Tag Archives: Wheels

Feast Your Eyes On The Aprilia RS-GP24 MotoGP Race Bike

MotoGP machines signify the top of know-how in terms of efficiency on this planet of two wheels. As such, when a brand new mannequin is launched and able to hit the race monitor, it’s no shock that it’s fairly a giant deal. A whole lot of work goes on through the winter months as race groups put together for the upcoming season. From all the info gathered within the earlier season, machines are tweaked, upgraded, and improved lal inside MotoGP’s strict pointers, after which extensively examined for the upcoming season.

We noticed this with Aprilia, when it carried out testing on its up to date race bike at Sepang. Back then, the bike was draped in an all-black livery to cover as a lot of the main points as doable. Now, nonetheless, the 2024 race bike, dubbed the RS-GP24, has been unveiled in all its glory. Aprilia has been making strides in MotoGP lately, and now hopes that 2024 shall be its greatest season but. The RS-GP24 represents the fruits of the Italian firm’s technological capabilities, whereas on the identical time demonstrating the model’s drive for innovation.

Aprilia RS-GP24 - Left Side

Aprilia RS-GP24 – Left Side

The Aprilia Racing Division, headed by Romano Albesiano, made various technical revisions to the RS-GP, and within the firm’s official press launch, Albesiano defined that the bike was already a potent platform, and that the staff labored in direction of making what was already good even higher. “The RS-GP is a mature project, faithful to the Aprilia philosophy, which we have sought to advance in every aspect. The aerodynamic study is perhaps the clearest. We introduced a few concepts that are definitely innovative in order to improve the load and penetration characteristics. But every detail has been revisited, as must be done in a championship which has placed technological research at unprecedented levels.”

The title of the sport for 2024 is superior aerodynamics, and it’s straightforward to see this from the bodywork of the bike alone. For 2024, the RS-GP24 will get wild winglets up entrance, in addition to a completely enclosed fairing that doesn’t even let the engine peek out a tiny bit. The exhaust system now exits on the tail of the bike, with much more bodywork concealing the exhaust pipes. Meanwhile, over on the tail, there is a small spoiler that juts upward. On the facet of the bike, massive covers might be seen on both facet of the rear wheel, whereas up entrance, massive ducts suck in air and funky down the brakes.

Aleix Espargaro, who has been with Aprilia for seven years, and is coming into his eight yr alongside the Noale producer this season, expressed pleasure in direction of the brand new and improved bike. “I’m proud to be a part of this undertaking which I’ve at all times thought of to be my second household. In 2024, we’ll make one other step ahead. Last yr we had been missing the consistency to battle all the way in which to the top, however we nonetheless demonstrated that we’re a tricky rival for everybody. It gained’t be easy as a result of, even when it appeared not possible, the extent in MotoGP has elevated much more. I really feel like I’m prepared – bodily and mentally – and I imagine within the work that the Aprilia employees has carried out.”

Aprilia RS-GP24 - Maverick Vinales

Aprilia RS-GP24 – Maverick Vinales

Aprilia RS-GP24 - Aleix Espargaro

Aprilia RS-GP24 – Aleix Espargaro

Meanwhile, Maverick Viñales defined that he underwent a rigorous coaching regiment over the winter, within the hopes of delivering a stellar efficiency within the 2024 season. “During the winter break I skilled like mad and I think about Aprilia Racing’s work. If we proceed to set the objective of compacting essentially the most out of our technical package deal each weekend, the outcomes will comply with naturally. The first assessments confirmed the extraordinarily excessive stage of the championship. Practically each rider and each bike on the grid have the potential to battle for the rostrum. This makes the problem much more intriguing.”

 

Joining the staff for 2024, Miguel Oliveira makes the change to Aprilia through the Trackhouse racing staff. He’ll even be aboard a brand new RS-GP24. Raúl Fernández, additionally a part of the Trackhouse staff, shall be racing aboard the Aprilia RS-GP, as effectively, however with a 2023-spec bike that shall be upgraded to satisfy the efficiency metrics because the 2024 mannequin.

