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2024 DAKAR PROLOGUE

The 2024 Dakar Rally bought underway Friday with a brief 27-km prologue that noticed Honda supported Tosha Schareina on high. There is usually a cat and mouse sport to begin the occasion, with riders hesitant to complete in entrance however unwilling to lose an excessive amount of time. This 12 months the organizers threw in some tough sections that value some riders time–amongst them Skyler Howes. With a forty fourth positioned end 5’10’’ behind his teammate Schareina, Howes occupies the final place within the Rally GP class. As a end result, the official HRC rider will probably need to open the best way tomorrow, which is an unenviable process for a stage introduced as lengthy, tough and complex to experience as a lone ranger. At least he will probably be very more likely to decide up the bonus factors initially of the particular, although this will probably be of scant comfort to him, leaving him little alternative however to go for broke.Before the race even began, Mason Klein was already dealing with main difficulties. His Kove race bike was caught in customs in Dubai till the final second. He rushed it although tech inspection after Kove mechanics did an all-night drive by means of the desert.

Mason Klein was minutes away from lacking the beginning of this 12 months’s Dakar Rally.
Ricky Brabec cruised to a secure thirteenth within the Prologue

Ricky Brabec: It’s simply the prologue however I’m completely happy to get by means of that and begin the rally. We’ll see how everybody chooses their place for tomorrow and hopefully we’ll begin in a great spot. The prologue wasn’t technical, nevertheless it wasn’t simple, the navigation was a little bit bit tough, trickier than you’d assume going by means of all these canyons. It’s solely the prologue so ending a minute and 20 seconds out will not be a giant deal. P13

Skyler Howes fell and broken his highway e book within the Prologue.

Skyler Howes: This prologue was actually not a very good begin for me, the group likes to play a bit with some issues they usually had some sticks that we have been speculated to undergo. There have been so many strains going by means of every means all through the open desert that it was arduous to see these sticks, I reduce throughout to undergo them, hit a giant camel grass that was clearly off monitor and had a extremely large crash, however fortunately I used to be OK. I broken the bike, misplaced fairly a little bit of time and it was arduous to experience afterwards as I’d additionally broken the highway e book so I needed to depend on following the tracks.
Then in a while within the stage there was a tough word, clearly I had no highway e book to confirm so I used to be roughly going round in circles simply making an attempt to determine it out. Finally I validated the best way level and was capable of proceed on however I misplaced about 5 minutes as we speak which is tremendous irritating and an annoying approach to begin the race like this. P42

Tosha Schareina completed on high within the Prologue, however received’t have to fret about opening the course tomorrow. Top riders are allowed to decide on their begin place.

Rider Standings

PROVISIONAL STANDINGS AFTER PROLOGUE

Pos. Rider Num Nation Team Time/Gap
1 SCHAREINA Tosha 68 SPA Monster Energy Honda Team 00H 17′ 35”
2 SANDERS Daniel 4 AUS Gas Gas Factory Team +0:12
3 EVAN BRANCH Ross 16 BWA Hero Motorsports Team Rally +0:19
4 VAN BEVEREN Adrien 42 FRA Monster Energy Honda Team +0:24
5 BENAVIDES Luciano 77 ARG Husqvarna Factory Racing +0:26
6 SUNDERLAND Sam 3 GBR Gas Gas Factory Team +0:28
7 QUINTANILLA Pablo 7 CHI Monster Energy Honda Team +0:47
8 PRICE Toby 18 AUS Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team +0:51
9 BENAVIDES Kevin 1 ARG Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team +0:56
10 KLEIN Mason 43 USA BAS World KTM Racing Team +0:58
13 BRABEC Ricky 9 USA Monster Energy Honda Team +1:19
42 HOWES Skyler 10 USA Monster Energy Honda Team +5:10
Motorsport

Dodge Promo Hints At Upcoming Charger EV Production Model

Tis the season for teasers, and Dodge simply supplied one nestled in a brief 15-second video. Don’t blink since you’ll miss it, however on the five-second mark, there is a drawing of a crimson two-door in a really festive setting. That certain seems just like the Dodge Charger Daytona concept, nevertheless it additionally seems a contact completely different to our eyes. Could this be a style of the manufacturing model?

We pinged Dodge and requested this immediately, however have been greeted with no official remark. All we now have is that this temporary view of a automobile dashing by the snow and a few useful nice print on the backside of the display: “Preproduction model shown for illustration purposes only. Available late 2024.”

