues are wanting constructive for the annual tally.

What bikes have been the most well-liked in Italy up to now in 2023? Here are the highest 10, together with their gross sales figures, in response to the Associazione Nazionale Ciclo Motociclo Accesori (ANCMA).

  Make and Model Total Sales from January by way of November, 2023
1. Honda SH 125 11,674
2.  Honda SH 150 10,872
3. Honda SH 350 10,098
4.  Kymco Agility 125 8,086
5. Piaggio Liberty 125 ABS 7,598
6. Honda ADV 350 6,250
7. Honda X-ADV 750 6,115
8.  Piaggio Beverly 300 ABS 6,085
9. Honda Forza 350 5,058
10. Piaggio Beverly 400 4,760

If you are questioning whether or not we forgot the bikes, we are able to guarantee you that we did not. It’s simply that the top-selling motorbike hit the charts in sixteenth place, thus touchdown firmly exterior the highest 10 in gross sales. What motorbike was it? The Benelli TRK 502 and 502 X, which collectively have offered 4,057 items up to now in 2023 in Italy.

Harley-Davidson India To Show Off A Range Of X440 Customs At India Bike Week

 

We’ve already talked a bit of bit about the Rajputana Customs X440 that can seem earlier than the general public at India Bike Week, however that is not the one customized X440 that might be on show. Those in attendance (and people of us watching from afar on-line) can anticipate to see personalized X440s from Bombay Custom Works, TNT Motorcycles, and Old Delhi Motorcycles as effectively.

If you will be in Vagator, Goa, the tenth annual India Bike Week will happen on December 8 and 9, 2023, and is only some days away on the time of writing. 

Like your information in bite-size type? Be positive to test again every weekday for extra. Happy studying and driving! 

Speed Reads: First Royal Enfield Himalayan 452 Delivered

Need a fast hit of bike information, however do not have loads of time? Don’t fear, RideApart has obtained you. Welcome to Speed Reads, our new roundup of bite-sized tales we thought you would possibly discover attention-grabbing. We’ll skip the long-winded intro and get proper to the great things. 

Royal Enfield Himalayan 452 Deliveries Begin In India

 

New Bike Day is all the time a day price celebrating, and that goes double when the bike is as hotly anticipated as the new Himalayan. The first bike made its manner into buyer arms in Tumkur, Karnataka, India, within the top-level Summit variant, which comes within the Hanle Black colorway. The MSRP on this bike is ₹284,000 ex-showroom in Chennai, which is roughly $3,404.

If you are curious concerning the colorway discovered on the bike featured in all of Enfield’s pre-release promotional materials, that is often called Kamet White. It retails for ₹279,000 ex-showroom in Chennai, or about $3,344. 

Gogoro Rolls Out Electric SmartScooters and Battery Swapping GoStations In The Philippines

Gogoro Launches Smartscooters and Battery Swapping in the Philippines

Taiwanese electric scooter company Gogoro formally rolled out its electrical GoStations and scooters within the capital metropolis of Manila on December 1, 2023. Gogoro Philippines is a three way partnership between Gogoro, Ayala, Globe, and 917Ventures, 

“We are now witnessing a key turning point in the quest for sustainable and intelligent urban transportation in the Philippines. With Gogoro battery swapping, we are not only providing a convenient and eco-friendly solution for refueling but also embracing a lifestyle change that benefits our community and environment. We are proud to lead this charge and offer a glimpse into the future of mobility,” Gogoro Philippines president and CEO Bernie Llamzon stated in a press release. 

Indian Motorcycle Shows Off New Christmas Sweater

Indian Motorcycle Sweater

Motorcycle gear makers introducing holiday-themed items is not new, however we’re somewhat bit on the fence about this sweater. Sure, the crimson is about the identical shade because the one which Indian likes to make use of on lots of its bikes. However, aside from that and the “Indian Motorcycle” branding on the entrance of this bike, we do not get a lot ‘motorbike’ out of this sweater. 

It’s clearly meant to echo the visible sample repetition of a Fair Isle knitted sweater, however one of many biggest issues about these sweaters is seeing a bazillion dancing stars or teddy bears or bikes in a band sample across the circumference of the sweater. 

Here, we have got snowflakes, together with some pine timber that type of look a bit like tire treads if you happen to squint somewhat. Or possibly I simply want to scrub my glasses. In any case: Why no Indian Motorcycle fashions in profile? That would have been far more enjoyable, in my view.

Anyway, if this design appeals to you, it is obtainable in each the Indian Motorcycle on-line shops within the US and in Europe. In the US, the MSRP is $79.99. 