Aprilia RS-GP24 - Right Front Quarter

Aprilia RS-GP24 – Right Front Quarter

Aprilia RS-GP24 - Left Front Quarter

Aprilia RS-GP24 – Left Front Quarter

Theives Gouged Out This Poor Porsche Taycan’s Headlights

People steal issues from vehicles on a regular basis. Whether it is the wheels, the catalytic converters, the radio, or simply stuff from the inside, it occurs on a regular basis. In the case of this Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo, the thieves determined to steal the headlights. Reddit consumer No_Supermarket9751 posted pictures of the weird crime that occurred to his buddy, and the tip result’s oddly disturbing.

The incident occurred on Monday evening in Düsseldorf, Germany, No_Supermarket9751 advised Motor1. The Porsche was parked on the street, and the thieves used tin snips to chop into the fenders for entry to disconnect the lamps. The poor Taycan appears prefer it simply obtained completed fist-fighting a can opener.

 

No_Supermarket9751 mentioned his buddy alerted the police, and the crime is underneath investigation.

This Taycan is clearly out of fee till the headlights are changed the physique harm is mounted. Depending on which lighting choices have been outfitted from the manufacturing unit, the headlight assemblies can value between $2,829.43 and $3,602.11, and the management modules are $373.49 to $889.32. There’s additionally a $325.39 motor for every mild. The fenders are $652.96 each. Plus, they have to be painted and mounted. This goes to be an costly restore.

This is not the primary time thieves have focused the Taycan’s headlights. While researching this story, we discovered a discussion board matter about thieves taking the headlights from a Taycan in 2021. It additionally occurred to another Porsche in 2020, in line with a Reddit put up. So when you park a Taycan on the road, preserve an eye fixed out. 

£15k heroes: What is Britain’s greatest low cost automotive?

How a lot does a brand new automotive price these days? Any automotive will do: transport, freedom, 4 wheels, an engine and a few seats. After the couple of years we’ve simply had, I wouldn’t blame anybody who wanted to look it up.

At the top of 2019, the reply was lower than £8000. There was a Vauxhall Corsa on the worth listing for lower than £12,000, a Ford Focus for lower than £20,000 and a BMW 3 Series for little greater than £30,000. Now take a look at us. In one other 4 years, who is aware of what a worth supermini may cost a little – or if you’ll nonetheless be capable of purchase one in any respect.

If you want low cost, easy, versatile and environment friendly motoring, then, now could be time to safe some. And if you’re questioning what’s inside attain – assuming that you just need to spend round £15,000 in money or £200 per thirty days on a typical private finance scheme (10% down, a three-year time period and a conspicuously excessive rate of interest: you already know the drill) – you is likely to be stunned how few the choices already are.

There are solely eight vehicles left on the UK market at that worth or beneath it – and we’ve bought 5 of them proper right here.

Unfortunately, Fiat’s UK distributor doesn’t have any Panda demonstrators proper now, Volkswagen’s doesn’t preserve any Ups and we didn’t assume it price together with two barely completely different Dacias in the identical take a look at only for the sake of completeness.

So it’s the Citroën C3, Dacia Sandero, Hyundai i10, Kia Picanto and MG 3 we have now right here to settle the query of who makes the most effective low cost automotive on sale at this time.

The reality is, neither the producers nor the sellers are a lot taken with promoting or selling vehicles this low cost any extra, they usually’re rising much less so, whereas consumers’ curiosity, as they see it, has migrated elsewhere.

As you’re about to learn, although, bargain-basement motoring could be surprisingly enjoyable, nice and sensible, and remarkably handy in 2023. Liberating, then, in additional methods than one.

Meet the contenders: Dacia Sandero

Dacia Sandero and Kia Picanto following Hyundai i10

Even in isolation and even at this time, the Sandero appears like an terrible lot of automotive for the cash. That’s its shtick, after all. Really examine it, although, and drive it again to again with its price-matched rivals, and it appears much more good worth.

The MG 3 isn’t too far off it for cabin area however has a boot some 20% smaller, whereas the C3 undoubtedly provides much less practicality. The i10 and Picanto really feel a lot smaller – as a result of they’re – but price the identical. But the Sandero can deal with adults within the second row, taller people up entrance and folded buggies within the boot – and depart a little bit of dwelling area round all of them. Superminis by no means used to do this.

