Motor Cycle Monthly - December 2019 - Preview

GET UP TO SPEED

THE WORLD’S

BIGGEST BIKING MONTHLY!

December 2019

✪BIPLANE WINGS ✪208bhp ✪201kg

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✪SUPERCHARGER ✪197bhp ✪239kg

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ner THINGS INGS : Ka was aki’ sZ WILL NEVER H2 BE THE SAME AGAIN

The SUPERBLADE 15-YEAR-OLDS CAN RIDE has arrived MOPEDS AGAIN!

214.5bhp

MotoGP bodywork.

Built to win WSB.

PAGE 6

In Germany... but it’s a start!

PAGE 28

OH NO!

Inside Marquez’

26 G HIGHSIDE

PAGE 21

NEWS 3

!

G N A D T O H

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TT Zero is dropped

Isle of Man TT promoters have decided that the dwindling race will not be a part of the motorbike racing schedule for the next two years. The Dept for Enterprise confirmed that a moratorium will be held to see if there is a future for the all-electrically powered motorcycle class. Recent years have seen the amount of entries to the race in single figures.

✸ A stripped Panigale V4. 201kg. 1100cc. 208hp. ✸ It’s face is based on The Joker. ✸ Biplane double wings for increased aero.

It's been the worst kept secret in motorcycling and after more than a year of gossip, spy photos and rumours, the 2020 Ducati Streetfighter V4 has finally been unveiled during the Italian factory's global premier event.

According to Ducati CEO Claudio Domenicali, the bike has been built with what Ducati is calling the ‘Fight Formula’ – basically, it's a naked superbike with loads of tech to make it go fast on the road.

It's certainly an aggressive looking motorcycle coming with the frame, Desmocedici Stradale motor and seat unit from the V4. That in-your-

face feel is further enhanced by the minimalist full-LED headlight, which finds its styling inspiration from comic books. "We wanted the bike to look like The Joker. That face that is so recognisable from the comic books you too can see on the front of the Streetfighter V4," said Domenicali.

There are two versions of the bike, the V4 and the higher-specced V4 S. The engine – combined with a kerb weight of 201kg (on the ‘S’ version) – takes the power/weight ratio to 1.17, and if you want to get the power output up to a dizzying 220hp then you can have the full racing Ducati Performance exhaust by Akrapovič, which not only lofts the output significantly, but also reduces the weight by 6kg.

The Wings

Because the bike is a literal handful under power, there's not only a vast array of electronics on tap to keep the front wheel under control, but two sets of wings that jut out from the shoulder of the radiator cover.

These wings help to maintain the bike's stability at higher speeds, generating 28kg of downforce at 167mph. The electronics have been lifted directly from the Panigale V4 to help the big naked stay right-side-up, but those wings aren't just for help

Refined Gold Wing

at holding that pawing front wheel down, they also boost stability during braking at the turn-in point and throughout the corner (according to Ducati). The wings also help draw heat off the engine by increasing water and oil radiator throughflow speeds by 2% and 10% respectively.

Ergonomics

Compared to the Panigale V4, the riding position – with an aboveground height of 845 mm – gets a high, wide handlebar that, together with a 60mm-thick seat and nottucked-under footpegs, give what Ducati says is ‘Sports-style comfort during inner city rides and the control needed to tackle country roads or racetracks’.

What do you get on the ‘S’ version?

The S version of the Streetfighter V4 features Marchesini forged wheels and Öhlins electrically controlled suspension (43mm NIX30 forks and TTX36 monoshock) and steering damper. The latter use the second generation Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 system which, in addition to making full use of the IMU 6D, provides a more riderfriendly interface.

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THE WORLD’S

BIGGEST BIKING MONTHLY!

Editor Tony Carter Email: editorial@motorcyclemonthly.co.uk Editorial design Fran Lovely Publishing Director Dan Savage Publisher Tim Hartley Production Editor Mike Cowton

Picture desk Paul Fincham and Jonathan Schofield Group Advertising Manager Sue Keily Divisional Advertising Manager Zoe Thurling 01507 529412 Advertising Mirela Vulaj 01507 529409 Advertising deadline for January issue December 5, 2019 Distribution 01507 529529 Marketing Manager Charlotte Park Commercial Director Nigel Hole

The engine The new Streetfighter V4 is powered by a 1,103cc Desmosedici Stradale engine. The 90° V4 delivers 208hp (153kW) @ 12,750rpm. Maximum torque is 90lb-ft (123Nm) @ 11,500 rpm, practically unchanged from what you’d find in the Panigale V4.

Dedicated engine mapping lets riders safely make the most of the Streetfighter V4’s performance on the road.

The final gear ratio, shorter than that of the Panigale V4, delivers a wheel torque that’s +10%, which ensures an immediate throttle response.

Power and torque can be raised to 220hp and 95lb-ft (130Nm) by fitting the full racing Ducati Performance exhaust by Akrapovič.

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For 2020 the Gold Wing now gets revisions to its fuel injection and DCT updates to improve slowspeed manoeuvrability, and in the ‘Tour’ versions the bike gets revised suspension settings and larger passenger grab handles. Colour-wise, the bike also gets a new Matte Ballistic Black Metallic option and the DCT Gold Wing gets an additional Pearl Glare White version, too.

Motorcycle Live Ducati call Ducati UK is inviting all Ducati 916 owners to be involved in a dedicated 916 display at Motorcycle Live from November 16-24. Ducati is looking for 12 of the finest examples of the 916, including 996 and 998 models, to display on a dedicated stand to honour this historic and groundbreaking motorcycle. Those 916, 996 and 998 owners who would like their bike to be considered, should visit https://www.ducatiukevents.co.uk

MCM recommends bikesafe.co.uk

Independently proven pick up: 67,717 copies

4 NEWS

Motor Cycle Monthly Hello from the Editor of MCM

Tony Carter

Shiny and new

W

hen the glut of new models appear, ahead of the big unveils at the big shows, it’s time for a bit of wishlist shopping. If money was no object, what 2020 bike would you really go for?

That Streetfighter looks amazing.