Dodge Charger Teaser

It counsel we’re one thing new, and we now have an official timeframe of when such a automobile will arrive. There’s little doubt that is the brand new Charger, trying very very like the concept that debuted back in 2022. We see the identical aggressive sculpting within the hood, the identical sq. chin, the identical beltline. But one thing is completely different right here. Check out the headlights. They look spherical.

That’s much more attention-grabbing seeing as how the present Charger does not have spherical headlights. The Charger Daytona idea does not both, however the present Challenger does. Could this really be a teaser for the brand new Challenger? Or does it level to the Charger having spherical lights? Or, is that this only a blurry drawing of the idea that makes rectangular lights look spherical? We have many questions and sadly, they are not getting answered anytime quickly.


Motorsport

Listen To A 2000 Chevy Corvette Rumble Its Way To 172 MPH On Autobahn

Friends, we’ve become horsepower blind. What does that mean? In short, if a performance car doesn’t have at least 500 hp these days, it’s not a big deal. Perhaps this 2000 Chevrolet Corvette can help us reset our definitions, because it zips down the autobahn at 172 mph using less hp than many pickup trucks these days.

This is the latest AutoTopNL video, featuring a “modified” C5 Corvette with upgraded exhaust and a claimed output of 344 hp. That’s actually one hp less than these cars had at the factory, so we suspect the video lists the stock output of the ‘Vette’s 5.7-liter V8. In any case, it sounds mean as hell – raspy and burbly with pops, backfires, and yes, flames. It’s certainly modified, but if the changes are only to the exhaust, it won’t have much more juice than a stock C5.

Chervrolet Corvette C5 Autobahn

Seeing the car in action supports this theory. Back in 2000, Chevrolet listed the standard Corvette as having a top speed of 175 mph. That seems a bit off these days as we watch cars with considerably more horsepower struggling to reach that mark. But this is a 3,300-pound two-seater with pop-up headlights and a sleek profile. It doesn’t take quite as big a punch to send it through the air, and at full throttle we see this particular Corvette charge right up to that 175-mph mark.

Actually, we see it go beyond per the speedometer. 295 kph shows up on the needle before the driver lifts, though it could be an optimistic achievement. 277 kph appears on the digital readout to the left, which is 172 mph. Any way you slice it, that’s fast for a car with under 400 hp. And that brings us back to the “modified” bit, because this car doesn’t appear to have much left beyond that speed. It lines up with Chevy’s official stats for 2000, so you’re likely looking at a near-stock 23-year-old Corvette hanging with a plethora of modern-day machines from Mercedes-AMG and BMW M.

If an old Corvette with under 400 hp can do this, what might the new ZR1 do with double the power? We can’t wait to see that top speed video.

Motorsport

Electric Mazda MX-5 Possible But Current Batteries Are Too Heavy: Report

Mazda MX-5, known for being one of the last classic cars still in production, may be joining the electric revolution. According to a report, Mazda is considering the idea of electrifying the iconic roadster.

Kato Matsue, the powertrain development boss at Mazda, discussed Mazda’s electrified future in an interview with TopGear. The focus of the conversation was the possibility of an electric MX-5. Matsue acknowledged the shifting market demand towards electrification, especially in the United States, Europe, and Japan. He stated, “That’s a possibility. The MX-5’s main markets are the United States, Europe, and Japan. Japan is a bit behind, but the market demand is changing towards electrification. So we need to think about that.”


Motorsport

Short Mercedes Sprinter Camper Packs Bunk Beds And Bathroom In Small Space

California-based Big Bear Vans has transformed the smallest Mercedes-Benz Sprinter – the short 144-inch wheelbase model – into a compact mini-motorhome called the Santa Monica. Despite its small size, the Santa Monica is equipped with all the amenities of a larger RV and manages to create a spacious interior.

One notable feature of the Santa Monica is the dual full-size beds at the back. Instead of a raised bed with storage beneath, there is a permanent bed that can be electrically lowered or raised. When raised, the space beneath serves as a dining area with two benches and a table. The second full-size bed, slightly smaller than the one above, can be converted from the dining area and comfortably sleeps two adults.

Big Bear Santa Monica Mercedes Sprinter Camper Beds

There is also a second mini-dining area at the front of the Mercedes Sprinter. A small table on a swivel arm is positioned between the front seats, allowing it to be swiveled rearward for use in the second row of travel seats. As a result, this 144 Sprinter can comfortably accommodate four people for travel, dining, and sleeping.