Tata Punch EV Spotted Again, Series Production Could Begin Soon

The check mule was a well-equipped variant having LED lighting and alloy wheels, making us consider its collection manufacturing is more likely to start quickly

2024 Tata Punch EV

  • Tata’s subsequent large EV launch would be the all-electric Punch.

  • To get new Nexon-like LED DRLs doubling up as flip indicators and a redesigned grille.

  • Cabin updates to incorporate a much bigger touchscreen and a 2-spoke steering wheel.

  • Expected to come back with a semi-digital driver’s show, auto AC, and as much as six airbags.

  • Tata might provide it with two battery packs; might need a claimed vary of as much as 500 km.

  • Launch anticipated within the first half of 2024 with costs more likely to begin from Rs 12 lakh (ex-showroom).

It has been months that spy pictures of the Tata Punch EV have been circulating on the web, with us having seen it in a lower-spec variant as effectively. We have now as soon as once more managed to click on some pictures of one other closely camouflaged check mule of the Punch EV, which a well-equipped variant suggesting its collection manufacturing might begin quickly.

Details Noticed

2024 Tata Punch EV

The newest check mule was all decked up and gave the impression to be a closer-to-production model of the all-electric Tata Punch. It was outfitted with new alloy wheels, a redesigned grille, and up to date cut up LED headlights with new Nexon-like LED DRLs which double up as flip indicators. All of those updates are more likely to be handed to the usual ICE-powered Punch as effectively. 

Another spotlight of the spy pictures was the affirmation of the larger touchscreen unit (most likely the ten.25-inch show from the brand new Nexon) and the availability of the brand new 2-spoke steering wheel that includes the illuminated ‘Tata’ brand.

What Else Is Expected To Be On Offer?

Tata Punch EV paddle shifter spied

Tata might additionally provide it with a semi-digital instrument cluster, paddle shifters (for battery regeneration), a 360-degree digicam, auto local weather management, as much as 6 airbags, digital stability management (ESC), a tyre stress monitoring system (TPMS), and a rearview digicam.

Also Check Out: Smartphone Giant Xiaomi Officially Reveals Its First EV! Meet The Xiaomi SU7

Battery Pack And Range

The Punch EV is more likely to be supplied with two battery pack choices, whereas its claimed vary is said to be of as much as 500 km. Although there’s no phrase on its electrical motor but, it’s anticipated to be extra environment friendly to enrich the improved vary.

When Will It Be Launched?

We count on the Tata Punch EV to go on sale within the first half of 2024. Tata might worth it from Rs 12 lakh (ex-showroom). Its direct competitor would be the Citroen eC3, whereas it is going to additionally function an alternative choice to the likes of the MG Comet EV and Tata Tiago EV.

Read More on : Punch AMT

RIDING THE KOVE RALLY: THE WRAP

For about two weeks, we’ve been using the wheels off a Kove Rally and we adore it. This is greater than a dual-sport bike forged within the picture of a rally bike–it’s a respectable machine that you possibly can take straight to an actual rally. Two of them completed Dakar in 2023 and Mason Klein will trip one subsequent month on the 2024 version of the occasion.

Carson Brown got here down from the Northwest to beat up our Kove Rally take a look at bike.

It’s respectable to ask what a rally bike is within the first place. The FIM has an extended record of very particular necessities for Dakar and different occasions, however the core will need to have a single-cylinder motor with a displacement restrict of 450cc. For sensible functions, it must be an actual grime bike that’s able to going very far and really quick. It appears odd to us that nobody else is providing a motorbike like this. KTM, Husqvarna and GasGas all make restricted runs of semi manufacturing unit bikes for assist riders. Honda’s rally bikes are full works bikes, and so are the Hero Dakar bikes.

The Kove Rally has a steered retail value of $8999. There is a model out there with a decrease seat peak. The Acerbis handguards and Double Take Mirrors aren’t inventory objects.