So does the Z H2 from Kawasaki.

But what about the W800? Or the Superblade? Then there’s the Indian Charger – cool.

Consider the Harley-Davidson LiveWire, too. Now that’s a bike I loved riding on the world launch a couple of months ago. Then there’s the Triumph Street Triple RS. All of these motorcycles (and more) are fabulous in their own right; spectacular as a range of future metal that we’re going to have in dealerships about now, or very soon indeed.

Don’t forget to get along to the NEC in Birmingham for Motorcycle Live (November 16-24), where you’ll be able to get up close and personal with these bikes. Have a sit on them, poke and prod them and talk to the factory people who will be in attendence to answer any questions you may have.

It might be muggy and miserable outside weather-wise, but when you’re not making the most of that with a winter hack or doing a bit of enduro-muddy fun, the NEC is a fine place for a bit of future planning or just wishful thinking.

Either way, it’s spot on.

Have you seen the story on these pages about the loophole in the law about mobile phone use whilst behind the wheel being clamped down? I was shocked when I learned that drivers can currently dodge any form of penalty if they’re scrolling through the internet, looking for music, taking photos or even filming whilst driving. Basically, as long as they’re not making a phone call with a hand-held phone then they’re fine.

You’ve got to be kidding me. From the back of a motorcycle we can all see how generally poor the standard of driving is in the UK, so why on earth has this loophole been allowed to even exist?

This ridiculous state of affairs needs to be stopped now. As in today. Not ‘next spring’ as the current (at time of writing) Government and Grant Schapps are planning.

I wonder if anyone in the corridors of power will have anything to say to the families of people killed by some idiot filming or scrolling through the internet whilst they’re driving along in two tonnes of killer car?

After all, it’s not like they’re breaking the law by paying so much attention to their phone instead of what’s happening on the road in front of them, is it?

A pathetic bit of law nonsense by people who should damn well know better.

HOW MUCH AND WHEN IS IT AVAILABLE?

Streetfighter V4 Streetfighter V4 S Multistrada 1260 S Scrambler Panigale V4 (MY20) Panigale V4 S Panigale V2

Ducati Red Ducati Red Grand Tour Livery Dark Icon Ducati Red MY20 Ducati Red Ducati Red

£17,595 £19,795 £18,895 £7,595 £19,995 £24,795 £14,995

Mar 20 Mar 20 Nov 19 Jan 20 Jan 20 Jan 20 Jan 20

Streetfighter, Multistrada, and Panigale V2 and V4 include trackers (biketrac)

Ducati’s 2020 Panigaalee V2 takees oveer from the current 9599 Looking very similar to the company’s V4, the small Panigale apes its bigger brother from the new-look face to the tiny seat unit.

Ducati's CEO Claudio Domenicali said: “This is one of the most compact sportsbikes that we have in the Ducati family. This product is based on the most update Superquadro engine; the twocylinder engine is perfect for the road and fun on the track.”

The Panigale V2 makes 155bhp @ 10,750 and 77lb-ft of torque @ 9000rpm. It’s dripping in Ducati’s Safety tech, with cornering ABS and DTC for optimum grip at the rear wheel.

The Panigale V2 comes with DTC Evo 2, which features Ducati’s new predictive strategy (think of it as smarter traction control combined with better electronic

Here’s the 2020 Multistrada 1260 S Grand Tour

Capping off the Multistrada family in the Ducati lineage is the Multistrada 1260S Grand Tour, which the Italian company launched at its World Premiere event last month. The bike will cost €22,490 (£19,450) for the pretty full-on touring-ready version of the large capacity Strada.

Available at the end of this month, the bike costs €1,500 more than the S version of the Italian firm’s big upright tourer.

The Grand Tour gets new livery and new colours, and on the touring front the model gets extra fog lights as standard and the touring pack that includes the heated handgrips, centre stand and electric fuel cap, which is a keyless system, plus the TPMS tyre tyy pressure system.

braiins moniitoriing lean anglle and d suspension performance). It is claimed to be able to deliver better grip through limiting the bike’s output in a way that’s 25% better than on the current small Panigale – according to Ducati.

Domenicali added: “By getting the engine and the suspension working

better togeth her you get out off th he corner in a much better way, more predictable.

“The bike has been specially made for road use, but with the performance and the 176kg dry weight that makes it the perfect product for the young generation. This is the right product for them to have fun with on track, too.”

Ducati reveals Scrambler Icon Dark Ducati has unveiled the 800cc Ducati Scrambler Icon Dark as part of it’s 2020 model line-up.

Boss Claudio Domenicali said: “What we’ve done here is to strip away everything that wasn’t necessary to leave us with a simple, straightforward Black scheme.

“The Black model shares the same engine as with the others in the range and it gets the same safety features like cornering ABS.”

NEWS 5

The V4 superbike family gets more With wings from the V4R, the V4 gets the bodywork from the previously top-of-the-range bike. The bodywork is also wider and, according to Ducati, this not only makes the bike more efficient at cutting through the air, but ensures that the much-needed cooling arc passes over the engine accurately. And the new bodywork is now available all across the V4 family of sportsbikes from Ducati.

The downforce is the equivalent of 30kg at 167mph, which helps with stability and keeping the front wheel down. The basic spec of the V4 motor is unchanged for this year.

Claudio Domenicali said: “We have also replaced many things, and in terms of the frame it’s milled more to be lighter with torsional stiffness better by 30%. This lets you feel even more what the front wheel is doing.

“With regards to the changes, speed is not the objective here, but we wanted the bike to be easier to ride fast. We have re-engineered the bike so the centre of gravity is higher; we

have reduced the spring stiffness, which is a fundamental point. The old V4 required smooth surfaces, but now the bike is under control even if you get into a small bump. This means that the bike does move around a bit more.

“At the rear of the bike it’s higher, too. Looking at the engine, we looked at the throttle opening, ignition and all the requirements of the rider. If revs go up because you’re in the corner and the wheel is on a smaller side radius, you can’t increase the throttle so there are some areas in this 2019 bike that we changed so that this can be made easier to live with.

