Tag Archives: track

News

2024 Krämer GP2-890RR: The Latest Limited Edition Track-Focused Beast

Specializing in track weapons, Krämer has just unveiled the latest iteration of its renowned GP2 platform: the 2024 GP2-890RR supersport. If you’re looking for a remarkable power-to-weight ratio, look no further. The GP-890RR weighs a mere 313 pounds while boasting a claimed 138 horsepower.

Only 125 of these exceptional machines will be manufactured and sold globally. Each bike will also have a unique number engraved on the triple clamp. Now, let’s dive into the specifications while you prepare your wallet.

Engine

The 2024 Krämer GP2-890RR is powered by KTM’s liquid-cooled, dual overhead cam, 889cc parallel twin engine. It has a bore and stroke of 90.7mm by 68.8mm. The claimed horsepower is 138 at 10,100 rpm, with claimed torque of 100 newton-meters (or 73.75 pound-feet) at 8,200 rpm. The engine is paired with a six-speed gearbox featuring a PASC slipper clutch. An up and down quickshifter comes standard.


2024 Kramer GP2-890RR - Right Side

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Suspension, Brakes, and Wheels

The suspension setup on the GP2-890RR features a fully adjustable WP Apex Pro 7543 closed cartridge fork at the front, equipped with Krämer’s shim stack. At the rear, you’ll find a fully adjustable WP Apex Pro 7746 shock with progressive linkage. The suspension travel measures 120mm at the front and 140mm at the rear. Braking is handled by dual Brembo Stylema calipers and a pair of 290mm full floating rotors at the front, while the rear utilizes a Brembo P2 caliper and a single 230mm floating rotor. The bike rides on 17-inch forged aluminum Dymag wheels.

Fuel Cell

Krämer’s special design incorporates a molded plastic fuel tank that doubles as the tail section of the GP2-890RR. This unique fuel cell can hold 4.2 gallons of fuel while optimizing weight distribution even as the fuel level changes during races.

RR-Spec Electronic Rider Aids

The 2024 Krämer GP2-890RR comes equipped with nine levels of adjustable traction control, which can be switched off if desired. Wheelie control is also adjustable across five levels plus an off setting. Additionally, the bike features a pit lane speed limiter, adjustable engine braking, and throttle map. The dash features an AiM MXS 1.3 Race GPS unit with a data logger.

Other Notable Features

The 2024 Krämer GP2-890RR is equipped with CNC handlebar clamps that have replaceable tubes. It also boasts CNC machined adjustable offset triple clamps, available in either 26mm or 28mm sizes. Standard features include a Hyper Pro RC steering damper and a DID ERV 520 Racing x-ring chain. The fairing is made of fiberglass with carbon/Kevlar reinforcement and is offered in two paint colors.

Colors, Pricing, and Availability

The 2024 Krämer GP2-890RR will be available in a matte finish Brno Blue color or a Brainerd Black gloss option in the US.

These rare racing machines will begin shipping to customers in September 2023. Pricing may vary by region, but in the US, the MSRP is $39,995.

Motorsport

BMW’s Automated Driving Testing Facility is Now Open

BMW has recently unveiled its largest testing facility, a 1,400-acre site in Sokolov, Czech Republic, dedicated to the advancement of automated driving technologies. This Future Mobility Development Center aims to transform the former mining region into a technology hub. The inauguration ceremony was attended by local officials and Frank Weber, BMW Group’s Board Member for Development.

The test site, which required an investment of approximately $330 million, already employs over 100 skilled workers. BMW claims that the Sokolov facility offers ideal conditions for both simulated and real-world testing of automated driving systems. It joins BMW’s other testing sites located in Aschheim near Munich, Miramas in France, and Arjeplog in Sweden.


News

McLaren Solus GT: 830bhp V10-powered monster tops Shootout

All 25 units of the McLaren Solus GT, an extreme track machine with a price tag of over £3 million each, have already been sold. Owners will also receive a travel case for transporting the car to events organized by McLaren.

The CEO of McLaren Automotive, Michael Leiters, described the Solus GT as a realization of a radical concept vehicle originally designed for virtual racing. He emphasized that the car was engineered without any restrictions and represents McLaren’s pioneering spirit.

These engineering freedoms influenced the design of the Solus GT. It features various aerodynamic elements, including a wide front splitter, ground-effect venturi tunnels in the structural floor, a fixed high-downforce rear wing, and individual wheel pods.

Mclaren solusgt front

According to McLaren, the wheel pods help reduce weight and control airflow, minimizing turbulence and pressure build-up in the wheel well. They also serve as reference points for the driver when positioning the car on the track.