We Got Our First In-Person Look At The 2024 Triumph Speed 400 And Scrambler 400 X

 

If you are following RideApart on Instagram, it’s possible you’ll already know this. If you are not, although, you most likely ought to be. Then you will not miss out on enjoyable stuff like this sooner or later. Please be aware, these bikes might not mirror the ultimate American specs. Still, what do you assume from what you are seeing right here?

Right now, there are two pairs of Triumph 400s making their manner throughout the US for many who have an interest to see. They’re at present scheduled to start rolling into American dealerships beginning in January 2024.

Like your information in bite-size kind? Be certain to examine again every weekday for extra. Happy studying and driving! 

Speed Reads: Here’s When We Can Expect To See Ducati’s MX Bike Race In 2024

Need a quick hit of motorcycle news but don’t have a lot of time? Don’t worry, RideApart has got you. Welcome to Speed Reads, our new roundup of bite-sized stories we thought you might find interesting. We’ll skip the long-winded intro and get right to the good stuff.

Ducati to celebrate all of its 2023 racing successes with Campioni in Festa event in Bologna in December

Ducati Campioni in Festa 2023

If you’ll be in Bologna, Italy on Friday, December 15, 2023, then you may want to make your way to the Unipol Arena in Casalecchio di Rino at around 8 p.m. Admission will be free, so it’s best to arrive early.

Expect to see Ducati racing favorites from MotoGP, World Superbike, and World Supersport, along with guests of honor such as Francesco Bagnaia, Álvaro Bautista, Nicolò Bulega, Jorge Martín, and Marco Bezzecchi, as well as Ducati luminaries like Claudio Domenicali and Luigi ‘Gigi’ Dall’Igna. There will also be a DJ so come prepared to dance the night away.

The Italian Motorcycle Federation announced the 2024 Italian National Motocross Championship calendar, so here’s when we can expect to see Ducati’s MX bike race for the first time

Federazione Motociclistica Italiana - 2024 Motocross Calendar

The 2024 National Motocross Calendar starts the weekend of March 16 and 17, 2024 in Mantova. The Ducati prototype racing motocross machine should make use of the new Superquadro Mono engine found in the Hypermotard 698 Mono. It should be interesting to see how Ducati’s MX machine will be prepared for racing purposes and what other changes might be made since it has not been revealed yet.

Royal Enfield’s total yearly sales are up 13 percent worldwide at the end of October 2023

2024 Royal Enfield Meteor Aurora - Trio, Parked

Royal Enfield’s sales for models up to 350cc rose two percent compared to October 2022. The company sold 76,075 bikes in October ’23. For the year-to-date, sales of sub-350cc bikes have risen 17 percent, going from 413,410 in 2022 to 482,271 in 2023.

Models with displacement above 350cc saw a 13 percent increase in monthly sales for October 2023. Year-to-date sales in this category, however, were down by seven percent.

Honda Thanks Day 2023 To Feature Marc Márquez Anyway

Marc Márquez is listed among the riders scheduled to appear at Honda Racing Thanks Day 2023 on December 2 or 3, 2023 (exact time dependent on your geographic location). A livestream is planned on the Honda Racing YouTube channel. Other riders scheduled to participate include Joan Mir, Takaaki Nakagami, Ai Ogura, and many more.

Finally, if you ever wondered what it takes to plan the Dakar Rally, here’s a behind-the-scenes video to show you

If you’re into bite-size news, check back each weekday for more. Happy reading and riding!

Speed Reads: RNF MotoGP Drama, Goodwood Revival Moves To Sustainable Fuel

If you’re in need of a quick motorcycle news update, you’re in the right place. Welcome to Speed Reads, a roundup of brief stories we think you’ll find interesting. We’ll cut the long introductions and get straight to the good stuff. 

Illinois Loves Electric Vehicle Rebates So Much, Funding Ran Out In Just 13 Days

Illinois EV Rebates 2024

The state of Illinois Environmental Protection Agency reopened its popular electric vehicle rebate program on November 1, 2023. However, it received far more applications than anticipated within the first 13 days of the application period, depleting the $12 million designated for the program by the state General Assembly. 

The Illinois program included electric motorcycles and offered rebates for used EVs as well. The rebates were $4,000 for non-motorcycle EVs and $1,500 for electric motorcycles, with additional requirements for applicants.

The current Illinois fiscal year ends on June 30, 2024, and it remains uncertain whether the Illinois EV Rebate program will be renewed for the following year.

Indian Motorcycle Is Exploring New Ways To Keep You Warm In The Winter

Indian Wireless Heated Riding Gear

Indian Motorcycle has filed a patent for a concept that combines wireless charging technology with heated gear. The idea involves inductive charge points on the bike that correspond with points in the rider’s heated gear, eliminating the need for carrying battery packs or plugging the gear into the bike.