“We have reduced the torque for slow speeds. There’s new traction control and a new quickshifter, too.

“During testing, Michele Pirro at Vallelunga was just 3.3s slower on the road bike with road tyres than he was on his factory race bike with a race exhaust, track gearing and race tyres! That shows you just how much of the improvements can really be seen.”

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MOBILE PHONE USE WHILST DRIVING LEGAL LOOPHOLE TO BE CLOSED After one driver got off a charge made because he was FILMING an accident whilst driving past the scene and not making a PHONE CALL, legal chiefs are closing loopholes in mobile phone use.

The Government has announced that the loophole that allows drivers to escape prosecution for mobile phone use if they’re using their device to take photos, film, scroll through the internet or look for music whilst driving will be closed.

Amazingly, a driver can legally use their phone if it’s not deemed ‘interactive communication’. That was a loophole clearly allowed in law that driver Ramsey Barreto used when he successfully appealed a conviction for filming the scene of a crash whilst he drove past earlier this year. Barreto’s lawyers argued that the current rules for mobile phone use were not broken because Barreto wasn’t using his phone for ‘interactive

communication’.

Now Transport Secretary Grant Schapps has said that an urgent review will be carried out to tighten up the current ruling on hand-held mobile phone use by motorists.

The Department for Transport (DfT) said it will revise the legislation so that ANY driver caught using a hand-held phone behind the wheel can be prosecuted – including if they’re texting, taking photos, browsing the internet or scrolling through a playlist.

The new law is expected to be in place by next Spring. The suggestion for the law change comes as part of a recent report by the Commons’ Transport Select Committee, which called for a toughening up on mobile phone use whilst driving. The committee also recommended that ministers should look into a ban on hands-free use whilst driving – currently the DfT has no plans to introduce that aspect of phone use while behind the wheel.

6 NEWS The Aerodynamic cleverness

Here’s Honda’s 2020 Superblade* *Not the official name, but come on... it’s the most MotoGP Blade ever made.

And it’s designed to win in WSB. Honda is not being coy about why it's made this all-new Blade for 2020 – outwardly saying that this is, really, a track bike that's been built to shine at WSB-winning speeds.

Here, for example, is what Yuzuru Ishikawa, Large Project Leader for the new CBR1000RR-R Fireblade said about the bike: “Our intentions are crystal clear. The CBR1000RR-R’s battleground has moved to the race track, where its advanced performance can be most fully demonstrated.

"The engine has the same bore and stroke as the RC213V. We firmly believe riders

everywhere can experience a whole new level of performance with our new CBR1000RR-R – a machine in its element on the track.”

So there it is, nice and clear that any ideals of the Superblade being a bit of an all-rounder are firmly out of the park.

Up close, the snazzily named CBR1000RR-R (good, if you're a fan of capital Rs) really is a brand new motorcycle.

The inline four-cylinder engine draws heavily on the RC213V-S’s combustion efficiency and low-friction technologies – while also sharing its bore and stroke. On top of that, the motor

Honda’s development team was tasked to create a classleading drag coefficient (with a tucked-in rider under track conditions) and restrict lift under acceleration while improving braking stability.

The first part of the process was to lower the fuel tank cover by 45mm, decreasing the frontal area with the rider prone. At a 35° angle the screen channels airflow from the upper fairing over the rider and seat cowl, which itself presents the minimum possible drag resistance. The left and right upper fairing slits reduce yaw and roll resistance while turning.

To make steering easier a convex surface on each side of the front mudguard moves airflow away from the front wheel, smoothly directing it to the fairing sides. Cooling air for radiator and oil cooler has been optimised by aerodynamic management of both velocity and pressure of air flowing from the tyre.

also features titanium con-rods and forged aluminium pistons.

Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) has been optimised for the new Blade and the firm's adjustable Start Mode (aka Launch Control) added to Power, Engine Brake and Wheelie Control.

An aluminium diamond frame features a longer RC213V-S-style swingarm with six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) to take care of the motorcycle-position-information that feeds the myriad of onboard computer systems.

To help keep things stable, the new Blade

The lower fairing has also been extended close to the rear tyre, and shaped to channel air downward. This has two effects: in dry conditions, less air hits the tyre, lowering drag; in the wet, less water hits the tyre, improving grip.

To let air flow around the rider’s feet with minimum resistance, the sides of the rear hugger are carefully shaped while its upper side is cut out to vent air that channels up from underneath either side of the swingarm, decreasing rear lift.

The net result of all this work, with the CBR1000RR-R in stock race trim, is a best-inclass drag coefficient value of 0.270.

To generate downforce at track speeds – and maintain the smallest possible frontal area – the CBR1000RR-R gets winglets at the front of the main fairing that generates the same downforce as the 2018 RC213V MotoGP machine.

gets 3-level Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD) and Showa suspension front and rear (that's changed to Ohlins Smart Electronic Control suspensions front and rear on the SP version).

New Nissin brake calipers are mated to 330mm discs through 2-level ABS. The bodywork and riding position are tailored towards aerodynamic performance instead of rideability and comfort, and to that end, the fairing features MotoGP-derived winglets to generate downforce. A full-colour TFT screen and Honda Smart Key are also in the new bike's package.

NEWS 7 ENGINE: 1engine The new inline four-cylinder is a compact, short-

stroke layout – sharing the bore and stroke of the RC213V-S – and features a semi-cam gear train, finger-follower rocker arms, titanium con-rods, RC213V-S internal friction reduction technologies, piston jets with check ball system, and a built-in bottom bypass passage for the cylinder water jacket. The CBR1000RR-R engine makes 214 @ 14,500rpm and 83lb-ft @ 12,500rpm.

EXHAUST: 2 A ram-air duct in the front fairing feeds through the

3 8 4 5

headstock directly into the airbox. The 4-2-1 exhaust downpipes are ovalised and the end-can has been developed in conjunction with Akrapovic.

7

2

6 1

THROTTLE: 3 Throttle By Wire has been enhanced for feel and there

are three default riding modes feature options to change Power, Engine Braking, Wheelie Control and the optimised Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC). The electronics package also now includes adjustable Start Mode (launch control).