Between the front and rear dining areas, there is a well-appointed kitchen with a deep sink, a single-burner induction stove, and ample counter space. The kitchen also features two deployable shelves, one for exterior use when the door is open, and another parallel to the door. Additionally, there is a full bathroom opposite the kitchen, complete with a toilet and tiled shower.

The Santa Monica comes with a 30-gallon fresh water tank (optional 40 gallons) and a 25-gallon gray water tank. It is equipped with batteries providing 600 amp hours of power (optional 1,000 amp hours), along with solar panels on the roof. Interestingly, the air conditioning system is installed below, allowing for a rooftop terrace with a hammock. The van also features a diesel heater that draws fuel directly from the van’s fuel tank to heat both the van and provide hot water for showers.

Although the specific cost for the Santa Monica floorplan is not mentioned, the starting price for a rear-wheel-drive model with a gasoline engine on the Big Bear Vans website is $147,200. For more information, you can visit the company website or contact Big Bear Vans directly.

News

MotoGP Aiming to Return to Hungary Starting in the 2025 Season

The current MotoGP season in 2023 has been incredibly exciting so far. With several changes already announced for the 2024 season, there are even more surprises in store as MotoGP has just revealed its plans to return to Hungary by 2025 at the latest. Dorna Sports and the Hungarian Mobility Development Agency (HUMDA) are collaborating to certify two potential venues that could soon host some of the most thrilling racing in the world of motorsports.

The objective of Dorna Sports and HUMDA is to obtain homologation for both the iconic Hungaroring and the promising newcomer, the Balaton Park Circuit. If everything goes according to plan, both MotoGP and WorldSBK races will be held at these venues in the near future. The Balaton Park Circuit is Europe’s newest top-tier race track, located in the scenic landscape surrounding Lake Balaton. It features a 2.6-mile long track with world-class facilities including a 48-pit garage and VIP lounges. On the other hand, the Hungaroring is a 2.7-mile circuit and is currently used for the Formula 1 Hungarian GP.

MotoGP Eyeing Return To Hungary Starting 2025 Season

The partnership between Dorna and HUMDA has a clear roadmap. Their main objective is to secure a slot for the Balaton Park Circuit on the 2024 WorldSBK calendar. Additionally, this circuit is being considered as a backup venue for the upcoming 2024 MotoGP season. Currently, the track administration, Dorna, and HUMDA are working together to ensure that all technical and safety measures are in place before the high-speed spectacle of MotoGP returns to Hungary.

The plans go beyond 2024, generating great anticipation among Hungarian MotoGP enthusiasts. The Hungaroring, renowned for its Formula 1 history, is set to become the host of MotoGP events starting from the 2025 season. This transition promises to bring a fresh energy to motorcycle racing, captivating fans with its unique challenges and picturesque surroundings.

Another interesting aspect of this partnership is the potential it holds for MotoGP and WorldSBK to gain new footholds in the Eastern European market. Hungary’s rich motorsports history, combined with its strategic location, makes it an attractive destination for riders and fans alike. Expanding the motorsports landscape in this region has the potential to tap into a vibrant and passionate audience, similar to what we have seen in the Asian arena, such as the Malaysian Grand Prix in Sepang.

Motorsport

2025 Ford Ranger PHEV Debuts With Up To 28 Miles Of Electric Range

Ford has unveiled the new 2025 Ranger PHEV, the first-ever plug-in hybrid version of the popular Ranger truck. Production is set to begin later this year, with deliveries expected to start in early 2025. It’s worth noting that Ford has currently only provided details for the European market, with no information about a potential North American release.

The Ford Ranger is currently Europe’s best-selling truck, and Ford is expanding its lineup by introducing a 2.3-liter plug-in hybrid system. This system combines the power of a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a small battery pack. Although specific power figures have not been disclosed, Ford claims that the Ranger PHEV will have more torque than any previous production model. While we don’t have the exact numbers, we can make some comparisons for context.


News

MotoGP: Over 140,000 Attend Misano 2023

The 2023 MotoGP season has been filled with excitement, thrills, and plenty of racing action for fans. The most recent round, held at Misano circuit, attracted thousands of passionate fans from all over the world.