The company has confirmed that it is working on this idea, but the specific details on its release remain unknown.

The 2024 Goodwood Revival Will Be Run Exclusively Using Sustainable Fuel

2023 Goodwood Revival

For its 2024 event, the Goodwood Revival has mandated that all competitors use fuel that is at least 70 percent sustainable. The Revival will take place on September 6 through 8, emphasizing sustainable fuels and encouraging eco-friendly practices.

CryptoDATA, Former Co-Owner of RNF MotoGP Team, Threatens Legal Action After Team’s Dismissal

FIM, IRTA, Dorna, RNF CryptoData MotoGP Kerfuffle

The MotoGP Selection Committee announced that the CryptoDATA MotoGP team would not be invited to join the 2024 grid due to repeated infractions. CryptoDATA’s managing director has reportedly threatened legal action in response.

The future of the team and potential legal developments remain uncertain.

Honda Racing Corporation’s Special Video Tribute to Marc Márquez

Honda Racing Corporation released a touching video to bid farewell to Marc Márquez, expressing gratitude for his time with the team. Márquez took to Twitter on November 29, 2023, to share his struggles with compartment syndrome during the 2023 season and his plans for recovery.

Looking for more bite-size news? Check back weekdays for more. Happy reading and riding! 

Speed Reads: Yamaha Revives World Technician GP, Marquez At Ducati & More

Need a quick hit of motorcycle news, but don’t have a lot of time? Don’t worry, RideApart has got you. Welcome to Speed Reads, our new roundup of bite-sized stories we thought you might find interesting. We’ll skip the long-winded intro and get right to the good stuff.

Yamaha To Revive World Technician Grand Prix In 2025

Yamaha World Technician Grand Prix

Back in 2002, Yamaha established the World Technician Grand Prix to test the skills and knowledge of its thousands of trained motorcycle technicians around the world. It was held every two years until the global pandemic, which probably won’t surprise you. 

Technicians compete in different ways, and awards are given for different classes of machinery. In the past, there have been sportbike winners, as well as commuter class winners. Good technicians who can service all types of Yamaha machinery are encouraged and rewarded for their service.

The most recent Yamaha WTGP was held in 2018, but Yamaha plans to revive the series in 2025. To get to the World level, though, technicians must first compete at the national level. More information will follow, but expect Yamaha technician national championships to resume in the coming months.

Benelli Motorcycles Changes Distribution In US Market

Benelli at EICMA 2023

Up until recently, Benelli was distributed in the US by SSR, which also sells its own-brand bikes and recently began distributing QJ Motor products in the US, as well. However, Keeway America, which is a subsidiary of the global Keeway Group, announced on November 27, 2023 that it has now assumed distribution of Benelli motorcycles in the US market.

Keeway, which primarily sells small scooters and motorcycles in Europe, will also bring its own-brand lineup to the US later in 2024. It’s not yet clear whether Keeway will offer those bikes and scooters at Benelli dealers, or whether they will exist in different dealerships. 

The 2024 Benelli lineup should begin arriving in the US in Q1 of 2024, says Keeway America, which is located in Frisco, Texas. More information will be available in the coming months.

We’d love to embed the video here for you to watch, but unfortunately Dorna doesn’t go for that sort of thing (even though it’s on YouTube and counts as a view against its main view count for statistical purposes).

In any case, you should still click the link above and watch the video, which is just over three minutes long. What’s extra cool if you’re a big nerd like us is that there’s absolutely zero commentary or non-track noises to interrupt the experience.

Get your best headphones out and revel in the sweet, sweet music of that engine as you take in the still very new, very strange sight of Marc Márquez aboard a Ducati. Is that the tiniest of smiles we see on Gigi Dall’Igna’s face in the background?

Emilia Romagna Region Opens Online Flood Reimbursement Platform For Local Residents

Emilia Romagna, Italy

Back in May, 2023, the Emilia Romagna region of Italy was hit with devastating rain and subsequent flooding. It’s home to Italy’s internationally famous Motor Valley region, where you’ll find Ducati, Energica, Ferrari, Lamborghini, and more of Italy’s finest automotive companies. Both Ducati and Aprilia went on to donate money and host fundraising events to assist the beleaguered region later in the year.

If you’re a resident of Emilia Romagna, the regional government has now announced that its flood reimbursements online platform is now open for applications. More specifically, around 27 million Euros have been earmarked to help repair and/or replace flood damaged motorcycles and cars in the region. 