FRAME: 4 A new aluminium diamond frame uses the rear of the

engine as the upper shock mount; the swingarm is longer and based on the RC213V-S design.

FRONT END: 5 Showa’s 43mm Big Piston Fork (BPF) is matched to a

Showa Balance Free Rear Cushion Light (BFRC-L). The front discs are larger in diameter and worked by new Nissin fourpiston calipers, while the ABS is adjustable for track riding.

BRAIN: 6 A six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) provides

accurate 3D estimation of riding dynamics and provides input to manage all of the electronic systems. It also controls the new rod-type 3-level Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD).

FAIRING: 7 Honda’s 2018 RC213V MotoGP machine has leant some of its slippery aerodynamics to the CBR1000RR-R, including winglets to increase downforce

and improve braking stability. The riding position is also much more compact.

GEOMETRY: 8 Wheelbase is now 1,453mm, with rake and trail of

24°/101.2mm (from 1405mm, 23°/96mm) for stability. Wet weight is 202kg. The crankshaft is 33mm further from the front wheel spindle and raised 16mm. This evens out weight

distribution, while the higher c-of-g improves side-to-side agility and ultimate lean angle.

The swingarm – stamped out from 18 individual thicknesses of aluminium and as used by the RC213V-S – is 30.5mm longer, at 622.7mm, but weighs exactly the same as the previous design.

Its horizontal rigidity is reduced by 15%, with vertical rigidity maintained to generate grip and feel.

8 NEWS

Kawasaki launches the SUPERCHARGED Z H2

Launched at the Tokyyo Motor Show in October.

The naked gets a power boost to kick out 197bhp!

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UK School goes under

So here we go then, the first of the ‘hyper nakked ds’’ has appeared d at th he Tokyo Motor Show. Kawasaki has smashed it with the 197bhp (200hp), 239kg supercharged monster.

Showa BPF forks and quality rear suspension plus the comparatively low weight (1kg more than the Ninja H2 and 20kg less than the H2-SX) will keep it fiesty on the road, as will the 137Nm (101lb-ft) of torque at 8,500rpm – that’s the same torque as on the H2 SX delivered a full 1000rpm sooner.

Frame-wise, the Z H2’s unit is allnew and mated to a double-sided swingarm instead of the family-line single-sider version of its siblings.

The UK’s California Superbike School has gone into liquidation. The school, which had been based at Silverstone Circuit, had spent the past 22 years teaching advanced motorcycle handling techniques on track. Anyone with further questions about what’s now happening are directed to email: steve@superbikeschool.co.uk Cruiise controll, connectiiviity to th he Kawasaki Rideology app and three power modes (full, 75% or 50%) added to an up/down quickshifter and blipper all add to the package.

There’s no mention yet of price, but we’ve been told it’ll enter Europe at around €19,000 (£16,400-ish). Here’s the colours that the bike will be available in, here in Blighty: ● Metallic spark black/metallic graphite gray/mirror coated spark black ● Metallic matte carbon gray/metallic flat spark black ● Metallic diablo black/metallic flat spark black.

34bhp and 450Nm!

Alongside Emflux’s yet-to-be-released electric motorcycles, there’s another Indian-built bike to watch out for. The Ultraviolette F77. Set to be released on November 13, the Ultraviolette F77 is being tipped as the first naked electric motorcycle out of India. Powered by a 400cc equivalent motor, which kicks out 34bhp and maximum torque of 450Nm. That torque figure’s massive – 10 times higher than a normal 400cc machine.

The new W800 has appearred Kawasaki also unveiled a new W800 at the Tokyo Motor Show – creating a THREE model line-up for 2020 In addition to the firm’s W800 Street and W800 CAFE, Kawasaki has how shown its newest W800 – which takes direct inspiration from the Japanese factory’s original 1966 W1.

It’s powered by Kawasaki’s 47bhp, air-cooled 773cc bevel drive camshaft engine – but aside from that, the newest W800 gets a range of new and updated parts to help it stand out from the previous generation machines.

So for 2020, the W800 gets a new frame construction with larger

diameter tubes, new 41mm diameter front forks and wider wheel rims.

There are also new ABS disc brakes front and rear, plus a new assist and slipper clutch that eliminates rear wheel hop on aggressive down shifts.

Styling’s been updated too, with a raft of chrome complementing its new Metallic Dark Green colour scheme. More specifically, there are new chrome mudguards, a chrome handlebar and a ‘tuck and roll’ style seat – in addition to some retuned twin exhausts. But despite its retro

styl yling, it also comes with a digital ignition, fuel injection and an electric start.

At this stage, there’s been no official confirmation about pricing

and availability in the UK, but if you’re interested in getting your hands on one, it’s worth making a trip to Motorcycle Live to check it out in the flesh.

The ZX-25R baby Ninja motorcycle gets unveiled at Tokyo When our digital sibling MoreBikes.co.uk showed the first images of this bike from Indonesia more than two months ago, they also said that there were rumours about there being TWO versions of this bike – an A2 friendly, 45bhp motorcycle and an allscreaming, all-dancing 60bhp version.

And now we’ve had the official unveil of this 2020 model from Kawasaki at the Tokyo Show to give us a good idea of what a hot quarter-litre modern little Ninja looks like in the flesh.

So far, so exciting, but there’s a glitch – Kawasaki hasn’t released any spec on the quarter-litre funster yet, so we can’t confirm any of the rumours about there being a big-balls screaming version of the roadster.

What we do know is that the bike gets a lot of ZX-6R stuff, rather than borrow much from its 400cc Ninja sibling.

It’ll come with keyless start and it gets a trellis steel frame. The forks are separate function units like on the 600 and it gets different power modes, traction control and a quickshifter. Up front there’s a radiallymounted caliper, too.

It’s easy to say that this is just going to be an A2 bike, but there’s a real lot of kit that will no doubt up the price when we eventually get it. If the rumours are true – and it was to happen as a European-friendly motorcycle – would a 60bhp, screaming 249cc mini-superbike be enough to get your juices going?