In total, 141,056 MotoGP fans attended the event at Misano, breaking the attendance record set by Mugello earlier in the season. Mugello had 135,670 attendees when Pecco Bagnaia won for Ducati. The Misano round, which concluded on September 10, 2023, saw a total of 141,056 fans over the course of three days, with 21,688 on Friday, 39,944 on Saturday, and 79,424 on Sunday according to Moto.It.

 

According to the organizers, the success of the 2023 MotoGP Misano round was a testament to its incredible vitality. Misano, along with other international circuits in Italy, has established itself as a prominent destination in the world of motorsports. Italy is known for its passionate racing culture, and the success of MotoGP in the country has boosted tourism as spectators from around the world visit and book accommodations in Italy.

In addition to the racing, the Misano World Circuit, in partnership with Red Bull and Cocoricò, organized a special event called Memorabilia for the Riccione Club at Marco Simoncelli. More than 20,000 people attended the event.

Before the racing started, the Italian Navy showcased their F-35B and AV-8B Harrier aircraft with flyovers above the circuit. This was followed by a rock rendition of the Italian National Anthem performed by Giulio Maceroni and Alberto Saccani.

In the end, Jorge Martin claimed victory for Pramac Ducati, followed closely by Marco Bezzecchi for Ducati, just 1.3 seconds behind. Pecco Bagnaia, despite a major accident the previous week, finished in third place. It was a one-two-three finish for Ducati at one of Italy’s most iconic racing circuits.

News

Watch Two Short Riders Demonstrate Exceptional Mental Math Skills in Short Riding

If you frequent motorcycle sites, you might come across advice for short riders from time to time. Being a short rider encompasses a range of characteristics that may or may not be related to a rider’s height. For example, a 5’3″ rider with a 31-inch inseam will have a different experience compared to a 5’3″ rider with a 27-inch inseam (which happens to be me). The four-inch difference in leg length makes a significant impact when figuring out how to handle a bike for short riders. Other factors like arm length, hand size, and torso length also play a role.

These characteristics, although not talked about as frequently, can greatly affect how a bike fits a short rider. While longer legs make it easier to reach the ground, a longer torso may help with reaching the handlebars. Each of us has our own strengths and challenges to consider in the riding experience.

In a video from Bennetts BikeSocial, tall motorcycle journalist Michael Mann interviews Adam Child, a 5’6-and-¼” moto journalist, and Leonie, an experienced short rider standing at 5’3.5″. Michael, being over six feet tall, allows the two shorter riders to guide the conversation since he doesn’t face the same challenges.

Adam and Leonie provide incredibly useful advice for short riders. Seat height is one factor, but it’s not the only one. Seat width, suspension sag and preload adjustment, low center of gravity, luggage options, and control accessibility are all important considerations for short riders. They also discuss the mental calculations required for short riders, such as assessing the ground conditions when coming to a stop and evaluating road camber and foot placement. These calculations can vary depending on inseam length.

One conclusion reached in the video is that it’s now easier to find bikes that fit a wider variety of rider heights in 2023. However, there is still room for improvement. OEMs offering a range of seat height options is great, but it would be even better if short riders could try out bikes with low saddles in showrooms. Demo rides with low seat height bikes are crucial in convincing short riders that they belong on a bike and can have as much fun as their taller counterparts.

Another important point raised is the role of a rider’s confidence. By making low seat options readily available rather than special orders, more riders will be able to envision themselves on a particular bike. This is especially important for riders who learn through experience.

News

Watch One Rider Challenge Herself To Lift Her Bike 100 Times A Day

It can be challenging to find the right bike, especially if you’re a short rider. The challenges faced by shorter riders are different from those faced by taller riders. Doodle on a Motorcycle, a motovlogger, regularly receives unsolicited advice about her choice of bike and her ability to lift it. In response, she turned these comments into a challenge for herself.

Doodle had been wanting to incorporate strength training into her life for a long time. Setting a challenge to lift her bike 100 times a day allowed her to work towards her goal. During the challenge, she consulted experts and received feedback on her technique.

Every rider is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. Doodle realized that she needed to adjust her lifting strategy when she felt the strain in her shoulders and arms instead of her legs. She modified her approach and continued the challenge.

However, she encountered knee pain at a certain point in the challenge. To prevent further injury, she decided to scale back her efforts. She didn’t want to give up entirely, so she modified the challenge to meet her needs and abilities.

After completing the challenge, Doodle noticed a significant improvement in her ability to lift her bike. She now feels more confident in her ability to handle dropped bikes during her future road trips.