Those with vehicles that were scrapped due to severe damage may also be eligible for funds, as long as they have proper documentation of the scrappage. Up to 700 Euros are available for motorcycles or mopeds, while between 3,000 and 5,000 Euros are available for cars (depending on environmental classification). 

Requests must be made by December 31, 2024, but affected residents are encouraged to apply sooner rather than later, because the funds may run out before that date. We’ll include the link in our Sources to apply. 

Applicants must have appropriate Italian digital identification credentials via Spid, Cie, or Cns. 

Yamaha Is Crafting Limited Edition 1/6 Scale SR400 Tanks

If you, like me, get a special warm feeling in your heart when you see miniatures, then you’re going to absolutely love what Yamaha is doing right now. If you miss the SR400, you’ll love it even more.

After making that bike for 43 years, Yamaha decided to call it quits. Then, as the company says, enough fans expressed sadness about their favorite bike coming to an end that Team Blue decided to commemorate it with a tiny tank you can keep close to your heart. 

How to make it, though? Plastic wouldn’t do. No, no, Yamaha instead decided to use the same SPCE steel plate that it used when crafting the full-size version that actually sat on production bikes. From there, it replicated the same processes that it had originally used to make the production tanks, only on an extremely tiny scale.

You can see it all in the video. Don’t worry if you can’t speak or read Japanese, because the video doesn’t have any spoken (or written) words. It’s all production line, all the time, and it’ll put a smile on your face for sure.

Unfortunately for fans outside of Japan, it seems likely that the limited edition collectible will only be offered in Japan. Thankfully, watching the video is absolutely free anywhere in the world.

Like your news in bite-size form? Be sure to check back each weekday for more. Happy reading and riding!

The Benefits Of Driving A Car With A Supercharged Engine

Summary

  • Similar to naturally aspirated engines Supercharged engines provide quick throttle response and smooth, linear power delivery.
  • Superchargers are mechanically driven by the engine and work more effectively when the air is cooler.
  • Supercharged engines offer increased power and low-end torque, making them a cost-effective way to enhance vehicle performance.

Superchargers have been around for much longer than the automotive internal combustion engine. The supercharged engine was first built in 1878 but was later used in airplanes in 1910. The main aim was to compensate for the power losses at high altitudes. However automotive superchargers would not become available until 1923 first used in Mercedes cars. Since then, they have evolved from the less efficient blower style to the more sophisticated twin screw and centrifugal supercharger used in modern automobiles.

In the modern era, supercharged production has become less common in favor of turbocharged cars. Having said that, it still remains a very effective way of making power without having a bigger engine. Just like turbos, superchargers can also be applied on almost any configuration from inline-four cylinders to big V-12 engines. In this article, we will take a look at the advantages of having a supercharged car, how they work and the types of superchargers available.

RELATED: Supercharged Vs Twin-Turbo: Which Ford Mustang GT Is Quicker?

Article Sources: Supercharger manufacturers like Rotrex, Magnuson, Whipple, ProCharger, and automotive manufacturers and tuning divisions like MOPAR.

Supercharged Engines Are Similar To Naturally Aspirated Ones

One of the major advantages of an NA engine is its quick throttle response. Once the gas pedal is applied the car responds instantly with no delay in power delivery which is smooth and linear. The same power delivery applies to a supercharged vehicle, a supercharged car responds instantly and delivers its power in the same manner with no sudden surge or drop off in power. This is made possible because of how a supercharger works.

How A SuperCharger Works

A supercharger works in tandem with the engine, unlike a turbo which is driven by exhaust gases. Supercharges are mechanically driven by a belt connected to the crankshaft, this means they come on as soon as the engine starts. Once on, it forces cold air from the environment air into the engine which is used to create more power. Just like turbos, superchargers work more effectively when the air is cooler.

There are three types of superchargers:

  • Roots
  • Twin screws
  • Centrifugal

Roots: This is the oldest supercharger design with rotors inside that just trap air and send it directly into the engine. The pressure is determined by the amount of air being moved into the intake manifold. It is the least efficient form of supercharging and is the least favorable design. The roots superchargers are big, and bulky and stick well above the hood, they are mainly employed on old muscle cars and drag cars.

Twin Screw: This is the most common style of supercharger used in production cars like Hellcats, Mustangs and Camaros. These also have twin rotors that have a screw-like design meshed together. The air is compressed inside the rotor housing and sent through a smaller intake tube into the engine. This style of supercharging is more efficient and widely used among OEMs. It also creates a distinct whine which can be heard from inside and outside the car.