Charging forward

Harley-Davidson has restarted production and deliveries of LiveWire, its first electric bike, after resolving an issue with the bike’s charging technology. The company has said that the first owners of the all-electric motorbike from the Milwaukee brand can resume charging their motorcycles from home after warning them to stop home-based charging until the issue was resolved.

Learners Commuters Buying On Two Wheels

Riding

For more information on getting on two wheels check out On2Wheels

9

10 NEWS

Yamaha’s FJR1300 gets clever for next year

Yamaha’s just updated its iconic FJR1300 sport tourer motorcycle, and there are TWO new bikes for 2020 – the FJR 1300AS and the FJR1300 AE Ultimate Edition.

Updated to meet Euro 5 regulations, the two new FJRs for 2020 come with black and gold paintwork, gold threespoke wheels and a range of top-quality touring kit.

Powered by a 1298cc inline four, it’s fitted with electronically adjustable suspension, USD front forks and switchable traction control.

Built for long-distance touring, the FJR1300 AS (which is the only bike with electronic clutchless gear shift) and AE Ultimate Edition are each

kitted out with an electronically adjustable high screen and wind deflectors – plus they also come with an adjustable seat, cowl and handlebars to help riders find the most comfortable position for covering some serious miles.

Other touring essentials on the top-of-the-range FJRs include a shaft drive, heated grips, cruise control, a 12V socket – and some hard side cases, too.

There’s been no official news on price just yet, but we won’t have to wait too much longer to find out, with the new FJR1300 AS Ultimate Edition and FJR1300 AE Ultimate Edition heading into dealers from December 2019.

New Tracer 700 from Yamaha announced

Alongside the new FRJ1300s, there’s another sport tourer joining Yamaha’s ranks: the Tracer 700. Featuring completely new bodywork and an aggressive new front end, the Tracer is powered by the first Euro 5 version of the Japanese factories widely acclaimed 689cc, 2-cylinder CP2 engine.

For 2020 the outstanding engine is updated with optimised fuel injection and ignition settings, revised air intake, optimised exhaust settings and a modified exhaust system to maintain power output while meeting emissions standards.

The new Tracer 700 is also equipped with uprated 41mm cartridge-type forks up front – which come with

preload and rebound damping adjustment. And at the rear there’s a preload and rebound-adjustable shock.

The bike’s touring capabilities have been improved too, with a new aerodynamic screen. Using just one hand, screen height can be adjusted by over 60mm to reduce wind buffeting, while some re-designed handguards offer further protection

against wind and weather. The new Tracer also features 34mm wider handlebars and a new seat design, to improve long-distance comfort.

Available in either Icon Grey, Sonic Grey, or Phantom Blue, there’s no news yet on pricing for the new Yamaha Tracer 700, but the new model is set to be available in dealers from March 2020.

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NEWS 11

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Honda’s CB4X

Honda’s Rome-based R&D centre developed a new concept motorcycle for the fifth year running at EICMA called the CB4X. An in-line four motor powers the bike and it gets a hunched forward fuel tank, fully adjustable screen integrated into the fairing and a diamond pattern headlight. It’s also kitted out with an aluminium subframe and a 17-inch front wheel.

BMW unveils the NEW F900R and F900XR for 2020 The wraps were taken off the German firm’s new F900R and the F900XR bikes at the EICMA show earlier this month and we now know the details of the mid-sized roadster that we’ve been telling you about since November 2018.

Powered by the same 2-cylinder in-line engine as the F850GS, the new F900R and F900XR manage to eek out more power from the tried and tested motor with it making 105hp – thanks in part to an increase in capacity up to 895cc from 853cc.

Like the GS models in the F Series, the new F900R and F900XR use a steel bridge frame that integrates the engine as a load-bearing element.

Suspension is taken care of by an upside-down telescopic fork up at the front, while at the rear there’s a double-sided swinging arm with central suspension strut.

The F900R and F900XR also set a new technological benchmark in the mid-range segment with their high-quality standard equipment (Connectivity, LED all round as standard) and their wide range

of optional extras – in some cases unique in this class (including Adaptive Cornering Light, Keyless Ride, Dynamic ESA, Riding Modes Pro, Shift Assistant Pro, Intelligent Emergency Call, ABS Pro, MSR, DTC, DBC, RDC).

The two bikes offer ‘Rain’ and ‘Road’ riding modes as standard, and the standard machines also come with ABS and ASC Automatic Stability Control (which can easily be turned off ). As always with BMW, there’s also a wide variety of aftermarket customisation available, and that means you can choose from a bank of additional driving modes. It’s also possible to fit BMW Motorrad’s Dynamic ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment) as an optional extra.

The new mid-capacity BMWs come with light, plastic-welded fuel tanks with a capacity of 15.5 litres (F900XR) and 13 litres (F900R). And they’re a world first in motorcycle construction.

The two machines also come with a 6.5-inch TFT screen with BMW Motorrad Connectivity as standard.

The new F900R is available in Blackstorm metallic, San Marino Blue metallic and Style Sport in Hockenheim Silver metallic/Racing Red, while the new F900XR is available in Light White, Galvanic Gold metallic (Exclusive) and in Racing Red (Sport).

Frankie’s Newark time

The new S1000XR is launched for 2020 With a newly developed engine, suspension and an unladen weight of 226kg – 10kg less than its predecessor – the S1000XR has been launched in Italy at EICMA. The new S1000XR has the following standard features on board: Dynamic ESA, riding modes Pro, ABS Pro and DTC, Hill Start Control Pro, a 6.5” TFT screen complete with connectivity, and full LED lighting.

The newly developed in-line 4-cylinder engine is based on the S1000RR engine and delivers an output of 165hp

(121kW) @ 11,000rpm. The maximum torque of 114Nm is available at 9,250rpm.

The new bike already features the latest generation of BMW Motorrad Dynamic ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment) as standard and new instrument cluster, which has also been completely re-developed. It comes in two different colour schemes: the basic finish in Ice Grey and the highly dynamic finish in Racing Red/White Aluminium, available at extra cost.

No price was announced as MCM went to press.