The Solus GT features double-wishbone suspension arms at the front and back, similar to those used in Formula 1. These arms are enclosed in aerodynamic carbon fiber shrouds.

Motorsport

Stunning One-Off Ferrari KC23 Makes Spectacular Debut At Goodwood

Ferrari is known for producing special one-off performance vehicles for its most loyal clients in addition to its regular road and track cars. One of the most notable examples is the KC23, which made its debut at Goodwood this week.

The KC23 is based on the Ferrari 488 GT3 but boasts a radical and unique design. It features butterfly doors and styling elements inspired by the Vision Gran Turismo and the 499P endurance hypercar, which won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in June. The car has a silver metallic finish called Gold Mercury, which incorporates liquid metal in four layers of paint, giving it a striking mirror-like sheen.

Aside from its distinctive design and paint job, the KC23 also includes motorized air intakes and body panels that adjust based on the engine’s temperature. The rear wing is removable, allowing for additional downforce during track days, or it can be taken off to showcase the car’s pure form in a garage.

Join owners and enthusiasts discussing this topic at FerrariChat.com!


News

McLaren introduces the track-only Solus GT, powered by an 830bhp V10 engine

McLaren has unveiled an exclusive track car called the Solus GT, which is based on a virtual video game concept. This single-seat vehicle is equipped with a naturally aspirated V10 engine that produces over 830bhp. The car made its public debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed and features a visually striking carbon fibre design, enclosed wheels, and a large rear wing. With a unique monocoque chassis, the Solus GT weighs less than 1000kg but generates 1200kg of downforce. Originally created for the Gran Turismo Sport video game, the car has now been revealed in its production form at the Monterey Car Week in California.

What sets the Solus GT apart is its 5.2-litre V10 engine, making it the first McLaren customer car to have such an engine configuration. This powerplant can rev up to 10,000rpm and delivers more than 830bhp and 479lb ft of torque. Power is transmitted through a bespoke seven-speed sequential gearbox, allowing the car to accelerate from 0 to 62mph in just 2.5 seconds. McLaren claims that the top speed surpasses 200mph.

The driver sits in a centrally mounted, enclosed cabin, which can be accessed through a sliding canopy like that of a jet plane. Inside, a fixed seat tailored to the owner’s specifications is installed. The car also features a carbon fibre steering wheel inspired by Formula 1 and a digital rear-view display. Each of the 25 units of the Solus GT has already been sold for more than £3 million. In addition to the car, owners will receive a travel case specifically designed for transporting the vehicle to various events around the world, including events organized by McLaren for Solus owners.

“The McLaren Solus GT is the embodiment of a revolutionary McLaren concept vehicle originally designed for virtual racing,” said Michael Leiters, the new CEO of McLaren Automotive.

News

Lausitzring To Host FIM Record Attempts In September

The renowned German Lausitzring track, owned by Dekra, a specialized German entity focusing on homologations and certifications, is preparing to become the center of attention for racing enthusiasts around the world. This complex, which includes a conventional circuit, triangular oval, and a vast oval with remarkable cambers, will host the highly anticipated FIM Records attempts in short-distance racing from September 21 to 24, 2023.

This event is organized by SwissPerformance, a prominent event promoter, with the support of the German Federation (DMSB). The Lausitzring event will conclude an extensive program of attempts, with previous events held on August 16 at the picturesque Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia and on August 27 at the legendary Bonneville salt lake in the United States.

The visionary owner of SwissPerformance, Rudolf Steck, emphasized the significance of the Lausitzring event, particularly for European teams with more modest budgets. “The European venue allows teams from Europe to participate with more modest budgets since the cost of travel, technical infrastructure, and accommodation is a fraction of the cost of events outside of Europe,” Steck explained—translated from Italian. Steck further envisions this event evolving into an annual European tradition, expanding steadily as a compelling alternative to overseas events.


Bonneville Salt Flats In Jeopardy

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One of the key advantages of choosing the Lausitzring as the event venue is the unique opportunity it offers to spectators. Unlike natural surfaces such as the Bonneville salt flats or the Uyuni salt flats, which have inherent security restrictions and lack barriers, the Lausitzring provides an unparalleled viewing experience. Spectators will have the rare chance to witness the racing action up close, bringing them closer to the thrills, high speeds, and the technical prowess and practical ingenuity required to achieve a prestigious FIM Speed Record.

The proximity to the racing action promises to be a draw for fans and competitors alike, fostering a greater appreciation for the sport and attracting a wider audience.