Centrifugal: This is the most efficient form of supercharging and looks very similar to a turbocharger. It works by powering an impeller which is smaller than a rotor and spins much faster. Impeller speeds can reach up to 60,000 RPM which is much faster than the engine speed which means it allows for much more airflow into the engine making much more power.

This style is famous among aftermarket tuners as it is used to build very powerful cars for drag racing. Most people commonly refer to these as Procharged cars because of the ProCharger branded centrifugal superchargers.

RELATED: A Used Flagship Supercharged V-8 Luxury Sedan You Can Buy For The Price Of A Camry

Increased Power And Low Down Torque

2015 Chevrolet Corvette C7 Z06 front
Chevrolet

Supercharging is an easy and cost-effective way to get more power from your vehicle. Adding one would give you an average power and torque increase of up to 45 percent from the standard engine configuration. Since most of them are already made with a particular engine specification in mind, they come complete with supporting accessories to make the installation easier. The biggest advantage of this application is a healthy increase in torque compared to an engine with similar horsepower.

Corvette Stingray Vs. ZO6

Vehicle

C7 Corvette Stingray

C7 Corvette Z06

Engine

NA V-8

Supercharged V-8

Displacement

6.2 liters

6.2 liters

Power

460 horsepower

650 horsepower

Torque

460 pound-feet

650 pound-feet

Transmission

7-speed manual/8-speed auto

7-speed manual/8-speed auto

Drivetrain

Rear-wheel drive

Rear-wheel drive

0-60 MPH

3.8 seconds

3 seconds

Top Speed

180MPH

195 MPH

(Source: Chevrolet)

Supercharged V-8 Vs. NA V-10

A good example of the effectiveness of a supercharger is the C7 Chevrolet Corvette. Supercharged versions make more power and torque than the base NA V-8. Even in the world of supercars, the supercharged Corvette makes similar power but much more torque than a V-10 Lamborghini Huracan.

RELATED: Superformance Ford GT40 Bridges Classic And Modern With Supercharged Power

Available Power Throughout The REV Range

Corvette Z06 engine
Chevrolet

The added power is always available from start to redline just like a naturally aspirated engine. There is no drop-off in power since it runs off the engine’s crankshaft. As long as the engine runs, the supercharger is always ready to deliver the power needed.

Power At Any Altitude

The biggest advantage of this powerband is felt at higher altitudes where the air is thinner. NA engines suffer from power loss at higher altitudes due to thinner air but the supercharger greatly compensates for this loss by forcing more air into the engine. This ensures consistent performance in every situation.

RELATED: A BBR Supercharger Can Give Your NC Miata Up To 300 Horsepower

Supercharged Engines Are Still Easy To Maintain

Mazda Miata
Bring a Trailer

This is one of the biggest advantages of a supercharged engine since they are mostly built with the capacity of the engine in mind. Almost any size of turbo can be put on an engine as long as you’re ready to build the internal components to match the power output. But superchargers have slight differences as they’re built with specific engine capacities in mind. This means before installing an OEM or aftermarket supercharger on a vehicle, the engine can already handle the power boost with minimal changes needed.

These minimal changes mean your car’s maintenance will likely be very similar to its naturally aspirated counterpart. There’s no doubt the maintenance cost will slightly increase but it is very similar to maintaining a regular engine since most components are still the same. Most OEM supercharged cars have base versions of the same engine and installing one later on won’t void your warranty when using a manufacturer-suggested supercharger.

RELATED: The Forgotten Supercharged Toyota Pickup That Dethroned The Dodge Ram SRT-10

It Amplifies The Driving Experience

Leaked Cybertruck Video Offers New Look Inside: What Stood Out

In a moment captured on video, the person holding the camera opened the rear driver-side door and provided a brief glimpse inside. The footage revealed that the backseat in the Cybertruck appears to be foldable, presumably allowing for additional storage space. However, the backseat also seems somewhat tight. This might be due to the truck’s smaller size compared to the original prototype. As a result, the backseat legroom may have been reduced in the final product.

Additionally, there is an infotainment system located on the back of the center console for passengers in the backseat. If it operates similarly to the system in the Model 3 and Y, users will be able to control features like temperature, entertainment volume, and Bluetooth. The video ends with the person filming demonstrating that the tonneau cover can be opened and closed using a control panel at the back of the vehicle. If the video depicts real-time action, the cover opens in approximately five seconds.

While it’s exciting to get a first look at the Cybertruck’s interior, it’s important to be cautious about sharing this video. According to Tesla enthusiast Jeremy Judkins, the electric vehicle company does not want the leaked video to spread and may revoke invitations to the upcoming Cybertruck event on November 30 for anyone who draws attention to it.