Pierfrancesco ‘Frankie’ Chili has been confirmed as the Guest of Honour at the Carole Nash Classic Bike Guide Winter Classic at Newark Showground, which takes places across January 11-12. The Italian had a successful racing career, winning the 125cc European Championship in 1985 before moving on to the GP250 and 500cc World Championships. In WSB he took 10 pole positions and 17 wins while competing against the likes of Carl Fogarty, Troy Corser, Colin Edwards and Noriyuki Haga.

Another R18

BMW revealed a new concept cruiser called the R18/2, but it’s not going into production just yet. Powered by BMW’s large 2-cylinder boxer engine with 1800cc, including modern air/oil cooling. In addition to its loop frame and tear-drop fuel tank, it also comes with cast iron wheels with 19” at the front and 16” at the rear. It’s also kitted out with high-performance Brembo brake calipers and a Hattech stainless steel tailpipe system.

12 NEWS AND WHAT’S ON

Furygan launches intelligent Fury Airbag system

Indian Motorcycle’s ALL-NEW Challenger for 2020 The factory unveils its new 1769cc bagger that gets Brembo brakes and Fox shocks Words: Ross Mowbray Indian’s describing its new Challenger as the best performing fully loaded bagger on the market. Speaking about the new 1769cc motorcycle, Vice President of Indian Motorcycle Reid Wilson said: “The Indian Challenger delivers a new level of performance for riders who understand that the seemingly small details make a huge difference. Our mind set was to leave no stone unturned and deliver a bagger that exceeds the standards in categories like power, handling, comfort and technology.”

Built around Indian’s all-new 1769cc PowerPlus liquid-cooled V-Twin engine, it kicks out 120bhp and 131lb-ft of torque. And with three distinct throttle maps (including Rain, Standard and Sport), you can fine tune the bike’s performance.

It’s a well kitted out motorcycle ready for some long-distance touring, with electronic cruise control, full LED lighting, a long-haul 672mm seat, ABS, a keyless ignition, and weatherproof saddlebags with over 68 litres of storage space.

It comes with inverted front suspension and a hydraulically adjustable FOX rear shock, which when combined with the bike’s lightweight cast aluminium frame, helps to deliver unrivalled handling and rock-solid stability (according to

Indian). Brakes are race-spec radially mounted Brembos, while its wheels are clad with Metzeler Cruisetec rubber.

There’s a range of thoroughly modern technology built in too, including Indian Motorcycle’s own Smart Lean Technology, which works alongside a Bosch IMU to add cornering pre-control to the dynamic traction control and ABS, as well as Drag Torque Control. It also comes kitted out with RideCommand, Indian’s massive, customisable touchscreen infotainment system.

Through the seven-inch Ride Command system riders can look

att weatther and d traffi ffic overllays, key ffi vehicle information, Bluetooth and USB mobile pairing.

Steve Menneto, President of Indian Motorcycle, said: “While we are grounded in our iconic history, we are focused and driven to break new ground and establish a higher standard for riders; and the Challenger is a testament to that.

The amount of technology and level of detail packed into this bike is incredible, and it’s something we’re extremely proud of.”

The Indian Challenger will cost £24,999.

21 LE Velo Lancs & S Lakes. Knott Working Men’s Club (fish & chips).

Tel 01772 782516.

24 Mud Pluggers Day. Ace Café, Ace Corner, N Circular Rd, Stonebridge, London NW10 7UD. london.acecafe.com 24 Huddersfield Autojumble. Old Market Building, Brook Street, Huddersfield HD1 1RG. www.phoenixfairs.jimdo. com Tel 01773 819154.

24 Malvern Drive-In Classic Car & Bike Autojumble. The Three Counties Showground, Malvern, Worcs WR13 6NW. www.classicshows.org Tel 01484 667776.

Email info@classicshows.org.

The Fury Airbag uses the innovative In&Motion unit as the vest’s ‘brain’, which measures the position of the user 1000 times per second and works with an algorithm that’s always improving with the more data it’s given. If the algorithm believes that you are in an accident, it deploys and the bag is inflated immediately in just 60 milliseconds.

The airbag stays inflated to prevent any resulting injury and to protect the user from any further injuries after the accident. The system – which takes three hours to fully charge – will offer up to 25 hours of active riding and 15 days on Auto standby mode, and once connected with WiFi or mobile data, will automatically look for updates.

There are different modes for road and track.

The inflation module itself is housed above the CE-approved back protector integrated into the back of the vest. Not only does this offer extra back protection, but it also ensures that the inflator itself doesn’t cause injury.

What you need to know

The vest can be reset at home by simply removing the discharged inflator unit housed in the back protector and replacing it with a new one. The free In&Motion App has a handy video guide for the first time. There is no need to send off the vest to be reset by Furygan.

The Fury Airbag vest with the In&Motion ‘brain’ has an RRP of £379.99, whilst the Airbag inflator has an RRP £89.99.

IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY 2019 NOVEMBER

French motorcycle clothing brand, Furygan, has partnered with In&Motion to introduce the Fury Airbag system, an airbag vest which zips inside Furygan jackets – available in UK dealers now.

Compatible with 2019 and 2020 Furygan jackets with the airbag connect logo, each jacket features an additional inner zip allowing users to zip the Fury Airbag into position. It can also be used with existing, compatible leather garments by removing the thermal lining and replacing with the vest. It takes less than 15 seconds to connect or disconnect.

Invisible from the outside, the design of the vest means it fits every body shape and is comfortable to wear. The 3D Mesh technology used to construct the vest creates a thermal bridge between the outside temperature and the body. The breathable material at the sides is used to offer stretch and comfort.

Designed to protect the neck, back, chest and abdomen areas, the Fury Airbag protects areas often left vulnerable in the event of a crash or impact.

24 30th Bottesford Toy Run. Meet at the Rutland Arms Pub, 2 High Street, Bottesford NG13 0AA. Pub will be open from 9am for refreshments.