With its blend of thrilling racing, technical expertise, and proximity to the action, the FIM Record attempts at the Lausitzring are set to captivate racing enthusiasts and showcase the pinnacle of speed and skill. As September approaches, anticipation grows for this exceptional event, destined to leave an indelible mark on the motorsports landscape.

Motorsport

Ferrari SF90 XX Stradale And Spider Debut Making 1,016 HP

Ferrari has introduced the SF90 XX Stradale and SF90 XX Spider, two high-performance models that can be driven on public roads. Unlike Ferrari’s previous XX models, which were exclusively for the track, these new models are designed for both on-road and track use. However, they will be produced in limited quantities, with only 799 hardtops and 599 droptops being made.

Mechanical Upgrades

Both the SF90 XX Stradale and SF90 XX Spider are equipped with a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine which is supplemented by three electric motors. Two of the electric motors are placed on the front axle, while the third is located between the engine and the transmission. This powertrain configuration allows for a total output of 1,016 horsepower, an increase from the standard SF90 Stradale’s 986 horsepower.


News

French Gear Label Ixon Presents The Vortex GL Racing Gloves

Riding on the street and riding on the track require different gear to optimize performance and protection. French brand Ixon has released its newest race-spec gloves called the Vortex GL, designed with technology from MotoGP. These gloves are favored by top racers like Alexi Espargaro, Miguel Oliveira, and Takaaki Nakagami.

Franch Gear Label Ixon Presents The Vortex GL Racing Gloves

The Vortex GL gloves have a full gauntlet design suitable for the track and are designed to keep hands cool in hot weather. They feature lightweight and durable goatskin panels that offer excellent tactile response. The gloves have pre-shaped hand construction to reduce fatigue and accelerate the break-in process. They also have ventilation through perforations in the leather and an internal mesh lining with moisture-wicking properties.

In terms of safety, the Vortex GL gloves have top-shelf features including reinforced leather on the palm, aramid fiber reinforcements at the back of the hand and fingers, a TPR palm slider, and extra TPR protection on the cuff. The joints and fingers have overmolded reinforcements with ventilation for added comfort. These gloves are certified under the EN13594:2015 Level 1KP standard for personal protective equipment.

The Vortex GL gloves provide comfort with a partially elastic Velcro tab on the wrist, a double-Velcro system to tighten the cuff, and a pull-on tab for easy wearing. The index finger even has a tactile insert for using touchscreen devices. These gloves are available in three colors – black, black/white, black/white/red, and sizes ranging from XS to 3XL. The retail price is 259.90 Euros or about $284 USD.

Franch Gear Label Ixon Presents The Vortex GL Racing Gloves
ToyotaUk

Toyota Racing’s Antron Brown Is Focused on the Next Generation

The National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) is home to many well-known drivers, with Antron Brown being one of them. Brown is a Team Toyota motorsports driver who has been with them for 16 years now. He also became the first African-American driver in history to win a major auto racing championship in the United States in 2012, claiming the NHRA Top Fuel series title.

In 2022, Brown created his own team, AB Motorsports, after spending several years with Don Schumacher Racing. Last year, his team finished second in its debut season. Brown is proud of all they have accomplished, and his plan is to continue building something special.

Trademarks shown are those of their respective owners

How Hard Work Pays Off

Antron Brown comes from a family that instilled the values of hard work and dedication from a young age. For as long as he can remember, he has watched his family run a family-owned septic business, and it has been his grandfather’s practice to give them everything they needed as long as they worked for it.

While Brown was already familiar with drag racing due to his father and uncle’s passion for it, he was initially not interested in pursuing this career. Instead, Brown wanted to race in motocross, even though he was not fond of how much time drag racers spend on making modifications to their vehicles instead of actually driving them. However, as he grew older and gained more driving experience, his initial distaste for drag racing turned into a newfound appreciation for the sport.

Shaping the Future of Drag Racing through AB Motorsports

As AB Motorsports’ owner and driver, Antron Brown is focused on creating a legacy that will last for years to come. He is heavily invested in bringing young talent into the sport, thereby ensuring its continued development. To that end, he has introduced his own children to drag racing through the NHRA Jr. Drag Racing series, in which children as young as five years old can drive half-scale dragsters.

Brown believes that it is essential to cultivate more racers earlier in order to attract new fans to the sport. He is dedicated to identifying talented young racers and has made it his mission through ABM to give them a chance to pursue their passion for drag racing.

“It really gets me pumped up when I can see somebody that has passion and that want-to,” Brown says. “That’s something you can’t instill in people. And I see it every day in those junior dragster ranks.”