The Kove Rally is made in China, however clearly has a really robust western affect. The motor is a double overhead cam, four-valve 450 with a six-speed gearbox. The backside finish was from an earlier mannequin however the whole lot from the bottom gasket up was developed for this bike. The gas system is what makes it completely different from anything on the market. There are three tanks with a mixed capability of seven.9 gallons. It all feeds routinely to the left entrance tank, so there aren’t any fuel-management points. The bike has a small frame-mount fairing, a down-swept exhaust, a large carbon-fiber skid plate and instrumentation that features a small pill behind the windscreen. The bike has full lighting and tools for avenue use. Currently it meets Euro 5 emissions necessities and is present process the method for approval within the U.S. For now, it falls into that grey space the place it may be licensed in some states, however not the extra uptight ones (i.e. California). It even has anti-lock brakes (which may be disabled). The suspension comes from an organization referred to as Yu-An, the brakes are Taisko and the tires are CST. The parts don’t appear to be typical Chinese components–both knock-offs or outdated. All are properly completed, compact and completely fashionable.

The brakes are made by a Chinese firm referred to as Taisko. Antilock cane be disabled by a handlebar swap, however have to be chosen each time the bike is began.

Despite how properly completed the Kove is, we had been pretty cynical getting into. We anticipated it to be damaged inside a couple of days and even hours. Carson Brown got here down for our first few days of testing and he can often break a motorbike at will. He tried. Nothing broke. Beyond that, he actually loved it! The suspension, specifically, exceeded all expectations. Carson was hitting logs and leaping off rocks as if it had been a 125. Admittedly, most of that’s due to who he’s. The bike is slender and properly proportioned, however it isn’t gentle. On our scale, it’s 334 kilos with out gas. We don’t understand how heavy Ricky Brabec’s works Honda is, however we do know that in case you put all this rally stuff on a Honda CRF450RL dual-sport bike, you’d find yourself with the identical primary weight. Regardless of that we rode it in all places we’d take a daily dual-sport. In tight rocky canyons, it felt large, however not unmanageable. And on the different finish of the spectrum it was excellent. When the Kove is at pace on a hearth street or two-track, it’s completely secure, enjoyable and comfy.

Suspension was one of many bike’s robust factors. The parts are made by Yu-An.

The motor is first rate, however nothing to get enthusiastic about. Remember, this mannequin has full emission tools and a brilliant quiet exhaust. It feels pretty plugged up. It makes first rate energy within the center however doesn’t rev very far–KTM and Husky dual-sport bikes aren’t significantly better. The motor nonetheless has very clear EFI mapping with no lifeless spots and little or no popping. It has plenty of peculiar traits, resembling little or no engine braking. We realized to love it. We even took the bike round Glen Helen’s National monitor, the place it was fantastic–simply not quick. We perceive there’s a full-dirt mannequin referred to as the Rally Pro which does away with all of the restrictions and makes about 10 horsepower extra. We may need a type of to check down sooner or later. For now, we are going to preserve using the Kove for a take a look at within the March, 2024 print concern of Dirt Bike. As of proper now, we really feel it units a brand new high-mark for Chinese bikes.

The Kove motor is its personal design; not a knock-off or copy of anything. The air filter is mounted excessive like a Yamaha or early Husaberg.

See you subsequent week!

–Ron Lawson

Triumph’s Oset Bikes Has Two New E-Dirtbikes For Young Riders

Introducing our little ones to the world of two wheels is easily one of the most exciting parts of being a motorcycle enthusiast. These days, kids have it easy as multiple manufacturers engineer and develop motorcycles specifically to help kids learn the ropes much more effectively. The newest of which comes from Oset Bikes, a UK-based electric dirtbike specialist that was recently acquired by Triumph.

Oset Bikes has unveiled a duo of electric off-road motorcycles that are all about versatility. The TXP-20 and TXP-24, with TXP standing for Trials, Xplore, and Play, can be configured to be both trials bikes and traditional-style enduro or trail bikes. The way they do this is with a swappable seat. The Trials seat is low, giving riders ample leg room to shift their weight around. Meanwhile, the Xplore seat is taller, akin to that of a traditional dirtbike saddle, ideal for longer rides when exploring the trails.

When it comes to the performance of the new bikes, the 2024 TXP models are equipped with a newly developed electric brushless motor. According to Oset, the new motor delivers increased power and torque, with the TXP-20 producing 1,400 watts of power and the TXP-24 producing 1,600 watts. The bikes are powered by a lithium battery pack that provides up to four hours of runtime under normal conditions. Likewise, it takes just 90 minutes to charge them up to 90 percent – just enough time for a quick lunch break for the kiddos.