Leave at 11am to travel to Meres Leisure Centre, Trent Road, Grantham NG31 7XQ, then continue to The Birchwood School, Grange Drive, Melton Mowbray LE13 1HA. Tel John Bartlett 01780 762531 or 07790 583082.

30 VMCC (Dorset section) Breakfast Meet. Henstridge Golf and Leisure, Marsh Lane, Henstridge, Somerset BA8 0TG. dorsetvmcc.co.uk/events Tel 01258 860864.

30 LE Velo Northampton Gathering. The Stag’s Head, Gt Doddington NN29 7TQ. Tel 01604 499858.

TO LIST YOUR EVENT EMAIL jclements@mortons.co.uk

DECEMBER 01 Bike Day & Ace Café Club Xmas Meet.

Ace Café, Ace Corner, N Circular Rd, Stonebridge, London NW10 7UD. london.acecafe.com 01 LE Velo Lancs & S Lakes. Glasson Dock, nr Lancaster. Tel 01772 782516.

01 The 10th Salvation Army Southwell Toy Run. Meet at Market Square, King Street, Southwell NG25 0EH. Meet from 10am for ride-off at 11am. Bring a toy, new ones only please, and ride to Salvation Army Centre, Mead Way, Balderton, Newark NG24 3GA. For info tel John F Judson 07785 185544.

07 Southern Classic Off Road & Racing Show & Motorcycle Jumble. Kempton

Park, Staines Road East, Sunbury-onThames, Middlesex TW16 5AQ. www.kemptonparkautojumble.co.uk Tel 01507 529529.

07 Mission Not So Impossible - Santa’s Toy Run. Sammy Miller Museum. www.sammymiller.co.uk 08 Normous Newark Autojumble.

Newark Showground, Newark, Notts NG24 2NY. www.newarkautojumble. co.uk Tel 01507 529529.

08 Bike Day. Ace Café, Ace Corner, N Circular Rd, Stonebridge, London NW10 7UD. london.acecafe.com 08 Paws ‘n’ Claws Pet Food Run. Ace Café, Ace Corner, N Circular Rd, Stonebridge, London NW10 7UD. london.acecafe.com 08 VMCC (Dorset Section) Mince Pie

Run. dorsetvmcc.co.uk/events Tel 01258 860864.

15 Bike Day. Ace Café, Ace Corner, N Circular Rd, Stonebridge, London NW10 7UD. london.acecafe.com 15 Xmas Toy Run. Ace Café, Ace Corner, N Circular Rd, Stonebridge, London NW10 7UD. london.acecafe.com 15 Xmas Carol Service. Ace Café, Ace Corner, N Circular Rd, Stonebridge, London NW10 7UD. london.acecafe.com 21 Scorton Auto & Bike Jumble. North Yorkshire Events Centre, Scorton DL10 6EJ. Tel Bert 07909 904705.

22 Bike Day. Ace Café, Ace Corner, N Circular Rd, Stonebridge, London NW10 7UD. london.acecafe.com

E&OE: All events are subject to change. Please check with the event organisers before booking accommodation or travelling.

13

14 FIRST RIDE

Indian’s FTR1200 Making American bikes

GREAT AGAIN Indian has created the FTR1200, an American motorcycle for the European market. Is that oxymoronic, just plain moronic or a very clever move indeed? MSL's Editor Mikko took to the roads to find out…

WORDS: Mikko Nieminen PHOTOGRAPHY: Indian Motorcycle

American bikes are big, brash and bathed in bling, right? Not this one. The new FTR1200 from Indian Motorcycle is sleek, sty tylish y and, well, rather European-looking. Naturally, that’s no coincidence.

The FTR is a considered move from Indian. It’s an essential part of the company’s desire to transform itself from an American motorcycle manufacturer to a global player. For that to happen, the existing line-up of big cruisers and baggers needs spicing up with a bike that appeals to a global market – and that’s where the FTR comes in.

This bike, however, is just the sharp end of the wedge. Indian has confirmed that the same new 1200cc V-twin engine designed for the FTR will power a whole platform of new models in years to come. If everything goes to plan, we could be looking at a new major global manufacturer here.

But global aspirations are only one side of the story behind the FTR. The

other is Indian’s FTR750 flat track racer that has dominated American race series for the last two years.

The FTR1200 is inspired by the racer and has similar looks, but shares virtually no components with its firebreathing sibling (race engines are all about performance, not longevity ty, y and most people like their street bikes to run longer than just the weekend).

To what degree you want to see the new bike as a homage to Indian’s rich history of racing or a calculated business decision to secure a foothold in new markets depends on your personal level of cynicism. No doubt both motives are at play here.

Two clear flavours

Like many top-level bikes, the FTR1200 comes in two different guises: the standard and the S. The engine, chassis and the majority tyy of all components are shared between the bikes, but there are a few key differences.

The 1203cc 60° V-twin engine is

brand new for this bike, and shares only a handful of parts with existing Indian powertrains. It boasts a 12.5:1 compression ratio, four valves per cylinder, high-flow cylinder heads, dual throttle bodies, magnesium engine covers and a low-inertia crankshaft. All that makes the engine powerful (121bhp), grunty tyy (87lb-ft) and quick revv vving. v Drawing immediate comparisons with the Ducati Monster, the tubular steel trellis main frame and aluminium subframe have been designed as separate parts, giving the bike distinct looks and leaving the door open for further developments that could give the package a whole new appearance.

Brembo brakes provide high-quality tyy stopping power front and rear, while the lightweight cast aluminium wheels (19in front/18in rear) and the Dunlop DT3-R tyres tyy (exclusively designed for the FTR) keep the bike’s looks true to the FTR750 racer.

The first obvious difference you

WHO IS THE FTR FOR?

“Some customers might come from other brands, others might just be buying a second bike because they like it. In this day and age, selling bikes is about more than just the bike itself, it’s about buying into something with roots, and Indian has the quality and authenticity to provide that.”

Grant Bester, VicePresident/General Manager EMEA, Indian Motorcycle

FIRST RIDE 15

TECH SPEC Indian FTR1200 (FTR1200 S)

notice is the instruments. The stock bike has an analogue speedo with an LCD screen for tacho, fuel gauge and gear indicator. Meanwhile, on the S you are welcomed on board by a full-colour, touch-sensitive TFT dash, which also grants access to the bike’s Rain, Road and Sport modes (the standard bike has the Road mapping).