Being designed for kids, it goes without saying that the new Oset TXP range comes with security features such as parental controls when it comes to speed, power, and response. The bikes also get fully adjustable air suspension, allowing you to dial in precise suspension settings for your young riders. Oset says that the TXP-20 is meant for kids aged seven to 10 years, and has a weight limit of 132 pounds. Meanwhile, the TXP-24 is for pre-teens, and has a weight limit of 198.4 pounds.

When it comes to pricing and availability, the Oset TXP-20 carries an MSRP of $3,995 USD. The TXP-24, meanwhile, is slightly pricier at $4,495 USD. The new kid-focused electric dirtbikes are expected to make their way to global dealerships at the start of 2024.

Watch This Enduro Ace Make His Honda Africa Twin Dance Through A Work Site

On November 1, 2023, Hoonigan celebrated its 12-year anniversary. Ken Block, who inspired many people around the world, was remembered during this time. Among those inspired by Block is hard enduro rider Kirian Mirabet Vidiella, who has created another Gymkhana tribute on his Honda Africa Twin in Madrid.

The new tribute video, titled “Gymkhana 2: Desguaces La Torre,” follows the first tribute video Mirabet made after Block’s death. This time, he showcases his skills at the massive Desguaces la Torre facility in Madrid.

Desguaces la Torre is an authorized treatment center for cars, where discarded vehicles are handled in an environmentally friendly manner. The facility has been operating since 1982, dismantling vehicles and recycling usable parts while disposing of the rest responsibly.

The highlight of the video is watching Mirabet showcase his skills on the Honda Africa Twin, with the help of his Insta360 camera and a skilled drone pilot capturing every move. It’s the perfect Friday treat, especially for those working in offices. However, attempting these stunts is not recommended for safety reasons.

After impressing with his stunts at Desguaces la Torre, Mirabet finds the perfect getaway vehicle in the form of a panel van. Despite its size, the Honda Africa Twin fits inside the van, allowing him to leave the site incognito.

Whether you attempt daring stunts or simply enjoy a fun and rewarding weekend, we hope it’s as great as Mirabet’s performance.

Introducing the GasGas MC-E 2: A New Electric Dirtbike for Kids

If you want to get your young ones started on two wheels, there’s no better time than now. The Pierer Mobility Group, which includes KTM, Husqvarna, and GasGas, has released their 50cc and 65cc mini-crossers for kids. But that’s not all. GasGas has recently introduced the MC-E 2, a smaller electric off-roader designed for smaller kids.

The GasGas MC-E 2 is specifically designed for kids with heights ranging from 90 centimeters to 130 centimeters. It serves as a stepping stone for young riders transitioning from balance bikes to motorized two-wheelers. According to GasGas, the MC-E 2 is affordable to run, delivering over an hour of riding time on a single charge.

2024 GasGas MC-E 2

The MC-E 2 offers just enough power for young riders to grow into. It features three power modes that allow parents to control the power output as their child progresses. At its highest level, the motor can reach a top speed of 33 kilometers per hour (or 21 miles per hour). The motor is located in the rear hub, providing the bike with a rear-biased center of gravity and eliminating the need for a chain, which reduces maintenance.

In addition to adjustable performance, the MC-E 2 also has multiple adjustment points on the frame, ensuring that kids of different heights can confidently ride. The lightweight aluminum frame and reinforced fiberglass subframe work together to keep the weight manageable and handling precise. The bike is equipped with WP suspension, offering 90 millimeters of travel in the front and 70 millimeters in the rear.

Safety is of utmost importance when it comes to kids’ riding. GasGas understands this and has included a wrist lanyard that automatically turns off the motor when detached. The bike also has a rollover sensor that shuts off the motor if it detects that the bike has tipped over. Additionally, 140-millimeter hydraulic disc brakes provide confident stopping power.

The GasGas MC-E 2 is already listed on GasGas’ official website and should be available at select GasGas dealerships. For accurate pricing information, it is recommended to contact your nearest GasGas dealer or visit their official website.

Start ‘Em Young With KTM’s 2024 50 And 65 SX Mini-Crossers

If you’re looking to introduce your child to two-wheeler riding, off-road riding is a great way to start. Since it will be a few years before they can legally ride on the street, there are plenty of off-road two-wheelers designed specifically for kids. Leading the way in this category is KTM.