Also selectable via the dash is leansensitive ABS and traction control, exclusive to the S model.

Suspension is fancier in the S variant, too. Although the hardware and factory settings are the same in both models, the S allows full adjustment of preload, compression and rebound damping at both ends.

The final differences are colour schemes and prices. The standard bike is available only in black (£11,899), while the S comes in red over steel grey or titanium metallic over thunder black pearl (both £12,999), or in race replica colour scheme (£14,099, which also includes an Akrapovic exhaust).

How does it ride?

During factory testing, the FTR spent a fair bit of time on winding Spanish roads while the Indian team faced the challenge of creating a bike that not only looks the part, but handles on European roads, too.

For the international launch ride,

however, Indian had planned an equally twisty route up and down the Californian canyons with a spot of the Pacific Coast Highway, just north of Santa Monica, on the West Coast of the USA. The first few metres on the FTR were somewhat tentative, and the riding position took a little while to get used to. Not because it’s not comfortable – it is. It was more to do with the feeling of sitting very close to the front, with your feet on fairly high pegs and your bum on a high seat (840mm). Once I realised I could shuffle an inch or two back in the seat, it all fell into place. After the first couple of hundred yards I was relaxed and happy.

What took no time at all to figure out was the sweet nature of the engine.

This is not a muscle bike with crazy power figures, but the big V-twin has ample torque across the range, making it super-easy to ride regardless of whether you can be bothered to select the right gear or not. If you run a gear or two too high, the bike will still accelerate happily right from the bottom of the range, and if you hang on to the gears and let the revs build, there’s no feeling of the engine running out of steam or getting breathless.

There’s very little vibration from the engine, and what you can feel is not

Price: £11,899 (£12,999) Engine: 1203cc 60° V-twin, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, graded buckets Power: 121bhp @ 8250rpm Torque: 87lb-ft @ 5900rpm Transmission: Six-speed chain final drive Frame: Tubular trellis steel mainframe, aluminium rear sub-frame Brakes: (F) Dual radially mounted 320mm discs, Brembo M4.32 Monobloc 4-piston calipers; (R) Single 265mm semi-floating disc, Brembo P34 2-piston caliper Suspension: (F) 43mm USD cartridge forks, 150mm of travel (fully adjustable on the S); (R) monotube, 150mm of travel (fully adjustable on the S) Tyres: Dunlop DT3-R Radial (F) 120/70R19 60V; (R) 150/80R18 70V Fuel tank: 13 litres Dry weight: 221kg (222kg) Wheelbase: 1524mm Seat height: 840mm Contact: www.indianmotorcycle.eu

16 FIRST RIDE SEAT

LICENCE PLATE HANGER

The licence plate and indicators are on a low-slung hanger, but if this doesn’t appeal you can buy an accessory tail tidy and place them under the seat.

SOUND

The rider’s seat is big and plush, although fairly high at 840mm. It contributes to the relaxed and engaging riding position. There’s a small pillion perch too, but this is not a bike for two-up touring.

The 13-litre tank is partsituated under the seat, bringing the centre of gravity down and enabling the air filter to be positioned just above the dual throttle bodies. The visible tank has replaceable covers for easy customisation.

GADGETS

The FTR1200 has cruise control as standard as well as a USB port, but the S-model ups the game with ride modes, lean angle sensitive ABS and traction control, and Bluetooth connectivity.

BRAKES

Brembo brakes are excellent, and shave off the speed with little effort.

The front brake lever is adjustable so you can get it just right for your grip.

If you like the sound of a big V-twin, you’ll love the FTR’s deep and distinctive rumble.

The Akrapovic exhaust on the race-coloured bike further enhances the enjoyment. by any means unpleasant. The fact that Indian hasn’t bothered putting rubber pads on the footpegs shows that they are happy with how low they have kept the vibes.

Entering the roads snaking up and down the canyons, it was time to judge whether the Spanish testing regime had done the trick and made this a bike for European tastes and requirements. With a wheelbase of 1524mm, rake of 26.3° and trail of 130mm, the geometry of the bike is a bit more relaxed than its European counterparts (yes, I’m thinking about the Monster 1200 in particular, which has 1485mm wheelbase, 23.3° rake and 86.5mm trail).

In order to keep the looks as close as possible to the FTR750 racer, the FTR also runs on 19in front and 18in rear

TANK

ENGINE

The 1203cc 60° V-twin engine is brand new, and shares only a few transmission components with existing motors. It delivers a claimed power of 121bhp and 87lb-ft of torque.

wheel rather than a more common 17/17 set up.

In practice all this means that the bike needs a little bit more of a nudge to drop into corners, but once it’s there it keeps the line perfectly with a very solid and planted feel through the bend. On straights you can enjoy a bit more stability than more aggressively shaped bikes, and looking over your shoulder doesn’t instantly cause a wobble.

Suspension is on the firm side, but not harsh. And in the case of the S, this could be easily altered. I would probably leave it as it is, given that the only time when it was an issue was when riding over rough surfaces with the Sport mode selected. This made it difficult to keep the right wrist gentle enough so the sensitive

throttle didn’t cause the bike to buck and bolt. Switching to Road mode was an instant cure for this problem, with a slightly more mellow throttle map being more forgiving to micromovements of the right hand while still providing full power.

One bit of kit that I think the bike could do with is a quickshifter/autoblipper. In fairness the test bikes we rode had only done a few miles before our ride, but the gearbox was fairly stiff. On our winding route where you work the box almost constantly a slick quickshifter would have made life much easier.

The intuitive TFT dash on the S was a joy to use. You could either make your selections using the switches or poke at the glovefriendly touch screen. It only takes a

WHEELS & TYRES

The FTR rolls on 19in front and 18in rear wheels. The original equipment tyres are Dunlop DT3-R Radial with 120/70R19 60V at the front and 150/80R18 70V at the rear.