KTM is a well-known name in the off-road industry, with a strong presence in motocross and rally racing. The brand is also heavily involved in grassroots initiatives. The introduction of the 2024 KTM Mini-Crossers is a testament to KTM’s commitment to this segment. These small off-road bikes are based on the KTM SX range for adults and aim to develop young competitive athletes in the future.

Start ‘Em Young With KTM’s 2024 50 And 65 SX Mini-Crossers

The KTM 50 SX and KTM 65 SX are the two models of the 2024 KTM Mini-Crossers. These bikes are scaled-down versions of the full-size KTM SX motorcycles. They feature a new steel frame with a lightweight fiberglass-reinforced subframe and adjustable height to accommodate growing riders. The KTM 65 SX was developed with input from international test riders to ensure that young racers have the best equipment for future success.

Start ‘Em Young With KTM’s 2024 50 And 65 SX Mini-Crossers

The KTM 50 SX has an upgraded engine with increased displacement for more power. It is designed for young riders and can be adjusted as their skills improve. It also features a larger one-piece radiator and a digital ignition system for consistent performance. The KTM 65 SX also gets an upgraded engine, radiator, and airbox, along with the same digital ignition system as the 50 SX.

Similar to their larger counterparts, the KTM 50 and 65 SX models come with premium suspension hardware from WP. They are equipped with a 35-millimeter WP XACT AER fork in the front and a WP XACT monoshock at the rear, both offering complete adjustability. Both models are expected to be available at KTM dealerships starting in November 2023.

Skoda Slavia And Skoda Kushaq Style Variants Get The The 10-inch Touchscreen Infotainment Again


The Czech automaker has also replaced the alloy wheels on the Style variant of the Skoda Kushaq

  • The Skoda Slavia and Skoda Kushaq have now regained the 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which was temporarily unavailable due to a shortage of semiconductor chips. This infotainment system is available in the top-spec Style variants of both models. However, it’s worth noting that the larger touchscreen system was already being offered with the Monte Carlo edition of the Kushaq.

  • Both models in the Style variant now also receive electrically adjustable front seats and footwell illumination. Other common features on both the Slavia and Kushaq include an 8-inch digital driver’s display, a single-pane sunroof, and ventilated front seats. Additionally, the Ambition Plus variant of the Slavia features a built-in dashcam.

  • The Style variant of the Skoda Kushaq now comes with a set of silver alloy wheels, replacing the dual-tone 17-inch alloy wheels. The Monte Carlo edition of the Kushaq still features the 5-spoke dual-tone 17-inch wheels.

  • Both the Skoda Slavia and Kushaq are available with two engine options: a 1-litre turbo-petrol engine with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission, and a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with a 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT).

  • The prices for the Skoda Slavia and Kushaq start at Rs 10.89 lakh (ex-showroom pan India).

The Skoda Slavia and Skoda Kushaq have received an upgrade in their Style variants. They now come equipped with the 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which was temporarily unavailable due to a shortage of semiconductor chips. This feature is available in the top-spec Style variants of both models. It is important to note that the Skoda Kushaq Monte Carlo edition already had this larger touchscreen system.

In addition to the touchscreen infotainment system, both the Skoda Slavia and Kushaq Style variants now also come with electrically adjustable front seats and footwell illumination. Other features that are common to both models include an 8-inch digital driver’s display, a single-pane sunroof, and ventilated front seats. The Ambition Plus variant of the Slavia also includes a built-in dashcam.

The Style variant of the Skoda Kushaq has undergone a change in its alloy wheels. It now features a simpler-looking set of silver alloy wheels, replacing the previously available dual-tone 17-inch alloy wheels. However, the Monte Carlo edition of the Kushaq still retains the 5-spoke dual-tone 17-inch wheels. Both designs of the alloy wheels are referred to as VEGA by Skoda.

Both the Skoda Slavia and Kushaq offer two engine options. There’s a 1-litre turbo-petrol engine that comes with a choice of a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. There’s also a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT).

The starting prices for the Skoda Slavia and Kushaq are Rs 10.89 lakh (ex-showroom pan India).